Jose Huizar's Blog

Delevan Drive Elementary Awarded Prestigious Blue Ribbon School Honor

2010-04-16T20:34:00.000-07:00

I was fortunate enough to join with students, parents, teachers and administrators at Delevan Drive Elementary School in Glassell Park this morning for a ceremony recognizing the school for winning a National Blue Ribbon School Award. The award is given by the U.S. Department of Education for superior academic achievement and in 2009, 264 schools nationwide were named. Locally, Delevan is one of only six LAUSD schools to receive the prestigious award and it is a major achievement. As a former L.A. Unified School Board President, I know firsthand what an amazing academic feat this is and I could not be prouder. Congratulations to Principal Patrice Velasquez, her staff, teachers, parents and especially the students of Delevan Drive Elementary School. You are a model for students and schools throughout the entire City. Way to go!

Blog has moved!

2010-02-22T11:57:00.000-08:00

Hello! This blog has moved!
Please visit my new blog at:
http://josehuizarblog.blogspot.com/

Thank you,
Jose

Update on City Food Policy Motion

2010-02-21T15:44:00.000-08:00

The LA Times recently did a story on evolving public food policy including my motion to donate surplus food from city departments to food banks and organizations. During these tough economic times, people all over Los Angeles are tightening their belts and making sacrifices. As the second largest city in the nation, we should lead by example and help others as often as possible. No food should go to waste.

Food politics in L.A.: Hungry for change

Politicians are taking action to fight hunger and obesity in Los Angeles County.

By Mary MacVean
February 18, 2010

The business of government often has been conducted over a meal, but these days it's food itself that's on the public agenda: how to get more and better food to poor people, how to improve what children eat at school, how to encourage access to farmers' products and community gardens, how to combat obesity, and more.

"There has been a real reawakening about food in Los Angeles," says Eric Garcetti, L.A. City Council president, whose district includes the Hollywood Farmers Market. That's personal as well as political: As a child, Garcetti grew carrots in his family's community garden plot along the Ventura Freeway; these days, he and his wife grow most of their vegetables in their yard.

In a region of great abundance, demand is dramatically up at food pantries, and yet nearly two-thirds of the adults in L.A. County are overweight or obese -- a paradox that experts suggest is the result of such behaviors as eating too much food that's high in calories but low in nutritional value.

"I think we are just finally realizing that obesity and hunger are connected," says Andrea Giancoli, nutrition policy consultant for Los Angeles Unified School District. "Over the last decade, we're starting to gain more information about what is really happening out there in the community."

People are connecting a range of concerns about food -- safety, hunger, health and the environment, says Frank Tamborello of Hunger Action Los Angeles. And local politicians are taking notice too.

"There's a lot of attention" to food by city officials, says L.A. City Councilman Jose Huizar. "But we need to do a better job at having a comprehensive approach to all of these issues."

Among the initiatives:

* The L.A. City Council has adopted a measure to make sure that leftover food from city facilities, including the Los Angeles Convention Center (which already donates some food), gets to food banks, "whether it's 20 sandwiches at a local park or on a larger scale," says Huizar, sponsor of the measure. The council is awaiting a report on how such a plan would work.

* L.A. County supervisors have taken steps aimed at getting residents who are eligible for food stamps signed up for them. It's estimated that only half of the county's eligible residents get food stamps, meaning that millions of dollars in federal benefits are going to waste.

* The City Council's moratorium on new fast-food restaurants in some parts of the city (an effort that some have questioned), intended to fight obesity and to encourage independent sit-down restaurants, runs through March. And starting next year, thousands of restaurants in California will be required to post calorie counts.

* The mayor has announced a food policy task force, which is cataloging public and private efforts in food production, consumption and distribution and considering whether the city needs a permanent food policy council. He chose to announce it at a City Hall celebration of the 30th anniversary of farmers markets in the county.

* The L.A. City Council is looking for ways to to help defray some of the costs for farmers market operators who have seen their reimbursement charges increase significantly for street closures, signs and other city expenses.

* Hundreds of vending machines in county facilities are to carry healthful food and drinks as their contracts expire -- baked chips, low-fat cookies and crackers -- under a motion adopted last year.

But the supervisors stopped short of deciding to develop a plan to prohibit sugar-sweetened beverages from all county facilities, including the Hollywood Bowl. (The L.A. Unified School District board was ahead of the curve, banning soda sales in 2004 and adopting a plan to improve cafeteria food, though some of its goals, including a salad bar in every school, have yet to be realized.)

* The state has limited the use of trans fats in restaurants, and there has been talk about whether to propose a tax on sodas. At a hearing in City Hall last year, some state legislators heard from advocates of such a tax and also from opponents, who argued for consumer choice and for encouraging people to get more exercise to combat obesity.

The rates and costs of obesity have made the nation more food-centered as well. The Obamas planted a garden on the White House lawn, and the first lady last week announced a campaign to take on childhood obesity. State and local governments around the country have taken up food-related legislation.

"Things have reached a tipping point," says Zev Yaroslavsky, a county supervisor who cites a 41% increase in demand at food pantries since the end of 2008.

He was among the public officials who have asked for a better coordination of public agencies' efforts to fight hunger, based in part on two dozen recommendations issued by the Jewish Federation late last year, including getting people the services that are already available.

Matthew Sharp, a senior advocate with California Food Policy Advocates, says nearly 1 million county residents don't get the food stamps they are eligible to receive.

"It is absolutely criminal that we don't get these folks who are eligible what they are eligible for," Yaroslavsky says.

One way to overcome the language and cultural barriers to seeking food stamps, he says, is to send county workers out into the community, to food pantries and other places hungry people are likely to be. To that end, the county is working to get laptops, so workers can sign up people for food stamps wherever they are.

Some of what's required is better coordination, Yaroslavsky says. And the supervisors have asked county officials to look at how departments and nonprofit and faith-based agencies can more effectively work together.

Solutions to other problems have for years remained elusive. The scarcity of supermarkets in neighborhoods that are being called "food deserts" continues to trouble many people, within and outside of government. A report is due soon to the City Council assessing what it can do, through land use powers, to encourage supermarket construction. Council member Jan Perry's office supported Fresh & Easy's efforts; a new store opens next week in South L.A.

Availability of fresh, nutritious food is a long-standing issue. After the 1992 riots, researchers found that the availability of fresh, nutritious food was a top concern of people living in South Los Angeles, says Robert Gottlieb, director of the Urban and Environmental Policy Institute at Occidental College and the author of a book coming out later this year on food and justice.

A few years later a food policy body was formed but dissolved. Now the idea is back.

"There has been a deepening and maturing and expansion of the food movement in Los Angeles," Gottlieb says.

People are coming to "realize how unhealthy a lot of our food is," Garcetti says, and they're doing something about it in ways that also provide urban meeting spots -- by working in community gardens and shopping at farmers markets.

At the same time, he says, there has been "a recognition by government that it's not going to happen on its own," that through permits and regulations for such disparate things as restaurant grease traps and new grocery stores, the "city has a huge impact on food."

3rd Annual Senior Snowball

2010-02-20T15:30:00.000-08:00

Last week we held our 3rd Annual Senior Snowball, an event I initiated to honor the seniors of CD14 who do so much to improve our communities and who so willingly volunteer their time at several events throughout the year.

When people ask me why I support our seniors, I think of my parents and grandparents, I think of “the Greatest Generation” – who lived through the horrors and sacrifices of WWII with little complaint. This year, thanks to a private donation to the event, we were able to raffle off three 27 inch TV’s and three karaoke machines! Thank you to the Los Angeles Christian Presbyterian Church in El Sereno for hosting us, everyone who participated, and to the amazing Chico Band and Belinda Linda for performing and getting everyone on the dance floor! If you have a senior in your family that would like to get involved, below is a list of groups in my district. Enjoy the slideshow!
For a complete list of Senior Centers in Los Angeles: Click HERE!

• Amistad y Alegria
• Boyle Heights East L.A. Seniors
• Boyle Heights Evergreen Seniors
• Boyle Heights Golden Years Seniors
• Club Azteca
• Club Bueno Amigos
• Costello Seniors
• Eagle Vista Seniors
• El Sereno Senior Club
• Glassell Park Senior Citizen Club
• New Friends Club
• Rose Hills Seniors
• Ramona Gardens Seniors
• Resurrection Parish Seniors
• Nuevo Amancer
• Art Snyder Villa
• Los Abuelitos de Boyle Heights
• St. Marys Church Seniors
• Boyle Heights Estudiantes

Discussing Budget on NBC's News Conference

2010-02-16T14:09:00.000-08:00

Councilmember Alarcon and I discussed budget cuts this past Sunday on NBC's News Conference morning show with Conan Nolan.

View more news videos at: http://www.nbclosangeles.com/video.

L.A. can't go it alone on pot

2010-02-01T21:08:00.000-08:00

L.A.'s new ordinance on pot dispensaries attempts to answer the needs of the ailing while ensuring public safety and abiding by state and federal law.

LATIMES Opinion
By José Huizar
February 2, 2010

The Los Angeles City Council last week finally adopted a medical marijuana ordinance. Though not perfect, it balances the needs of local communities with those of patients who truly need access to medical marijuana. And it will rein in an out-of-control situation in which a federally banned substance has been sold for the last four years as hundreds of dispensaries proliferated in the city of Los Angeles, with no local regulations and ambiguous state laws to guide us.

To make the new ordinance work as effectively as possible, legislators need to clarify the state's medical marijuana laws -- Proposition 215 and its accompanying SB 420. Both are silent or vague on critical issues for the practical implementation at the local level.

As cities throughout California draft ordinances, they are grappling with issues that they have no power over and that should be handled at the state level. Moreover, they are trying to pinpoint evolving and changing court rulings interpreting state law.

In Los Angeles, one of the most difficult issues was what constitutes a "sale." My colleagues on the City Council and I addressed this by stipulating that although no collective shall operate for profit, "cash and in-kind contributions, reimbursements and reasonable compensation" are allowed as long as they comply with current state law. However, we don't know how this provision will be enforced because we are relying on state law that is unclear and in litigation.

It is also unclear whether the over-the-counter dispensary model was what voters intended when they approved Proposition 215. The law might have intended a much more limited distribution of marijuana, such as having either patients or their caregivers grow their own product or having collectives grow a small amount and reimburse members for their labor.

Without clarity from the state, the council also had to punt on the issues of cultivation and transportation of marijuana by saying that the ordinance would abide by state law.

Cultivation is important because the ordinance as written does not address where the collectives will obtain their marijuana. Will it be grown locally, imported from Northern California or bought on the black market? And are people who transport the marijuana to and from collectives immune from prosecution?

Another issue that is not being addressed locally but perhaps is the biggest impediment to properly regulating dispensaries relates to the wide discretion and relative immunity that physicians have in recommending medical marijuana to patients. When most of us have a medical issue, we don't look through the pages of alternative weeklies to find a physician. We go to the doctor who knows the most about our medical history -- our primary-care physician.

Yet under state law there is no requirement to curb abuse by having people see their primary-care physician first, or, as Oregon does, to require that a patient get a note from an "attending physician" with whom he or she has an established patient/physician relationship.

It's interesting to note that Oregon, like several other states, only allows medical marijuana for a narrow list of conditions. In contrast, in California, marijuana can be recommended for anything from cancer to writer's cramp. So, although California voters have not (yet) directed the state to legalize marijuana for nonmedical use, the state medical marijuana law has created de facto legalization because practically anyone can become a qualified patient.

Given these ambiguities, the city has provided an ordinance within existing state law that does its best to create access for medical marijuana patients while protecting local communities from potential negative consequences.

The council voted to support a requirement that dispensaries be at least 1,000 feet from sensitive-use areas where children and families gather, such as schools, playgrounds and places of worship -- and from other dispensaries.

We also capped the number of collectives at 70 (instead of the estimated 700-plus that exist) and required notification to neighborhood councils before new dispensaries open in their areas. To control profiteering, we also required annual audits and outlawed common ownership of multiple collectives.

I, like a majority of California voters, voted in favor of Proposition 215 because I believe that patients dealing with cancer, AIDS, chronic pain and other serious ailments should have access to medical marijuana.

However, I remain concerned about profiteers looking to make a quick buck, recreational users looking to use an ambiguous state law to their advantage and less-than-scrupulous doctors willing to play along by writing quick and unverified recommendations. Though seemingly innocuous to some, these unchecked activities can lead to real problems in local communities should the state refuse to further regulate medical marijuana. I encourage state legislators to immediately amend SB 420 to deal with its ambiguities.

In the future, if the voters legalize marijuana for recreational use, I would hope that the state provides clear and practical rules for local implementation, unlike what has occurred with medical marijuana.

José Huizar represents the 14th District on the Los Angeles City Council.

$50,000 Reward Offered in Killing of 15-year-old

2010-01-08T18:25:00.000-08:00

I joined LAPD Capt. Anita Ortega and Hollenbeck detectives today to announce a $50,000 reward for the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the Dec. 7, 2009 shooting death of a 15-year-old boy in Boyle Heights. According to detectives, the shooting took place at about 7:30 a.m. as the Mendez Learning Center student was standing on the north side of East Cesar Chavez Avenue near St. Louis Street when he was approached by a suspect who fired multiple shots at him with a semiautomatic handgun. The person suspected in the shooting was caught on video fleeing the scene with a gun in his or her hand wearing a gray hooded sweatshirt and blue jeans. The reward motion was introduced in Council today, and our hope is the public responds to this plea so we can get this extremely dangerous individual off our streets.

Calls may be directed to LAPD Hollenbeck Homicide Detectives Marin or Negrete at (323) 342-8961. Afterhours and on weekends: 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (527-3247). Anyone who prefers to remain anonymous may call “Crimestoppers” at 800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477). Tipsters can also contact Crimestoppers by texting 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone. All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.

Census Count Begins in March

2010-01-04T17:49:00.000-08:00

I joined the Mayor and Census LA Director Jamey Christy for a press conference today hoping to get the word out that the 2010 Census is coming soon and all Angelenos need to participate. This year’s Census will have implications that will be felt for an entire decade. My office is working on creating a CD 14 Counting Committee to make sure we do all we can to get people to fill out the Census' easy 10-question survey.

