HOLMBY NEWS
September 16, 2016

From the Holmby Westwood Property Owners Association, serving the Holmby Westwood community since 1960.

1.  USPS Mail Service – Give Your Feedback
2.  Sharing Holmby Park with Our Dogs
3.  Helicopters Over Holmby Westwood
4.  UCLA Move-In Weekend and Volunteer Day
5.  Movie Premiere – Street Closures
6.  Upcoming Community Events
7.  HWPOA Communication and Ad Policy
8.  Resident Ads
9.  HWPOA Contact Information

1.  USPS MAIL SERVICE – GIVE YOUR FEEDBACK

Does your mail arrive late?  Does your mail get delivered to your neighbor instead of to you?  Do you receive mail that doesn’t belong to you?

The Westwood Community Council has invited the USPS Director of the Brentwood Post Office to address the council on processing mail at his branch.  There have been many complaints given to Congressman Ted Lieu on problems associated with mail delivery in Holmby Westwood and surrounding communities.

Please join the council and let the Director hear your complaints.

Tuesday, Sept. 20
7:00 PM
Belmont Senior Living
10475 Wilshire (at Warner)
in the Town Hall room
Free parking on site

2.  SHARING HOLMBY PARK WITH OUR DOGS

Did you celebrate National Dog Day on August 26th?

One of the great pleasures of living near Holmby Park is that it is the perfect place to walk our dogs. Not only is it fun to enjoy the park with our animals,  but being with a dog seems to make it much easier to meet other walkers and dog owners.

It is very tempting to turn our beautiful golf course into a “dog park” letting dogs run off-leash instead of walking them on the pathways.  Everyone knows this is illegal and that penalties for doing this begin at $100. Our hard-working grounds keepers implore everyone who brings a dog to the park, no matter what its size, to keep it on its leash.

For those who would like to use a dog park, there are several located close by.  The newest one is in Beverly Hills on Foothill.

If you have extra plastic bags such as the ones used to protect newspapers, it would be appreciated if you would donate them to fill the doggy waste bag dispenser located at the south end of the park. Just push them into the box. Thanks!

Finally, we wonder if neighborhood families would be interested in participating in an Annual Dog Show which we could hold at the park. The idea is to raise a little money for park improvements while having an event for all members of the family…much like our Fourth of July celebration. If this is something you think you would enjoy, please email a note back to the HWPOA office.

The Lawn Bowling Club invites everyone to enjoy watching their biggest event of the year, “The Joslyn Tournament”.  THE DATE IS SEPTEMBER 24, 9AM TO 4 PM. Over 100 bowlers will play in a high-level competition using all 16 of the rinks.

Park Fact:  Mr. Raul Mora has been the Senior Gardner at the park since 1998.

3.  HELICOPTERS OVER HOLMBY WESTWOOD

The FAA recently released this flight map that shows helicopter traffic over Los Angeles  for 90 random days in 2015. Note the loop with Holmby Westwood in the center. These are sightseeing helicopters showing tourists the Playboy Mansion.

The Los Angeles Area Helicopter Noise Coalition lahelicopternoise.org  is pressing the FAA to enforce the helicopter restrictions on non-emergency flights, in other words to fly neighborly. This includes minimum elevation of 2000 feet (virtually none do so now), no circling, and no hovering.

We need to let the FAA know the depth and breadth of our concern about this urban blight.

Please report all helicopter disturbances that you encounter. The easiest way is with the smartphone app HeliTracker www.helitracker.org . You can also report via the FAA’s automated phone system (424) 348-4354 or on line at http://heli-noise-la.com/webtrak/

When you report by HeliTracker or Webtrak, please include your street address so that the FAA can pinpoint the problem areas, ours included.

Roy A. Meals
Holmby Westwood resident and LAAHNC board member

4.  UCLA MOVE-IN WEEKEND AND VOLUNTEER DAY

Please be aware that UCLA student “Move-In Weekend” began yesterday and continues through Sunday, Sept. 18.  The first day of classes is on Thursday, Sept. 22.

In addition, UCLA “Volunteer Day” will be held on Monday, Sept. 19.  All 7,000 or so freshman are required to participate, and will be ferried to various volunteer sites throughout the city by bus.  The numerous buses will travel north on Gayley Avenue to northbound Veteran Avenue, then east on Sunset Blvd. and enter campus via Bellagio Rd. Bus loading will take place from approximately 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. inside the campus.

5.  MOVIE PREMIERE – STREET CLOSURES

Warner Bros will be holding the Premiere of “Storks”, at 11:00 AM on Saturday, September 17, 2016 at the Regency Village Theater, located at 961 Broxton Avenue in Westwood, immediately followed by a post reception in the street on Broxton and Le Conte from 1pm-4pm. There will be various sidewalk and street closures around the area of Broxton Avenue between Weyburn Avenue and Le Conte Avenue.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding this event, feel free to contact Michelle Dennis 310- 848-1137.

6.  UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS

Coastal Cleanup Day – Saturday, Sept. 17 at various beaches, including Santa Monica Beach Pier, Tower 1550 starting at 9:00 a.m.  California Coastal Cleanup Day is the state’s largest annual volunteer event.  To find and register for a cleanup event at the beach, lake, pond, creek or river nearest you, go to Coastalcleanupday.org and view a statewide map. Find your local area, then click on the interactive icons containing all the information you’ll need.

Westwood Library Used Book Sale – Saturday, Sept. 17 starting at 10:30 AM.  Come and purchase some wonderful books for family and friends!  We have a great collection of Coffee Table books, Children Books and DVD’s.  We’ll also be selling bookplates to add to the collection of our Library books.  A great way to increase your personal library while raising money for your public library.

7.  HWPOA COMMUNICATION AND AD POLICY

Please direct all comments, questions or issues regarding the Holmby News to hwpoa@aol.com.

Ads for plumbers, housekeepers, garage sales, etc. will be posted in the weekly News. Emergency situations such as coyote sightings, lost and found pets, traffic alerts and similar situations will continue to be published during the week as received.

When placing an ad, please send to hwpoa@aol.com for the Holmby News moderator to review.  Responses to ads should be directed to the ad placer, not to HWPOA.

8.  RESIDENT ADS

NANNY SHARE AVAILABLE

I am looking for part-time work to complete a “Nanny Share” with the other family that I currently work for in Westwood (now, just afternoons starting at 2pm). I have been with this family for nearly 9 years (originally as a full-time Nanny) & now that their children are in school full-time, my mornings are free.  If you have a baby/young children, this could be the perfect situation. I can provide you with references who will tell you that I do an excellent job caring for their children: diapering, bathing, dressing, getting them ready for nap, taking them for walks, keeping them active, singing songs, playing in the park, reading to them at the library…overall, making sure their needs are met & have the best day possible.

If you are looking for someone part-time in the AM until I’d need to leave (about 1-1:30, depending on where you live), please call me & we can see if it’s a good fit.  I’m bilingual & have experience with twins.  ANA VASQUEZ: 818 521-3869

9.  HWPOA CONTACT INFORMATION

HOLMBY WESTWOOD PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.
P.O. Box 49180
Los Angeles, CA 90049
310-470-1785
Email: hwpoa@aol.com
Web site: www.holmbywestwoodpoa.org 

HOLMBY NEWS
September 9, 2016

From the Holmby Westwood Property Owners Association, serving the Holmby Westwood community since 1960.

1.  HWPOA Board Meeting
2.  Bike Lane Update
3.  UCLA Move-In Weekend
4.  LACC Fireworks Notice
5.  LAPD Crime Alert – “Apple Picking”
6.  V.A. Campus Update
7.  Movie Premiere – Street Closures
8.  HWPOA Communication and Ad Policy
9.  Resident Ads
10.  HWPOA Contact Information

1.  HWPOA BOARD MEETING

On Tuesday, September 13 at 8:00 PM, the HWPOA Board of Directors will hold its monthly meeting at Belmont Village, 10475 Wilshire Blvd. Members of the community are welcome to attend, though space is limited. Please let us know if you plan to attend.  Email Dana at hwpoa@aol.com

2.  BIKE LANE UPDATE

Thank you, Councilman Paul Koretz!

