The Sheila Agnes Nature Preserve the Story at the Hairpin Curve

25880 BCA Newsletter 2009 9/30/09 1:52 PM Page 1

Fall 2010BenedictBenedict Canyon Association Canyon Newsletter Volume V Issue 14

The Sheila Agnes Nature Preserve The Story At The Hairpin Curve

by Kathryn Leigh Scott

he story of the Sheila Agnes and the DC-9, with Sheila Agnes the youngest of nine children, and Nature Preserve in Benedict aboard, crashed into a sea wall on its the family favorite. “We all loved TCanyon begins with a sad end- approach to Boston’s Logan Interna- her. It was the only time I saw my ing on the morning of July 31, 1973. tional Airport. Young Sheila Agnes father weep,” said her sister, Mary Fourteen-year-old Sheila Agnes was among the eighty-nine passen- Louise Frawley. “Her camp coun- Frawley had arranged to leave early gers who perished. selor wrote a letter to my parents that from the summer camp she’d been was so lovely, but terribly painful.” attending in Burlington, Vermont. Mary Louise remembers her sister as She was to join family members outgoing, funny, sweet-natured and from Los Angeles on a rafting trip very smart. “She was kind-hearted in Boise, Idaho. On her way to the and caring, never wanting to hurt airport for her connecting flight to anyone’s feelings. She would beat Boston that morning, Sheila Agnes me playing chess and then pass it off realized she’d left behind her airline as just luck!” ticket. The counselor driving the girl “She was good at everything,” to the airport, swung back to camp to another sister, Eileen Callahan, re- pick up the ticket and still managed calls. “And it was all so effortless. to make it to Burlington in time for She was a good student, athletic, Sheila Agnes to catch the Delta Air- spoke French, and was wonderful lines flight. Relieved that she would with animals. Mostly I remember make her connection in Boston, her unique empathy with people. Sheila Agnes stopped to smile and She was so light-hearted and enter- wave goodbye to her camp counselor taining.” Eileen named her daughter before hurrying to board the aircraft. News of her death devastated after Sheila Agnes, who had brought Shortly after 11 a.m. that morn- her parents and her eight broth- so much sunshine and laughter to the ing, the pilot of Flight 723 attempted ers and sisters. Sheila Agnes, with family. an instrument landing in heavy fog sandy blond hair and blue eyes, was Cont. pg. 4

INSIDE THIS ISSUE The Sheila Agnes Nature Preserve, pg. 1. . . .A Letter from the President, pg. 2. . . .Mission Statement, pg. 3. . . .Top Ten Reasons To Become A BCA Board Member, pg. 4. . . .New BCA Board Member: Brittney Post, pg. 5. . . .Stop Gas...Automatically, pg. 5. . . .“Easy Street”: ...Not Paved With Gold, pg. 6. . . . “This Land Was Made For You And Me”, pg. 7. . . .Septic Or Sewer...You Really Need To Know, pg. 7. . . .“Treasured” Memories”, pg. 8. . . .2010 BCA Membership Application, pg. 9. . . .2010 “Trees of Support” Donor Program Roster, pg. 10. . . .Bird, Bath & Beyond, pg. 11. . . .This Is Your Captain Speaking, pg. 12. . . .“Enchanged Hill”, pg. 13. . . .Ravens May Be “Unkind” But Crows Are “Murder”, pg. 14. . . .In My Canyon View, pg. 15. . . .Don Fenmore 1939-2010, pg. 16. . . .Paramedics – An Expensive Ride, pg. 16. . . .Fire Station 99 Turns “Green”, pg. 17. . . .Who Is For The Animals?, pg. 19 BCA Newsletter (310) 553-4BCA benedictcanyon.org

Letter from the President

“Whatever course you decide upon, there is always someone to tell you that you are wrong. There are always difficulties arising which tempt you to believe that your critics are right. To map out a course of action and follow it to an end requires…courage.”

-Ralph Waldo Emerson

Are you looking up through the canyon or looking down through the canyon? Recently, in the very early morning hours, I was summoned from a restful sleep by the screeching of red-tail hawks, perching in the lofty branches, somewhere “up there”. Making my way to the backyard, I found myself “face to face” with the steep, lush, western canyon wall – ascending up through small windows of blue sky, framed by the canopy of a variety of trees. I search for them, the hawks. I make my way to Benedict Canyon Drive in front of my house to get a broader view, but to no avail. Up and down the street I wander, my eyes and ears attentive to their cries.

What are they saying? From their vantage point, looking down on their perfect domain, I can’t help but believe they are saying to us all – get up! Don’t waste away the day. Come on outside. Admire and rejoice at the beauty before you, the beauty of Benedict Canyon.

Today, I challenge you. Whether you are looking up or down The Canyon from where you reside, I ask you to help us protect our unique community. As Emerson is quoted “…map out a course of action and follow it to an end”. Map out of course of action to support your homeowners’ association, The Benedict Canyon Association, the oldest, continuous active homeowners’ association in Los Angeles. That might mean simply joining by writing a check today. Complete the membership application included in this newsletter by selecting a level of support. You might expand on a course of action by attending our monthly meetings at the Beverly Hills Women’s Club, located at 1700 Chevy Chase Drive. “Your” meetings take place on the second Monday of each month and begin at 7:00 p.m. Come and get the facts on your increasing DWP rates. Want to know how to interpret those confusing brush clearance notices? What about the construction next door, and, by the way, how do you contact your councilmember about potholes or other annoyances and concerns? Want to expand your course of action further? Ask about becoming a board member on this all volunteer organization and participate on a variety of committees, from land use to traffic and safety, just to name a few. Visit the BCA website at www.benedictcanyon.org for a complete list.

The next time you find yourself driving into The Canyon from the top of Mulholland Drive, or from the flats of Beverly Hills, maybe even upon awaking in the early morning to the sounds of red tail hawks, look up, look down, through Benedict Canyon - your domain. Enjoy it. Respect it. Protect it. Join us. Sincerely,

Michael L. Chasteen President, Benedict Canyon Association

Fall 2010 2 Volume V Issue 14 25080 BCA Newsletter Summer 2008 7/11/08 12:41 PM Page 3

BCABCA Newsletter Newsletter (310)(310) 553-4BCA 553-4BCA benedictcanyon.org benedictcanyon.org

Benedict Canyon Association OUR MISSION: To promote, advance, further and protect the community interests and general welfare of the homeowners and residents residing in the general area of Benedict Canyon Drive.

WHO ARE WE? We are a 100% volunteer organization made up of area residents. All of our work is funded by donations. We are not sanctioned by any entity.

WHAT DO WE DO? Monitor ongoing projects, programs and policies by private entities and city agencies outside our area which may impact or set precedent for land use and development within the canyon. Monitor crime, safety, traffic, development and quality of life in the canyon. We have four seats on the Bel Air-Beverly Crest Neighborhood Council, an officially recognized component of our city government. We have one executive seat on The Federation of Hillside and Canyon Associations. Preservation and beautification of our Canyon.

WHAT DO WE PROVIDE FOR OUR MEMBERS? Annual meeting for members at the Beverly Hills Hotel Monthly meetings open to the public at the Beverly Hills Women’s Club Representation at greater Los Angeles civic meetings Representation at the West Los Angeles division of LAPD Emergency preparedness information Regularly published newsletter Hotline: (310) 553-4BCA Website: www.benedictcanyon.org

WHEN AND WHERE DO WE MEET? The Second Monday of every month Beverly Hills Women’s Club (Benedict Canyon Drive @ Chevy Chase Drive) 7:00 P.M. - 9:00 P.M. Open to the public Free parking Refreshments

Volume VV IssueIssue 14 12 3 SummerFall 20082010 BCA Newsletter (310) 553-4BCA benedictcanyon.org

SHEILA AGNES . . . Cont. from pg. 1 Top Ten Reasons To Become On Monday, August A BCA Board Member 6, 1973, a funeral mass was held for Sheila by Joanne Savage Agnes at the Church of The Good Shep- herd in Beverly Hills. 10. ATTEND BCA meetings at the historic “We miss her terribly,” Eileen says. Beverly Hills Women’s Club Building. “She had such great potential. I don’t know what she (complimentary parking) would have done with her life, but she could have been anything.” 9. MEET people who may turn out to be Sheila Agnes’ father, Patrick Joseph Frawley, a wealthy lifelong friends. Nicaraguan industrialist (Paper Mate and Schick) had given (the original social networking) his daughters a 30.7 acre parcel of land in Upper Benedict Canyon as an investment property. In August 1992, when the tract of lush woodland they had tried to develop with 8. BECOME a journalist or a photographer builders Don and Ken Bourguignon was denied planning for the BCA Newsletter. permission, the sisters entered into a sale agreement with (no pay but great bylines) the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority. The acquisition of this parkland helped to preserve a continuous 7. EAT homemade baked goods and sip fresh band of open space for wildlife movement between Griffith coffee at BCA monthly meetings. Park and Topanga State Park. The combined sale and do- (doggie bags available) nation of the Frawley/Bourginon property was agreed upon for the below-market price of $1.3 million. In appreciation 6. VOICE your concerns each month to of the Frawley sisters: Joan Desmond, Barbara Ross, Mary Joan Pelico, Chief Deputy for Councilman Louise Frawley and Eileen Callahan, and in memory of their youngest sister, the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Paul Koretz. Authority resolved to name the property the Sheila Agnes (Let Freedom Ring!) Nature Preserve. Councilman Zev Yaroslavsky, members of the San- 5. SOCIALIZE at BCA special events. ta Monica Mountains Conservancy and other dignitaries (and still be home before midnight) joined family and friends Wednesday afternoon, April 14, 1993, to celebrate the dedication of the Sheila Agnes Na- 4. LEARN the solutions to Canyon problems. ture Preserve. More than seventy-five guests attended the (everyone will want to be your friend) outdoor celebration at the home of singer-songwriter, Don Henley, whose property on Mulholland Drive was adjacent to the nature preserve. Earlier that day, close family mem- 3. SEE LAPD Senior Lead Officer Chris bers and friends had attended a private dedication at the sign Ragsdale report each month on area crime. on the property. Both Mary Louise and Eileen remember the (while wearing a tight shirt and commemoration as a “very moving tribute” to their sister. toting a gun) “It was a beautiful day and most of our family was able to attend,” Mary Louise says. “The dedication was such a 2. RECEIVE community recognition joyous occasion. There was so much sadness when Sheila during the BCA Annual Meeting at the world Agnes died; just so much feeling of loss. Twenty years famous Beverly Hills Hotel Ballroom. later, we could look back and remember how wonderful (get a personalized name tag) she was, and how much she meant to our family. Everyone loved her.” Next time you drive up the canyon, just at the hairpin 1. BE the coolest person in your curve, think about Sheila Agnes, a life that ended too soon. neighborhood. n