Tournament of Roses and its Gold Line Connection

2009-12-29T12:36:00.000-08:00

I joined the Tournament of Roses Queen and her court yesterday morning at Mariachi Plaza to promote the Metro Gold Line East Side Extension as the best way for people from downtown and the Eastside to get to all the great events surrounding the Tournament of Roses Parade, Rose Bowl game and the National Title game on Jan. 7. The great thing is during these tough economic times, with the Rose Parade being a free event and the Showcase of Floats costing very little (and free to kids 5 and under), this is a unique opportunity for families to enjoy top-notch, one-of-a-kind entertainment and not have to spend a fortune. So gather the kids, jump on the Gold Line and have some fun this New Year.

Letter to The Autry, re: Southwest Museum

2009-12-21T11:00:00.000-08:00

While I was disappointed to hear about the Autry’s plan to close and limit space at the Southwest Museum, I am nonetheless determined to meet and discuss with the Autry’s leadership a number of viable alternatives(see below letter) to keep the Southwest Museum – the City’s first museum – open as a fully credited museum. The Autry has nothing to lose and everything to gain. I am encouraged that John Gray has committed to meet with me in the New Year and I am very much looking forward to that discussion, which I believe can benefit both the Southwest Museum and the Autry National Center in Griffith Park. The Mt. Washington and the Griffith Park communities, as well as all Angelenos, deserve our very best on this issue. I am convinced that there are a number of “win-win” scenarios that can benefit both the Southwest Museum and the Autry National Center.

Chair, Board of Directors
& Board Members
Autry National Center of the American West
4700 Western Heritage Way
Los Angeles, CA 90027

December 16, 2009

Dear Chairman and Board Members:

I write to update you on some important work that my office and the City of Los Angeles have undertaken to explore funding options for the rehabilitation and re-opening of the Southwest Museum (SWM), as well as the expansion of the Autry Center at the Griffith Park site.

On June 30, 2009, the Board of Referred Powers voted unanimously to direct the Autry to negotiate with me, on behalf of the City, a legally binding agreement to assist with the re-opening of the SWM. I took this directive very seriously and undertook a meeting with John Gray, the Autry’s Executive Director. I also attended the Autry’s Board of Directors meeting on July 15, 2009. However, I was disappointed when the Autry unilaterally broke off negotiations without informing me and announced the calling off of those negotiations through the press.

Since that time, we have been hard at work to come up with a solution to make the SWM a viable destination. In 2003, the Autry commissioned Brenda Levin to study the SWM to determine alternatives for its revitalization. The Levin study articulated two options valued at around $16 million and $23 million respectively, which demonstrate that the SWM can be economically viable and sustainable. However, instead of using the SWM collection to fundraise and implement either of the Levin options, the Autry has used the SWM collection to launch an ambitious $175 million capital campaign to expand its other facility at Griffith Park. In this economic climate, I understand the difficulties that the Board might have in reaching such an ambitious fundraising goal.

Over the past month, I have reached out to Mr. Gray in an effort to discuss City and Federal financial assistance options that may be beneficial to the Autry and its interests regarding the SWM collection, the SWM building, and the Griffith Park site.

These options include: 1) low-interest loans via the Federal stimulus funding package; 2) a park assessment district; and 3) various other City grant options that should be reviewed further. I would be happy to discuss the staff’s report with you at anytime to find a resolution for the SWM and Griffith Park sites. I understand that the Board of Directors will meet in January 2010 to discuss revised plans for the Autry’s expansion at Griffith Park site and the potential closing of the SWM. I am supportive of your goal to expand the Autry Center site at Griffith Park, and I want to work collaboratively with you on finding a win-win strategy for the re-opening of the SWM. I hope that we can meet prior to your January 2010 Board of Directors meeting.

Sincerely,

José Huizar
Councilmember, 14th District

CC: John Gray, Executive Director

4th Annual Winter Wonderland in El Sereno

2009-12-18T15:42:00.000-08:00

Join me tomorrow for the 4th Annual Winter Wonderland in El Sereno!

KTLA Skate Plaza w/ Rob Dyrdek Segment!

2009-12-17T12:27:00.000-08:00

Check out this video by KTLA from this morning with the very cool Rob Dyrdek! Today is the grand opening of this new Skate Plaza located at Hollenbeck Park. 3:30pm
Hope to see you there!

Skate Plaza Grand Opening Thursday Dec. 17th! 3:30pm

2009-12-15T13:01:00.000-08:00

Join Councilmember José Huizar and MTV Skateboarding Star Rob Dyrdek Thursday

at Skate Plaza Grand Opening!

Friends, please join me (and bring the skateboarding enthusiasts in your families) at the Grand Opening of our new Skate Plaza at Hollenbeck Park in Boyle Heights.

This new “Safe Spot Skate Spot” skating area is a 14,000 square-foot, tri-level street skating plaza, which is already considered one of the premier Skate Plazas in the entire nation and offers a picturesque view high on a hillside at the southeast corner of the park overlooking the lake.

This street-skating plaza is a $350, 000 collaboration between my office and Rob Dyrdek, star of “Rob Dyrdek’s Fantasy Factory.”

Rob and my office discussed the Safe Spot Skate Spot a few months ago and we moved forward very quickly. We know all too well that our young people need more recreation space, particularly in a dense neighborhood like Boyle Heights.

Celebrate Park's New Outdoor Fitness Zone and Workout Equipment

We’ll also be celebrating our new outdoor Fitness Zone and workout equipment I had installed at the park recently, which brings total renovations to Hollenbeck Park to nearly $1 million.

Other park improvements include:

• A completely renovated floating bridge, which sits on the lake and had been shut down for five years.

• Repair to signature fountains in the lake.

• New landscaping and tree plantings.

• Repairs to the jogging/walking pathway around the lake.

• Remodeling Playground area to make it ADA accessible.

All these improvements are part of $1.4 billion in mostly public investment in Boyle Heights, including the Metro Gold Line Eastside Extension; four new schools including the Mendez Learning Center and Oscar De La Hoya Ánimo Charter High School and the New Hollenbeck Community Police Station, to name just a few.

So, please join us!

What: Grand Opening of Safe Spot Skate Spot at Hollenbeck Park

Where: 415 Saint Louis Street (near Saint Louis and Sixth Street)

Los Angeles, 90033

When: 3:30 p.m., Thursday, December 17, 2009.

For more information, please call my Boyle Heights District Office at (323) 526-3059.

Streetcar Project Receives Congressional Appropriation

2009-12-14T12:23:00.000-08:00

Great news for our effort to bring the Streetcar back to Downtown Los Angeles. On Thursday, the House of Representatives voted to support $250,000 in funding specifically for the Streetcar. The 2010’s Omnibus Appropriations Measure is expected to be adopted by the Senate before President Obama signs it into law. Special thanks to Congressmember Lucille Roybal-Allard for her work on this effort and for believing in my call to get a Streetcar running downtown by 2014.

Toy Giveaway Today, Rain or Shine (Just like Santa!)

2009-12-12T15:04:00.000-08:00

Just want to remind everyone that we will be having our 4th Annual Holiday Toy Giveaway at Evergreen Park in Boyle Heights today from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. rain or shine. Bring the kids out to get a gift, visit with Santa and enjoy carolers while drinking cinnamon tea and eating pan dulce (Mexican Sweet Bread). A big thanks to the Boyle Heights Neighborhood Council and our other sponsors for help making this happen. Hope to see you there!

Honoring our Parent Heroes

2009-12-11T09:04:00.000-08:00

On Thursday, I had the pleasure to attend an extremely moving and touching tribute to parents who have gone the extra mile to help their children receive a college education. Telemundo News came up with this fantastic idea where people (mostly sons and daughters) wrote essays about why their parents should be honored as Padres Héroes (Parent Heroes). We gathered at a luncheon celebration at USC to honor the eight regional winners and to announce the Grand Prize Winner, Mr. Gusmaro Reyes. Mr. Reyes endured unthinkable hardships during his childhood in Mexico, only to come to this country and raise children who went on to get degrees from some of the finest universities in the country. His mantra to his children was simple yet effective: "You can work in the fields or you can go to school." After he was announced as the winner, an extremely emotional Mr. Reyes, said above all, he wanted to make sure his children didn't suffer the way he did. I spoke about my own experience as a college student and how the love and support of my parents and their efforts to help me during that time, both large and small, continue to inspire me to this very day. Congratulations to Mr. Gusmaro Reyes and the other Padres Héroes.

Hermon & Eagle Rock Tree Lighting

2009-12-09T10:32:00.000-08:00

Thank you to everyone that came out to participate at the Tree Lighting Festivities at Hermon and Eagle Rock! Have a safe and Happy Holiday!

12.04.09 Newsletter

2009-12-06T02:14:00.000-08:00

Councilmember Huizar Acts to Protect Northeast Communities from 710 Extension

Councilmember Huizar introduced legislation through the City’s Information Technology and Government Affairs Committee Tuesday seeking to protect Northeast Los Angeles communities from any undue burden from a proposed extension of the North Long Beach 710 Freeway. The resolution, which was co-sponsored by Councilmember Huizar, along with Council President Eric Garcetti and Councilmember Ed Reyes, asks the City to officially oppose the extension of the freeway through Zones 1 and 2, which would run through a significant portion of Northeast Los Angeles. The resolution also seeks to protect the community of El Sereno by stating that if a tunnel of any kind is proposed, the portal must begin and end south of Valley Boulevard. In October, Governor Arnold Schwarzenneger vetoed a bill that would have banned any above-ground freeway option for the proposed extension of the northbound 710 Freeway to the 134/210 Freeways. The Councilmembers’ resolution is expected to be heard in Council next week.

Councilmember Huizar Pledges Support to El Salvador

On November 8, Hurricane Ida struck the country of El Salvador. More than 184 people were killed, hundreds of thousands have been displaced and thousands more have been injured. Councilmember Huizar, along with Council President Eric Garcetti and Councilmembers Ed Reyes, Tony Cardenas and Richard Alarcon, pledged a total of $10,000 in aid. By some accounts, Los Angeles is home to the second largest Salvadoran population outside of the nation’s capital, San Salvador. In March, Councilmember Huizar traveled to El Salvador with a delegation of prominent Salvadoran Americans election experts and city and state officials to help monitor the recent historic presidential election.
Photo Credit: Yuri Cortez-AFP/Getty Images via The Washington Post

The Salvadoran American Leadership and Education Fund (SALEF) is accepting tax-deductible donations to support the victims of Hurricane Ida.
Tax deductible donations can be made payable to:
EL SALVADOR CARE FUND (Chase Bank, Account #825607187)
Mail to SALEF:
1625 West Olympic Blvd., Suite 718
Los Angeles, CA 90015
For more information, please call (213) 480-1052 or visit www.salef.org

Councilmember Huizar Unveils Bringing Back Broadway Streetscape Master Plan

Last Tuesday, more than 100 community members gathered at The Exchange Building in Downtown's Historic Core to review and provide Melendrez Design Partners with input on final concepts for the Broadway Streetscape Master Plan. Part of Councilmember Huizar’s Bringing Back Broadway initiative, a 10-year plan to revitalize Broadway’s Historic Core, Councilmember Huizar described the final plan as one that prioritizes people over vehicles. The Streetscape Plan calls for widened and reinforced sidewalks, along with basement reconstruction in places where basements extend out under current sidewalks, which are collapsing in places. Curb extensions will provide space for comfortable, real-time transit stations for bus and streetcar users, while on-street parking and loading will support merchants. The plan also calls for new signage inspired by Broadway’s historic past along with new streetlamps, which with will have the street’s original, authentic design. Trees and plantings will be added to offer green elements to the street (supported by a storm water retention and recycling system). Completion of the streetscape plan is intended to coincide with construction of the streetcar line, which will connect historic Broadway with L.A. Live on one end and the Bunker Hill/Music Center area on the other by 2014.

Fourth Annual Operation Gobble-Gobble a Big Success!

Councilmember Huizar hosted the 4th Annual Operation Gobble-Gobble – an event aimed at helping families from El Sereno, Eagle Rock and Boyle Heights during Thanksgiving by providing a free turkey with all the trimmings. Held at the Boyle Heights Technology Center last week, about 700 turkeys were given out throughout the day thanks in large part to donors like the Boyle Heights Neighborhood Council, Food 4 Less, El Super, Chivas USA, and the SCE Credit Union. Councilmember Huizar teamed up with the Roybal Family Source Center and the Boyle Heights Technology Center to ensure families had a great Thanksgiving meal. The event featured photo opportunities with Chivas USA Girls and a children’s corner featuring a free movie screening and popcorn.

Visiting the Guadalajara Int’l Book Fair

As the former President of the Los Angeles Unified School District, promoting literacy is a key issue for Councilmember Huizar. This week, alongside Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Councilmember Huizar represented the City of Los Angeles at the Guadalajara International Book Fair – one of the biggest Spanish language book festivals in the world. More than 1,600 publishing houses from 40 countries participated, as well as scores of authors, literary agents and librarians. The City of Los Angeles was the Guest of Honor at this year’s festivities and reinforced the City’s longstanding reputation as a home to some of the world’s greatest contributors to literature, theater, dance, fine arts and film.

Schedule of CD 14 Holiday Events

2009-12-04T11:56:00.000-08:00

Holiday festivities begin today! Hope you and your family can make it out to any of the below events taking place in CD 14. All events are free for the whole family.

- Jose

Hermon Tree Lighting
December 4, 2009 6:30-8:30p.m.
Monterey Road & Via Marisol

Eagle Rock Tree Lighting Ceremony
December 4, 2009 6:30-8:30p.m.
Corner of Colorado Blvd. & Maywood Ave.

Glassell Park Tree Lighting Ceremony
December 11, 2009 6:30-7:00p.m.
Rite-Aid Parking Lot
4044 Eagle Rock Blvd.

Boyle Heights Tree Lighting Toy Giveaway
December 12, 2009 4-8:00p.m.
2844 E. 2nd Street Evergreen Park

El Sereno Tree Lighting and Toy Giveaway
December 19, 2009 4:00-8:00p.m.
Corner of Huntington Drive & Van Horne Ave.

Please consider donating a toy to our partners:

LAFD Spark of Love Program
Contact: Firefighter Michael Marquez

Marines Toys for Tots Foundation

Sgt. Franciso Ulloa

11.25.2009 Newsletter

2009-11-27T15:08:00.000-08:00

Councilmember Huizar's November Update on District 14.

