Beverly Hills Weekly

24 Pages·2012·5.7 MB·English

photos
• cEcI Soiree Under

the Stars Page 10
briefs rudy cole photos
• Speakers blast Board of Education • • 2nd and 3rd Generation
for $1.5-million “investment” home purchase Page 2 Opinions, reflections Page 6 Beverly High Graduates Pages 8-9
Weekly
Beverly Hills ALSO ON THE WEB
www.bhweekly.com
SERVING BEVERLY HILLS • BEVERLYWOOD • LOS ANGELES
Issue 665 • June 28 - July 4, 2012
Summer
Reading
What are your neighbors
reading?
cover story • pages 10-11
City Council reasserts opposition to tunnel
under Beverly High, hires special counsel
Princeton Credit, LLC, one of three ven- really beneficial where we’re not spending
bin “riniveesftmsen•t ” Lhiobmowe rpeuprrcehsaesnet e d P BaHgUeS D3 rbouardd deyba ccleo l e P a• g Nee w6 g r adua tio n p h oPatgeos s8-9• briefs dors to respond to the district’s request for money on interest, we’re spending money
WeBeverely HillsklwyAwLwS.Ob hOwNe TeHklEy .WcoEmB proposal, will finance $1.6 million. on principal, which means we’re building
President Brian Goldberg has said the equity.”
municipal financing the BHUSD is get- Based on his research, Goldberg said
SERVING BEVERLY HILLS • BEVERLYWOOD • LOS ANGELES
Issue 664 • June 21 - June 27, 2012 ting for the home purchase is favorable he believed the house would rent for
Speakers blast Board of because it requires no money down. Prior approximately $4,500–$5,500 on the open
Education for approving to Tuesday’s vote, the BHUSD made market.
a $46,000 deposit, but Goldberg said When asked to comment that the district
$11,000 monthly
Princeton Credit would reimburse the is investing at a loss if rent collected is less
expenditure for $1.5-million
deposit to the general fund. than the monthly payment of approximately
“investment” home The approximately $140,000-annual $11,000, Goldberg said, “I wouldn’t call it
Local Leaders
payments will come from the general a loss. You’re paying principal. As you’re
Unite fund. building principal you have equity.”
After the meeting, Goldberg said the Goldberg said based on historic trends
Mayor Willie Brien discusses
last week’s U.S. Conference board has not yet initiated rent negotiations in Beverly Hills, he anticipated the home
of Mayors in Orlando
with Woods. could increase in value to approximately
cover story • pages 10-11 “Today was focused on getting the deal $2.64 million over 15 years, resulting in a
done because until the approval happened net positive for the district.
WHAT’S ON YOUR MIND? today, it didn’t seem very prudent to start Finance Committee member and former
negotiations,” Goldberg said. Board of Education member Mel Spitz
You can write us at: Goldberg said he had a target rent figure disagreed.
140 South Beverly Drive #201 220 N. Doheny Drive in mind but said he was not comfortable “I’m not at all certain that there will be a
Beverly Hills, cA 90212 sharing it prior to the negotiations. net infusion of revenue for the district but I
The Board of Education voted unanimously In Goldberg’s own cost-benefit analysis am certain that it’s a risk,” Spitz said. “I’ve
You can fax us at:
Tuesday night to approve the purchase of that he presented at Tuesday afternoon’s advised you of a number of risk factors and
310.887.0789
a $1.5-million home at 220 North Doheny study session with the BHUSD Finance I don’t think it’s appropriate.”
email us at: Drive, which has been presented as both an Committee, Goldberg used a hypothetical Risks Spitz cited included loss of rental
[email protected] investment opportunity and as a housing figure of $3,500 a month for rent. Goldberg revenue during periods of vacancy; costs
option for Superintendent Gary Woods. said that wasn’t the figure he has in mind of utilities, security, cleaning and refur-
The board has agreed to a 15-year for the rent, but “that’s the baseline in bishment between occupancies, and costs
loan with an interest rate of 3.7 percent. terms of my thinking where it becomes of re-renting; earthquake and other dam-
age not covered by insurance; potential
Inside Beverly Hills—BHTV10 legal issues such as disputes and evictions;
SNAPSHOT Inside Beverly Hills, moderated by columnist Rudy Cole, will next air on June 28 at and the possibility of flat or reduced mar-
8:30 p.m. and June 29 at 10 p.m. about Fine Art; June 29 at 6:30 p.m. with City Clerk ket value.
Byron Pope; June 29 at 8 p.m. about Historic Preservation; and July 2 at 8 p.m. and “First, I believe it is not appropriate
July 3 at 5:30 p.m. about the Metro Westside Extension. for the district to risk public funds gam-
bling on gains or losses in the manner of
WeBeverely Hillskly
Issue 665 • June 28 - July 4, 2012
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Earlier this month, Hawthorne fifth graders Jack Schmidt (left) and Celine Emein (right), helped Hawthorne’s
Dancing Classroom Competition Team advance to the finals at a competition at Selma Avenue Elementary School in
Los Angeles. The finals took place June 19 at the Historic Cocoanut Grove Theater.
Page  • Beverly Hills Weekly
Board of Education expected to break
promise to the voters not to raise taxes for
Measure E
income. open session without any discussion. The
If the district were to rent the property transmittal, which incorrectly identified
under market value to a non-employee in the property as 220 South Doheny Drive
an agreement that was not open to public instead of North Doheny Drive, did not
access, that could be considered a gift of indicate the possibility that it would be
public funds. rented by the superintendent.
