LA Parks News and Information

2011-12-05T15:13:00.000-08:00

IT'S THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR

The Return of DOWNTOWN ON ICE at Pershing Square

Los Angeles - Ladies and gentlemen, girls and boys....The Department of Recreation and Parks (RAP) is proud to announce the return of DOWNTOWN ON ICE, Los Angeles' largest outdoor skating rink with the lowest admission!!!

RAP celebrated the opening of the popular Southland tradition on Thursday, November 17, 2011. The Opening Ceremony was hosted by Olympic Champion Tara Lipinski who was joined by special guest Snoopy from "It's Christmas, Snoopy" at Knott's Berry Farm.

For the 14th year, Downtown On Ice provides a spectacular holiday destination for residents and visitors at Pershing Square everyday from November 17, 2011 through January 16, 2012. The outdoor rink will be open Monday through Thursdays from 12:00pm to 10:00pm and Friday through Sunday 10:00am to 10:00pm. From December 18 through January 2 there will be special extended holiday hours and the skating rink will be open from 10:00am to 10:00pm daily. Pershing Square is centrally located in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles at 532 South Olive and is easily accessible by car, bus and Metro.

Admission costs are $6 for a one-hour skate session and $2 for skate rentals. Metro and Metrolink riders can save $1 on skating sessions with a valid Metro pass, Metro Rail ticket, Destination Discount card or discount coupon that is available on all mass transit lines.

Pershing Square will also be hosting their annual FREE Winter Concert Series that includes Hoilday Lunchtime Concerts and 12 Nights of Christmas. The Lunchtime Concerts will include a variety of fun family friendly music such as Country, Folk, Rock, Classic Rock, Disco, Alternative and of course Holiday music. Lunchtime will be jamming from December 19 to January 6 from 12:00pm to 2:00pm. And don't forget that every Wednesday, Pershing Square also holds it's award winning Farmer's Market. Pershing Square's 12 Nights of Christmas celebration includes a Holiday "sing and skate" caroling, Santa Swing Style and Rock Around the Rink. The evening concerts will run December 12 through December 23 from 8:00pm to 10:00pm.

For more information on Downtown On Ice call Pershing Square at 213.847.4970 or visit www.laparks.org/pershingsquare/index.html.

2011-11-01T14:53:00.000-07:00

A DOG-GONE SPOOKY HALLOWEEN

A BASH at Sepulveda Basin Off-Leash Dog Park

Encino - Dogs -- big and small, short legs and tall and hairy and scary -- showed up in festive attire and looking for a dog-gone spooktacular time at Sepulveda Basin Off-Leash Dog Park's Halloween Bash on Sunday, October 30, 2011.

The Department of Recreation and Parks and volunteers from the Sepulveda Basin Off-Leash Dog Park Park Advisory Board hosted the event that featured a doggie costume contest, park clean-up and a free Halloween photo area for the participating pooches.

A Monster Clean-up of the dog park kicked-off the festivities. Volunteers helped fill holes, clean chairs and benches, and scoured the premises of any unwanted trash. At 4pm all of the costumed canines gathered to see if they won Spookiest, Most Original or Judges Choice. The three winners then battled for the coveted title of Best in Show, which went to Dorothy and her three furry friends The Lion, The Tin Man and The Scarecrow!!

Congratulations to all the winners and thank you to all the volunteers and attendees. It truly was a dog-gone spooktacular Halloween this year at Sepulveda Basin Off-Leash Dog Park!!!

2011-11-01T14:45:00.002-07:00

CELEBRATING A PLAYFUL ADDITION

Dedication of Lanark RC Playground &

Summer Night Lights Program Tour

Canoga Park - The City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks (RAP) proudly celebrated the dedication of a new playground and other improvements at Lanark Recreation Center on Wednesday, August 31, 2011 at 8:30pm. RAP General Manager Jon Kirk Mukri was joined by Mayor Antonio R. Villaraigosa and Councilmember Dennis P. Zine. The celebration also included a tour of the Summer Nights Lights (SNL) Program at Lanark RC.

The new state-of-the-art playground includes a 2-5 year old section and a "Jelly Fish" structure (donated by Play Power). The handicap accessible playground is a playful addition to the popular park. Other improvements include new basketball courts, volleyball courts, a new gym floor, a new roof and air conditioning.

Lanark Recreation Center is located at 21816 Lanark Street in Canoga Park 91304.

MEDIA CONTACT: Andrea Epstein, 213.202.2690

BLOG CONTACT: Amy A. Garcia, 818.243.6488

2011-11-01T14:44:00.001-07:00

FIVE DOWN, THREE TO GO

Dodgers Dreamfield at Pan Pacific Rec Center

Los Angeles - The Department of Recreation and Parks (RAP) celebrated the opening of the twelfth Dodgers Dreamfield in the City of Los Angeles on Saturday, July 23, 2011. Pan Pacific's Dreamfield was made possible through a partnership between RAP and The Dodgers Dream Foundation and the LA84 Foundation. RAP General Manager Jon Kirk Mukri, Councilmember Tom LaBonge (4th District), the Dodger's Senior Vice President Howard Sunkin and LA84 Foundation's Vice President Patrick Escobar were all on hand to celebrate the fifth Dodgers Dreamfield to be built in 2011 in Los Angeles.

Dodger pitcher Javy Guerra and former Dodgers Tommy Davis, Wes Parker, Kenny Landreaux and Bobby Castillo helped celebrate the opening of the new facility and ran clinics after the ceremony for the Pan Pacific baseball players.

Renovations to the new field include refurbished backstop, fencing, outfield and infield turf. New dugout roofs, irrigation system, and infield/outfield transition turn, solar powered scoreboard, scoreboard signage and field signage were also added.

The Pan Pacific Dodgers Dreamfield is the fifth of eight fields to be dedicated in the City of Los Angeles in 2011. At the beginning of this year, the Dodgers Dream Foundation and LA84 Foundation announced a commitment to build Dreamfields at eight RAP facilities. Dodger Dreamfields already completed this year are Northridge RC, Martin Luther King, Jr. RC, Pecan RC and Lemon Grove RC. The three remaining fields that are set to be dedicated by the end of the year are Valley Plaza RC, Ritchie Valens RC and Harbor City RC.

The Pan Pacific Dodgers Dreamfield is located at 7600 Beverly Blvd in Los Angeles 90036.

MEDIA CONTACT: Andrea Epstein, 213.202.2690

BLOG CONTACT: Amy A. Garcia, 818.243.6488

2011-10-17T15:39:00.000-07:00

SKATING & GRINDING, SLIDING & SWINGING

Dedication of Westchester Skate Plaza & Playground

Westchester - The Department of Recreation and Parks (RAP) dedicated our 17th skate facility at Westchester Recreation Center on Friday, July 22, 2011. RAP's Commission President Barry A. Sanders and General Manager Jon Kirk Mukri were joined by Councilmember Bill Rosendahl (11th Distict), Charles Annenberg Weingarten and professional skateboarders Eric Koston and Steve Berra to officially open the and dedicate the Westchester "Explore.org/ The Berrrics" Skate Plaza along with a new accessible playground and other park improvements.

The new 9,700-square-foot skate plaza was made possible through RAP funding and a $125,000 grant from the Annenberg Foundation's Explore.org, a non-profit capacity building initiative. Westchester's "Explore.org/The Berrics" Skate Plaza was built by California Skateparks and features a variety of elements such as stair sets, rails and hubbas and is designed for hardcore street skating. Professional Skateboarders Luan Oliviera, David Gonzales, Curren Caples, Kurtis Colamonico and Braydon Szfranski were all on hand to test out the plaza, along with tons of local and not so local skaters. The opening of the new state-of-the-art skate plaza brought out skaters from as far as Carson City, Nevada.

The celebration also included something for the kiddies. A new sea-themed accessible playground was dedicated. The limitless playground features swings, slides and interactive elements for children of all abilities. The Westchester project also included the relocation of the park's outdoor basketball court, a newly designed park entry way, improvements to the recreation center, irrigation and landscaping.

Westchester Park is located at 7000 West Manchester Blvd, Los Angeles 90045.

MEDIA CONTACT: Andrea Epstein, 213.202.2690

BLOG CONTACT: Amy A. Garcia, 818.243.6488

2011-10-17T15:05:00.000-07:00

BREAKING GROUND

North Hollywood Multi-Purpose Center

North Hollywood - The Department of Recreation and Parks, Councilmember Tom LaBonge and the Bureau of Engineering pulled out the shovels and hard hats for the North Hollywood Multi-Purpose Center Groundbreaking Ceremony on Thursday, July 21, 2011.

The ceremony celebrated the start of construction on a new ADA accessible 2,200-square-foot facility. When complete, the one-story wood framed building will feature a multi-purpose room, lobby area, storage and equipment rooms, restrooms, a staff office and break room. Landscaping and outdoor amenities will include a children's play area, solar powered lighting, outdoor fitness exercise equipment, picnic tables, perimeter fencing and a new parking lot.

The North Hollywood Multi-Purpose Center Project is set to be complete by Fall 2012.

MEDIA CONTACT: Andrea Epstein , 213.202.2690

BLOG CONTACT: Amy A. Garcia, 818.243.6488

2011-10-17T14:00:00.000-07:00

A PLAYFUL UPGRADE

Dedication of a new PLAYGROUND at Louise Park

Van Nuys - The Department of Recreation and Parks, new Councilmember Mitchell Englander and a handful of eagered kids proudly dedicated a new playground at Louise Park in Van Nuys on Thursday, June 30, 2011.

The new Louise Park Playground features slides, swing, climbing apparatuses and shade structures. The equipment upgrade was a much-needed project, tree roots had broken the perimeter of the old playground's sand pit and posed a safety hazard for visiting children.

After the official dedication and cutting of the red ribbon, the new playground was filled with happy sliding, swinging and laughing children!!

Louise Park is located at 7140 Louise Avenue in Van Nuys 91406.

MEDIA CONTACT: Andrea Epstein, 213.202.2690

BLOG CONTACT: Amy A. Garcia, 818.243.6488

2011-06-30T11:22:00.004-07:00

92 ACRES, 360 VIEWS, A PREMIERE OPEN SPACE Dedication of Ascot Hills Park Phase II

East Los Angeles - The Department of Recreation and Parks, along with Mayor Antonio R. Villaraigosa, Councilmember Jose Huizar (14th District) and the El Sereno community, proudly dedicated Ascot Hills Park on Saturday, June 25, 2011.

The celebration included performances by the Wilson High School Marching Band and Drill Team. A traditional native blessing of the grounds was also performed by students and staff from Semillas Community School.

With its offical dedication and opening, Ascot Hills Park is one of the largest parks in the City of Los Angeles. The 92-acre parkland has an outdoor amphitheater/classroom, hiking trails with interpretive signage, ADA paths, full stream restoration, picnic areas, irrigation and native landscaping. The premiere parkland features a 360-view of downtown L.A., the San Gabriel Valley and surrounding mountains.

Ascot Hills Park provides the local community and visitors with a beautiful natural parkland in the middle of the City of Angels. Ascot is located at 4731 Multnomah Street in Los Angeles 90032.

MEDIA CONTACT: Andrea Epstein, 213.202.2690

BLOG CONTACT: Amy A. Garcia, 818.243.6488

2011-06-30T11:22:00.003-07:00

SUMMER IS OFFICIALLY HERE!!!!

Summer Swim Season 2011 & Operation Splash Kick-Off

Los Angeles - Summer is here.......let the SWIMMING begin!!!! Throw on your swim suits and apply the sunscreen!! The first week of summer has brought warm temperatures and with that comes the start of the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks' summer swim season and Operation Splash!!

Recreation and Parks celebrated the kick-off of the 2011 Summer Swim Season and Operation Splash at Downey Pool on Friday, June 24, 2011. Mayor Antonio R. Villaraigosa, Councilmember Ed P. Reyes (First District), Kaiser Permanente's Vice President of Public Affairs Diana Bonta, LA84 Foundation's Vice President of Grants and Programs Patrick Escobar and community members were all on hand to help cut the blue ribbon and make the first splash of the 2011 swim season.

The kick-off celebration marked the opening of the Department's seasonal pools (outdoor locations only opened during the summer months) and the beginning of Operation Splash and LA84 scholarships and sponsorships.

The Department of Recreation and Parks is partnering for the sixth straight year with Kaiser Permanente for Operation Splash. For the 2011 summer, the Department received a 265,000 grant from Kaiser Permanente Southern California that will fund free swim lessons for 6,000 low-income youth and adults at 35 pools across the City. The program will also support free junior lifeguard training for 780 low-income youth at 49 city pools and extend the summer swim season for one week at seven locations serving about 10,000 pool patrons.

Over the last 26 years, the LA84 Foundation has consistently assisted the City's efforts to provide Los Angeles youth with access to quality sports programs. For 2011 summer, 1,200 youth will benefit from a generous grant provided by LA84. An $85,000 grant from the Foundation will provide scholarships for free swim lessons and sponsorships for participation in a competitive sport team, such as swimming, diving, water polo and synchronized swimming.

The Department's 35 seasonal pool locations officially opened on Saturday, June 25 and will remain open through the end of August. Seasonal pools offer morning and afternoon public swim sessions. Additionally, 16 year-round pools began their summer schedule and offer afternoon and evening swim sessions to the general public.

Sign-ups for Operation Splash and LA84 scholarships/sponsorships will began on Sunday, June 26 at participating locations and are provided on a first-come first-serve basis. A low-income verification form must be filled out by parents/guardians at the time of registration. For a full list of participating locations visit www.laparks.org/dos/aquatic/aquatic.htm or call (323) 906-7953.

The City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks' Aquatic Division offers a variety of water activities, including recreational swimming, water awareness, adaptive swimming, Team Sports, Junior Lifeguard program and water exercise. For the 13th consecutive year, children age 17 or younger, seniors 65 or older and the disabled can swim for FREE at all City pools. Children ages 3-6 must be potty-trained and accompanied by an adult at all times; children under the age of 3 must wear a swim diaper. The charge for adults ages 18-64 is $2.50; those with a City library card will pay $2.

For more information call the Department's Aquatic Division at (323) 906-7953 or e-mail Citywide.Aquatics@lacity.org.

