Next bookstore down: Mrs. Nelson's in La Verne - LA Observed
I bought many books for my children here, sad to see it leave. E.P.
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Today in Labor History
December 31 --
United Mine Workers reformer Joseph "Jock" Yablonski, his wife and daughter are murdered by hit men hired by union president Tony Boyle, who was to be convicted of the crime and eventually die in prison - 1969
OSHA adopts a grain handling facilities standard to protect 155,000 workers at nearly 24,000 grain elevators from the risk of fire and explosion from highly combustible grain dust - 1987
December 31, 1931 – 60,000 unemployed workers rallied at Pitt Stadium in Pittsburgh, near Father Cox's Shantytown. The shantytown lasted from 1929 to 1932 and was the staging base for the Reverend James Cox's unemployed army. (From the Daily Bleed)
There was no unemployment compensation and welfare did not exist except for widowed mothers. The situation quickly became desperate for tens of thousands of workers and their families.
Only massive government action could deal with a problem of this magnitude. The unemployed themselves began to organize to demand such aid.
They called for sufficient government relief to provide an unemployed family with a survival budget and for the creation of public employment on a large scale. They also organized to combat the evictions and foreclosures of thousands of unemployed renters and homeowners.
On March 6, 1930. International Unemployment Day, 5,000 unemployed gathered at the Pennsylvania Railroad Station. Their march toward downtown was broken up after half a block by dozens of club-wielding police.
Despite this initial setback, protests grew as the Depression deepened. By October,. 1930, the Pittsburgh City Council agreed to appropriate $100,000 for emergency relief, but these funds ran out on January 15, 1931. On that day another demonstration of thousands took place, this time in front of the City Council Building. The rally was sponsored by the Unemployed Councils and their allies. Seven of their members told City Council their demands for free coal and children's winter clothing, as well as public service jobs.
Protests mounted in 1931 and 1932. The councils organized several marches to Washington and Harrisburg. Unlike the famous march led by Pittsburgh's Father James Cox, which was cautiously welcomed by government officials fearful of antagonizing both the religious community and the jobless, many of these marches were met with fierce repression. Marchers returning from Washington after one demonstration were denied entrance to the city by police and forced to camp out on Neville Island.
The protests of the unemployed reached a peak in 1933 and 1934.
Because of actions like these across the nation, President Roosevelt and Congress were forced to act. The WPA, PWA, and CCC Provided millions of temporary jobs. In 1935 the Social Security Act established old age pensions, unemployment compensation and public welfare. It was clear that the organized unemployed had played a major part in winning these gains. Many took this lesson with them into the struggle to build unions in steel and auto.
http://pa.aflcio.org/alleghenyco/?action=article&articleid=d8162500-42d7-42ef-8dbf-f8f99f138806
PHOTO- Unemployment line Pittsburgh, 1933
There was no unemployment compensation and welfare did not exist except for widowed mothers. The situation quickly became desperate for tens of thousands of workers and their families.
Only massive government action could deal with a problem of this magnitude. The unemployed themselves began to organize to demand such aid.
They called for sufficient government relief to provide an unemployed family with a survival budget and for the creation of public employment on a large scale. They also organized to combat the evictions and foreclosures of thousands of unemployed renters and homeowners.
On March 6, 1930. International Unemployment Day, 5,000 unemployed gathered at the Pennsylvania Railroad Station. Their march toward downtown was broken up after half a block by dozens of club-wielding police.
Despite this initial setback, protests grew as the Depression deepened. By October,. 1930, the Pittsburgh City Council agreed to appropriate $100,000 for emergency relief, but these funds ran out on January 15, 1931. On that day another demonstration of thousands took place, this time in front of the City Council Building. The rally was sponsored by the Unemployed Councils and their allies. Seven of their members told City Council their demands for free coal and children's winter clothing, as well as public service jobs.
Protests mounted in 1931 and 1932. The councils organized several marches to Washington and Harrisburg. Unlike the famous march led by Pittsburgh's Father James Cox, which was cautiously welcomed by government officials fearful of antagonizing both the religious community and the jobless, many of these marches were met with fierce repression. Marchers returning from Washington after one demonstration were denied entrance to the city by police and forced to camp out on Neville Island.
The protests of the unemployed reached a peak in 1933 and 1934.