Los Angeles City Council Removes Central & Westwood Bike Lanes

On Wednesday, the Los Angeles City Council voted 12-2 to pass amendments to remove Central Ave. and Westwood Blvd. from the Bicycle Enhanced Network (BEN). This vote makes the changes official on the Mobility Plan and finalizes the long disputed transportation plan for the city.

Holmby Westwood Property Owners Association, the three other Westwood HOAs, the Westwood Neighborhood Council, and the Westwood Community Council have been working closely with Councilman Paul Koretz over several years to find an alternative to a bike lane originally proposed for Westwood Blvd. between Wellworth and Le Conte.  Such a lane was deemed dangerous for bikers, pedestrians, cars, and buses because of heavy traffic, particularly during rush hours.  There are 940 buses traversing Westwood Blvd. between Wilshire and Le Conte and 35,000 car trips daily.  Width of lanes would have to be reduced in order to accommodate a bike lane, car doors opening into the bike lane is a probability, and buses would have to cross the bike lane in order to pick-up and drop off passengers.  In other words, huge congestion would result on a street that is already heavily congested, thus compromising public safety.  The community’s alternative was Gayley Ave. only one block to the west.  The bikers, UCLA students and faculty, and some councilmembers were strongly opposed because of the direct route to UCLA from the Expo line.  Councilman Koretz led the fight through multiple city hearings and emerged victorious through great odds.

The Board of Directors is very supportive of alternative modes of transportation, particularly if traffic can be reduced by the change.  However, we do not want to compromise public safety in the process.

A big thanks to Councilman Koretz, his staff, and the Planning Dept. for their assistance in getting this passed at City Council.

Sandy Brown

3.  UCLA MOVE-IN WEEKEND

Please be aware that UCLA student “Move-In Weekend” begins this Thursday, Sept. 15 and continues through Sunday, Sept. 18.  The first day of classes is on Thursday, Sept. 22.

4.  LACC FIREWORKS NOTICE

To Neighbors of The Los Angeles Country Club:

Please be informed that on the evening of September 10, 2016 at roughly 9:40 p.m., the Los Angeles Country Club will be conducting a fireworks show lasting approximately 9 minutes to celebrate the reopening of our renovated Clubhouse. We want to ensure that you have proper notice so as not to startle anybody. We also hope that you are able to enjoy the fireworks show from your own homes. We appreciate your understanding and hope this will not be an inconvenience for you.

Thank you,
The Los Angeles Country Club Management

5.  LAPD CRIME ALERT – “APPLE PICKING”

From Officer Maria Gray:
The following crime occurred on Avondale in Brentwood:

On 08/25/16, at 1530 hours, the victim was walking and texting when a blue, 4-door vehicle (no further information) pulled up alongside her.  The passenger, a Female, Hispanic, brown hair and eyes, 25 to 30 years old, 150 lbs, punched the victim in the face repeatedly and stole the victim’s phone, MP3 player, purse/wallet. The suspect returned to the car and fled.  The driver was not described.  Victim refused medical treatment.

As you can see from the above robbery, the brazen thieves targeted the victim in broad daylight (at 3:30 pm) as she walked on a side street off of San Vicente Blvd.  They likely were cruising the area looking for an easy mark.  And then this poor, petite, young lady became their victim.  The Female suspect punched her hard in the face several times and dazed her so that she was easily separated from all her property.

She admittedly was texting while she walked, like many of us absentmindedly do, so she probably didn’t even know what was happening until it was all over.  She was left bleeding and crying.  I suspect, even though there’s no mention of her wearing ear buds, that she may have had them in her ears, although I could be wrong (they did also steal her MP3 player).

But I mention all this to say that we need to change how we walk.  There’s a lot of emphasis on not texting or using social media while driving, but there needs to be a discussion about the ramifications of doing it while walking too.  It’s dangerous.  People engaged with their phones step off street curbs and are struck by vehicles all the time.  They become easy marks for robberies but also, and more importantly, for sexual assaults.  You need to have this conversation with your family that to walk and text (or walk and be distracted by your cell phone in any respect) can be seriously dangerous.

If they must make that call or send that text, advise them to do so by stopping, in a well-lit location, preferably with other people around, and to put their back against a wall so no one can come up behind them.  Then they should do a quick assessment and see who’s around, who’s sitting in nearby cars, who’s coming down the sidewalk, who is coming around the corner from that alley.  They should hold their head upright and keep it on a swivel and make eye contact with people.

And take the darn ear buds out.  How can you hear someone running up behind you if your ears are plugged?   How about sirens? How about shouts of a warning, or calls for help?  Avoid becoming a victim of ‘Apple Picking’.  Don’t display your electronic devices for the thieves to key in on and pick your ‘apple’, or something even worse.

6.  V.A. CAMPUS UPDATE

From Congressman Ted Lieu:

Dear Friend,

I am excited to share some recent positive developments about the West LA VA, the Master Plan, leases and homeless Veterans.

Earlier this week, the Los Angeles Times ran an editorial praising the VA for renegotiating favorable agreements with some of the partners at the VA. It also calls on Congress to pass my crucial legislation to construct and develop permanent supportive housing at the West LA VA. I couldn’t agree more!

To read the editorial, follow this link.

In addition, the Los Angeles Times ran an article describing the terms of the newly negotiated agreements.

To read the article, follow this link.

Finally, this week the VA released a press statement and fact sheet outlining the terms of the newly negotiated agreements.

Thank you for your continued support and advocacy for our Los Angeles County Veterans.

Sincerely,
Ted W. Lieu
Member of Congress

7.  MOVIE PREMIERE – STREET CLOSURES

On Tuesday, September 13, 2016, Premier Event Management is planning the “HILLSONG” premiere to be held at the Regency Village Theatre, located at 961 Broxton Ave, at 7:30 PM.  There will be various sidewalk and street closures around the area of Broxton Avenue between Weyburn Avenue and Le Conte Avenue.

If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact  Erica Jean Pacheco or Marguerite Pellegrin of 4Wall Lighting Entertainment / Entertainment Lighting Services at 818-769-9800.

8.  HWPOA COMMUNICATION AND AD POLICY

Please direct all comments, questions or issues regarding the Holmby News to hwpoa@aol.com.

Ads for plumbers, housekeepers, garage sales, etc. will be posted in the weekly News. Emergency situations such as coyote sightings, lost and found pets, traffic alerts and similar situations will continue to be published during the week as received.

When placing an ad, please send to hwpoa@aol.com for the Holmby News moderator to review.  Responses to ads should be directed to the ad placer, not to HWPOA.

9.  RESIDENT ADS

FOR SALE:  THOMAS THE TRAIN ITEMS

I am selling our well-used set of Thomas the Train items.  Set includes:

a figure-8 track (with bridge), a few extra track pieces, Sodor Scrub & Shine (car wash), Water Tower, Sodor Cargo Drop, Percy (train), Gordon (train), James (train), Sir Topham Hat, a wooden train whistle, a roadside tree and two signs.

Items are mostly in good condition. A few of the tracks have black Sharpie lines (courtesy of my then toddler). Not sure if the car wash still functions properly.

Asking $40 for all.  Please contact Jonathan at aerojg@gmail.com

10.  HWPOA CONTACT INFORMATION

HOLMBY WESTWOOD PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.
P.O. Box 49180
Los Angeles, CA 90049
310-470-1785
Email: hwpoa@aol.com
Web site: www.holmbywestwoodpoa.org 

HOLMBY NEWS
September 3, 2016

From the Holmby Westwood Property Owners Association, serving the Holmby Westwood community since 1960.

