"marina-del-rey" via James in Google Reader

Maximizing the ocean views in Marina del Rey

2012-02-26T15:00:00Z

Set along 38 feet of sand, this beach house makes the most of its location with floor-to-ceiling glass walls and doors facing the water. There are even ocean views from the glass-enclosed shower and free-standing tub in the third-floor master bedroom suite.

Massive luxury yacht with submarine seen moored off Venice

2012-02-25T07:56:50Z

One of the world's largest yachts, with nearly 49,000 square feet of interior space, has been spotted by news helicopters moored off Venice.

KCBS-TV Channel 2's chopper caught a glimpse of the Serene, reportedly one of the 10 largest yachts in the world at nearly 440 feet long.

It cost $300 million to build, with seven decks, a hangar, two helicopter landing pads, a large seawater swimming pool big enough for a service craft and a submarine, according to Boarding International, a publication covering the industry.

The Italian-built yacht is reportedly owned by Russian vodka tycoon Yuri Scheffler.

Another Russian tycoon-owned yacht grabbed attention along the Southern California coast in August 2010 in Malibu. That boat, however, was just a mere 394 feet long.

ALSO:

Blue Line delays expected during evening rush hour

Probe ordered into crach that injured 7 at 110 Freeway bus stop

Mongols member guilty of killing San Francisco Hells Angels leader

-- From a Times staff writer

TMZ Moving to Marina del Rey?

2012-02-25T06:55:38Z

Goodbye, Hollywood. Hello, Marina del Rey?

The Hollywood Reporter broke the news Thursday that TMZ is close to signing a 10-year lease for 36,000 square feet of office space at 13031 W. Jefferson Blvd. in Marina del Rey. The deal is expected to be official next month and TMZ wouldn’t relocate to their new digs until early 2013.

TMZ’s office is currently smack dab in the middle of West Hollywood at Sunset Blvd. and Crescent Heights.

The Marina del Rey location would put them further out from West Beverly and North La Cienega boulevards — better known as the “thirty-mile zone.”

New Career Opportunities Daily: The best jobs in media.

Marina del Rey Patch Best Burger: The Counter

2012-02-24T20:54:04Z

The Counter has been named the best local burger by Marina del Rey Patch readers in this week's Best of Patch poll.

The build-your-own burgers at The Counter received 30 percent of the vote in our unscientific poll to take the top spot.

One reviewer on Yelp said, "So delicious. The burger is exactly what I went because I'm totally in charge of every part!:

Review The Counter yourself on the Patch Places page.

Check back Monday for next week's poll. Also, if you have any suggestions for future Best of Patch polls, let us know.

A Navy SEAL's Tale of What it Takes

2012-02-24T14:00:00Z

Editor's Note: A version of this article originally published on sister site Imperial Beach Patch. We thought this interview would be of interest to our readers.

With the release of the film Act of Valor, and the recent success of SEAL Team members in killing Osama bin Laden and rescuing hostages from the clutches of Somali pirates, a lot of attention has been focused on our most elite U.S. special forces.

Having grown up in Imperial Beach, just down the beach from where SEALs train at Naval Amphibious Base Coronado, I have observed their Southern California-based ocean training first-hand.

Although I work out or surf with many current or former SEALs, I knew very little about what it takes to be a member of the world’s toughest team.

To get more of an idea of what it takes to become a SEAL and how they train, I checked in with an active-duty SEAL who has worked as a BUD/S (Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL) instructor.

In recognition and respect for the SEAL ethos not to seek recognition, he requested he remain anonymous.

Patch: Why did you become a SEAL?

SEAL: I joined for the excitement and the challenge. I liked the idea of getting paid to work out. I didn’t expect to stay in as long as I have. I have always said that I will get out when I quit having fun or didn’t enjoy the work anymore.

The caliber of men that you are associated with is a big draw as well, obviously due to the selection process to become a SEAL. The work is always challenging and the opportunity to lead SEALs is very rewarding. I also stay in with the commitment that I will stay in as long as I can effectively contribute to the war on terror with the hope that our kids won’t have to deal with it.

Patch: With the Department of Defense looking to increase the presence and numbers of special forces, the Navy will want more SEALs. What type of recruit makes an outstanding SEAL candidate?

SEAL: In the last decade, there has been a great deal of research to determine what kind of background successful SEAL graduates have that would make them more likely to graduate so as to target those types of BUD/S candidates.

Studies have shown that those individuals that have participated in high school sports such as wrestling, swimming, water polo and track and field have a higher probability to make it through BUD/S training. Essentially, any type of endurance athlete has a greater probability to make it to graduation. Much of what we do requires a strong athletic ability with strong cardiovascular system.