As the end of 2009 quickly approaches, may you and yours be filled with lots of love and joyous moments during the upcoming holidays. There are many things we can be thankful for, our families, our health and the many blessings in our lives. May you have a blessed and beautiful Thanksgiving.
- Jose Huizar

Chief Beck is New Top CopThe City Council voted unanimously Tuesday to approve the Mayors nomination of Charlie Beck as new Los Angeles Police Department Police Chief. Councilmember Huizar hosted a community forum in El Sereno last week to introduce Chief Beck to residents and his candor, sincerity and commitment to fighting crime while building stronger relationships between the LAPD and the community, are proof that Chief Beck is the right person to lead the department after the successful reign of former Chief William Bratton. Chief Beck brings 32 years of experience to the job, a great deal of knowledge and a deep understanding of the intricacies of the department and the men and women who serve in it.
Pictured L-R: Margarita Amador, Jose Huizar, Charlie Beck, Sal Martinez

East LA Classic Scholarship Recipients
The 75th Anniversary of the East Los Angeles Classic, a gridiron matchup between Garfield and Roosevelt high schools, marked a momentous day in the history of the schools friendly football rivalry. Since he was a school board member, Councilmember Huizar has established a scholarship for the schools top students. While Roosevelt proved victorious on the football field this year, students from both schools have proven that they are winners in the classroom, each earning $500 to help them in their collegiate studies. Congratulations to this years scholarship winners! From Garfield: Marichuy Gomes, Genesis Coronado and Lained Huerta, and from Roosevelt: Joshua Recinos-Almanza, Andrea Carrillo and Elizabeth Torres.

Park Named in Honor of Veteran Ross Valencia, Mr. Boyle Heights
Councilmember Huizar was joined by Congresswoman Lucille Roybal Allard, family and friends, community members and a host of veterans on Veterans Day to pay tribute to WW II veteran and legendary Eastside activist Ross Valencia (Mr. Boyle Heights), by naming a community park in his honor. Ross Valencia, who died late last year, was a staunch Boyle Heights' supporter who founded many community groups, including the Boyle Heights Chamber of Commerce. He was also an original member of the LANI Vest Pocket Park Steering Committee, the very same park that now bears his name. Councilmember Huizar, with the support of the community and Mr. Valencias wife, Carmen Valencia, led the effort to name the park in honor of the man who did so much for the Boyle Heights community.

Celebrating Veterans Day
CD14 residents have a storied history of serving in the United States Armed Forces. Councilmember Huizar joined veterans, families and community members at celebrations in El Sereno and Eagle Rock to honor the men and women who answered the nations call to service and put themselves in harms way to protect the liberties of so many. Flags flew at half-staff throughout the district in their honor and the Veterans Day parades in El Sereno and Eagle Rock allowed one and all to give thanks to our Veterans for all they have done and continue to do for the betterment of family, God and country. While giving thanks to the veterans and their families, Councilmember Huizar asked that we honor their service each and every day.

*Approximately 131,000 U.S Veterans find themselves homeless each night. Please visit www.va.gov to find ways in which you can help.

Boyle Heights Block Party a Smashing Success!
To kick off the official opening of the $898 million Edward R. Roybal Gold Line Eastside Extension, as well as the additional $500 million in public investment in the community, Councilmember Huizar hosted a Boyle Heights Block Party last Sunday. The day-long celebration honored Boyle Heights past, present and future and Councilmember Huizar was joined by Israeli Consul General Jacob Dayan, Japanese Consul General Junichi Ihara, and Mexican Consul General Juan Marco Gutierrez to commemorate Boyle Heights diverse history and its legacy as one of Los Angeles first suburbs. The event also celebrated the 19th Annual Boyle Heights Mariachi Festival, while contemporary bands graced a second stage where the main attraction, Tierra, played a rousing set that had folks swaying and dancing to the music. Thank you to everyone who came out, as well as the organizations and volunteers who participated. See pictures HERE!

Councilmember Huizar Fighting for Better Control of Medical Marijuana
In a meeting that paired up the City Councils Planning and Land Use Management Committee and the Public Safety Committee, Councilmember Huizar voted with his colleagues Monday to allow for the sale of medical marijuana only as a means to cover incurred expenses, but not for profit. As the City Council continues to work on a permanent Medical Marijuana Ordinance, Councilmember Huizar has worked diligently with residents of CD14 to alleviate the over-concentration of dispensaries within his district and their proximity schools, churches and other areas of concern. In City Council on Wednesday, Councilmember Huizar proposed a number of amendments, including a cap of 70 dispensaries based on population within planning areas, as well as requiring that one operator may only operate one collective, thereby prohibiting multiple or serial ownership of collectives. Earlier, in order to deal with the illegal operation of hundreds of dispensaries, Councilmember introduced legislation to strike the Citys medical marijuana interim control ordinances hardship exemption clause.

New Arts High School in Downtown!
This month, Councilmember Huizar joined LAUSD School Board President Monica Garcia and others to celebrate the grand opening of the new Central Arts High School, which will focus on visual and performing arts. While serving as President of the Los Angeles School Board, Councilmember Huizar pushed for new schools to be built in dense populated areas to better serve the children of those communities forced to attend over-populated local schools and Central Arts High School was at the forefront of that movement. Central Arts High offers students a state-of-the-art facility that will enrich Los Angeles with the next generation of talented and gifted artists.

Council Passes Huizars Legislation Supporting School Uniforms
The City Council voted unanimously to support Councilmember Huizars proposal to ask the Los Angeles Unified School District to adopt a district-wide policy requiring students to wear school uniforms. Already used in the district at most of the charter schools and the Mayors Partnership schools, school uniforms foster a healthy learning environment, which allows students to concentrate on their studies. Other cities, such as Long Beach, Seattle, Washington D.C., Philadelphia and New York have implemented a mandatory school uniform policy to great success. School uniforms help create a safer campus environment where students are easily identifiable and gang colors are not allowed. For low-income families, school uniforms offer an affordable alternative since fewer outfits would be needed and go a long way in helping those children deal with self-esteem issues associated with lack of funds to buy name-brand clothes. While the LAUSD has discretion over whether to implement the City Councils recommendation, there is no doubt with about 250 LAUSD schools being opened up to private ownership with the Public School Choice legislation the school board recently passed, hundreds of LAUSD schools will soon implement a school uniform policy.
Pictured: Students in uniform at new Oscar de la Hoya Charter School in Boyle Heights.

Councilmember Huizar's Food Database Legislation Moving Forward
Councilmember Huizars legislation to create a City-wide policy to link food banks and non-profits that offer food services to City departments that have surplus food is moving forward. Earlier this month, Councilmember Huizar asked City departments to return to Council in 60 days or less to inform the Council what their formal policy will be to implement this policy. Also, Councilmember Huizars staff is currently working with the Citys 311 Information Service and non-profits to create a food-bank database, where callers can easily get information on nearby food banks to either call for food services or to donate food.

Giving Thanks this Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T03:04:00.000-08:00

I just want to wish everyone a very happy and safe Thanksgiving. As for myself, I have much to be thankful for. First and foremost, like all of you, I am thankful for my wonderful family, my wife, Richelle, my children, Emilia, Isabella and Simon Luis (with another daughter on the way). I am thankful for my health. And as the Councilmember for District 14, I am thankful to you, my constituents, for allowing me to represent you. I have the greatest job in the world and I enjoy coming to work each and everyday to work on your behalf. I am also thankful for all the improvements that are going on in our district. We recently opened the Edward R. Roybal Gold Line Eastside Extension and had a fantastic block party celebrating its opening and the $1.4 billion in public improvement projects in Boyle Heights. I am thankful for community members like the late Ross Valencia, “Mr. Boyle Heights,” who we recently named a park after. I am thankful for a committed group of people in El Sereno who helped me fight against potentially dangerous development on Elephant Hill, or “The Heavens” as it once was known. I’m thankful that I have the opportunity to effect policy that protects our neighborhoods from the over-proliferation of unlicenced medical marijuana dispensaries. I am thankful for our veterans who have sacrificed so much so that we all can enjoy the freedoms we have in this great country and I’d ask you to please say a prayer for our men and women who are serving our country right now, many far away from their families during the holidays. Again, thank you for allowing me to be your representative. It is something that I take very seriously and to you, I am deeply thankful. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!
Ross Valencia Pic: Courtesy of Boyle Heights Neighborhood Council

Boyle Heights Block Pictures!

2009-11-21T20:25:00.000-08:00

Enjoy these pictures from our Boyle Heights Block Party!
Thank you for making it such a great success!

Boyle Heights Block Party on Sunday!

2009-11-11T17:14:00.000-08:00

FREE COMMUNITY EVENT!

Boyle Heights Block Party and Mariachi Festival
Sunday, November 15
8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
First Street (between Boyle Ave. and State St.)
Contact: (323) 526-3059

Metro Gold Line Official Grand Opening
Boyle Heights Block Party and Mariachi Festival

Join me and tens of thousands of attendees as we celebrate the opening of the Metro Gold Line Eastside Extension and the numerous Council District 14 neighborhood improvement projects completed this year, including the brand new Mendez Learning Center High School, the Oscar De La Hoya Animo Charter High School, KIPP Charter School, the Boyle Heights Sports Center, and the new Hollenbeck Police Station.

The historic community of Boyle Heights is experiencing a rebirth as it undergoes more than $1.4 billion in upgrades. With several multi-million dollar projects completed this year, there is tremendous excitement surrounding the many great things coming our way.

Come celebrate with us and treat yourself to free entertainment, good food and friends from Boyle Heights' past and present.

One musical stage will highlight an eclectic mix of music, including reggae, Latin (cumbia, rumba, and Spanish Rock), headlined by the ever popular, Tierra. In addition to Tierra, this stage will feature:

Quinto Sol, Domingo Siete, UmoVerde, Dirty Hands, & Jahny Wallz

And playing a mix of mariachi music inspired by different regions of Mexico, this year's Mariachi Festival on the second stage will include performances by internationally recognized mariachis, including:

Mariachi Sol del Mexico, Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles, Mariachi Mexicapan, Mariachi Voz de America, Mariachi Santa Cecelia and Mariachi Conservatory.

Along with the live entertainment, come and enjoy free giveaways and informational resource booths. All are welcome. Bring your children and participate in a free kids corner with oversized bouncers, arts and crafts, Chivas USA soccer kick, and a rock climbing wall.

Also featured will be a photo exhibit recognizing the men and women of the Bracero Program--the labor-contract program between U.S. and Mexico during WW II and on until the 60's. The exhibit is on the corner of State and 1st St., next to the Council District 14 office that will have an open house all day.

Sunday's Block Party is sponsored by my office, Metro, the Mariachi Festival Planning Committee, Boyle Heights Neighborhood Council, Wells Fargo and others.

You won't want to miss out on all of the fun! Please call (323) 526-3059 for more information.

Elephant Hill Residents See Victory

2009-11-04T23:19:00.001-08:00

This morning I gathered with El Sereno residents to celebrate a victory 25 years in the making. The long-contested battle to protect homes from potentially dangerous development in Elephant Hill in El Sereno will soon be over. At my urging, my colleagues on the City Council voted unanimously yesterday to support a settlement with a developer that will allow the City to buy the original 15 acres of contested land, plus four more acres for $9 million. Our court battle was about an old Environmental Impact Report putting our residents and hillsides at risk. Although a judge initially ruled against the City in this matter, he did not compel the City to issue the final permit necessary for the developer to start construction on the 24 luxury homes on Elephant Hill. At the end of the day, this is good for everyone involved. For El Sereno residents, it's environmental justice. Somebody said today that the Westside has its beaches and we in the Northeast have our hills. Having grown up in Boyle Heights, environmental justice issues resonate with me. I have made it a priority to fight polluters in my district, taking them to court (Shamrock, ISOCI, Vernon). And I have fought for better policies like the Northeast LA Hillside Ordinance, to make sure that hillside lots are developed in a way that is sensitive to the hillside and existing homes. And now that the residents of El Sereno have 19 acres of their beloved Elephant Hill back, they can start thinking about what they want to do with it. At the very least, it will be protected open space that people can enjoy now and in the future. Congratulations to all, especially Elva Yanez, who spearheaded the battle and sat me down in her living room for two hours when I was running for City Council to tell me the problems with this proposed development. Also thanks to Vanessa Yanez, Geneece Perez, Casey Reagan, Hugo Garcia, the National Resource Defense Council and the Latino Urban Forum. There are many others to thank. Unfortunately, some people involved in this struggle didn’t live long enough to see this through. They are people who used to enjoy the hills of El Sereno at one time and beyond the concerns over potentially unsafe development, they wanted future generations to enjoy those same hills and ravines. We honor them and we will not forget their contributions to this noble effort.
Press Release

Halloween in CD 14

2009-11-03T01:08:00.000-08:00

The past couple of days of Halloween activities in CD 14 have been really great! From little princesses to Michael Jackson impersonators, take a look at our district-wide slide show of great costumes! Hope everyone had a Happy Halloween!

Gold Line Will be Golden Opportunity

2009-10-31T16:40:00.000-07:00

Today I rode with Metro CEO Art Leahy, Mayor Villaraigosa and my fellow MTA directors for a test ride on the soon-to-open Gold Line Eastside Extension. With the media invited along, we rode from Union Station to the Soto Station, which has some very eclectic but beautiful art inside. The ride itself was very smooth and I look forward to riding the line more often once it opens on Nov. 15, 2009. I'm happy that Metro has committed to adding $4.5 million in additional safety improvements and I've asked that areas around Mendez and Ramona High Schools and El Mercado be given top priority, so that those new features, which will include buffers and fencing to discourage people from jaywalking across the tracks, will be installed as soon as possible. I will continue to monitor the situation well beyond the opening as safety is the top priority for me and the other MTA directors. Beyond that, I couldn't help but think today as someone who grew up in Boyle Heights, how much this train line is going to allow kids from Boyle Heights and East L.A. to explore other parts of the City. And visa versa. I like that idea. That we're not really connecting trains. We're connecting people.

Oscar de la Hoya Animo Green Dot Charter School, Welcome Home!