Because of actions like these across the nation, President Roosevelt and Congress were forced to act. The WPA, PWA, and CCC Provided millions of temporary jobs. In 1935 the Social Security Act established old age pensions, unemployment compensation and public welfare. It was clear that the organized unemployed had played a major part in winning these gains. Many took this lesson with them into the struggle to build unions in steel and auto.
http://pa.aflcio.org/alleghenyco/?action=article&articleid=d8162500-42d7-42ef-8dbf-f8f99f138806
PHOTO- Unemployment line Pittsburgh, 1933
Saturday, December 28, 2013
Friday, December 27, 2013
Tribune is now the biggest Fox and CW affiliates - Peter Liquori
From: Peter Liguori
Sent: Friday, December 27, 2013 8:43 AM
Subject: Tribune and Local TV Transaction Officially Closed
Today is a historic day for Tribune Company and Local TV. We have officially closed the transaction that brings our two companies together.
As you can see from the attached press release and map, Local TV and Tribune combined create a broadcasting powerhouse with 39 television stations, reaching 50 million households. As of today, Tribune is the #1 FOX affiliate group and the #1 CW affiliate group in the country. Additionally, Tribune will support the operations of three former Local TV stations now owned by Dreamcatcher.
The increase in scale of Tribune broadcasting promises to enhance every aspect of our business including our relationships with programmers, advertisers, and cable and satellite partners.
However, what most excites me is not the sheer size of our broadcasting operation, but the possibilities it affords us. As our industry continues to evolve, we will be in a position to work together to define the Tribune of the future.
To the thousands of employees across the country at Tribune stations, I invite you to take a fresh look at how we deliver information to our viewers and take the opportunity to challenge convention, inspire curiosity, and dare to anticipate the future needs of the audience. Our success will not be determined simply by growing the number of Tribune stations, but by growing our commitment to new ideas and innovations that will shape our relationship with viewers for years to come.
Local TV and Tribune share many common values. Both organizations share a deep commitment to serving our local communities and an unceasing work ethic. There may be different stories being reported on WGHP in Greensboro or KSWB in San Diego, but we share a vision to enrich people’s lives in the communities we serve through meaningful news and information.
As we come together, it is important that we operate as one cohesive culture and that we create an environment of passion and excellence that supports and rewards extraordinary outcomes. Culture is not owned by the company, it is owned by each and every person and we all have a responsibility to make this a terrific place to work. Our newly revised Employee Handbook articulates our values, standards and expectations for our company. The handbook can be found on the company intranet, TribLink. Local TV employees, who may not yet have access to our systems, will receive a flash drive with the handbook and other on-boarding material later today.
Over the last four months, Larry Wert and I visited with the management teams of the Local TV’s stations joining Tribune’s broadcast group. We came away more confident than ever that we have a chance to truly distinguish Tribune stations in each market. We are excited about what the future holds, and look forward to working together as we build Tribune into one of the most respected media and entertainment companies in the world.
Peter
h/t Brett Levy
Sent: Friday, December 27, 2013 8:43 AM
Subject: Tribune and Local TV Transaction Officially Closed
Today is a historic day for Tribune Company and Local TV. We have officially closed the transaction that brings our two companies together.
As you can see from the attached press release and map, Local TV and Tribune combined create a broadcasting powerhouse with 39 television stations, reaching 50 million households. As of today, Tribune is the #1 FOX affiliate group and the #1 CW affiliate group in the country. Additionally, Tribune will support the operations of three former Local TV stations now owned by Dreamcatcher.
The increase in scale of Tribune broadcasting promises to enhance every aspect of our business including our relationships with programmers, advertisers, and cable and satellite partners.
However, what most excites me is not the sheer size of our broadcasting operation, but the possibilities it affords us. As our industry continues to evolve, we will be in a position to work together to define the Tribune of the future.
To the thousands of employees across the country at Tribune stations, I invite you to take a fresh look at how we deliver information to our viewers and take the opportunity to challenge convention, inspire curiosity, and dare to anticipate the future needs of the audience. Our success will not be determined simply by growing the number of Tribune stations, but by growing our commitment to new ideas and innovations that will shape our relationship with viewers for years to come.
Local TV and Tribune share many common values. Both organizations share a deep commitment to serving our local communities and an unceasing work ethic. There may be different stories being reported on WGHP in Greensboro or KSWB in San Diego, but we share a vision to enrich people’s lives in the communities we serve through meaningful news and information.