Patch: What are the physical requirements to become a SEAL?

SEAL: The Physical Screening Test (PST) is only a test to ensure you are fit enough to start physical training as part of the SEAL training process. The PST is strictly administered with no waiver allowed and no deviation from the format. The test is strictly enforced—no exceptions.

Patch: How do SEAL instructors know how to push recruits to the edge without going over the edge?

SEAL: Having been through the exact same training themselves, as well as being recent combat veterans, the instructors have a keen sense of knowing the limits that the human body can take and regulate accordingly. There are always medical personnel on hand during all training evolutions to keep a close medical eye on the condition of students during training, especially during Hell Week. They pick up on initial signs of potential injury and treat as appropriate to avoid aggravating further.

Patch: Is training more advanced now for SEALs than it was a decade ago? It seems as though SEALs must have to master fairly advanced and high-tech equipment.

SEAL: Training is definitely more advanced now than a decade ago. This is largely because of the advanced technological equipment available and used by SEALs today, giving them the tactical advantage. To adapt to the complex nature of our missions today, tactics, techniques and procedures have also advanced to be able to more effectively find and fix our enemies that hide among the population.

Patch: With the release of Act of Valor and the recent success of SEALs in killing Osama bin Laden and hostage rescues off of Africa, do you think SEALs run the risk of being viewed as modern day superheroes that can do anything? Could that help set the SEALs up for future failures if they somehow don’t continue to do the impossible?

SEAL: I don’t think the release of Act of Valor, taking out Bin Laden, or counter-piracy successes off Somalia will put SEALs at risk of being viewed as something they are not. If you talk to any SEAL today, you will find that they don’t view themselves that way. Most look at what they do as "just a job" that they enjoy because of the challenging work, patriotism, fighting terrorism to preserve democracy and our way of life, and the camaraderie from tightly knit teams.

Act of Valor was in the works before the bin Laden raid or the piracy hostage rescue. It was made with the permission and oversight of Naval Special Warfare Command and the Navy to be a recruiting tool as we continue to grow our force.

It was seen as an opportunity to portray SEALs accurately, unlike previous Hollywood productions, using real SEALs without divulging close held tactics, techniques and procedures as well as how their personal lives are affected by their chosen profession.

While we have been fortunate to enjoy many highly visible successes, there have been some missions in the last decade that were not so successful, where many SEALs have given the ultimate sacrifice. In the end, SEALs don’t look for the visibility or accolades for their work. In my humble opinion, the visibility comes from the press and their insatiable desire for sensational headlines and those seeking political gain.

Patch: The most infamous part of SEAL training is "Hell Week." Can you describe what that involves and what the purpose is of this week that I have heard described as "endless days of pain, cold, and misery?"

SEAL: The first three weeks of training prepares the students for Hell Week (fourth week) where they go through five and a half days of continuous training with only a maximum of four hours sleep. This is designed to test one’s physical and mental motivation. This week proves to those who make it that the human body can do 10 times the amount of work the average man thinks possible. During this week the students learn the value of cool headedness, perseverance, and above all, teamwork.

Patch: What does the basic SEAL training involve in terms of physical activity and combat preparation?

SEAL: The comprehensive SEAL training process prepares students for the extreme physical and mental challenges of SEAL missions. The standards of qualification require the kind of mental and physical fortitude that few possess. For those making the cut, immense challenges and constant training are a way of life.

The first phase of BUD/S assesses SEAL candidates in physical conditioning, water competency, teamwork and mental tenacity. Physical conditioning utilizes running, swimming and calisthenics and grows harder and harder as the weeks progress. Students participate in weekly four mile timed runs in boots and timed obstacle courses, swim distances up to two miles wearing fins in the ocean and learn small boat seamanship. The second phase of training is the diving phase of BUD/S that trains, develops and qualifies SEAL candidates as competent basic combat swimmers. Physical conditioning continues and becomes even more intensive.

Students learn two types of SCUBA: open circuit (compressed air) and closed circuit (100 percent Oxygen) including basic dive medicine and medical skills training.

Emphasis is placed on long-distance underwater dives with the goal of training students to become basic combat divers, using swimming and diving techniques as a means of transportation from their launch point to their combat objective. This is what separates SEALs from all other Special Operations forces.