The Board of Education went forward All five board members said Tuesday
with the purchase against the advice of night they did not intend to hide anything
Finance Committee members. Spitz and from the public and acknowledged they
Martin Frank advised against the purchase, could have done a better job presenting
Terry White advised against the district’s their plans to the public.
continuing deficit-spending and said he “There were many discussions, many
believed housing for the superintendent angles, many opportunities and many
could be provided in a more cost-effec- deliberations about this that would not
tive way, and Chair Herb Young said have been appropriate to occur in public,
he regretted the board felt it had to vote because it would have denigrated the dis-
Tuesday evening, “which doesn’t permit trict’s bargaining position and that is what
any more discussion beyond this evening.” I understand the primary purpose of being
Committee member Bob Sternshein did in closed session for real property negotia-
not attend the study session. tions is to the Brown Act,” Vice President
Young said the Finance Committee was Jake Manaster said.
Alumni Association presents scholarships at Senior Awards generally supportive of providing Woods Board member Lisa Korbatov partici-
with a housing allowance. pated in the evening meeting by phone
Night
Although the board said it started dis- from Edinburgh. She did not participate in
The Beverly Hills High School Alumni Association presented scholarship awards to
cussing the purchase of a home in closed the study session.
graduating seniors June 20. Michael Libow (far left) and Lilly Lewis (far right) pre-
session in February, Young said the com- Young said there was also confusion
sented awards to (left to right) Jared Sleisenger (Harvard University), Andrew Schwab
mittee did not learn about the district’s surrounding the purpose of the purchase.
(UC Berkeley), Carly Stone (Vanderbilt University), Taylor Shaw (MIT–Dordick
plans to purchase a home until it was “They should have put it on the agenda
Family Scholarship), Donya Enayati (UCLA–Michael Libow Scholarship), Tina
reported in Beverly Hills Weekly two at a regular Tuesday evening meeting
Torbati (UCLA), and Tania Torbati (UCLA). Tina and Tania jointly received the Lisa
weeks ago. and discussed the philosophy of what
Harris Memorial Scholarship. For more on Sleisenger, see page 7.
In Issue #663 the Weekly reported the they wanted to achieve,” Young said. “Is
board voted on the purchase June 12 in briefs cont. on page 4
private investors,” Spitz said. “Second, I reserves.
believe that any knowledgeable private The board directed Best, Best & Krieger
investor would determine that the risks and attorney Dina Harris, who attended the NOTICE OF publIC hEarINg
costs outweigh the potential for profit, and study session and formal meeting, to look
would decline to make this investment. into the legality of including the real prop-
Third, diverting the equivalent of a full- erty in the reserve. The Council of the City of Beverly Hills, at its regular meeting to be held on
time teacher’s salary from funding of the Board member Noah Margo proposed Tuesday, July 3, 2012, at 7:00 p.m., in the Council Chambers of the City Hall,
educational program at this time, when the an amendment to the resolution that was 455 N. Rexford Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210, will consider:
district is forecasting deficit spending to approved Tuesday night, striking a state-
preserve programs, will not be a prudent ment that said acquiring the property A RESOLUTION OF INTENTION TO APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO
deployment of district resources.” would “assist the District in meeting its THE CONTRACT BETWEEN THE BOARD OF ADMINISTRATION OF
Goldberg said he sees the home as an state mandated financial reserve require- THE CALIFORNIA PUBLIC EMPLOYEES’ RETIREMENT SYSTEM AND
asset for the district. Although Goldberg ments.” THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS TO PROVIDE A
said in his e-mail blast to constituents According to Harris, the school district SECOND TIER OF RETIREMENT BENEFITS TO APPLICABLE SAFETY
earlier this month the home could count would be exempt from property tax on the EMPLOYEES; AND
“towards the assets available the district home since she said the home would serve
has in reserve, thereby freeing up the 3 school-district purposes. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BEVERLY
percent in state mandated reserves,” it is “I’m hearing a discussion about property HILLS AUTHORIZING AN AMENDMENT TO THE CONTRACT
unclear whether the district will be able to that may be acquired for the purpose or BETWEEN THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS
count the property in its reserves. possible purpose in allowing a residence AND THE BOARD OF ADMINISTRATION OF THE CALIFORNIA PUBLIC
During Tuesday afternoon’s study to be available for the superintendent to EMPLOYEES’ RETIREMENT SYSTEM
session, Chief Administrative Officer rent,” Harris said. “That is something
Dawnalyn Murakawa-Leopard said based clearly within the realm of school-district The proposed resolution of intention will begin the process to amend the
on her research, the home could be listed purpose.” contract between the City of Beverly Hills and the California Public Employees’
as a property asset but the home would In the event an employee is renting the Retirement System (CalPERS) to provide a second tier of retirement benefits to
have to be liquid, and therefore sold, to property at a fraction of fair market value, applicable Safety employees.
be counted in the reserves. Goldberg said the employee, in this case the superinten-
he had been told by LACOE that once dent, could be taxed for the savings dif- Additionally, there will be a first reading of the ordinance which is required to
paid off, the home could be counted in the ferential, since that could be considered modify the agreement between the City of Beverly Hills and the California Public
Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS).
NOTICE OF COmmIssION vaCaNCIEs
All interested persons are invited to attend and speak on this matter. Written
comments may also be submitted and should be addressed to the City Council,
c/o City Clerk, 455 N. Rexford Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210. The comments
should be received prior to the hearing date. If you need more information,
HEALTH AND SAFETY COMMISSION – deadline to apply July 27, 2012 please contact Mark Brower of the Beverly Hills Finance Department at (310)
285-2447.
The Beverly Hills City Council is seeking qualified residents to fill two vacancies
on the Health and Safety Commission. Please note that if you challenge the Council’s action in regards to this matter
in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else
For more information on this Commission position, please visit the City’s website raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence
at www.beverlyhills.org or call the City Clerk’s Office at [phone]. delivered to the City, either at or prior to the public hearing.