MEDIA CONTACT: Andrea Epstein, 213.202.2690

BLOG CONTACT: Amy A. Garcia, 818.243.6488

2011-06-30T11:22:00.001-07:00

SUMMER NIGHT LIGHTS

WILL SHINE BRIGHTER IN 2011

Kick-off Press Conference at Lafayette Multipurpose Community Center

Los Angeles - Summer Night Lights (SNL) will shine a little brighter this summer. The Department of Recreation and Parks will enter into its fourth year as a key partner for SNL on Wednesday, July 6, 2011. With an additional eight parks this summer, the crime and gang reduction program will expand to 32 sites. Mayor Antonio R. Villaraigosa announced SNL's expansion from 24 to 32 parks at a press conference on Friday, June 24, 2011 at Lafayette Multipurpose Center.

SNL is a community based innovative program to combat gang violence during the traditionally more violent summer months. The anti-gang initiative keeps City parks open after dark with organized activities such as athletic leagues, art initiatives and family programs, while also providing at-risk youth with job opportunities.

Since it's launch in 2008, Summer Night Lights has proven to reduce crime. Last summer, surrounding SNL area neighborhoods experienced a 40% reduction in gang-related crimes and a 57% reduction in gang-related homicides. In 2010, over 710,000 Los Angeles residents visited SNL site, a total of 382,523 meals were served and 1000 jobs were created because of the program.

SNL has three major components:

1) Extended Hours & Programming: between July and September, SNL sites extend their program hours from 7pm to midnight four nights a week (Wednesday - Saturday). Expanded programming includes community-centered recreational, educational and artistic programming to engage youth in positive activities during peak times for violence.

2) Youth Squad: 10 community youth groups are hired to create and staff the extended hours and programs (320 city-wide). Youth Squad members are at-risk, ages 17-20 and receive stipends for the duration of the program. Training is provided to the Youth Squad prior to the kick-off of the program and includes topics such as life skills, communication and community outreach.

3) Cease-Fire/Maintaining Peace: Community intervention workers are assigned to each SNL site to help keep the peace at the site, in the surrounding communities, to address potential conflicts and to assist in identifying resolutions to conflicts. Their participation contributes to maintaining a high level of safety and community participation at the SNL sites.

SNL has been recognized as a national model for violence reduction and community empowerment. The program has been presented at conferences and has inspired cities across the nation to launch their own successful summer anti-gang programs.

The 2011 participating recreation centers and parks are:

SNL Returning Sites

1) Cypress Park

2) Delano

3) Glassell Park

4) Highland Park

5) Hubert Humphrey

6) Imperial Courts

7) Jackie Tatum/Harvard Park

8) Jim Gilliam

9) Jordan Downs

10) Lemon Grove

11) Lou Costello

12) Martin Luther King

13) Mount Carmel

14) Nickerson Gardens

15) Normandale

16) Ramona Gardens

17) Ramon Garcia

18) Ross Snyder

19) Sepulveda

20) Slauson

21) South Park

22) Valley Plaza

23) Van Ness

SNL 2011 New Sites

1) Montecito Heights

2) Lafayette

3) Lanark

4) Sun Valley

5) Algin Sutton

6) Green Meadows

7) Toberman

8) El Sereno

9) Wilmington

SNL has expanded each year since it's launch and is supported by a combination of public and private funds. For more information or to find an SNL site close to you call the Department of Recreation and Parks general information line at 213.202.2700.

MEDIA CONTACT: Andrea Epstein, 213.202.2690

BLOG CONTACT: Amy A. Garcia, 818.243.6488

2011-06-23T14:16:00.002-07:00

NIGHT & DAY SUMMER HIKES
June & July hiking schedule

Griffith Park - Summer is officially here and with it comes warm weather that is perfect for hiking! Ranger Ernie will be leading 6 different hikes in June and July and 3 will be night hikes!

The first hike will be a nocturnal adventure on Friday, June 24 starting at 7pm at the Ranger Station (4730 Crystal Spring Drive, Los Angeles 90027). The evening hike will be a 2-hour trek through Griffith Park. Pack your water, snacks and, since it'll be night time escapade, remember to bring a jacket and flashlight. Two more evening hikes will be available on Friday, July 15 and Friday, July 29. Same time and same starting place (Ranger Station).

Day hikes will also be offered on 3 Saturdays; June 25, July 16 and July 30. These 2-hour excursions are ideal for beginner hikers but are open to everyone. The hiking voyages will begin at 8am at the Griffith Observatory parking lot (2800 E. Observatory Road, Los Angeles 90027) and will be a 2-hour trek through Griffith Park.

Those planning to participate should dress accordingly and bring drinking water and snacks. For more information about any of the hikes, contact Ranger Ernie Ybarra at (323) 644-6661 or by e-mail at ernie.ybarra@lacity.org.

2011-06-23T14:15:00.001-07:00

RIGHT BEFORE THE SUMMER HEAT

Unveiling of Shade Structure at Warner Ranch Park Playground

Woodland Hills - The Department of Recreation and Parks and Councilman Dennis P. Zine (3rd District) unveiled a new shade structure at the Warner Ranch Park playground on Thursday, May 26, 2011. The shade structure will provide children with needed protection from the sun on hot days.

With about a month before the beginning of summer, the unveiling of the shade structure comes just in time to beat the summer heat. The playground shade structure was designed and installed to protect children from the damaging UV Rays and extreme heat that can lead to skin cancer, burns and heat stroke. The new shade structure will keep the play surfaces and sand up to 20 degrees cooler and allows children to play in the park even on the hottest summer days when temperatures can reach well into the 100's. The design is a Multi Level/Multi Panel Super Span (50' x 60') with multiple layers of fabric to increase the shade coverage, as well as enhance the existing visual aesthetic of the playground. Quimby fees funded the $88,480 project.

Warner Ranch Park is located at 21820 Califa Street in Woodland Hills.

MEDIA CONTACT: Andrea Epstein, 213.202.2690

BLOG CONTACT: Amy A. Garcia, 818.243.6488

2011-06-06T13:32:00.001-07:00

ANOTHER PARK TRANSFORMATION

Dedication of Rockwood-Colton Pocket Park

Los Angeles - Located in the heart of the Los Angeles Oil Field, Rockwood-Colton Park is a great example of a truly remarkable park transformation. The Department of Recreation and Parks and Council President Eric Garcetti (13th District) dedicated the new pocket park on Saturday, May 7, 2011.

The transformation of this formerly contaminated property into a half acre neighborhood park was not an easy task. Oil wells existed on the property from approximately 1906 through 1970. Environmental investigations were completed to make sure the land was safe. Once safety was determined, community meetings were held for input on the park's design.

Rockwood-Colton Park has a children's play area, picnic tables and park benches. The eco-friendly pocket park also boasts solar lighting and a smart irrigation system. Funding for the new park was provided by the Environmental Protection Agency's Brownfields Program and voter-approved state park bonds.

Rockwood-Colton Park is located in historic Filipinotown at 1571 Rockwood Street, Los Angeles 90026.

MEDIA CONTACT: Andrea Epstein, 213.202.2690

BLOG CONTACT: Amy A. Garcia, 818.243.6488

2011-06-06T13:31:00.002-07:00

OUR THIRD "BIG BLUE" BASEBALL FIELD

Dedication of Pecan's Dodgers Dreamfield

East Los Angeles - Recreation and Parks celebrated the opening of the tenth Dodgers Dreamfield in the City of Los Angeles on Saturday, May 14, 2011. Former Dodgers Bobby Castillo, Tommy Davis, Al Downing, Kenny Landreaux and Wes Parker, along with current Dodger pitcher Kenley Jansen, were all on hand to help celebrate the opening of the new field at Pecan Recreation Center in Boyle Heights.

Renovations to the new field included re-grading of the infield, new sod in the outfield, refurbished fencing and new dugout roofing, batting cage, outfield wind screen, LED scoreboard and signage.

The new Dodgers Dreamfield at Pecan is the third field the Department has dedicated in 2011. At the beginning of this year, the Dodgers Dream Foundation in partnership with the LA84 Foundation announced a new commitment to build Dreamfields at eight Recreation and Parks facilities. The five remaining locations that will receive Dreamfields are Pan Pacific RC, Ritchie Valens RC, Lemon Grove RC, Harbor City RC and Valley Plaza RC.

Pecan Recreation Center is located at 145 South Pecan Street in Los Angeles 90033.

MEDIA CONTACT: Andrea Epstein, 213.202.2690

BLOG CONTACT: Amy A. Garcia, 818.243.6488

2011-06-06T13:31:00.001-07:00

5 ACRES OF NEW PARKLAND

& 13 MORE TO FOLLOW

Dedication of Phase I of Elysian Park-Riverside Park

Elysian Park - The City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks, Council President Eric Garcetti (CD 13), members of the Citizens Committee to Save Elysian Park and community members celebrated the dedication of Phase I of Elysian Park-Riverside Park.

The new 5 acres of parkland combine natural features of the area with new lawn and graded areas. The park has two multipurpose game courts, passive recreation lawn areas, children's playground, picnic tables, trails with nature interpretive signs and an outdoor classroom. The Proposition K funded project also included a new parking lot, smart irrigation system, fencing and more. The park's design included the preservation of all existing native oak and walnut trees.

The creation of Elysian Park-Riverside Park was a community effort. The City purchased the 18 acres of undeveloped land in 1999 and the Citizen's Committee to Save Elysian Park played a huge role in the process. Phase II will provide the expansion of Phase I's hiking trails which will connect the new park to Elysian Park to the east and the Red Car Property parkland to the west.

Elysian Park-Riverside Park is located at 1800 Riverside Drive in Los Angeles 90012.

MEDIA CONTACT: Andrea Epstein, 213.202.2690

BLOG CONTACT: Amy A. Garcia, 818.243.6488

2011-06-06T13:30:00.001-07:00

THEY ASKED & WE'RE DELIVERING

Groundbreaking Ceremony for Skate Plaza @ Jackie Tatum/Harvard

South Los Angeles - Like every other place in the world, skateboarding has become extremely popular in South Los Angeles. And like so many places, skater's do not have a designated skate park and use an open area at a local park. Skaters and their parents have been asking for a skate park and the City of Los Angeles Department or Recreation and Parks are answering their need.

A groundbreaking ceremony was held for a new skate plaza at Jackie Tatum/Harvard Recreation Center on Tuesday, April 26, 2011. Councilmember Bernard C. Parks (CD 8), representatives from the Bureau of Engineering and Recreation and Parks, and community members were there to celebrate the start of construction.

When complete, the 10,000-square-foot skate plaza will include grinding ledges, rails, staircases, ramps, a quarter pipe, planters and various transition elements. The new skate plaza will help create a safe haven for local and visiting skaters to practice their skills. The project also includes other outdoor park improvements including a new pathways, fencing, irrigation and security lighting.

Jackie Tatum/Harvard Recreation Center is located at 1535 West 62nd Street in Los Angeles 90047.

MEDIA CONTACT: Andrea Epstein, 213.202.2690

BLOG CONTACT: Amy A. Garcia, 818.243.6488

2011-04-19T11:30:00.000-07:00

FROM ONTARIO TO LOS ANGELES

Dedication of Cardenas Safe Spot Skate Spot

Panorama City - The City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks in partnership with Professional Skateboarder Rob Dyrdek proudly dedicated Los Angeles' fifth Safe Spot Skate Spot at the Andres & Maria Cardenas Recreation Center in Panorama City on Monday, April 18, 2011.

The newest Skate Spot is approximately 4,500-square-feet and was designed and constructed by California Skateparks. The Cardenas Skate Spot features course obstacles donated from STREET LEAGUE's (DC's Professional Skateboarding tour) 2010 Ontario, CA stop. Central to the plaza is the colored ledge over manual pad, which was slightly modified to make it more skate-able. A flat bank, grinding hand rail and perimeter ledges give the new skate plaza it's unique flow.

The opening of the Andres and Maria Cardenas Safe Spot Skate Spot illustrates both Recreation and Parks' and the Rob Dyrdek Foundation's commitment to provide safe and legal skate plazas for your youth and adults. The Andres & Maria Cardenas Safe Spot Skate Spot is located at 14740 Blythe Street in Panorama City 91402.

MEDIA CONTACT: Andrea Epstein, 213.202.2690

BLOG CONTACT: Amy A. Garcia, 818.243.6488

2011-04-19T11:28:00.000-07:00

13 YEARS + 19 LOCATIONS = LIMITLESS PLAY

Dedication of a UAP at Van Nuys/Sherman Oaks

Sherman Oaks - It started 13 years ago in Griffith Park, the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks (RAP) in partnership with non-profit Shane's Inspiration dedicated and opened the first Universally Accessible Playground in the Western United States and the largest in the nation. And that was just the beginning......

Together Recreation and Parks and Shane's Inspiration created a powerful partnership that has revolutionized playground design and utilization. This important collaboration has brought a strong voice to many that were never given the opportunity to simply play in a park. Working together, RAP and Shane's Inspiration encouraged the City to pass a Universally Accessible Playground initiative that promised at least one UAP in every Council District. Then the needed change began to happen and the opportunities for play became limitless.

On Thursday, April 14, 2011, Recreation and Parks and Shane's Inspiration proudly dedicated the 19th Universally Accessible Playground at Van Nuys/Sherman Oaks Park. This tremendous accomplishment has made the City of Los Angeles the most playable City in the World.

The new 9,300-square-foot UAP is completely wheel-chair accessible and features two sand and water activity centers, slides, bucket swings and a cool mister. The universal play area also has resilient rubberized surfacing, shade canopies and benches. The project was funded by Proposition 40 and designed by Shane's Inspiration with help from Public Works' Bureau of Engineering.

Van Nuys/Sherman Oaks Universally Accessible Playground will bring children of all abilities together to play. The UAP's dedication also marked an important accomplishment for RAP and Shane's Inspiration. Catherine Curry-Williams, founder of Shane's Inspiration, spoke at the ribbon cutting and said, "Today I have the amazing gift of hearing and seeing our mission come to reality." Thank you Shane's Inspiration for being such an important part of the City of Los Angeles Recreation and Parks' family!!

**The Van Nuys/Sherman Oaks UAP is located at 14201 Huston Street in Sherman Oaks 91423.

MEDIA CONTACT: Andrea Epstein, 213.202.2690

BLOG CONTACT: Amy A. Garcia, 818.243.6488

2011-04-18T16:19:00.001-07:00

ONE PHASE DOWN, ONE MORE TO GO

Dedication of Phase I of South LA Wetlands Park

South Los Angeles - The Department of Recreation and Parks, Councilwoman Jan Perry (9th District) and the Bureau of Engineering proudly celebrated the completion of Phase I of the South Los Angeles Wetlands Park Project on Thursday, March 31, 2011.