Fall 2010 4 Volume V Issue 14 BCA Newsletter (310) 553-4BCA benedictcanyon.org

New BCA Board Member: Brittney Post

rittney Post and her husband, Matthew Post, are new to The Canyon. “We love the fact that we live in such a wild and natural environment, while being so close to the exciting Bcity life.” They moved to The Canyon in late 2009 when they fell in love with their 1926 Tudor Revival Home which they plan to restore. The desire to become part of the canyon community and donate time and energy to The Canyon, prompted Brittney to become a BCA Board Member in 2010. In addition to working with The Board and loving her new “old” home with her husband and two Jack Russell Terriers, she is an executive with an action sports brand in Los Angeles. As director of research and development, she also stays current with innovative ways to problem solve. She has spent years traveling to Asia for work, but has since been able to slow down the travel and carve out some time to spend at home in The Canyon. She dedicates her efforts to issues that are close to her heart, such as helping the elderly and injured soldiers return- ing from war. She hopes to be an asset to The Board, and encourages other canyon residents to get involved. “You don’t have to be a long time resident….It truly takes a village, and as a group, we can keep our community safe and clean while moving forward with innovative goals.” Please come meet Brittney and other current board members at the next monthly BCA meeting. n Stop Gas…Automatically

by Barbara Nichols

t’s the middle of the night, and yes, we are having an emergency response resources may not be available. earthquake! You scramble out of bed, not to get to a Most plumbing contractors are authorized to install the Isafe place, but to get a flashlight, robe and slippers. Automatic Gas Shut-Off Valve. They may need to check your You rush to the garage to try to find a wrench. You run gas meter and piping first to determine the size of the existing outside to the gas meter stuck behind the bushes to turn off gas pipe manifold and the condition of your existing piping. the gas, but the wrench won’t turn. You smell gas. Too Some people have avoided installing the gas shut-off late…disaster! valve for fear that a minor earthquake would shut This is the scenario that may occur if you have put off down their gas and they would need to wait for the getting an Automatic Gas Shut-Off Valve. When this ap- Gas Company to come out and reset the valve and paratus is attached to your gas meter, it will automatically re-light pilot lights. The Gas Company recom- turn off your gas if an earthquake is of sufficient magnitude mends that they, or a qualified professional, reset to possibly rupture a gas line (five or greater on the Richter the valve and verify that no leaks exist to en- Scale). Do you know that about half of the gas related sure that all of your gas appliances are safe fires after the 1994 Northridge before placing them back in operation. earthquake could have been Properly installed, the Gas Shut-Off valve prevented with Automatic Gas will only activate in a severe earthquake. Shut-Off Valves? The cost to install the Automatic Gas A Los Angeles City Ordi- Shut-Off Valve is between $300-475 for nance calls for these valves to be valve sizes from 3/4” to 1 1/2”. As an installed in all new construction added benefit, many homeowners’ insurance with gas piping and all existing policies offer a yearly discount on premiums if structures sold within one year of you have an Automatic Gas Shut Off Valve in- the close of escrow. Any exist- stalled. After the initial payback, you will save ing building which has $10,000 or money with the valve. What a great investment. more in renovations must also have The Automatic Gas Shut-Off Valve is a one installed. If a gas pipe breaks one time expense that is well worth the or leaks gas in an earthquake, the cost to avoid the possible destruction gas can cause an explosion, fire or of your home, and perhaps even the loss of suffocation at the very time when your life. n

Volume V Issue 14 5 Fall 2010 BCA Newsletter (310) 553-4BCA benedictcanyon.org

REAL ESTATE IN BENEDICT CANYON - by Aron Kincaid

“So, you don’t have any problems with small pets at your rental?”

“Easy Street”…Not Paved With Gold

by Brittney Post

uring the heavy rains, The Canyon takes a bit of concrete flow-line and entrance way. While the work was a beating. The traffic gets bad as the roads get conducted, all residents continued to have access to the Dworse. Recently, I began to notice the debris com- roadway while traffic was controlled by the crew. “We al- ing down from the 1400 block of Benedict Canyon, other- ways try and work together with the cooperation of the wise known locally as “Easy Street”. I accepted the reality residents to make the job go as smoothly as possible, and that the road would probably continue to shoot debris onto this job did just that”, said Mr. Owen, project manager on Benedict Canyon with each rain. After all, this is a private the job. “Getting neighbors involved can sometimes be a street and the neighbors would have to be responsible for tough job in itself. No one really wants to dish out money repaving the road. Each time a heavy rain came, the city these days and especially for a shared roadway. Fortunate- would have to come out to clean up the rather large amount ly, a resident on the street, decided to grab the ‘broken bull of debris, which slowed traffic on Benedict Canyon. by the horns’ and get everyone together. Once the funds I was driving home a few months ago and I noticed were in place and the weather was right we broke ground.” that a crew had the street blocked off. It looked like the I was pleasantly surprised that neighbors in Benedict street was getting a face lift. I pulled over to speak with Canyon came together to repave their private drive. It the project manager and, to my surprise, I was told it was a makes the Canyon not only beautiful for all to enjoy, but complete street overhaul. also safer to travel on. The project took approximately two weeks to com- “Thanks” to the residents of “Easy Street.” n plete with several days needed just for “dry time” on the

Fall 2009 6 Volume V Issue 14 BCA Newsletter (310) 553-4BCA benedictcanyon.org

“…This Land Was Made For You And Me” BCA’S Land Use Committee

by David Elson, Esq.

CA’s Land Use Committee is responsible for moni- After obtaining the needed information, the Land Use toring and, when necessary, investigating new de- Committee determines whether it is appropriate for the BCA Bvelopment and other land use issues in The Canyon. to take a public position on a particular application. If it is The Land Use Committee includes architects, attorneys, necessary, the Land Use Committee will prepare a written real estate brokers, builders, historians and others with ex- position which will be communicated to City planning of- perience and/or expertise in dealing with development is- ficials with the signature of BCA’s President. When it is sues in The Canyon. Through the Bel Air Beverly Crest appropriate, a member of the Land Use Committee may Neighborhood Council, the Land Use Committee now re- also appear at a public hearing on an application. The Land ceives regular updates that reference each new land use ap- Use Committee also seeks support for its positions from the plication in the City, separately listed by council districts. Neighborhood Council through BCA Board members who Using these updates, the Land Use Committee focuses on serve as BCA representatives to the Neighborhood Council. land use applications within The Canyon. If an applica- The Land Use Committee took the lead in several of tion appears to have potential significant consequences for BCA’s best known efforts. One was BCA’s successful op- neighbors or other residents of The Canyon, the Land Use position to the late Mark Hughes’ attempt to develop what Committee investigates the application and obtains further has become known as the “Merv Griffin property” on 152 information. In the last year, the Land Use Committee has acres at the end of Tower Grove Drive. The Land Use been able to employ an outside individual with experience Committee wrote the legislation that led to the enactment working with the City’s Planning Department who can of the City’s retaining wall ordinance, which limits the expeditiously locate the needed information. The Land height, spacing, and number of retaining walls which may, Use Committee often offers to meet with applicants and/ as a matter of right, be built on a hillside lot. This was a or their representatives in an effort to resolve any issues of “landmark decision” for the BCA. concern to the BCA. The Land Use Committee is also responsible for If necessary, the Land Use Committee will take steps BCA’s dealings with the Santa Monica Mountain Con- to notify neighbors and other residents who may be affect- servancy, including BCA’s ongoing efforts to insure that ed by a land use application. For example, those residents SMMC lives up to its brush clearance obligations. who live on a haul route for a large residential develop- It may sound dry, but this is one of BCA’s most impor- ment, and who otherwise would not receive notice from tant committees. Their work actually helps to preserve and the City, will get a notice from the BCA. protect the beauty of The Canyon for all of us. n Septic Or Sewer…You Really Need To Know

by Barbara Nichols

o you know for sure if your property is connected to the city sewer or a septic system? Surprisingly, many homeowners just assume that all homes in Benedict Canyon are connected to the city sewer. Some properties in our area Dwere never connected to the city sewer and homeowners are on septic systems. Currently, when a home is bought or sold the purchaser receives a report from the Building Department called the “9A Report”. This document will indicate whether the property is connected to the city sewer. Unfortunately this report is often overlooked by both buyers and sellers. Connection to the city sewer requires a sewer connect permit which should be on file with the building department. If the sewer was connected without a permit and a permit is obtained later it can be costly. Homeowners can also check the “sewer” charges on their Water and Power bills to see if they are being charged for a sewer connection. Sometimes homeowners are on septic systems and may be erroneously charged for a sewer connection. Why is this issue so important? The system of either type must be properly maintained. Septic systems should be Cont. pg. 8

