The Third District serves the communities of DENNIS P. ZINE Canoga Park, Reseda, Tarzana, West Hills, Winnetka, & Woodland Hills Councilman, Third District SPRING 2011

th MISSION STATEMENT 9 Annual Z Awards For ExZellence Recognizing outstanding public safety personnel As your public servant, By Jessica Tarman, Communications Director Topanga Area Gang Enforcement Detail my staff and I pledge (GED). His understanding of gang issues to… and gang enforcement T he 9th Annual “Z • Improve the quality of Awards for ExZellence” techniques has led to a life in our district luncheon was held on direct impact on crime • Ensure public safety Thursday, April 21st at reduction in the valley. Topanga GED is • Follow-up with your the Warner Center Mar- among the leaders in concerns in a timely riott in Woodland Hills Operations-Valley Bu- manner to honor public safety reau (OVB) in total ar- • Keep you informed of personnel who go rests and productivity issues in the district above and beyond what is expected of them in consistently for the past • Attend your meetings order to serve the citizens of the Third two years, finishing and events Council District and the greater Los Ange- number one in the OVB in 2009 with a • Put the community’s les community. CBS2 News Anchor Pat 275% increase from 2008. In 2009, gang priorities first Harvey presented the awards and the crime dropped 20% and in 20I0, gang Honorable Richard Katz served as the crime dropped an additional 11%. In Master of Ceremonies. 2010, Topanga GED made 395 arrests, of those arrested, 261 were for felony In its ninth year, the “Z Awards for ExZel- crimes. The officers conducted 193 proba- Inside this issue: lence” recognizes individuals who have tion searches and 103 parole searches, demonstrated ongoing dedication, com- which resulted in the arrest of 44 parolee/ Special Projects 2-3 mitment, and “exzellence” in their respec- probationers and the confiscation of ten tive fields and for their outstanding contri- guns. In addition, Topanga GED made butions in the areas of law enforcement, Community News 4-5 102 gang injunction arrests, which again emergency services, and public safety. At led the bureau and was second overall this year’s award ceremony, the commu- citywide in gang injunction arrest totals. Planning 6 nity honored personnel from the LAPD, Sergeant Alferez's leadership and gang LAFD, County Sheriff’s De- expertise is the driving force behind the partment, California Highway Patrol, and success of Topanga GED. Legislation 7 the California Department of Motor Vehi- cles. Police Officer II+2 Tim Gal- lick, LAPD Valley Traffic Senior News 8 2011 Recipients: Division: Officer Gallick has Sergeant I Frank Alferez, been a member of the Los LAPD Topanga Area: Ser- Community Meetings 9 Angeles Police Department geant Alferez is a 14-year since 1995 and is currently a veteran of the Los Angeles member of the Valley Traffic Around Z Town 10-11 Police Department. He Division Community Traffic Services Unit. joined the LAPD's Topanga As a Traffic Safety Officer, he works dili- Division in December of The Z Team 12 gently to address the needs of the com- 2008 and quickly estab- munity by working closely with LAUSD lished himself as an extraordinary, hard- officials in implementing student drop-off/ working supervisor. He was instrumental in putting together the newly established Z AWARDS CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 PAGE 2