2009-10-31T12:41:00.000-07:00

During my time as School Board President for LAUSD, Steve Barr of Green Dot Charter Schools approached me about building a charter high school in my district. I suggested Boyle Heights since the two local schools, Garfield and Roosevelt, were severely overcrowded and they needed relief. Along with pushing to get the Mendez Learning Center built, I knew this would be an opportunity to improve the educational future of our local students. Yesterday, I had the great pleasure to celebrate the opening of the Oscar de la Hoya Animo Green Dot Charter School. Green Dot has shown great commitment to the community of Boyle Heights . And Oscar de la Hoya, who grew up in East Los Angeles and proudly attended Garfield High School , demonstrated yet again that he is absolutely committed to giving back to his community. By donating the property that once held the Oscar De La Hoya Resurrection Gym, as well as giving $4.5 million to the project, Oscar De La Hoya has proven to be a champion in and out of the boxing ring. Before finding a permanent home in Boyle Heights , students and faculty of the charter school have had several temporary homes since the school’s opening in 2003. Despite less than ideal conditions, over the last three years, 72% of graduates have gone on to 4-year universities and the school is ranked 53 among the top 100 charter schools in the nation. With a new home, we all expect bigger and better things out of the students of Oscar De La Hoya Animo Charter School. Go Boxers!
Photo Credit: Golden Boy Productions

Boyle Heights Rec Center Soccer Fields in Full Use!

2009-10-25T20:45:00.000-07:00

Also on Saturday, boys and girls’ soccer teams from El Sereno and Boyle Heights squared off for the unofficial 1st Annual soccer match at the new $2.2 million renovated Boyle Heights Sports Center. The Center is now the site of the first City-built synthetic soccer field on the Eastside. After construction on the project began, state funding was frozen due to the poor economy and I worked with the Department of Recreation and Parks and the Bureau of Engineering to find City loans to complete the project. From the $50 million Valley Boulevard Bridge, to the Metro Gold Line, to the Mendez Learning Center and the new Hollenbeck Police Station, to the Sports Center (just to name a few!), L.A.’s Eastside is enjoying a time of unprecedented public project improvements. I’m happy to have done my part to turn these dreams into reality. Congrats to all the boys and girls (and their families) for coming out to our fair yesterday and thanks to all our organizations, including representative from the 2010 Census for coming out and helping.

New LAPD Headquarters in Downtown Los Angeles

2009-10-25T17:30:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, I joined LAPD Chief William Bratton, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and several of my colleagues on the City Council for the official opening of the police department’s new downtown headquarters, replacing the aging Parker Center. Located across from City Hall, the new headquarters is a stunning-looking building, with plenty of park space for people to enjoy. This week is also Chief Bratton’s last week on the job after 7 years at the helm of the department. During his tenure, crime has dropped in Los Angeles to the lowest mark per capita since the 1950s. He was very instrumental in helping the department engage more with the community and we all owe him a debt of gratitude for that.
Photo Credit: Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times / October 24, 2009

Oxy's New President, Jonathan Veitch, Welcome!

2009-10-25T12:47:00.000-07:00

I attended a breakfast yesterday morning for Jonathan Veitch before his inauguration as new Occidental College President. I first met Jonathan a few months ago and I knew then that he was a committed and dedicated leader. Located in Eagle Rock, Occidental has a reputation as an excellent liberal arts university (President Barack Obama was a student) and I know that Jonathan will be tremendous asset to the college, its faculty and, most importantly, to the students. Congratulations, Mr. Veitch!

Photo Credit: 1)President Veitch, courtesy Occidental Facebook Page
2) Council Staff

El Sereno Stallions Homecoming, 15 Years and Still Going Strong

2009-10-20T01:02:00.000-07:00

On Sunday I was invited to the El Sereno Stallions Homecoming at Wilson High School. What a great event! The Stallions are celebrating 15 years in the El Sereno community under the direction of Jorge Hernandez. The commitment that the parents, coaches, football players and cheerleaders demonstrate is really inspiring. When I was a young boy, sports were always a part of my life. I wanted to be a baseball player and I was glad to see that Louie Moreno, who was my high school baseball coach, was the MC at the Stallions Homecoming. A big congratulations and thank you is in order to the Stallions head coaches, Joel Cuevas, Lionel Gonzalez, Robin Joseph Sr., Mario Zepeda, Bert Pere, Andy Carrillo and Art Garcia, as well as the many parents and family members who volunteer their time to teach these kids the importance of team spirit and sportsmanship. Playing sports and being involved allows students to be positive role models and teaches the value of hard work, commitment and friendship. Congratulation again to the players and the 2009 court! Great job!

Northeast LA LAPD Open House & Resource Fair , A Celebration of Community

2009-10-19T22:07:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, I joined Captain Bill Murphy and the brave men and women of the Northeast Los Angeles Police Station for their Annual Open House and Resource Fair. The entire station was packed with people from the community, from seniors to tots, as well vendors serving up great local food. I believe Captain Murphy said they had well over 1,000 people in attendance. Everyday, LAPD officers risk their lives to protect our neighborhoods and communities. It’s important that we take the time to thank them and acknowledge them for all they do. Because of the commitment and hard work of the Northeast Division and the leadership of Captain Murphy, the Northeast has ranked 1st in crime reduction City-wide with homicides down 56 percent and violent crime down 10 percent. We know that accomplishments like these come to fruition by building strong community alliances. This Open House and Resource Fair provided a safe and fun environment where residents had the opportunity to meet police officers, take a tour of the station, and build the type of relationships that will help improve all our lives. Thank you to everyone who attended and to the many volunteers who made it all possible.

Grand Opening of Fire Station 4

2009-10-18T15:01:00.000-07:00

Firestation #4, built in 1948 and servicing the historical areas of Chinatown, Little Tokyo and Olvera Street re-opened today with great community anticipation. Originally only 11,000 square feet, the new facility is now 40,000 square feet, fully Hazmat ready and fully LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified. The station is part of the Public Safety Complex which includes the Emergency Operations Center, the Police Operations Center, the Fire Department’s Dispatch Center and the Emergency Management Department. All the firefighters at this station are specially trained to respond to a full spectrum of fire, medical and other emergencies. It is great to see that this newly redesigned facility also has the capability to serve as a grounds for training exercises and also houses multiple rescue ambulances. The men and women who serve with the Los Angeles Fire Department are brave, they risk their lives every day and as a Councilmember, I am honored to ensure they have the resources they need to assist the public.

USC Health and Wellness Fair

2009-10-18T14:52:00.000-07:00

On Saturday I was joined by the Consul General of Mexico Juan Marcos Gutierrez Gonzalez and Sheriff Lee Baca at the USC Health and Wellness Community Fair at East Los Angeles Occupational Center. The USC Civic and Community Relations Health Sciences Campus presented the free fair to the community which included informational, health screenings and community booths. This event and partnership is important as it helps connect the resources at the USC Health Campus directly with members of the community. With the participation with the many organizations that partook in the fair, residents received medical services and information that they may otherwise not have access too. There are many things that we can do on a local level to ensure that people receive medical services. I look forward to continuing our partnership so that we can bring additional services to our community.

LA’s Best & Sunrise Elementary Receive $10k

2009-10-17T12:35:00.000-07:00

On Friday, I spent the afternoon with the kids at Sunrise Elementary School and the team of LA’s Best. Thanks to LA’s Best education and community partner, Target, LA’s BEST received a $10,000 grant which has allowed them to makeover libraries and install computers at 6 of their sites, including Sunrise Elementary in Boyle Heights. LA’s Best was also able to provide literacy kits and books to students at 29 other sites. To put it in perspective 4,000 students will directly benefit from this grant. At Sunrise, the library has been transformed with new furniture, new computers and even new artwork. It’s great to see that Sunrise continues to grow and provide such great resources for the kids.

The Students at L.A. Central Learning Center #1 will Know Legacy of Robert Kennedy

2009-10-13T14:52:00.000-07:00

Pictured: With the mothers that organized when I was on the school board to make sure a new school was built in the community.

This weekend I attended the Ribbon Cutting for two fine new schools built on the Ambassador Hotel site, one of the campuses I fought to get done while serving on the LAUSD school board. The campus is significant to me for two reasons. One, it was ground-zero in our mission to end overcrowding at schools that resulted in year-round calendars and bussing children out of their neighborhoods – both severe detriments to a quality education. And two, the Ambassador is the site of one of the saddest moments in our nation’s history: the 1968 assassination of Robert Kennedy, who at the time of his untimely death represented a new-found hope for change in this country. When complete, the Learning Center will have three separate school buildings for elementary, middle school, and high school students and all the schools will have a social justice philosophy to honor the legacy of Robert Kennedy. I think the final piece of the puzzle now is naming the school in Robert Kennedy’s honor, which I whole-heartedly support.
Enjoy these pictures of the event!

Fighting Graffiti on the L.A. River

2009-10-13T12:43:00.000-07:00

On Thursday I joined Sgt. Maj. Jeffrey Koontz from the Army Corps of Engineers on the Los Angeles River (near the Sixth Street Bridge) to remove gang graffiti from 100 miles of the flood control channel. We were also there to thank Sheriff’s Deputies for their work, which led to the arrests of some of the alleged taggers responsible for what many consider the largest tag in the U.S. The City of Los Angeles spends more than $10 million a year battling graffiti and I’m working on several solutions, including SB138, my plan authored with State Senator Carol Liu to raise the tax on spray paint cans and felt-tip markers to increase local graffiti funding; a multi-jurisdictional, multi-agency data-base to better track repeat offenders.

On a different perspective, beautifying the community has always been top priority of mine. With the help and recommendations of the residents, last year, the "Art Heals" mural in Ramona Gardens was completed. We made sure that this mural paid homage to our history. The City of Los Angeles has a great tradition of public street art, and preserving the many murals throughout my district and the city requires that we take pride in maintaining them free of vandalism.

Honoring a Great Man in El Sereno – Robert F. Saunders Parking Grove

2009-10-13T09:40:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful day Thursday morning when I was joined by 200 schoolchildren, teachers, community members and family and friends of Robert F. Saunders for a plaque dedication ceremony in honor of the beloved Farmdale Elementary School volunteer. Mr. Saunders, who passed away in 2008, was absolutely instrumental in working with me to pave over a dirt parking lot shared by families of Farmdale students and children who play sports at the adjacent El Sereno Park. I first heard about this troublesome parking lot – which blew loads of dust in the dry season and became dangerously muddy in the wet season – while I was on the LAUSD Board of Education. I discovered then that it was City property, so when I joined the City Council, I worked to find $410,000 in funding to finish this project, which includes new trees and a community garden. I want to thank Farmdale Principal, Teresita Saracho de Palma, and Mr. Saunders' family, who were on hand for the dedication, for their help in making this a reality. Robert Saunders is proof that one person really can make a difference and we all owe a debt of gratitude to him for never giving up on a dream.

City Council Reward Motion Leads to Arrest in Fatal Hit-and-Run in El Sereno

2009-10-13T09:01:00.000-07:00

Recently I announced a $50,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person responsible for the August 3rd death of motorcyclist Federico Porras. The 29-year-old man, who was raised in City Terrace, was a loved brother and father of a 4-year-old daughter and his family and friends attended a press conference with police officials and me to plea for the public’s help. Within a week of that press conference, police received a tip that led to the arrest of the alleged driver who is now facing felony charges. While nothing can bring their brother back, the Porras family did convey their heartfelt thanks to all whose help led to this arrest, which should bring some closure to them. I want to thank LAPD Deputy Chief Sergio Diaz, Capt. Ron Marbrey and their fantastic detectives for their work on this case. I also want to remind drivers that they are required under law to render aid if they are involved in an auto collision and somebody is injured, regardless who is at fault. If they leave the scene of the crash, they could be facing felony charges.

11th Annual Eagle Rock Music Festival!

2009-10-02T13:24:00.001-07:00

Join me and the Center for the Arts, Eagle Rock at the 11th Annual Music Festival! FREE! Tomorrow Saturday October 3rd from 4 p.m. - 11 p.m.

Bring your family and friends and enjoy an afternoon of great entertainment with more than 40 musical acts and great food!
Don’t worry about parking! We have a FREE parking and shuttle service at Eagle Rock Plaza on Colorado Blvd. between Eagle Rock Blvd. and Argus.

This is a great event the whole family can enjoy. See you there!

Donating Surplus Food to Establish a City Food Policy

2009-10-02T13:14:00.000-07:00

Recently, I introduced legislation that would allow the City of Los Angeles to donate surplus food to food banks and non-profits. Earlier, I presented a resolution in support of State Senate Bill 35, which would establish a state-wide database linking food banks and non-profits with food service providers that want to donate surplus food. Both actions aim to help those who disperse food to the needy throughout the City of Los Angeles and to establish a comprehensive City food policy. According to Hunger Action L.A., approximately 30 percent of L.A. County families consider themselves “food insecure,” and with the current economic climate, many food banks are seeing increased need while experiencing a shortage in donations. There are many things that we can do to help others, this is only the first step. Read L.A. Times story HERE.
Photo by Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times

Bracero Workers Remembered at Placita Olvera

2009-10-02T12:35:00.000-07:00

I recently co-presented a resolution in Council naming September 29 as "International Bracero Day" for the City of Los Angeles. My father was a Bracero worker during the 1950's and 60's and I truly believe it's important to recognize the contributions of so many families in our American history. There will be a FREE photography exhibit at the Mexican Cultural Institute Gallery at El Pueblo Cultural Monument titled "Recollections from Yesterday and Today of Ex-Braceros" now until Oct. 18. I encourage you to share and celebrate the history of the Bracero workers at El Pueblo, 125 Paseo de la Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90012. Info: (323) 710-3696.

Pancakes at Mt. Washington Elementary

2009-09-30T12:23:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, my family and I enjoyed a really great pancake breakfast fundraiser that the Mt. Washington elementary school PTA hosted. The school had a really great turn out and raised a good amount of money for school. Congratulations!

State of Eagle Rock Solid at TERA Meeting

2009-09-26T13:14:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, I delivered my “State of the Town Address” to The Eagle Rock Association (TERA). TERA has been advocating on behalf of Eagle Rock for more than 20 years and it’s always an honor for me to spend some time with them. I want to thank them for hosting for this event. We had a nice turnout as I updated folks on some of the issues I’ve been working on, such as pushing forward on hearing medical marijuana hardship exemption cases throughout my district. At my urging, the City has heard more hardship exemptions in Council District 14 than any other Council office and I thanked Eagle Rock residents for their help in leading me to move to strike the hardship exemption clause from the Interim Control Ordinance. We also talked about LAPD’s Northeast Division ranking 1st in crime reduction City-wide with homicides down 56 percent and violent crime down 10 percent. And after Wednesday mornings multi-agency law enforcement sweep throughout the Northeast led to the arrests of 78 alleged gang members, some alleged to be responsible in the killing of L.A. Sheriff’s Deputy Juan Escalante, we are hopeful crime will drop even more. Thanks again to TERA, my staff and the community members who came out.