BYRON POPE, CMC BYRON POPE, CMC
City Clerk City Clerk
June 28 - July 4, 2012 • Page 
Neman shares
passion for yoga
through teaching
Michelle Neman says yoga
changed her life.
After graduating from
Indiana University in 2009
with a degree in apparel
merchandising, Neman
moved back to Beverly Hills.
She began working for her
family’s textile business, but
she said she found she did
not feel passionate about it.
“During this transition
Left to right: Jenna Newman, Daniel Khalili, Sophie Pollack, Audrey Labib, Otto
of moving back home and
Beenhower, Lexi Shaheri, advisor Paige Lucas, Jordan Kramer, advisor Ellen Kwon,
readjusting to L.A. life, I
Lauren Stein, Isaiah Beenhower, Jack Yunker. Not pictured: Ryan Javidzad, Emma
decided to take a yoga class,”
Sirota
Neman said. “My whole life
El Rodeo student council fundraisers support Tourette flipped upside down from Michelle Neman
that one class.”
Sydrome Association
Neman, a 2005 Beverly High graduate, said she was first introduced to yoga as a
The El Rodeo fourth and fifth-grade student council has raised over $500 for the
freshman at Indiana University, where she took a semester-long class in her dorm
Tourette Syndrome Association from two bake sales May 22 and May 30. At one sale,
building. Four years later, Neman became dedicated to attending yoga classes every
18 dozen cookies sold in just over 10 minutes. The student council chose to hold the
weekend.
fundraisers for TSA in support of fellow El Rodeo students suffering from Tourette
“As I kept going, my life started to change, my perspective on life started to
Syndrome.
change, my outlook started to change,” Neman said. “All this tension and pressure,
we hold it all in. It all starts to build up. As I kept going, these layers started to
Although the property is directly across
briefs cont. from page 3
slowly peel.”
the street from a district school—unlike the
it for investment purposes only or is it Three to four months into practicing yoga regularly, Neman said she knew she
home on North Doheny Drive—Goldberg
housing for the superintendent? Even this wanted to teach yoga.
said he did not consider the parking lot use
afternoon you heard different testimony “I remember telling myself that I want everybody to experience the same feeling
to be an educational use for the district.
from the board itself. Some believe it’s that I feel, the feeling of lightness and happiness and joy and beauty,” Neman said.
“You can say, ‘Well, it’s for teachers,’
primarily for the superintendent and others Throughout her training, Neman said she was introduced to “everything from
just like I can say, ‘Well, this is an invest-
believe it’s for an investment. You’ve got chanting to meditation to yoga trance dance.” She also studied ayurveda, a Hindu
ment, or this is a home for the superinten-
to find out, which is it?” form of alternative medicine that emphasizes creating and maintaining positive
dent,’” Goldberg said.
Goldberg maintains he sees the purchase health and preventing the imbalances that lead to disease.
primarily as an investment opportunity, With 200 hours of training with Shiva Rea and 200 hours of training with Vinnie
McCann named Simi Valley
but Manaster said providing Woods with Marino and Mia Togo and nearly 300 mentorship hours at YogaWorks behind her,
housing was his No. 1 priority related to police chief Neman teaches an all-levels vinyasa flow yoga class Tuesday nights at 7:30 at Up
the purchase. After over Dog Fitness in West Hollywood. As a private instructor, she works with clients
“I intended only to solve a real problem 24 years with ranging from children to older adults.
that we have, which is creating an envi- the Beverly Neman also teaches a women’s group at the Sephardic Temple, but the class is on
ronment in which our leadership wants to Hills Police hiatus for the summer.
remain closely tied to our schools and our Department, Neman said she enjoys introducing yoga to beginners.
school district,” Manaster said. “I found Capt. Mitch “I love teaching them something that they’ve never experienced before and getting
that when you arrive upon an opportu- McCann has them to focus on their breath and letting go of everything else that worries them and
nity and have somebody who is filling the accepted the stresses them out, having them come into this sacred space and having them really
shoes you strive to make them welcome police chief take this time for themselves,” Neman said.
and attach them to their job, their commu- position in Simi In the future, Neman said she wants to teach at more studios and to continue
nity and give them a sense of place.” Valley, where studying yoga.
The board approved the resolution with he lives. “I think I will forever be a student of yoga,” Neman said. “I really just want to
an amendment proposed by Margo stating Mitch McCann “I owe a lot spread the love and joy of yoga. It has had such a great impact on my life that I really
the district wishes to acquire the property to Chief [Dave] want to share it with everybody else.”
for the superintendent’s use as a residence Snowden for
“thus furthering the district’s commitment really encouraging me to strive to become
my home community where my family “I think entering upon our fifth
to attract and retain excellent district lead- a police chief,” McCann said.
has grown up,” McCann said. “I’m very year, we’ve reached a stage with our
ership.” At BHPD, McCann said he had the
grateful and excited for the opportunity.” programming and with our outreach that
The last time the BHUSD bought prop- opportunity to work patrol, special
I think we’re ready to expand,” Davoodi
erty was in 1976 when it purchased the tactics, detective, narcotics and as public
30 Years After hires said.
Beverly Vista Presbyterian Church prop- information officer (PIO).
Davoodi as first executive Davoodi, a 2001 Beverly High graduate,
erty across from Beverly Vista on the cor- “I’ve had a chance to do a lot of different
has 10 years of experience in non-profit
ner of Elm Drive and Gregory Way. That things and I’ve really enjoyed my career director
advocacy and holds a Master’s degree
property, which was not purchased for a here,” McCann said. “I got to be one of T a b b y
in public diplomacy. Davoodi served as
rental investment, is currently used as a the arresting officers on the Menendez Davoodi, 30
30 Years After’s Israel Committee chair
parking lot. The church, which was later brothers case. I was PIO for the Lindsay Years After’s
before serving on the board of directors and
demolished, merged with Beverly Hills Lohan and Lane Garrison cases. There new executive
most recently on the board of trustees.