As we come together, it is important that we operate as one cohesive culture and that we create an environment of passion and excellence that supports and rewards extraordinary outcomes. Culture is not owned by the company, it is owned by each and every person and we all have a responsibility to make this a terrific place to work. Our newly revised Employee Handbook articulates our values, standards and expectations for our company. The handbook can be found on the company intranet, TribLink. Local TV employees, who may not yet have access to our systems, will receive a flash drive with the handbook and other on-boarding material later today.
Over the last four months, Larry Wert and I visited with the management teams of the Local TV’s stations joining Tribune’s broadcast group. We came away more confident than ever that we have a chance to truly distinguish Tribune stations in each market. We are excited about what the future holds, and look forward to working together as we build Tribune into one of the most respected media and entertainment companies in the world.
Peter
h/t Brett Levy
Press Release: Tribune Closes Acquisition of Local TV Holdings
Tribune Company announced today that it has completed the final steps necessary to close its acquisition of Local TV Holdings, LLC. The transaction creates the largest combined independent broadcast group and content creator in the country.
“This is a historic day for Tribune and Local TV,” said Peter Liguori, Tribune’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “Combining these two great media companies will deliver tremendous benefits for our viewers, advertisers, and most important, the communities we serve. This is a transformational acquisition for Tribune, providing us with significant scale to drive our business objectives and create substantial shareholder value.”
As a result of this acquisition, Tribune now owns 39 television stations across the country. In addition, Tribune will provide certain services to support the operations of three former Local TV stations owned by Dreamcatcher Broadcasting LLC.
The combined broadcast portfolios include 14 FOX affiliates, 14 CW affiliates, 5 CBS affiliates, 3 ABC affiliates and 2 NBC affiliates. Tribune owns 14 stations in top-20 markets and the company is now the #1 FOX affiliate group and the #1 CW affiliate group in the country. The transaction added market-leading stations in prime cities such as Denver, Cleveland, St. Louis, Kansas City, Salt Lake City and Milwaukee to the Tribune line-up.
Sherry Stern's departure from the Los Angeles Times
Sherry Stern's goodbye note:
From: Stern, Sherry
Sent: Friday, December 27, 2013 2:20 PM
To: yyeditall
Subject: So Long. Farewell.
For a change I’m not selling Angels or USC tickets, and instead sharing a note of auf Wiedersehen (to keep up the “Sound of Music” theme of my subject line).
This is a happy time as I look ahead, but also a sad one as I say good-bye after 24 years at The Times and 35-plus in journalism.
As this day has approached, I’ve been reflecting on my time in newspapers and my long-held friendships. I’ve known some of you since we were on the Daily Trojan at USC, others at the Arizona Daily Star, the Vista Press and the Orange County Register.
Please indulge me words of thanks to those who made my work meaningful and enjoyable.
First I tip my cap to key people who most influenced my career: Joe Saltzman, Blair Charnley, the late Bob Epstein, John Lindsay, John Montorio and (of course) C.P. Smith.
Plus a huge note of gratitude to the people I have worked alongside in Calendar and who have made it such a special place. I started to name you, but the list got too long. You are talented, smart and funny.
I leave with incredible admiration for Kelly Scott and the entire arts team -- they continue to do consequential journalism even as their ranks and resources diminish. I want to specifically mention Mark Swed, the writer I’ve worked the closest with over the past five years. He is an editor’s dream and brings as much passion and expertise to his work as anyone on this paper’s talented staff.
Finally, I can’t leave without acknowledging LAT copy editors and designers, perennially overworked and making the rest of us look good every day.
I’ll think of you all every day when I pick up the Los Angeles Times on my driveway.
And please let me know if you are interested in seeing any Angels games. We have great seats!
Adieu,
Sherry
h/t Brett Levy
From: Stern, Sherry
Sent: Friday, December 27, 2013 2:20 PM
To: yyeditall
Subject: So Long. Farewell.
For a change I’m not selling Angels or USC tickets, and instead sharing a note of auf Wiedersehen (to keep up the “Sound of Music” theme of my subject line).
This is a happy time as I look ahead, but also a sad one as I say good-bye after 24 years at The Times and 35-plus in journalism.
As this day has approached, I’ve been reflecting on my time in newspapers and my long-held friendships. I’ve known some of you since we were on the Daily Trojan at USC, others at the Arizona Daily Star, the Vista Press and the Orange County Register.