Z AWARDS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 interviewed on national television, including the Today show, CNN, and Fox News Network to answer ques- pick-up stations to ensure student safety. Officer Gallick tions regarding distracted drivers and also providing nar- has also been involved with the Valley Traffic Advisory ration for active pursuits on these programs. Along with Council’s “Still Saving Lives Car Show,” which educates her other tasks, she was chosen to head the Keeping constituents on child safety seat inspections. He also Everyone Safe (KEYS) grant. This program permitted represented the department during a recent taping of an Officer Hoglund to coordinate 12 allied agencies in Los Univision Television weekly program to illustrate the Angeles County thereby creating an educational task dangers of texting and driving. Officer Gallick was hon- force for elderly drivers on driving safely as they age. In ored with the Police Star Award for his bravery above early 2010, she transferred back to the West Valley to and beyond the normal demands of duty when he become a field training officer. She wanted the opportu- evacuated residents from their homes during the 2008 nity to influence new officers, guiding and teaching them Sesnon Fire. And he received the Top Gun award from to be productive and valued members of the depart- the Los Angeles Chief of Police Charlie Beck for his ex- ment. She is also the newest member of the Southern ceptional motorcycle riding skills. Division Color Guard, where she represented the de- Sergeant I Michael Henderson, LAPD partment at the Women Leaders in Law Enforcement West Valley Area: Sergeant Henderson Conference in Pasadena. has been with the Los Angeles Police De- Captain John D. Holtby, Los Angeles partment since 1988 and has been a su- City Fire Department: Captain Holtby was pervisor in the West Valley area since hired onto the Department in August of January 2009. He is frequently called 1980 and transferred to Fire Station 93 in upon to serve as the incident commander Tarzana in November of 2002 where he at dangerous crime scenes. On May 1, 2009, two armed is stationed with the “B” Platoon. Captain suspects entered and robbed the First Bank on Ventura Holtby’s faith has been a cornerstone in Blvd. As the suspects departed, they placed a suspi- both his professional and personal life. cious device inside the front door of the bank. Sergeant He is involved with the Firefighters for Christ Ministry, an Henderson immediately responded to the scene and organization that helps firefighters in need. He continues took over as the incident commander. He ensured that to volunteer at Hume Lake Christian Camp for children all necessary notifications were made, set up a com- and their families. He has traveled abroad to help the mand post, and initiated the Incident Command System. needy in Mexico and Uganda. While in Uganda he As a result of his excellent leadership and planning, the worked alongside Africa Renewal Ministry (ARM) and Robbery Homicide Division, the FBI, and the Bomb Children's Hunger Fund to help Bethany Village (an or- Squad were able to conduct their investigations in a phanage) become self-sustaining. The mission team timely and effective manner. Sergeant Henderson was provided medical care, educational instruction, and con- honored as both West Valley Area Supervisor of the 2nd struction assistance. Currently, Captain Holtby and his Quarter in 2010 and the 2010 Supervisor of the Year. wife help with the disabled ministry at their church. He He is an inspiration to both the sworn and civilian staff, plans to retire in three more years, giving him a total of alike, and is a great friend and protector of the citizens 34 years of dedicated service to the Fire Department. of the West Valley. Deputy Gabriel Perez, Los Angeles Officer Heather Hoglund, California County Sheriff’s Department: Deputy Highway Patrol: Officer Hoglund gradu- Perez has been with the Los Angeles ated seventh out of her class of 137 ca- County Sheriff’s Department for five years dets from the CHP Academy in June of and has been assigned to the Transit Ser- 2003 and transferred to the West Valley vices Bureau for three of those years at office in October of 2005. During her ten- the Chatsworth Sub Station. In 1998, he ure at West Valley, she was the recipient enlisted in the Unites States Marine Corps. He spent a of the 2007 MADD Award for outstanding total of eight years in the Marine Corps seeing combat in DUI enforcement activity. She was selected to be a Enduring Freedom in Kuwait and in Enduring Iraq. Dur- member of the Southern Division Public Information and ing this time, he was awarded three Naval Achievement Recruiting Office where she became one of the instruc- Medals. Last year, while working on the PM shift, Dep- tors for the child passenger safety seat installation, a very important national safety program. She has been Z AWARDS CONTINUED ON PAGE 3 PAGE 3

Below is a summary of items collected at the event: Los Angeles River Beautification Total participants = 636 cars Used Oil collected = 1,100 gallons I t was a windy Satur- UO filters collected = 2 drums day morning, but this E-waste collected = 30,000 lbs. did not stop the volun- The next e-waste event is scheduled for the fall. For teers from participating more information, email [email protected] or in the Los Angeles call 1-800-98-TOXIC. River Beautification Day of Service Project Z AWARDS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 in Reseda. The pro- ject, spearheaded by the Office of Councilman Dennis uty Perez made more than 297 arrests and wrote more P. Zine, the Office of Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, the than 559 citations. 137 of those were vehicle code viola- Reseda Neighborhood Council, and the Trust for Public tions, 321 were fare enforcement violations, and 101 Land sought to improve a two-mile stretch of the Los were parking citations. During the past year, Deputy Angeles River along Crebs Avenue in Reseda. The work Perez’s primary job was to patrol the bus routes that consisted of removing weeds, trimming trees, and clean- traverse the . In 2010, while work- ing debris along the river. ing the mid shift, he made 593 arrests. From the arrests made, 272 were warrant arrests and 321 were open As part of the initiative, the Councilman had the palm charge arrests for various criminal offenses ranging from trees trimmed and the palm fronds were then distributed narcotic violations, weapons violations, drunk driving, to local churches in the district for Palm Sunday. This and other misdemeanor violations. He also issued more was a great opportunity for churches that typically pay than 558 traffic-related citations including 87 parking for palm fronds to receive them for free. tickets to violators parking in bus zones. The entire service project has been divided into three Deputy Chief Vito Scattaglia, Depart- phases: including tree ment of Motor Vehicles, Division of Inves- removal & trimming, tigations: Deputy Chief Scattaglia was weed abatement, and born in San Fernando, California and tree planting. It was a attended Alemany High School and Cali- successful event and the fornia State University, Los Angeles following groups helped earning a Bachelor of Science degree in make this an incredible Administration of Justice. He is a gradu- day of service: Iglesia ate of the L.A. County Sheriff’s Academy and holds Restauracion, Iglesia Poder de Dios, Valley Vineyard State Commission on Peace Officers Standards and Church, St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church, the Training for basic, intermediate, advanced, supervisory, West Valley YMCA, the Reseda Neighborhood Council, and management requirements. Deputy Chief Scattaglia the Boys Scouts, and local residents. If you are inter- began his law enforcement career with the DMV Division ested in cleaning an area in your community, please of Investigations in March 1973 as an investigator as- email Jose Martinez at [email protected]. signed to Los Angeles. He was promoted through the various field and supervisory ranks from March 1973 to E-Waste Event October 1986 in the L.A. area. He then promoted to val- ley area commander in October 1986 with oversight of all San Fernando Valley enforcement activity. He began O n Saturday, April 16th, Councilman Zine held a serving as deputy chief in March of 2009 and is respon- Used Motor Oil and Electronic Waste Recycling event at sible for DMV field enforcement activities for Los Ange- the council district office in Reseda. This was a great les, Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo coun- opportunity for the City to provide Third Council District ties. He oversees three commanders, nine supervising residents with a temporary and convenient location investigators, 65 sworn investigators and 12 support where they could bring motor oil, oil filters, and elec- staff. For the past 38 years, Deputy Chief Scattaglia has tronic waste for recycling. The Used Motor Oil and Elec- also served as a reserve police officer for the City of San tronic Waste Recycling Programs have received an ex- Fernando and has been the commander of the reserve cellent response from residents and the community. unit for 33 years with the rank of captain.