Presbyterian Church have been a lot of memorable moments, director and the
Davoodi said President Sam Yebri,
“It wasn’t an investment property but but the most memorable to me have been organization’s
who she has known since he was a USC
it’s turned out to be a great investment,” the wonderful people I’ve had to work first staff
law student and she was working for the
Goldberg said. “They spent $500,000 on with and meet during my career in Beverly person, has been
Consulate General of Israel in Los Angeles,
it. People could have second guessed that Hills.” involved with
approached her with the job offer knowing
board as well, but how smart does that McCann, who starts his new job July 16, the organization
Davoodi was about to conclude work at the
decision look today? That piece of prop- is replacing Chief Mike Lewis, who retired since its
USC Center on Public Diplomacy.
erty has got to be worth at least $3.5–$4 last December. inception in
Davoodi said her goal for the organization
million.” “It’s the chance of a lifetime to serve Tabby Davoodi 2007.
is to encourage leadership and participation
Page  • Beverly Hills Weekly
among young Iranian-American Jews in get more involved in,” Foldvary said. Beverly Gardens Park
three areas: civic and political affairs, Foldvary said the commission plans restoration proposes art
connecting to Israel and Judaism, and to get involved in the street surfacing
component; Fine Art
connecting with their own history and and sewer system rehabilitation projects.
Commission continues
heritage. The commission will likely help prioritize
“I’m looking forward to expanding the which streets need resurfacing, Foldvary ordinance clean-up
organization to a point where my own said. The volunteer committee working to
generation will truly feel like it has a voice Although Foldvary said the commission privately fund the restoration of Beverly
within the American political system,” was not involved in the planning of Gardens Park has announced it intends
Davoodi said. “This is something deeply the proposed $10-million public works to dedicate a monument with a sculpture
personal because I just turned 30. The warehouse and compressed natural gas component to recognize the project’s
organization is 30 Years After. It’s really fueling station at the Foothill Road facility, donors.
thrilling to be able to give your own Foldvary said in the future, those are the Beverly Hills resident Steve Gordon,
generation a voice.” types of projects the commission hopes to who is leading the restoration effort, made
Davoodi said her high-school experiences be involved with in their early stages. a presentation to the Fine Art Commission
as news editor for Highlights and summer Foldvary said as new capital improvement last Thursday.
Yayoi Kusama’s Hymn of Life: Tulips
intern at Beverly Hills Courier made public projects are proposed, the commission will “We’re thrilled that committed members
service accessible to her as a youth. make a determination of how it would like of the city are so passionate about restoring Smooke said any public art proposed to
“Even when I was in high school, the to be involved in each project, if at all. our parks,” Commission Chair Terri be installed in the City must go through the
policy makers would give me interviews Smooke said. briefs cont. on page 7
and everyone was always invested in the
voice of the next generation, which is
something I have always appreciated,”
Davoodi said
Davoodi called the opportunity an honor
and a privilege.
“I was born in Iran and I have that
story and experience of coming here
as a young child, and I’m very grateful
for organizations like 30 Years After,”
Davoodi said. “My peers within 30 Years
After are among the cream of the crop of
America’s young Iranian-American Jewish
community.”
Davoodi said the support of donors
including Jewish Community Foundation
of Los Angeles, the Jewish Federation’s
Community Partners Program, and the
Jewish Venture Philanthropy Fund made
her position possible
BRANCH NOW OPEN
M-F 10am -6pm
Public Works Commission AND
Sat 10am - 2pm
continues efforts to seek (complimentary parking
off Hancock)
savings
Following up on a Public Works
Commission subcommittee’s
recommendation that the commission
become more involved in capital
improvement projects to help the City
realize savings, the commission met June
14 to consider how it can put the proposal
into action.
“ T h e
commission
is now going
to be a little
more involved
in the capital
improvement
projects in
whatever way
is appropriate
to help save
some money
Peter Foldvary and convey the
sentiments of
the residents,”
Commission Chair Peter Foldvary said.
At the commission’s most recent meeting, Contact your AAA Travel Agent for more information!
Open Monday-Friday
Foldvary said City Engineer Ara Maloyan CALL
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and Project Administration Director Alan
323.525.0018 #2 Saturday 10am-2pm
Schneider made a presentation to update the
VISIT
commission about projects the department 8761 Santa Monica Blvd
is managing, planning and executing. Land price is per person based on double occupancy for select travel July1-August 31, 2012 and October 1-December 15, 2012. Subject to availability and change, certain restrictions may apply. Some resorts require a city tax which is paid directly to the resort upon check-out, amount varies by resort.
Not responsible for errors or omissions. (Journese acts only as an agent for the various travel providers shown above.) CST 1007939-10. UBI 601 915 263. TAR 5308.
“Now that the commission has a detailed
Rates are per person, based on adult double occupancy. Airfare, taxes, fuel and other surcharges, gratuities, transfers and excursions are additional unless otherwise indicated. Each of the foregoing items, deposits, payment and cancellation terms/conditions are subject to change without notice. Rates, terms, conditions
and availability are subject to change. Certain restrictions may apply. AAA members must make advance reservations through AAA Travel to obtain Member Benefits and savings. Member Benefits may vary depending on departure date. Not responsible for errors or omissions. The Automobile Club of Southern California
description of what is going on, we will acts as an agent for Pleasant Holidays LLC. CTR #1016202-80 Restrictions apply. Copyright © 2012 Automobile Club of Southern California. All rights reserved.
decide which aspects of it we would like to
June 28 - July 4, 2012 • Page 
may be considered by the city and the
fromthehillsofbeverly school district: Moving the route further
south and not digging under any school
property that has or will have buildings
housing students.