The South Los Angeles Wetlands Park project includes the development of a nine-acre parkland at the intersection of 54th and Avalon. The wetlands project will transform an old MTA bus yard into a sustainable nature park that will feature a recreation space, educational center, solar powered lighting and a storm water treatment area. When complete, the new park will provide educational opportunities and wildlife viewing. The storm water treatment area will assist in minimizing the introduction of pollutants including; bacteria, oil, grease, gasoline, suspended sediments and heavy metals, all of which are components of urban runoff that ultimately are washed into receiving waters.

Phase I of the project created a one-acre green space for activities such as cycling, photography and bird watching and includes an outdoor classroom with educational signage. Phase II will include the construction of a rail museum and community meeting place. The South Los Angeles Wetlands Park will be landscaped with native California plants and will create indigenous habitats for native wildlife including various species of birds, mammals and reptiles.

Since more than 95% of California's natural wetlands have been lost to development projects, the South Los Angeles Wetlands Park is an important restoration project that represents a renewal of nature in the South LA community. Phase II of the project is expected to be complete in December 2011.

MEDIA CONTACT: Andrea Epstein, 213.202.2690

BLOG CONTACT: Amy A. Garcia, 818.243.6488

2011-04-18T15:21:00.000-07:00

STATE-OF-THE-ART IMPROVEMENTS

Groundbreaking at Westchester Rec Center

Los Angeles - The Department of Recreation and Parks (RAP) in partnership with the Los Angeles Parks Foundation, the Annenberg Foundation, Explore.org and The Berrics officially broke ground at Westchester Recreation Center for a new skate park, universal playground and other improvements on Monday, April 11, 2011.

The $1 million improvement project is being funded by Quimby funds and a generous donation of $125,000 from the Annenberg Foundation and Explore.org that will fund the skate plaza portion of the project. The new skate plaza was designed by Jason King and Steve Berra from The Berrics, and Joe Ciaglia from California Skateparks. California Skateparks will construct Westchester's skate spot. The plaza is replacing an old outdoor basketball court. RAP redesigned the space around the skate area to accommodate the plaza, give a fresh new look and tie in all the physical factors that make up the space.

The project also includes the installation of a universal playground for children of all abilities and lighting improvements to the tennis courts and parking area. The new playground, designed by Gametime, will feature a "California Coastal Experience" theme and will be wheelchair accessible. The improvement project is expected to be completed by the end of the summer.

THANK YOU to all the partners who made this project possible!!!

MEDIA CONTACT: Andrea Epstein, 213.202.2690

BLOG CONTACT: Amy A. Garcia, 818.243.6488

2011-04-18T13:44:00.000-07:00

ANOTHER DREAM COME TRUE 2nd Dodgers Dreamfield for RAP in 2011

Los Angeles - The City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks (RAP) in partnership with the Dodgers Dream Foundation, the LA84 Foundation unveiled a new Dodgers Dreamfield at Martin Luther King, Jr. Recreation Center on Saturday, April 2, 2011.

Councilmembers Bernard C. Parks (8th District) and Jan Perry (9th District), RAP General Manager Jon Kirk Mukri, LA84 Foundation Vice President Patrick Escobar, Dodger owner and chairman Frank McCourt and Dodger legends Fernando Valenzuela, Maury Wills, Tommy Davis, Bobby Castillo and Kenny Landreaux were all at the celebration, which included live music, a DJ and baseball clinic.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Recreation Center's new Dodgers Dreamfield features a new batting cage, outfield wind screen, LED scoreboard and signage. The field fencing and dugout covers were also refurbished. An murals depicting Valenzuela, Wills and former Dodger manager Joe Torre overlook the outfield.

The latest Dreamfield is the ninth Dodger Dreamfield run by the Department of Recreation and Parks and is the second Dodgers ball field to be dedicated in 2011, as part of the new Foundation commitment. The new commitment will build another six Dreamfields at RAP facilities. The additional locations set to receive Dreamfields are Pan Pacific RC, Ritchie Valens RC, Lemon Grove RC, Pecan RC, Harbor City RC and Valley Plaza RC.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Recreation Center is located at 3916 South Western Avenue in South Los Angeles 90062.

MEDIA CONTACT: Andrea Epstein, 213.202.2690

BLOG CONTACT: Amy A. Garcia, 818.243.6488

2011-03-31T14:11:00.000-07:00

A VERT & STREET SKATING MECCA

Grand Opening of Lincoln Park Skate Spot

East Los Angeles - They had been waiting for weeks. Watching and anticipating what the new Lincoln Park Skate Spot would look like, feel like and flow like. And then the day finally came when the skate spot was complete and a new vert and street mecca was born. Hundreds of local skateboarders flocked to Lincoln Park Skate Spot for the grand opening to test out the new spot made just for them!

The Department of Recreation and Parks (RAP) in partnership with the LA84 Foundation, NIKE Skateboarding, the Paul Rodriguez Skateboarding Foundation and Councilmember Ed P. Reyes proudly dedicated the redesigned Lincoln Park Skate Spot on Saturday, March 5, 2011.

Lincoln Park Skate Spot blends vert and street skating and features hubba ledges, rails, a mini double-set, flat bar and Euro gap. A snake run at the top of the skate spot completes the unique design. The new skate spot also has a section where fans can watch skaters grind and ollie. The park was designed and built by California Skateparks with help from key employee and legendary professional skateboarder Lance Mountain.

After the official ceremony and a quick Q & A session with professional skateboarder Paul "P-Rod" Rodriguez, Nike SB team riders Omar Salazar, Theotis Beasley, Rodrigo Peterson, Danny Supa, Daniel Lebron, Shane O'Neill and Lance Mountain, joined P-Rod and tested out the new spot and then signed autographs for fans.

The new Skate Spot is the Department's 15th skateboarding facility. Lincoln Park is located at 3501 Valley Blvd in East Los Angeles 90031. For more information on this location or other skate parks run by the City of Los Angeles visit our facebook page "SKATE IN LA".

MEDIA CONTACT: Andrea Epstein, 213.202.2690

BLOG CONTACT: Amy A. Garcia: 818.243.6488

2011-03-29T12:06:00.000-07:00

ALL AGES & ALL ABILITIES ARE WELCOMED

Dearborn Park UAP Dedication

Northridge - The Department of Recreation and Parks (RAP) in partnership with Shane's Inspiration proudly dedicated the City of Los Angeles' 18th Universally Accessible Playground (UAP) at Dearborn Park on Saturday, March 5, 2011.

The new UAP boasts a sea life theme and features decorating paneling, such as dolphins and whales, throughout the playground. Approximately 6,600-square-feet, Dearborn's Universally Accessible Playground has 2 separate playgrounds for 2-5 year-olds and 5-12 year-olds. The wheel-chair accessible play area has resilient rubberized surfacing, a sand pit, shade canopies, cool mister, benches and a drinking fountain. The $723,000 all access playground was funded by Proposition 40 and designed by Shane's Inspiration with help from Public Works' Bureau of Engineering.

The Dearborn UAP is an exciting and important addition for the neighborhood park. The new UAP is completely wheel-chair accessible and can be utilized by children of all ages and all abilities. RAP and Shane's Inspiration are proud to be providing the Northridge community with a playground that will help bring all children together to play and learn from each other. Dearborn Park is located at 17141 Nordhoff Street in Northridge 91330.

MEDIA CONTACT: Andrea Epstein, 213.202.2690

BLOG CONTACT: Amy A. Garcia, 818.243.6488

2011-03-24T15:50:00.000-07:00

A PLETHORA OF IMPROVEMENTS

Norman O. Houston Park Improvement Project

Los Angeles - A neighborhood park with a breath-taking view, Norman O. Houston Park has always been a special place for residents to come together for play, recreation and relaxation. Now, after the dedication of a plethora of improvements, Houston Park will provide even more recreational opportunities for the L.A. community.

The Department of Recreation and Parks, along with Councilmember Bernard C. Parks (8th District) and the Houston Family celebrated the Norman O. Houston Park Improvement Project Dedication on Friday, March 4, 2011.

The improvement project included the installation of a half-mile natural surface jogging path, outdoor fitness equipment, benches, picnic tables, solar security lighting, playground equipment, smart irrigation system and new landscaping, including 25 large canopy trees.

RAP also unveiled and dedicated a new commemorative plaque, recognizing the amazing man the park is named after. Norman Olivier Houston, a pioneer of the Black Industry, was the co-founder of the largest black-owned insurance company west of the Mississippi, the first Black American elected to the California State Athletic Association, co-founder and chairman of the Board of Broadway Federal Savings and Loan Association (which in 1980 was the largest black-owned savings and loan in California) and he also served as President of the Los Angeles branch of the NAACP and was a member of Los Angeles' first Human Rights Commission. Mr. Houston was an incredible individual and RAP is honored to have a park in his memory that will provide residents with a positive place to come together and enjoy the numerous park amenities.

Norman O. Houston Park is located at 4800 South La Brea Avenue in Los Angeles 90008. The park is open everyday from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm.

MEDIA CONTACT: Andrea Epstein. 213.202.2690

BLOG CONTACT: Amy A. Garcia, 818.243.6488

2011-03-24T15:05:00.000-07:00

A PLAYFUL IMPROVEMENT

Dedication of Hermon Park Playground

East Los Angeles - The Department of Recreation and Parks (RAP) and Councilmember Jose Huizar (14th District) proudly dedicated a new state-of-the-art playground at Hermon Park on Thursday, March 3, 2011.

The new playground is ADA-compliant and features swings, slides, climbing apparatuses and rubberized surfacing. The project also included additional security lighting throughout the park and new irrigation.

RAP is excited to be providing the local community with a new playground for their families to enjoy! Hermon Park is located at 5568 Via Marisol in Los Angeles 90042. The park is an unstaffed location and is open to the public from dawn to dusk. For more information call RAP's general information line at 213.202.2700.

MEDIA CONTACT: Andrea Epstein, 23.202.2690

BLOG CONTACT: Amy A. Garcia, 818.243.6488

2011-03-24T14:09:00.000-07:00

A SNEAK PREVIEW

Open House for Ascot Hills Park Phase II

East Los Angeles - Community members near Ascot Hills Park in the El Sereno area received a special treat on Wednesday, March 2, 2011. The Department of Recreation and Parks and Councilmember Jose Huizar (14th District) hosted an Open House to preview the Ascot Hills Park Phase II improvements. Councilmember Huizar, RAP General Manager Jon Kirk Mukri and community members came together to see the park's development so far.

The Councilmember, General Manager and Park Advisory Board President Val Marquez each said a few words about the much-anticipated Ascot Hills project, while Wilson High School Band and Cheerleaders provided entertainment.

Open House visitors were then led on tours by RAP Park Rangers to preview the the progress of Ascot's improvements, which include an outdoor amphitheater/classroom, ADA paths, full stream restoration, picnic areas, irrigation and native landscaping.

When complete, Ascot Hills will be one of the largest parks in the City of Los Angeles. The parkland features a 360-view of downtown L.A., the San Gabriel Valley and surrounding mountains. Ascot will provide local residents and visitors with a beautiful natural parkland in the middle of the City of Angels.

Ascot Hills Park has been a difficult but worthy fight. Development plans for the 92-acre parkland were put on hold in December 2008 due to the State funding freeze of Proposition 40. With the funds now available and determination from Councilmember Huizar, RAP and community members, Ascot Hills Park Phase II is set to be complete and officially dedicated in mid-April 2011. Ascot Hills Park is located at 4731 Multnomah Street in Los Angeles 90032.

MEDIA CONTACT: Andrea Epstein, 213.202.2690

BLOG CONTACT: Amy A. Garcia, 818.243.6488

2011-03-14T13:20:00.000-07:00

Mayor Antonio R. Villaraigosa taking the first basketball shot in Lafayette's new gymnasium.

HOLA, LAFAYETTE PARK RECREATION CENTER

Celebrating a new state-of-the-art facility and a powerful partnership

Los Angeles - The Department of Recreation and Parks (RAP), Heart of Los Angeles (HOLA) and the Everychild Foundation celebrated the Grand Opening of the new $9.8 million Lafayette Recreation Center in Central Los Angeles on Thursday, February 24, 2011.

The new 15,000-square-foot facility was designed by the award winning firm Kanner Architects and features brand new multipurpose classroom spaces, a technology lab and a state-of-the-art gymnasium. The eco-friendly center is a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Certified - Green Building and is designed to be energy efficient. The gymnasium uses only natural light during the day and solar lighting is used throughout the building. The Lafayette Park Recreation Center project was funded by Proposition K, Quimby fees and a generous gift of $700,000+ from HOLA.

Lafayette Park's new Recreation Center is a result of the historic public-private partnership between RAP and HOLA. RAP and HOLA have formed an innovative partnership and are both dedicated to supporting local community needs. Lafayette's transformation was created with the goal of providing a versatile campus that would provide exceptional academic, arts, recreation and athletic programs to the surrounding underserved community. The new Recreation Center will house joint RAP and HOLA programs, covering a myriad of activities benefiting youth and their families from the local community.

The opening of Lafayette marked an important milestone for RAP and the City of Los Angeles. Mayor Antonio R. Villaraigosa, City Controller Wendy Greuel, Councilmember Herb J. Wesson and City Engineer Gary Lee Moore were all on hand to help celebrate and cut the ceremonial red ribbon.

Lafayette Park Recreation Center is located at 625 South Lafayette Park Place in Los Angeles 90057. RAP is very proud to provide the Lafayette community with a new Recreation Center that will increase recreational opportunities and positive programming. Thank you, HOLA, you are a great friend and an awesome partner!!!

2011-03-07T14:59:00.000-08:00

A PASSIVE PARK BY THE PACIFIC

Groundbreaking Ceremony for Potrero Canyon Park

Pacific Palisades - RAP celebrated the long awaited Groundbreaking Ceremony for Potrero Canyon Park on Thursday, February 24, 2011. The celebration marked the start of the first phase of construction of the 45.7-acre park.

The Potrero Canyon Park Project will include stabilizing the slope below the residences at 211 and 231 Alma Real Drive, stabilizing the canyon walls, controlling surface water run-off and the creation of a natural park with approximately 8-acres of riparian habitat. The new parkland will be landscaped with California native plants and hiking trails will be constructed within the park that will connect Palisades Recreation Center to the Pacific Coast Highway and the beach.