PAGE 4

Discretionary Funds Put to Good Use C ouncilman Dennis Zine, Public Works officials, bike enthusiasts, and active community members marked the arlier this year, Councilman Zine transferred a sig- E start of construction of the LA River Greenway Project at nificant amount of his discretionary funds to the Bureau a groundbreaking ceremony held in March. The project, of Street Services, Department of Public Works, with the a two-mile bikeway and parkway along the River’s south intent of providing additional needed core services bank between Vanalden Avenue and Mason Avenue, throughout the Third Council District that are currently will run through the communities of Winnetka and Re- underfunded or lacking. As part of that commitment, the seda. It includes habitat-friendly landscaping, stormwa- Councilman also agreed to a $5000 matching pro- ter quality improvements, solar LED lighting, resting ar- gram with each of our six neighborhood councils. Three eas with benches, drinking fountains and fitness equip- of our neighborhood councils took us up on this offer, ment. The Greenway Project is a part of the Los Ange- below are the additional core services that will be les River Revitalization Master Plan designed to en- funded thanks to our matching program. hance recreational opportunities and overall quality of ♦ The Reseda Neighborhood Council will be trim- life along the LA River in CD3. Adding to the overall im- ming large overgrown trees in the Reseda Downtown provements in the area, the project also includes the Business District. resurfacing of Tampa Avenue and Winnetka Avenue ♦ The Tarzana Neighborhood Council will be repair- between Victory Boulevard and Vanowen Street. ing potholes, trimming trees, and removing tree stumps. Construction will be done in three phases, with phase 1 ♦ The Winnetka Neighborhood Council will be do- and 2 set to be completed summer 2012. The third ing small asphalt repairs and trimming trees. phase is being scheduled, but is not yet finalized. Please make sure to thank Councilman Zine and your neighborhood council for funding the additional work that KNOCK! KNOCK! WHO’S THERE? will directly impact your quality of life! Door-to-Door Solicitors Ordinance By Brian Perry, Chief Legislative Deputy I n addition to the matching funds program, the Council- man has already funded the following core services throughout CD3: T he City of Los Angeles has adopted a new Ordi- nance that will allow the Police Department and the City ♦ Tree trimming in Reseda as part of a beautification Attorney to stop, detain, or prosecute individuals who project along the LA River. may be posing as door-to-door solicitors in order to stalk ♦ Tree stump removal along Ventura Blvd. in both a home or create a cover to commit a crime. Individuals Tarzana and Woodland Hills as part of the overall com- who approach your door with the stated intent of a com- munities’ effort to “green” the Blvd. by planting trees. mercial purpose must now provide a valid government- ♦ Slurry sealing throughout the district. issued photo identification when requested. They must ♦ Small curb repairs along Ventura Blvd. in Woodland also be able to produce a current Business Tax Regis- Hills. tration Certificate. The hours of solicitation are also re- ♦ Operation Pothole throughout the district - a total of stricted to only 8am – 8pm. 329 pothole repairs were completed. These identification requirements may also deter ven- LA River Greenway Project dors from defrauding the public by attempting to sell in- ferior or illegal products. Always ask for these docu- "I'm excited to see that the ments in addition to any receipt you may obtain. These revitalization of the Los Ange- rules were in place for charitable solicitors, but only ap- les River will include a 2-mile plied to commercial vendors for the sake of collecting bikeway within the Third Coun- taxes and fees by the Office of Finance. This new Ordi- cil District that will feature fit- nance will allow law enforcement to apprehend and ness stations and community art and will restore natural habi- prosecute wrongdoers. tats. Aside from promoting a Be sure to report any suspicious solicitors to the police. healthy lifestyle, this project will offer local residents the oppor- Write down any identifications they may provide; and if tunity to enjoy recreational activities in an open space along the the vendor refuses to provide identification, take note of river." -Councilman Dennis P. Zine their physical description and any form of transportation. PAGE 5