My own views on the subway project
Opinions, reflections What continues to be sad and inexplicable are very mixed. I envy those with absolute
is our inability to convince the people in opinions, I’m just not sure. No, I do
the Middle East how much better their not favor a route through the southwest
And some news too
lives would become if they welcomed and under the high school, and clearly
By Rudy cole Israel as a reality. The possibilities of not under a school building. Nor am I
economic and scientific cooperation could convinced that the Santa Monica option
and would vastly improve the lives of the is more hazardous than Constellation or
Arab masses. that ridership would be enhanced by
With Israel’s incredible success in Constellation.
BEYOND BH NOTES what impact the success of a Muslim technology and the massive markets and But I go even further: Would a subway
How times change. Never would have Brotherhood candidate will have on natural resources of the region, by working extension through the Westside and
believed that an election victory by Utah American Mid East interests and, even as friends instead of feared enemies, the Beverly Hills really be beneficial?
Republican Senator Orrin Hatch would more lacking, how this will really impact standard of living for much of the Arab What is lacking in our area is regional
give me such pleasure, but his win over Egypt’s relationship with Israel. world could be raised in one or two planning. We have little or no impact on
an even further to the right Tea Party Egypt’s recognition of the right of generations. This is part of the message development all around us and, make no
contender in that state’s primary Tuesday Israel to even exist, and establishing that must be conveyed. mistake, our traffic problems exist mostly
was heartening. diplomatic relations, changed the entire I just finished reading, for the second because of expansion in Century City,
Hatch was forced into a tough primary dynamics of Middle East politics. Even time, Golda Meier’s autobiography. West Los Angeles and east of Beverly
because his opponent managed to obtain though the new president has, so far, said So many answers to the historical roots Hills and not because of our own modest
sufficient votes at the Utah Republican this does not mean ending diplomatic of continuing Middle East problems development projects, not even close.
convention to send the election to a ballot ties, the possibility of a new chill should including why and how some Palestinians What would be the real impacts of a
vote—something Hatch has avoided for clearly have been part of the reporting, left after the War of Independence and Westside Subway? The Los Angeles City
many years. but it wasn’t—not even in the Los Angeles first steps toward peace negotiations are Council recently approved massive new
However, Republican moderates are Times. brilliantly outlined in her book that it development plans for Hollywood, and
a disappearing species, including the One canard can and should be put to should be used as a guide to answering an element of that movement relates to
recent loss of their most articulate foreign rest: That if there was no Israel, there detractors. subways. Here’s what the Los Angeles
policy spokesperson, Indiana’s Richard would be no Middle East problem. The What is really sad and inexplicable is Times reported (June 20, 2012): (the plan)
G. Lugar. Arab spring and struggles for democracy the loss of support for Israel by many “will make it easier for developers to
News coverage of the disturbing and economic reforms has created populist international youth, labor and liberal build bigger and taller buildings especially
Egyptian elections by our local media has movements almost totally unrelated to groups. How and why the Left could around subway stations.” If that is indeed
been somewhat anemic, mostly ignoring Israel. even consider turning its back on the a major rationale for subway construction,
only true democracy in the region is west Los Angeles is clearly the wrong
a challenge that must be met. Posing place to experiment. We obviously don’t
some simple questions: Treatment of need more massive growth.
Conference Calling
women, freedom of speech and press, and However, there are neglected areas all
economic democracy by Arab nations over the Los Angeles basin that cry for
• Local Numbers Throughout California compared to Israel’s open society has to improvements. If subways help bring that
be more adequately communicated. about, those are the routes that should
• Reservation-based or Reservationless
Or try one simple test on freedom: In have first mass transit, subway installation
• Recording Capability Israel there are constant rallies for peace. priorities.
Can you think of one Arab nation that Of course, the counter argument is that
ever had a public demonstration calling subways will relieve traffic, that people
for peace with Israel? working in and around our city will
5 ¢/minute Local Access
Israel needs to win back the minds abandon the automobile for rapid transit.
10 ¢/minute Toll Free Access of the young people of the world and But if the spiraling impacts encourage
keep repeating the message to the Arab more growth, the scheme would be self
peoples, now more than ever, that their defeating. Answers to those questions are
lives will be so much better by partnering almost as important as route choices.
San Francisco Los Angeles with instead of hating Israel and the What has been totally unacceptable is
United States. the hysterical approach to the problem by
*** some in our community who have used
COMPROMISE ON SUBWAY? the debate to settle old political scores or
There is a possible compromise on advance their own political goals. We can
the route for the proposed Westside and should disagree with those who want
Subway extension being floated that rudy cont. on page 7
Maximum strength analgesic
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Page  • Beverly Hills Weekly
arrest summary cont. on page 9
rudy cont. from page 6 Beverly Hills so special as any other impact my life but really good reading. We can and should explain our
factor, including public safety, an exciting The author was recently hosted at a book differences with elected officials, but in
to tunnel under the high school but we
business district and beautiful homes. signing in Beverly Hills at the home of the context of honest disputes. We have
can do so without attacking their integrity
*** Anne and Jeff Palmer. A portion of the a hard enough time finding qualified
and honest disagreements. Many of our
FINAL NOTES book sales went to “Generation Rescue.” candidates for public office without their
losses in this effort can be attributed to the
Our prolific author/former Mayor *** having to endure mindless attacks on
shrillness of some subway opponents.