The first year of construction will include filling more of the canyon for stabilization. The canyon will be raised about 20-feet by approximately 173,000 cubic yards of fill.

Potrero Canyon has a long history. Over 20 years ago, the City and community members began planning the transformation of the canyon into a park area. Since then, through on-going starts and stops, the City has slowly been working towards completing an infill project, which involved buttressing the canyon's sides and importing three million cubic yards of fill.

The community has been involved since day one and is still an important part of the project. The Potrero Canyon Citizen Advisory Board meets monthly to work with the Palisades community on the park plans.

The Restoration Project is being funded by the Potrero Canyon Trust Fund, an account established to hold and distribute money solely for the creation and completion of the multi-decade park project.

Potrero Canyon Park is located 15000 Pacific Coast Highway in Pacific Palisades.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrea Epstein: 213.202.2690

Amy A. Garcia: 213.202.2689

2011-03-07T11:59:00.000-08:00

IF YOU BUILD IT, THEY WILL COME & PLAY!

Northridge RC Dodgers Dreamfield Grand Opening

Northridge - Over 100 kids from Northridge Recreation Center were buzzing with excitement as Dodger players and legends walked onto the center's new Dodger Dreamfield. Rafael Furcal, Matt Kemp, Jay Gibbons, Tony Gwynn, Gabe Kaplar, Fernando Valenzuela, Don Newcombe, Steve Garvey, Shawn Green, Ron Cey and "Sweet" Lou Johnson were all on deck to celebrate the Grand Opening of RAP's eighth Dodgers Dreamfield at Northridge RC on Tuesday, February 15, 2011.

The new ball field is the first Dreamfield in the San Fernando Valley and marks the start of a new Dodger Dream Foundation commitment. This past summer, the Dodger Dream Foundation in partnership with the LA84 Foundation and RAP announced plans to build nine new Dodgers Dreamfields in the Los Angeles area, with eight of the fields being built at RAP facilities.

The eight RAP locations include: Northridge RC, Pan Pacific RC, Ritchie Valens RC, Lemon Grove RC, Pecan RC, Martin Luther King, Jr. RC, Harbor City RC and Valley Plaza RC.

Each new Dreamfield will receive upgrades to the backstops, the addition of roofs over the dugouts, bleacher and bench upgrades, irrigation improvements, regrading to insure smooth and consistent playing surfaces and renovation of field turf or, where necessary, installation of new sod. A new feature that debuted at the Northridge Dodgers Dreamfield is a solar powered scoreboard, with the tag line "Think Blue, Act Green."

RAP General Manager Jon Kirk Mukri, Dodger owner Frank McCourt, LA84 Foundation President Anita DeFrantz and Councilmember Greig Smith, along with Dodger broadcasters Charley Steiner and Pepe Yniguez were all in attendance to open Northridge's Dodgers Dreamfield. After the ceremonial first pitch was thrown, the Dodger players and legends hosted five clinic stations and signed autographs for their pint-sized fans.

RAP is extremely grateful to our two generous partners, the Dodger Dreamfield Foundation and the LA84 Foundation, for this incredible commitment. Through this partnership we will rebuild and renovate eight baseball fields to give them a myriad of upgrades, as well as a whole new look and better playability. THANK YOU for making L.A. a better place to play!!!

Northridge Recreation Center is located at 18300 Lemarsh Street in Northridge 91325.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrea Epstein: 213.202.2690

Amy A. Garcia: 213.202.2689

2011-02-23T14:29:00.000-08:00

TEN NEW WAYS TO STAY ACTIVE

Dedication of Outdoor Fitness Equipment at Eagle Rock RC

Eagle Rock - Whip out your tennis shoes and sweat bands, it's time to get ACTIVE! Eagle Rock Recreation Center has some new healthy improvements. The Department of Recreation and Parks dedicated new Outdoor Fitness Equipment at the popular East L.A. park on Tuesday, February 15, 2011. RAP's General Manager Jon Kirk Mukri and Councilmember Jose Huizar helped cut the ceremonial red ribbon to officially open up the new equipment to the community.

The $70,000 project includes the installation of ten pieces of outdoor fitness equipment. Park patrons can work out almost every part of their body. The fitness equipment available at Eagle Rock RC include: a 2-person vertical press, power rower, double horizontal bar, 2-person airwalker, 2-person cross country skier, 2-person lying leg curl, dual inclined crunch bench, stair climber, dual inclined crunch bench, stair climber, dual pendulum and a 4-person leg press. The easy-to-operate equipment uses the body's mass for resistance instead of a weighted system which allows the fitness gear to be used by people of all ages and stages of physical shape. Councilmember Huizar demonstrated how simple it is to use the new equipment by jumping on the stair climber in his suit and dress shoes!

Funding for the exercise equipment project came from developer fees. RAP's Planning and Construction Division designed the improvements and RAP's Citywide Construction Forces installed the outdoor equipment.

RAP is pleased to be providing the Eagle Rock community with fitness amenities to help encourage healthy living. Eagle Rock Recreation Center is located at 1100 Eagle Vista Drive in Los Angeles 90041.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrea Epstein: 213.202.2690

Amy A. Garcia: 213.202.2689

2011-02-23T12:06:00.000-08:00

A PLACE TO GATHER, RELAX, PLAY & READ

Dedication of Westwood Gardens Park

West Los Angeles - The Department of Recreation and Parks (RAP) celebrated the dedication of Westwood Gardens Park on Thursday, February 10, 2011. The neighborhood park is located next to the Westwood Library and was designed to provide residents with a beautiful and natural reading area and accommodate activities such as storytelling and outdoor lectures.

Transformed from an old parking lot, Westwood Gardens Park was truly a community effort. The parking lot's transformation was suggested by local community members and Council District 5 and is a reflection of the Citywide Community Needs Assessment that was conducted by RAP from November 2007 through 2009. The community was involved in the design process through Public Outreach Meetings.

The new passive park features benches, decomposed granite paths, landscaping, perimeter fencing and a smart irrigation system. The .29-acre park was constructed by RAP's Planning and Construction Division.

RAP is please to be providing Westwood residents and library visitors with a new pocket park to come together to relax, play and read! Westwood Gardens Park is located at 1264 South Glendon Avenue in Los Angeles 90024. The new park will be open to the public from sunrise to sunset.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrea Epstein: 213.202.2690

Amy A. Garcia: 213.202.2689

2010-12-29T14:28:00.000-08:00

MAKING AN ISLAND OF A DIFFERENCE

Reseda students help Lake Rehabilitation Project

Reseda - Forty Reseda High School students helped install floating islands at Reseda Park Lake on December 17, 2010. The volunteer mission was part of the Reseda Park Lake Rehabilitation Project, which has been underway since August 2010, and was designed to create a more healthy lake.

From 10:00 am to 2:00 pm the students assisted staff with the installation of seven floating islands that consist of a multiple layer of recycled matrix held together by marine-grade foam. The students from Reseda High School's Science Magnet Program also learned about the environmental benefits of the floating islands, which include improved water quality through nutrient uptake, the provision of fish and wildlife habitat and a more attractive park environment.

The Rehabilitation Project is a partnership between RAP, the Office of Councilman Dennis Zine (3rd District) and Public Works. The improvement project is being funded through a $1.169 million State Proposition 40 grant. Engineering improvements, such as the installation of a new aeration system, have already been made by the City's contractor Metro Builders.

The floating islands, totaling 5,000-square-feet, were manufactured for the project by Floating Islands West located in Mokelumne Hill, California and will be anchored at various points in the lake. The islands are a biological approach that yield multiple benefits for the lake's habitat.

THANK YOU Reseda High School for making an island of a difference!!!

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-12-29T11:42:00.000-08:00

CLIPPERS FEED THE COMMUNITY EVENT

At Rancho Cienega Sports Complex

Los Angeles - This year Santa got help from some TALL helpers! He sent six special visitors to Rancho Cienega Sports Complex on December 13, 2010 to make a difference in the lives of 2,400 needy families.

The Los Angeles Clippers Foundation in a joint effort with Feed The Children, The Department of Recreation and Parks and the Salvation Army Siemon Family Youth and Community Center provided 1,600 families from Rancho Cienega Sports Complex and 800 families from the Siemon Family Center with food and every day essentials.

Clippers players Eric Bledsoe, Brain Cook, Ryan Gomes, Eric Gordon, Craig Smith and Willie Warren; along with Clippers staff and season ticket holders handed out food boxes, books and toys to help brighten the lives of children and families in Los Angeles during the holiday season.

The Los Angeles Clippers Foundation exists to foster and support community outreach programs and activities with positive educational, civic, environmental and humanitarian values that benefit and enhance the quality of life primarily for children in greater Los Angeles.

Founded in 1979, Feed The Children began as a nonprofit relief organization dedicated to stopping the needless hunger, suffering and death of hungry boys and girls around the world. Over the course of its 29 year history, Feed The Children has grown into one of the nation's largest, most efficient international charities. Today, Feed The Children delivers food, medicine, clothing and other necessities to individuals, children and families who lack the basics they need to survive due to famine, war, poverty or natural disaster.

A special THANKS to all of the generous partners involved who made this charitable event possible!!!

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-12-20T15:45:00.000-08:00

A NEW UAP INSPIRED BY THE SEA

The 17th Universally Accessible Playground at Glen Alla Park

West Los Angeles - The Department of Recreation and Parks (RAP) proudly dedicated a Universally Accessible Playground (UAP) at Glen Alla Park on Thursday, December 16, 2010. Commission President Barry A. Sanders, Councilmember Bill Rosendahl (11th District), Brad Thornton from Shane's Inspiration and eagered children were all in attendance to celebrate the opening of RAP's seventeenth UAP.

The new limitless playground has a nautical theme and features a ship with a pelican mast head and steering wheel. The play equipment is painted in shades of blue and has decorative maritime-themed panels throughout the playground. Glen Alla's UAP also has a climbing rock designed for scaling with a grassy slope on the backside and a sensory tunnel where children can explore and discover fossils and other textures. There is an accessible sand table with a sea turtle transfer station that helps children in wheelchairs to easily transfer into the sand. Children can also wheel up to the accessible table and hunt for buried fossils. To complete the nautical theme, a huge whale serves as the center piece for the sand area and is perfect for children to climb on and pretend to harpoon.

The $900,000 project was funded by Quimby fees and designed by Shane's Inspiration. Shane's Inspiration is one of RAP's most powerful partners. Over the last 12 years, the Department of Recreation and Parks and Shane's Inspiration have revolutionized playground design and utilization.

Glen Alla Park is located at 4602 Alla Road, Los Angeles 90043. For more information on Glen Alla Park or other Department facilities and/or services call (213) 202-2700.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-12-15T12:22:00.000-08:00

A INNOVATIVE & INSPIRING ADDITION

Dedication of The Carrot Seed Sensory Nook @ Aidan's Place

Los Angeles - The Department of Recreation and Parks and Shane's Inspiration have created a strong and effective partnership over the last 12 years. Together we have built 17 Universally Accessible Playgrounds (UAPs) throughout the City of Los Angeles and revolutionized playground design and utilization. On December 9, we dedicated a Sensory Story Nook at Aidan's Place UAP at Westwood Recreation Complex and reached a new level of limitless play.

Opened in December 2001, the UAP at Westwood was dedicated in memory of Aidan James Gaffney whose parents initiated the project after visiting Shane's Inspiration in Griffith Park. Aidan was born with a rare muscular disorder that left him dependent on a ventilator and wheelchair. Aidan's Place was the second fully accessible playground in the United States.

The Gaffney Family have continued to support Aidan's Place and decided to create a special addition to the playground by raising funds for a Sensory Story Nook inspired by Aidan's favorite book, The Carrot Seed.

The new Carrot Seed Sensory Nook at Aidan's Place is a passive area for reading books with children or for quiet contemplation. The Nook is an ideal place for children with autism or other cognitive disabilities to withdraw from the action of the playground if it becomes overwhelming. It is designed so that the Redwood trees will eventually grow tall enough to provide a sense of enclosure to the space.

Two giant carrots are at the entrance of the sensory nook and the back of the sensory wall is tiled to depict the story of The Carrot Seed. Michelle Griffoul Studios created the tiles as a labor of love. The tiles are different textures and the letters are raised to aid children with sight impairment. There are buttons on the back of the wall that when pushed will emit different nature sounds. This will help children learn cause and effect and will also increase cognitive ability through identifying sounds and their sources. The inside of the nook is decorated with tiles created by Aidan's brothers and their second grade classmates. In addition, there is a poem dedicated to Aidan by his mother, Nicole.

The dedication was a special day for RAP and Aidan's Family. The Gaffney Family attended the celebration and Aidan's brothers helped cut the ribbon and officially open The Carrot Seed Sensory Nook.

Aidan's Place & The Carrot Seed Sensory Nook are located at Westwood Recreation Complex, 1350 Sepulveda in Los Angeles 9005. For more information on this location or the Department visit http://www.laparks.org/ or call 213.202.2700.

MEDIA CONTACTS: Andrea Epstein: 213.202.2690 Amy A. Garcia: 213.202.2689

2010-12-15T11:54:00.000-08:00

A CHILLY SWIM TO START THE NEW YEAR

10th annual Polar Bear Swim at Hansen Dam Aquatic Center

Lake View Terrace - Looking for an exciting way to PLUNGE into 2011? Hansen Dam Aquatic Center will hold it's annual New Year's Day Polar Bear Swim at 8:00 am on Saturday, January 1, 2011. The chilly swim is open to anyone age eight or older.

Swimmers will get a certificate of participation at the FREE event and will enjoy refreshments and a bonfire that will warm them up after their frosty swim. Any and everyone are invited to take a plunge they will never forget and have a polar beary good time.

Hansen Dam Aquatic Center has a 1.5-acre man made swim lake and is located at 11798 Foothill Boulevard in the Lake View Terrace area of the northeast San Fernando Valley. For more information call Hansen Dam at (818) 899-3779.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690
Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-12-15T11:12:00.000-08:00

A CHANCE TO VISIT JOLLY OLD SAINT NICK

8th annual Train Ride to Santa's House at Travel Towm Museum

Griffith Park - The holiday season is here! Instead of waiting for Santa Claus to come to town, go and visit him while he makes his list and checks it twice and let him know you haven't been naughty but super nice!

For the 8th year in a row, Travel Town Transportation Museum in Griffith Park will host the annual Train Ride to Santa's House during the holiday season. On seventeen evenings between Thanksgiving and Christmas, families will be able to take a miniature train ride to visit jolly old Saint Nick.

