EL SERENO

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EL SERENO
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MARCH 2011
Paid for by Huizar for Council 2011• 2606 E. First Street • Los Angeles, CA 90033 • ID#1325266
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COMMUNITY
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NEWS
COMMUNITY
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RESIDENT
COMMUNITY
| ARTIST
COMMUNITY
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FUN
COMMUNITY
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BASKETBALL
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SENIORS
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DANCE STUDIO
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DINING REVIEW
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ON THE COVER
Fabian Debora
Fabian Debora is a painter and a muralist. He has pursued his love for art since
early childhood. He will soon begin to restore a special mural in El Sereno.
Read his story on page 6
5338 Alhambra Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90032
323.222.1700
273 S. Main St.
Orange, CA 92868
714.289.9600
www.buenavistafurniture.com
community |
NEWS
El Sereno Bicentennial Committee Events
Wilson Cheer Places 1st
The El Sereno Bicentennial Committee is in full swing already, preparing
for many upcoming fundraising events in the next few months. Funds raised
will go towards the annual 4th of July parade so please support these
Bicentennial Committee events or even volunteer. Please contact Julio Torres
at [email protected] for more info or visit our Facebook page
Bicentennial Committee El Sereno for the latest event info.
Congratulations to Wilson Cheer for winning 1st place in their division at
the “King Of The Bleachers” cheer competition in Long Beach.....Great job!
STATE LINE TURN AROUND
PANCAKE & RUMMAGE SALE
SHAKEY’S PIZZA
DINNER DANCE
March 12th
April 16th
May 27th
June 25th
Free Car Seat Inspection at El Sereno Park
On Saturday, March 12th from 9am to 1pm there will be a FREE car seat
inspection by the California Highway Patrol and other law enforcement
agencies. The National Latino Peace Officers Association (NLPOA) East Los
Angeles Chapter in cooperation with Project Amiga will sponsor the event
along with State Farm Insurance.
Kite Flying at Ascot Hills Park
Bring your family and friends to Ascot
Hills Park on Sunday, March 20th, to
celebrate the first day of Spring with a day of
Kite flying! Pack a picnic lunch and bring
your kites to the rolling grassy hills of Ascot
Hills Park, an urban oasis on the east side of
downtown Los Angeles. There is plenty of
parking on the trek to where the kites will be
flown.
Multiple car seat inspection tents will be set up in the parking lot behind
Farmdale Elementary where car owners will have their car seats inspected
for proper installation and overall safety check. If the CHP technician feels
that the car seat is no longer safe, they will be replaced FREE of charge.
Child must accompany parent and be in car seat in order to have it properly
inspected. All inspections are by appointment only. To make your
appointment please call Project Amiga at (626) 401-1395 or email them at
[email protected]. Inspection site is El Sereno Park located at 4721
Klamath St. Los Angeles, CA 90032. Special thanks go out to Mike Galvez,
Wilson Class of ‘87, for his help in bringing this community safety event to
El Sereno. Galvez, is a retired Montebello police officer.
The LA-32 Neighborhood Council will be
presenting awards for various categories in
“Kite Flying and Making” achievements.
March 20th, 2011
11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Ascot Hills Park, 4371 Multnomah St, El Sereno, CA. 90032
Free Homebuyer Workshop at Xokolatl Cafe
On Thursday, March 24th from 7pm - 8:30pm there will be a FREE
Homebuyer Workshop at Xokolatl Cafe in El Sereno. This informative
workshop is sponsored by Bank of America.You’ll get insight on the start to
finish home buying process from a dedicated mortgage loan officer including
the benefits of owning a home, affordable mortgage programs, and much
more. To reserve your seat, please call Cristina H. Garcia at (323) 899-3766
or email her at: [email protected]
Grand Opening at Fresco Market
Free ACT Practice Test at El Sereno Library
Congratulations to owners Joseph Murga and Helena Jubany as Fresco
Community Market held a ribbon cutting ceremony on Saturday, February
26th. The market has been opened for the last 2 months but made it official
as the local community came to welcome them and took a look around,
many for the first time. Fresco Community Market is located on Monterey
Road in Hermon. Councilmember Huizar was on hand to cut the ribbon
along with owners Murga and Jubany. Stop on by and visit Fresco Market!
On Saturday, March 19th from 12:30pm - 5pm there will be a FREE fulllength practice ACT test administered by the Princeton Review. Call or visit
the El Sereno Branch Library reference desk to sign-up. Please plan to come
to the follow-up session to pick up test scores on Saturday, April 2nd at
10am. Library is located at 5226 Huntington Drive South in El Sereno
90032. Call (323) 225-9201 for more info.
4
community |
RESIDENT
Roberto Valdivia
H
opefully you know about Councilman Huizar’s Bulky Item Drop Off Program, held in El Sereno on the
second Saturday, monthly from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. This program is specifically designed for residents to drop
off their unwanted bulky items. This month’s profile features a local resident who took the incentive to expound on
Huizar’s program, Roberto Valdivia.