Come Out to the Mendez Learning Center's Ribbon-Cutting Tomorrow!

2009-09-23T13:51:00.000-07:00

Please join me tomorrow morning at the official ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Felicitas and Gonzalo Mendez Learning Center, the first high school built in the eastside in more than 80 years. During my time as president of the school board I fought to get a much-need high school built in Boyle Heights to relieve overcrowding at Roosevelt High School, which at one time was the most overcrowded school west of the Mississippi. I also wanted a school with a math-science focus to prepare kids for high-paying tech jobs that are going to be available in the future. The Mendez Learning Center, which is named after a Mexican American couple who fought school segregation in the 1940s, will have a math-science school and an engineering-technology school. This is an accomplishment the whole community can feel proud about, so please join me, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, LAUSD School Board President Monica Garcia and hundreds of students and community members for this great celebration.

When: 9 a.m., Thursday, Sept. 24, 2009

Where: Mendez Learning Center
1200 Plaza de Sol
Los Angeles, CA 90033

Info: Councilmember Huizar’s
Boyle Heights Office
(323) 526-3059

Join me this Saturday at Grand Opening for New Hollenbeck Police Station

2009-09-17T16:16:00.000-07:00

This Saturday at 6 p.m., please join me, LAPD Chief William Bratton, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Councilmember Ed Reyes, Capt. Anita Ortega and others at the official Grand Opening for the new Hollenbeck Police Station, a stunning 54,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility that will house more than 282 patrol officers, detectives and support staff. The new police station is just one of a number of improvements we’re working on in Boyle Heights – (Next up, The East Side Gold Line Extension!) Please bring friends and family Saturday as we celebrate this great new community police station, which includes an outside area where people can gather or sit and read a book. It’s really an awesome addition to our community.

When: 6 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 19, 2009
Where: Hollenbeck Area Community Police Station
2111 East First Street (at Chicago)
Info: Councilmember Huizar’s Boyle Heights Office (323) 526-3059

Photo courtesy of Martha Benedict for lacp.org

El Sereno Sees Business Improvements Along Huntington Drive

2009-09-04T16:14:00.000-07:00

I’m very proud to see that El Sereno is seeing a revitalization of its business corridor. In 2006, I asked the City’s Community Development Department to find projects that would improve the business environment along Huntington Drive and I was happy we were able to set aside $354,000 for El Sereno Beautification. Yesterday I was joined by LANI – the Los Angeles Neighborhood Initiative, the El Sereno Steering Committee, community members and youth from Barrio Action Youth Family Center to celebrate the renovations in façade and signage of many store fronts alongside the Huntington Drive Corridor. Together, we are helping beautify and create a more pedestrian-friendly environment for the community.

Aside from a new building, lighting and signage improvements to nine storefronts between Castalia and Rosemead avenues, the renovations allowed one property owner the opportunity to lease three spaces that have been empty for more than 20 years. For their involvement, LANI awarded the El Sereno Steering Committee, which consists of El Sereno stakeholders and property and business owners, their 2009 Outstanding Community Project Award winners.

Recently, my office has also help fund the trimming of 500 trees along Huntington Drive and Eastern Avenue, as well as add 20 new trash receptacles and increased bulky-item pickups throughout El Sereno. Thank you to everyone that keeps making these improvements possible!

Mendez Learning Center: Old Dreams Inspire New Ones

2009-09-04T11:44:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, I was joined by Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, LAUSD School Board President Monica Garcia, HENAAC and school administrators at a celebration for the Felicitas and Gonzalo Mendez Learning Center, a brand new high school in Boyle Heights. It was a profound experience to gather with parents, youth and Sylvia Mendez (pictured above), who in 1946 was only a little girl when her parents, Felicitas and Gonzalo Mendez, filed a lawsuit to end the segregation of Mexican children in schools in Santa Ana. The Mendez v. Westminster case paved the wave for Brown v. Board of Education. The Mendez Learning Center is named after these trailblazers and is the first high school to be built in Boyle Heights in decades. During my time on the school board, I set my sites on building a new high school in the Eastside to relieve overcrowding at Roosevelt High School, which at the time was one of the most overcrowded schools in the Western United States. The new campus will receive students from Roosevelt, which will allow both schools to be on a traditional school-year calendar instead of what I consider a vastly inferior year-round schedule. As Board President, I oversaw the building of several new schools and took a stand to not approve any new school in the district until we had a commitment to build a new high school in Boyle Heights. Beyond getting the school built, I wanted a campus dedicated to math and science, to allow kids on the Eastside the opportunity to pursue careers in the undermanned high-tech fields that pay the kind of salaries that can really transform lives. Thankfully, the Mendez Learning Center is styled as a college campus and houses two schools, one in math and science and the other in technology and engineering. With the access to many high tech firms and city agencies right across the First Street bridge, it is my hope that kids attending Mendez will have hands-on internship opportunities throughout the school year to inspire them and to learn that all their dreams are truly possible.

Boyle Heights Arts District: An Artistic Place to Call Home

2009-08-31T18:14:00.001-07:00

I encourage you to read this great article in the L.A. Times about an effort put forth by a group of Boyle Heights’ artists and me to create an Arts District in Boyle Heights. After seeing an organic blossoming of local art and theater at CASA 0101, First Street Studios Gallery, as well as the Brooklyn and Boyle Gallery, I asked UCLA Professor Leo Estrada if he and his Urban Planning grad students could come up with a plan. Their comprehensive, community based report provided the groundwork for the efforts currently underway. But it’s really the artists and the community that is driving this effort. And Boyle Heights is going through quite a revitalization that will no doubt improve lives for the better. The Mendez Learning Center will open this fall. The Gold Line is almost completed, and Mariachi Plaza will also soon reopen. Boyle Heights has a rich history in the arts and culture, and these renovations bring a positive infusion to the community that will improve the corridor and really bring Boyle Heights into the 21st century. The collective of Boyle Heights artists that formed A.R.T.E.S. (Artist Revitalizing The East Side) are working very closely with my office to ensure that community needs are met first and the organic feel of this revitalization remains intact. It is an exciting time for our community, and as a resident and the Councilmember for the district, I am proud to see Boyle Heights doing more to offer opportunities to local community artists.

El Super Opens and Brings Jobs to Highland Park

2009-08-28T18:14:00.000-07:00

Today I had the distinct honor of welcoming El Super to the Highland Park community. For some time now, the lot on York Ave. and Ave. 56 has sat empty and isolated, weakening the value of the neighborhood. In these hard economic times, a grand opening for a business is rare. El Super showed interest in the community of Highland Park and has worked closely with my office to make sure that community needs were met. El Super brings 100 local jobs and has employed local residents, offering opportunities in a time when not many companies can. At today’s Grand Opening celebration, I was happy to join Carlos Smith, President and CEO of El Super, vendors, community leaders, and the newly hired staff to celebrate the grand opening of this new supermarket that will offer fresh and affordable produce to residents. I think I can safely say that many residents are thankful for the investment being made in Highland Park and I look forward to the many positive benefits El Super will bring.

Volunteers Show up in Force for CD 14 Community Cleanup

2009-08-18T14:08:00.001-07:00

This Saturday, over 1,000 volunteers, City workers and contractors came out to beautify El Sereno, Boyle Heights and Northeast Los Angeles in our effort to improve Council District 14. Collectively, we worked on 40 separate projects, including removing graffiti, bulky items and overgrown weeds in pathways, schools and parks. It was refreshing to see so many hard working people (especially all the young people) who gave up their Saturday morning and showed real community pride. To highlight just a few of the many projects, in the Northeast, members of two local Girl Scout troops and Victory Outreach came out in full force and swept up streets and cleaned major corridors; in El Sereno, our award-winning cheerleading squad, Pride All Stars, cleared weeds and picked up trash outside Farmdale Elementary School and El Sereno Middle School; and in Boyle Heights, students at Roosevelt High School repainted benches around the trees in the school’s quad area. I painted over some graffiti on Blueberry Hill (under the supervision of Graffiti Busters!) and joined several young students collecting trash around the Evergreen jogging path. Also, we trimmed trees as part of my effort to fund the trimming of more than 1,500 trees throughout the district and we placed 110 additional trash receptacles throughout CD 14, improving the overall quality of life in our community.

Reminder: Besides City’s regular Bulky Item program, CD 14 Bulky Item pickup:
El Sereno: every 2nd Saturday
Boyle Heights: every 3rd Saturday
Northeast: every 4th Saturday

Please call any of my district offices or 311 to report potholes, graffiti or bulky items. A big thank you to everyone who came out and supported the Community Clean Up, including the following agencies, organizations and concerned residents who lent a hand. My apologies if I miss anybody. You all did a wonderful job!

Enjoy the pictures!

City of Los Angeles and partners:
Department of Public Works Commissioner Cynthia Ruiz, Enrique Saldivar, General Manger Bureau of Sanitation, Nazario Sauceda, Assistant General Manger Bureau of Street Services, Urban Forestry, Office of Community Beautification, Department of Transportation, Northeast Graffiti Busters, Clean and Green and the Los Angeles Conservation Corp.

Community groups and organizations:

Northeast Los Angeles
Victory Outreach, Girl Scouts (Troops 216 and 330), Historic Highland Park Neighborhood Council, Eagle Rock Neighborhood Council, Arroyo Seco Neighborhood Council, Glassell Park Improvement Association, Mt. Washington community members, Eagle Rock Kiwanis Club, San Pascual Neighborhood Watch and the North Highland Park Neighborhood Watch.

El Sereno:
L.A. 32 Neighborhood Council, Semillas del Pueblo Charter School, Rose Hills residents, El Sereno Stallions Football Program, Wilson High School Football team, Hollenbeck PALS, Barrio Action, Calvary Chapel, Our Lady of Guadalupe, Monterey Hills Federation, Club Deportivo, Hillside Village Homeowners Association, University Hills Homeowners Association, Pride All Stars, Mi Casita Parent Organization and Plaza de La Raza.

Boyle Heights:
El Centro de Ayuda, Youth Opportunity Movement, Aliso Pico Girl Scouts , East Los Angeles Community Corporation, YMCA Camp Whittle Volunteers, Gang Alternatives Program, Roosevelt High School (including Football and Basketball Drill teams), People who Care, Salesian Boys and Girls Clubs, Partnership for Los Angeles Schools, Los Angeles Conservation Corps, La Purisima Neighborhood Watch, LA Voice at Talpa Church and Abuelitos de Boyle Heights.

And special thanks to our sponsors: Charlie’s Trio Restaurant, Jarritos Sodas, El Mercado Restaurant, Cafe De Leche, CVS Pharmacy, Ellis Paints/Pacific Resource Recovery, Italiano’s Pizza and Occidental Plaza.

Moving Forward on Behalf of Southwest Museum Despite Autry’s Announcement

2009-08-18T13:41:00.000-07:00

The Autry abandoned plans to expand its Griffith Park Museum last week. I am surprised and disappointed the Autry did not fully engage in negotiations with me, which is what the City’ Board of Referred Powers recommended so that both the Autry and the Southwest Museum in Mt. Washington (the City’s oldest museum), could be up and running as world-class museums. I am still committed to getting the Southwest Museum reopened as a fully accredited museum so we can continue the tradition of honoring Native American and Southwest culture started by Charles Lummis at the Mt. Washington site some 95 years ago.

Los Angeles Welcomes Bollywood Actress Mallika Sherawat !

2009-08-14T23:50:00.000-07:00

Today, it was my honor to be able to recognize Mallika Sherawat, as the first Indian star from Bollywood acknowledged by the city of Los Angeles. Ms. Sherawat's talent as a Bollywood actress has gained her recognition as the "original Bollywood bombshell" and has even garnered her a song dedication by international recording artist Yanni! She stared in India's 2004 box office hit, "Murder", and will soon hit the big screen again with Irrfan Khan of "Slumdog Millionare" in the upcoming film "Hisss." Ms. Sherawat was recognized in Council today for her work in charitable efforts, as an advocate of woman's issues, the environment and nutrition. I feel very honored to recognize her work on the eve of Indian Independence Day, when Los Angeles, one of the most diverse cities in the world celebrates the contributions of Indian Americans in the United States. Congratulations Mallika!

August 15th Community Clean Up!

2009-08-12T17:58:00.000-07:00

Take pride in your neighborhood by volunteering to help keep Los Angeles beautiful.

WHEN: August 15, 2009

TIME:
Boyle Heights: 7:30 AM - 1:00 PM
456 S. Mathews Street
Program and Roosevelt pool plaque unveiling at 12:00 Noon

Eagle Rock: 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Occidental Plaza
4430 York Blvd. (Near Eagle Rock Blvd.)
Parking on Lincoln St.

El Sereno: 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Program
begins at 8:45 AM
El Sereno Park, 4721 Klamath St.

MORE INFO:
Boyle Heights District Office - (323) 526-3059
Eagle Rock/Northeast District Office - (323) 254-5295
El Sereno District Office - (323) 266-1646

L.A Streetcar: One Step Closer!

2009-08-11T14:47:00.000-07:00

I take a lot of pride in the efforts we have made to move forward my Bringing Back Broadway initiative. Downtown Broadway’s Historic Core is home to 12 classic theaters all located within nine blocks of each other. My vision to incorporate a Streetcar within the area is starting to come to fruition and will bring much needed transportation to the Downtown corridor. The Streetcar is projected to begin operating in 2014 and would connect South Park, Bunker Hill and the Historic Core. The newly launched website of the Los Angeles Streetcar, Inc., is currently accepting opinions about the Streetcar project. Let them know what you think.

Last week, I did a live interview on KPCC’s AirTalk with Larry Mantle, regarding Bringing Back Broadway and the Streetcar. During the show I took calls from listeners, which I enjoyed quite a bit. Listen HERE!

Photo Credit: Eric Richardson for BlogDowntown

Evergreen Child Care Center Opens!