The third phase of training is Land Warfare that trains, develops and qualifies SEAL candidates in basic weapons, demolition and small-unit tactics. Physical training continues and becomes even more strenuous as the run distance increases and the minimum passing times are lowered for the runs, swims and obstacle course. This third phase concentrates on teaching land navigation, small-unit tactics, patrolling techniques, rappelling, marksmanship and military explosives. The final three and a half weeks are spent on San Clemente Island, where students apply all the techniques they have acquired during training.

Patch: SEALs spend a considerable amount of time in the ocean. Is there specific ocean related training that occurs in terms of how to navigate large surf, rip currents, and/or storm conditions, or is it "sink or swim?"

SEAL: First phase of training involves an extensive amount of surf passage training; both individually as a swimmer and with Inflatable Boat Small (IBS) rubber boats, manned with seven students with paddles. Although there is initial classroom training in navigating surf, dealing with rip currents and storm conditions, the true learning/training to navigating the surf is through practical experience in the ocean.

During hydrographic reconnaissance training in the first phase, the students learn about tides, currents and wave shape and duration to be able to include that in their hydro reports that go to the Amphibious Ready Group for potential beach landings.

Patch: It appears that quite a few SEALs are surfers. Are surfers attracted to the SEALs or do you think that SEALs become surfers after spending so much time in the ocean?

SEAL: It has been my experience that more SEALs become surfers after they become a SEAL, most likely because of their increased familiarity with and exposure to the ocean. Many SEALs come from the Midwest and haven’t had that much exposure to the ocean. Being based in coastal communities also lends to SEALs wanting to surf.

Patch: A SEAL’s training is never complete, according to the SEAL ethos. How do you motivate team members to continue performing at the highest level over the course of their career?

SEAL: Many SEALs come and go in the teams. It is my experience that SEALs that choose to make a career in the Navy continue to be motivated because the teams attract men that fall into a "warrior class" type of individual.

They live a lifestyle of fitness. By the time they start to get operational burnout because of a high op tempo, they take a shore duty job that will give them a break to recharge. Additionally, the more senior a SEAL gets, the more leadership positions they gravitate to where their experience is used to bring up younger SEALs.

Serge Dedina is the Executive Director of WiLDCOAST and the author of "Wild Sea: Eco-Wars and Surf Stories from the Coast of the Californias."

Update: Culver City, LA County and LA City Authorities Unable to Find Source of Gas Smell

2012-02-24T00:41:00Z

Following the Culver City Fire Department's response to a gas smell in the Fox Hills area, reports started coming in from as far away as Playa del Rey, with many people calling fire departments and the gas company to report a smell similar to natural gas.

"Since we came back from the Fox Hills area, we notified Los Angeles County and Los Angeles City officials of similar complaints coming from a widespread area, as far as Playa del Rey," Culver City Fire Chief Chris Syverson told Patch in a telephone call at 4 p.m. Thursday.

"I also smelt it as far away as Ladera Heights," Syverson added.

However, despite both Los Angeles City and Los Angeles County also dispatching units to several areas, none of the agencies could find the source of the odor, Syverson said.

Syverson added that when CCFD units went to Fox Hills because the odor was strongest there, "we believed that the [smell] came from Playa del Rey originally because we checked the wind speed and direction and there was definitely an onshore breeze," he said. He added that LA City also believed it was coming from the beach areas.

"It blew in from that area but it appears it went away. "It was a rogue gas smell."

The buildings that were evacuated in Fox Hills were self-evacuations, Syverson added. They were not organized by CCFD.

As of 4 p.m. Thursday, Syverson said there was nothing more to do at this stage. "I've advised my dispatch that if we receive any further calls regarding this issue we'll respond," he said.

SoCal Edison Plans Daylong Blackout in Marina Del Rey. Time to Go Solar?

2012-02-23T21:00:06Z

The LA County Department of Beaches & Harbors reports that Southern California Edison plans an extended power outage in Marina Del Rey for the entire business day from 8am to 5pm on Tuesday February 28th, 2012.

An email alert went out on Wednesday cautioning Marina Del Rey residents to prepare for the outage by unplugging sensitive equipment, manually opening security gates and garage doors, notifying security companies, and renting backup power supplies amongst other measures.

The reason for the blackout is described as “Upgrade & maintenance” though no explanation was provided for why the day-long blackout is necessary. Customers are advised to visit www.sce.com/outage or call (888) 759-6056 for more information.

After a sharp decline in installation costs, rooftop solar power has become a more cost effective and reliable alternative to grid-provided electricity for many property owners. Learn more about solar energy options for residential, commercial, and multi-family properties and solar group discounts up to 33% through the LA County-wide Open Neighborhoods Community Solar program available through April 30, 2012.