Volume V Issue 14 7 Fall 2010 BCA Newsletter (310) 553-4BCA benedictcanyon.org

“Treasured” Memories $ by Alan Fine, BCA Treasurer $ n the spring of 1967, I moved into Benedict Canyon In the late seventies, we had one of the wettest winters with my young wife, Barbara, and baby son. We had in memory. Benedict Canyon was turned into a muddy tor- Ilooked at a house near Century City, which I wanted to rent. I was driving up The Canyon with my family when buy. My wife fell in love with the house in the secluded the car in front of us stalled. I was unable to turn around or Canyon, but I was darned if I was going to pay the exor- move; we were stuck. I took my two young children by the bitant price of $39,000. No way could I, just starting my hand and we sloshed through the knee-deep waters until accounting practice, afford monthly mortgage payments of we were safely home. When I looked around, my wife was close to $250. We argued and guess who won? nowhere to be seen. After what seemed like an eternity Not long after I moved in, someone told me about the and much anxiety, the phone rang. She had taken refuge in BCA and I attended the next meeting, which, at that time, a house close to the car and decided to wait for the waters was held at a member’s home. to subside. We all breathed a sigh of relief. Sure enough, a few months later the little old Dutch I remember when lower Benedict was resurfaced. The lady who kept the books resigned, and the BCA Board, street was closed to through traffic for weeks. Suddenly finding a live CPA on their doorstep, duly anointed me The Canyon was transported back to The Thirties – a dirt Treasurer. Every couple of months, the president would road and hardly any traffic. Ah, what bliss! sit down at his typewriter (remember those?) and churn I shiver whenever I think of the Tate-LaBianca mur- out a two-page newsletter, updating members on current ders in 1969, knowing that Charles Manson’s gang drove issues in The Canyon. I would run down to a print shop in right past my house after it happened. Beverly Hills, where it would be mimeographed (remem- One day, I heard a noise in my backyard. I looked out ber that?) one page, two sides. Then the $10 dues checks and there was a young grey fox rummaging in the bushes. would come flying in! I called animal control, and very shortly an officer was Barbara started attending the monthly meetings, and there with a net ready to snare it and transport it back to it was the BCA that set her on the road to becoming one the wilds, or so I thought. Suddenly I heard a gunshot and of the best known and respected activists in the city. She saw the poor animal’s carcass being dragged back to the became vice-president of the Hillside Federation, and was truck. I was horrified. Later, I called animal control and a key figure in the creation of the Mulholland Scenic Park- they assured me that it was not their policy to kill wild- way, the Hillside Slope Density Ordinance and the preser- life and that the young man would be reprimanded. They vation of much of the critical open space in our hills. She apologized, but a lot of good that did the poor fox. was also involved in the setting up of the system of Neigh- I have many other memories, many good, some not borhood Councils and the City’s recycling program. After so good, but there is no question; living in this beautiful she passed away she was memorialized by the Barbara A. canyon over forty years has been great. n Fine Overlook on Mulholland, east of Coldwater.

SEPTIC OR SEWER . . . Cont. from pg. 7 serviced every two years by a qualified plumbing company knowledgeable in these systems and not just an unlicensed pumping company. If the system is not properly maintained, repair costs later can be substantial. All home purchasers should have the septic system inspected on any home purchase as part of the inspection process. If you think the city sewer just takes care of itself think again. All 4” lines from homes connect into the 6” city line. Many of these street sewer lines were installed over 40 years ago and may not be well maintained. Many of your neighbors have suffered backups from the city sewer line. A sewage backup into your home can be a messy and expensive repair. Neighbors need to call the city periodically to “snake” and clear the city line on their streets. Homeowners may still have problems with the 4” line from their home to the street. Since the 1994 earthquake we have had just enough shaking to slightly loosen the connection between the city line and the homeowners’ line, or suffered cracked lines we don’t even know about. Tree roots get into the line and cause a sewer back up. It is recommended to have your sewer line snaked once or twice a year to remove potentially clogging roots. The cost for this maintenance varies. Please contact City of Los Angeles information at 311 for further information. n

Fall 2010 8 Volume V Issue 14 BenedictBenedict CanyonCanyon BENEDICTBENEDICT CANYONCANYON ASSOCIATIONASSOCIATION 20082010 MEMBERSHIPMEMBERSHIP APPLICATIONAPPLICATION II wantwant to to help help protect protect and and preserve preserve our our canyon canyon and and the the environment environment in in which which we we live live and and express express my my support support byby joining joining the the Benedict Benedict Canyon Canyon Association Association at at the the following following membership membership level: level:

______$1000+$1000+ Oak Oak Tree Tree ______$500$500 Sycamore Sycamore Tree Tree ______$250$250 Eucalyptus Eucalyptus Tree Tree ______$100$100 Pine Pine Tree Tree ______$75$75 Basic Basic Membership Membership

NameName ______

AddressAddress ______

City,City, State,State, ZipZip ______

DaytimeDaytime PhonePhone ______EveningEvening Phone______Phone

E-MailE-Mail AddressAddress ______

BenedictBenedict CanyonCanyon AssociationAssociation mailingmailing listslists areare strictlystrictly confidentialconfidential andand areare nevernever soldsold oror shared.shared.

______I do I notdo notwish wish my myname name to appear to appear in the in theBCA BCA Newsletter, Newsletter, but butplease please accept accept my myenclosed enclosed contribution. contribution.

YouYou can can become become a a member member of of BCA BCA through through Basic Basic Membership Membership or or as as part part of of our our “Trees “Trees of of Support” Support” Donor Donor Program. Program. ManyMany members members are are choosing choosing to to designate designate their their membership membership “In “In Honor Honor of...” of...” or or “Memory “Memory of...” of...” for for someone someone who who used used to to livelive in in Benedict Benedict Canyon, Canyon, a a beloved beloved family family pet pet or or anyone anyone whom whom you you would would like like to to honor honor in in this this special special way. way. BasicBasic MembershipMembership names names will will not not be be published. published. Also, Also, you you may may contribute contribute at at the the donor donor level level and and elect elect not not to to have have your your name name published. published. BenedictBenedict Canyon Canyon is is protected protected only only through through your your individual individual contributions. contributions. Thank Thank you you for for supporting supporting your your community. community.

ForFor membership membership information, information, pleaseplease call our HotlineHotline - -(310) (310) 553-4BCA(4222) 553-4222(4BCA) BenedictBenedict Canyon Canyon Association Association is is a a non-profit non-profit organization. organization.

MyMy paymentpayment ofof $$______is madeis made by: by:

______Check Check payable payable to Benedict to Benedict Canyon Canyon Association Association

______Please charge Please mycharge my VISA ______VISA ______MasterCard MasterCard ______AMEX AMEX

CardCard# # ______Exp.Exp. date date______

NameName asas itit appearsappears onon cardcard ______

SignatureSignature ______PleasePlease return return this this application application along along with with your your payment payment to: to: BenedictBenedict Canyon Canyon Association, Association, P.O.P.O. BoxBox 1265,1265, BeverlyBeverly Hills, CA 9021390213 Cut Cut On Dotted Line 20082010 Z 25080 BCA Newsletter Summer 2008 7/11/08 12:41 PM Page 10