2009-08-10T18:05:00.000-07:00

It was my pleasure today to celebrate the grand opening of the Evergreen Child Care Center in Boyle Heights and to commemorate the official dedication of the Willy Corona Multipurpose Room. Willy Corona was a great man who is sorely missed in the community. When I was a young kid playing baseball at Evergreen Park, Willy motivated me to do well in sports, as well as life. He was a great coach to me and countless other kids in the community. When I became Councilmember, lots of parents and community members told me about the importance and need for the Evergreen Child Care Center. At the time, the area was little more than a pile of dirt. The Evergreen Child Care Center had not been built, even though it was approved and planned. I worked with the Department of Recreation and Parks and the Bureau of Engineering and secured about $3.13 million in funding. After the state froze funding because of the budget shortfall, I worked with our departments to find the additional funding needed to complete this worthwhile project, which will benefit the children in our community for years to come. And there is nothing more fitting than to see Willy Corona’s name in a roomful of children who will be inspired by his work in the community.

R.O.C.K. Teen Center Opens Eagle Rock Coffee House

2009-08-08T16:41:00.000-07:00

A couple of people have asked me on Facebook about the new Eagle Rock coffee house, “Eagles Landing Coffee House”. Here’s the address:

4808 Townsend Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90041
(323) 257-6102

The great thing about Eagles Landing Coffee House is that it is part of The R.O.C.K Teen Center, which is located right next door. R.O.C.K stands for “Reach Our Community Kids” and was opened in 2001. The non-profit center offers after-school activities, college resources, guidance, mentorship, volunteer opportunities and a safe space for local teenagers. It’s just blocks away from Eagle Rock High School and just two miles from Franklin High School, Burbank Middle School and Irving Middle School. I was there for the coffee house’s grand opening and I wish them much success. Go buy their coffee. It’s delicious and 50 percent of their sales go directly to R.O.C.K.

National Night Out – America’s Night Out Against Crime

2009-08-04T11:55:00.000-07:00

Tonight is National Night Out – America’s Night Out Against Crime.
NATIONAL NIGHT OUT is designed to:

Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness;
Generate support for, and participation in, local anticrime programs;
Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and
Send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

National Night Out is a great opportunity for all of us to show our solidarity with law enforcement and to strengthen our commitment to peace in our neighborhoods.

There are three events happening in our District and I encourage you to come out, bring your families and get to know your neighbors and community.

Boyle Heights: 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
March from Dolores Mission: 170 S. Gless St.
to
Hollenbeck Police Station: 2111 E. First St. (1st & Chicago)
Join the march or meet us at the station at 6:30 p.m.

Eagle Rock: 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Parking Lot of Target, Upper Level
(East side of Eagle Rock Plaza)
2626 Colorado Boulevard

Downtown: 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
El Pueblo Historical Monument (Olvera Street)
125 Paseo de la Plaza
Featuring live bands: “The Remods” and “Carlos Guitarlos”

SLOs Fast to the Task in Northeast L.A.

2009-08-02T12:24:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday, I joined community members and LAPD officers at the LAPD Northeast Senior Lead Officer Summit that took place at the Dodger Stadium Club. About 100 people attended from all sections of the Northeast. I am thankful that Senior Lead Officers Mark Allen from Highland Park, Craig Orange from Eagle Rock, Nina Perciado from Highland Park/Mt. Washington and Sgt. Danny Roman provide such outstanding service to Council District 14. These SLOs really do put a face to the department. Their efforts in creating a trusting and collaborative environment in fighting crime make us all safer. Northeast Division Commanding Officer, Captain Bill Murphy provided a great overview of the department and his commitment to public safety is demonstrated in his leadership.
[Pictured L-R: Sgt. Danny Roman, Councilmember Ed Reyes, Capt. William Murphy and me]

Let’s Tighten State Regulation of Medical Marijuana While Ending Raids

2009-08-01T12:21:00.000-07:00

Recently, I introduced a resolution that the City of Los Angeles include in its 2009-2010 State Legislative Program sponsorship of legislation that would clarify the intent of the Compassionate Use Act of 1996 (Prop.215), which allows qualified medical patients to use marijuana as part of a treatment regimen approved by a physician. While I support the spirit of Prop. 215 and believe that those who have a true medical need should have access to medical marijuana, the state needs to further define needs, distribution and use criteria to better regulate access to medical marijuana. I also introduced a city resolution that the City of Los Angeles support California Senate Joint Resolution (SJR) 14, introduced in June by State Senator Mark Leno, which calls on the federal government to end raids on medical marijuana dispensaries in states such as California where voters have approved its use. The bill also urges the U.S. Congress to develop a comprehensive federal medical marijuana policy that ensures safe and legal access for any eligible patient who would benefit from this treatment. I believe that both these resolutions go hand in hand and strike a fair balance between regulation and enforcement issues in states with medical marijuana policies.

Dogs (and Cats) Have Their Day at the 4th Annual Dogs Day of Summer @ Hermon Park

2009-07-22T12:46:00.000-07:00

This year, I was happy to help sponsor the 4th Annual “Dog Days of Summer” put together by Friends of Hermon Dog Park and the Arroyo Seco Neighborhood Council, with the participation of the L.A. Dept. of Animal Services, L.A. County Animal Control Services and the Pasadena Humane Society. I attended the event with my wife, Richelle, and our three kids. Our youngest, Simón, wanted to greet every dog that crossed his path! This was a wonderful, animal-friendly event promoting quality pet care, free and low cost vaccinations, as well as on-site pet-adoptions. Throughout the year, hundreds of dogs and cats are in need of loving homes. Thankfully, there are ways to help. Adopting a pet can be a very rewarding experience for the entire family. If you are interested, check out the links provided! And remember, if you already have a pet, be sure they have enough shade and water throughout this very hot summer.

Working to Make El Pueblo Self-Sufficient

2009-07-21T12:41:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday, as Chair of the Audits & Government Efficiency Committee, I presided over a meeting to discuss a recent audit by the Controller’s office on ways to raise revenue for the El Pueblo Historical Monument (aka Olvera Street or La Placita). In the meeting, I pointed out that before the audit was published, the City had already began the process of making El Pueblo one of the City’s few self-sufficient departments. I had earlier urged El Pueblo’s general manager to begin negotiations with the 61 merchants who currently have no lease agreements in order to bring rents more inline with market rate leases, which was one of the money generating ideas also pointed out in the audit. I also asked El Pueblo’s general manager to develop a master plan to create a vision for El Pueblo to maximize its financial and cultural potential for years to come. We must also make sure that we’re treating the merchants fairly while providing them quality service worthy of the birthplace of Los Angeles.

Kids Enjoy Summer Night Lights 2009

2009-07-14T12:29:00.000-07:00

As we kick-off the second year of the highly successful Summer Night Lights (SNL) program, I want to encourage our young people and their families to become involved and take advantage of the excellent programs being offered. As part of an effort to protect our young people from gangs and gang violence, 16 parks within Los Angeles, including Ramon Garcia and Ramona Gardens parks in Boyle Heights, are now open and fully staffed from 7 p.m. to Midnight, Wednesday through Saturday, until September 7^th.

Participating Parks:

Baldwin Village/ Southwest – Jim Gilliam Park
Southwest II – Denker Park
Boyle Heights/ Hollenbeck – Ramon Garcia Park
Northeast – Cypress Park
Northeast – Glassell Park
Florence-Graham/ 77^th Division – Mount Carmel Park
77^th Division II – Harvard Park
Newton – Ross Snyder Park
Pacoima/ Foothill – Hubert Humphrey Park
Panorama City – Sepulveda Park
Ramona Gardens/ Hollenbeck – Ramona Gardens Recreation Center
Watts/Southeast – Nickerson Gardens Housing Development
Watts/Southeast – Jordan Downs Housing Development
Watts/Southeast – Imperial Courts Housing Development
Rampart – Edward R. Roybal Learning Center
Hollywood – Lemon Grove Park

Let’s work together to make sure our communities and families are safe.

NYTIMES Article.

Picture Credit: Michal Czerwonka for The New York Times

Northeast Los Angeles Community Leaders Breakfast

2009-07-13T13:01:00.000-07:00

Last Friday we kicked off our community stakeholders and leaders meeting in the Northeast at the 20th Century Women’s Club with an amazing morning of discussion. Joined by several of the Northeast non-profits, community leaders and stakeholders I was happy to share information on what I have been doing in the City Council and throughout the area.
Some of the issues covered:

Medical Marijuana
After meeting with several residents from the Northeast concerned over the growing number of marijuana dispensaries in the community, I introduced a motion to remove the hardship exemption clause that allowed these dispensaries to open using a loophole in the current law. I also requested that hardship exemption cases be heard immediately in the City’s Planning & Land Use Management Committee (PLUM). So far, we have denied three Eagle Rock hardship exemption applications in City Council and have recommended in PLUM that four others from Eagle Rock be denied. Those will be heard today in City Council.

Southwest Museum
I recently asked the Board of Referred Powers to link any lease agreement with the Autry National Center for their proposed Griffith Park expansion to a binding legal document, which would commit them to restore and reopen the Southwest Museum. I also asked that the Autry prepare a Master Plan and discuss exhibit space.
The Autry has made significant upgrades at the Southwest, about $7 million. They’ve been great stewards of the 250,000 artifacts under their care since merging with the Southwest. However, after six years, the Northeast community and the thousands of Los Angeles residents who love the Southwest deserve a firm commitment.

Northeast Surveillance Cameras
To aid with public safety concerns in our community, as well as provide assistance to LAPD, the Security Surveillance Cameras in Eagle Rock and Highland Park have been installed and are operable.

Wiota Circle – Welcoming Monument
Just a few weeks ago, the Eagle Rock Community celebrated the completion of the first Welcome to Eagle Rock Monument at Wiota Circle. It was my pleasure to join with Eagle Rock activists and community members for the unveiling of an Eagle Rock monument shaped like the famed “Eagle Rock” the town is named after.

AT&T Mural
Since, I took office many of you bought it to my attention, the need to restore the “History of Highland Park” Mural. My office has continued to work with AT&T officials. In January of this year, we received good news. AT&T has agreed to fund the entire restoration and pay for ongoing maintenance costs.

Los Angeles Facing $530 Million Budget Deficit
City Cutbacks

Good News: Despite heavy budget cuts, we were able to secure most of the funding for Neighborhood Councils, which I believe are great liaisons and first in making sure issues within communities are taken care of.

311 Services Update: 311 will remain a 24hour operation, a great tool for information on city services.
Sidewalk repair will not install new speed bumps for the time being, and will repair streets with asphalt not concrete.
City can no longer waive fees or cover the full costs for local community events and street closures. However we are looking to find ways to remedy the situation at the city level. CD14 staff will continue to assist in any way possible.

Thank you to everyone that attended, I look forward in working with you all in improving the services to the Northeast community! And I look forward to the upcoming El Sereno and Boyle Heights Community Leaders Breakfasts!

For more info please call Northeast office: 323-254-5295

For Northeast Breakfast Pictures, Click HERE

Enjoying family and history at El Sereno Parade, Concert and Fireworks Show

2009-07-07T13:20:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, we celebrated Independence Day El Sereno style. The El Sereno Independence Day parade, which marked the 50th Anniversary of the parade, was put on by the El Sereno Bicentennial Committee and was a lot of fun. I was happy to participate, and I was very glad to see that so many families came out to our 2nd annual El Sereno Concert and Fireworks show at El Sereno Park. When I was elected to the City Council, I wanted to bring the fireworks show back to our communities (El Sereno had gone 25 years without one) and it was great to see the thousands who came out for this event yesterday. Louie Moreno from Sports Rap-Up (who was my baseball coach in high school), came out to MC and everyone loved the bands that provided the kind of music that got people out of their seats and onto the dance floor. Thank you so much to all of our entertainers! And a big thank you to the CD14 staff who worked so hard to make sure everything ran smooth. These festivities mean a great deal to me. They are fun, free, and most importantly, safe. I hope you all had a great time!

STEM-UP will Allow Kids to Rise Up to a Brighter Future

2009-07-07T13:05:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I attended a landmark event at Hollenbeck Middle School to promote the launching of STEM-UP – an effort to get more students involved in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math fields. HENAAC is working with the Department of Defense and the United States Army Corps of Engineers in launching this groundbreaking program in Boyle Heights. I joined HENAAC CEO Ray Mellado, Congressmember Lucille Roybal-Allard, LAUSD President Monica Garcia, Cal State L.A. College of Engineering, Computer Science and Technology Dean Keith Moo-Young and others for what truly will be a pivotal moment in the education of children on the Eastside. HENAAC estimates that by 2025, the country will need more than 11 million workers in STEM fields, and Latinos are well below other groups when it comes to pursuing these high-paying careers. With the new Mendez Learning Center in Boyle Heights focusing on Math-Science and Engineering-Technology and the STEM-UP campaign going full force, we will truly be making dreams come true for countless children and their families.
You can read all about it HERE.

Asking Autry to Make Promise to Open Southwest Museum Official

2009-07-07T12:54:00.000-07:00

Last week I asked a City Board considering an expansion project for the Autry Museum’s Griffith Park location to attach to the project’s lease a legally binding agreement to reopen the Southwest Museum in Mt. Washington. The Autry bought the Southwest Museum in 2003, along with its collection of 250,000 mostly Native American artifacts. They’ve instituted a number of upgrades at the Southwest Museum, including $7.5 million in improvements. In 2007, The Autry sent me an agreement memo, laying out their intentions to restore and reopen the museum in Mt. Washington, which is the City’s oldest. After working together with the Southwest Society, which was formed to monitor the Autry’s progress with the Southwest Museum, I decided to ask members of the Board of Referred Powers, chaired by Councilmember Janice Hahn, to require the Autry to make that agreement a legally binding document. The board, consisting of Councilmembers Hahn, Reyes, Cardenas, Rosendahl and Parks, voted unanimously to support my action, while giving the Autry and me a month to work out an agreement.