I met Roberto at Xokolatl Cafe to interview him for this month’s profile. Soft spoken and unassuming, he approached
me after I had mistaken him for some other gentleman. Roberto claimed he was shy, but his ideas for beautifying our
neighborhood show someone with great insight.
RV: I grew up here and attended All Saints, Multnomah and Cathedral High School. I earned an Eagle Scout Award
and graduated from Loyola Marymount University, with a degree in art (graphic design). I primarily work as a Senior
Interactive Designer for Dailey, an advertising agency in West Hollywood.
OTES: So you really are a local product?
RV: Yes, but it didn’t feel permanent until I returned, married. My wife already owned a home here, so I’m back in
Hillside Village, about a block away from the house where I grew up.
OTES: So, tell me about your project.
RV: Well, Councilman Huizar started the ball rolling with bins he has all over the district, the “Bulky Item Drop Off Program”.
My wife and I were driving around, and I said, “You know, if I had a truck, I’d come and pick up this stuff ”, I mean the city comes, but sometimes it seems
like nobody calls 3-1-1, so I asked some people, “Can I borrow your truck?” And nobody wants to lend their truck to move stuff, because you’d scratch it up,
so I got a group from Hillside Village, part of the property owners association (HVPOA), and I made the announcement.
I also mentioned this to Julio (Our Town El Sereno), “You have a truck, let’s get together and let’s do this.” And he’s like, “Ok.” I thought he was going to
pass, because when it comes down to it, nobody shows up. But he did call and asked, “Are you ready?” and I said, “You’re serious?! We’ll do it!” So he and I
went out, along with HVOPA members.
Eventually I bought a truck, so now we have four or five trucks. Last month we had a new person from the HVPOA. He has one of those big, “Dooley” trucks
you can put 3 or 4 couches in there. Everyone meets about 8am, and spends about an hour to two, driving around. We go up north and south of Huntington
Drive, and the border of El Sereno by Fremont and Valley. We get a lot of items in this area (north Huntington Drive), hardly any in Hillside Village. I notice
(most) of the debris is in the alleys, they (may) take it off the street, but it’s in the alleys.
I’m not sure people know to call 3-1-1, or think someone else is going to handle it, maybe that’s what it is. When I first started, my wife said, “Well you know
what’s going happen, people are just going to leave their stuff out because they know someone’s going to come and pick it up.” But (I feel) if no one does it,
it’s not going to get done. There’s a quote I believe in that goes like this, “If you want and believe that change is needed, sometimes you just have to go out and
do it yourself.”
Another thing I was trying to do with my neighbors, is broaden their vision and responsibility. Unfortunately many don’t see past their front gates and I’m
trying to get them to acknowledge that whatever happens beyond their gates, across the neighborhood, it’s going to come into yours. You can invite friends
over, and hang out at your home, but once they see all this debris, it doesn’t reflect positively on your neighborhood. You have to take care of your neighbor as
well as yourself.
OTES: I like the way you think. So how long have you been doing this?
RV: It’s been about 4 months, we started in September 2010, the second weekend of the month. Thanks to Huizar’s program, they provide the dumpsters,
without that, I don’t know if I’d be able to do this. Whether he wins the election, or Rudy Martinez does, I really hope they continue the program.
OTES: Did you have any idea the plan would grow this well?
RV: No, and it’s been great, I know I’ve personally taken my trash to a dumpster, and its’ way too expensive, there’s no way I can afford to pick up trash and
deliver it to a dumpster.
OTES: What is your goal for the program?
RV: I’d love to have more drivers and someone to pick up the items. I’m the only one who’s not driving, my father drives, and I jump out and I grab trash.
When help is needed, the other guys will park their cars and move stuff. But if we had other people in passenger seats, it’d be quicker. There wouldn’t be a
traffic issue. We’ve had people yell at us even though we tell them, “We’re trying to pick up your trash here.” We hand out fliers and let them know if they call
3-1-1, you don’t have to wait for us. I’d love to get more people involved.
Some of the older volunteers I thought would just be drivers, but one in particular said, “I’m getting my exercise, I’m helping, I’m doing something.” It was
very fulfilling. I’ve asked Huizar’s office to give us two additional bins. When we start, it’s half filled. Unfortunately it’s construction stuff. I’ve asked his
office to get someone to not allow construction trucks to dump. Or have another bin only for furniture. Our bins are not secured, they’re out in the open,
whereas others are behind a gate. I’ve seen contractors’ leave their refuse in the mornings and I had a run-in with them. But I have no control over that
situation, all I can say is “Stop doing that please!”