BCA NewsletterNewsletter (310)(310) 553-4BCA553-4BCA benedictcanyon.org benedictcanyon.org Benedict Canyon 20082010 BCA “Trees of Support”Support” DonorDonor ProgramProgram RosterRoster Sheldon & Andrea Shapiro David Hayes William & Nieva O=Toole OAKOAK TREE TREE Kim O’Brien Ferdinand & Lennie Fam Richard & Sandy Mosk Art & Renee Spence David & Bridget Hedison Charles B. Ortner BradleyThe David O’Leary Geffen Foundation Kevin & Elizabeth Parry Ruth Felmus Mary Ann Musico (1) Anonymous LeeLev Polster L. Spiro & Marguerite & Melissa Cascio-PolsterRosenberg DonRobert & Sandy & Mary Fenmore Ridings Herman MaudColleen Nadler O’Rourke Diane Sherman Smith PhilipLarry Proctor Steinman & Melinda & Lucy Peterson Suzar AlanEdward Fine & Sherry Heyman MelvilleLeon Owens& Alice Nahin (1) Anonymous SYCAMORE TREE JillDon Rau & Cynthia Wyse PhilipBruce Forte & Lynn Heymont C.R.Dick Neu Perlman & V. Ambrosini Steven Rosenwasser & Kelli Sager Samuel & Ardyth Freshman Anthony E. Nicholas Alex & Youki Bouzari (1) Anonymous David & Susan Horn Gary & Nita Polinsky SYCAMORE TREE Lou & Joanne Savage Evelyn Furtak-Dorfman Barbara Nichols Michael & Lori Eisenberg Terry Jackson John B. Power Rodney Kemerer & Lindsay Doran William Scheetz Carla Hacken & Lorraine Gallacher Art & Daniele Ochoa Alex & Yuki Bouzari PINE TREE Len & Nancy Jacoby Phil Proctor & Melinda Peterson Michael J. Libow Link K. Schwartz James & Donna Gallagher Colleen O’Rourke In Memory of Gero & Bella Armand & Marie Marciano RobertMichael Schwartz & Elaine & Karen Agran Breslow HarlandJoel Jaffe Green WilliamWalter & & Nieva Colleen O’Toole Ralphs SamLarry & & Ziva Nickie Jenkala Miner LinellJim ShapiroAnderson & Lynn Fireside GeorgeStuart & ShirleyNana Gregory Stamen Jaffe OthellaMax T.Ramberg Owens Sheldon & Andrea Shapiro Marvin & Inger Gross Eddie Pinchasi RodneyFred & JoanKemerer Nicholas & Lindsay Doran Suzy Aspinall Elizabeth James Stephen & Carol Randall Diane Sherman Smith Paul & Renee Haas Gary & Nita Polinsky (2)Anthony Anonymous Peju Bill & Phyllis Axelrod Ricky Jay & Chrisann Verges John Rieber & Alex Duda Jamie Tisch Renee & Art Spence Roger Halfhide & Patricia McVerry Max Ramberg Tom & Lisa Barry Preston Johnson & Vickie Martin Andrew & Kelly Robinson (1) Anonymous Melissa Rosenberg & Lev L. Spiro Stan & Mimi Handman Stephen & Carol Randall EUCALYPTUS TREE LarryGeorge Steinman & Carolyn & Lucy Bender Suzar WilliamDon Johnston & Christine & Simon Harper Sutton JohnPaul Rieber Rohrer & Alex Duda StevenEUCALYPTUS Bradley Beer TREE WalterEvan & Berk Bernadine Towns InArchie Memory Kapp of Chick Harris AndrewGil & RobinsonVal Romoff Bernard Kester Saul L. Rosenzweig BenedictSteven Banchik Hills Estates Association GlenGary Williams & Valerie & BirdElizabeth Hirsch James & Jean Harris Paul Rohrer JacquelineBarbara L. BissetBerkowitz (7)Paul Anonymous & Marie-France Bloch CynthiaMichael & J. Robert Kopcha Hart GilLarry & Val & Romoff Sunny Russ Robert & Mary Herman In Memory of Sheldon Rosenfeld MichaelJoni Berry Chasteen Ronald Boldt & Judith Shelton Rosa Koppens Joanne Sackheim PINE TREE Edward & Sherry Heyman Saul Rosenzweig HalJacqueline & Marta Bisset Cooper Ellen Brown Robert & Carole Kopple Christopher Saigal & Hollis Leech Robert & Maria Abeloff Bruce & Lynn Heymont Jim & Rachelle Rosten KenMichael & Randee Chasteen Devlin Ron & Jan Cannan David & Terese Kramer John & Gayle Samore Elaine & Dennis Abramson Arthur & Gwen Hiller Jack Roswal DavidRafe Cohen & Barbara Elson Jeffrey & Judy Caren Herbert & Arlene Kramer Beverly Sassoon Hal & Marta Cooper Deborah Adri Tom Holliday & Stacy Phillips Roman & Ida Russ Burton & Nanette Forester Larry Chrysler & Matthew Michael Don & Hope Kurz Alan I. Schimmel Ted & Karen Coyne Michael & Elaine Agran David & Susan Horn Joanne Sackheim Evans Frankenheimer Jeffrey & Rachel Cohen Morrie & Patti Lachman Ken & Randee Devlin Doris Alexander Louis Hurlburt MartinRobert & Marylin& Marilynn Salvin Schnair RobertVera Dunn & Cynthia Hart JimRafe Anderson & Susan & CohenLynn Fireside TerryBrian Jackson LeSage JohnArthur & Gayle & Arlene Samore Schwimmer UrbanDavid S.& Hirsch,Barbara III Elson SimaTed & & Bijan Karen Ansari Coyne LenHoward & Nancy & Carol Jacoby Levy BarryMartin & Nancy & Sheila Sanders Seaton RichardIn Memory Holesapple of Dr. Gene Feldman GordonMr. & & Mrs. Nancy Alessio Armstrong Coppola JoelJustine Jaffe I. Linforth RobertNorm & & Margaret Libby Shapiro Sanford Mr. & Mrs. William Axelrod Elizabeth James Kenneth A. Schwartz LeeBurton Ann & Jacobs Nanette Forester Mark & Maggie Damon Mark Liszt & Karyl Sisson Betty Shelhamer Thomas Barry Ricky Jay & Chrisann Verges Samuel Schwartz BarbaraEvans Frankenheimer Jaynes Billy & Marilyn Davis Elaine Lotwin Lilli Shoen George & Carolyn Bender Preston Johnson & Vicki Martin Arthur and Arlene Schwimmer IanSidney La Frenais & Linda Furie Eddie DeOchoa & Denise Anthony Joshua & Jenn Berman HaroldRon & Josephson Connie Mandell MartinBarbara & Sheila Shuler Seaton GeneDavid Lucero & Bridget & Marcia Hedison Williams GaryMorris & Valerie & Marlene Bird Dennis PeteBarbara Kameron Marcus EvvyJay Shapero J. Silverman & Janet Wood StephenUrban Hirsch Maitland-Lewis III & Joni Berry PaulJoe & DiStefano Marie-France & Beth Bloch Rubin GregDorothy & Susan Marlowe Kay NormMark & SklanskyLibby Shapiro & Lauren Ina RobertRichard & & Mindy Dea Holesapple Mann Chapin & Tabby Hunt RonaldLaurence Boldt & & Judith Judith Dornstein Shelton BernardSally Mason Kester BettyBrent Shelhamer Smith & Lisa Engel Armand Marciano Sanjay Khiani Barbara Shuler Stuart & Shirley Jaffe EllenJohn Brown & Julie Eidsvoog Thomas & Linda Markovitz Cortez Smith Margaret Maw Robert & Joann Burch Michael James Kopcha Jay J. Silverman & Janet Wood Barbara Jaynes Joseph Eisenberg Sally Mason Stanley W. Sokoloff Larry & Nickie Miner Jan & Ron Cannan Rosa Koppens Brent Smith & Lisa Engel In Memory of Gloria Kahn Michael & Lori Eisenberg Byron Mayo & Michelle Clarke Jeff & Judy Caren Herbert Kramer CortezIn Memory Smith of Joseph Stefano ClaudiaGertrude Mirkin Kline Ferdinand & Lennie Fam Eustace Moore Betty Chaplin JerzyAvery Kupiec McCallister StanleyJeff & & Annie Susan Stein Sokoloff Martin Krell Judy Feder DianeIan La Naegele Frenais Larry Chrysler DonMichael & Hope D. McLachlan Kurz AndrewPhil & Solt Milly & ClaudiaTorf Falkenburg Don & Sandy Fenmore Morrie & Patti Lachman Bernard & Wendy Sparer FredAndrea & JoanLeft Nicholas Eric Cleveland & Annette Stanton Greg & Nancy Meidel Robert J. Wagner CristinaAlan FineColissimo & Jordana Franzheim Norman & Helen Lapor In Memory of Joseph Stefano RickHenry Nicita Lindemann & Paula Wagner Geoff & Kathryn Miller Des Walsh G. CathieCollins Forstmann Brian LaSage & Afsaneh Malaekeh Jeff & Annie Stein HughGene &Lucero Virginia & Marcia O’Brian Williams Robert & Matlin Mirman Mr. & Mrs. Joe Walsh Mr.Philip & Mrs. Forte Alessio Coppola Howard & Carol Levy Steve & Rosalie Tenenbaum KevinGerald & & Elizabeth Sandra Margolis Parry Mark & Irene Montgomery Brandt & Tobi Wax Dorothy J. Marlowe MarkEvelyn & Maggie Furtak DamonDorfman Mark Liszt & Karyl Sisson Andrew R. Tennenbaum Anthony Peju ElaineIra & LotwinBethany Moretski GordonMurray & Phoebe& Barbara Trachtenberg Weiler Sally Mason CarmenJames D’Angelo, & Donna GallagherJr. In Memory of Denise Polk Marvin & Patti Demoff ThomasMark & & Sylvia Linda Morton Markovitz In MemoryBarry & Eleanorof Dudley Weinstock Trudgett Margaret Maw Marvin & Inger Gross Matthew & Brittney Post Morris & Marlene Dennis LowellDagmar & &Wende Alex MoscowiczMate MichaelJacques & &Michele Lynne VignieriWertheimer Farhad & Roya Melamed Jack Grossbart & Marc Schwartz StevenGeoff MillerRosenwasser & Kathryn & Kelli Scott Sager Eddie DeOchoa & Denise Anthony MaureenRichard McQuiston& Sandy Mosk RobertGlen J. Williams Wagner & Liz Levitt Hirsch Paul & Rene Haas JimMark & &Rachelle Irene Montgomery Rosten Raul Diaz & Viktoria Temesvary MarciJimmy Merliss & Anne Murphy BrandtJohn & & Tobi Joyce Wax Winters Carla Hacken & Lorraine Gallacher Ron Michaelson & Lucinda Cowell Barry Weinstock AlbertEustace Ruddy Moore & Wanda McDaniel Joe Distefano & Beth Rubin Mary Ann Musico Lawrence & Nancy Wolf DavidMr. & &Mrs. Jacqueline James Murphy Sacks NassirRoger Ebrahimi Halfhide & Patricia McVerry Claudia Mirkin Jacques & Lynne Wertheimer MarkMaud & Nadler Sylvia Morton LawrenceE. Victor & & Nancy Judith Wolf Wolfenstein LewDiane & NaegeleJoanne Savage JosephStan & MarilynMimi Handman Eisenberg Donatas & Viktorija Empakeris WilliamC. Richar Montgomeryd Neu ShirinPhil & Yaney Peyman & Jackie Yadegar Keller WilliamRick Nicita Scheetz & Paula Wagner Bill & Chris Harper AlexArt && DanieleDagmar Ochoa Moscowicz Greg (6) & Anony Virginiamous Young LindaJames Essakow & Jean Harris Bobby Schwartz & Karen Breslow (11) Anonymous ContributionsDonations received received after September after June 15, 20, 2010 2008 will will appear appear in in our our next next publication newsletter