1.  Street Repairs in HWPOA
2.  Street Construction – Wilshire & Comstock
3.  Holmby Park Update – Lawn Bowling
4.  Dog Waste Bags at Holmby Park
5.  LACC Fireworks Notice
6.  SSA Security Alert
7.  Westwood Library – September Events
8.  HWPOA Communication and Ad Policy
9.  Resident Ads
10.  HWPOA Contact Information

1.  STREET REPAIRS IN HWPOA

The Bureau of Street Services scheduled a Small Asphalt Repairs (SAR) truck for the Westwood Neighborhood Council District to perform small asphalt repairs on ​8/31/16.  Several streets in the Holmby Westwood area were selected for repair:

• Loring Ave. / Charing Cross Rd.
• Strathmore Dr. / Warner Ave.
• Strathmore Dr. /Warner Ave.
• Comstock Ave. btwn Beverly Glen / Wilshire Bl.

HWPOA has also requested several streets to be repaved and we are working to get them approved by the City.

2.  STREET CONSTRUCTION – WILSHIRE & COMSTOCK

From the LADWP:

The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) is performing construction in the area.

The project, which is necessary to provide reliable power to new customers in the area, will consist of installation of a vault and approximately 700 linear feet of conduit near the intersection of Wilshire Boulevard and Comstock Avenue in Westwood.

Construction will begin on Tuesday, August 2 and is expected to be completed in October. Hours of work will be Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

We apologize in advance for any inconvenience and recommend taking alternate routes to avoid the area during construction.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Lance Gornick at (310) 524-8441.

3.  HOLMBY PARK UPDATE – LAWN BOWLING

Lawn Bowling is a sport that moved philanthropist, Marcellus Joslyn, to write a poem and to give a major portion of his considerable wealth to the creation, preservation, and expansion of lawn bowling in Southern California.  Our own Holmby Park bowling greens were the recipient of his largess on several critical occasions.

The first green was ready for play in 1927. At the 2002 celebration of the Club’s 75th Anniversary, Los Angeles rededicated the Club’s facilities for the sole purpose of lawn bowling. Next year the club will be celebrating its 90th Anniversary.  Looking to the future, It is hoped that new lighting will be installed that will allow play until 8 pm on some evenings.

Lawn bowling has a long history that stretches back to at least the 13th century.  The first set of rules was published in 1864. It was so popular that several British monarchs banned the game for fear that it would interfere with their troops’ archery practice.

The actual bowls used to play the game are “almost” spherical ball-like objects with flattened sides and a weight bias.  The other smaller spherical ball that is used is called a jack. A point is awarded to the player or team whose bowl is closest to the jack at the end of a round. The game of lawn bowls is very simple to learn but can take years to perfect.

No Finer Place
“What place is finer than a bowling green?
No friendlier gathering is ever seen
Than happens on a bowling green
The outer world is all forgot
And all is well that once was not.
If all our days were like this one
Life would be full of joy and fun.” 
–Marcellus L. Joslyn

All are welcomed to join in the camaraderie and fun.  Go to www.losangeleslawnbowling.com

Park facts: The jogging/walking path that surrounds the park is 5/8 of a mile long.

4.  DOG WASTE BAGS AT HOLMBY PARK

Holmby Park has several “Dog Waste Stations” around the park.  The stations are supposed to be stocked with waste bags for dog owners to clean up after their dogs.  Unfortunately, the supplies at the stations are often missing.  We spoke to Raul, groundskeeper at the park, who told us that many dog owners take 9-10 bags at a time, rather than just 1-2 as needed.  The park only has limited supplies, and Raul is unable to keep the waste stations stocked when people are taking so many bags.

If you utilize the waste stations at Holmby Park, please only take 1-2 bags at a time, so that there will still be supplies for other dog owners to use.  Thank you.

5.  LACC FIREWORKS NOTICE

To Neighbors of The Los Angeles Country Club:

Please be informed that on the evening of September 10, 2016 at roughly 9:40 p.m., the Los Angeles Country Club will be conducting a fireworks show lasting approximately 9 minutes to celebrate the reopening of our renovated Clubhouse. We want to ensure that you have proper notice so as not to startle anybody. We also hope that you are able to enjoy the fireworks show from your own homes. We appreciate your understanding and hope this will not be an inconvenience for you.

Thank you,
The Los Angeles Country Club Management

6.  SSA SECURITY ALERT

A homeowner who utilizes SSA Security forwarded this to our office.

To all SSA Subscribers,

Please review the LAPD Community Alert provided by W. LA Senior Lead Officer  Maria Gray.  As you are aware, there has been an increase in criminal activity throughout California, including Los Angeles. By following the security suggestions included in this alert that pertain to you, you will reduce your odds of becoming a victim of criminal activity involving property crimes.  We all need to work in concert with each to make the criminal element go elsewhere to commit their dastardly deeds.

Be safe,
Jerry H. Shaw, CFE
CEO; President,
SSA Security Group, Inc.

7.  WESTWOOD LIBRARY – SEPTEMBER EVENTS

Mark your calendars now for our next amazing

USED BOOK SALE
Saturday September 17th
10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

8.  HWPOA COMMUNICATION AND AD POLICY

Please direct all comments, questions or issues regarding the Holmby News to hwpoa@aol.com.

Ads for plumbers, housekeepers, garage sales, etc. will be posted in the weekly News. Emergency situations such as coyote sightings, lost and found pets, traffic alerts and similar situations will continue to be published during the week as received.

When placing an ad, please send to hwpoa@aol.com for the Holmby News moderator to review.  Responses to ads should be directed to the ad placer, not to HWPOA.

9.  RESIDENT ADS

HOUSEKEEPER AVAILABLE

After almost 40 years, we are downsizing from a large house to a condo.  Maria Estevez, our beloved housekeeper of 10 years, speaks English, drives, and is a jewel.  She does everything with a smile, and is wonderful with children and pets.  She comes to us 2 1/2 days a week, so she will have time available.  She can be reached at 310-625-9254, and please feel free to call me for a reference if you like.

Denise Frankfort
310-274-4721

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SPRINKLER SYSTEM & GARDENER

Dear Neighbors,

I’m looking for someone to analyze our sprinkler system and adjust it accordingly for coverage and duration.

Also, I’m considering changing gardeners. Any rave reviews for someone?

Many thanks,
Andrea Smith
310-470-8343
ablsmith@dock.net

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SSA SECURITY – RECOMMENDATION

I have worked with SSA Security before in the Riviera area of the Palisades, they are off duty police officers who are very experienced, knowledgeable and effective. Please contact them for more information. Considering the crimes that have been occurring in our neighborhood, for our safety and well being, I think it is imperative for us to have a security company that is very experienced, knowledgeable and effective.

SSA Security Group Inc. has been requested to develop a residential patrol by several residents of the Little Holmby Hills section of Los Angeles.  SSA Security would have at least one patrol car dedicated to our neighborhood 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. In order for SSA to provide this patrol service on a daily basis, and with the guarantee that the car will be manned with an armed law enforcement professional, it would require a minimum of 130 residences to start.

SSA Security
21601 Devonshire St. #317
Chatsworth, CA 91311
(818) 773-5600
Website:  https://ssa-securitygroup.com/

10.  HWPOA CONTACT INFORMATION

HOLMBY WESTWOOD PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.
P.O. Box 49180
Los Angeles, CA 90049
310-470-1785
Email: hwpoa@aol.com
Web site: www.holmbywestwoodpoa.org 

HOLMBY NEWS
August 26, 2016

From the Holmby Westwood Property Owners Association, serving the Holmby Westwood community since 1960.