The first train ride of the season will depart on Saturday, November 27, 2010 at 5:00 pm. Visitors will board at a festively decorated station while being entertained by a dazzling light show. Once aboard, passengers will travel past the reindeer barn and Santa's workshop before arriving at the North Pole, where photos with Father Christmas will be available. After their visit, guests will re-board the train and travel along the decorated 1/4-mile track back to the station.

Tickets are available by reservation and at the gate, if extra seating is available. Tickets are $7 per person; children 18 months or younger can ride for FREE. Reserved tickets can be purchased at the Travel Town ticket booth or online at www.traveltownrailroad.com. Due to a 700 guest limit each evening, advanced ticket purchases are encouraged. Digital photographs with Santa will be available for $5.00 or guests may bring their own camera but will be limited to two shots.

The Train Ride to Santa's House is a wonderful alternative to visiting Santa at the mall and will be the only holiday light show in Griffith Park this year. The annual event is operated by Travel Town Transportation Museum in cooperation with the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks.

This year's schedule is: November 27 & 28, December 3-5, 10-12 and 15-23 from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm (weather permitting train cannot operate in the rain). Travel Town is located at 5200 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles 90027.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690
Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-12-06T16:04:00.000-08:00

CELEBRATING IMPROVEMENTS & ADDITIONS

Dedication Ceremony at Van Ness Rec Center

Los Angeles - The Department of Recreation and Parks dedicated outdoor improvements at Van Ness Recreation Center on Tuesday, November 23, 2010. General Manager Jon Kirk Mukri, Councilmember Bernard C. Parks and City Engineer Gary Lee Moore were all on hand to celebrate the project's completion and help cut the big red ribbon.

Improvements included upgrades to the three baseball fields with the construction of a new batting cage (complete with a pitching machine), a walking track, new exercise equipment, two drinking fountains, new bleachers, dug-out benches and concrete and decomposed granite aprons. The $978,716 project also included the repair of the existing park boundary fence and refurbishment of the irrigation systems.

The new exercise equipment is grouped in three different stations along the walking track and will provide the community with a great way to exercise and stay healthy. The cardiovascular equipment uses the body's mass for resistance instead of a weighted system, which allows it to be used by people of all ages and stages of physical fitness, with no concern of injury. The easy-to-use fitness equipment is designed to be durable, vandal resistant and used in various configurations.

Van Ness Recreation Center is located at 5720 2nd Avenue, Los Angeles 90043. For more information on this location or other department facilities or programs, please call (213) 202-2700.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-12-06T15:33:00.000-08:00

SKATING THROUGH THE HOLIDAY SEASON

13th annual Downtown On Ice at Pershing Square

Downtown Los Angeles - The Department of Recreation and Parks celebrated the return of Downtown On Ice at Pershing Square on Thursday, November 18, 2010. RAP's General Manager Jon Kirk Mukri along with Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Councilwoman Jan Perry official opened the outdoor skating rink with special guests The Rockettes.

In its 13th season, Downtown On Ice provides spectacular holiday fun under the sun and stars at picturesque Pershing Square, 532 South Olive, is open everyday from November 18, 2010 through January 17, 2011.

The tradition continues with Los Angeles' largest outdoor skating rink with the lowest admission price of just $6. As a favorite holiday destination, the facility boasts a medley of FREE events including a holiday concert series, a Winter Holiday Festival, championship skating exhibits and much more.

Framed by towering skyscrapers and stunning historical landmarks, the rink is made possible thanks to sponsorship by the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks and Councilwoman Jan Perry (9th District).

Centrally located in the heart of the City of Angels, the facility is easily accessible by car, bus or Metro. The convenient stop at Pershing Square Station makes getting there easy. Underground discount parking is available with validation. For more information and a detailed session schedule go to http://www.laparks.org/pershingsquare/press.html or call (213) 847-4970.

2010-11-23T10:53:00.000-08:00

2010 PARK HEROES

9th annual People for Parks Awards

Hollywood - Hundreds of park supporters attended the 9th annual People for Parks Awards Ceremony at the Hollywood Bowl on Tuesday, November 9, 2010. The ceremony saluted 6 individuals from the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks for going above and beyond their call of duty.

Here's a list of the City's 2010 Park Heroes:

Andrew Fuerte is a volunteer at East Wilmington Greenbelt Community Center. Andrew is only 12, but has already proven that he is wise and compassionate beyond his years. He once gave his lunch to a younger child who didn't have one, without thinking twice or asking anyone what to do. In 2009, the coaches and parents of the Greenbelt Community Center saluted his dedication by presenting Andrew the basketball league's Sportsmanship Award. Everyone who comes in contact with this Teen Park Hero admires him!

Kenneth Gibbs, Sr. has been a volunteer at Panorama Recreation Center for 10 years. Kenneth led the Park Advisory Board for three years, is an energetic coach, and often fills in as DJ and emcee for special events. When the center recently experienced a shortage of coaches, Kenneth - "Powerman" to his friends - volunteered to coach four basketball teams so participants would not be disappointed. He has also used his cinematic abilities to train teens on the basics of film-making, and has produced two films featuring members of the Panorama Teen Club. Kenneth is a multi-talented and tireless Park Hero!

Martin Cruz is a Recreation Assistant at Normandale Recreation Center. Martin has served in many capacities during 11 years with the Department. He has coached and officiated sports, created programs, and worked with officials and residents to address gang activity, homelessness and other local problems. Martin had even paid registration fees for young people who otherwise would not have been able to participate. This Park Hero is also - literally - a lifesaver! He recently came across a young man who had doused himself in gasoline and was holding a lighter, but was able to convince him that suicide was not the answer!

Ron Dugar has been a Recreation Assistant for the Municipal Sports Section for more than 26 years. Although Ron played softball, he never coordinated a league or umpired a game. As soon as he joined Municipal Sports, though, he saw how his experience as a player could help. Ron learned how to coordinate the league, which now has about 1,000 teams per year, and to officiate, becoming a college official. He eventually became the lead instructor of the section's Umpire Certification Program. Ron also teaches and lectures part-time and full-time employees all over Southern California. Tragically, a few years ago, he suffered a stroke and had to re-learn how to walk and talk. This Park Hero could have retired, but insisted on coming back to what he considers the greatest job on Earth!

Kim Welden & Elaine Piha have worked for Recreation and Parks for more than six years, first as Recreation Assistants, then as Recreation Coordinators, and now as Facility Directors. As part-time employees for the Youth Employment Internship Program, they re-wrote the entire curriculum, retained all the staff and supervised sites. As CLASS Parks Coordinators and as Directors of CLASS sites, Kim and Elaine brought many innovative ideas to their communities, including the hugely successful Princess and Knight Parties. With the help of a dedicated staff and teen volunteers, they transformed their Recreation Center gyms into fantasylands for girls and boys at separate events. They convinced teenagers to dress up and pose for pictures as princesses and knights, and were even able to convince construction employees to build thrones. Kim and Elaine also truly care about their neighbors. A few years ago, they and a small group of co-workers "adopted" a family from each of their Recreation Centers, collected money, and went shopping for the two families. They bought gifts for each member, as well as gifts that could be enjoyed together. These Park Heroines wrapped and delivered all the gifts in time for Christmas - on their own time and with their own money!

CONGRATULATIONS to these inspiring Park Heroes!!!!

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-11-23T09:37:00.000-08:00

RE-GREENING THE LOS ANGELES RIVER

Groundbreaking Ceremony for North Atwater Park

Los Angeles - The Department of Recreation and Parks in collaboration with the Department of Public Works Bureaus of Engineering and Sanitation broke ground on the North Atwater Park Expansion and Creek Restoration Project on Thursday, October 28, 2010. Councilmembers Tom LaBonge (Fourth District), Ed P. Reyes (First District) and Council President Eric Garcetti were on hand to celebrate the plans for the improved parkland.

When complete, the North Atwater Park Project will provide 3-acres of additional parkland featuring a picnic area, demonstration garden, outdoor classroom, concrete play tunnel and sand play area. The project will also restore a creek that connects to the Los Angeles River. Native plant landscaping on the creek banks and along the streambed to prevent erosion and naturally clean stormwater before going out to the river. This project will help the City improve water quality for the L.A. River and is the first City of Los Angeles project in the re-greening of the Los Angeles River.

The North Atwater Park Project was undertaken in connection with the settlement of two Clean Water Act enforcement actions, Santa Monica Baykeeper v. City of Los Angeles and United States, and State of California ex. Rel. California Regional Water Quality Control Board, Los Angeles Region v. City of Los Angeles. This project is also being funded by Proposition 50 through the California Resources Agency to improve River Parkways.

The improvement project is expected to be complete in late 2011.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-11-01T13:29:00.000-07:00

REMEMBERING THE HOLOCAUST

Dedication Ceremony for the Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust

Los Angeles - In 1961 a group of Holocaust survivors were brought together by fate at Hollywood High School while learning to speak English. They shared their stories and discovered that each of them had different artifacts from the Holocaust era. They decided that the special relics needed a permanent home where they could be safely displayed and preserved. Together they founded the Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust.

Now, after fifty years and four different locations, the Los Angeles Holocaust Museum has found a permanent home at Pan Pacific Park, a City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks facility. The new building is located next to the Martyrs Memorial and is partially built underground to preserve the green parkland.

The Department of Recreation and Parks General Manager Jon Kirk Mukri along with Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Councilmembers Tom LaBonge, Eric Garcetti and Paul Koretz, Supervisor Zev Yaroslovsky, Assemblymember Mike Feuer and a group of Holocaust survivors proudly dedicated and opened the new Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust on Thursday, October 14, 2010.

The $18 million structure was created by award-winning architect, Hagy Belzberg. The new museum building has one of the largest green roofs in California and mixes technology advanced exhibits and authentic artifacts. The high-tech design has already received the Los Angeles Cultural Affairs Commission Design Honor Award and the Green Building Design Award.

The museum presents the history of the Holocaust as objectively as possible by displaying original artifacts. The museum's architecture and layout play significant roles in visitors' experiences. The rooms descend and decrease in light as they progress towards the darkest part of history. A powerful and affecting interactive Memory Pool in The World That Was will help build understanding of Jewish life throughout Europe prior to World War II. Other displays include a touch-screen computer table with 25,000 floating photographs and a testimonial wall with 85 video screens that allow visitors to hear survivor stories.

The Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust is the only Los Angeles institution with a sole focus on the events of the Holocaust and FREE admission. Museum attendance is expected to increase to 50,000 visitors per year from the 13,000 average of previous years.

The new museum is located at 100 South The Grove Drive in Los Angeles 90036. For more information visit http://www.lamoth.org/ or call (323) 651-3704.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-10-26T10:29:00.000-07:00

GHOST & GOBLINS & VAMPIRES.......OH MY!!!

Recreation & Park's 2010 Halloween Activities

Los Angeles - With Halloween right around the corner, the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks (RAP) is pulling out the cob webs, broomsticks and spiders in preparation for the SPOOKTACULAR holiday. Recreation and Parks is hosting a wide-variety of spooky activities throughout the City of Los Angeles for everyone to enjoy.

Here's a list of a few thrills that are sure to send chills your way:

-Ride a Haunted Halloween Railroad at Los Angeles Live Steamers Railroad Museum in Griffith Park. The 12th annual Ghost Train Halloween attraction will be offered October 22-24 and October 28-31 from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm each night. The miniature train will depart from "Scarewood" Station and travel through devilish displays of spooky spirits, creepy clowns, witches, vampire babies and other assorted frightful fiends. There is a suggested donation of $7 per person. For more information call (323) 661-8958 or visit http://www.lals.org/.

-Walk if you dare or run if you're scared, through a Horror Haunted House at Westchester Recreation Center. The longest running Haunted House in Los Angeles, Westchester's Horror House has been running for 22 years and is sure to scare the bee geezers out of anyone who dares to visit. These is a $5 fee for ages 8 and up. The Horror Haunted House will be open from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm on Friday, October 29 and Saturday, October 30. On Halloween Day, the Recreation Center will be hosting a Kids Zone with face painting, a trick-or-treat village, super jumper, cotton candy and more from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm. The Haunted House will be open from 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm on October 31. Westchester Recreation Center is located at 7000 West Manchester Blvd, Los Angeles 90045.

-The Cabrillo Marine Aquarium in San Pedro will be transformed into an underwater world of chills, thrills and gills for the 5th annual "Sea Scare" on Saturday, October 30 from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Guests can come in costume and join the masquerade of ghosts and goblins, go trick-or-treating at six themed goodie stations, or walk along the docks of the "Port Town" scare zone. Visit the Aquatic Nursery for a special treasure hunt, scary sea creature feedings and bone tingling cryogenic demonstrations. A band of marauding pirates will provide entertainment and the "Sea Scare Glow Party Zone" will have close-up magic, a hula hoop contest and dancing. Admission is $5 for adults and $1 for children and senior citizens. For more information about the event or costume guidelines call (310) 548-7562 or go to http://www.cabrillomarineaquarium.org/.

-The Monster Mash is sure to be playing at Denker Recreation Center's Teen Club Halloween Dance. The $1 Halloween boogie is open to teens 13-18 with a school ID. Teens can show off their THRILLER moves from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm on Friday, October 29.

- For all the die hard skaters out there, Pedlow Skate Park in Encino is hosting a SCARY Skate Contest from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm on Halloween Day. Show off your Frankenstein ollies, Vampire kick flips and goblin board slides at the "Tricks for Treats" Skate Contest. For more information call (818) 266-6991.

- Visit Sylmar Recreation Center's "Trick or Treat Village" and Halloween Carnival on October 31 from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Local businesses will come together to create a safe and fun "Trick or Treat Village" and hand out candy. A costume contest and carnival rides are just a few of the festivities being offered.

Remember, safety is important to having a Happy Halloween! Here are a few safety tips for your ghostly agenda:

-Help your children pick out or make a costume that will be safe. Make sure costumes are fire proof and the eye holes should be large enough for good peripheral vision.

-Plan a safe route to know where your older children will be at all times. Instruct them to stay on main streets and not to cut through alleyways or dark places.

-Younger children should always be accompanied by an adult when trick-or-treating.

-Instruct your children not to eat any treats until they bring them home to be checked.

-Make sure your children carry flashlights, glow sticks or have reflective tape to make them more visible to cars.

-Go only to well-lit houses and remain on porches rather than entering houses.

-Cross streets at the corner, use crosswalks (where they exist) and do NOT cross between parked cars.