Continued on Page 11
5
community |
ARTIST
Fabian Debora
M
usician and long time El Sereno resident, Francisco Aguilarios, had an epiphany 8 months ago as he walked along the L.A. River and under the Broadway
Bridge, near Lincoln Heights. He caught a glimpse of a magazine article in a worn out issue of Citizen L.A. that lined his path. The article featured
Boyle Heights muralist, Fabian Debora. Upon reading it, Francisco immediately made it his personal mission to find Debora, for he thought, “he is the one”
who will restore the faded mural outside of Nate’s Liquor Store on Huntington Drive. It was painted by his friend, El Sereno artist, Richard Ruiz, in the early
1970’s. Today, nearly 30 years later, in its dim glory, the mural’s bottom portion has been replaced with grey paint due to continuous tagging.
Unfortunately, in 1980, Richard Ruiz suffered a fatal accident that marked an early and untimely death; way before street art received official cataloging or
murals became accepted as legitimate art. Long time L.A. muralist, Ernesto De La Loza, confirmed that Richard Ruiz was indeed a pioneer of the Los Angeles
Chicano mural movement of the 70’s in a 10 minute promotional film Debora shared. It is filmed by Mandeep, produced by Misol Productions, and presented
by, For The Record Films. Debora shared that the short film currently serves as a promotional tool to gain support for the project. He also mentioned his plan
to record the restoration process in a documentary film with community involvement in various ceremonies and celebrations taking place at the site of the
mural. Debora believes that the project gives back so much more to the community than just another restored mural; It serves as a representation of peace,
hope, and unity.
Debora grew up at Aliso Village in Boyle Heights and attended Dolores Mission Elementary before growing into a disgruntled teen running amok in a
disadvantaged area. There he began ‘piecing’ on the streets, trying to stay away from trouble even though trouble seemed to be everywhere. However, he
always had a love for art, and consequently given art supplies consistently from his aunt at a very young age. So the creative process runs in his blood and
according to Aguilarios he’s certainly “the one”.
Aguilarios tracked down Debora last year at Homeboy Industries, where he works as a drug counselor. He asked him to join him at Xocolatl Café where they
discussed Aguilarios’ desire to have Debora be the artist to spearhead this restoration project. Aguilarios told him Ruiz’s story about growing up in El Sereno
and took him to see some of Ruiz’s original drawings, paintings, and poetry, in addition to meeting Ruiz’s sisters, Norma and Elena Lopez, and his mother,
Elizabeth Cisneros. Debora was blown away by serendipitous succession of artwork and agreed with Aquilarios that he was meant to take on the Richard Ruiz
mural restoration project. Not only did Debora agree to the project for Richard Ruiz’s his artistic legacy or his family, but to give them a sense of peace and
pride. It unites the youth and the community through the arts, and for Debora, the muralists of the ‘70s, is the culture of the history and the future. Knowledge
is power; no one can ever say it enough.
Debora’s vision for the restoration process includes bringing in long time muralist and friend, David Botello, and Wayne Healy of East Los Streetscapers, in
addition to Ernesto De La Loza-mentors who have inspired and educated Debora. He would like for them to join the youth and community, peers amongst
neighbors of today, in Ruiz’s honor. Debora wants to fuel the youth of El Sereno with knowledge on the existence of the murals on our streets, as well as the
reason for their restoration. Debora believes that understanding culture and history plays a significant role in respecting the future, and Richard Ruiz’s mural at
the site along Nate’s attempts to convey that very same message. Debora knows that Ruiz speaks to him through Aguilarios, and he is willing to do what it
takes to see this particular project completed.
Debora informed, Our Town, that Arturo Gonzalez, District Director for Jose Huizar’s office, is working with him to secure a budget with the city council to
preserve Richard Ruiz’s historic mural in El Sereno. Once budgets are approved, Debora will be calling out to the youth and the community of El Sereno to
contribute their support, time, ideas, and talents to the cause.
BY Annette Cruz - Our Town El Sereno
6
community |
FUN
Monster Jam Truck Show Invades Dodger Stadium
D
odger Stadium, for the first time ever, was host to the Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam on
Saturday, February 19th. This historic night was also a stormy night with heavy rains and
lightning which caused a temporary halt in the competition until the cells passed over, but the
weather did not hold back the thousands of Angelino families who came out to enjoy the fun.
The “Party in the Pits” took place right outside the stadium from 3 to 5pm with the last hour
providing a short break in the rain. The pit area gave everyone an up close view of the Monster
Trucks with photo opportunities and a chance to meet the drivers before the competition began.