FallSummer 2010 2008 1010 Volume VV IssueIssue 1412 BCA Newsletter (310) 553-4BCA benedictcanyon.org

Bird, Bath & Beyond

by Barbara Blinderman

potting a bird is fun and relaxing. You can do it anywhere. I’ve seen quet- Szals in Costa Rica, bearded bellbirds in Trinidad, oropendulas in Guatemala, green magpies in Borneo, pileated woodpeckers in Florida, green kingfishers in Texas and mountain bluebirds in their breeding finery in Wyoming. The good thing about all of these birds is that you don’t have to be a good birdwatcher to know what they are. They are so distinctive they’re almost self-identifying. You don’t even have to travel very far to see different kinds of birds. You can go to the Ballona Wetlands in Playa Vista to see a moorhen, a great blue heron or any of the other two hundred species of birds that live there. Or, travel the ten minutes it takes to get to WODOC in Franklin Canyon, where there are plenty of keep quiet, day or night? wood ducks, ringed necked and ruddy ducks and American Is it a covey of California quail that coots swimming and diving. sounds like an airplane taking off? Is it an Anna’s or an Al- Don’t feel like getting in your car? Then just look out len’s hummingbird sipping some nectar? Is that a spotted your window, look up, or walk the nearest hill and listen towhee or a colorful blackbird with the red eye, the orange to the sounds. I read somewhere that there are over 350 bottom and the white spots all over its wings? The point species of birds in the LA area. Once you start, you’ll be is, we live in a natural aviary. Enjoy it. amazed at how many of these flying objects are neighbor- Need To Know? hood residents. Birdwatchers Anonymous may insist that if you want Over the years, some birds that used to be common to spot birds, you must create a life bird list as a condition don’t seem to be around as much anymore. There may be of acceptance into their cult. To the contrary, you don’t plenty of robins, brewer’s blackbirds and mourning doves have to name names. There are people who think that at Roxbury Park, but I haven’t seen too many of them on you’re spoiling the fun of just looking if you have to fig- my street recently. I haven’t seen the great-horned owl that ure out what the experts call it. But if you’re one of those used to drink out of my neighbor’s pool since someone cut latent taxonomists who thrives on name dropping, you’ll down the big tree that he liked to use as a hooting platform. learn pretty quickly that the color of a bird isn’t enough I haven’t seen as many swooping scrub jays, or heard the to tell you what it is. You’ll start to notice the size, shape, persistent pecking of a northern flicker looking for a mate. flight patterns, sound and behavior patterns. You’ll figure It’s been a couple of years since I saw that wonderful crest- out which birds belong where. The first time I saw a kill- ed blackbird with the rounded wings and white patterns deer was in the parking lot of the LA Zoo and my first on its wingtips. He came every spring for years. I think I thought was he must have escaped from the aviary. liked him because of his name. It’s pretty cool to be able If you start to get serious and really want to know what to tell someone that the phainopepla just returned. you’re looking at, there are lots of sources out there to help Birds You’re Likely to See you identify and classify your backyard visitors. Here are Walk into your yard, look up and chances are good that a few suggestions: you’ll see the sun reflecting the tail of a red-tailed hawk. Hike the hills and you are likely to find a black phoebe, a 1. Books lesser goldfinch, or a yellow-rumped warbler perched on Birds of the Los Angeles Region by Kimball L. Gar- a bush or flitting around the trees. Look out your window rett, Jon L. Dunn and Bob Morse. It’s small enough to and you’ll wonder whether that American crow convention carry with you and is very easy to use. The photographs has voted to enter into an alliance with the coyote tribe to are really helpful. If you’re going to buy anything, this one take over the territory. Why do those mockingbirds never comes first. Cont. pg. 15

Volume V Issue 14 11 Fall 2010 BCA Newsletter (310) 553-4BCA benedictcanyon.org

This Is Your Captain Speaking

by Vera Dunn

rom the moment I walked into job. It was a goal and life fulfillment can still see that scene in vivid detail. Fire Station #99 it was easy that began when he was still in high Although most of us think of fire- Fto see why Captain Steven school and has continued throughout men as mainly fighting fires, 95% of Resnick was so proud of his place of his career. When asked what his fa- all of their calls are EMS, or Emer- business, which doubles as his home vorite part of the job was, he quickly gency Medical Service. On all of on the days of the month when he is responded, “helping these calls, the fully at work. The station is immaculate, people.” equipped paramed- beautifully furnished and the fire- He followed this ics’ truck, along with men I saw appeared to be happy to up with a touching trained paramedics, be there. My first impression was story of a young Val- are dispatched to the confirmed as Captain Resnick gave ley couple who were scene with the fire me a tour of the station saying that rushing to Cedars Si- truck. the “amenities are nice, but you have nai Hospital to have Captain Resn- to see what I am proudest of.” He a baby when they ick also shared his took me to the garage that housed the realized that it was thoughts on fire gleaming fire truck and paramedics’ too late and stopped danger in Benedict truck. at Station #99. Cap- Canyon. First, he The thing he was most enthu- tain Resnick and the said that we are very siastic to show me was a chain saw other firemen on duty lucky not to have and a unique piece of equipment promptly delivered a had a major fire in called the “Jaws of Life”. Both were healthy baby girl. Who knew that Benedict Canyon in many decades; tucked out of sight in the fire truck. part of a fireman’s job was deliver- however, he was quick to point out While explaining that this might not ing babies? Apparently it is, because how our beautiful hillside living also look like much to me, however, Fire all of the firemen have been trained creates perfect fire opportunities. He Station #99 was the only station in in birth techniques and most have said that he couldn’t stress enough the vicinity to have this indispens- participated in more than one home the importance of brush clearance able, life saving birth. This, however, and that “Fire Season”, which used equipment. He also was the first actual fire to run from October through Janu- said that it was the station delivery. This ary, is now year round. This means generosity of the or- experience deeply that brush clearance is now an on- ganization, “Adopt a touched many of the going job along with all other fire Fire Station,” spon- men, including Cap- preparedness, such as keeping all of sored by the BCA, tain Resnick. your important documents and pho- that made fire station Not all stories that tos together in case of evacuation. #99 not only unique- firemen see have hap- He also stressed the importance of ly decorated but well py endings. Captain leaving promptly if the fire depart- equipped. Resnick related an ment tells you to go, rather than wait- Following this incident where he ar- ing and trying to “save your house”. brief, but impressive rived on the scene of Not only does this allow firemen and informative tour, a freeway accident access to your property, but would Captain Resnick and to see a young girl also prevent a traffic jam with ev- I sat in the office and lying dead on the eryone evacuating at once. Another discussed the business at hand. Dur- highway in her prom dress with the main concern was properties with ing our discussion, it was more than drunk driver who caused the accident long driveways that were blocked by apparent that, to Captain Resnick, standing over her. Captain Resnick overgrown trees. He said often on a being one of the three fire chiefs at said it was difficult not to react to this call, a fire truck would have to park Station #99 was much more than a man, and when he closes his eyes he on a main street and hoses would