of summer 2011 so the hundreds TARZANA of residents that drive and walk Mecca Park: A Neighborhood Crossroads up and down Reseda Blvd. every- day will finally be able to enjoy the outcome of a true community ouncilman Zine C project that both respects the is excited to an- concern for water conservation nounce a partnership and embraces the beautifully di- to beautify an over- verse native plants that California looked lot now called has to offer. Thank you to the Mecca Park in Tar- Department of Recreation and zana. Councilman Parks, the Tarzana Neighborhood Zine, the Department Council, and the residents that live in that neighborhood of Recreation and for their support. Parks, the Tarzana Neighborhood Council, and some community members came together to brainstorm ideas for the improvement Park Improvements of this Mecca Ave. property and to identify funding By Adrian Garcia, Policy Director/Deputy Chief of Staff sources to beautify this unique neighborhood open space. E xciting new park improvements are coming to a few A few years ago, a Tarzana resident donated the 8,273 parks in our District! Working in collaboration with the square foot (0.18 acre) piece of unused private property Department of Recreation and Parks, you will begin to to the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and see new improvements at Lanark Park, while future en- Parks, which is located at the intersection of Reseda hancements are planned for Shadow Ranch and Wood- Blvd. and Mecca Ave., just south of Ventura Blvd. Over land Hills parks. These projects will upgrade our parks the years, the unused property has been an eyesore full and benefit kids and adults alike. of overgrown vegetation that has actually served to pro- Here is a breakdown of the improvements: vide the West Valley Police Activity League Supporters Lanark Park: Improvements are currently underway; (PALS) youth the opportunity to put in some volunteer including the installation of a new playground and out- hours by clearing of overgrowth vegetation and remov- door basketball courts. In addition, the volleyball court ing litter. will be refurbished. Enhancements to the recreation cen- The vision for the property is to beautify Mecca Park so ter are in progress consisting of new indoor lighting, new it aesthetically improves the neighborhood without en- paint, and a new gym floor. All of these improvements couraging the use of the property for loitering or heavy are scheduled to be completed in June, just in time for recreational purposes. A neighborhood resident offered summer. Also, Recreation and Parks is planning the to put her landscaping design skills to use by drafting a installation of a new synthetic turf soccer field which is design for review. The design brought enthusiastic sup- scheduled to be completed by Fall 2012. port and was ultimately approved due to its low con- Woodland Hills Recreation Center: New improve- struction and maintenance costs, and the use of water ments are planned for the park including an updated tolerant plants and trees. The proposed design has five playground and a refurbished outdoor basketball court. small areas of trees and plants, a dry river bed, short paths of decomposed granite paving, and a set-back Shadow Ranch Park: Plans are in the works to install a around the perimeter of the property to allow pedestri- synthetic turf soccer field scheduled to be completed by ans to safely step onto it if they need to. The trees and Winter 2012. shrubs that will be planted include the following: Palo The park improvements are being funded using Council Verde tree, Beaked Yucca, Purple Hopseed Bush, as- District 3 Quimby funds. Quimby fees are paid by devel- sorted Aloes, Cleveland Sage, Red Yucca, California opers of single and multi-family dwelling units to assist Lilac, Toyon, Berkley Sedge, Desert Willow, Western municipalities in their provision of park developments Redbud, Matilija Poppy, White Sage, and Manzanita. All and improvements. The current City ordinance regarding of these landscape elements together will create a beau- the use of Quimby funds requires the funds collected be tiful water-tolerant California native paradise. used at City Recreation and Park facilities within 2 miles We are aiming to have this project completed by the end of the collection site. PAGE 6