Meanwhile, Iron Man hung overhead, several feet in the air, fastened by a crane giving much
amazement to the fans gathered down below. My son’s favorite was Grave Digger and we
spotted many little guys (future drivers perhaps?) in their Grave Digger pit crew gear around
this crowd favorite truck. And who could resist Monster Mutt Dalmatian, driven by Candice
Jolly, with those cute doggie ears and wagging tongue? In addition to the trucks, a car
exhibition of famous “race car”replicas included The General Lee, Herbie, KITT, DeLorean
DM-C12 and Bumblebee. All to which my son treated like superstars!
As the rain came pouring back 10 minutes before the stadium gates opened and continued on
into the night, it made for an extremely muddy and challenging track for 16 of the best drivers
in the sport. The crowds roared as trucks slipped and slid in the mud racing each other to the
number 1 spot. Children in attendance were beaming with excitement as they rooted for their
favorite truck.
.
Despite the all night downpour and the cold temperatures, watching the smiling faces on my
family, the fans (including a few local neighbors from El Sereno and Silverlake resident,
Christopher Thorn, guitarist for Blind Melon with his son), along with the $3 hot cocoas, kept
Photos by Dennis Cruz
my heart warm like the sun. Cheering along side my lively new friends I made in our seating
section bonded us all. It was an awesome opportunity for local Angelinos, myself included,
who normally do not attend these types of events because of the long commute to Orange Country, to witness first hand the thrilling competition.
Many were heard saying, as we exited the stadium, “looking forward to this next year”.
RACING RESULTS: CHAMPIONSHIP RACE – MAXIMUM DESTRUCTION DEFEATED GRAVE DIGGER.
BY Annette Cruz - Our Town El Sereno
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community |
BASKETBALL
Lady Mules Hoops
Photos by Eliseo Villalovos
QA
&
with Coach
Joey Faraon
What is the most gratifying memory of this past season? For me the most
gratifying moment was after we were eliminated, as strange as that seems.
The things they say about each other, or how myself or the program has
impacted their lives is truly priceless. It’s the reason we as coaches do what
we do.
Who is going to step up next year on your squad and who should we keep
an eye out for? 2011 Northern league co-MVP Natalie Vasquez (shared
with Danielle Martinez) was a force to be reckoned with this year, and with
her work ethic we expect big things from her next year. Keep your eye out
for Sophomore point guard Jackie Macias who was ready to start working
out when the final buzzer sounded in our playoff elimination.
Basketball is a team game, so how do you prepare your girls going into a
game? You had a few seniors on your team, how have they impacted your
program? Leading up to game day its all preparation. Game films & walk
through. Depending on home or away its usually a team meal, one more walk
through, and stretches. The girls usually get together 10 minutes before there
game and say what they need to say to each other (each player speaks). I’m
not there for that, I give them their space. Right after that Danielle comes to
get me and one of the players leads us in a team prayer. A few motivational
words from me, and its off to work. Last: For the last 4 years Danielle
Martinez & I have a special hand shake we do before she takes the court.
Every single game for 4 years. Going to miss that.
Wilson girls basketball was moved up to D-1 recently, are you up to the
challenge? This was our 3rd year in D-1, and to be honest Wilson has
always been a Division 2 school. The seeding system makes no sense now.
We refuse to make a big fuss about it, and we are willing to play anyone.
How has the support of the students, parents, and community been?
It”s been AMAZING! I’ve yet to see a fan base for city section girls
basketball quite like ours. 350+ is unheard of for girls hoops in this area. We
can always feel the buzz on campus come Wednesday and Fridays. We talk
about that all the time. I make sure they know that it’s all their hard work and
effort that has created this atmosphere. Our Lady Mules Hoops fan page
(facebook) and “Our Town El Sereno” have been great in spreading the buzz
around town, It’s a great feeling to get support from people that don’t even
know my girls, but everyone remembers us when we leave.
What would you like people to know about your team that otherwise they
might not know? Before and after every practice/game we break and yell
“TOGETHER”. Something people don’t know is that we live that word. It’s
not a team, but a family that is born well before the season starts. While other
families spend their summers on beaches and parks, we commit to spend
ours in the weight room, on the track, or at the top of Ascot Hills, together.
Team meetings, team lunches, team BBQ’s, together. I think this is why we
get such a great effort from game to game. Everyone in our locker room can
look each other in the eye and know that the person across the way is willing
to go that extra mile for you.
8
community |
SENIORS
Area Seniors Attend Annual Valentine’s Day Ball
O
n February 10th, 2011 more than
600 Seniors attended the annual
‘Senior Valentine Ball’ in El Sereno.
Senior citizens from at least 21 senior
clubs and organizations were treated
to a formal dance and dinner at this
one of-a-kind Eastside happening
hosted by Councilmember José
Huizar.