Please indulge me words of thanks to those who made my work meaningful and enjoyable.
First I tip my cap to key people who most influenced my career: Joe Saltzman, Blair Charnley, the late Bob Epstein, John Lindsay, John Montorio and (of course) C.P. Smith.
Plus a huge note of gratitude to the people I have worked alongside in Calendar and who have made it such a special place. I started to name you, but the list got too long. You are talented, smart and funny.
I leave with incredible admiration for Kelly Scott and the entire arts team -- they continue to do consequential journalism even as their ranks and resources diminish. I want to specifically mention Mark Swed, the writer I’ve worked the closest with over the past five years. He is an editor’s dream and brings as much passion and expertise to his work as anyone on this paper’s talented staff.
Finally, I can’t leave without acknowledging LAT copy editors and designers, perennially overworked and making the rest of us look good every day.
I’ll think of you all every day when I pick up the Los Angeles Times on my driveway.
And please let me know if you are interested in seeing any Angels games. We have great seats!
Adieu,
Sherry
h/t Brett Levy
Fortunate Son - A Tribute to Creedence Clearwater Revival - This Sunday
The Coffee Gallery Backstage
2029 N. Lake
Altadena, Ca. 91001
(626) 798-6236
CONGRATULATIONS James Bolden, on the upcoming New Year’s release iTROJAN
CONGRATULATIONS to our dear friend, Mr. James Bolden, on the upcoming New Year’s release of his new book, iTROJAN.
“Bound to be one of 2014’s Bestsellers”, says The Daily Journal. The Los Angeles Times calls it, “Riveting… A Must Read” The Daily Bruin exclaims, “This work will indeed help many”. PBS Book Reviews declare, “This compelling story may likely be on its way to The New York Times’ top ten for 2014”.
“Bound to be one of 2014’s Bestsellers”, says The Daily Journal. The Los Angeles Times calls it, “Riveting… A Must Read” The Daily Bruin exclaims, “This work will indeed help many”. PBS Book Reviews declare, “This compelling story may likely be on its way to The New York Times’ top ten for 2014”.
In Highland Park, a 'newspaper sidewalk' is machinist's legacy
LAT writer Bob Pool, with LAT photographer Gary Friedman, and Edward
Bob Pool wrote an interesting article regarding front pages of the Los Angeles Times saved in cement. The story can be read here: Leon Rudek has passed on, but the concrete facsimiles of L.A. Times front pages he made from printing plates have preserved an era.
Additional photos can be viewed here: FLICKR
Bizarre, a set on Flickr.
Here's a letter Bob Pool shared regarding the story:
Here's a letter Bob Pool shared regarding the story:
Mr.Pool;
I cannot tell you how much I enjoyed your story honoring Leon, which brought me to tears. You see Leon did start off as a machinist and was often sent up to my department, at the time as photo-engraving. This man could solve problems with our photo-processers that often stumped our regular machinists on our floor. Every now and than, the main machine shop would send Leon to help solve the problem. He was a very dedicated worker and afterword he would stop by my office and ask me what we did on our floor. I remember giving him the VIP, step by step tour of the shop and I could see the wonder in his eyes. He stood and looked at me and could tell that I too was some kind of emigrant.
Through the years before transfering to the new pressroom he would stop by and we would talk about what a great country this truly is to work for. I could see the sparkle in his eye as he went over how he came to "USA" as he recalled.
Funny, every now and than, I would see him walk out of the building with a few of these so called blankets from the press room area, but who could imagine what they were for. I feel more privleged to have know this talented man as I read your story/ legacy to Mr. Leon Rudek.
I thank you for taking the time to read what I knew of Leon. You've brought back very great moments in my recall of working for this once great newspaper.
Regards and aloha,
Joe Urbano 2001 retiree(Prepress operations/37 yrs.)
Los Angeles Times Pressmen's Breakfast - CANCELLED
From Emmett Jaime:
To all retirees,the breakfast I had scheduled on Jan.9th 2014 has been cancelled. Because of a scheduling problem I have to cancel the breakfast and re-schedule it. Sorry for the inconvenience, I will get us a new date and get back to you as soon as possible,if you know of somebody that was planning on coming please notify them. I do not have a phone number for Harold Rios or George Van Dyke, if anybody can get a hold if them I would appreciate it.
Sorry for the inconvenience.
