Rest In Peace, Huell Howser

I’ve been in awe of Huell Howser since I first started watching his “Videolog” shows on KCET way back when dinosaurs like Payphoneasaurus and Eveningnewspaperus Rex still roamed the earth. In other words: a LONG time ago. Not only was I immediately impressed with the infectious, manchild-like enthusiasm and energy he brought to exploring so …

Racial Coventry In Our Own Backyard — Literally

I’m familiar enough with the history of this country to be aware of and repulsed by the prevalent use of racially restrictive covenants that prohibited property ownership and occupation — a completely legal practice that stood in place until it was overturned by the US Supreme Court in 1948. A restrictive covenant is basically a …

Last Ride Of The Year

I joined some of my fellow Glendale Trail Safety Patrol volunteers — Paul, Rafi and Mark — and we tackled the Brand Motorway from bottom to top, with a side trip over to Tongva Peak before heading back down: For all the riding I’ve done in the Verdugos, I haven’t rolled up or down the …

Give A Little Bit

On Christmas Eve morning Susan and I set out in the light rain for a Silver Lake walkabout that turned into an almost-six-mile loop around our wonderful neighborhood. We discovered new stuff, like this colorfully reborn parking meter we dropped a couple coins into where it stands just south of Rowena on West Silver Lake …