1.  Information Bulletin – Sex Offender in the Area
2.  November Election – Be a Paid Volunteer
3.  MyLA 311 – City of L.A. Information & Services
4.  HWPOA Communication and Ad Policy
5.  Resident Ads
6.  HWPOA Contact Information

1.  INFORMATION BULLETIN – SEX OFFENDER IN THE AREA

Dear Neighbors,

–

2.  NOVEMBER ELECTION – BE A PAID VOLUNTEER

More volunteers are needed to staff polling places on November 8, a job that pays between $105 and $175 for Election Day and pre-election training.

Volunteers typically work 14 to 15 hours on Election Day. Polls open at 7 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. Pollworkers are required to arrive between 6 a.m. and 6:30 a.m. to prepare materials. Closing the polls and related duties take about an hour, according to information provided to potential volunteers at lavote.net.

For more information, please CLICK HERE.

3.  MY LA 311 – CITY OF L.A. INFORMATION & SERVICES

MyLA311 links Angelenos with the services and information they need to enjoy their city, beautify their community and stay connected with their local government.

Website:  https://myla311.lacity.org/
Also available as a mobile app – check your webstore

The ‘Submit Service Request’ feature allows you to quickly and easily request the City’s most popular services, including graffiti removal, pothole repair, and bulky-item pickup.

You can keep up to date with the latest City Hall News by browsing through our Facebook, Twitter and YouTube feeds.

No more stamps and envelopes needed! MyLA311 also allows you to pay your Los Angeles Water and Power Bill right from your mobile device.

Looking for the nearest park? Want to cool off on a hot day? Need to return a library book? The ‘Find City Info’ feature conveniently maps the closest parks, libraries, fire and police stations, golf courses, public pools, tennis courts, golf courses, parking lots, and more.

4.  HWPOA COMMUNICATION AND AD POLICY

Please direct all comments, questions or issues regarding the Holmby News to hwpoa@aol.com.

Ads for plumbers, housekeepers, garage sales, etc. will be posted in the weekly News. Emergency situations such as coyote sightings, lost and found pets, traffic alerts and similar situations will continue to be published during the week as received.

When placing an ad, please send to hwpoa@aol.com for the Holmby News moderator to review.  Responses to ads should be directed to the ad placer, not to HWPOA.

5.  RESIDENT ADS

HOUSEKEEPER AVAILABLE

–

——————————————————————

HOUSEKEEPER AVAILABLE

6.  HWPOA CONTACT INFORMATION

HOLMBY WESTWOOD PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.
P.O. Box 49180
Los Angeles, CA 90049
310-470-1785
Email: hwpoa@aol.com
Web site: www.holmbywestwoodpoa.org 

HOLMBY NEWS
August 19, 2016

From the Holmby Westwood Property Owners Association, serving the Holmby Westwood community since 1960.

1.  Back to School Safety
2.  Holmby Park Preservation News
3.  Helicopter Noise Complaints
4.  Westwood Area Auto Crimes Report
5.  Fire Station #71 – at Sunset & Beverly Glen
6.  ACS Security Update
7.  LAPD Blood Drive
8.  Congressional “App Challenge”
9.  2017 Military Academy Nominations
10.  HWPOA Communication and Ad Policy
11.  Resident Ads
12.  HWPOA Contact Information

1.  BACK TO SCHOOL SAFETY

Earlier this week, the school year began for LAUSD schools.  Please be careful when driving around the neighborhood at drop-off and pick-up times, and if you are a parent of a student, please observe all safety regulations when dropping off or picking up your children.  Let’s keep the neighborhood safe!

2.  HOLMBY PARK PRESERVATION NEWS

3.  HELICOPTER NOISE COMPLAINTS

The Los Angeles Area Helicopter Noise Coalition (LAAHNC) is working to seek relief from helicopter noise across Los Angeles County.  You can file a noise report with the Automatic Complaint System.  For more information about how to find your reports in the Automatic Complaint System, please watch this 4-minute video:

Video – Helicopter Noise Disturbance Reports

4.  WESTWOOD AREA AUTO CRIMES REPORT

The West Los Angeles Area continues to be a target rich environment for auto crimes.  Car burglars canvass neighborhoods throughout the night to commit their crimes while most of us are sleeping. The Los Angeles Police Department is making every effort to combat this problem.

An unattended automobile is never a safe or secure place to leave any valuables, whether or not the vehicle is locked. If any property is left unattended in the car, even for just a few minutes, IT WILL BE STOLEN! Something as simple as a sunglass case, an empty backpack or gym bag will cause your car window to be smashed resulting in hundreds of dollars in damage alone.

Car burglars are taking a variety of small electronics and valuables. The top items being taken in most car break ins are back packs, portable GPS systems, cellular phones, lap top computers, tablets, purses, wallets and money.

Community awareness and involvement is instrumental to the prevention of these crimes.

Do not leave ANY property or valuables visible in the car! Remember to Lock It, Hide it, Keep It!

5.  FIRE STATION #71 – AT SUNSET & BEVERLY GLEN

This past month, the firefighters at Engine Station # 71 (Beverly Gen and Sunset) cooked dinner for the homeowner representatives whose organizations have contributed to the ongoing financial support of the station. Over the past 14 or so years, these associations have helped to raise enough funds to purchase the many requests from the firefighters that the city does not provide for our station. This year, we contributed $11,000 for a new tool room which had not been updated for 50 years. Over the years, we purchased a TV, remodeled the kitchen, provided dividers for privacy in the sleeping quarters, lazy-boy reclining chairs in the recreation room, and canopies for shade at the Pancake Breakfast.

During our dinner, I inquired about emergency calls to 911 and equipment for such calls at Station #71. I believe this info will be of interest to our members:

Every firefighter at #71 is an EMT and is CPR certified. Each firefighter can use AED (Automatic External Defibrillator) when working with a full cardiac arrest. They have emergency training and can administer some drugs that fall under County Health protocols. They can do CPR, bandaging, splintering, etc. to make you comfortable.

FS #71 has 3 Firefighter Paramedics (2 Firefighter Paramedics on the ambulance and 1 on the fire engine.) All three rotate from two positions on the Rescue Ambulance to the paramedic position on the engine. They respond to all emergency 911 calls. Most of the members have close to or over 20 years on the job. They have all spent time in the much busier areas of the city so, all have extensive medical, fire, and emergency related experience.

They will ask you what hospital you normally go to or wish to be taken to. According to the data they receive from the hospital, they are able to determine if that hospital is full or is able to accommodate you. If the hospital you request is full, they will take you to another hospital. If it is a life or death situation, they will take you to the closest hospital.

Fire Station #71 is not only open to visitors during the Fire Service Day and the Pancake Breakfast. You can call to make arrangements to visit at anytime. It is always open to our community but the firefighters could be out on a call. They are a fantastic group of firefighters and we thank them for their service as first responders in times of need!

There is an ongoing Station support effort known as “Adopt Fire Station #71” in which I serve as president. The Holmby Westwood Property Owners Association, Bel Air Association, Comstock Hills Homeowners Association, Benedict Canyon Association, and Residents of Beverly Glen all participate in the “Adopt” program.

Adopt Fire Station # 71 is a CA nonprofit PUBLIC BENEFIT Corp, 501 © (3). Your gift will not only benefit the facility but, most importantly, will improve the quality of life for the firefighters and paramedics who, while on duty, live at the station for many days each month.

If you would like to contribute to this ongoing effort, please make your check payable to Adopt Fire Station # 71
and send it to:

Adopt Fire Station # 71
c/o HWPOA
P.O. Box 49180
Los Angeles, CA  90049

Thank you,
Sandy Brown

6.  ACS SECURITY UPDATE

–

7.  LAPD BLOOD DRIVE

Show your spirit by taking part in the Cedars-Sinai’s annual LAPD West Bureau Blood Drive on August 24, 2016 and support the West Los Angeles Community Police Station.

