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On this episode, Chavonne Taylor speaks with Rudy and Ana Garcia, owners of Team Garcia Boxing Gym in South Central Los Angeles. TG Boxing Gym has experienced trainers and coaches who can help you reach your goal to compete as an amateur or pro boxer. Team Garcia also gives back to their local community by being a safe space for the local youth through their non-profit which provides sparring and boxing classes for children as young as 7 years old. Rudy is a South Central native who has been boxing since 10 years old, competitively boxing since 14, and has been a coach for about 20 years. In addition to supporting Rudy in gym management, Ana, also a South Central Native, runs their non-boxing Women’s fitness classes.
Resources:
www.tgboxing.com
www.instagram.com/latgboxing
Phone: (323) 561-4677
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You’re listening to MHD OTR’s Keys to the City, where we help unlock access to the city’s best-kept secrets—free and low-cost resources that can make a real difference in your life. Each episode, we give you the keys to opportunities and programs that you might not know about, but should absolutely take advantage of.
On this episode, we speak with Christopher Taylor who currently serves as an Adult Librarian at the Mark Twain Branch of the Los Angeles Public Library, where he provides a range of services to support the community. He brings over a decade of experience in library and information services, having worked in legal, public, and special libraries. With a Master of Library and Information Science degree from Queens College, Christopher is passionate about connecting people with the resources they need to learn, grow, and thrive. He’ll share insights into the programs and services offered at the Mark Twain Branch Library, which he believes serves as a hub for education, creativity, and community engagement.
Can libraries like the Mark Twain Branch be the key to stronger, more connected neighborhoods by providing essential resources and fostering community—or are they struggling to stay relevant in the digital age? We discuss all that and more.
Resources
Mark Twain Branch Library
9621 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90003
www.lapl.org/branches/mark-twain
www.lapl.org
www.lapl.org/ask-a-librarian
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For this episode of MHD Off The Record’s City in All Directions, we take you through Los Angeles City Council District 1 and spotlight places in the City of Los Angeles where you can eat, learn, and play! From hidden gems to community favorites, we’re here to connect you with local spots, resources, and opportunities that enrich life across the city. So, if you're looking to eat a great meal, develop a new skill, or just have a good time, here, we explore how each LA City Council District shines in every direction.
Council District 1 is represented by Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez. This district stretches across many neighborhoods including but not limited to Highland Park, Westlake, Chinatown, and Pico-Union. Known for its rich culture and history, District 1 is a hub for art, food, and community.
Resources:
District Website: cd1.lacity.gov
Eat: Mama's International Tameles (also known as Mama's Tameles & Pupusas)
Website: ordermamasinternationaltamales.com
Instagram: @mamastamales
Learn: Audubon Center at Debs Park
Website: debspark.audubon.org
Play: LA State Historic Park
Website: lastatehistoricpark.org
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You’re listening to MHD OTR’s Keys to the City, where we help unlock access to the city’s best-kept secrets—free and low-cost resources that can make a real difference in your life. Each episode, we give you the keys to opportunities and programs that you might not know about, but should absolutely take advantage of.
Jackie Tatum Harvard Park serves as a crucial hub for South Los Angeles, offering a wide range of free and low-cost programs aimed at youth development, community health, and recreation. The park addresses issues of physical activity, community engagement, and access to safe public spaces. From youth sports leagues and fitness programs to mentorship opportunities, Harvard Park provides the kind of resources that are essential for personal growth and well-being in the community.
For this conversation, we are joined by Gordon Dupree, the Senior Recreation Director at Jackie Tatum Harvard Park. With nearly two decades of experience in the LA Parks system, Gordon has been leading the efforts at Harvard Park since 2022, ensuring that it remains a cornerstone for recreation and community resources in South LA. With a bachelor's degree in Recreation and Leisure Studies from Cal State University Northridge and a master's degree in Human Development from Pacific Oaks College, Gordon brings not only expertise but a deep commitment to fostering a safe, healthy, and connected community.
Resources
Jackie Tatum Harvard Park and Recreation Center
1535 W. 62nd St. Los Angeles CA 90047
www.laparks.org/reccenter/jackie-tatum-harvard
www.laparks.org/discover-activities?filters=location.popular.-1
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MHD Off The Record’s 'City in All Directions' highlights the best places to eat, learn, and play throughout Los Angeles. From hidden gems to community favorites, this segment connects listeners with local spots, resources, and opportunities that enrich life across the city.