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EDISON SCHEDULED MARINA DEL REY BLACKOUT

WHO:          Southern CA Edison
WHAT:        Planned Power Outage # 491561
WHEN:       Tuesday, Feb. 28, 8 am – 5 pm
WHY:           Upgrade & maintenance to vault located at:
                    14108 1/2 Tahiti Way
                    Marina del Rey, CA

WHERE:   * All buildings (residential & commercial) on Tahiti Way
                   * All buildings in Mariners Village
                   * Traffic & street lights at Admiralty & Tahiti Way
                   * Traffic & street lights at Admiralty & Palawan Way

For more info, visit http://sce.com/outage or call (888) 759-6056.

How to Prepare:
1. Visit http://sce.com/foodsafety for info on refrigerated food
2. Unplug sensitive electronic equipment (computers, TV)
3. Manually open security gates & garage doors
4. Notify any security companies that monitor your home or business
5. Business customers without a backup power supply should rent one, if needed
6. If you use a backup generator & haven’t registered the info with SCE, please let them know before the outage so their employees can be protected from electrical backfeed.

No related stories.

Anglers Excited Over Upcoming Lingcod and Rockfish Opener

2012-02-23T20:49:56Z

Anglers are anxiously awaiting the March 1 lingcod and rockfish opener as they will be able to take home some of the finest eating fish in the sea. Don Ashley from Pierpoint Landing in Long Beach said that last year's bite was the best he had seen in decades.

“We were having some of the best rockfishing I had seen in over 20-years,” Ashley said. “Huge vermillion rockfish along with lots of lingcod and much more.”

Rockfish seen to thrive better in cooler water and Southern California has had its share of that for the past two years. There are over 50 different species of rockfish that inhabit the Southern California Coast and each provides great eating.

One of the best lingcod venues has been San Nicolas Island where catching your two-fish limit of lings is not out of the question. In addition, anglers can catch big sheepshead, whitefish and have a good chance for some big halibut and early season white seabass.

Fishing at San Nicolas Island is done in 120 feet of water or less, so you can bring your light tackle and have a ball.

“I love it because you never know what you may have on the line,” said Scott Buchert from Corona del Mar. “It’s always so interesting to see what you haul up from the depths.”

Peggy Stein took over the lead Sunday in the Dana Wharf Halibut Derby with a giant 43-pound, 10-ounce halibut caught.

“You can count the 40-pound halibut I have seen taken in the past 40 years on one hand,” said longtime skipper Larry Moore. “This is a great accomplishment.”

At Long Beach Sportfishing, five halibut were taken on the Native Sun on Wednesday making this one of the best derbies in years.

“We are not only seeing more halibut, but we are seeing more big halibut, too,” said manager Jennifer Doyle. David Akamine from Torrance is the current leader of the Pot of Gold Halibut Derby with a fat 39-pound, 2-ounce flattie.

The Liberty out of Long Beach Sportfishing headed over to Catalina Island on a Fishing with Phil trip for Presidents Day. The weather was summerlike and while the calico bass and whites seabass were a no show, there were plenty of big perch to fill the sacks. Anglers were also treated to the beautiful sights of the backside of Catalina Island as well as a giant pod of dolphin and two surface-feeding fin whales. You can see much of that in this week's Patch Fishing video.

Twilight fishing remained good on the Native Sun out of Long Beach Sportfishing where anglers are catching good amounts of sand bass and sculpin. This week's warm weather may give the bite an added boost.

A 2-ounce leadhead with some fresh dead squid has been an excellent way to entice a bite from these nocturnal feeders. There has also been some halibut taken as well as a wide open bite on octopus one night.

There are more twilight trips this weekend on the Native Sun. trips sail at 6:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and return around 11:30 p.m.. Reservations at (562) 432-8993.

2011 Marina del Rey Patch Person of the Year: Marie Atake

2012-02-22T01:09:56Z

Marina del Rey Patch would like to announce that Marie Atake, founder of Marina del Rey-based Forte Animal Rescue that has saved the lives of about 900 dogs, has been chosen as the Marina del Rey Patch 2011 Person of the Year.

Atake received 800 of the 1,093 votes in our unscientific poll and also received numerous comments in support of her nomination. Atake founded Forte Animal Rescue and it is named after her Shiloh Shepherd that she saved from a shelter and had from 1992 to 1999. She heads up a Marina del Rey-based all-volunteer, nonprofit group that is a 100 percent no-kill rescue that takes in all types of dogs, from poodles to pit bulls. Since 2002, Forte Animal Rescue has saved the lives of nearly 900 dogs.