Councilmember José Huizar hosted
his Fourth Annual “Senior Valentine
Ball” dance and dinner for seniors
living in Boyle Heights, El Sereno
and Northeast Los Angeles. The
Councilmember created this tradition
to honor the seniors in the 14th
District for all they’ve done to
improve the community. For many of
the seniors, the formal dance and
dinner was a first-of-a kind
experience and allowed those who
never attended a high school formal
the chance to do so. Music was
provided by the popular Eastside
band, “Chico,” whose ability to play
classic jazz, rock and pop standards
from bygone eras, while mixing in
Latin flavored Cumbia, Salsa and
Ranchera, got many people on the
dance floor.
9
community |
DANCE STUDIO
The Only Dance Studio in El Sereno Opens It’s Doors to the Community
Thanks to FUSION Performing Dance Academy (FPDA), a
non-profit (501(c)3) organization, El Sereno now has the
opportunity to continue practicing the moves they see on the big
screen and television. Albertossy Espinoza, Executive/Artistic
Director and Founder of FPDA, brings his passion for dance to
students of all ages and skill levels. Since March 3, 2008, FPDA
has been developing the talent that the community has to offer.
Espinoza had previously offered his program at a very subsidized
price at a local center, however his program was sadly cut after
the grant used for his program was lost. The community was
shocked and petitions were created and visits to the council office
were made. Unfortunately, nothing could be done and the children
and adults of El Sereno lost their dance and fitness classes.
Espinoza’s goal was to stay in the community that he embraced as
his own. After searching for a month and a half, he found a new
home for FPDA. With the help of some students from his adult
classes that are members of the community, Espinoza once again
opens his doors to El Sereno and the community at large. “I
missed all of my students, it was devastating saying good bye to
the children and adults that became members of the Fusion
family” states Espinoza. “Although we still need mirrors and
ballet barres, I couldn’t wait anymore to see my students, so
classes are in session” continued Espinoza.
Community residents enjoying one of the many dance classes offered at
FUSION Performing Dance Academy.
The new and only dance studio of El Sereno is located at 4400 S. Huntington Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90032 at the intersection of South Huntington Drive and
Fern Place. Espinoza, a professional actor, dancer and choreographer with 20 years of experience, offers dance classes at an extremely affordable rate. The
program includes an array of classes including Ballet Fusion, Modern, Pre-Dance and Hip Hop Fusion for students ages three to sixteen.
In addition, adults can enjoy a fun way to increase stamina, lose weight, and build confidence in the academy’s most popular classes, Latin Rhythm Cardio
and Cardio Boot Camp. The Body & Mind class is designed to enhance vitality and a sense of well being through yoga and stretching training that enables
participants to gain improved flexibility, balance, a strong core, and ultimately, relaxation of body and mind. Espinoza teaches all classes in English and
Spanish.
Espinoza’s commitment to the community is to promote character development, self-confidence, and leadership for all students. Raised in a low-income
household, he has acquired a great understanding, appreciation and talent for creative expression throughout his career as an actor, dancer and choreographer.
Now he is giving back, and enjoying the journey. So strong is his commitment that in the two and a half years he was at the center, he helped two El Sereno
members become fitness instructors, and hired them to teach for his organization. He also invited two members of the community to join the Board of Directors
of FUSION Performing Dance Academy. “I am here to help put El Sereno on the map. With my professional dance company in residence at the studio, the
name of this community will go all over the states and the world” adds Espinoza.
Fusion cordially relies heavily on charitable donations and/or sponsorship. They are currently seeking donations for the completion of the dance studio. Please
visit our website for more information, www.fpdacademy.org or call them at (323) 342-9179. Donations are tax deductible, and they will help put a smile on
the face of a child taking his/her first dance class.
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El Sereno, CA 90032 •
(323) 342-9924
10
Law Offices of
Borges & Associates
College Bound: How a local charter school
inspired national school leaders
A local charter school, Futuro Prep, hosted charter school leaders from
around the nation last week as part of the highly selective Building Excellent
Schools (BES) Fellowship. The Fellows – representing schools from
Boston, Nashville, and Memphis – were in Los Angeles to observe what they
call “no excuses schools” that have a college preparatory mission for
students from neighborhoods with traditionally low college attendance rates.
Practicing law for more than 27 years
Sue Walsh, the director of the BES Fellowship, wrote, “It was a powerful day
for us at BES… [We had the opportunity] to see what is possible for a no
excuses, college preparatory elementary charter school in year one, and what
a high bar truly looks like… You inspired all of us deeply.”
Futuro Prep is known for a number of distinguishing features. During the
extended school day (7:30 to 3:45), each class is taught by two credentialed
teachers, adding a level of individualized instruction not seen in typical
public schools. Students needing additional support are invited to beforeand after-school tutoring. With a culture of hard work, strict discipline, and
academic rigor, students are developing a love of learning that will carry
them to and through college.