For this episode of City in All Directions, we take a trip through Council District 3, represented by Council President Pro Tempore Bob Blumenfield. This district includes neighborhoods such as Woodland Hills, Reseda, and Canoga Park.
Resources:
District Website: cd3.lacity.gov
Eat: Follow Your Heart Market & Cafe
Website: followyourheart.com/follow-your-heart-market-and-cafe
Learn: Leonis Adobe Museum
Website: www.leonisadobemuseum.org
Play: Lanark Skatepark
Address: 21816 Lanark St, Canoga Park, CA 91304
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MHD Off The Record’s 'City in All Directions' highlights the best places to eat, learn, and play throughout Los Angeles. From hidden gems to community favorites, this segment connects listeners with local spots, resources, and opportunities that enrich life across the city.
For this episode of City in All Directions, we’re heading to the Westside of LA to explore Council District 11, represented by Councilmember Traci Park. This district covers some of LA’s most famous neighborhoods like Venice, Playa del Rey, Westchester, Mar Vista, Ladera, Pacific Palisades, Brentwood, Playa Vista, and Sawtelle.
Resources:
District Website: cd11.lacity.gov
Eat/Learn: Sawtelle Japantown
Tsujita LA Artisan - www.tsujita.com/sawtelle-la
Sushi Tsujita - www.yelp.com/biz/sushi-tsujita-los-angeles
Izakaya Sasaya - izakaya-sasaya.com
Japanese Institute of Sawtelle - sites.google.com/sawtellegakuin.org/jis
Learn/Play: Will Rogers State Park
Website: www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=626
Play/Learn: Electric Lodge
Website: www.electriclodge.org
Address: 1416 Electric Ave, Venice, CA 90291
Phone: (310) 306-1854
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On this episode, Chavonne Taylor speaks with Destination Crenshaw artist Patrick Henry Johnson. Patrick Henry Johnson is an internationally acclaimed visual artist based in Los Angeles. Johnson was born in Valdosta, Georgia Johnson attended The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale, Florida before moving to LA to further his career as an artist. In 1993, Johnson undertook a five-year apprenticeship with an international mural company where he learned the basics of mural making and began to hone his own unique style. Johnson’s artwork can be seen in various parts of Los Angeles including a 72 x 14-foot mural titled “Penta-Loom Ode to Soldiers” at 51st Street and Central Avenue depicting the cost of war to the human soul. He is also well known for his iconic mural “Elixir: The Rebirth” at Crenshaw Blvd. and Stocker St. and created original illustrations for Maryum Ali’s children’s book “I Shook Up the World: The Incredible Life of Muhammad Ali.”
Resources:
Instagram: @iampatrickhenryjohnson
www.DestinationCrenshaw.la
Community Announcements
The 2nd District Business Interruption Fund
LA County Supervisor Holly Mitchell is offering Business grants up to $10,000 to support those impacted by recent challenges.Deadline to apply is Thursday, November 7, 2024For more information and to apply, visit bit.ly/SecondDistrictBIFDHS Mobile Clinics
The LA County Department of Health Services is bringing mobile clinics offering free medical care to our unhoused neighbors. The clinic will be available on October 17th, from 9 AM to 2 PM, at the HOPICS Manchester Navigation Center, 729 West Manchester Avenue, Los Angeles, 90044.For more information or additional dates and locations, call 562-385-8554 or email [email protected].
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MHD Off The Record’s 'City in All Directions' highlights the best places to eat, learn, and play throughout Los Angeles. From hidden gems to community favorites, this segment connects listeners with local spots, resources, and opportunities that enrich life across the city.
For our first episode of City in All Directions, we’re heading to the heart of the San Fernando Valley to explore Council District 6, represented by Councilmember Imelda Padilla. This district covers a diverse range of neighborhoods, including Sun Valley, Panorama City, Arleta, and Lake Balboa.