Wednesday, Aug. 24 (Noon – 6 p.m.)
West Los Angeles Division
1663 Butler Ave. (Mobile Unit)
Contact Officer Gray – 30469@lapd.lacity.org
310-444-0735

All donors receive a custom T-shirt and each competing division is eligible to win a grand prize for the most donors registered.

8.  CONGRESSIONAL “APP CHALLENGE”

Congressman Ted W. Lieu announced the launch of the Congressional App Challenge, a competition designed to engage student creativity and promote their participation in computer science and coding. The competition will take place from July 18 to November 2 and is open to all constituents.

Established by Members of the U.S. House of Representatives in 2013, this nationwide effort allows students to compete against their peers by creating and an application or “app,” for mobile, tablet, or computer devices. The Challenge is designed to promote innovation and engagement in coding and computer science.

For more information, please click here:
Congressional App Challenge

9.  2017 MILITARY ACADEMY NOMINATIONS

From the Office of Congressman Ted W. Lieu:

The honor of attending a United States Military Academy comes with the obligation to serve in the Military for at least nine years, including four years at the Academy and five years with the Service.

Members of Congress may nominate candidates for appointment to four of the five U.S. Military Academies: U.S. Military Academy (USMA), West Point, NY; the U.S. Naval Academy (USNA), Annapolis, MD; the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA), Colorado Springs, CO; and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA), Kings Point, NY. The fifth service academy, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy (USCGA), New London, CT, does not require a congressional nomination for appointment.

To request a Military Academy Nomination from our office or for more information, please CLICK HERE.

10.  HWPOA COMMUNICATION AND AD POLICY

Please direct all comments, questions or issues regarding the Holmby News to hwpoa@aol.com.

Ads for plumbers, housekeepers, garage sales, etc. will be posted in the weekly News. Emergency situations such as coyote sightings, lost and found pets, traffic alerts and similar situations will continue to be published during the week as received.

When placing an ad, please send to hwpoa@aol.com for the Holmby News moderator to review.  Responses to ads should be directed to the ad placer, not to HWPOA.

11.  RESIDENT ADS

SPRINKLER SYSTEM & GARDENER

Dear Neighbors,

I’m looking for someone to analyze our sprinkler system and adjust it accordingly for coverage and duration.

Also, I’m considering changing gardeners. Any rave reviews for someone?

Many thanks,
Andrea Smith
310-470-8343
ablsmith@dock.net

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SEEKING HANDYMAN

We are looking for an experienced handyman to help with some projects.  If you have any good recommendations, please let me know.

Thank you,
Gary Reuben
greuben@pacbell.net

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HOUSEKEEPER AVAILABLE

After almost 40 years, we are downsizing from a large house to a condo.  Maria Estevez, our beloved housekeeper of 10 years, speaks English, drives, and is a jewel.  She does everything with a smile, and is wonderful with children and pets.  She comes to us 2 1/2 days a week, so she will have time available.  She can be reached at 310-625-9254, and please feel free to call me for a reference if you like.

Denise Frankfort
310-274-4721

12.  HWPOA CONTACT INFORMATION

HOLMBY WESTWOOD PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.
P.O. Box 49180
Los Angeles, CA 90049
310-470-1785
Email: hwpoa@aol.com
Web site: www.holmbywestwoodpoa.org 

HOLMBY NEWS
August 12, 2016

From the Holmby Westwood Property Owners Association, serving the Holmby Westwood community since 1960.

1.  LAPD Update – Crime Mapping
2.  UPS Package Theft
3.  More Coyotes
4.  LADWP Customer Service Saturday
5.  Name a Seat at the Gil Cates Theater
6.  Sur La Table – Now Open
7.  HWPOA Communication and Ad Policy
8.  Resident Ads
9.  HWPOA Contact Information

1.  LAPD UPDATE – CRIME MAPPING

From Christopher Ragsdale, West LAPD Senior Lead Officer:

Since the E-Policing format has been down I have been directing residents to go to www.crimemapping.com to review crimes within your neighborhood.  What is nice about this site is it also has an Alert feature where you can sign up to receive email alerts when crime is reported within your specified boundaries.

2.  UPS PACKAGE THEFT

A resident on Le Conte near Thayer reported that 2 packages that were delivered by UPS were both stolen from her front porch.  The theft occurred on Tuesday, August 9 between 4:30-7:30 PM.  The theft has been reported to the police.

This should serve as a reminder that it is never safe to leave packages by your front door.  Please have packages delivered with “signature required” or have them delivered to another location (such as a business office) where it can be handed to a person directly.

3.  MORE COYOTES

We continue to receive reports of coyotes in the neighborhood.   Please take appropriate precautions to keep your family and pets safe.

For more information about coyote safety, please click here.

4.  LADWP CUSTOMER SERVICE SATURDAY

The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) will hold Customer Service Saturday at four of its Customer Service Centers on August 13, 2015, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The event location closest to Holmby Westwood is the West Los Angeles Customer Service Center (CSC.)

West Los Angeles CSC
1394 S. Sepulveda Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90025

Customers who attend Customer Service Saturday can expect assistance from staff who are able to take payments, process service order requests, answer billing questions and resolve billing issues. There will be informational tables and displays with helpful information on LADWP programs and services available to customers, as well as sign-up materials.

For more information on Customer Service Saturday, please visit www.ladwp.com/saturdays. LADWP will hold Customer Service Saturday each month in 2015 on the second Saturday of the month.

5.  NAME A SEAT AT THE GIL CATES THEATER

The Geffen Playhouse has been a world renowned institution for the arts, as well as a Westwood landmark, for over 20 years.  Please consider assisting the Geffen Playhouse by “naming a seat” so we can enjoy the power of live theater for the next 20 years.

Please read the attached letter from Gil Cates, Jr., and we thank you for your time and consideration.

For more information:
Name a Seat at the Geffen

6.  SUR LA TABLE – NOW OPEN

Sur La Table, the destination for everyone who loves great cooking and entertaining, is now open in Westwood Village at 1000 Westwood Boulevard (corner of Weyburn Avenue).

With a wide selection of cookware and tools plus cooking classes, inspiration and expertise are always on the menu.  In addition to its vast array of top quality merchandise, the beautiful new Sur La Table in Westwood Village also features an on-site kitchen and an extensive Culinary Program that offers chef’s demonstrations and an incredible array of cooking classes.

Cooking class subjects include: Summer in Tuscany, Date Night – Tour de France, Kids programs such as Kitchen Fundamentals for Kids, Girls Night Out – Fabulous Summer Flavors, Confident Cooking three-part series, Knife Skills 101, and many more.

Stop in Sur La Table to browse, explore, sign up for a class, and meet the friendly and knowledgable staff in Westwood, including General Manager Craig Shahan and Resident Chef Holly Amore.

You’ll also receive a free Sur La Table high quality cotton tote bag when you present this email (while supplies last).

7.  HWPOA COMMUNICATION AND AD POLICY

Please direct all comments, questions or issues regarding the Holmby News to hwpoa@aol.com.

Ads for plumbers, housekeepers, garage sales, etc. will be posted in the weekly News. Emergency situations such as coyote sightings, lost and found pets, traffic alerts and similar situations will continue to be published during the week as received.

When placing an ad, please send to hwpoa@aol.com for the Holmby News moderator to review.  Responses to ads should be directed to the ad placer, not to HWPOA.

8.  RESIDENT ADS

HOUSEKEEPER AVAILABLE

After almost 40 years, we are downsizing from a large house to a condo.  Maria Estevez, our beloved housekeeper of 10 years, speaks English, drives, and is a jewel.  She does everything with a smile, and is wonderful with children and pets.  She comes to us 2 1/2 days a week, so she will have time available.  She can be reached at 310-625-0254, and please feel free to call me for a reference if you like.