Atake from 2005 to 2007 also served on the Los Angeles Animal Services Commission after being appointed Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and the City Council appointed her to the city's Spay/Neuter Advisory Committee that oversaw the implementation of the mandatory spay/neuter ordinance from 2008 until the law became effective in 2009.

Her nominator said that running the rescue group "takes an incredible amount of time, energy, and love to oversee an organization with so many needs and activities, and Marie is a hero to all of us who love animals, and to every animal whose life she has saved."

A commenter, Julie Hoff, said that Atake's work goes beyond saving animals to educating others on how to prevent the over-population of homeless animals.

"It is a wondrous thing when someone has the courage to not only start a non-profit rescue, but what sets her apart, is that she also strives to find the solution, so someday, hopefully, we won't have this epidemic problem," Hoff wrote.

Brigitte Burdine, the talented video game director and casting agent who was killed in December 2010 by a hit-and-run driver in Playa del Rey, received a posthumous nomination in a testament to the positive impact she continues to have among friends, family members and colleagues. Burdine was the second-highest vote-getter with 19 percent of the vote.

Her nominator said that Burdine made a difference in many lives and that her legacy of being compassionate, inclusive and giving is an example to emulate . "In a way, it is what keeps Brigitte alive. Her life has generated many new friendships that came from the common bond of Brigitte," the nominator said.

Los Angeles County Sheriff's Deputy Wayne Yoshimura, of the sheriff's Marina del Rey station, was nominated for his years of dedicated and professional service and recently retired with fanfare from the sheriff's department. Dave Barish, the co-founder of We ARE Marina del Rey, also received 3 percent of the vote.

Congratulations to the nominees and thank you for your contributions to the communities served by Marina del Rey Patch.

For a full list of the nominees, check here.

Power Outage Briefly Hits Parts of Westside, including Venice and LAX

2012-02-21T20:11:00Z

A brief power outage Tuesday morning hit 60,000 customers in parts of the Westside, including Venice, Playa del Rey and Los Angeles International Airport, but power was mostly restored in about 13 minutes, officials said.

The Los Angeles Department of Water & Power posted on its Twitter account that a receiving station, or central hub, experienced a supply disruption shortly after 11 a.m. and the outage lasted for about 13 minutes. The DWP said that while power was restored to most, some smaller outages remained.

A DWP official said that about 60,000 customers lost power initially and 8,600 customers remain without power, but crews were responding.

In Venice, street lights were out at the intersection of Venice and Lincoln boulevards and homes west of Abbot Kinney Boulevard, including the Venice Canals, were without power.

The power outage also extended to LAX and lasted for 10 minutes, but Terminal 2 at noon was waiting for power to be restored, said Albert Rodriguez, a spokesperson for LAX. The airport at 12:15 p.m. said on its Twitter account that all power had been fully restored to all terminals.

There had been no word on flight delays, Rodriguez said.

(Editor's Note: Updated to add that power restored to all terminals.)

Tax Tips: What's New for 2011

2012-02-21T20:00:00Z

Those who haven't yet filed their taxes this year should be aware of a few key changes for 2011 returns, according to the Internal Revenue Service. We've listed just a few of the changes—for more information, visit IRS.gov.

New due date, forms and filing locations

This year's due date for tax returns is April 17—not April 15. Because April 15 is a Sunday and April 16 is the Emancipation Day holiday in Washington D.C., taxpayers get an automatic two-day extension.

The IRS has introduced at least two new forms: Form 8949 (Sales and Other Dispositions of Capital Assets) and Form 8938 (Statement of Foreign Financial Assets). Most people should report their capital gains and losses on the new Form 8949, then write certain totals from that form on Schedule D (Form 1040). People with foreign financial assets in 2011 will probably have to file Form 8938.

In some areas, the IRS has changed the filing location. Those mailing a paper return should see the Form 1040 instructions to find the correct address.

Mileage rates, standard deduction and exemptions increases

Two mileage rates were in effect during 2011. The first, which lasted from Jan. 1 to June 30, allows drivers to deduct 51 cents per mile for business use of their car and 19 cents per mile for medical and moving mileage.

For business mileage during the second half of the year—July 1 through Dec. 31—drivers can deduct 55 1/2 cents per mile. Medical and moving mileage also increased to 23 1/2 cents per mile during the latter half of the year.

The IRS increased the standard deduction for some taxpayers who don't itemize deductions on IRS Schedule A (Form 1040). The amount of the standard deduction depends on a person's filing status.