Resources
District website: cd6.lacity.gov
Eat: El Carrusel Bakery
Website: carruselbakery.com
Locations in District:
VAN NUYS
14851 Victory Blvd Van Nuys, CA 91411
(818) 988-3797
ARLETA
13923 Van Nuys Blvd Arleta, CA 91331
(818) 896-7999
Learn: Valley Relics Museum
Website: valleyrelicsmuseum.org
Location in District:
Van Nuys Airport
7900 Balboa Blvd. Lake Balboa, CA 91406
Hangar C 3 & 4
Play: Sepulveda Basin
Websites:
www.laparks.org/park/sepulveda-basin-sports-complex
www.laparks.org/aquatic/balboa
lariverrecreation.org/sepulveda-basin-river-recreation-zone
engineering.lacity.gov/sepulveda-basin-vision-plan-final-plan-available
thejapanesegarden.com
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On this episode, we speak with Kellie Hart, founder of the RideWitUs LA Bike Store and Co-founder of the RideWitUs LA Bike Club, an organization dedicated to promoting cycling culture and community engagement. The Ridewitus Bike Club offers group rides, cycling education, and events that bring people together through their shared love of biking. The associated store provides quality cycling gear and equipment, catering to both beginners and experienced cyclists. Under Kellie Hart's leadership, the club has grown into a hub for cyclists of all backgrounds, fostering a sense of unity and encouraging healthy, active lifestyles.
Resources:
www.ridewitus.com
www.instagram.com/ridewitus_la
Community Announcements:
Build Your Future Job Fair
Thursday, September 19th 10 AM to 1 PM at the 400 W Washington Blvd, Culinary Arts Building E3 at LA Trade Tech College . For more information and to register, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/build-your-future-job-fair-tickets-1002617244167?aff=oddtdtcreatorSports and Entertainment Supplier Diversity Summit
Thursday, October 10 9 AM to 2 PM L.A. Convention Center 1201 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90015RSVP now at bit.ly/LASESD2024Sitdown W/ a Staffer
Praise in the Park Gospel Music Festival
September 28th 10AM to 5PMSt. Andrews Park 8701 S St Andrews Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90047www.instagram.com/praiseintheparkla
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On this episode, we speak with Lisa Collins, founder and publisher of LA Focus, a monthly newspaper dedicated to highlighting news relevant to LA’s African American community. A passionate Los Angeles native, Lisa aims to equip Black Angelenos with essential information and resources, emphasizing the church's role in community empowerment. Before founding LA Focus, she served as the gospel editor at Billboard Magazine for over a decade and established the renowned “The Gospel Music Industry Round-Up.” Her entertainment reporting career includes interviews with notable entertainers such as Richard Pryor, Michael Jackson, and Prince. With over 300 articles published in national outlets like Essence, Collins is a notable figure in both journalism and community advocacy.
Resources:
www.lafocusnews.com
Phone: (310) 677-6011
Community Announcements:
Cool Spots LA
The Climate Emergency Mobilization Office brings us 'Cool Spots LA,' a city resource for finding public facilities to cool down and escape the heat during the summer.Visit Climate4LA.org/CoolSpotsLASign up for NotifyLA extreme heat alerts at emergency.lacity.orgCrenshaw Farmers Market
Every Saturday from 10am - 3pm (rain or shine)Located in the Historic Fire Station 54 parking lot at 5730 Crenshaw Blvd (off of Crenshaw and Slauson, adjacent to U.S. Bank)Link: foodaccessla.org/crenshaw-farmers-marketSitdown w/ a Staffer Resources:
www.aging.lacity.gov
www.ad.lacounty.gov
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On this episode, we speak with Jonathan Kinnard, co-founder of Coffee Del Mundo, a specialty coffee shop located in South Los Angeles. Originally from Tennessee, Jonathan transitioned from the insurance industry to coffee after studying roasting in Turkey. His café is dairy-free and supports Black and Latinx communities, promoting non-European coffee traditions and direct relationships with farmers. Jonathan’s vision is to foster social change through conscious consumerism and to bring people together by celebrating cultural diversity through coffee. Coffee Del Mundo is known for its high-quality, ethically sourced coffee and dedication to sustainability.