Denise Frankfort
310-274-4721

9.  HWPOA CONTACT INFORMATION

HOLMBY WESTWOOD PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.
P.O. Box 49180
Los Angeles, CA 90049
310-470-1785
Email: hwpoa@aol.com
Web site: www.holmbywestwoodpoa.org 

HOLMBY NEWS
August 5, 2016

From the Holmby Westwood Property Owners Association, serving the Holmby Westwood community since 1960.

1.  Street Repair Requests
2.  HPOZ Update
3.  Movie Premiere – Street Closures
4.  LAPD Blood Drive
5.  The PLATO Society
6.  HWPOA Communication and Ad Policy
7.  Resident Ads
8.  HWPOA Contact Information

1.  STREET REPAIR REQUESTS

The Bureau of Street Services has scheduled a Small Asphalt Repairs (SAR) truck (which is described as 1 small asphalt repair truck, consisting of 2 workers and asphalt), for the Westwood Neighborhood Council area, to perform small asphalt repairs on August 31, 2016.

The type of repairs that can be addressed with this program include the following:
– Potholes and pop outs
– Skin patching of eroded or cracked areas
– Some repairs on concrete streets

The Westwood Neighborhood Council has asked us to submit suggested locations in our neighborhood for small street repairs. The city will only send the SAR truck to a total of 15 locations in the entire Westwood Neighborhood Council area, so Holmby Westwood will only see a handful of repairs.

If you are aware of any spots in our neighborhood that would be particularly good candidates for this program, please send requests to Dana at hwpoa@aol.com no later than Monday, August 8.  Please only send street repair requests, not sidewalks or curbs.

2.  HPOZ UPDATE

From Kimberly Henry, L.A. Dept. of City Planning:

Dear Holmby Westwood Property Owner/Resident/Interested Party,

Regarding the proposed Holmby Westwood HPOZ:

We are glad to have received a large amount of written comments, comment cards, and verbal comments.  In order to allow staff time to review and analyze all of the comments received, the proposed Holmby Westwood HPOZ will not be agendized for the August 18, 2016 Cultural Heritage Commission hearing and will not be agendized for the September 22, 2016 City Planning Commission hearing.  You will be notified when the proposed Holmby Westwood HPOZ is rescheduled for both Commissions.

For more information about the proposed Holmby Westwood HPOZ and to view any of the draft documents, please visit our Office of Historic Resources Holmby Westwood webpage at: http://preservation.lacity.org/holmby-westwood.  Additionally, the Historic Resources Report for the proposed Holmby Westwood HPOZ and the PowerPoint presentation from the July 28, 2016 Informational Open House/Public Hearing have been uploaded on the webpage for you to view.

Sincerely,
Kimberly Henry
kimberly.henry@lacity.org

3.  MOVIE PREMIERE – STREET CLOSURES

On Tuesday, August 9, 2016, Sony Pictures is planning the “Sausage Party” premiere to be held at the Regency Village Theatre, located at 961 Broxton Ave, at 7:30 PM.  There will be various sidewalk and street closures around the area of Broxton Avenue between Weyburn Avenue and Le Conte Avenue.

If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact Michelle Dennis at (310) 848-1137 or ELS at 818-769-9800.

4.  LAPD BLOOD DRIVE

Show your spirit by taking part in the Cedars-Sinai’s annual LAPD West Bureau Blood Drive on August 24, 2016 and support the West Los Angeles Community Police Station.

Wednesday, Aug. 24 (Noon – 6 p.m.)
West Los Angeles Division
1663 Butler Ave. (Mobile Unit)
Contact Officer Gray – 30469@lapd.lacity.org
310-444-0735

All donors receive a custom T-shirt and each competing division is eligible to win a grand prize for the most donors registered.

5.  THE PLATO SOCIETY

The PLATO Society is the best known and most prestigious peer learning program in metro Los Angeles. What does that mean? The PLATO Society of Los Angeles is a community of 400 peers who learn actively through study discussion groups rather than passively through lectures, in areas as diverse as history, art, literature, music, economics, current events and a wide array of other topics.  Our members are highly intelligent, accomplished professionals and others who are interested in learning, enthusiastic, cultured and engaged with other people.  We are curious minds learning from each other in a collegial setting.

If you have an inquisitive mind, check us out at  https://www.theplatosociety.org

6.  HWPOA COMMUNICATION AND AD POLICY

Please direct all comments, questions or issues regarding the Holmby News to hwpoa@aol.com.

Ads for plumbers, housekeepers, garage sales, etc. will be posted in the weekly News. Emergency situations such as coyote sightings, lost and found pets, traffic alerts and similar situations will continue to be published during the week as received.

When placing an ad, please send to hwpoa@aol.com for the Holmby News moderator to review.  Responses to ads should be directed to the ad placer, not to HWPOA.

7.  RESIDENT ADS

IN-HOME CAREGIVER AVAILABLE

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SPRINKLER SYSTEM & GARDENER

Dear Neighbors,

I’m looking for someone to analyze our sprinkler system and adjust it accordingly for coverage and duration.

Also, I’m considering changing gardeners. Any rave reviews for someone?

Many thanks,
Andrea Smith
310-470-8343
ablsmith@dock.net

8.  HWPOA CONTACT INFORMATION

HOLMBY WESTWOOD PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.
P.O. Box 49180
Los Angeles, CA 90049
310-470-1785
Email: hwpoa@aol.com
Web site: www.holmbywestwoodpoa.org 

HOLMBY NEWS
July 29, 2016

From the Holmby Westwood Property Owners Association, serving the Holmby Westwood community since 1960.

1.  Street Repair Requests
2.  HPOZ Update
3.  Holmby Park Preservation News
4.  Coyote Alert
5.  Westwood Library Happenings
6.  Tender Greens Opening in Westwood
7.  Upcoming Community Events
8.  HWPOA Communication and Ad Policy
9.  Resident Ads
10.  HWPOA Contact Information

1.  STREET REPAIR REQUESTS

The Bureau of Street Services has scheduled a Small Asphalt Repairs (SAR) truck (which is described as 1 small asphalt repair truck, consisting of 2 workers and asphalt), for the Westwood Neighborhood Council area, to perform small asphalt repairs on August 31, 2016.

The type of repairs that can be addressed with this program include the following:
– Potholes and pop outs
– Skin patching of eroded or cracked areas
– Some repairs on concrete streets

The Westwood Neighborhood Council has asked us to submit suggested locations in our neighborhood for small street repairs. The city will only send the SAR truck to a total of 15 locations in the entire Westwood Neighborhood Council area, so Holmby Westwood will only see a handful of repairs.

If you are aware of any spots in our neighborhood that would be particularly good candidates for this program, please send requests to Dana at hwpoa@aol.com no later than Monday, August 8.  Please only send street repair requests, not sidewalks or curbs.

2.  HPOZ UPDATE

3.  HOLMBY PARK PRESERVATION NEWS

4.  COYOTE ALERT

A resident reported seeing three coyotes last night on Bainbridge Ave.  Here are a few tips when encountering a coyote:

What should I do if a coyote approaches me?
Wave your arms. Shout in a low, loud tone. Throw objects at the coyote while maintaining eye contact. Make yourself look as big as possible. If you are wearing a jacket, take it off & swing around over your head. If possible go towards active or populated areas but do not turn your back & run from the coyote as that could trigger a chase.

How can I keep my pets safe?
Keep you pets indoors or closely supervised when outside. Do not leave small pets unattended in your yard. Walk your dog on a leash at all times & stay close to high pedestrian traffic areas. Avoid dense brushy areas or paths near abandoned properties. If you notice a coyote when walking your dog, keep your dog as close to you as possible & move towards an active area. Never encourage or allow your dog to interact or “play” with coyotes.