The Department of Recreation and Parks wishes you a HAPPY, SAFE and SPOOKTACULAR Halloween!!!

**For a complete list of Halloween Activities hosted by the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks visit http://www.laparks.org/pdf/halloweenevents.pdf or call (213) 202-2700.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-10-26T09:39:00.001-07:00

HIKE THROUGH GRIFFITH PARK

Seven trips through the end of 2010, with something for all skill levels

Griffith Park - The City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks will offer seven hikes covering all skill levels to various locations in Griffith Park through December, each led by one or more park rangers. The starting point will either be the Griffith Park Ranger Station, 4730 Crystal Springs Drive, or Griffith Observatory, 2800 E. Observatory Road.

Saturday, November 6: A six mile intermediate level trek starting at the Ranger Station at 8 am that will follow the Mineral Wells Trail to the composting facility, then along the Skyline Trail to the Golden State Freeway Trail, ending at the Ranger Station at 11 am.

Friday, November 26: Sixth annual Day After Thanksgiving excursion to the Hollywood Sign. The intermediate to advanced level 10-mile roundtrip hike will begin at the Ranger Station at 8 am and will go to Bill Eckert Trail, Vista Del Valle Drive, Upper Mulholland Trail and Mt. Lee Drive. There will be a photo opportunity and the journey will end at 1 pm.

Saturday, November 27: An eight-mile advanced level challenge from the Observatory to West Observatory Road, Mt. Hollywood Road, Upper Mulholland Trail and Mt. Lee Drive. The most strenous section follows to Cahuenga Peak Trail, which leads to Burbank Peak and the "Magic" Tree, named for its resilience through droughts and fires, with a spectacular panoramic view. This hike will begin at 8 am.

Saturday, December 4: Half-marathon, the route and time for which has yet to be determined.

Friday, December 17: A three-mile night hike (6:30 pm to 9 pm) for beginners from the Ranger Station to the Mineral Wells Picnic Area and back.

Hikers should dress accordingly for the time of day and year, and bring plenty of water and snacks. For more information about the hikes call (323) 644-6661, ext. 1549.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-10-19T11:54:00.000-07:00

AN UNDERWATER WORLD OF CHILLS, THRILLS & GILLS

5th annual "Sea Scare"at Cabrillo Marine Aquarium

San Pedro - Cabrillo Marine Aquarium will hold its 5th annual "Sea Scare" Halloween program on Saturday, October 30, 2010 from 6:00pm to 9:00pm. The Aquarium will be transformed into an underwater world of chills, thrills and gills.

Guests can come in costume and join in the masquerade of ghouls and goblins, go trick-or-treating at six themed goodie stations, or walk along the docks of the "Port Town" scare zone. All while, a band of marauding pirates will entertain with crazy antics and bad pirate jokes.

Visit Cabrillo's Aquatic Nursery for a special treasure hunt, scary sea creature feedings and bone tingling cryogenic demonstrations. Stop by the Exploration Center for some treats, participate in bio-luminescent crafts, and learn about marine life that lurks in the ocean. Enter the Marine Research Library for some creepy creations and spooky stories.

At the Craft Corner, kids of all ages can participate in such activities as kookie cookie decorating. There will also be a costume contest for a chance to win spook-tacular prizes and the stage show "Evilution" returns with new dances and comedy performances.

"Deep Fear", a new haunted walk-through attraction, will be introduced and the Aquarium's resident cannibal, Red Bone. In addition, the "Voodoo Village" has been expanded and will have games of chance and fortune readings. The all-new "Sea Scare Glow Party Zone" will have close-up magic, a hula hoop contest and dancing.

Admission is $5 for adults and $1 for children and Senior Citizens; FRIENDS of Cabrillo Marine Aquarium will be admitted for FREE. There will also be giveaways for the first 200 guests.

Cabrillo Marine Aquarium is located at 3720 Stephen White Drive in San Pedro 90731. For more information about the event or costume guidelines call (310) 548-7562 or go to www.cabrillomarineaquarium.org.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2689

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-10-19T11:27:00.000-07:00

SCREAM THROUGH A SCARY STEAMER RIDE

12th Annual Ghost Train at Griffith Park

Griffith Park - Board a miniature train at "Scarewood" Station and travel through devilish displays of spooky spirits, creepy clowns, witches, vampire babies and other frightful fiends. Scream your way past 18-foot tall Halloween pumpkin creatures, an Old Western Ghost Town and more.

The multi-media (lighting, video and audio) experience also includes smoke effects and the popular haunted mine tunnel, as well as animatronics - and maybe even some surprises. New 2010 features are an Appalachian Mountain theme, including: Grandma's Potting Shed, with 24 singing potted plants and a giant man-eating plant finale; Grandpa's Hillbilly Hill, which has an old geezer in a rocking chair on the porch of his cabin being a curmudgeon with a 16-foot tall moonshine still; plus rats, hogs, a talking tree and more.

The 12th annual Halloween Ghost Train attraction at the Los Angeles Live Steamers Railroad Museum (LALSRM) will be offered October 15-17, 22-24 and 28-31, 2010 from 7:00pm to 10:00pm each night. All passengers must be at least 34 inches tall and weigh less than 350 lbs.

There is a suggested donation of $7 per person, riders are encouraged to go early, as lines can be very long and dress warm. The Halloween Ghost Train is the largest annual fundraising event put on by LALSRM, which is a nonprofit organization; proceeds will be used to pay for maintenance and purchase equipment.

The Los Angeles Live Streamers Railroad Museum is located at 5202 Zoo Drive in Griffith Park (adjacent to Travel Town Museum). Information about LALSRM special events and more is available at www.lals.org or by calling (323) 661-8958. Regular weekly public rides led by a 1/8-scale steam, diesel or electric locomotive are given on Sunday from 11:00am to 3:00pm, with a $3 suggested donation.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-10-19T10:57:00.000-07:00

FRIDAY NIGHT FRIGHT FLICKS

At Pershing Square in Downtown L.A.

Downtown Los Angeles - Cinematic chills and Friday night thrills!!! Every week in October 2010 there will be a FREE Friday Night Fright Flick screening at Pershing Square in Downtown Los Angeles.

The Fright Flicks will be presented on a 40 x 20 outdoor screen, complemented with a professional sound system. Movies are FREE with lawn seating in the Pershing Square outdoor amphitheater. Moviegoers are welcome to bring a blanket, lawn chair and picnic (or purchase food on site) and enjoy seeing a classic horror film under the stars at a multi-use entertainment and cultural oasis amid the downtown skyscrapers.

The remaining films to be shown are:

October 22 - House of Usher (1960, based on a short story by Edgar Allan Poe and directed by legendary horror filmmaker Roger Corman) starring Vincent Price as head of a cursed family living in a creepy mansion who welcome an unsuspecting suitor

October 29 - Whatever Happened to Baby Jane? (1962, directed by Robert Aldrich) starring Bette Davis and Joan Crawford as aging actress siblings living as recluses, each having suffered tragedy that ultimately pits them against each other.

Pershing Square is located at 532 South Olive Street in Downtown Los Angeles 90013. Friday Night Fright Flicks are presented by the Department of Recreation and Parks, together with the Downtown Neighborhood Council and The Historic Downtown Los Angeles Business Improvement District.

IMPORTANT THINGS TO REMEMBER:

- Guests are asked to refrain from loud conversation or cell phone use during the films

-Pershing Square is a City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks facility and it is city policy that drinking of alcoholic beverages or smoking of any kind is prohibited. Guests found in violation of these rules will be asked to leave the park.

-Convenient underground parking is available at Pershing Square

- Pets are welcome, if they are well-behaved and kept on a leash

-Films will be canceled in the event of inclement weather. Film status can be confirmed after 5pm the day of by calling (213) 847-4970, e-mailing pershing.square@lacity.org or visiting the website at www.laparks.org/pershingsquare.

We look forward to seeing you at the movies! And remember POPCORN is on the "SQUARE"!!!

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-10-18T15:59:00.000-07:00

AN OUTDOOR WORKOUT SPACE

Outdoor Fitness Equipment at Studio City Rec Center

Studio City - The City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks, along with Councilmember Paul Krekorian (CD 2), Park Advisory Members and local residents, dedicated new Outdoor Fitness Equipment at Studio City Recreation Center on Saturday, October 9, 2010.

The multi-station outdoor fitness equipment includes apparatuses to develop the lower, upper and core body areas, and improving cardiovascular health. The fitness equipment is easy-to-use and is designed to be durable, vandal resistant and used in various configurations. The equipment uses the body's mass for resistance instead of a weighted system, which allows the equipment to be used by people of all ages and stages of physical fitness, with no concern of injury.

The new fitness equipment was purchased from Greenfield Sport Parks, Inc. of Santa Ana and installed by Department of Recreation and Parks Citywide Construction Forces. The $65,000 addition was funded by developer fees.

Studio City Recreation Center is located at 12621 Rye Street in Studio City 91604. For more information on this location, visit our website at http://www.laparks.org/ or call (213) 202-2700.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-10-12T15:06:00.000-07:00

ENDLESS OPPORTUNITIES FOR PLAY

Dedication of a Universally Accessible Playground in West Hills

West Hills - The Department of Recreation and Parks (RAP) proudly dedicated a Universally Accessible Playground (UAP) at Shadow Ranch Recreation Center on Thursday, October 7, 2010. The new UAP can be used by children of all abilities and will provide endless opportunities for ALL children to play together.

Shadow Ranch's Accessible Playground was made possible through the Department's partnership with the non-profit organization Shane's Inspiration. RAP has developed a strong and effective partnership with Shane's beginning in 1998 with the development of the City's and non-profit's first Universally Accessible Playground, Shane's Inspiration in Griffith Park. 12 years later, the Department's 16th UAP has opened at Shadow Ranch Recreation Center.

The 10,800-square-foot Accessible Playground features swing sets, slides, resilient rubberized surfacing and shade structures. The play area is completely wheel-chair accessible and boasts interactive sensory elements. The $673,000 project was funded by developer fees.

Together with Shane's Inspiration, the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks has successfully revolutionized the way playgrounds are designed and utilized. RAP is committed to building even more Universally Accessible Playgrounds throughout the City of Los Angeles. The Department currently has 6 additional UAPs opening over the next year.

Shadow Ranch Recreation Center is located at 22633 Vanowen Street in West Hills 91307. For more information on this location or the Department, visit our website at http://www.laparks.org/ or call (213) 202-2700.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-09-28T15:01:00.000-07:00

RAP COOLING CENTERS

All Recreation Centers and Senior Citizen Centers will be serving as cooling sites

Los Angeles - With record temperatures bringing on the extreme HEAT, the Department of Recreation and Parks has some cool solutions for you! All Recreation Centers and Senior Citizen Centers are being utilized as cooling centers. So, if you're in need of a cool spot to chill out at, stop by your nearest Recreation Center or Senior Center.

All RAP sites will be open with regular hours, typically ranging from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (depending on locations), and are open to the public. Additionally, selected Recreation Centers and Senior Centers located in the Valley will have extended hours from 10:00 am until 9:00 pm, beginning Saturday, September 25 through Wednesday, September 29.

Those centers are:

- North Hollywood Senior Citizen Center, 11430 Chandler Blvd, North Hollywood

-Sepulveda Rec Center/Mid-Valley Senior Citizen Center, 8801 Kester Ave., Panorama City

-Sunland Park Senior Citizen Center, 8640 Fenwick Street, Sunland

-Sylmar Recreation Center, 13109 Borden Avenue, Sylmar

-Van Nuys/Sherman Oaks Senior Citizen Center, 5040 Van Nuys Blvd, Sherman Oaks

-Wilkinson Senior Citizen Center, 8956 Vanalden Avenue, Northridge

Some helpful hints to beat the heat!

-Turn off lights when not in use

-Adjust thermostat to 78 degrees to reduce energy usage

-Limit the use of appliances during peak hours of the day

-Try to avoid cooking during peak hours of the day since it will add to the heat inside the home

-Ventilate your home at night by opening windows and doors to clear out the heat and allow cooler air to circulate

During periods of excessive heat there is an increased risk of heat exhaustion,

heat cramps and sunstroke.

Here's what you can do when the weather gets extremely hot:

-Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun

-Stay on the lowest floor our of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available

-Consider spending the warmest part of the day in public buildings such as libraries, schools, movie theaters, shopping malls and other community facilities

-Eat well balanced, light and regular meals. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed by a physician

-Drink plenty of water

-Limit intake of alcoholic beverages

-Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible

-Protect face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat

-Check on family, seniors, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone.

-Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles

-Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat and take frequent breaks

For more information or to locate a cooling center near you, call (213) 202-2700. City Libraries are also serving as cooling centers for locations call (213) 228-7000. Be safe and stay COOL, Los Angeles!

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-09-27T14:32:00.000-07:00

CELEBRATING THE NEW

ROBERT L. BURNS PARK

Dedication of improvements and plaque unveiling

Los Angeles - The Department of Recreation and Parks celebrated the completion of the improvement project and unveiling of a memorial bronze plaque at Robert L. Burns Park on September 23, 2010.

Park upgrades included new playground equipment, water fountains that comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, decomposed granite pathways, fencing, a new water system and restrooms. The Department of Water and Power funded a portion of the project which replaced the entire water system with a smart irrigation system.

The $270,000 project was funded by developer fees. RAP Planning and Construction designed the improvements and performed the work. In addition, the Greater Wilshire Neighborhood Council provided benches and trees, and the Windsor Square - Hancock Park Historical Society painted the exterior fence and paid for and will maintain the plaque, which will serve as a monument to Robert L. Burns.

Robert L. Burns (1876-1956) served as City Council President and representative of the Fourth District from 1931 to 1945. He was also President of the Board of Recreation and Park Commissioners. Burns was known for championing the City he loved and for his strong leadership during war time and economic crisis. The park was named for him in 1959 in honor of his 30 years of public service.

Robert L. Burns Park is located in the Hancock Park area at 4900 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles 90004. For more information on this location please call (213) 202-2700 or visit the Department website at http://www.laparks.org/.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-09-23T10:06:00.000-07:00

CHARMETTE BONPUA SAFE SPOT SKATE SPOT

Dedication at Rancho Cienega Sports Complex

Los Angeles - The City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks has another Safe Spot Skate Spot thanks to our generous partner, professional skateboarder, Rob Dyrdek. Rancho Cienega Sports Complex's skate spot is the Department's fourth collaboration with The Rob Dyrdek Foundation and is the second Safe Spot Skate Spot in Council District 10.