Fall 2010 12 Volume V Issue 14 BCA Newsletter (310) 553-4BCA benedictcanyon.org have to be dragged manually to the 500 to 800 residents of The Canyon the traffic cones and directions of fire scene, a potentially disastrous visit the fire station for food, a tour the firemen whenever you see them time delay. and fun. It is a day that is enjoyed in action in The Canyon. This will He is constantly monitoring the by firemen and resi- enable them to per- humidity, wind conditions and flame dents alike, but that form their services length which determines how fast an is the only day the without being put in active fire will spread. He said Santa station is open to the compromising posi- Ana winds could make these condi- public. tions by speeding, tions considerably worse should a To assist our fire- inattentive motorists. fire start. men in doing their Captain Resnick, It is as if those of us who live demanding jobs, along with the two in The Canyon perpetually have the Captain Resnick other captains, Jack conditions for the “perfect storm”, stressed that if you Reiss and Donna but in this case, it is the “perfect fire”. do have an emer- Lee, together with Obviously, it is important to all of us gency you should the firemen of Sta- to help our firemen do their job by call 911 rather than tion #99, willingly doing ours to help keep the canyon dial the fire station put their lives at as fire proof as possible. directly. This only risk at the sound of Part of helping the firemen is slows down the pro- a bell to protect us not visiting the fire station or inter- cess as the fire station then has to on a daily basis. If we do our part, rupting the firemen while they work. contact 911 before they can respond we allow them to perform their job Once a year the station is open to the to your call. Also, he urges every- with the grace, skill and courage it public. During this Fire Service Day, one to pay close attention and follow demands. n “Enchanted Hill” A Cowboy’s Benedict Canyon Homestead

by Michael Chasteen

n the early 1920’s, after a long search throughout Bev- Pickford in Los Angeles and began acting in bit part roles erly Hills and parts of Bel-Air, MGM screenwriter under the stage name “Francis Marion” (a name she chose IFrancis Marion and her silent film cowboy star - hus from a distant relative who was a legend of the Revolu- band, Fred Thomson, settled on a 13 acre piece of land high tionary War). She kept the name and would be known as on the western ridge of Benedict Canyon. Marion’s close Francis Marion for the remainder of her life. Acting was friend, Mary Pickford, lived down below with a number not to be her future. She became Mary Pickford’s personal of other Hollywood star neighbors of the silent film era. screenwriter and went on to become one of the most pro- Their life was to be no ordinary existence, but, one rival- lific and highest paid screenwriters in Hollywood history. ing their friends, Rudolph Valentino, Charlie Chaplin and Fred and Francis were introduced by Mary Pickford others. while Fred was working as a technical advisor on a Pick- Frederick Clifton Thomson was born in Pasadena, Cal- ford war movie entitled “Johanna Enlists” (1918). World ifornia in 1890. He set national records as a student athlete War I interrupted the romance when Fred was shipped at Princeton Theological Seminary where he attended from oversees where he served as an Army Chaplain in the 1910 to 1913 and played football at Occidental College. 143rd Field Artillery Regiment (known as the Mary Pick- He served as a Presbyterian pastor in Los Angeles, follow- ford Regiment). Since he was a correspondent for the gov- ing in the footsteps of his father. ernment in Europe, the two were able to stay in contact. Marion Benson Owens was born to a San Francisco They married in 1919 with Mary Pickford serving as maid advertising executive and socialite mother in 1888. A of honor. Fred made a decision to become a director of close family friend, the writer Jack London, encouraged western films in order to provide a model for clean living her to expand her bohemian pretensions and precocious- for boys around the world. He purchased the horse, Silver ness by writing. After two failed marriages she met Mary Cont. pg. 18

Volume V Issue 14 13 Fall 2010 BCA Newsletter (310) 553-4BCA benedictcanyon.org

Ravens May Be “Unkind” But Crows Are “Murder”

by Michael Chasteen

ave you ever wondered about those mysterious feeding and are, black birds that inhabit our canyon? It seems to for the most part, Hme that they appear as sentries in the trees above scavengers. They for days and then they are curiously gone. Few birds seem institute unique strate- as ominous or misunderstood as crows and ravens. Com- gies for acquiring food. mon Ravens (Corvus Corax) and American Crows (Cor- They eat a variety of vus Brachyrhychos) both belong to the Corvidae family or plant and animal foods, corvids, which include magpies, blue jays and nutcrackers. seeds, common garbage, Ravens are bigger, with a wing-span of 21 to 27 inches, a insects, mice, carrion heavier, wedge shaped bill and a rounded or web-shaped and dead animals. tail. Their wings are more pointed. The raven’s plumage Crows destroy the is a lustrous, funereal black, with lance-like throat feath- nestlings and ers. The beak, mouth, tongue, legs and feet are also black. eggs of other Crows are smaller, with a wingspan of 17 to 21 inches, a sharper bill and squared off tail. Crows gather in large groups to roost, while ravens are usually in smaller groups. Ravens emit a deep croaking sound and a metallic knocking sound called a “tok or “kloo-klok” in contrast with crow’s “caw-caw”. Unlike crows, ravens often soar birds, but in the in the air like hawks. Crows are said to be able to express process weed out themselves in at least 24 different calls. Ravens use 64 the week and fee- different sounds. Both are said to be masters of mimicry, ble. In addition they destroy many insects that are harmful mimicking barking dogs, flowing creeks, groaning tree to fruit trees. trunks and even human speech. Ravens are traditionally They alert the animals in the neighborhood when dan- associated with death, from their practice of gathering in ger approaches. Crows and ravens are among the most in- large numbers around a carcass. They are naturally a soli- telligent species of birds. The crow’s intelligence is the tary species. Both birds nest in cliffs or the fork of a tall reason attempts to ward them off by use of a “scarecrow” tree. The nest is a bulky structure which contains four to in the garden rarely works for very long. Some studies sug- five pale-green eggs, spotted with brown. Incubation lasts gest their intelligence to be on the level of the great apes. about twenty-one days. Ravens and crows are very territorial, which is indica- While ravens usually gather in smaller flocks, crows tive of their survival. They are complex, sophisticated and will gather in large flocks to roost. Such roosts may hold engaging creatures these ominous birds of yore. n hundreds or thousands of birds. A collective of ravens is called an “unkindness”, while the same gathering for crows “And the Raven, never flitting, still is sitting, still is is known as a “murder.” sitting” Crows and ravens are opportunists when it comes to -Edgar Allen Poe www.benedictcanyon.org

Fall 2010 14 Volume V Issue 14 BCA Newsletter (310) 553-4BCA benedictcanyon.org

BIRD BATH & . . . Cont. from pg. 11 In My Canyon View by Rodney Kemerer Just when you were thinking that there’s no need for more bird books, “Falling Into Autumn” they came up with two new compre- hensive books that are game chang- y brain is hardwired to the smells from my childhood. At this time of ers. The National Audubon Society the year it is the smell of burning leaves. As early as I can remember, is the publisher of The Sibley Guide Mgrowing up in the Midwest and later in Pennsylvania, the smell of to Birds by David Allen Sibley. burning leaves told my brain that winter was coming. As the first pile of leaves Houghton Mifflin publishes Kenn was raked together and then slowly smoldered into flame, the smell permeated Kaufman’s Birds of North America. the neighborhood. It was the signal to break out the corduroy pants and sweater vests. Fall was always my favorite season, the closing in, the shutting down, They are requirements for any one the preparing for winter, never cold enough to be uncomfortable but it was the who wants to start a bird book library. warning sign that freezing weather lay ahead. 2. Web sites I have had to re-program my brain for living in California and specifically in a mountain canyon. Now the smell of burning anything results in a sudden panic, Of course there are thousands of a threat and danger. “Fall” has been replaced by “Fire Season.” What was once them, so you’ll have to do some surf- a smell that made me excited for Halloween and winter holidays now causes me ing to find what you like best. Three to run outside and sniff the air like an overachieving bloodhound. I’ve found useful are: audubon.org - It is remarkable to me that a smell as simple as burning leaves can transform I especially like its Seattle Audubon from a feeling of joy to one of terror. East coast vs. West coast. There is nothing chapter site birdweb.org/birdweb be- else that I can think of that I miss to the same degree. Other smells of Fall still cause it’s easy to click on the sound remain unaffected by geography. I love the smell of the furnace the first time link. Birdsource.org/gbbc/ tells you it is turned on when the weather is cold enough. The smell of the summer dust where and how many birds have burning off the furnace is reassuring. It only happens once a year, like the first been seen anywhere in the country frost. You can only smell it the first time you turn on the furnace, then you have and has a kids’ link. The site called to wait another year. It is like the furnace waking up from a long sleep to then whatbird.com lets you click different begin its winter job. I also love that cold crisp thick air you first notice early in icons for size, shape, location, sound the morning when you go outside. The difference is that in the East, it lasted all and more. day. Football weather some call it. In California, it is only in the morning, the sun burns it off well before noon. 3. IPhone apps There is no breaking out of the snow tires with their deep rubbery aroma or An April 22, 2010 article by rustling through the hall closet looking for scarves, gloves and the Bob Tedeschi, “A Touch-Screen clothes of winter. It has been replaced for me by putting away Field Guide to the Birds for Instant the Hawaiian Shirts of summer and breaking out the plaid flannel ID” lists a number of new apps for shirts. Not the heavy east coast plaid wool of Pendleton but the IPhones and other mobile devices, so cottony lightweight stuff that J. Crew calls “Fall” but does not you can take your bird identifier with really feel “Fall.” you wherever you can get service. I’ve been known to put up Halloween decorations Serious birders, he says, should take a on the first day of September just so I can get two look at iBird Explorer Plus, Audubon full months of Autumn visuals. I swear that some Birds or National Geographic Hand- of my childhood decorations (yes, I still have Held Birds. them) still smell of burning leaves, apple cider and It doesn’t take much time to look carved pumpkins. A heady mixture that instantly out your window or walk out on sends me back in time. your patio. You may decide to join Today, when I get nostalgic for the the 46 million other Americans who Full Fall Experience, I’ll put a handful call themselves casual birdwatchers. of dried leaves in the fireplace before building a Then again, you may get serious. Ei- log fire. I’ll light the leaves, close my eyes, take a deep ther way, you’ll like what you see. n inhale and for a brief minute, fall back to the Autumn of my childhood. n