How can I keep my children safe?
Make sure that your children never play outside in the same clothes they just ate food in. Wildlife may be attracted to food odors in clothing. Make sure children wash thoroughly after eating. Provide children with a whistle and breakaway necklace they can blow if an animal approaches. Never let them approach any stray animal. If a coyote approaches, they should face the animal, move slowly to another person or dwelling entrance, raise their arms over their head, clap their hands, stomp their feet, blow a whistle, and call out in a stern loud voice “There is a coyote here.” The best thing to do is avoid leaving children unattended.

Deterrents & Scare Tactics

• Sprinkle cayenne pepper or chili powder in areas where coyotes sleep to deter them from staying. These types of deterrents do not last & will need to be repeated if they become wet. Do not use these methods where children have access & do not use near air ducts.
• Use motion activated strobe lights, sprinklers, or radios that are set to talk or news stations to help deter the coyotes. Use caution as strobe lights can trigger seizures in people or pets with epilepsy.
• Use a coyote shaker can. This is a can containing a few coins which can be shaken & thrown towards a coyote. Throw tennis balls, open & close an umbrella towards the coyote, bang two pans together, blow a whistle, use an air horn, or use a high pressure water sprayer. Alternate the deterrents to prevent coyotes from getting used to one method.

5.  WESTWOOD LIBRARY HAPPENINGS

There is a lot planned at the Westwood Library for the month of August.  The schedule includes fire safety, meditation, adult coloring, reading clubs, arts & crafts and much more.  There are events and activities for adults, teens and children.

For a complete list of programs at the library, please click here:
http://www.friendsofwestwoodlibrary.org/news/

6.  TENDER GREENS OPENING IN WESTWOOD

The new Tender Greens restaurant in Westwood Village will open to the public next Monday, August 1st, showcasing its acclaimed “farm to fork” menu of fresh, healthy, chef-inspired farmers’ market sensible dishes.

Tender Greens is located at 1109 Glendon Avenue (between Kinross Avenue and Lindbrook Drive – the old Acapulco space).  For those driving, there is two-hour free parking in the city’s Broxton Parking Garage, 1036 Broxton Avenue, until 6:00 p.m., and a $3.00 flat rate for vehicles entering after 6:00 p.m.  (This is about two blocks from Tender Greens.)

More info at:  http://www.tendergreens.com/locations/451/westwood/

7.  UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS

UCLA’s Senior Scholars Program – UCLA’s Senior Scholars is a unique campus-wide program in which persons 50 years and older can audit regular-session undergraduate courses.

• Choose from hundreds of classes each quarter.
• Learn from UCLA’s distinguished professors while enjoying an intergenerational experience.
• No time consuming papers, reports, prerequisites or exams.
• *Restrictions Apply: language, laboratory, studio art, performing arts and other classes that require daily grading and/or daily professor-student interaction cannot accept auditors.

More info at: https://www.semel.ucla.edu/longevity/srscholars

Cinema Under the Stars – Westwood Village’s Cinema Under The Stars is back this summer with three classic family friendly movies. Moviegoers are invited to bring their own lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy the screenings in this unique outdoor setting. Each movie screening is open to the public, and moviegoers are encouraged to show up ahead of time to stake out a prime spot for the show. Tickets are not required to attend.

8.  HWPOA COMMUNICATION AND AD POLICY

Please direct all comments, questions or issues regarding the Holmby News to hwpoa@aol.com.

Ads for plumbers, housekeepers, garage sales, etc. will be posted in the weekly News. Emergency situations such as coyote sightings, lost and found pets, traffic alerts and similar situations will continue to be published during the week as received.

When placing an ad, please send to hwpoa@aol.com for the Holmby News moderator to review.  Responses to ads should be directed to the ad placer, not to HWPOA.

9.  RESIDENT ADS

LIMO SERVICE RECOMMENDATION

I want to recommend a terrific limo service I’ve used many times…………knows our area! Friendly, efficient,reasonable and even gave me a wake-up call!!!!!!! Gail Ravins

M&M Car Service
310  285  0193
Manny or Susan

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SEEKING GUTTER REPAIR

I am looking for a qualified person to repair small gutters. Please call Marie at (310) 600-4726.

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ASSISTANT/HELPER WANTED

Assistant/helper wanted to work with 82 year-old-woman with Parkinson’s Disease.  Light housekeeping,; assistance with hair, make-up, and dressing.  Must speak English.  Driving/car not required.  Part-time or full-time; live-in optional.  Please contact Denise (310-721-2500) or Marci (310-948-1917).

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HOUSEKEEPER AVAILABLE

Our housekeeper, Elizabeth, is available for part-time work. She is prompt, reasonable and extremely thorough. If interested, please call her at (424) 229-0806.

10.  HWPOA CONTACT INFORMATION

HOLMBY WESTWOOD PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.
P.O. Box 49180
Los Angeles, CA 90049
310-470-1785
Email: hwpoa@aol.com
Web site: www.holmbywestwoodpoa.org 

A message to the membership of the
Holmby Westwood Property Owners Association

July, 25, 2016

There has been a lot of discussion, much anger, and many meetings about the proposed Historic Preservation Overlay Zone (HPOZ) in the past few months. I believe it is incumbent upon me, as president of the association, to explain how we got to where we are and the role of the Board of Directors up to this point. A bit of history might be welcome, based upon what I know, and may contribute to setting the record straight.

Approximately ten years ago, the Board of Directors began to assess the historic nature of our community because of reports of homes being torn down, CC&Rs being ignored, and the possibility of incompatible development and loss of our physically planned and developed Janss community.

A History and Architecture Committee was formed within the Board (non Board members were also on the Committee) to study our history and physical community and to educate neighbors about its findings. The Committee studied how other LA neighborhoods addressed and solved issues of change, including incompatible development. The Committee met with residents in communities with adopted HPOZs (30 such communities exist), studied HPOZ Plans in communities that were similar to ours, met with city officials, the LA Conservancy, the Office of Historic Resources and brought the information back to the Board. This discussion went on for several years, at which point, the Board recommended that we, as a community, learn about the possible formation of a HPOZ for Holmby Westwood.

Detailed information was amassed, distributed by snail mail, email, door-to-door deliveries, and through community meetings where city staff from the Office of Historic Resources spoke to our community. There were meetings at Westwood United Methodist Church, St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, and Belmont Village – meetings within our neighborhood and well publicized. We had focus groups to better inform people. We had speakers who addressed such a plan, who answered questions, and who showed pictures of compatible development. The Committee was focused on making certain that all information was available to everyone and that informational meetings took place for all.

AFTER this information was made available to all residents, as our Board insisted and the city required, Holmby Westwood POA took a vote to determine whether or not the community was supportive of pursuing such a plan. We took not only one vote, but we took a second vote (both between 2012 and 2014) to reach those who did not vote the first time, to be certain we had support to pursue a HPOZ ( via snail mail, email, hand delivery, person to person, and petition at our July 4^th picnic). With all of the information that had been made available, the community voted to go forward with such a plan. 57% of Holmby Westwood residents voted of whom 84% responded “YES.” 16% responded “NO.” That information was presented to our councilman and his staff.

At that time, the Planning Department was short on staff, but eventually proposed a budget item for funding several staffers to work on HPOZ Plans for communities wishing to consider such. Holmby Westwood was one of six communities who were ready to proceed with the City of LA requirements. We had worked for several years, done our homework, informed our community, and were ready to join the 30 neighborhoods in LA who have HPOZs.

A survey entitled “Survey LA” was being conducted by Historic Resources Group (HRG), to access the historic significance of every home in Westwood. The company photographed every home visible from the street and catagorized each house into “contributing,” “non-contributing,” or “altered contributing.” Such designation is based on the Sec’y of Interior Standards, not the city’s, not the homeowners’, nor the “opinions” of others. The HOA contributed $45,000 towards the HRG Survey to complete a more enhanced assessment.