The new 15,000-square-foot skate plaza has been named in memory of Charmette Bonpua, Councilmember Herb Wesson's late Chief of Staff who passed away in February. Bonpua was a dedicated City employee, community advocate and former Chief Deputy to Councilman Wesson. The skate spot stands as a testament to Charmette's commitment to improving recreational opportunities for Los Angeles residents.

The $300,000 project all started with a $50,000 donation from The Rob Dyrdek Foundation for the design and construction of the new skate plaza. The Department of Recreation and Parks and Councilman Wesson worked together to secure an additional $250,000 in funds to complete the construction and landscaping improvements for the new skate spot.

The Charmette Bonpua Safa Spot Skate Spot incorporates street skate style themes and features stairs, rails and ledges. The new skate spot will provide a much needed legal and safe skate facility for local and visiting skateboarders. "Our kids love skateboarding. Unfortunately, there are so few places in our community where they can safely skate," noted Councilman Wesson. "This new state-of-the-art facility is going to make a tremendous difference for our kids."

Rancho Cienega's Charmette Bonpua Safe Spot Skate Spot is located at 5001 Rodeo Road, Los Angeles 90016. For more information on this location or the Department visit our website at http://www.laparks.org/ or call (213) 202-2700. You can also visit our Skate LA FaceBook Page.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-09-02T15:14:00.000-07:00

A NATURAL SETTING IN THE SUBURBS

Dedication of Bandini Canyon Trail Park in San Pedro

San Pedro - The Department of Recreation and Parks dedicated Bandini Canyon Trail Park in San Pedro on August 19, 2010. Lying between two rows of residences and an elementary school, the new park is truly a natural setting in the suburbs.

The 4.9-acre parkland features a pedestrian nature trail, children's playground with resilient surfacing, native landscaping, benches and interpretive signage. The project also included security lighting, new irrigation, perimeter fencing and gates. The natural canyon setting achieves the community vision of an open space sanctuary, a family gathering place and restored habitat.

The $2.3 million project was designed by RRM Design Group of San Luis Obispo and built by Bitech Construction Company, Inc. Funding was provided by the federal Community Development Block Grant program, Proposition 40 and developer fees. The Architectural Division in the Bureau of Engineering of the Department of Public Works co-managed the project with the Los Angeles Neighborhood Initiative (LANI).

The improvement project was realized thanks to a partnership between the Department of Recreation and Parks and LANI, a non-profit organization dedicated to catalytic neighborhood revitalization through public improvement projects and community-driven planning for the past 16 years. The participation of area residents was key to the success of the project.

Bandini Canyon Trail Park is located at North Marshall Court, between Sepulveda Street and Oliver Street, in San Pedro 90731. For more information on this location call (213) 202-2700 or visit the Department website at http://www.laparks.org/.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-08-31T16:24:00.000-07:00

A COMMUNITY EFFORT

Elysian Park-Riverside Park Groundbreaking Ceremony

Los Angeles - The City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks held a groundbreaking ceremony for the Elysian Park-Riverside Outdoor Improvement Park Project -Phase 1 on August 17, 2010 with Councilman Garcetti, Chief Deputy City Engineer Deborah Weintraub and community members. The celebration marked the start of construction on the first 5-acres of an undeveloped 18-acre site.

The City purchased the 18-acres of property in 1999 and held community outreach meetings to decide the park's design. The Citizens Committee to Save Elysian Park played a huge role in the process. The site contains two relatively flat areas separated by a slope between the lower and mid-level of the property, which will be used for the active recreation development of the park. Due to limited funding the park will be developed in phases.

When complete Phase 1 will feature two multipurpose game courts, passive recreation lawn areas, picnic tables, a children's playground, trails, an outdoor classroom and a new permeable parking lot.

The $900,000 project, which is being funded by Proposition 40, is expected to be complete in the Spring of 2011. For more information on this project call (213) 202-2700 or visit the Department website at http://www.laparks.org/.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrea Esptein: (213) 202-2690

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-08-24T12:09:00.000-07:00

JUST IN TIME FOR THE HEAT!

Opening Ceremony for Downey Pool

Los Angeles - Just in time for the summer heat, the Department of Recreation and Parks dedicated and opened Downey Pool on Thursday, August 12, 2010. Originally closed in 2006, the pool has returned new, improved and ready for a splashing good time.

The original pool and pump house were completely demolished and replaced with a new 38-foot by 75-foot swimming/lap pool, a 1,700-square-foot activity pool/splash pad and a 500-square-foot structure that will house new pumps and filter equipment, and chemical rooms. The project also included the installation of landscaping, irrigation, decorative pool decking and perimeter fencing.

The $5.8 million improvement project was funded by bonds issued by the City through the Municipal Improvement Corporation of Los Angeles, Proposition K and developer fees. FSY Architects, Inc. designed the aquatic facility, which Horizon Construction of Anaheim built. The Architectural Division in the Bureau of Engineering of the City's Department of Public Works managed the project through the Municipal Facilities Program.

Downey Pool is an outdoor seasonal location (which means it is only open during the summer months) and offers a variety of aquatic programming (e.g. youth and adult swim lessons, inner-tube water polo, a junior lifeguard program, etc.). Downey Pool is located at 1775 North Spring Street in Los Angeles 90031. For more information on this location call the Aquatics Division at (323) 906-7953 or visit our website at http://www.laparks.org/.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-08-24T10:25:00.000-07:00

WATER/HABITAT CONSERVATION THEMED PARK

Dedication of Bellaire Avenue Pocket Park

North Hollywood - Once a vacant lot, the corner at Bellaire Avenue and Strathern Street in North Hollywood has been transformed into a charming new 0.14 acre neighborhood park. The Department of Recreation and Parks celebrated the park's completion with a dedication ceremony on Thursday, July 29, 2010.

Bellaire Avenue Park boasts a 2-5 year old play area with resilient rubberized surfacing, an outdoor classroom with wood stump seating, a demonstration garden and solar lighting. The Department's Planning Division designed the new pocket park to contain water conservation objectives. Water conservation has become an important issue around the world and the implementation of water saving measures are greatly needed everywhere. The Department of Recreation and Parks is proud to say that Bellaire Park is part of that effort by the implementation of the following features to the new park.

Bellaire Park is landscaped with California native and drought tolerant plants. Native/drought tolerant plants are adapted to the wet winters and dry summers, allowing less use of water, fertilizer and pesticides. The beautiful Walnut Tree was preserved and was worked into the park's design. A Smart Irrigation System was installed and will save 325,000 gallons of water annually. All of these special elements help conserve water and the natural habitat, while providing residents with local parkland. The water and habitat conservation themed park was built by the Department of Recreation and Parks construction forces, with funding from Propositions K and 40.

Bellaire Avenue Park is located at 7960 Bellaire Avenue in North Hollywood 91605. For more information on this location please call (213) 202-2700 or visit our website at http://www.laparks.org/.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-08-23T12:17:00.000-07:00

GROOMING THE NEXT GREAT CHAMP

Grand Opening of Lincoln Heights Youth Center Complex

Los Angeles - A historic church built in 1930 has been restored and transformed into the Lincoln Heights Youth Center Complex. The Department of Recreation and Parks held a grand opening ceremony for the new 15,000-square-foot complex on Monday, July 26, 2010.

The $7.2 million project included the renovation of the original chapel and school building, installation of an elevator and improvements to make the center handicap accessible. The two-story chapel now has a boxing ring and male and female weight rooms. The new center also boasts a youth center, full-sized outdoor hockey rink (complete with court markings and lights for night games) and junior arts center (which will be run by the Department of Cultural Affairs).

The Architectural Division of the Bureau of Engineering in the Department of Public Works designed the renovations, which were built by the Construction Division of the Department of General Services. The project was managed through the Bureau of Engineering's Recreational and Cultural Facilities Program. Funding for the project, including purchase of the property, came entirely from Proposition K.

For the first time, Recreation and Parks and Cultural Affairs will work side-by-side and provide different programs at one location. This partnership will bring more resources into the heart of the surrounding neighborhood, providing positive alternatives for local youth and adults.

The Lincoln Heights Youth Center Complex will provide a youth and women's kick boxing class, youth boxing program and much more. The new unique center will serve as a replacement location for the former Los Angeles Youth Athletic Club (LAYAC) that operated similar fitness programs out of the fifth floor of the old Lincoln Heights jail on Lacey Street for over four decades. The City closed the LAYAC on April 30 due to safety issues.

Innovation and creativity were at the heart of both locations. In the past, an old jail served as training grounds for future boxers and now a former church will be grooming the next great champ. The new Lincoln Heights Youth Center Complex is located at 2911 Altura Street in Los Angeles 90031. For more information on this location call the complex directly at (323) 266-1401.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-08-23T11:04:00.000-07:00

A HAVEN FOR STREET SKATERS

Grand Opening of Stoner RC Skate Plaza

West Los Angeles - The Department of Recreation and Parks proudly dedicated yet another unique location for skateboarders at Stoner Recreation Center on Thursday, July 22, 2010. The new state-of-the-art skate plaza has quickly become a haven for local and visiting skateboarders.

The new 20,000-square-foot plaza features stairs, ledges and benches, making it an ideal location for street skaters. The Stoner Skate Plaza was built by California Skateparks, Inc. and was designed with help from local skateboarder Alec Beck (West LA Community of Skateboarders). Quimby Funds financed the $1 million project.

The Skate Plaza project was a response to the community's desire and need for a local skate facility after a famous spot at the West L.A. courthouse was closed to skaters. In fact, part of the new plaza was designed to mirror an area of the courthouse. Many of the plaza's street elements are features duplicated from previous skate spots that are no longer there or accessible, making Stoner Skate Plaza extremely special to local skaters.

Stoner Recreation Center is located at 1835 Stoner Avenue in West Los Angeles 90025. Stoner Skate Plaza is open from 9 am to dusk everyday. For more information on this location call (213) 202-2700 or visit the Department's FaceBook Fan Page "Skate in LA".

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-07-27T12:28:00.000-07:00

HERE'S LOOKING AT YOU, WESTCHESTER!

Dedication of $2.5 million in improvements to pool and recreation center

Los Angeles - On June 18, 1961, the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks celebrated the Grand Opening of Westchester Swimming Pool and Bathhouse. The pool quickly became a popular destination for summer swimming.

Almost 50 years later, Westchester Pool is still a popular summer location and the Department is helping it to stay that way by keeping the facility in top shape. On Monday, June 26, 2010, the Department re-opened Westchester Pool with major improvements.

The renovation project included a new deck, filtration system, and heater, changing room, sinks and showers and paint throughout. The front office counter was also refurbished, immediate pool surroundings were cleaned up and redecorated, the plumbing and electrical systems were renovated, landscaping was enhanced and more.

The Department also celebrated the completion of improvements to the adjacent recreation center. These upgrades included waterproofing of masonry walls around the perimeter of the gymnasium, installation of resilient surfacing at the existing play area and re-striping and disabled access improvements in the parking lot.

All design and construction work was performed by the Department's Planning and Construction Division. Funding for all components came from developer fees.

Westchester Pool is located at 9100 Lincoln Blvd in Los Angeles 90045 and Westchester Recreation Center address is 7000 West Manchester Avenue. For more information about this location or the Department of Recreation and Parks visit our website at http://www.laparks.org/ or call (213) 202-2700.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-07-19T12:09:00.000-07:00

THE SCOOP ON SUMMER SWIMMING
All the details on Summer Swimming at L.A. pools

Los Angeles - With the temperatures rising, more and more people are looking for easy and affordable ways to stay COOL. The City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks has a solution to your HOT dilemma, visit one of our City pools!!

The Department's Aquatics Division operates over 50 swimming pools, 16 year-round and 35 seasonal locations. Seasonal locations are open from mid-June to late-August. These outdoor facilities offer morning and afternoon public swim sessions and year-round pools offer afternoon and evening swim sessions. The seasonal pools are generally open from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm on weekdays and 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm on weekends. Hours of operation vary per facility for year-round locations.

In addition, three seasonal pools are offering evening swimming this summer thanks to the Summer Night Lights program. Jackie Tatum/Harvard Aquatic Facility will be open until 8:00 pm Wednesdays through Saturdays. Glassell Pool will be open from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm Thursday and Friday. Hubert Humphrey will be open for evening swim sessions until 8:00 pm Wednesday through Saturday.

City pools can be found throughout Los Angeles, from Peck Park Pool in San Pedro to Fernangeles Pool in Sun Valley to Pecan Pool in East Los Angeles to Jackie Tatum/Harvard Aquatic Facility in South Los Angeles. L.A. pools are open to all residents and are an inexpensive way to stay cool on a hot summer day.

Swimming is FREE for children ages 17 or younger, seniors 65 or older and the disabled. There is a $2.50 fee for adults (ages 18-64) but those who have a City Library Card get a reduced rate of $2. Children ages 3-6 must be potty-trained and accompanied by an adult at ALL times. Children under 3 must wear a swim diaper.

Los Angeles City pools offer a wide variety of aquatic activities and programs. Lap, recreational and adaptive swimming, water exercise and private, semi-private and/or group swim lessons are all available. Junior Lifeguard Programs and Team Sports, such as Water Polo and Synchronized Swimming are also available through the Department's Aquatics Division.

Some pools also have special features that are perfect for young swimmers. Eight Department pools have water slides; Hansen Dam, Hollywood, Hubert Humphrey, Jackie Tatum/Harvard, Northridge, Sepulveda, Stoner and Sun Valley. Splash Pads are also available at seven pools and/or parks; Jackie Tatum/Harvard, Juntos Park, North Hollywood, Panorama, Queen Anne, Saint Andrews and Stoner Park. Splash Pads are ideal for small children, who have not yet mastered the art of swimming. With zero depth standing water and rubber surfacing there is practically no risk of drowning.