Antonio R. Borges
Futuro Prep opened in 2010 with kindergarten and first grade on the campus
of El Sereno Elementary. For the 2011-12 school year, it will expand to
second grade and continue to grow by one grade each year until its students
are ready for middle school. As a public charter school, Futuro Prep is open
to any children from California, regardless of their home address. Because
the school receives more requests for enrollment than it has space, students
are admitted based on a random drawing that will take place the first
weekend of April.
John R. Borges
Attorneys at Law
Abogados Bilingues
¨
Work injuries
Lastimaduras en el trabajo
Families or educators interested in learning more about Futuro Prep or
scheduling a tour should contact the school at (323) 397-1440.
Auto accidents
Continued from Page 5
Accidentes de auto
We consistently fill two bins. Once a month is a lot to ask, it’s a
commitment from the guys that help. Without the help from Charles, Ray,
Leonard, Julio, and my father (Roberto), this couldn’t happen. If there’s
too much for us to pick up, we’ll write down the address and call 3-1-1 on
Monday. For the most part, we try to pick up as much as we can.
Expungements
Rectificar delitos anteriores
We don’t have a name for our program. And we need to because I think
people think we’re scavenging for ourselves. So we need to identify
ourselves as volunteers, trying to clean up the neighborhood. Julio (OTES)
and I are talking about that (getting magnetic signage) for the trucks.
Criminal defense
Defensa en casos criminales
But there’s risks involved as well, nails you can step on. It seems like each
week we evolve in terms of what we do safety-wise. The first week I went
out, I picked up a pane of glass and it broke, shattering everywhere. I said,
“Okay, now I have to wear glasses.” I didn’t think about stuff like that, I
just go out and do it.
Divorces, Support,
and Visitation
´
Divorcios, Sostenimiento, y Visitacion
Councilman Huizar’s pick up locations are at:
1) El Sereno Park 4721 Klamath St. (Corners of Ruth Swiggett and Eastern)
2200 S. Fremont Ave. Suite #208
Alhambra, CA 91803
(626) 299-7300
2) Rose Hill Park 4530 Mercury Avenue (Corners of Beryl and Mercury Ave)
If you would like to join Roberto and would like to make a difference in
your community please contact Our Town El Sereno for any updates or
show up the second Saturday of each month at El Sereno Park (8am).
Email: [email protected]
BY Therese hernandez-Cano
11
community | DINING REVIEW
Dining With Anthony And Deidre
It is time to clean your plate and prepare it for fresh finds of spring flavors as we find ourselves in the third month of the year, March. We are grateful to have
shared with you the February reviews of Mike & Anne’s and Antigua Bread. We hope you prepare your plate and head on down to this month’s review locations;
Raffi’s Place, and El Vaquero Restaurant.
O
affi’s Place, is located at 211 East
Broadway, just east of the Americana and
Glendale Galleria. Humble owners, the
Bakijanians (Rafik, his wife Gohar, and their
sons, Armond and Raymond) first began with a
small sandwich shop. Today, the little eatery
has grown into the well known and loved fine
restaurant that offers a delicious gourmet
Persian cuisine. The atmosphere has an airy
coastal feel of which is implemented through
the wonderful murals on the walls in the
restaurant. Anyone can enjoy looking up at the
beautiful clear night sky while dining in the
outdoor area of the restaurant. Choosing one dish can be difficult because of
the array of great selections to choose from. The hustle and bustle of the day
seemed to disappear as we savored each flavor of the dishes. The employees
were vibrant, helpful, and friendly. On our first visit, one of the gracious
waitresses, Lia, was very informative and friendly; she introduced us to what
are now some of our favorite dishes at Raffi’s. One of them is the Soltani
Kabob dish - a behemoth of flavorable and juicy skewered charbroiled filet
mignon with molded ground beef with grilled tomatoes and bell peppers,
served on light fluffy saffron flavored basmati rice. We really love the
appetizers too, including their hummus, yogurt and cucumber, and yogurt,
moussir (shallots), and eggplant. We also love their spumoni and baklava, a
sweet honey masterpiece.
ur second honorable mention this month is
El Vaquero, found in the heart of El
Sereno and located at 4884 1/2 Huntingon
Drive. The restaurant’s name was inspired by a
popular restaurant in Mexico. Owner,
Malaquias Vasquez, wanted the same success
and familiarity of the name from the famous
restaurant in Mexico and first opened a
restaurant in Alhambra. That location opened in
2001, and is known more as a “to go” spot. He
opened the second El Vaquero as a family style
sit-down eatery in 2003. Growing up in the
restaurant business in Guadalajara, Malaquias
learned to take pride in offering good customer service by using the, “ mi casa
es tu casa,” motto. The atmosphere is vibrant and relaxing as if you were home
with family. Excelling with authenticity of everyday flavors from his
childhood recipes, Malaquias has captured our tastebuds. Anthony loves the
Chicken Taquitos combo plate, served with rice and beans, as well as their
Cocido. Deidre likes eating their Pozole when it’s cold out. We both agree that
their Enchiladas (chicken and cheese) with rice and beans truly captured our
taste buds. With affordable family style combo prices, you can’t go wrong
with El Vaquero.