Resources:
www.coffeedelmundo.com
Community Announcements:
Metro Mobility Wallet
Applications for Phase II of the Mobility Wallet are now open. This prepaid debit card allows recipients to use various transportation services, including Metro Bus, Metro Rail, Metro Micro, bikeshare, e-scooters, taxis, ride-hailing (Uber/Lyft), regional transport (Greyhound, Amtrak, FlixBus), and even bike shop purchases. Participants can receive up to $1800 to spend on these shared transportation options.For more information and to apply, visit metro.net/mobilitywallet1Cool Spots LA
The Climate Emergency Mobilization Office brings us 'Cool Spots LA,' a city resource for finding public facilities to cool down and escape the heat during the summer.Visit Climate4LA.org/CoolSpotsLASign up for NotifyLA extreme heat alerts at emergency.lacity.org
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On this episode, we speak with Chris Young, co-founder of Air West, an elite basketball run + youth clinic based in Los Angeles. Currently, they host a free weekly basketball clinic in Exposition Park for youth ages 5 to 13. Here, kids can work with expert trainers to help them develop their skills.
Chris has an extensive background in sports instruction and community engagement. He served as a basketball instructor for the City of Los Angeles, conducting clinics, evaluations, and coaching teams in the Junior Clippers League and the Clippers Late Night Hoops League. Chris also served as an Assistant Varsity Coach at Leuzinger High School, where he mentored NBA players Russell Westbrook, Dorell Wright, and Delon Wright, further showcasing his dedication to nurturing young talent. Through Air West, he aims to mentor the next generation of basketball stars, fostering their skills and personal development.
Resources:
www.airwestla.com
Community Announcements:
Metro Mobility Wallet
Applications for Phase II of the Mobility Wallet are now open. This prepaid debit card allows recipients to use various transportation services, including Metro Bus, Metro Rail, Metro Micro, bikeshare, e-scooters, taxis, ride-hailing (Uber/Lyft), regional transport (Greyhound, Amtrak, FlixBus), and even bike shop purchases. Participants can receive up to $1800 to spend on these shared transportation options.For more information and to apply, visit metro.net/mobilitywallet1Crenshaw Farmers Market
Every Saturday from 10am - 3pm (rain or shine)Located in the Historic Fire Station 54 parking lot at 5730 Crenshaw Blvd (off of Crenshaw and Slauson, adjacent to U.S. Bank)Link: foodaccessla.org/crenshaw-farmers-marketSitdown with a Staffer Resources
Western Our Way
tinyurl.com/WesternOurWaytinyurl.com/WOWNotify
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On this episode, we are doing our first posthumous highlight honoring Charlotta Spears Bass, a pioneering African American journalist and civil rights activist, best known for her work with the California Eagle, one of the oldest and longest-running African American newspapers in the United States. For this conversation, we speak with historian and author Susan Anderson. Susan is the History Curator and Program Manager at the California African American Museum here in Los Angeles, and a member of the editorial board of California History journal. Previously, she was Director of Collections, Library, Exhibitions and Programs at the California Historical Society in San Francisco, as well as Interim Chief Curator at the African American Museum & Library at Oakland, and Curator of Collecting Los Angeles at UCLA Library Special Collections. Susan was also featured on PBS’s special on Charlotta Bass titled “Unladylike” and is the author of Nostalgia for a Trumpet: Poems of Memory and History.
Resources:
www.pbs.org/wnet/americanmasters/charlotta-spears-bass-first-black-woman-vp-nominee-epkd15/15441/
www.nytimes.com/2024/02/07/us/california-black-history-month.html
www.heydaybooks.com/authors/susan-d-anderson/
caamuseum.org
Community Announcements:
Summer Night Lights
Join us from now to August 10th, every Thursday through Saturday, 6 PM to 11 PM, for a summer filled with fun, food, and festivities. for participating parks visit Instagram.com/mhdcd8Metro Mobility Wallet
Applications for Phase II of the Mobility Wallet are now open. This prepaid debit card allows recipients to use various transportation services, including Metro Bus, Metro Rail, Metro Micro, bikeshare, e-scooters, taxis, ride-hailing (Uber/Lyft), regional transport (Greyhound, Amtrak, FlixBus), and even bike shop purchases. Participants can receive up to $1800 to spend on these shared transportation options.For more information and to apply, visit metro.net/mobilitywallet1
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On this episode, we speak with Carlos Spivey and Mona Gotoy, Founder and co-Founder of Barber Gurus inc., a nonprofit dedicated to empowering young barbers through training, mentorship, and community service. Carlos, a seasoned barber and educator, founded the organization to nurture new talents and provide community support, including free haircuts for those in need. Mona, with her background in finance, serves as the Vice President, enhancing financial literacy and organizing various workshops. Together with Treasurer and partner Cameron Ellis, they embody the mission of Barber Gurus Inc., using their diverse skills to foster a new generation of skilled and socially conscious barbers.