Volume V Issue 14 15 Fall 2010 BCA Newsletter (310) 553-4BCA benedictcanyon.org

Don Fenmore 1939-2010

on graduated from the Wharton School of Business of the University of Pennsylvania in 1961 with honors and was elected to Beta Gamma Sigma, the honorary business Dscholastic society. He won the Mirkil Award for the outstanding senior thesis in the field of real estate and later also became a CPA. After graduating USC Law School in 1965, he joined the Tax Division of the US Department of Justice in the Los Angeles office of the US Attorney. While a Justice Department attorney, he tried and won a celebrated tax case involving the deductibility of the famous 256 foot racing schooner the “Good Will”, which was the largest racing schooner on the West Coast. While a partner at the law firm of Loeb and Loeb in Los Angeles in the 1980’s, Don was lead counsel to the construction lender (Wells Fargo) of the Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills, as well as for the construction of the 1250 room Hilton Waikoloa Village Hotel (then known as the Hyatt Regency Waikoloa Hotel) at Kona, Hawaii. Active with the Beverly Hills Bar Association, in 2001 Don authored a proposed state bill, patterned after a federal stat- ute, permitting interim appeals of certain contested legal issues in order to expedite the litigation process. It was introduced to the California Assembly as AB2865 and was signed into law by then Governor Gray Davis on September 19, 2002 and is now California Code of Civil Procedure Section 166.1. In 2004, Don chaired the first ever golf tournament for the Beverly Hills Bar Association. In 2008, the Association awarded Don with its Distinguished Service Award for outstanding leadership as Founder of its Annual Golf Tournament 2004-2006. Don also served on the Board of Directors of the Benedict Canyon Association and authored various articles in its News- letter. He was well respected on the Board and his service to the community was appreciated. Don and his wife, Sandy, shared a warm and loving marriage of 41 years. Don was a fun-loving, kind and compassionate person. He was greatly admired and loved and will never be forgotten. Don is also survived by his loving daughter, Tanya, and brother, Barton Fenmore. Most of all, Don will be remembered for the love, laughter and precious moments he shared with his wonderful friends throughout his 71 years. The BCA Board of Directors mourns his passing. n

Paramedics – An Expensive Ride

by Mary Ann Musico

hen a resident calls 911 for a paramedic, both the bill goes to the patient directly. If the patient doesn’t the fire engine and the paramedic units will re- pay, the bill goes to collection and ultimately, if not paid, Wspond. An assessment will be made as to the the patient’s credit is affected. Low income patients must specific condition or complaint of the patient and either submit documentation to get a reduced rate. The charge for aid will be given on site, or the patient will be transported Advanced Life Support (ALS-two paramedics supplying to the closest facility, depending upon availability of care intensive care) is $1,004.00 plus $15.75 per mile. A Basic and space. Life Support (BLS, an EMT with limited care) is $712.00 The paramedic visit for assessment, without transport, plus mileage. The 911 operator will determine which ser- is currently part of a city service and no fee is charged to vice is dispatched at the time of the initial call, depending the person receiving care. With the present budget crisis on the nature of the emergency. in Los Angeles, this non-fee situation may soon change. Residents are cautioned to use a paramedic only for an However, there is a charge if the paramedics must trans- emergency medical issue. Unfortunately, some residents port the patient to a facility. This cost is charged to the call for minor situations, reducing the availability of units patient’s insurance company. If there is no insurance, then for more urgent calls. n

Fall 2010 16 Volume V Issue 14 BCA Newsletter (310) 553-4BCA benedictcanyon.org

Fire Station 99 Turns “Green”

by Mr. Greenjeans

f you have driven the firemen, take a walk by Fire Station 99 around. Irecently, you may The artificial grass is have noticed a new look. really a wonder that most The look is a water sen- people can’t believe. sitive, drought tolerant, Take your shoes off and fabulous garden. Its di- walk on it. This turned versity ranges from arti- out to be the best thing ficial grass and butterfly for the men and women bushes to lantanas, roses at the station…no more and red hot pokers. The mowing! Now they can crape myrtles are now in have picnics under the bloom with their great pepper tree and enjoy the reds and pinks. These wildlife that has come to trees bloom both in the Spring and late Summer and love take up residence in their new landscaped home. the heat. There are also California sycamores and Canary Did you know that lawns require more water and main- Island pines. The large tree that hangs over the picnic table tenance than anything else in your garden? We should all is a California pepper, most likely more than 75 years old. spend more time in our gardens, hopefully with a little less Next time you drive by, stop and, without disturbing work and more enjoyment. n

2010 BCA Membership Premium Gift For the 2010 Benedict Canyon Association Membership Drive, The BCA Member- ship Committee is offering a free BCA logo imprinted collapsible umbrella. This large green umbrella will be sent to you upon receipt of your paid BCA 2010 Membership at the Eucalyptus Level ($250.00) and above. The umbrella features an all-metal shaft with one touch button opening feature and an oversized wooden handle with a wrist strap. A large 60” arch covers you and a loved one in any Canyon downpour and folds neatly away into its own nylon carrying case with shoulder strap. You will be “Singin’ In The Rain” while helping to protect Benedict Canyon. Supply is limited, so sign up today and become a BCA Member and never worry about the weather again.

BCA Hotline: 310.553.4222 (4BCA) Website: www.BenedictCanyon.org

Volume V Issue 14 17 Fall 2010 BCA Newsletter (310) 553-4BCA benedictcanyon.org

ENCHANTED HILL . . . Cont. from pg. 13

King, who measured 17 hands high, from a riding stable in New York City. While studying the film business in Holly- wood and training Silver King, Fred replaced a bit player in a film and was an immediate success as an actor. It was 1923 and Benedict Can- yon was for the most part virgin to land development. One could say it was the Wild West, complete with coyotes, deer, mountain lion, bobcats and the frequently encountered western diamondback rattlesnake. One day while riding up primitive roads on horseback, Fred and Francis discovered the property which was to become 1441 Angelo Drive. Here, they envisioned their new homestead, which would be centered on an equestrian lifestyle, fit for Silver King, the dapple gray horse featured in Fred’s films. They added 11 acres to their plan and com- missioned upstart architect Wallace Neff to design an estate consisting of a gatehouse, guesthouse, living One day, while working in the stables, Fred apparently quarters for the ranch hands and a 10,000 square foot main stepped on a rusty nail. This led to a misdiagnosed case of house for them and their two children. A key component to tetanus and his premature death at the age of 38 on Christ- the master plan was a riding arena and stables with floors mas day in 1928. made of mahogany to accommodate over 20 horses. En- Frances went on to become the first woman to win tertaining was paramount to Fred and Francis and they en- an Academy Award for a non-actress category. She won joyed riding the many trails above and around Benedict two Oscars for writing “The Big House” in 1930 and “The Canyon with their fellow Hollywood cowboys and visitors Champ” in 1931. Her marriage in 1930 to George W. Hill, from around the world. The estate was known as “En- the director of “The Big House,” ended in divorce. He chanted Hill”. soon committed suicide. Her career slowed after the death The project was completed in 1925 and proved to be of her mentor, Irving Thalberg. She continued to write for one of Neff’s most significant architectural contributions. MGM until 1946. Francis Marion died in Los Angeles in Wallace Neff, an MIT graduate and grandson of Andrew May of 1973. McNally of the Rand McNally Co., was known for his Paul Kollsman, a German immigrant, inventor of avia- signature Spanish Revival Homes. This style symbolized tion instruments and founder of Snow Valley Ski area in true Southern California gracious living. Neff grew up in Vermont, purchased Enchanted Hill in 1945. He and his Altadena on the 24 acre olive and citrus ranch owned by wife, Baroness Julie Dorothea Baronin von Bodenhausen, his grandfather, which shaped his vision and architectural added land adjacent to the estate which grew the property palette at an early age. from 24 to a total of 120 acres. At the time of the building of Enchanted Hill, Fred What at one time was called a “poetic hilltop paradise, Thomson rivaled Tom Mix and was the No. 2 box office a timeless homage to the natural beauty that was once Los star in 1926 and 1927. Many of Fred’s western films were Angeles”, the landmark estate was demolished in 2000 by written by Frances who also who wrote under the name of Paul Allen, co-founder of Microsoft, just three years after “Frank M. Clifton”. he purchased it. n

Fall 2010 18 Volume V Issue 14 BCA Newsletter (310) 553-4BCA benedictcanyon.org

Who Is For The Animals?