Today in Labor History
December 27 -- 
President Roosevelt seizes the railroads to avert a nationwide strike. His decision to temporarily place the railroads under the “supervision” of the War Department prompts the five railroad brotherhoods to agree to his offer to arbitrate the wage dispute - 1943
(Understanding the Railway Labor Act: The title of this book says it all. Author Frank N. Wilner is the ultimate authority on labor-management relations in the railroad industry. His latest book is incredibly helpful to those seeking to learn more about rail labor history, the mechanics of rail labor law, and how railroads and their multiple unions bargain collectively under the RLA's provisions. It is hugely helpful as well to those familiar with the RLA but seeking a reference work providing greater detail on the law's provisions and how they impact negotiations at the national and local levels.)
(Understanding the Railway Labor Act: The title of this book says it all. Author Frank N. Wilner is the ultimate authority on labor-management relations in the railroad industry. His latest book is incredibly helpful to those seeking to learn more about rail labor history, the mechanics of rail labor law, and how railroads and their multiple unions bargain collectively under the RLA's provisions. It is hugely helpful as well to those familiar with the RLA but seeking a reference work providing greater detail on the law's provisions and how they impact negotiations at the national and local levels.)
Wednesday, December 25, 2013
Tuesday, December 24, 2013
Los Angeles City Councilman Mitch O'Farrell's War On The Poor
Mitch O'Farrell's War On The Poor
Angelenos,
Mitch O'Farrell seconded Motion 13-1238 in September of 2013, which called for passing a law in Los Angeles criminalizing the feeding of homeless people in public spaces.
This motion would require groups like us, Monday Night Mission and many others to use indoor facilities to feed the homeless when we do not have the financial resources to do so. This would shutdown our organization as well as countless others who not only feed the homeless, but people with housing who can't afford to eat.
The Council member who brought about this motion Tom Labonge has assured us that he will not support a ban on feeding the homeless in public spaces, while Mitch O'Farrell has not come out with a clear statement on his intentions. Last week he stated to NBC that he wants "The experts to weigh in"
If such a law is passed it would cut off over 100,000 meals each month served by over 100's of groups who do street feeding. Mitch O'Farrell has not come up with a solution as to how he will replace these meals that serve the 58,000 people who are homeless in LA as well as those who can't afford to eat.
Our group Monday Night Mission never intended to take on a political stance but facing such a ban and knowing how many people would go hungry we decided that we could not afford to sit and wait anymore.
Politicians have always taken the side of profit over the poor. It is high time that we take the side of the poor over these politicians.
We request that Mitch O'Farrell publicly state that he will not pursue a ban or any restrictions on feeding the homeless in public spaces or that he provides an alternative food source for the meals that will be denied for the hungry.
Until then we will continue to operate this page to mobilize Angelenos to defeat Mitch O'Farrell's War On The Poor.
Thank you,
Mel Tillekeratne
Founder and Leader,
Monday Night Mission
http://www.facebook.com/
“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.”
― Martin Luther King Jr.
Mitch O'Farrell seconded Motion 13-1238 in September of 2013, which called for passing a law in Los Angeles criminalizing the feeding of homeless people in public spaces.
This motion would require groups like us, Monday Night Mission and many others to use indoor facilities to feed the homeless when we do not have the financial resources to do so. This would shutdown our organization as well as countless others who not only feed the homeless, but people with housing who can't afford to eat.
The Council member who brought about this motion Tom Labonge has assured us that he will not support a ban on feeding the homeless in public spaces, while Mitch O'Farrell has not come out with a clear statement on his intentions. Last week he stated to NBC that he wants "The experts to weigh in"
If such a law is passed it would cut off over 100,000 meals each month served by over 100's of groups who do street feeding. Mitch O'Farrell has not come up with a solution as to how he will replace these meals that serve the 58,000 people who are homeless in LA as well as those who can't afford to eat.
Our group Monday Night Mission never intended to take on a political stance but facing such a ban and knowing how many people would go hungry we decided that we could not afford to sit and wait anymore.
Politicians have always taken the side of profit over the poor. It is high time that we take the side of the poor over these politicians.
We request that Mitch O'Farrell publicly state that he will not pursue a ban or any restrictions on feeding the homeless in public spaces or that he provides an alternative food source for the meals that will be denied for the hungry.
Until then we will continue to operate this page to mobilize Angelenos to defeat Mitch O'Farrell's War On The Poor.