Robert K. Tanenbaum has one more For those that may have read elsewhere their integrity. Bullying is simply wrong
Aside from the safety of the school,
publishing success: “Bad Faith,” a novel/ that I have become “the mouthpiece for whether in the playground or public
the possibility of a subway under BHHS
thriller taking RKT back to his New York The Establishment,” my only response is service. Not what we have ever accepted
is and will have enormous effects on
prosecuting experiences. Excellent early don’t give me any of your lip. in Beverly Hills.
our community. Although some of this
reviews and good reading. (Of course, However, if there is really an identifiable
has been self inflicted, the fear of a loss
have to add, although we are still far apart establishment and I have become their Rudy Cole served for eight years
of safety might have strong impacts on
on many local issues, thanks to Patti we voice, we are all in very serious trouble. as a member and chair of the city’s
our property values. New purchases by
can now talk.) I do try hard not to make differences Recreation & Parks Commission. He
parents with school age children could be
Another book I would strongly personal—we are such a small community, was also President of the Greystone
reduced by safety fears. Make no mistake,
recommend is Heather Porter’s “The we all know each other so well, and we Foundation and served on three other
if and when that happens it will impact
Mothers Handbook to Medical, Physical are so fortunate to live and work here, that city committees. Rudy can be reached at:
the whole fabric of our economic life.
and Emotional Well Being,” obviously our disagreements should always be put [email protected].
Schools are as important to what makes
a field of interest that does not directly in perspective and not exaggerated.
briefs cont. from page 5 year-old female, deceased by apparent
gunshot wounds.
Fine Art Commission’s approval process.
The names of the deceased have not
At this time, the committee has not s
proposed a specific piece of art for the yet been released, pending notification of Hill
project, Smooke said. Gordon has said the next-of-kin by the coroner’s office. erly
v
Rosen said the victims were long-term e
goal is to complete the restoration project B
guests and had been staying at the Beverly of
in time for the City of Beverly Hills’ y
Hilton for approximately six months. Cit
centennial celebration in January 2014. o:
The commission also continued its line- Rosen reported Monday afternoon a hot
note was recovered from the scene, but its P
by-line review of the public art ordinance
contents have not been released.
with the goal of clarifying the language
to make it user-friendly. The commission
Roxbury Park liaison meets
is also working on drafting a deaccession
policy so the city has guidelines for selling this Friday
or donating existing public art. The Recreation and Parks liaison com-
Smooke said the commission is a little mittee will meet to discuss plans for
bit more than halfway done with its initial Roxbury Park this Friday at 3 p.m. at City
review of the ordinance. Once that is Hall in Room 280-B.
complete, she said the commission will This will be the liaison’s first meeting
review the ordinance a second time. since the full City Council met May 15
“As we’ve been moving forward we’ve to provide feedback about the community
recognized some places we need to revisit center project. Taste of Broadway participants: Lauren Aviram, Joshua Back, Isaiah Berke,
that we already looked at to make sure At that meeting, the City Council agreed Gabriella Bina, Marina Buenida, Isabella Cantu-Buck, Edden Chimomas, Stephanie
everything is consistent,” Smooke said. to contract an architect to create a concept Choa, Kathleen Choe, Aydan Cohen, Adora Dayani, Mia De Castro Basto, Audrey
The commission also received an update for a new one-story Roxbury Park com- De Leon, Veronica Demornay-O’neal, Candice Emrani, Zoe Gale, Amy Geller,
from Ironwood, the fabricator of Yayoi munity center and the field restroom on the Caroline German, Claire German, Rose Gifford, Rachel Gilbert, Mimi Guetta,
Kusama’s Hymn of Life: Tulips in Beverly west side of the park. Charlene Hadim, Trevor Hart, Malea Hayles, Becca Heller, Melinda Heluo,
Gardens Park that will be restoring the Friday’s agenda includes an introduc- Madeline Hodor, Ryan Hodor, Ben Holtzman, Angelina Izzet, Amanda Khodabash,
work this summer. tion of RTK, the architecture firm that is Aaron Kohanbash, Daniel Kohanbash, Addison Kreshek, Jasmine Larian, Taylor
Smooke said it appears the top protective designing the concept, and a review of the LaVan-Asla, Sarah Lepkowitz, Stephanie Lopez, Elizabeth Loranger, Katharine
coating of the piece did not hold and has design progress. Loscalzo, Charlotte Lyon-Petrovic, Chloe Malik-MacDonald, Alessandra Maresca,
contributed to the appearance the piece Daniel Maresca, Solomon Margo, Emma Maurer, Naomi Mayzels, Adriana Medina-
is dulling. Since the piece is still under Sleisenger named Beverly Santiago, Maya Mejia, Natasha Melamed, Eliana Morris, Eli Okum, Jonah Okum,
warranty, Ironwood will be doing the work High Class of 2012 top Lisa Park, Nikki Pourebrahim, Leo Ramos-Vergara, Natalie Ramos-Vergara, Estella
at no cost to the City, Smooke said. Rosen, Melina Rosen, Batia Rotshtein, Chloe Rebibo, Benni Safchik, Jessica Sater,
scholar
“It will take about two weeks they Scott Senior, Basel Shahin, Isaac Solouk, Elnaz Soumikh, Sofi Spitz, Ciel Torres,
estimate [to restore] and the piece will have J a r e d Manuela Torres, Julia Weinstock, Camilla Wolff, Sarah Yadidian, Brooke Yankowitz,
a fence around it,” Smooke said. “We’re Sleisenger was Ross Yankowitz, Matthew Zebrowski
honored last
really pleased because this is at a time
week with the There’s no business like show business
when we have a lot of people visiting the
Faculty Cup, Students from all four BHUSD K-8 schools participated in Taste of Broadway’s
park, so it will be wonderful for them to be
which is awarded “The Magical Music of Broadway” performance at Beverly High on June 18 and
able to see what we do to maintain a piece
to the student 19. The show was directed, choreographed and written by Jenny Gordon and songs
of art. It’s a great learning opportunity. I
with the highest included selections from Les Miserables, Swing!, Follies and High School Musical 2.
see this as a positive rather than looking at
total GPA in Taste of Broadway is offered by the City of Beverly Hills’ Community Services
is as interference with the piece.”