Some rules to remember when visiting a City pool:
1. Entrance will be denied to any children under 7-years-old, unless accompanied by an adult on a one-to-one ratio.
2. Absolutely NO pets are allowed inside City pools.
3. The following items are not allowed in the pool or deck area:
Street clothes and shoes, floating apparatus, glass objects or containers of any kind, sports or swim equipment and radios or I-Pods.
4. Smoking, eating or drinking is not allowed in the pool or dressing area.
5. All swimmers must wear proper swim attire. Men must wear swim trunks with a liner and a drawstring. Ladies must wear a bathing suit (one-piece or two-piece).
6. The following attire is NOT permitted in the pool:
cut-off, biker basketball or jean shorts, white t-shirts or shirts of any kind and bodysuits or leotards
***Failure to follow rules and guidelines will result in a non-admittance or expulsion from the pool grounds.***

For more information or to find a City pool close to you, please call the Aquatics Division at (323) 906-7953 or visit the Department website at www.laparks.org/dos/aquatic/aquatic.htm.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690
Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-07-15T16:23:00.000-07:00

PECAN "OFF-THE-GRID" PROJECT

Dedication of a new solar panel system

Los Angeles - For the first time ever, a City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks facility will go completely off the City's electrical grid by using solar energy to provide clean, renewable electrical power. The Department dedicated and officially pulled the plug on Pecan's "Off-the-Grid" Project on Wednesday, July 14, 2010, further demonstrating the City's commitment to reducing the use of fossil fuels.

The new solar panels were installed over the renovated outdoor basketball/volleyball pavilion and will generate enough energy to power 22 homes, creating more energy then the park actually needs. The system is estimated to generate 46,382 kilowatt hours (KWh) of electricity per year. Only a small amount of the electricity produced will "feed" the park's child care center, office and restroom buildings, while the majority will be transmitted to the utility.

The Off-the-Grid Project also includes improvements to the outdoor basketball/volleyball pavilion (new concrete floor, backboards, rims and nets, refurbishing and repainting of the roof and installing screens to prevent birds from entering the interior of the structure's frame) and the new playground and picnic area.

Harry Surmenian, a recently retired Recreation and Parks' employee, was honored at the celebration for leading the Department's solar initiative. The Department of Recreation and Parks also was honored with a $113,532.00 rebate check from the Department of Water and Power's Solar Program for the Pecan project.

Pecan Recreation Center is located at 145 South Pecan Street in Los Angeles 90033. For more information on this project or the Department of Recreation and Parks visit our website at www.laparks.org or call (213) 202-2700.

2010-07-15T14:57:00.000-07:00

GRAB YOUR SWIM SUITS & SUNSCREEN!

SUMMER SWIMMING & OPERATION SPLASH ARE BACK!

Kick-off celebration at the historic Griffith Park Pool

Los Angeles - The heat is back for the summer months and so are 33 seasonal pools run by the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks. The 2010 Summer Swim Season began with a kick-off celebration at the historic Griffith Park Pool on Friday, June 25.

The Department's 33 seasonal pool locations officially opened on Saturday, June 26 and will remain open through the end of August. Seasonal pools offer morning and afternoon public swim sessions. Additionally, 16 year-round pools began their summer schedule and offer afternoon and evening swim sessions to the general public.

Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Councilmember Tom LaBonge, The Department of Recreation and Parks, Kaiser Permanente and The LA84 Foundation were all on-hand to help cut the red ribbon and make a splash to start the Summer Swim Season and Operation Splash.

The Department of Recreation and Parks is partnering for the fifth straight year with Kaiser Permanente for Operation Splash. For the 2010 summer, the Department received a $250,000 grant from Kaiser Permanente Southern California that will fund free swim lessons for 6,000 low-income youth and adults at 35 pools across the City. The program will also support free junior lifeguard training for 780 low-income youth at 49 City pools and extend the summer swim season for one week at seven locations serving about 10,000 pool patrons.

The LA84 Foundation is also joining the efforts to make youngsters water safe and provide them with the opportunity to participate in water polo, synchronized swimming and diving. Over the last 25 years the LA84 Foundation has consistently assisted the City's efforts to provide Los Angeles youth with access to quality sports programs.

The City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks' Aquatic Division offers a variety of water activities, including recreational swimming, water awareness, adaptive swimming, Team Sports, Junior Lifeguard program and water exercise. For the 12th consecutive year, children age 17 or younger, seniors 65 or older and the disabled can swim for FREE at all City pools. Children ages 3-6 must be potty-trained and accompanied by an adult at all times; children under 3 must wear a swim diaper. The charge for adults ages 18-64 is $2.50; those with a City library card will pay $2.

For more information call the Department's Aquatic Division at (323) 906-7953 or e-mail at Citywide.Aquatics@lacity.org.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-07-02T12:45:00.000-07:00

FREE SUMMER LUNCH PROGRAM
2010 program will run from June 21 - August 20

Los Angeles - The City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks will serve free lunches and snacks during summer 2010 to youth at more than 100 locations throughout the City. The program, which will begin June 21 and end August 20, is for children age 18 or younger. Serving times will vary. For more information, call (213) 202-2700 or 311, or go to www.laparks.org/dos/lunchprogram/lunch.htm.

The program is funded by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) through its Summer Food Service Program. The goal of the program is to ensure children receive at least one nutritious and balanced meal per day when school is not in session.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690
Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-07-02T11:09:00.004-07:00

RED, WHITE, BLUE AND FIREWORKS TOO!!!
Recreation & Park's 4th of July Celebrations

Los Angeles - Have you made your 4th of July plans yet? Need some ideas? Here's a list of celebrations taking place at facilities operated by the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks:

Hansen Dam Recreation Area in Lakeview Terrace is hosting their 16th annual 4th of July Spectacular on Saturday, July 3 from 11:00am to 6:00pm and Sunday July, 4 from 3:00pm to 10:00pm. The two-day event will have live music and other entertainment, rides, games, food, prizes and is FREE. The fun-filled festivities will culminate with one of the most spectacular fireworks show in the area called "Skies Over America." "Skies Over America" will be dedicated to all the hard working men and women across the country whom regardless of their cultural backgrounds, work together to keep America moving. This unique show will be orchestrated to patriotic music. Hansen Dam is located at 11770 Foothill Blvd., Lake View Terrace 91342. For more information visit the event website at http://www.hansen4th.com/home/index.php. Don't forget your swimsuits! Hansen Dam's 1.5-acre swim lake will be open from 10:00am-7:00pm.

For the 59th year, Cabrillo Beach will host their FREE 4th of July celebration and fireworks show on Sunday, July 4 starting at 12:00pm and ending with a 20-minute pyrotechnic fireworks extravaganza at 9:00pm. Local San Pedro Bands and the Golden State Pops Orchestra will be playing a variety of Americana music. Tours of a Naval Vessel, Armed Forces and U.S. Coast Guard demonstrations and displays by the Los Angeles City Fire Department's firefighting boat will also be part of the celebration. For more information call (310) 548-7401 or visit http://cabrillobeachbathhouse.org/. Cabrillo Beach's address is 3720 Stephen White Drive, San Pedro 90731. Remember parking at the Beach is limited, a FREE shuttle service from 22nd and Miner Street will be available for visitors.

The 4th annual Boyle Heights Concert & Fireworks Show will be on Friday, July 2 from 4:00pm to 9:00pm at Hollenbeck Park. The concert begins at 4:00pm and the fireworks will light up the skies at 8:30pm. Hollenbeck Park is located at 415 South Saint Louis Street, Los Angeles 90033. For more information call (323) 261-0113.

El Sereno Recreation Center will be celebrating the 4th on Saturday, July 3 from 4:00pm to 9:00pm. The 3rd annual El Sereno Concert & Fireworks Show & Independence Parade will provide guests with a free, safe and family-oriented event. The parade will start at 2:00pm on the corner of Huntington Drive and Van Horne and will end at El Sereno Park where the concert will kick-off at 4:00pm. The fireworks will start at 8:30pm. For more information call (323) 225-3517. El Sereno Recreation Center is located at 4721 Klamath Place, Los Angeles 90032.

The 4th of July Concert and Fireworks Show at Eagle Rock Recreation Center will be on Sunday, July 4 from 4:00pm to 9:00pm. The concert begins at 4:00pm with fireworks at 8:30pm. The address is 1100 Eagle Vista Drive, Los Angeles 90041. For more information call (323) 257-6948.

Warner Park in Woodland Hills will be the site of Councilmember Dennis P. Zine's July 4th Extravaganza. The festival will be on Sunday, July 4 from 6:00pm to 9:30pm. Festivities include live music from Mrs. Robinson (a professional tribute band), food vendors, play zone and a 20-minute fireworks show at 9:05pm. For more information (818) 704-1358. Admission is FREE but parking is $15 in any of the Warner Center structures. Warner Park is located at 5800 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Woodland Hills 91367.

The City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks would like to wish everyone a HAPPY and SAFE Fourth of July!!!

2010-07-02T11:09:00.001-07:00

RAP'S FOURTH SPOT FOR FOUR-WHEELED BOARDS

Groundbreaking Ceremony at Rancho Cienega Sports Complex

Los Angeles - The City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks in partnership with professional skateboarder Rob Dyrdek and Councilmember Herb J. Wesson broke ground for the Charmette Bonpua Safe Spot Skate Spot at Rancho Cienega Sports Complex on Thursday, June 17, 2010.

The $300,000 state-of-the-art skate plaza will provide the community with a modern street skating venue. The 15,000-square-foot skate park, which will feature steps and benches in a plaza setting, will be named in memory of Charmette Bonpua, Councilmember Wesson's late Chief of Staff who passed away in February. Bonpua was known for her passion of working with youth and was instrumental in securing the funding for the new skate spot.

The Rob Dyrdek Foundation provided $50,000 to design and assist in construction and Councilmember Wesson and the Department worked together to secure an additional $250,000 to complete the construction and landscaping improvements for the new skate park. When completed the Charmette Bonpua Safe Spot Skate Spot at Rancho Cienega Sports Complex will be the Department of Recreation and Parks' fourth collaboration with The Rob Dyrdek Skate Plaza Foundation and Council District 10's second Safe Spot Skate Spot (the first was at Lafayette Park).

The new skate plaza is expected to be completed in 5 weeks. Rancho Cienega Sports Complex is located at 5001 Rodeo Road, Los Angeles 90016. For more information on this location or the Department of Recreation and Parks, call (213) 202-2700 or visit our website at http://www.laparks.org/.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-06-24T13:30:00.001-07:00

THE DEVELOPMENT OF A PREMIER OPEN SPACE

Ascot Hills Park Phase II Groundbreaking Ceremony

Los Angeles - Wildflowers, sparrows and a circling hawk joined the Department of Recreation and Parks, Councilmember Jose Huizar, City Engineer Gary Lee Moore and community members to celebrate the start of phase-two of the Ascot Hills Park development project on Monday, June 14, 2010. The historic celebration included a Blessing of the Grounds and Mariachi performance.

Ascot Hills Park has been a difficult but worthy fight. Development plans for the 92-acre parkland were put on hold in December 2008 due to the State funding freeze of Proposition 40. With the funds now available, the Department of Recreation and Parks and the Bureau of Engineering are determined to complete the project by March 2011 (the funding's deadline).

"This is not only a ground breaking but a break through. The Department of Recreation and Parks has decided to step in and do the construction themselves. They have made this park their number one priority," said Councilmember Huizar. "This action allows us to start work immediately."

General Manager Jon Mukri said the Department of Recreation and Parks would make Ascot Hills Park "the premier open space in the Los Angeles Park system" and thanked the Department's Planning and Construction Superintendent Mike Shull for pushing the project through. "Mike figured out a way to make this happen, [he] made this happen. He got contractor's together and he came to me and said 'Jon we gotta get this going, we owe it to the community'."

The $3.3 million project will include the development of the eastern portion of the park, approximately 53-acres of the 92-acre parkland. Improvements will include nature hiking trails, an outdoor amphitheater classroom, ADA paths, full stream restoration, picnic areas, irrigation and additional parking.

When complete, Ascot Hills will be one of the largest parks in the City. The parkland features a 360-view of downtown L.A., the San Gabriel Valley and surrounding mountains will provide local residents and visitors with a beautiful natural parkland in the middle of the City of Angels.

Ascot Hills is located at 4731 Multnomah Street in Los Angeles 90032. For more information on this location or the Department of Recreation and Parks call (213) 202-2700 or visit our website at http://www.laparks.org/.

MEDIA CONTACTS: Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690 Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-06-24T12:25:00.000-07:00

THE REVITALIZATION OF A NEIGHBORHOOD PARK

Dedication of outdoor improvements at De Longpre Park

Los Angeles - The Department of Recreation and Parks with Councilmember Tom LaBonge (Fourth District) and City Engineer Gary Lee Moore celebrated the completion of momentous improvements at De Longpre Park in Hollywood on Thursday, June 10 , 2010.

The $326,000 project included new playground equipment, fencing to enclose the children's play area and lighting, as well as landscaping, replacement of perimeter fencing and improvements to the asphalt walkway. The improvements were designed to highlight the natural beauty of the park while creating a secure area for children and walkers.

The Architectural Division of the Bureau of Engineering in the Department of Public Works designed the improvements, which were built by the Citywide Construction Division from the Department of General Services. Project funding was provided by Proposition K and developer fees.

De Longpre Park is located at 1350 North Cherokee Avenue in Los Angeles 90028. For more information on this location or the Department of Recreation and Parks visit our website at http://www.laparks.org/ or call (213) 202-2700.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

2010-06-03T16:50:00.000-07:00

AN EXTRAORDINARY PLACE TO LEARN

Dedication of the White Point Nature Education Center

Palos Verdes - The City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks and the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy (PVPLC) proudly dedicated the White Point Nature Education Center on Saturday, May 22, 2010. The Center will serve as a resource for students, families and community groups from all over Los Angeles.

The new Education Center is located in the beautifully restored 102-acre White Point Nature Preserve. The Preserve features acres of coastal habitat on a scenic site overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island. The Preserve is owned by the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks and managed by the PVPLC.

White Point Nature Education Center is housed in a re-purposed former military structure surrounded by a native plant demonstration garden. Inside the Center, multi-media exhibits move visitors through a timeline sequentially arranged exhibits and displays that tell the story of White Point's cultural and natural history, spanning the Pleistocene age through the present.

Materials in the Education Center's interior are built out of sustainable products including 100% recycled curbside glass, low carbon concrete counters and natural bamboo cabinets built by certified green building specialist, Tom Reavey.

A special thanks to all of our sponsors and donors who made this project possible. The Alcoa Foundation's generous donation funded the exhibits, Major Family who helped with the demonstration garden, Robert Reid a noted muralist from the Natural History Museum created the mural that accurately depicts White Point during the last ice age, El-Hefni Technical Training Foundation and Pirate Brands.

The Education Center will be open to the public from 10 am to 4 pm on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday. For more information on White Point Nature Education Center call the PVPLC at (310) 541-7613.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689