The amount a person can deduct for each exemption has increased from $3,650 to $3,700 for 2011, according to the IRS.

The alternative minimum tax exemption has also increased to $48,450 for single people, $74,450 for married couples filing jointly and $37,225 for married couples filing separately.

Health coverage tax credit; health savings accounts; self-employed health insurance deduction

The amount of the health coverage tax credit, which pays qualified health insurance premiums for eligible individuals and their families, was increased with recent legislation. "Participants who received the 65 percent tax credit in any month from March to December 2011 may claim an additional 7.5 percent retroactive credit when they file their 2011 tax return," according to the IRS.

For health savings accounts and Archer MSAs, beginning in 2011, only prescribed drugs or insulin are qualified medical expenses, according to the IRS. The additional tax on distributions from HSAs and Archer MSAs not used for qualified medical expenses increased to 20 percent in 2011.

Additionally, taxpayers can no longer deduct self-employed health insurance costs on Schedule SE (Form 1040); however, they can still take the deduction on Form 1040, line 29.

Roth IRAs

Those who converted or rolled over money from a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA or designated Roth in 2010 and didn't elect to report the taxable amount on their 2010 returns generally report half of the taxable amount on their 2011 return and the rest on their 2012 return.

Alternative motor vehicle credit

According to the IRS, the alternative motor vehicle credit can only be claimed for a 2011 car purchase if the vehicle is a new fuel cell car.

First-time homebuyer credit

Though the first-time homebuyer credit has expired for most taxpayers, some military personnel and members of the intelligence community can still claim the credit on their 2011 tax return for qualified purchases.

More information on all of these changes can be found at IRS.gov.

Previously:

Poll: Who Has Marina del Rey Patch's Best Burger?

2012-02-20T23:02:16Z

Mouthwatering. Succulent. Delicious. It's Game On in determining the best hamburger in town. Patch readers have had a week to consider the best burger in their little patch of America, and it's time to vote.

Texture. Aroma. Taste. Everything is in play when it comes to choosing how you want to spend your $2, or maybe you're willing to spend $9. Does cost matter? You can vote with your wallet, the same way you vote for your elected officials. Or you can simply throw your budget to the wind and cast your ballot with the best burger, regardless.

The ... best ... burger. Regardless.

And if there's a burger joint that's not on the list, go ahead and write in your candidate in the comments, just make sure it's in the town that your Patch is covering. We know a good thing when we see it, and we can add it to the ballot—or count the write-in votes. Patch loves an underdog.

So take a few seconds—literally, a few seconds—and punch the ticket for some local eatery to be crowned burger champion of Marina del Rey Patch.

Voting ends Friday at 9 a.m. At that time, we'll know who stacks up, and whose condiments are lacking.

It's burger time.

Presidents Day Closures Scheduled for Monday

2012-02-20T16:53:00Z

Federal, state, county and city government offices will be closed Monday, Feb. 20, in observance of Presidents Day.

U.S. Postal Service offices are also closed for the day, along with banks and the stock market. Schools and libraries also are closed.

Originally known as Washington's Birthday, the federal holiday was established in honor of George Washington, the nation's first president. It is observed on the third Monday in February each year, around the time of Washington's Feb. 22 birthday.

Angelenos Cheer on Mickelson at Riviera

2012-02-17T13:29:00Z

Just before the sun set at the Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades, professional golfer Phil Mickelson birdied the 18th hole to wrap his first round at the Northern Trust Open. And judging by the roar of the crowd, he's a fan favorite.

Angelenos are no exception. Patch spoke to a few local spectators who said the first day of the tournament was beautiful and, since it wasn't as crowded, it was the perfect opportunity to watch Mickelson in action.

Locals also said the tournament is a great thing for the city, bringing in business and exposure. After all, the Riviera holds some history for the game of golf. Tiger Woods played his first tournament at the Riviera when he was just 16 years old.

"After Pebble Beach last week, it's interesting to see our course," said Connie Adams of Venice.

"I went to Paul Revere and to Palisades High School. For me it's like a local litte deal," said John Henry Binder, who now lives in Culver City. "The last time I was here, Corey Pavin won and I was probably in ninth grade or something, which was like 1984 … So then I got back here how many years later and I was like, 'Wow, this is killer.'"

On Thursday, Mickelson was at the top of the partial first-round leaderboard, finishing five under par. J.B. Holmes and Hunter Mahan, who is from Orange, CA, both finished four under.