Beverly High’s Department.
2012 graduating
BHPD investigates alleged
class. made.” This past year, he was Beverly High’s
murder-suicide at Beverly
Jared Sleisenger Sleisenger, As a freshman, Sleisenger co-founded vice president of the National Honors
Hilton who will the Student Body Action Committee, which Society. With his peers, Sleisenger
BHPD Spokesperson Lt. Mark Rosen attend Harvard was formed to address issues students felt organized a beach cleanup and bone cancer
said Monday afternoon BHPD continues University, was recognized at Senior needed attention at the high school. awareness effort.
to investigate an apparent murder-suicide Awards Night June 20. “We worked on a campaign to boost the The Faculty Cup, which was first
that occurred last Friday evening at the “It’s a nice culmination to everything API score,” Sleisenger said. presented in 1932, is the school’s oldest
Beverly Hilton. I’ve done throughout high school,” Sleisenger said he was involved in the award and the equivalent of a valedictorian
BHPD officers arrived on the scene at Sleisenger said of the honor. “It’s flattering French Department and enjoyed playing award. It is traditionally based on seven
approximately 10:50 p.m. and found the to receive the award, to be recognized piano and oboe as part of the annual
briefs cont.on page 11
bodies of a 70-year-old male and a 56- for the academic accomplishments that I French Cabaret.
June 28 - July 4, 2012 • Page 
people
Second Generation
&
pictures Beverly High Graduates
Photos: Michael Bezjian
Dean Davidov ‘91, Iris Davidov Aviram ‘84, Arianna Aviram ‘12, and Shirley Davidov Sherman ‘79 Glenn Roeder ‘73, Jacob Roeder ‘12, Tracy Gumbiner ‘76, and Nora Roeder ‘12
Arianna will be attending The New School. Jacob will be attending the University of Puget Sound and Nora will be attending the University of Oregon.
Nadav Laemmle ‘12, Gabe Laemmle ‘12, Nancy Tishkoff Laemmle ‘77, and Ezra Laemmle ‘12
Nadav will be attending California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, Gabe will be attending the University of Ron Stone ‘76, Talia Stone ‘10, Carly Stone ‘12, and Ronit Mandelbaum Stone ‘79
Washington, and Ezra will be attending the University of Alabama. Carly will be attending Vanderbilt University.
Albert Hakimi ‘83, Colette Hakimi ‘12, and Shahrzad Shabanian ‘85 Julia Frazer ‘10, Eric Frazer ‘12, and Teresa Finn Frazer ‘81
Colette will be attending California Polytechnic State University, Pomona. Eric will be attending the University of California, Santa Cruz.
Andy Licht ‘75 and Lucy Licht ‘12 Gail Winthrop DiPritzo ‘77 and Sarah Pollock ‘12 Heidi Uzelac ‘12 and Diane Forrest ‘84
Lucy will be attending the University of Michigan. Sarah will be attending Indiana University. Heidi will be attending the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising.
Page  • Beverly Hills Weekly
Samantha Galen ‘12, Douglas Galen ‘82, and Josh Galen ‘12 Sophie Cannon ‘07, Emma Cannon ‘12, and Sadie Mestman ‘75
Samantha will be attending the University of Texas at Austin and Josh will be attending the University of Michigan. Emma will be attending California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.
Third Generation
Graduates
Lisa Redston Schwartz ‘75, Kyle Kay ‘09, Mark Schwartz ‘74, Ben Platt ‘80, Jennifer Redston ‘09, Andrew Redston ‘12, and Scott Redston ‘74
Andrew will be attending Indiana University.
Alfred Swartz ‘56, Max Schwartz ‘12, and Jennifer Terrell Schwartz ‘82
Max will be attending the University of Southern California.
Mark Grossan ‘73, Madison Grossan ‘12, Ally Jane Grossan ‘06, Bruce Grossan ‘80, and Melissa Grossan ‘70
Madison will be attending the University of Puget Sound.
Alice Sommer Gold ‘74, Andrew Gold ‘12, and Daniel Gold ‘09. Not pictured:
Gerre Turk Gold S’48. Andrew will be attending the University of Wisconsin.
Jonathan Botach ‘73 and Adam Botach ‘12 Michelle Omidi ‘12 and Israela Barkhordarfard Omidi ‘90
Adam will be joining the Israel Defense Forces. Michelle will be attending the University of Oregon.
Marc Rose ‘79, Danielle Rose ‘12, Cheryl Kabrin Rose ‘79, and Jessica Rose
‘11. Not pictured: Irene Gilberg Kabrin ‘51. Danielle will be attending California
Robbie Countryman ‘83 and Cameron Countryman ‘12 Nicole Avant ‘86 and Sarah Sarandos ‘12
State University, Northridge.
Cameron will be attending the University of Pennsylvania. Sarah will be attending the University of Southern California.
June 28 - July 4, 2012 • Page 
coverstory
his family decided to send him to middle school. For fans of The Hunger Games,
Taniguchi recommends The Maze Runner series by James Dashner. For a lighter read,
Taniguchi suggests Mr. and Mrs. Bunny—Detectives Extraordinaire by Polly Horvath
and baseball story Plunked by Michael Northrop.
summer reading
High school
Students entering honors and AP English cours-
es in the fall should have no trouble finding some-
thing to read this summer.