Taking a Ride on the Gold Line

2009-07-03T12:35:00.000-07:00

Today, I joined U.S Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood, Congressmembers Lucille Roybal-Allard and Grace Napolitano, LA County Supervisor Gloria Molina and Metro CEO Art Leahy on a tour of the Gold Line Eastside Extension to make sure everything is in place before it opens to the public. It was a smooth ride from Downtown Los Angeles, through Boyle Heights and East L.A. This new rail line will provide much needed transportation from the Eastside to Downtown, carrying riders over the historic First Street Bridge. This is the first time in more than 50 years that light rail has returned to the Eastside and it’s important that everything is in working order and that all safety precautions are being taken. While the Gold Line is of huge importance, we also want to make sure that people are safe and that all precautions are being adhered too. Please let your family and neighbors know about proper safety rules and enjoy the soon-to-open Gold Line. If you use Google maps to get around, Google Transit launched its Los Angeles version this weekend – be sure to check it out! Curbed LA had a good post on it.

El Sereno Community Gets Their Day in the Spotlight

2009-06-30T12:26:00.000-07:00

El Sereno is one of the oldest communities in Los Angeles, and I am proud to represent this great community. With a rich history that dates back to 1771, it was definitely time El Sereno was recognized for its proud families, community advocacy and leadership. In Council, I introduced a resolution that declared June 30th be recognized as “El Sereno Day.” I was joined by Honorary El Sereno Mayor Eddie Santillan, his father, Lou Santillan, members of the El Sereno Bicentennial Committee and community members at the Resolution Ceremony in Council Chambers, which was followed by lunch reception. Eddie and Lou exemplify El Sereno’s reputation as a community where sons and daughters return to their hometown to raise their families and help out the community.
In honor of the history of El Sereno, the Valley Bridge project, which should be fully operational by 2010, will include tile and limestone artwork highlighting the community’s history. Congratulations El Sereno!

New Memories Coming Soon to Hollenbeck Lake Bridge

2009-06-28T12:17:00.000-07:00

It’s been more than 5 years since the Hollenbeck Park Bridge, which floats on the park’s lake, was closed to the public due to safety concerns. It has been a high priority of mine since taking office to make sure that we received the funding necessary to restore the bridge and return it to its former glory. For decades the bridge was a destination spot for thousands upon thousands of visitors, many of whom used the bridge’s picturesque view for wedding and quinceanera photos (including my wife Richelle and me for our wedding photos 10 years ago). I’m happy that the bridge is back in business. At a ribbon-cutting ceremony, I thanked our partners at Rec and Parks and the Bureau of Engineering who finished this painstaking process early and nearly $100,000 under budget. It was originally budgeted for $450,000. Also, an additional $150,000 in park improvements that I identified are well under way, witness by all the new trees that have been planted at the park. When it’s all said and done, we’ll have an improved landscape, walkway and a new fitness zone, complete with exercise equipment to promote healthy living in Boyle Heights. After we reopened the bridge, we kicked off our Pre-Independence Day festivities with a free fireworks show for the community! More than 6,000 people came to enjoy the show and live music. Thank you to everyone who came and a big thank you to our CD 14 staff! Great job! Here are a few pics!

Dream Act Students Dare to Dream

2009-06-24T14:44:00.001-07:00

I want to extend a sincere thank you to the young men and women who put together the Dream Act Mock Graduation at the lawn of City Hall yesterday. The Dream Team coalition did a fantastic job in getting the word out and I was honored to have been the keynote speaker.

The Federal Dream Act would provide a pathway to citizenship to many of our brightest minds. Many undocumented students earn top marks in their classes, are in the top percentile within their high schools and many have aspirations to go on to college. They could be doctors, teachers, lawyers, or urban planners, but are in limbo within our immigration system.
I would encourage everyone to sign the petition to pass the DREAM ACT and contact your Members of Congress & U.S Senate today.

FREE 4th of July Celebrations in Boyle Heights and El Sereno!

2009-06-24T14:39:00.000-07:00

My family and staff would like to invite you and yours to join our 4th of July Celebrations!

Two great events have been planned. One in Boyle Heights and one in El Sereno. We will celebrate the birth of our nation and the spirit of our community.

There will be live entertainment and lots of great food!
And most importantly, both events are FREE!

I hope to see you there!

The 3rd Annual Boyle Heights Concert and Fireworks Show
Sunday, June 28th, 2009
Hollenbeck Park
415 S. St. Louis
Los Angeles, CA 90033
4pm – 9pm
Live Entertainment by: Mariachi Olimpico, Domingo Siete, Impact Top 40 Band

The 2nd Annual El Sereno Concert and Fireworks Show
Sunday, July 5th, 2009
El Sereno Park
4721 Klamath Place
Los Angeles, CA 90032
4pm – 9pm
Live Entertainment by: Chico Band, Domingo Siete, Impact Top 40 Band

$75,000 Reward for Info on Double Homicide

2009-06-24T14:23:00.000-07:00

COMMUNITY ALERT

Lots of things have happened since my last blog post.

Most urgently, I want to encourage anyone with information regarding the brutal murders of Felipe Villareal (42) and Rafael Padilla (57) to please come forward and talk to the Hollenbeck Police.
These two hard working family men were gruesomely shot and killed in the community of Boyle Heights on June 15th at 3:00am on the 3400 block of 1st St.

We need the public to come forward and help.

I introduced a motion in Council this past week for a $75,000 reward for any information that can help detectives solve this double homicide.
Your identity can be kept anonymous.

We need to protect our community, the health and safety of local residents; and we need to make sure our communities are not terrorized by random acts of violence that separate families.

Please do the right thing if you have any information.
Contact: Detective A. Negrete (323) 526-3679 or Officer R. Chavarria (323) 526-3006 or the Hollenbeck Watch Commander (323)266-5964

MORE INFO

Remembering Those Who Paid With Their Lives to Protect our Freedoms

2009-05-27T19:11:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, I joined members of the East Los Angeles Veterans Association to kick off a 24-hour vigil at the Mexican American All Wars Memorial in Cinco Puntos (Five Points) in Boyle Heights. On Memorial Day, that vigil turned into a celebration and a day of remembrance for the men and woman who fought and died for our country, as well as those who served and continue to serve in our armed forces. Their sacrifices and the sacrifices of their families mean a great deal to our community. We paid tribute to the diversity of our Eastside community, which over the years has included Latinos, Japanese, Jews, African Americans and many others. All who served our country with honor, including many who paid the ultimate price. I was honored to stand guard Sunday and privileged to have the opportunity to address the many people in attendance Monday. A big thank you to everyone involved, especially the young men and young women in the JROTC program from Garfield, Roosevelt and Lincoln High schools who proudly presented the Colors. And a big congratulations goes out to Daniel Hernandez, Executive Director of the Hollenbeck Youth Center who shared with us his courageous and amazing story as a young Marine in Vietnam. Daniel only recently found out he had been recognized by the United States for his valor and will soon be receiving the Silver Star for his actions. Congratulations Dan! And a big thank you to all our vets and their families.

Fiesta Shalom in Boyle Heights

2009-05-26T20:33:00.000-07:00

Attending Fiesta Shalom was like stepping back in time in Boyle Heights’ history – Jewish and Latino people intermingling again in the neighborhood that both groups had a major hand in shaping. For me, raised in Boyle Heights, it was like welcoming an old friend home again. I was happy to work with the Israeli Consulate to organize the event. The line to get into the famous Breed Street Shul, which at one point was reportedly the largest synagogue west of the Mississippi, was long and full of people from both cultures all day long. The food, music, art and cultural sharing was fantastic. About 5,000 people attended (we expected 1,000), with a roughly 50/50 split between Jewish and Latino people. At the end of the festival when the Mexican and the Jewish dancers performed together, people in the audience joined in and began to dance. It was what one person called in Hebrew “a ‘Mitzvah’ - a good deed filled with joy.” And that is exactly what Fiesta Shalom was: a good deed filled with joy. I hope we can do it again. I’d like to thank all who helped put this together, including my Boyle Heights staff, who worked hard to make this happen!

Glad to help GLAD

2009-05-26T20:10:00.000-07:00

I joined about 200 people at the House of Blues last week for a fundraiser for the Greater Los Angeles Agency on Deafness. Recently, I submitted a grant application for $275,000 on their behalf requesting community redevelopment block grant funds for them, which got approved. The money will be used to help GLAD demolish a building that has hindered their plans to expand much needed services at their Eagle Rock facility. GLAD provides a variety of services to the deaf and hard of hearing community, such as social services and health education, interpreter referral services, senior low-income housing, employment development and programs for at-risk youth. Thank you GLAD for the quality work you are doing on behalf of the deaf and hard of hearing community, as well as the Northeast community you call home.

Honoring Workers Whose Day Begins in Darkness

2009-05-13T17:03:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure this week to attend an early morning retirement celebration for Frank Rubio who was retiring after 31 years of faithful service at our highly valued and appreciated Bureau of Sanitation. The reception started bright and early (5:45 a.m.), and the atmosphere was alive and energetic. About 100 co-workers cheered on their friend and colleague, Mr. Rubio, as I presented him with a retirement certificate in honor of his service to our City. Immediately after the ceremony was over, a fleet of trucks rolled out in unison to service our City. It was a great site to see. We often don’t see the faces behind the work. But these men and women are up and working before first light doing a great job to keep our neighborhoods clean. Thank you to them and congratulations again to Mr. Frank Rubio.

A Smooth Ride Into Downtown Los Angeles

2009-05-11T14:06:00.000-07:00

Rode my bike to El Pueblo today for our Bike to Work Week Kick-Off ceremony. Fortunately, my home in Boyle Heights is only a couple of miles away so it was very convenient and with overcast skies this morning, the weather was really nice. I pointed out to folks at the event that riding our bikes allows us to improve both our personal health and the health of our environment, as we work to reduce calories and green house gases. I was joined by Metro CEO Art Leahy and other officials. Metro and our Department of Transportation did a fantastic job putting this together. There’ll be several events throughout the week, including Blessing of the Bikes tomorrow, free ridership on Metro buses and trains on Thursday for bike riders and Ride to School Day on Friday, which will allow our kids to get involved. For motorists, please take into consideration that bicyclists have the same rights and obligations as any other vehicle. Make sure there is at least three feet of space between your car and a bicyclist when passing and avoid honking your horn if possible. Now, let’s all try to get out of our cars this week and onto our bikes. It’s a lot of fun.

A Garden of Healthy Knowledge at Boyle Heights’ Farm

2009-05-07T06:24:00.000-07:00

This weekend I was fortunate enough to spend some time with the great folks at Proyecto Jardin in Boyle Heights to celebrate the launch of their new Community Supported Agriculture program. The CSA program helps develop a relationship between local farmers and those who eat the food they produce. This CSA program helps ensure that local residents get a weekly box of fresh produce. I spent part of the day taking a tour of the community garden and eating the delicious nopales that had been grown at the garden by community members. Proyecto Jardin also provided workshops on nutrition, cooking and physical fitness. I even had the opportunity to plant a lavender tree to keep the garden growing. We need to see more efforts like this in our communities. In fact, I’m working on bringing a farmers’ market to Boyle Heights some time in the near future. I want to thank Irene Pena and all the good people at Proyecto Jardin for bringing this great program to our residents and empowering our community to eat well and live healthier lives.

Unprecedented Progress for Bringing Back Broadway

2009-05-04T13:36:00.000-07:00

It’s hard to believe that a little over a year ago, I launched the Bringing Back Broadway Initiative, a collective public/private effort to revitalize the Historic Broadway Corridor, including renovating historic theaters, reactivating unused upper-floor space and returning the beloved streetcar to Downtown Los Angeles. As this Downtown News Editorial points out, we’ve made remarkable progress so far and the participation we’ve had in our dozen committees and our public seminars has been off the charts. That commitment from those of us in the City and the private sector, as well as the Downtown community, will be the catalyst to our success. If we keep doing what we’re doing, the Broadway Historic Corridor will reclaim its past glory as one of Los Angeles’ premier destination spots, where more people will live, work and enjoy a vibrant and exciting community both day and night. Here's to continued success on this worthwhile effort!

Working to Make New High School a Success

2009-05-01T14:40:00.000-07:00

Here’s a piece I wrote in Eastern Group Publications about the soon-to-open Mendez Learning Center (aka East L.A. High #1). When I was on the LAUSD school board I worked to get the construction of this school back on track and lobbied for the academic focus to be on math/science. I’m happy to say that the campus, located at 1st Street and Mission Road, will have two schools, one focusing on math/science, the other on technology/engineering. All of us involved have a big challenge ahead of us to make sure the two schools are ready to open this fall.

Enjoying the View Below for the Soon-to-Open Metro Eastside Extension

2009-04-28T09:50:00.000-07:00

This morning, my staff and I received a very informative tour of the Metro Gold Line Eastside Extension, set to open sometime this year. We put on our hard hats, safety goggles and all the rest and went below ground where work is nearing completion. After seeing the tunnel, some of the beautiful artwork and then ascending the stairs at Mariachi Plaza, it was very easy for me to imagine hundreds of people enjoying that view and this world-class transportation system, which is going to be real catalyst for the Boyle Heights area. I want to thank Metro’s Dennis Mori, the Project Manager for the extension, Yvette Rapose, Regional Communications Programs Manager and Fred Smith, Construction Manager, for giving us the tour (as well as James Brown, who made sure we were properly suited up to keep us safe). Can’t wait for the opening!

Taking a Solar Step in the Right Direction

2009-04-27T23:50:00.000-07:00

Today, I celebrated with Mayor Villaraigosa, Metro CEO Arthur Leahy and others, at a ribbon cutting for the largest solar panel installation in Los Angeles and the largest solar transit facility in the country. Metro’s Support Service Center in downtown is its central maintenance facility for its fleet of buses and the 6,720 individual new solar panels will generate 1.2 megawatt, or 1.200 kilowatts of renewable, emission-free power. The new energy bill for the facility will be roughly half ($550,000 vs. $1.1 million), which should mean the panels will pay for themselves in about 10 years. The most important aspect of this partnership between Metro, Chevron Energy Solutions and other supporters, is the new solar panels are expected to reduce carbon emissions by more than 3,700 metric tons. I spoke today about the need to do more of these types of public/private partnerships and that the fight to end global warming will take millions of steps by countless policy makers, municipalities and states in an array of nations, but that every great effort always begins with one step. And today, Los Angeles took a very important step.