Resources:
www.barbergurusinc.org
www.instagram.com/barber_gurus
Sitdown w/ a Staffer Resources:
myla311.lacity.org
cd8.lacity.gov
Community Announcements
Cool Spots LA
The Climate Emergency Mobilization Office brings us 'Cool Spots LA,' a city resource for finding public facilities to cool down and escape the heat during the summer.Visit Climate4LA.org/CoolSpotsLASign up for NotifyLA extreme heat alerts at emergency.lacity.orgSummer Night Lights
Join us from July 5th to August 10th, every Tuesday through Saturday, 6 PM to 11 PM, for a summer filled with fun, food, and festivities. for participating parks visit Instagram.com/mhdcd8
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On this episode, MHD speaks with music icon, Patrice Rushen about her journey as a youth learning and performing music to becoming one of the most accomplished musicians in the world. She shares insights into how her musical education started in her early childhood and why it is important to continue to invest in youth arts education today.
Patrice Rushen is an award-winning musician, composer, and one of the most sought-after artists in the music industry. A classically trained pianist, she gained fame in the '70s and '80s with her fusion of jazz, pop, and R&B, including the hit "Forget Me Nots." A four-time Grammy nominee, Rushen has composed scores for film and television and served as the first female musical director for major award shows like the Grammys and Emmys. Renowned as a top jazz pianist, she has performed with legends like Stevie Wonder and Herbie Hancock. She has also held prominent academic roles, including as the Ambassador of Artistry in Education at Berklee College of Music and Chair of the Popular Music Program at USC's Thornton School of Music. Additionally, she works with various organizations to support music education and mentorship for underprivileged youth.
Resources:
www.patricerushen.com
www.music.usc.edu/patrice-rushen
www.college.berklee.edu/people/patrice-rushen
Community Announcements:
Hire LA’s Youth Program
Job programs available include:
LA:RISE Youth Academy which provides 250 hours of work experience for housing insecure Angelenos between the age of 18 an 30.LA Community College-City Pathways an internship program designed to provide college students with invaluable exposure to wide range of career opportunities available with the CitySummer Night Lights program which hires young people ages 16 to 24 to coordinate activities at our participating parks and recreation centers To view the full list of available programs and to apply, visit hirelayouth.comSouth LA Pride
Save the date for South L.A. Pride Saturday, July 13th from 12 pm to 8 pm at the Michelle and Barack Obama Sports ComplexEvent will include live performances, food, shopping and more South LA Pride Committee is still accepting applications for vendors and volunteersFor more information visit southlapride.comCouncil District 8 Resources:
www.mhdcd8.com
www.instagram.com/mhdcd8
www.facebook.com/mhdcd8
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For this episode, MHD talks basketball, entrepreneurship, voting and more with Assemblymember Isaac Bryan, Social Entrepreneur Karim Webb and guest host Nick Hamilton of The Nick Hamilton Experience.
Nick Hamilton is the founder of Nitecast Media, a platform created to address the perspectives and needs of Black communities and other communities of color. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Nick's passion for writing began in high school under the guidance of his teacher, Mr. Larry Strauss. Despite facing challenges and doubts, Nick's dedication to media led him to create a company that emphasizes authentic storytelling in sports, entertainment, and tech. Nick has worked in the media industry for over 15 years, with his work featured on SIRIUSXM, SB Nation, NBC, AXS.com, AP, iHeartMedia, BBC News, KCBS (Los Angeles), and Forbes. He holds an AA degree in Journalism and Communications from El Camino College. Nitecast Media has covered prestigious events such as The Oscars, ESPYs, BET Awards, and Super Bowls, providing a platform for voices often overlooked by mainstream media.