Sherman Village Breaks Ground

A CRA funded family- affordable housing devel- The Hummus Bar and Grill opment broke ground March 15th on the corner of Wilbur Ave. and T he best of Tel Aviv in Sherman Way. Developed by Meta Housing, Sherman Tarzana, the Hummus Bar Village will transform a long-time vacant lot recently be- and Grill specializes in a ing utilized as a used car lot into a 73-unit multi-family fresh and always fabulous development. Meta has completed numerous successful variety of salads and skew- ered meats. The Hummus affordable projects in the Valley and has a good track Bar, located on the north side of Ventura Blvd just east of record with the City of Los Angeles. In addition to the Burbank opened in January of 2008 and quickly expanded stylish architecture (pictured), the development will fea- to its current size in February of 2010. ture a large backyard with BBQ area and children's play equipment. Included for ambiance will be a water feature When I go for lunch, it is always busy with customers en- at the corner of Wilbur and Sherman Way. Services will joying themselves. The first thing you notice when you walk be provided to the residents that include financial em- in is round balls of dough waiting to be rolled and quickly powerment classes and after school classes. If you are baked into fresh laffa bread. Once you find your seat, the interested in becoming a resident, please call (714) 363- fresh laffa is served with salsa, olives, and pickles. Be careful, it’s right out of the oven and hot. 4090 x7432 and ask for the Sherman Village project. The Sherman Village management has more informa- The hummus, as you might guess, is fantastic. Made with- tion regarding eligibility and is in the process of compil- out preservatives, the blended mix of garbanzo beans, ing an interested parties list. sesame paste, garlic and lemon is done to perfection and is extra delicious topped with sauteed mushrooms. Order- ing a hummus appetizer is a must because you need Stenroos Restitution something to dip the laffa bread into. The solid selection of By Brian Perry, Chief Legislative Deputy skewered meats come out flavorful and juicy. As a test, I tried the chicken breast skewer as chicken breast tends to dry out. Not at the Hummus Bar. If you feel more adventur- O n January 19, 2011, a report was received that Security ous, foie gras, lamb, and chicken hearts are also served on Officer Jeffrey Stenroos from the Los Angeles School Police a skewer. On the other end of the food spectrum, the Hum- was shot while on duty near El Camino Real High School in mus Bar, believe it or not, is also vegetarian friendly. They Woodland Hills. The reported shooting prompted officials to have a wide variety of vegetarian dishes under the "salads" seal off a large part of the West San Fernando Valley and portion of the menu. Two that stand out are the beet salad place approximately 9,000 students on lockdown. Hundreds of spiced with cumin and the corn salad with red bell peppers officers from the LAPD, school police, the LA County Sheriff’s and dill. There are about 15 different salads to choose Department, FBI, ATF and the California Highway Patrol re- from. sponded to the area. Eight days later, LAPD investigators an- nounced that the reported shooting of Officer Stenroos was a The Hummus Bar's distinctively Israeli Mediterranean cui- hoax. Stenroos has subsequently been charged with insurance sine not only serves Middle Eastern dishes, but also pep- fraud, workers’ compensation fraud, preparing a false police pers in some Jewish eastern European classics. The report, preparing false documentary evidence, planting false chopped liver can compete with Bubbie's recipe, the lentil evidence and falsely reporting an emergency. Stenroos faces soup is authentic, and the schnitzel is definitely legit. up to five years and eight months in prison if convicted. Really, what more can you ask for? Hummus appetizers A day after the revelation of the hoax, the City Council ap- start at $7, vegetarian salads are about $4, and kebab proved a Motion introduced by Councilman Zine to seek resti- meals range from $12 to $24. tution from Stenroos for compensation of the costs incurred by the City in response to his false report. Working with the City The Hummus Bar and Grill Administrative Officer (CAO), the Los Angeles Police Depart- 18743 Ventua Blvd. ment, the Los Angeles Fire Department, and the Department Tarzana, CA 91356 of Transportation, a summary invoice was forwarded by Coun- (818) 344-6606 cilman Zine to the District Attorney to request a cost recovery Open Daily 11am-11:30pm payment of $361,289.51 upon the conviction of Stenroos.

PAGE 7

Uncovering Fraud, Waste, & Abuse After a lengthy discussion, the DWP proactively issued a A s the new Audits and Government new bill format which they claim will help address the Efficiency Chair, Councilman Dennis P. issue of double billing. Councilman Zine will hold the Zine made a commitment to stop fraud, audit for now to allow this transition to occur. He did di- waste, and abuse. Over the past two rect the DWP to report on the findings of their internal months, the committee has made great audit on their billing and collection processes; prepare progress in helping aid City depart- an outreach plan on how they will address this issue ments better collect taxes owed to the with their customers, including an appeal process when citizens of LA, as well as advocate for customers disagree with the changes, and provide a efficient billing from the Department of contact that customers can communicate with; and to Water & Power. determine how this issue could As Chair, Councilman Zine brought to light $23M which be better ad- is owed by parking lot operators who collect these mon- dressed through ies but do not remit back to the City coffers. This abuse the new Office of of the law affects all Angelenos when faced with a Public Account- budget that is cutting services. In committee, Council- ability. Council- man Zine passed a number of initiatives that helped to member Zine will tighten our ordinance which will prevent additional abuse have a full hear- to continue. ing once again in As his first action as the Chair, he made the following the upcoming recommendations: 1) Request the City Attorney to draft months to hear all City Attorney Trutanich and Controller Greuel join Councilman Zine at a press conference language that authorizes the Police Commission to deny of these report calling for parking lot tax cheats to pay up a new Police Permit application or renewal application backs as well as for non-payment of business taxes and/or parking occu- a full status update on how the new bill format has pancy taxes; 2) Request the City Attorney to work with helped decrease the issue of delayed billing. the Office of Finance to report back on the legal possi- Upcoming is the discussion of the red light program. The bilities of requiring all parking lot operators to obtain a City Controller has released an audit stating there are bond for each location to satisfy any delinquent tax; 3) many engineering flaws to the program as it stands. Request the City Attorney to report back on the possibil- Councilman Zine will make sure all corrections are made ity of obtaining a lien on the property for non-payment; before the continuance of any red light program in the and 4) Instruct the City Attorney to draft language to City of Los Angeles. amend the Los Angeles Municipal Code to require that in order to reinstate a suspended Police Permit, the op- Lastly, Councilman Zine would like to remind everyone erator must: a) pay all outstanding delinquent business that if they are a witness to any fraud, waste, or abuse to taxes and parking occupancy taxes; and b) to install, at call the Fraud Hotline at 1-866-428-1514. the permit holder’s expense, automated and approved Revenue Control Equipment at each parking lot location. These recommendations will make it harder for these violations to recur and for operators to commit fraud. Later in the month, it was brought to Councilman Zine’s attention that the DWP was back billing customers for many months of utilities, adding up to several thousands of dollars. This is not only an unfair hardship put on any customer who receives this type of bill, but also high- lights collection problems the department faces. He had originally requested the Controller to conduct an audit of DWP’s billing and collection practices, including a dis- cussion of the problems caused by late billing, to be done at the Department’s expense. PAGE 8

