Friday, November 28, 2008
Thursday, November 27, 2008
My Friend, Swami
During this time, I made lots of friends, most of which were of religions other than my own. We respected each other and in turn, I ended up learning a lot about their beliefs.
Swami (as he liked to be called), became a friend and ally. Swami and I looked out for each other. We shared each others meals, stories and spent hours talking about life, values and ideas. Eventually, Swami left Los Angeles for India to be with his family.
The gentleman who spit on me later allowed me to take his portrait. I returned the next week with a 5 x 7 of himself. With a tear in his eye, he smiled and explained, "No one has taken my picture since I was a boy." We too became friends.
I have a lot to be thankful for on this day.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Ensenada: The Gringo Getaway
The drive through Tijuana is tough: my customers warn me of the crime and suggest I get in and out as fast as possible. However, once on Highway 1 heading south, the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean distracts from the pockets of poverty that lines the toll road.
The shipping port town of Ensenada is about two hours south of San Diego, CA--about 4-1/2 hours south of Los Angeles.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Monday, November 24, 2008
Bart's Moment of Disappointment
After a minute or two of a good ear rub and words of encouragement to the imprisoned bull dog, I took this parting shot. Words could not describe the disillusionment on his face.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Friday, November 21, 2008
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Monday, November 17, 2008
St. Luke's Awaiting
Today, the designated Historical Landmark is just another hidden treasure, currently locked up, waiting to be rediscovered and appreciated by the community.
Built in 1933, the Art Deco structure provided a much needed service to the growing population of
Last year, however, Caltech sold the 13.4-acre property to a
One of the reasons this hospital is important to me it that it was in those interior walls that I first felt the slap of a hand, took a breath and saw light.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Six Flags Over the 101
All I know is I'd like to ride it, or walk it, or... I'm not sure.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Street Symbols
Parking lot lines and an Orthodox Catholic Church cross. Nothing symbolic other than they both resemble the other.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Focus on LA
Monday, November 10, 2008
Frank Llyod Wright Meets Barney & Friends
Some structures catch your eye and pull you in. Like a moth drawn to light, the Oxley Building in South Pasadena is one of those. The sanguine colors work, as well as the simple fixtures and minimalist, zen-like mind-set. For some reason the Oxley Building compliments the surrounding, more traditional architecture of South Pas. It's also built in the shadow of the great Rialto Theater, like a wise grandfather looking over his eccentric granddaughter.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Rialto Theater
From what I've read, the Moorish style Rialto will be spared and given another chance of life. I've seen dozens of films there and always marveled at not only the exterior of the 1925 structure but the interior. As you walk in, your eyes are drawn up to the intricately stenciled ceiling and plaster ornaments.
Seconds before the film began, the house lights dimmed and the red glow of the gargoyle above the screen would pierce your soul, just as the seat springs did your back side. That didn't matter because you knew walking in that the Rialto was a treasure, a working antique; one that must be preserved. And it looks like it will be.
Saturday, November 8, 2008
The Espresso Bar
The "E-Bar" is gone now and is currently occupied by a high-rent store. At the time (late 70s and early 80s) there was virtually no parking. One usually parked along Raymond Ave, which in those days was pretty risky. You entered through a dimly-lit alley, turned right at the railroad tracks and through a patio, past the tarot card reader to the front door.
Inside, an eclectic display of furniture, paintings and artifacts littered the room. A real wood-burning fireplace kept patrons warm as they lounged in thriftshop quality easy chairs.
When "Sam" wasn't playing the out-of-tuned upright piano, an antique jukebox spun 45s in the corner. The coffee and the espresso was fantastic. In fact, the old building reeked of premium coffee grinds. Each week--I think Thursdays--they had "Espresso Yourself Night," which was basically an open mic for musicians, poets and story tellers.
Ok, I just found a tribute website (click here) for more on the Espresso Bar.
Friday, November 7, 2008
Thursday, November 6, 2008
The Wigwam Motel
More on the Wigwam at heyjt.blogspot.com
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Can't Park Here
The Cessna doesn't have much to do with this story but the sign reminds me of the freedoms we used to enjoy on the open road way back when.