"I played here a couple of times when I was at USC and it's just a throwback golf course," said Mahan in an interview following the round. "It's a great golf course that doesn't favor anybody. It favors good quality iron shots and good golf."

Watch the video for highlights from Day One at the Northern Trust Open.

For a live blog from Day One at the Northern Trust Open, click here.
For the story about military moms-to-be who were honored at the Riviera during the practice round, click here.
For a story from the LA Times about the buzz surrounding this year's tournament, click here.

Sheriff's Deputy from Marina del Rey Station Arrested for Alleged Lewd Acts Upon Child

2012-02-17T06:56:27Z

A 33-year-old Los Angeles County Sheriff's deputy assigned to the sheriff's Marina del Rey station was arrested Thursday for investigation of lewd acts upon a child, officials said.

Oscar Rodriguez, a Los Angeles resident and 10-year veteran of the department, was arrested by the Los Angeles Police Department, the sheriff's department said in a statement. The alleged acts were committed while Rodriguez was off-duty.

Bail for Rodriguez was set at $100,000.

The LAPD advised and has been in contact with the sheriff's department, which will conduct a separate internal investigation, the statement said.

Rodriguez was immediately relieved of duty by the sheriff's department pending the outcome of both the criminal and administrative investigations.

Rodriguez is the second sheriff's deputy assigned to the Marina del Rey sheriff's station to be charged with sex crimes involving children in the past four months.

Kenneth Alexander, 45, was charged in October with three felony counts of child molestation for crimes allegedly committed after he met a 15-year-old girl while on duty. Alexander, who is free on $115,000 bail, pleaded not guilty in November and has a March 16 preliminary hearing scheduled at the Airport Courthouse.

Military Moms-To-Be Honored at Riviera

2012-02-16T13:02:00Z

Wednesday not only served as a practice round and Pro-Am for the Northern Trust Open at the Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades, it was a day to celebrate a few special mothers.

Nonprofit group "Operation Shower" threw 40 Southern California military moms-to-be a baby shower at a tent called the Patriot's Outpost near the 10th hole.

Companies like Carl's Jr., Pottery Barn Kids and Carousel Designs gave away everything from burgers, to bottles and blankets. Organizers say it was just one way to honor the women whose husbands are serving overseas.

Watch the video to hear how happy the mothers were as actress and guest host Sarah Michelle Gellar announced the gifts!

The Northern Trust Open officially begins Thursday.

For information about Operation Shower, click here.
For information about the Northern Trust Open, click here.

LAPD Names Streets to Avoid During Obama Visit

2012-02-14T19:34:00Z

Update [1:35 p.m.]: The Los Angeles Police Department is advising drivers to stay away from the following areas Wednesday evening and Thursday morning while President Obama travels through the Westwood-Beverly Hills area.

Wednesday evening:

The area around the intersection of Pico Boulevard and Avenue of the Stars from 4-6 p.m.
The area around the intersection of Wilshire Boulevard and Santa Monica Boulevard from 4-6 p.m.
The area around Sunset Boulevard and Beverly Glen Boulevard from 6-8:30 p.m.
The area around the intersection of Wilshire Boulevard and Santa Monica from 6-8:30 p.m.

Thursday morning:

The area around the intersection of Wilshire Boulevard and Santa Monica from 7:30-9:30 a.m.
The area around the intersection of Pico Boulevard and Avenue of the Stars from 7:30-9:30 a.m.

Sean Murphy with NBC Los Angeles reports that Obama's helicopter may land in Cheviot Hills instead of the Veterans Administration campus.

Update: Occupy 90210 is planning a protest in response to President Obama's fundraising event Wednesday evening at Will Rogers Memorial Park. Click here to read more on Beverly Hills Patch.

President Barack Obama will visit the Westwood-Beverly Hills area Wednesday afternoon for a fundraising event, likely bringing traffic with him to adjacent Westside neighborhoods.

Update: If you happen to see the president's helicopter or motorcade, snap a quick photo or video and send it to your local Patch editor. Click here for more information or to upload your files.

Los Angeles City Councilman Bill Rosendahl, who chairs the Transportation Committee, said Obama's travel to an evening fundraiser is likely to cause some delays along the major east-west routes of Santa Monica, Wilshire and Sunset boulevards.

But he said that the delays will not be terrible.

The president will land at LAX around 3 p.m. and will be flown by helicopter to the Veterans Administration Hospital near UCLA. Around 5 p.m., his motorcade will pass through Westwood, likely on Sunset or Wilshire boulevards, to Holmby Hills for a fundraising event at the home of soap opera star Bradley Bell, reports TotalTrafficLA.com.