Thank you,
Mel Tillekeratne
Founder and Leader,
Monday Night Mission
http://www.facebook.com/
“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.”
― Martin Luther King Jr.
Today in Labor History
December 24 --
Seventy-two copper miners’ children die in panic caused by a company stooge at Calumet, Mich., who shouted “fire” up the stairs into a crowded hall where the children had gathered. They were crushed against closed doors when they tried to flee - 1913
Teamster Horsemen bring Christmas for the kids in LA ...via Teamsters Local 396 -Mel
Monday, December 23, 2013
Monday Night in the Blogosphere
Meet Loretta, she lives on San Julian, behind the Rescue Mission
Time Warner, Tribune sign retrans agreement - CED Magazine
Gannett, Sander Media selling three stations in $407.5M deal - Poynter
Aaron Kushner: I don't believe in afflicting the comfortable - Romenesko
Sun-Times Media to sell one of its suburban newspapers - The Business Journal
Tribune To Acquire Sony Audio Recognition Unit Gracenote For $170 Mil - Tech Crunch
Plan for Tribune Spinoff Raises Concerns for Future of Newspaper Operations - NY Times
Scranton-based media company sells four alternative newspapers - Scranton Times-Tribune
Gannett announced it closed the $2.2 bil purchase of 20-station TV co. Belo - Gannett Blog
Print survival questioned if Tribune severs newspapers from TV, digital businesses - Poynter
Statement from Tribune Company CEO Peter Liquori
From: Peter Liguori
Sent: Monday, December 23, 2013 9:06 AM
Subject: Tribune Announces Agreement To Acquire Gracenote
Today, we are announcing a very exciting acquisition for the company. We have entered into an agreement with Sony Corporation of America to purchase Gracenote, a leading music technology and metadata provider. Gracenote will join forces with Tribune Media Services to extend our core competency in metadata, which is in increasing demand across the globe, and position us for future growth.
You may not be aware of Gracenote, but chances are you are familiar with its service. Gracenote technology is featured in thousands of mobile Apps, including Apple’s iTunes, and in 50 million cars, providing data on more than 180 million music tracks and one million movies and TV shows. It is the most trafficked music data source globally with more than 16 billion look-ups per month. It is a 15 year-old company that has consistently achieved double-digit annual revenue growth for more than a decade.
As we strategically invest in growth areas, increase our scale, and extend our core businesses, Gracenote is an ideal addition to our portfolio. Bringing together Gracenote with Tribune Media Services will create one of the largest entertainment metadata companies in the world.
I want to thank Shashi Seth for his leadership and vision in forging this partnership, and I look forward to welcoming Stephen White and all Gracenote employees to the Tribune family.
We will be issuing the attached press release momentarily.
Best wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season.
Peter
Sent: Monday, December 23, 2013 9:06 AM
Subject: Tribune Announces Agreement To Acquire Gracenote
Today, we are announcing a very exciting acquisition for the company. We have entered into an agreement with Sony Corporation of America to purchase Gracenote, a leading music technology and metadata provider. Gracenote will join forces with Tribune Media Services to extend our core competency in metadata, which is in increasing demand across the globe, and position us for future growth.
You may not be aware of Gracenote, but chances are you are familiar with its service. Gracenote technology is featured in thousands of mobile Apps, including Apple’s iTunes, and in 50 million cars, providing data on more than 180 million music tracks and one million movies and TV shows. It is the most trafficked music data source globally with more than 16 billion look-ups per month. It is a 15 year-old company that has consistently achieved double-digit annual revenue growth for more than a decade.
As we strategically invest in growth areas, increase our scale, and extend our core businesses, Gracenote is an ideal addition to our portfolio. Bringing together Gracenote with Tribune Media Services will create one of the largest entertainment metadata companies in the world.
I want to thank Shashi Seth for his leadership and vision in forging this partnership, and I look forward to welcoming Stephen White and all Gracenote employees to the Tribune family.
We will be issuing the attached press release momentarily.
Best wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season.
Peter
David Joe has left the Los Angeles Times after 38 Years.
Today in Labor History
December 23 --
AFL officers are found in contempt of court for urging a labor boycott of Buck's Stove and Range Co. in St Louis, where the Metal Polishers were striking for a 9-hour day - 1908
Construction workers top out the North Tower of the World Trade Center at 1,368 feet, making it the tallest building in the world - 1970
(Bigger Labor: A Crash Course for Construction Union Organizers is a comprehensive guide to construction organizing best practices. It covers everything from what to do on a picket line to tips on visiting job sites, from effective handbilling to dealing with police, from building a banner to salting. It offers building trades organizers extensive communication tips for every situation, from following up with potential recruits to effectively getting your point across at public hearings.)