www.instagram.com/nickhamiltonla
podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nh-experience/id1263300531
Isaac G. Bryan represents California's 55th Assembly District, including Baldwin Hills, Culver City, and parts of South Los Angeles. He is Chair of the Committee on Natural Resources and the Select Committee on Poverty and Economic Inclusion and serves on several other committees, including Appropriations and Judiciary. Elected Secretary and Treasurer of the California Legislative Black Caucus in 2022, he is a founding member of the Renters Caucus. His legislative achievements include phasing out oil drilling near homes, ending prison gerrymandering, and protecting students from predatory insurance practices. Before his Assembly tenure, Bryan led initiatives addressing racial injustice, served as Director of Organizing for the Million Dollar Hoods project, and authored the first holistic report for Los Angeles on the needs of formerly incarcerated Angelenos.
a55.asmdc.org
www.instagram.com/ib2_real
Karim Webb is an Entrepreneurial Activist and Principal at Webb Investments, focusing on economic opportunities in underserved areas. He co-founded Positive Cash Flow (PCF) Restaurant Management, a Buffalo Wild Wings franchisee in Los Angeles, and earned a spot on the 2021 NRN Power List for his industry leadership. Webb serves as President of the Board of Airport Commissioners for Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) and holds various board positions, including the California Community Foundation and Everytable. He is also a Venture Partner at Slauson & Co., a Partner at Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen, and a spokesperson for BLOOM, a CCF initiative supporting young Black males in South Los Angeles.
www.karimwebb.com
www.instagram.com/karimwebb
Community Announcements:
Friends of Hyde Park Book Club
Meetings take place every fourth Saturday of the month from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Location: Hyde Park Miriam Matthews Branch Library For more information, call (323)750-7241 or visit -
Connie Rice, is a lawyer and author renowned for coalition legal cases and campaigns that fight systemic injustice to advance multiracial democracy. Her work has won over $10 billion in damages and policy changes that expanded safety and opportunity for millions in poor neighborhoods. Rice’s advocacy has earned over 50 major awards and prompted Los Angeles Magazine to call her “the voice for LA’s oppressed. In 2013, Rice won the John W. Gardener Award for being “the indispensable architect of the transformation of…Los Angeles’ approach to both policing and to its longstanding gang epidemic.” In 2014, President Barack Obama appointed Rice to his President’s Taskforce on 21st Century Policing. Former LAPD Chief of Police Charlie Beck, whom Rice sued before becoming an ally, called Rice, “The Conscience of [Los Angeles].”
Resources:
Article: www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2024-02-15/police-los-angeles-lapd-karen-bass-michel-moore-dominic-choi
Article: www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2022-12-11/los-angeles-police-department-community-safety-partnership
Community Announcements:
Friends of Hyde Park Book Club
Meetings take place every fourth Saturday of the month from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Location: Hyde Park Miriam Matthews Branch Library For more information, call (323)750-7241 or visit www.lapl.org/whats-on/events/friends-hyde-park-book-clubCD8 Parks Summer Programming
Algin Sutton Park Summer Block Party kicks off June 8th From 11 AM to 3 PM, join us to meet our CSP Officers and engage with the community. Event includes a resource fair, interactive activities, delicious food, and pool party.Recreation and Parks’ Summer Day Camp from June 17th to August 9th every weekday from 8 AM to 3 PM. Participating locations include Algin Sutton, St Andrews, Harvard, Loren Miller, Denker, Van Ness, and Mt Carmel parks. Contact local park to register. You can find their contact information at laparks.orgTo stay up to date on all of our summer activities and all of our events throughout the year, subscribe to our newsletter (cd8.lacity.gov/subscribe)and follow us on Instagram (@MHDCD8) and Facebook (facebook.com/mhdcd8).
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On this episode, Chavonne Taylor speaks with Tanisha Hall, founder of the White Hall Arts Academy, a performing and visual arts education facility here in South Los Angeles. Founded in 2011, the White Hall Arts Academy offers a blend of classical and contemporary arts training to children and adults. Tanisha is a graduate of Berklee College of Music with an instrumental focus on voice. She has been teaching private lessons since 2002 and has enjoyed a 15-year career in the music industry before starting White Hall Arts Academy. She, along with her team of highly talented and qualified instructors, specializes in teaching voice, various musical instruments, studio engineering, stage performance, acting, videography, songwriting, microphone technique, music production and so much more.