ONEgeneration CEO Retires ing, Financial and Legal Survival, Deals for Seniors, Dis- aster Preparedness addressed by Firefighter McNight, and Self Protection addressed by LAPD Officer Rosa O NEgeneration in Reseda bid a Parra. There was also a panel discussion on Planning very sad farewell to Larry Gordon who for Incapacity followed by a delicious barbecue chicken has been their CEO for the past three lunch and an ‘exercise break’. years. Larry is an exceptional, extraor- Councilman Zine welcomed the seniors and caretakers dinary person and friend to all that had by giving them an update on current discussions in City the honor of meeting and working with Hall. Councilman Zine also responded to several ques- him. He is a kind, smart, and very hard tions from the participants. working individual and has been quite an asset to ONEgeneration. The ONEgeneration auditorium was filled with numerous vendors offering their Laurence Gordon, CRC, CCM, CDMS (Certified Reha- support and services bilitation Counselor, Certified Case Manager, Certified such as various home Disability Management Specialist) has more than 38 care agencies, financial years of experience in human services, care manage- services, hospice care, ment, and rehabilitation. He has managed public agen- Kaiser Senior Advan- cies, not-for-profit organizations, and private companies. tage, Providence Mr. Gordon’s consulting firm, Laurence Gordon Associ- Health and Services, ates, provided management consulting services to the dentists, medical supply companies, residential choices, private and public sectors from 1989 to 2007. health and rehabilitation services, elder law services, the From 2002 to 2005, Mr. Gordon also served as the Ex- YMCA, Home Secure, Lifeline, COSTCO, the Depart- ecutive Director of Grandparents as Parents (GAP). He ment of Mental Health, Jewish Family Services & Home currently serves as a member of the GAP Board of Di- Security, and the AQMD were all represented. rectors. He is past President of the International Asso- A special thank you to Larry Lisenbee, Director of the ciation of Rehabilitation Professionals and 2003 recipi- ONEgeneration Senior Enrichment Center, and their ent of the IARP Lifetime Achievement Award. He was staff for their continued support and cooperation by pro- the first Chair of the Case Management Coalition Asso- viding their auditorium for this annual event. Thank you ciation, a Commissioner on the Commission on Reha- all for making this event a success! bilitation Counselor Certification, and served as an Ex- ecutive Committee member on the Foundation for Reha- bilitation Education and Research. Mr. Gordon received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Salem State College in Massachusetts, then pursued advanced graduate studies at Boston University. Mr. Gordon and his wife Madelyn have been married for 35 years, have two grown children and three grandchildren. Senior Symposium

O n Saturday, May 14th, a wonderful and educational time was had by all with our “3rd Annual Senior Sympo- sium – Living Well”, held at the ONEgeneration Senior Enrichment Center in Reseda. Councilman Zine, ONEgeneration and the Reseda, Canoga Park, Win- netka, Tarzana and Lake Balboa Neighborhood Coun- cils graciously sponsored this fabulous event! Approxi- mately 300 seniors and caretakers began their day with a continental breakfast followed by various speakers discussing topics such as Physical and Mental Well Be- PAGE 9