All freshmen through seniors enrolled in the
advanced classes must read and annotate three
books in preparation for an assessment test that
counts for 10 percent of the semester grade.
What are your neighbors reading?
This year’s selections include literary stan-
By Melanie Anderson dards like J.D. Salinger’s Catcher in the Rye,
William Golding’s Lord of the Flies and John
Steinbeck’s The Grapes of Wrath, and also some
City contemporary titles including Dave Eggers’ A
Although the Beverly Hills Public Library does Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius and
not offer an official summer reading program for Maxine Hong Kingston’s Woman Warrior.
adults, the Great Books Discussion Group will Students can count their required reading
continue to meet throughout the summer on the toward the Beverly Hills Public Library’s new
second and fourth Mondays at 6 p.m. at City Teen Summer Reading Club, Own the Night,
Hall. which will culminate with an after-hours party
Readers will discuss Geoffrey Chaucer’s The and movie screening at the library on Aug. 21.
Pardoner’s Tale and The Wife of Bath on July Students who read the equivalent of 18 hours will be rewarded with a free paperback
9, Eugene Ionesco’s Rhinoceros on July 23, and book, and students who read a total of 36 hours will be rewarded with a $10 Amazon.
John Locke’s A Letter Concerning Toleration and com gift certificate.
Kurt Vonnegut’s 2BRO2B on Aug. 13. High-school students can also log community service hours by volunteering at read-
The Friends of the Public Library’s Book Club ing club events. For more information, visit bhpl.org.
is taking a break in July and August, but readers For historical fiction readers, Taniguchi recommends Code Name Verity by Elizabeth
can get a head start on the September selection, Wein, which is set in Nazi-occupied France. For lighter fare, Taniguchi suggests The
The White Woman on the Green Bicycle by False Prince by Jennifer Nielsen.
Monique Roffey. The club will meet Sept. 4 and
12 at 10:15 a.m. and Sept. 20 at 1 p.m. to discuss What are you reading?
the novel. Planning Commissioner Howard Fisher says he reads
Friends President Charlotte Skura said the about one book every five days, two-thirds of them on his
book club has become such a hit, it meets three times a month to discuss each title in Kindle.
order to accommodate all readers. This summer he plans to catch up on Lee Child’s Jack
“That speaks to what reading means in our [community],” Skura said. Reacher series, James Patterson and Clive Cussler thriller
What’s on City Librarian Nancy Hunt-Coffey’s summer reading list? Woman with novels, and Jeffery Deaver’s mysteries.
Crows, new poetry by Ruth Thompson, Home by Toni Morrison, and City of Lost Souls When asked what Fisher likes about the books, he
by Cassandra Clare. said it’s “mindless entertainment.” Fisher said he also
enjoys reading classics because “people are so used to
Children the Hollywood version.” For example, Fisher said Mary
School’s out, but the Beverly Hills Public Shelley’s Frankenstein is “really somewhat of a love story
Library’s Summer Reading Club, for readers in about how he wants a mate. It’s not the same horror [as
sixth grade and below, is just getting started. depicted in the movies].”
“The goal of the program is to encourage kids
to discover how much fun reading is over the In terms of summer reading, student Board of Education
summer,” Library Services Manager Marilyn member Jason Friedman’s first priority will be reading
Taniguchi said. “In order to do that we celebrate AP English required titles, Virgil’s epic Aeneid, the Bible
the reading accomplishments and provide lots and Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe.
of reinforcement from all of our staff and some “[Aeneid is] very reminiscent of The Odyssey. It requires
nice treat incentives as well.” quite a bit of background information, but it’s a good
Upon registration, the library provides par- book. It’s entertaining,” Friedman said.
ticipants with a book bag including a bookmark If time permits, Friedman said he would like to read
and a reading log. Participants who read eight Walter Isaacson’s biography Steve Jobs.
books or 1,000 pages are rewarded with prizes “I heard it was a really interesting book,” Friedman
including a free paperback book and a youth said. “[Jobs] was such a revolutionary thinker and it’s
ticket to Legoland. very contemporary.”
Taniguchi said this year’s theme, Dream Big
Read!, is intended to show children the journey This summer, Fine Art Commission Chair Terri Smooke
they can take through reading. plans to read books about art and female leaders: Rebels
For younger readers, the library offers storytime, which will take place Monday in Paradise: The Los Angeles Art Scene and the 1960s by
through Thursday beginning July 9 in the new Teen Zone, since the children’s library Hunter Drohojowska-Philp, Provenance: How a Con Man
is currently undergoing renovation. The library will also offer an interactive “Can’t and a Forger Rewrote the History of Modern Art by Lany
Sit Still Storytime” on Wednesdays at 11:15 a.m. and a Baby Storytime on Fridays at Salisbury and Aly Sujo, Catherine the Great: Portrait
10:30 a.m. of a Woman by Robert Massie, and Cleopatra: A Life by
Starting July 10, “Terrific Tuesdays” will feature kid-friendly entertainment acts in Stacy Schiff.
Civic Center Plaza at 3:30 p.m. “I like reading history,” Smooke said. “Catherine the
The Summer Reading Club will officially launch this Sunday with a party featuring Great and Cleopatra were two pretty powerful women.
children’s musician Dan Crow in Civic Center Plaza at 5:30 p.m. They definitely changed the times in which they lived.”
This year, Taniguchi said “everyone’s talking about” Wonder by R.J. Palacio, which Naturally, Smooke said she also loves reading about
tells the story of a boy with a facial disfigurement who was home-schooled up until art. She said Rebels in Paradise interests her because
Page 10 • Beverly Hills Weekly