by Nickie Miner

ne evening, Paul Darrigo responsibility for these creatures that Crest Neighborhood Council and our pulled over to the side of cannot help themselves. own Benedict Canyon Association Othe 101 Freeway to ask if he Who is for the animals? Paul Board Meeting. might help two Highway Patrol Of- Darrigo is for the animals. A young Our Councilperson, Paul Koretz, ficers who had stopped to assist a dog man with a kind heart and a great hopes for “Zero Kill” in Los Angeles with a broken leg lying on the road. deal of energy and determination, he animal shelters. So many of us sin- The officers told Paul they were was a Reserve Police Officer in his cerely want to help but don’t know waiting for Animal Control to come, hometown of Totowa, New Jersey. how. This is our chance to step for- but that it would be a long wait. Paul Paul always enjoyed public service. ward and contribute where it counts. wrapped the dog in his coat and took He moved to Los Angeles in the mid For information on how to be trained the suffering animal to a veterinarian 1990’s to be an actor but his school- to be a Reserve Animal Control Of- himself. This story, fortunately, had ing in electronics led to his expertise ficer volunteer, to foster an animal or a good outcome, as the owner was as a MAC Technician. donate funds necessary to building found and the dog eventually recov- In the City of Los Angeles, Ani- the RACO program, you may contact ered. mal Control serves a vital purpose, yet Paul Darrigo directly at fedguy2@ In another incident, Paul encoun- the Department’s budget has been cut pacbell.net. You can make a differ- tered a scared, confused dog dart- along with other City Services. 25080 There BCA Newsletter Summerence. 2008 7/11/08 You 12:41 canPM Page save10 a life. n ing about on the highway. The dog are only two Animal Control Officers BCA Newsletter (310) 553-4BCA benedictcanyon.org turned out to be a pet let loose by the on duty at any given time during the owner to wander the streets. When night to cover the entire Los Angeles Paul rescued the animal, he found a area from San Pedro to Sylmar. Of- Benedict Canyon note rolled up in her collar, which ficers are needed for rescue, to handle read: “Hi My name is Daisy. I am 5 complaints, issue summons for abuse2008 BCA “Trees Associationof Support” Donor Program Roster OAK TREE Kim O’Brien Ferdinand & Lennie Fam Richard & Sandy Mosk The David Geffen Foundation Kevin & Elizabeth Parry Ruth Felmus Mary Ann Musico years old. I’m spayed. I like children. or violations of code and the list goes(1) Anonymous Lee Polster & Marguerite Cascio-Polster Don & Sandy Fenmore Maud Nadler PhilipBenedict Proctor & Melinda Peterson CanyonAlan Fine Association Melville & Alice Nahin SYCAMORE TREE Jill Rau Philip Forte C.R. Neu & V. Ambrosini Please take care of me”. Daisy is now on. We in the hillsides particularlyAlex & Youki Bouzari Steven RosenwasserBoard & Kelli Sager of SamuelDirectors & Ardyth Freshman Anthony E. Nicholas Michael & Lori Eisenberg Lou & Joanne Savage Evelyn Furtak-Dorfman Barbara Nichols Rodney Kemerer & Lindsay Doran William Scheetz Carla Hacken & Lorraine Gallacher Art & Daniele Ochoa in foster care waiting to be placed require Animal Control for situationsMichael J. Libow Link K. Schwartz James & Donna Gallagher Colleen O’Rourke Armand & Marie Marciano Robert SchwartzE &x Karenecutiv Breslow e HarlandCommitt Green ee William & Nieva O’Toole Larry & Nickie Miner Linell Shapiro George & Nana Gregory Othella T. Owens in a proper loving home. These involving our wildlife. Fred & Joan Nicholas SheldonMichael & Andrea Shapiro Chasteen Marvin & IngerPresident Gross Eddie Pinchasi Anthony Peju Diane Sherman Smith Paul & Renee Haas Gary & Nita Polinsky Jamie Tisch ReneeDavid & Art Spence Berger Roger HalfhideVice-President & Patricia McVerry Max Ramberg (1) Anonymous Melissa Rosenberg & Lev L. Spiro Stan & Mimi Handman Stephen & Carol Randall heartbreaking situations underscore Paul is for all animals, from dogs Larry Steinman & Lucy Suzar William & Christine Harper John Rieber & Alex Duda EUCALYPTUS TREE WalterRodney & Bernadine KemererTowns In Memory ofVice-President Chick Harris Andrew Robinson the need for us and cats to wild life and even snakes.Steven Banchik Glen Williams & Elizabeth Hirsch James & Jean Harris Paul Rohrer Barbara L. Berkowitz (7)Nickie Anonymous Miner Cynthia & RobertVice-President Hart Gil & Val Romoff Joni Berry Robert & Mary Herman In Memory of Sheldon Rosenfeld Jacqueline Bisset VeraPINE Du TREEnn Edward & SherrySecretary Heyman Saul Rosenzweig to take Realizing the desperate need for moreMichael Chasteen Robert & Maria Abeloff Bruce & Lynn Heymont Jim & Rachelle Rosten Rafe Cohen ElaineAlan & Dennis Fine Abramson Arthur & GwenTreasurer Hiller Jack Roswal Hal & Marta Cooper Deborah Adri Tom Holliday & Stacy Phillips Roman & Ida Russ people to help, Paul set out to Ted do & Karen Coyne Michael & Elaine Agran David & Susan Horn Joanne Sackheim Ken & Randee Devlin Doris Alexander Louis Hurlburt Martin & Marylin Salvin Vera Dunn Jim Anderson & Lynn Fireside Terry Jackson John & Gayle Samore something about it. He made a comDavid &- Barbara Elson Sima & BijanA AnsaridministrativLen e& NancyAssist Jacoby ant Barry & Nancy Sanders In Memory of Dr. Gene Feldman Gordon & Nancy Armstrong Joel Jaffe Robert & Margaret Sanford Burton & Nanette Forester Mr. & Mrs. William AxelrodClaire CarafelElizabeth Jameslo Kenneth A. Schwartz mitment to add ten new volunteersEvans to Frankenheimer Thomas Barry Ricky Jay & Chrisann Verges Samuel Schwartz Sidney & Linda Furie George & Carolyn Bender Preston Johnson & Vicki Martin Arthur and Arlene Schwimmer David & Bridget Hedison Joshua & Jenn Berman Harold Josephson Martin & Sheila Seaton the Reserve Animal Control OfficersUrban Hirsch III Gary & Valerie Bird Pete Kameron Evvy Shapero Richard & Dea Holesapple Paul & Marie-France Bloch AdvisoGreg &rs Susan Kay Norm & Libby Shapiro Chapin & Tabby Hunt Ronald Boldt & Judith Shelton Bernard Kester Betty Shelhamer (RACO) program. At that time, Stuartthe & Shirley Jaffe Ellen BrownMichael VignierSanjayi Khiani– Land Use Barbara Shuler Barbara Jaynes Robert & Joann Burch Michael James Kopcha Jay J. Silverman & Janet Wood In Memory of Gloria Kahn Jan & Ron Cannan Rosa Koppens Brent Smith & Lisa Engel RACO Program, which originallyGertrude Kline Jeff & Judy Caren Herbert Kramer Cortez Smith Martin Krell Betty Chaplin Jerzy Kupiec Stanley & Susan Sokoloff Ian La Frenais Larry Chrysler Members-Dona t& -LHope aKurzrge Andrew Solt & Claudia Falkenburg Andrea Left Eric Cleveland & Annette Stanton Morrie & Patti Lachman Bernard & Wendy Sparer began in Los Angeles in 1982, was Norman & Helen Lapor In Memory of Joseph Stefano Henry Lindemann CristinaDa Colissimovid Berger & Jordana Franzheim Mary Ann Musico Gene Lucero & Marcia Williams G. Collins Brian LaSage & Afsaneh Malaekeh Jeff & Annie Stein Gerald & Sandra Margolis Mr.Marcy & Mrs. Alessio Braiker Coppola Howard & CarolBarbara Levy NicholsSteve & Rosalie Tenenbaum nearly extinct. Brenda Barnette, Dorothythe J. Marlowe Mark & Maggie Damon Mark Liszt & Karyl Sisson Andrew R. Tennenbaum Sally Mason CarmenDavid D’Angelo, Elson Jr. Elaine Lotwin Brittney PostGordon & Phoebe Trachtenberg Margaret Maw Marvin & Patti Demoff Thomas & Linda Markovitz In Memory of Dudley Trudgett new General Manager of Animal SerFarhad -& Roya Melamed Morris & Marlene Dennis Lowell & Wende Mate Michael & Michele Vignieri Geoff Miller & Kathryn Scott Eddie DeOchoaDon &Loze Denise Anthony Maureen McQuistonPaul Rhorer Robert J. Wagner Mark & Irene Montgomery Raul Diaz & Viktoria Temesvary Marci Merliss Brandt & Tobi Wax vices, likes the idea so much that sheEustace Moore MarkJoe Distefano Montgomery & Beth Rubin Ron MichaelsonJoanne & Lucinda SavageCowell Barry Weinstock Mr. & Mrs. James Murphy Nassir Ebrahimi Claudia Mirkin Jacques & Lynne Wertheimer Diane Naegele Joseph & Marilyn Eisenberg Mark & Sylvia Morton Lawrence & Nancy Wolf plans to continue the program on Rickan Nicita & Paula Wagner Donatas & Viktorija Empakeris William Montgomery Shirin & Peyman Yadegar Linda Essakow Alex & Dagmar Moscowicz Greg & Virginia Young Newsletter Committee (11) Anonymous ongoing basis. Paul is using his skills Rodney KemererDonations – receivedEditor after June 20, 2008 will appear in our next newsletter to revitalize RACO. He talks to Summerall 2008 Vera10 Dunn Volume V Issue 12 Joanne Savage the neighborhood councils sharing in- Aron Kincaid – Artwork formation about the program and how Copyright © 2010 by our participation will serve the com- The Benedict Canyon Association munity. Paul spoke at The Beverly All Rights Reserved

Volume V Issue 14 19 Fall 2010 KEEP THIS MAN OUT OF YOUR BACKYARD!

Clear brush and weeds 200 feet from ALL structures. “BE FIRE-SAFE”

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Clear brush and weeds 200 feet from ALL structures. Deliver to Addressee “BE FIRE-SAFE” or to Current Resident

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PRSRT FIRST CLASS U.S. POSTAGE PAID Benedict Canyon BEVERLY HILLS, CA PERMIT NO. 1719 Benedict Canyon Association This Man Knows Where P.O. Box 1265 Beverly Hills, CA 90213-1265 You Live . . .

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