Neighborhood Council: 4th Neighborhood Council: 1st Wednesday of the month, Wednesday of the month, 7pm, Canoga Park Commu- 7:00pm, Chaminade High nity Center: 7248 Owensmouth Ave., Canoga Park. School: 23260 Saticoy St., West Hills. (818) 719-8656. (818) 756-9628. www.canogaparknc.org. www.westhillsnc.org. Neighborhood Watch: 2nd Tuesday of the month, 7pm, Neighborhood Watch: 2nd Monday of the month, 7pm, Topanga Police Station: 21501 Schoenborn St., Canoga Topanga Police Station: 21501 Schoenborn St., Canoga Park, Senior Lead Officer Padron, (818) 731-2583. Park, Senior Lead Officers Cunningham (North West South Canoga Park meets the 4th Wednesday of the Hills), (818) 756-3073, and Sam Sabra (South West month, 7pm, Topanga Police Station: 21501 Schoen- Hills), (818) 756-3074. born St., Canoga Park, Senior Lead Officer Zumstein, Chamber of Commerce: 3rd Thursday of the month, (818) 756-3188. 7:30am, Hometown Buffet: 6705 N. Fallbrook Avenue, Chamber of Commerce: 3rd Thursday of the month, West Hills. (818) 648-6219. www.cpwhchamber.org. 7:30am, Hometown Buffet: 6705 N. Fallbrook Ave., West Hills. (818) 884-9906. www.cpwhchamber.org. Neighborhood Council: 2nd Tuesday of the month, Neighborhood Council: 1st 6:30pm, Valley Village: 20830 Monday of the month, 7pm, Sherman Way, Winnetka, (818) 648-6219. RNC Office: 18341 Sherman Way, #102, Reseda. & 3rd www.winnetkanc.com. Monday of the month, 7pm, American Legion Hall: 7338 Winnetka Neighborhood Watch: 2nd Thursday of the Canby Ave., Reseda. (818) 832-7540. month, 7pm, Topanga Police Station: 21501 Schoen- www.resedacouncil.org. born St., Canoga Park, Senior Lead Officer Neighborhood Watch: 2nd Thursday of the month, Maldonado, (818) 756-3079. 7pm, West Valley Police Station: 19020 Vanowen Neighborhood Spanish Watch Meeting: 2nd Wednes- Street, Reseda, Senior Lead Officer Barber, (818) day of the month, 7pm, Topanga Police Station: 21501 731-2580 (North of Sherman Way). Senior Lead Offi- Schoenborn St., Canoga Park, Senior Lead Officer cer Parra, (818) 731-2574 (South of Sherman Way). Maldonado, (818) 756-3079 nd Community Police Advisory Board (CPAB): 2 Chamber of Commerce: 1st Monday of the month, Wednesday of the month, 7:00pm, West Valley Police 6:30pm, Canoga Park Bowl: 20122 Vanowen St., Win- Station Community Room: 19020 Vanowen St., Reseda. netka. www.winnetkachamberofcommerce.org. (818) 374-7689. Neighborhood Council: 2nd Neighborhood Council: 4th Wednesday of the month, Tuesday of the month, 7pm, 6:30pm, Woodland Hills Acad- Tarzana Elementary School: emy Auditorium: 20800 Burbank Blvd., Woodland Hills. 5726 Topeka Drive, Tarzana. (818) 345-1966. (818) 484-3270. www.whcouncil.org. www.tarzananc.org. rd Neighborhood Watch: 3 Wednesday of every month Neighborhood Watch: 3rd Tuesday of every other at 6:30pm, Topanga Police Station: 21501 Schoenborn month, 7pm, LAPD West Valley Station: 19020 St., Canoga Park, Senior Lead Officers Dinse, (818) Vanowen St., Reseda, Senior Lead Officer Daryl 756-4800. Scoggins, (818) 374-7630. Chamber of Commerce: Last Thursday of the month, Chamber of Commerce: Last Thursday of the month, 7:30am, Chamber Office: 20121 Ventura Blvd., Suite 12pm, Providence Tarzana Medical Center: 18321 Clark 309, Woodland Hills. (818) 347-4737. St., Tarzana. (818) 347-4737. www.woodlandhillscc.net. www.woodlandhillscc.net. Property Owners Association: 2nd Monday of the Woodland Hills Homeowners Organization: 4th month, 7:30pm, Tarzana Community & Cultural Center: Wednesday of the month, 7:30pm, Kaiser Permanente 19130 Ventura Blvd., Tarzana. (818) 344-2137. Hospital: Auditorium A, Entrance 5, 5601 De Soto Ave., www.tarzanapropertyowners.org Woodland Hills. 818-346-5842. www.whho.com.