Photo by Lance Lewis Yep @ www.photoimp.net
Photo by Lance Lewis Yep @ www.photoimp.net
R
For more information on El Vaquero Restaurant, call (323) 441-8536 or find them at www.elvaquerorestaurante.com
For more information on Raffi’s Place, call (818) 240-7411 or find them at www.raffisplace.com
Decor & Ahh More
Quality products for the rich and not so rich
Anthony & Deidre Gonzalez
P.O. Box 3223
South Pasadena, CA 91031
Request your Free catalog
Call Us Today!
(323) 215-8691
decorandahhmore.vpweb.com
12
FREE
Buy one 12 oz. champurrado and
get another one free
GRATIS
compra un champurrado y
llevate otro gratis de 12 oz.
Must bring ad.
5028 S. Huntington Dr. • El Sereno, CA 90032
EBT
NEWLAND HARDWARE
Serving the El Sereno community for over 80 years
(323) 227-1933
4938 Huntington Dr. South
(Next to Food For Less Market)
®
START RIGHT. START HERE.®
BATHROOM VANITIES
g at
Startin
E-Z Kare Interior
99 Latex Flat Paint
cabinet & top included
TOOL RENTALS
call for details
W 314 994 F6 While supplies last.
1099
reg. 16.99
32-Gal. Wheeled Trash Can
• Friction-fit lid with lock-down handles.
• Designed to keep out rodents and pests.
• Heavy-duty wheels for easy portability.
99
$89
$19
WITH COUPON
Dries in minutes to a rich uniform finish.
Soap and water cleanup. 25-year warranty
999
E-Z Kare Interior
99 Latex Satin Enamel
reg. 19.99
24” x 36” Coir & Rubber Door Mat
• Natural color center is durable and eco-friendly.
• Scrolled rubber edge helps prevent slipping.
$23
WITH COUPON
High-hiding coverage. Easy soap and
water cleanup. 25-year warranty
99 E-Z Kare Interior
$24
WITH COUPON
Latex Semi-Gloss
Enamel
High-hiding and durable. Perfect for high-traffic
areas like kitchens, baths, molding. 25-year warranty
Faucet sold separately
®
Makita
Cordless Power Tools
Jack Hammer • Tile Cutter
Carpet Cleaner • Generators • Power Snake
SCREENS
• Same day service
• Next day
• New screens
• Re-screens
299
reg. 5.99
8-QT. Potting Mix
W 110 686 85
While supplies last.
L 462 606 F6 While supplies last.
• Enriched with Miracle-Gro® plant food.
• Feeds instantly and continuously for quick root development
Come visit us at our new Altadena location!
P ueblo C orner S hops
Pueblo Avenue and Huntington Drive • El Sereno 90032
Shop Local and Save Money!
J&G
Party Rentals
El Sereno Furniture
a
ha’s Clean
t
r
e
rs
(323) 222-4249
(213) 509-5476 cell
.............
...............
M
(323) 223-0012
(323) 806-4501 cell
Custom furniture, kitchen cabinet works,
bedroom sets, living room sets, dining
sets, sofas, and mattresses.
We rent jumpers, chairs, tables, helium
tanks. Ballons and party supplies. Mention
this ad for $5.00 discount
Free membership, Wednesday 99¢ rental,
New releases every week, Spanish titles
available. Free popcorn on Tuesdays and
Thursdays with every rental.
Big selection of styles for the whole family.
Plenty of leather shoes available.
Buy one pair, get second pair 50% off.
(323) 223-3422
...............
D&D Video
(323) 221-4100
.........
...............
Same day service, Free pick up
& delivery, Alterations, Laundry.
$10 off when you bring in 15
pieces for dry cleaning.
Tenemos zapatos de piel para niño y niña
de Leon, Guanajuato.
shoepalace
(323) 223-8300
Main Street
Cafe
Great tasting water delivered
to your home!
(323) 329-2889
[email protected]
M
E
X
I
C
A
N
F
O
O
D
Open 7 Day A Week
6am to Midnight
•
DAILY SPECIALS
•
ATM
Come join us every
Saturday evening for live
music in the patio
132 W. Main St. Alhambra, CA
(626) 576-8519
Breakfast
Buy any breakfast
at regular price,
get one of equal
or lesser value
for just
4836 Huntington Dr. S.
El Sereno • 90032
(323) 225-6262
Hours: Mon - Sun 11am to 8pm
Buy One
1/4 lb.