Resources:
www.whitehallacademy.or
www.instagram.com/whitehallartsacademy
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The 1992 Los Angeles Uprising was sparked after a jury acquitted four LAPD officers who had been charged with using excessive force in the arrest and beating of Rodney King on April 29, 1992. For the anniversary of the civil unrest, MHD and his co-host, Chavonne Taylor, discuss new policing and public safety models with PUSH LA (Promoting Unity, Safety & Health in Los Angeles) convener Leslie Cooper Johnson and former LAPD Officer Brian S. Bentley.
Leslie Cooper Johnson is the Vice President of Organizational Development at Community Coalition, or CoCo, a social justice organization in South Los Angeles, where she has worked for the past 15 years. A lifelong resident of Inglewood, she received her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Southern California. As part of her role at CoCo, Leslie convenes the PUSH LA collective, which stands for Promoting Unity, Safety & Health in Los Angeles. PUSH LA was formed in response to decades of racist policing and has a mission to “reimagine protect & serve.”
Brian S. Bentley is an author and a former LAPD officer. His first book, One Time: The Story of a South Central Los Angeles Police Officer, graphically depicts his involvement in suspect beatings and describes in detail the gratification he and his partners received from their actions. He claims some officers are addicted to violence and can't stop on their own. His book lets readers see firsthand how police brutality is accepted and encouraged in law enforcement. Bentley spent most of his career at Southwest Division. He was one of the few LAPD officers who lived in the division they patrolled.
Resources:
REIMAGINING TRAFFIC SAFETY & BOLD POLITICAL LEADERSHIP IN LOS ANGELES
Episode Spotify Playlist
Community Announcements
Hire L.A. Day Job Fair
Thursday, May 2, from 4 PM to 8 PM at Los Angeles Southwest College, in the Multipurpose Room located at 600 West Imperial Highway.Visit www.HireLAYouth.com for more informationVermont-Slauson Development Corporation Workshops
May Business Workshops Visit vsedc.org/event for schedule or call (323) 753-2335 for more informationBallona Wetlands Ecological Reserve Event
On Saturday, May 4th the LAPL and Los Angeles Audubon Society hosts an Open Wetlands event at the Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve, with the collaboration of Nature Nexus Institute staff. Volunteers help visitors learn about the unique ecosystems found at Ballona. Binoculars are available to borrow.Nature Nexus will pick up participants for free at the Hyde Park Library and ferry them to the Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve! For more information and to RSVP email: [email protected]://www.lapl.org/whats-on/events/visit-ballona-wetlands-nature-nexus-institute-1
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On this episode, Chavonne Taylor speaks with the owners and founders of Word of Life Christian Bookstore. The bookstore was founded by Joseph and Evelyn Curtiss in 1961 following their move to South LA during the Great Migration. As the oldest operating Black Bookstore in Los Angeles, it has become a community pillar, managed and now owned by their son Jonathan Curtiss and his wife LaShalle, who celebrate 35 years of marriage. Alongside their two adult sons, they ensure the bookstore's growth and its mission to support the community through connections with over 500 churches and faith-based organizations. The Curtiss family's dedication extends through the United Gospel Outreach, a nonprofit offering essential services to South LA families, established by Joseph and Evelyn in 1968.
Resources:
www.shopwordoflife.com
6321 West Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90043
323-295-8223
Community Announcements
SCOPE Seeds of Unity Fest
Saturday, April 20th from 11am to 3pm at Harvard Park Located at 1535 W. 62nd StreetLink to register: https://secure.everyaction.com/grvfVypwikK9xqN1Co52kQ2Crenshaw Farmers Market
Every Saturday from 10am - 3pm (rain or shine)Located in the Historic Fire Station 54 parking lot at 5730 Crenshaw Blvd (off of Crenshaw and Slauson, adjacent to U.S. Bank)Link: foodaccessla.org/crenshaw-farmers-marketSit Down with a Staffer Resources:
Economic and Development Workforce Department (ewddlacity.com)
Vermont Slauson Economic Development Corporation (vsedc.org)
My LA 311 (myla311.lacity.org)
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