PAGE 10

Councilman Zine with the Bureau of Street Councilman Zine with over 150 volunteers at Thousands turn out to support WALK Now Services staff including Chi Ming Gong, a Ventura Blvd. tree planting event in Wood- for Autism Speaks at the Rose Bowl in Pasa- James Duncan, and the slurry seal crew land Hills in March dena

Councilman Zine was the man of the hour at Councilman Zine helps kick-off the 3rd Annual Enadia Way Elementary School Garden the 14th Annual LA Political Roast benefiting Woodland Hills Relay for Life at Pierce Col- ribbon-cutting ceremony with Principal Cor- the American Diabetes Association lege doba, LAUSD staff, and parent volunteers

The West Valley Alliance, Office of Commu- Councilman Zine praises the heroic actions of Councilman Zine and the LAPD hold a press nity Beautification, and ClearChannel are Reseda High School personnel at a City conference to announce a reward in the hit recognized for their work to combat graffiti Council Meeting in & run collision that killed Jafar Amirshahidi

Councilman Zine kicking off the West Valley The Opening Day Ceremony for Sunrise Little Councilman Zine and General Manager Mike YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day with Executive League with Scott Nadler, Michael Spound, and Nix celebrate Braemar Country Club’s Grand Director, Greg Koubek Eagle Scout award recipient Chris Englemann Opening of the Fitness Center PAGE 11

Reading Green Eggs and Ham to Lokrantz Councilman Zine, the Mayor, the Chamber, Councilman Zine, Rec. & Parks GM Jon Elementary School students for Dr. Seuss' the Historical Society, and the Neighborhood Mukri, and students from Reseda HS cele- birthday and Read Across America Day Council kick-off the Canoga Park Centennial brate Reseda Park Lake’s re-opening

The 25th Anniversary celebration of the War- Councilman Zine and other elected officials Councilman Zine participates in the Walk to ner Center Marriott with Joy Picus, GM Clay celebrate the grand opening of the new tower End Genocide at Warner Ranch Park with Andrews, Gordon Luster, and Terry Adler at Providence Holy Cross Jewish World Watch

Terry Handa of the Japanese Chamber of Taft Community Fair with LAUSD Boardmem- Michael Sirota, John Parker, Councilman Commerce and Chris Ipsen of the Emergency ber Zimmer, District 1 Director Bartleson, Prin- Zine, Mary Paterson, and others celebrate Management Dept. on the Parallax Forum cipal Thomas, and parent Jennifer deSpain at Canoga Park’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade

PHOTO: MICHAEL EIVAZ

Councilman Zine, LAPD Valley Traffic Divi- Councilman Zine, the Community Redevelop- Octaviano Rios at the WVOC’s 10th Annual sion, CHP, and local traffic reporters recog- ment Agency, and Meta Housing celebrate International Day Festival with Principal nize Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month the Groundbreaking of Sherman Village Montes and Assistant Principal Luis Lopez Councilman Dennis P. Zine Assistant President Pro Tempore [email protected]

Jimmy Blackman Adrian Garcia Brian Perry Chief of Staff Deputy Chief of Staff Chief Legislative Deputy [email protected] Policy Director [email protected] [email protected]

Jonathan Brand Jessica Tarman Jennifer Rivera Chief Planning Deputy Communications Director Senior Legislative Deputy [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Carleen Gonzalez Maria Aguiniga Sheree Adams Executive Assistant Office Manager Front Office Receptionist [email protected] [email protected] Senior Citizen/ADA Specialist [email protected]

LeeAnn Braun Rose Medrano William Ayala Council Aide, Planning Council Aide Council Aide, Front Office [email protected] [email protected] Graphic Artist [email protected] District Office

Irma Pomposo Cara Goldman Jessica Forkish Deputy Chief of Staff Case Manager Case Manager District Director [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Octaviano Rios, Jr. Jose Martinez Field Deputy Special Projects Tarzana, Winnetka, Clergy Liaison & Woodland Hills [email protected] [email protected]

COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS: CITY HALL OFFICE Chair: Audits & Governmental Efficiency 200 N. Spring Street, Rm 450 Vice-Chair: Personnel Los Angeles, CA 90012 Vice-Chair: Education & Neighborhoods Tel: (213) 473-7003 Member: Public Safety Member: Information Technology & Government Affairs Fax: (213) 485-8988 Hours: 8:30am - 5:30pm ORGANIZATIONS: Past Pres.: Jewish Home for the Aging (JHA): The Executives DISTRICT OFFICE Past Pres.: Independent Cities Association (‘06-’07); Treasurer (‘07-’08) 19040 Vanowen Street Officer: LAPD Reserve Officer: Fugitive Warrant Detail Reseda, CA 91335 Secretary: West Valley Family YMCA: Board of Directors Exec. Cmte: U.S. Army Los Angeles Community Advisory Board Tel: (818) 756-8848 Member: National League of Cities: Advisory Council Fax: (818) 756-9179 Member: San Fernando Council of Governments Hours: 8:30am - 5:30pm Member: Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG): Energy & Environment Committee; Regional Council; Regional Check out our website: Integrated Policy Task Force www.cd3.lacity.org Hon. Member: Woodland Hills Rotary Hon. Member: Valley Village Foundation Hon. Member: West Valley LAPD PALS