Road closures have not been announced yet, but traffic is expected to be a little lighter than usual compared with the president's previous visits, according to TotalTrafficLA.com. Police may be picking up barricades as soon as the motorcade passes, alleviating street congestion.

The Foo Fighters are scheduled to perform at Bell's home and to attend the reception with the president. Tickets for the concert cost $1,500. Tickets to the dinner with the president cost $35,800.

The president will stay overnight at the Beverly Hilton, arriving around 8-9 p.m.

Thursday morning rush hour traffic could also be more severe than usual as Obama leaves his hotel for a 7 a.m. breakfast fundraiser at the Corona del Mar home of Jeff and Nancy Stack, according to Bruce Gillman of the Los Angeles Department of Transportation.

Secret Service Special Agent Joseph Beaty said traffic delays "are not something we ignore... We want to be as least intrusive as we have to be."

Rosendahl said he conferred with White House staff, the Secret Service and Los Angeles police officials about Obama's visit and was assured the security will use so-called "soft closures," shutting down and re-opening streets as Obama's motorcade comes and goes, rather than extended closures of several possible routes to his destination.

"It will be a very, very un-impactful, quick trip," Rosendahl said.

— City News Service contributed to this report.

Land Sharks?

2012-02-15T21:38:00Z

Photo: Broadway Elementary in Venice Unveils Art Therapy Mural

2012-02-15T21:09:15Z

More than 300 students at Broadway Elementary School in Venice earlier this week attended the unveiling of an outdoor mosaic mural created as part of a multicultural student art therapy project.

The mural was created under the direction of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center's "Share and Care" program that uses art therapy and group discussions to teach new coping skills to improve academic performance and classroom behavior.

The “Share and Care” Program has been operating in the Los Angeles Unified School District for 18 years and has provided outlets for children coping with the 1994 Northridge Earthquake, 9/11, gang violence, fires and car accidents.

A Parsons Foundation grant helps supplement the costs of providing the program at Broadway Elementary School, which is home to the largest Mandarin Immersion language program on the Westside.

Do you have photos of school murals that you would like to share? Feel free to upload them.

L.A. County to Rewrite Beach Activities Law Following Uproar

2012-02-15T19:18:00Z

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday ordered the Department of Beaches and Harbors to rewrite a recently amended ordinance that caused an uproar from here to London over fines for football and Frisbee throwing on the beach.

Supervisor Don Knabe, whose 4th District includes Marina del Rey and Playa del Rey, said in a statement that the intent of the updated beach ordinance was to remove restrictions on ball-playing, but was perceived as the "exact opposite."

“I appreciate the director of Beaches and Harbors clarifying the ordinance at our meeting (Tuesday)," Knabe said. "But I am concerned that a misunderstanding will continue. We must do a better job of creating clear communications to minimize confusion like we had on this one when incorrect information went viral.”

Knabe said the amended ordinance should be rewritten in a manner that "clearly states that such activities by small groups and individuals are allowed on the County beach, unless directed otherwise by the County Lifeguard or other designees to protect public safety and enjoyment of the beach."

Last week, the board approved updated policies regarding lifeguards, boating and beach recreation in and around Los Angeles County beaches. Old rules related to beach sports, which included a prohibition on playing football on the sand, were loosened to allow football and Frisbees and to add sailboarding, kiteboarding and paddleboarding to the list of beach activities.

The amended ordinance also gave code enforcement officers with the county's Department of Beachs and Harbors the authority to issue citations for rule-breakers. In addition, it also outlined how either law enforcement or code enforcement officers could issue citations for anyone failing to end ball-playing during the summer months after being warned by a lifeguard.

According to Santos Kreimann, director of the county's Department of Beaches and Harbors, erroneous reports last week that anyone tossing a football or a Frisbee could be fined $1,000 outraged some Frisbee and football fans.

Related: Update: Supervisors Approve New Rules for Beach Games

"It went viral within minutes," said Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky. He said his office was inundated with complaints from as far away as London.

Knabe and Michael Antonovich wanted Kreimann at the meeting to publicly clarify the rules, and Knabe recommended going a step further.

"While I appreciate the clarification, I'm concerned that misunderstandings will continue," Knabe said. "Given the fact that no tickets have been issued in 40 years ... allowing such activity should be the rule rather than the exception."

Knabe said he discussed the changes with lifeguards and they agreed that an updated ordinance was needed. It was unclear how long it would take for county lawyers to make the changes, which would then be codified by a vote of the board.

The vote in support of the change was unanimous.