Hamburger
Includes dressing, onion,
lettuce and tomato
Get One
HALF PRICE
HALF PRICE
Dine-in only
6 AM TO NOON
Rick’s Drive In & Out
Exp. 3/31/11
Dine-in only
6 AM TO NOON
Rick’s Drive In & Out
Exp. 3/31/11
One coupon per visit.
Not valid with any other offer.
Not valid on weekends or holidays.
One coupon per visit.
Not valid with any other offer.
Not valid on weekends or holidays.
(323) 329-2889
H I S T O R I C
n
n
MAZATLAN
BALLROOM
PRECIOS ECONOMICOS
AFFORDABLE PRICES
Film Location, Photo Studio.
Available for weddings, baptisms,
quinceañeras, birthdays,
aniversaries, bachelor or
bachelerette parties, divorce
parties, concerts, etc.
Film Location, Photo Studio.
Disponible para bodas,
quinceañeras, bautizos,
cumpleaños, aniversarios, fiestas
de niños despedidas de soltero/a,
divorcios, conciertos, etc.
Services available:
Catering, decorations, linen
rentals, table clothes, waiters,
bartenders, music, DJ’s, mariachi,
live bands, limosine,
photography, video, waltz
choreographer, master of
ceremonies.
Servicios de:
Comida, decoracion, renta de
manteleria blanca, forros,
meseras, bartenders, musica,
DJ grupos, mariachi, bandas,
limosine, foto, video, maestros de
vals, maestro de ceremonias.
Frank’s
Auto Body & Paint
Serving El Sereno since 1995
Complete Collision Repair
Custom Paint Bike
Com
e in
for a
FREE
estim
ate
Towing Available
4691 Huntington Dr. North • (323) 223-1653
Se atiende con previa cita, llamar al
(323) 855-8362 preguntar por Sanikos
De Anda & Sons
construction
Lic,# 544907
family owned & operated since 1988
JOSE CRUZ
PLUMBING • HEATING
ELECTRICAL
We do it all.
All work guaranteed
Drainage Plumbing Services
Lowest prices.
Senior citizen discount.
(323) 225-0099
email: [email protected]
EXPERT SINCE 1965
starting at
$
Residential & Commercial
19.95
(323) 222-7228
Call us day or night. Free Estimates You’ll be glad you did.
(323)Dr.
222-7228
4334 Huntington
South • El Sereno • 90032
OUR TOWN
EL SERENO
P.O. Box 32054
Los Angeles, CA 90032
www.theadelitas.com
Find Us On Facebook
Our Town El Sereno is a community magazine for
El Sereno and is published monthly. It is distributed
throughout the community to promote positive
community awareness. We reserve the right to edit all
submissions due to space limitations. Our Town El Sereno
is not liable for any claims made by our advertisers. All
artwork and content are property of Our Town El Sereno.
All rights reserved.
JULIO TORRES
Art Director
[email protected]
CONTRIBUTORS
Rick Torres
Annette & Dennis Cruz
Therese Hernandez-Cano
Anthony & Deidre Gonzalez
ADVERTISING
[email protected]
CONTACT US
[email protected]
Letty Cuevas
S E RV I N G T H E R E A L E S TAT E N E E D S
OF THE EL SERENO COMMUNITY
FOR OVER 30 YEARS!
First Time Buyers : It is a GREAT time to buy a home! Because of Lower
prices and good interest rates you should not WAIT!
Step One: Contact my favorite lender: Linda Mejia at (323) 243-0485 or
email to: [email protected]. She will get you pre-approved!
Step Two: I will meet with you to discuss your preferences for your new
home. You will receive emails of homes in your price range, when you find
one you are interested in, we will go shopping!
First Time Investors: There are many opportunities in your community, lets
get you pre-approved and find two, three or four units.
Sellers: I can provide you a report showing the current market value of your
home. Even if you are not quite ready to make a move, I can send you a
monthly update of sold homes and homes for sale in your area. Then when you
are ready to talk........Call me!
The Agent you need :
The Lender you need :
Letty
Cuevas
Linda
Mejia
www.lettycuevas.com
[email protected]
(626) 375-2161
(323) 243--0485
Lic # 00778734
Hablamos espanol para servirle: Prestamos, Compra y Venta de Casas !
Home Buyers Seminar
You’re Invited to a Home Buyers’ Seminar. If you’re thinking about buying a
home, then this is your chance to get the information you need.
Hosted by
Cristina H. Garcia, Realtor
®
Century 21 Earnest Realty
(323) 899-3766
DRE# 01376480
To reserve a seat please email:
[email protected]
Jennifer Sheu
Bank of America
(909) 895-9896
[email protected]
Elena Lu
Chicago Title
Mary Kay
Advance Group
Property Inspections
Date:
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Place:
Xokolatl Cafe
4987 Huntington Drive North
Los Angeles, Ca. 90032
(323) 441-8400
Time:
7p.m. to 9p.m.