Inspirational Kids Graduating from Arts School

2009-04-25T07:02:00.000-07:00

I joined up this week with graduating students of the 34 118 Performing Arts Academy (named after the longitude/latitude of Boyle Heights), located on the campus of Roosevelt High School . I talked to the kids about the power they have pursuing a life in art - whether it’s through music, painting or photography, or whatever discipline, that theirs is not a passive pursuit - that great art can inspire change. We honored some of the outstanding students and teachers (they’re ALL outstanding), and I invited these young artists to be part of my effort to create an Arts District in Boyle Heights, which I began after I was inspired by the growing art scene in the neighborhood.

Warning Parents and Kids about the Dangers of Inhalant Abuse

2009-04-13T21:44:00.000-07:00

I was joined today by LAPD, City Attorney School Safety Prosecutor Veronica De Alba, the Hollenbeck Youth Explorers and the Team Community Police Advisory Board to talk about the dangers of Inhalant Abuse. This highly dangerous behavior, where abusers, mostly young kids, sniff Nitrous Oxide and other vapors and chemicals, can cause death, brain and other permanent organ damage, as well as addiction. Many of the inhalants used can be found in common household products. We also urged for the passage of AB 1015, a bill that would make it illegal for minors to purchase Nitrous Oxide.

A Night of Giving Support to the Homeless

2009-04-10T20:44:00.000-07:00

Father Scott Santarosa from Dolores Mission invited people to come spend a night with the homeless population Thursday and I was deeply moved by the stories of people made homeless by a weakened economy, as well as the 100 or so individuals who came out to support them. Dressed in pajamas and wrapped in blankets, men, women, boys and girls, listened to the testimonials given by people who lost their homes to rising mortgages and others who were having difficulty putting food on the table. Amongst a sea of lit candles, people prayed for one another and provided comfort to the homeless men that find shelter at Dolores Mission every night. The vigil concluded with celebratory songs and as the lights went out scores of people – homeless or not – slept on the church grounds in solidarity.

Making 4th Street Bridge Safer for All

2009-04-10T20:34:00.000-07:00

I scheduled an on-site meeting with the Bureau of Engineers about the ongoing earthquake retrofitting of the 4th Street Bridge in Boyle Heights. BOE City Engineer Gary Lee Moore assured me that the project will be finished by November. And my office will continue to monitor the project and we’ll be working to getting it done as quickly and efficiently as possible. Once the main work is done, we’re going to cleanup the bridge and add a graffiti-proof finish and then we’re going to get the residents opinion on what kind of pocket park they would like to see put under the bridge. It’s going to be a beautiful sight to behold once it’s finish. I want to thank the Boyle Heights community for their patience. I promise you, it will be well worth the wait.

Working to End Patient Dumping Downtown

2009-04-10T20:24:00.000-07:00

I joined City Attorney Rocky Delgadillo at a press conference on the rooftop of the Union Rescue Mission on Wednesday to announce a settlement with a hospital that had been patient dumping mentally ill people along skid row. It’s quite unbelievable to think that an institution that is supposed to look after the well being of its patients would even think of doing that. It’s disgusting and despicable behavior. It angers me because we’re talking about an extremely vulnerable population. And let’s be honest: our mental health care in this country is not what it should be. But first and foremost, like everybody else, people with mental illness deserve to be treated with respect and dignity. In short, they need to be treated like human beings. I applaud the City Attorney for the work he and his office have been doing on this issue and I hope this settlement (which includes fines and restrictions) will finally serve notice to other institutions: Do not patient dump in downtown Los Angeles or we will come after you.

Every One Counts in Los Angeles

2009-04-10T20:16:00.000-07:00

I attended two events recently to promote the 2010 U.S. Census and the importance for all Angelenos to participate in this vital process. In the last census in 2000, it’s estimated that Los Angeles was undercounted by nearly 77,000 people, costing our city more than $200 million in federal dollars over the decade since. The sad irony is the people who would have benefited the most from the lost funding in health, education and emergency services, are the ones who were the most undercounted: children from low-income families, people of color, immigrants and the homeless. But there’s hope. The Mayor’s office is taking a proactive role in ensuring that we are not undercounted this time around. On Monday, I joined with other City leaders and about 500 enthusiastic Census workers who were beginning their pre-Census preparation of address checking known residents. Please spread the word that the information gathered is solely for Census data, which helps get those much needed federal dollars and to establish congressional representation. In these lean economic times, we simply cannot afford to lose another $200 million.

Promise to Work on Behalf of All Angelenos on Metro Board

2009-03-27T07:03:00.000-07:00

Yesterday morning Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa appointed me and Rita Robinson to the Metro Board of Directors, replacing outgoing directors, City Councilmember Bernard Parks and David Fleming. I want to thank my colleague Bernard Parks for doing such an outstanding job, and I know that Ms. Robinson is going to bring excellent hands-on transportation experience to the board. As for myself, I believe that any transportation plans we implement as a government body must be linked to smart growth and multimodal approaches that really take into consideration our region’s “big picture.” As a kid, growing up in a low-income family in Boyle Heights, I, along with family members depended on the area's public transportation. I have logged many miles and countless hours on the City’s buses and I promise to always keep in mind how our actions as a Board affect other people, kids, seniors, families, those who are in the same situation I once was – people who have no choice but to use our public transportation. So it’s very important to me that you know, the residents of Los Angeles -- that I will work on your behalf -- whether you live in the Valley, South L.A. or East L.A., I will do my absolute best to make sure that your interests are protected.

Riding on the Metro

2009-03-23T19:42:00.000-07:00

Decided to take the bus to work today. It’s pretty convenient. I live very close to the 68 bus line, which passes through Cesar Chavez Avenue near my home in Boyle Heights. With stops just 10 minutes apart, the bus dropped me off across the street in front of City Hall on Spring Street in good time. I encourage all my constituents to take public transit whenever they can.

Celebrating Equal Rights Victory with Filipino Veterans and their Families

2009-03-23T19:19:00.000-07:00

I gathered Saturday with friends in Eagle Rock to celebrate the tremendous victory our WWII Filipino veterans recently won to receive restitution for veterans’ benefits stripped away by Congress back in 1946 under the Rescission Act. With the recently signed stimulus bill, President Obama set aside $198 million for the more than 15,000 Filipino veterans living in the U.S. and abroad. Under the plan, Filipino veterans who are U.S. citizens will receive a one-time payment of $15,000, while non-U.S. citizens will receive $9,000. The President signed the legislation almost 63 years to the day of the Rescission Act and I congratulated our veterans on Saturday for displaying the same tenacity and courage they exhibited on the battlefield in this fight for equal rights. They never, ever gave up and they never lost hope. While it’s sad that so few of the more than 260,000 Filipinos who were called to arms by President Roosevelt are still alive to receive the payments, it is extremely important for the legacy of these veterans, who at the end of the day, just wanted to be treated like all other U.S. veterans. And veterans will tell you that on the battlefield there are no racial distinctions and there are no social or economic differences: there are just soldiers. So, this was a big victory for all U.S. veterans. Congratulations to all and God Bless America.

Obama Holds Court in Miguel Contreras High School Gym

2009-03-19T21:13:00.000-07:00

I was fortunate enough to see President Obama speak for the second time in a week and I was struck by the historic nature of his appearance this afternoon at Miguel Contreras Learning Complex. Today we had an African-American President speaking at a high school named after a great Latino leader. Amazing. We truly have come a long way as a nation. And what a speaker the President is. He combines an everyman ease with a keen intellect and sharp sense of humor. Today, he talked about a number of issues and deflected criticism that his administration is focusing on too many problems at once by saying something to the effect of You don’t get to put off dealing with multiple problems at home (i.e. mortgage, job loss), why should I? He followed that up by saying: “I did not run for president to pass on problems for the next generation but to solve problems for the next generation and the next president.” He was very honest in his assessment of the challenges we’re facing regarding national debt, healthcare and education and how we’re going to have to make some real sacrifices if we’re going to come out of this on top.

Drawing Inspiration in D.C. from President Obama

2009-03-13T11:34:00.000-07:00

During my trip to Washington D.C. this week to lobby for stimulus funds and jobs in education, transportation and public safety for Angelenos, I was fortunate enough to hear Barack Obama make his first major speech about education since becoming president. I had a great view as the President addressed the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and I was inspired as President Obama asked all Americans, Democrats and Republicans, to put our differences aside so we can give our children the kind of education they need to compete in the 21st Century. The president was particularly focused on doing all we can do to make improvements in math and science, a concept I’ve been lobbying for since my days on the Board of Education. The soon to open Mendez Learning Center in Boyle Heights will have a focus on math, science, technology and engineering. I’m hoping that those of us working on preparing that school to open will draw inspiration from the President’s words and do all that we can to help those incoming students excel at the highest level possible.

Councilmember Huizar Congratulates Voters for Passing Measure A

2009-03-05T18:57:00.000-08:00

I want to take a moment to thank Los Angeles voters for passing Measure A, which will create an Independent Assessor position in the Los Angeles Fire Department. This position, which was first proposed by me and Councilmember Jack Weiss, will be appointed by the Fire Commission, which is civilian-run, and will help ensure that progress made in recent months in reforming the department will be consistent and sustained for years to come. By overseeing the department’s response to misconduct complaints, the Independent Assessor position will help reduce costly discrimination and sexual harassment lawsuits and put the department's focus where it belongs: on the outstanding and brave work of the men and women of the LAFD. I also want to thank the department and the fire fighters' union for showing real leadership and courage and getting behind Measure A. Their support was key in getting it done. Thanks to all.

Attacked Officers Deserve Reward Help Regardless Where Assault Occurs

2009-02-05T16:14:00.000-08:00

After LAPD Officer Anthony Razo was assaulted and shot by two teenagers outside his City Terrace home the morning of January 31, I was asked to look into the possibility of a reward motion to help apprehend his attackers. Since Razo lived outside of City limits (by mere blocks) and was not on-duty, no reward motion could be sought. This is unfair and a real disservice to the brave men and women of the Los Angeles Police Department. The very nature of their job dictates that their duties do not end simply because they are not on-duty and out of City limits. With a good number of LAPD officers living outside of City limits and many of those working dangerous gang, narcotics and vice detail, it is imperative that we change the City rules that currently do not allow for reward motions to be issued for officers killed or attacked outside of City limits while off-duty. I introduced a motion to do just that. I’m hoping it moves quickly through Council. Our officers deserve no less. In the meantime, if you have information on the shooting of Officer Razo, please call Sheriff’s Detectives at (323) 890-5500.

Happy 4707th – The Year of the Ox

2009-02-03T18:11:00.000-08:00

I had the distinct pleasure of participating, along with my wife, Richelle, and our 3 children, in the 110th Annual Golden Dragon Chinese New Year Parade and Festival on Saturday. Sponsored by the Chinese Chamber of Los Angeles, the Chinese community is celebrating the Year 4707 and the Year of the Ox. The fact that this is the 110th year they’ve held this celebration, tells you that Chinese Americans contribution and influence in our great City have been considerable and lengthy. My children, including 11-month old Simon, dressed in traditional Chinese attire. As a Mexican immigrant myself, I’m always appreciative and honored to be asked to participate in events that celebrate our cultural roots and their importance to our city. This is one of my favorite events and I look forward to it each and every year. The Chinese New Year tradition of remembering ancestors and counting our blessings are lessons that speak to all cultures. Happy New Year!

Medical Marijuana Facility Ordinance Must Not Overburden Neighborhoods

2009-02-02T16:55:00.000-08:00

During the Planning & Land Use Management Committee’s discussion of the City Attorney’s latest medical marijuana dispensary ordinance, I pressed for changes in the proposed ordinance to protect neighborhoods from high concentrations of these facilities. Not unlike other parts of the City, Eagle Rock has numerous stores within a small area, which does not seem logical or fair. My staff has worked with the Eagle Rock Neighborhood Council and encouraged them to draft a letter voicing their concerns with the City for the record. Also, I had previously checked to make sure the medical marijuana facilities that are in the area were in compliance. While I support the spirit of Proposition 215, I want to be perfectly clear: I want an ordinance with sufficient safeguards in it to allow City officials to shut down operators who are not in compliance with the basic tenants of the Compassionate Use Act of 1996. I also want assurances that the City will not permit the over-concentration of dispensaries in the same neighborhood, as well as keep them away from schools, parks and religious institutions.

Thirty Years Later, Valley Boulevard Bridge Opens

2009-02-02T14:33:00.000-08:00

One of the most important campaign promises I made when I was first running for office in 2005 was to finish the Valley Boulevard Bridge at the problematic train crossing between Eastern and Marianna Avenues in El Sereno. In 2006, funding slipped away for this vital project that had first been proposed more than 30 years ago. It looked like it might not ever get completed. Fortunately, I was able to convince the MTA to reinstate the multimillion dollar project and to get them to commit $9 million in supplemental funding, which the City matched. On Tuesday, elected officials, artists and community members joined me for the official opening of the eastbound lanes. Through the years, the long waits for residents, commuters and fire and police officials proved to be agonizing, as freight trains came by approximately 30 times per day – not to mention the blaring horns of the trains and the pollution caused by idling cars. Artwork incorporating the history of El Sereno with photos blended into beautiful ceramic tile work, as well as limestone and Byzantine Glass monuments honoring icons, such as musicians Lalo Guerrero and Eddie Cano, will be an important part of the bridge linking the San Gabriel Valley with downtown Los Angeles. When it is completed in 2010, it’ll mean a turning point for El Sereno: and something that was a source of frustration for decades will now be a source of pride. Congratulations to All!

Congratulations in Order to Barack Obama and the American People

2009-01-22T20:01:00.000-08:00

I just want to express my congratulations to Barack Obama, who was sworn in Tuesday as the 44th President of the United States of America . I had the good fortune, along with my wife, Richelle, and my three children, to attend a live broadcast held at L.A. LIVE’s Nokia Plaza. We joined Councilmembers Jan Perry and Tom Labonge, along with an estimated 5,000 people, who witnessed the swearing in on a huge screen overlooking a stage in the plaza. I have to say, as an American, I was deeply moved by the proceedings: from Aretha Franklin’s beautiful version of “My Country Tis of Thee” to President Obama’s stirring speech , calling on us Americans to “pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin the work of remaking America.” And while I want to again congratulate President Obama and his family on this momentous occasion, I also want to congratulate the American people for making history and showing the world that our ideals and our values are not just words spoken but actions taken. As Americans, we took a very big step Tuesday. And the best part is, we took it together. God Bless America.