Once the survey was assessed, it was determined by the City of LA that, in fact, Holmby Westwood did qualify to become an HPOZ because there were enough significant homes that, in most cases, had been maintained to qualify for such a Plan. An Interim Control Ordinance (ICO) was put in place for two years in March, 2015, by City Council for six communities to write Draft Plans while holding off on remodeling or tearing down any home until such a Plan was in place.

A Working Group was selected BY THE CITY to work on a HPOZ “Draft” Plan. They worked on this plan for 6 months, meeting twice a month for 3 hours per mtg. There were reading assignments and much discussion at each meeting. The group was composed of HW residents who live in one and two story homes, some longer term, some newer term, an architect knowledgeable about preservation, people with children, comprising a mixture of interests representing our community.

The city conducted one informational meeting and another is to be held on July 28th, concluding with a public hearing. A report will be written after that meeting and the Plan will go to the Cultural Heritage Commission, the City Planning Commission, to the City Council’s Planning and Land-Use Committee, and eventually, to City Council.

I believe it is important for you to have this information. We would not have received the votes of 57% interested homeowners (a huge response) with 84% of them supporting unless neighbors had been informed along the way. I sincerely hope that you try to understand that this undertaking proceeded, from the very beginning, with full and total disclosure to the community. Accusations that residents never received anything, never knew about an HPOZ, and that the procedure was not transparent are simply untrue. The Holmby Westwood Property Owners Association could not have been more interested in educating every resident or making transparent every action taken.

We have one of the most wonderful neighborhoods in Los Angeles. I always believed that we were a rational community, listened to many points of view, and worked through some major controversies on difficult issues. What happened that turned neighbors into “us” against “them?” Such adversity serves NO ONE’s best interest.

Supporters and Board members have tried to reach out to the opposition to no avail. On behalf of the Board of Directors, I hope that whoever is leading the “red” team will reach out to the council office, our Board of Directors, or the Working Group to discuss options and solutions. We all need to come together to protect Holmby Westwood, to find a way that that can be accomplished. Shouting out at meetings, screaming into a microphone, and angrily written letters have never solved problems!

Thank you for greater understanding! I look forward to working together to maintain and enhance our community as a wonderful place to live.

Sandy Brown
President, Holmby Westwood Property Owners Association

HOLMBY NEWS
July 15, 2016

From the Holmby Westwood Property Owners Association, serving the Holmby Westwood community since 1960.

1.  Wilshire Blvd. Resurfacing – This Weekend
2.  Update on Helicopter Noise
3.  Metro Construction Field Work
4.  HPOZ Workshop and Public Hearing
5.  Westwood Village – Cinema Under the Stars
6.  HWPOA Communication and Ad Policy
7.  Resident Ads
8.  HWPOA Contact Information

1.  WILSHIRE BLVD. RESURFACING – THIS WEEKEND

The City of Los Angeles, Bureau of Street Services will cold plane and resurface the street on Wilshire Blvd., from Beverly Glen Blvd. to Westwood Blvd.

Traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction during the scheduled working hours (6:00 AM to 6:00 PM).  The public is advised to use Santa Monica Boulevard or other alternate routes.

• Saturday, July 16, 2016, to Sunday, July 17, 2016:
  Wilshire Blvd., from Beverly Glen Blvd. to Manning Ave.

• Saturday, July 23, 2016 to July 24, 2016:
  Wilshire Blvd., from Manning Ave. to Westwood Blvd.:
  
  

2.  UPDATE ON HELICOPTER NOISE

FROM:  Roy Meals, Board Member, Los Angeles Area Helicopter Noise Coalition

This spring, the Los Angeles City Council approved (12 “yes” votes, including Paul Koretz, and zero “no” votes (3 members were absent)) and Mayor Garcetti signed a resolution urging action by the FAA to adopt Special Federal Aviation Regulations to reduce helicopter noise in Los Angeles County. The cities of Lomita, West Hollywood, Hermosa Beach, and Burbank and the South Bay Cities Council of Governments have also sent supporting letters to the FAA urging them to take action.

Recently, the FAA announced that it would fund WebTrak for another year (through June 30, 2017), tacitly agreeing that helicopter disturbances over Los Angeles County are a big problem. Zip code 90024 consistently ranks in the top 3-4 zip codes for disturbances reported weekly. Zip code 90049 ranks closely behind.

Remember, the vast majority of disturbances over Westwood are tourist helicopters sightseeing the Getty, UCLA, the Playboy and Spelling mansions, then flying east to view the Sunset Boulevard, the Hollywood sign, and Griffith Park. Even emergency helicopters should “fly neighborly.” Many don’t.

You can report helicopter disturbances to the FAA three ways:

1. Smart phone app: HeliTracker, which is free and which is the easiest way to report noise disturbances. See demonstration at www.helitracker.org
2.  Online Website: http://heli-noise-la.com/webtrak/
3.  Automated phone:  Call (424) 348-HELI (4354) and follow the voice prompts

More info at:  http://lahelicopternoise.org/

Thank you.

3.  METRO CONSTRUCTION FIELD WORK

Metro contractors are performing field work as part of the planning for Section 3 of the Purple Line Extension. The work will include drilling of soil borings, groundwater monitoring well installation, testing and monitoring to gather further information about the geological conditions.

The field work will be performed on week days and week ends in various areas in and around Westwood and Century City, including:

• East side of Comstock Ave., between Santa Monica Blvd. and Eastborne Ave.
• Santa Monica Blvd. (Frontage Road) between Comstock Ave. and Benecia Ave.
• Beverly Glen Boulevard, Eastborne Avenue to Holman Avenue.
• Santa Monica Boulevard at Beverly Glen Boulevard.

4.  HPOZ WORKSHOP & PUBLIC HEARING

The HPOZ workshop with L.A. City Planners last night was well attended.  For those of you that were unable to attend, here is some of the information that was handed out:

HPOZ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Please come to the next LA City HPOZ Open House and
ask any and all questions.

Thursday, July 28th
Open House 6 – 7 pm; Hearing; 7 – 9 pm
St. Alban’s Episcopal Church
580 Hilgard Ave. @ Westholme

5.  WESTWOOD VILLAGE – CINEMA UNDER THE STARS

Westwood Village’s Cinema Under The Stars is back this summer with three classic family friendly movies.

Moviegoers are invited to bring their own lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy the screenings in this unique outdoor setting. Each movie screening is open to the public, and moviegoers are encouraged to show up ahead of time to stake out a prime spot for the show. Tickets are not required to attend.

6.  HWPOA COMMUNICATION AND AD POLICY

Please direct all comments, questions or issues regarding the Holmby News to hwpoa@aol.com.

Ads for plumbers, housekeepers, garage sales, etc. will be posted in the weekly News. Emergency situations such as coyote sightings, lost and found pets, traffic alerts and similar situations will continue to be published during the week as received.

When placing an ad, please send to hwpoa@aol.com for the Holmby News moderator to review.  Responses to ads should be directed to the ad placer, not to HWPOA.

7.  RESIDENT ADS

FLOWER DELIVERY ERROR – FOR CATHY

I received a lovely orchid plant left at my front door. However it is not for me.  Note reads:

Dear Cathy,
In appreciation…….etc.
FROM: Temple Emanuel

If you are Cathy,
Please contact: Ellie Weintraub  at ellie95@aol.com

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SEEKING GUEST ROOM

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SEEKING GUTTER REPAIR

I am looking for a qualified person to repair small gutters. Please call Marie at (310) 600-4726.

8.  HWPOA CONTACT INFORMATION

HOLMBY WESTWOOD PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.
P.O. Box 49180
Los Angeles, CA 90049
310-470-1785
Email: hwpoa@aol.com
Web site: www.holmbywestwoodpoa.org