(Bigger Labor: A Crash Course for Construction Union Organizers is a comprehensive guide to construction organizing best practices. It covers everything from what to do on a picket line to tips on visiting job sites, from effective handbilling to dealing with police, from building a banner to salting. It offers building trades organizers extensive communication tips for every situation, from following up with potential recruits to effectively getting your point across at public hearings.)
Wal-Mart Stores Inc., the nation's largest employer, with 1.4 million "associates," agrees to settle 63 wage and hour suits across the U.S., for a grand total of between $352 million and $640 million. It was accused of failure to pay overtime, requiring off-the-clock work, and failure to provide required meal and rest breaks - 2008
Sunday, December 22, 2013
Statement from Monday Night Mission Founder Mel Tillekeratne
By Mel Tillekeratne
Dear Residents of Hollywood and West Hollywood,
Yes we understand. We really do!
Nobody wants to see someone’s piss on their wall. Worst yet nobody wants to see human feces or needles on their lawn. So don’t get me wrong. Yes, we here at Monday Night Mission do sympathize with what you have to face every day.
We’re not just saying we sympathize not knowing what you’re going through. Some of us see what you see quite a lot. Some of us like me live in downtown LA and see much worse!
Our members see worse by visiting Skid-row. See we go to Skid-row every week night. It’s literally impossible not step on piss when you’re on Skid-row. For every needle you see, we see 10. For every homeless person you see, we see dozens!
I know some of you have said that the homeless people in your area should go to Skid-row or downtown LA. You might have heard that there’s a lot shelters and services there. Someone might have told you that if you’re homeless you can just go to Skid-row and get a bed. They might have even told you that no one goes hungry on Skid-row as there’s plenty of food.
Let me tell you something. That’s Bullshit!
I have been to Skid-row over 250 nights this year. I know a bit more about Skid-row than most of these people who are making decisions for its people. Yes there are shelters. But these shelters are so overcrowded and dirty that most regular Angelenos wouldn’t even walk close to them let alone walk inside.
The last shelter to leave its doors open is the Midnight Mission. That’s if you’re lucky to get there in time to sleep in their courtyard. I’m talking about around 60 people crammed into a space the size of a 2 bedroom apartment. Yes there’s a little more space on the street but trust me you want to be in that courtyard when darkness falls than the street.
People get beaten regularly!
Some nights it’s heartbreaking to see some of our regulars sporting cuts and black eyes. Some nights we see them get beaten. Some of these people are some of the gentlest people I know. Some really old! But that doesn’t matter on Skid-row.
In November Kira came up to me. She didn’t want food. She just wanted to cry. Cry, cry and cry some more. Why?
Kira was raped that night. Tell you the truth I didn’t even tell her to call the cops. Women who get raped on Skid-row can’t call the cops. When you don’t have doors and locks to hide behind, you can’t call 911 because you will end up dead the next morning if you do!
Can you blame these people for wanting to be in your neighborhood when the only other place they have left to go is Skid-row?
If you don’t believe me you’re welcome to come see Skid-row with us anytime.
We know and understand the issues you have. But bringing an ordinance to ban street feeding is not the way to go. Actually it’s the worst possible. What we need to do is work on a real solution. Not try to shove the Greater West Hollywood Food Coalition into a parking lot or an indoor facility.
We need more facilities for our homeless population. I mean living facilities not just indoor dining halls. We know you have suggested a different location for the GWHFC. But to suggest that certain people don’t have a right or deserve to live in a particular area is wrong!
Los Angeles is a city of minorities. Some of whom who came here to flee oppression. For a better life and for rights just like everyone else.
How can we be a haven for the oppressed and then suddenly become the oppressor?
This city has a history of working hard to confine our homeless population and mentally ill into Skid-row.
I searched a name in Wikipedia. The answer I got was:
“Use of the word "concentration" came from the idea of using documents confining to one place a group of people who are in some way undesirable.”
The name I used in Wikipedia search was “Concentration camp”…….....
This motion 13-1238 would target the homeless the same way ethnic groups have been singled out for genocide based on common traits.
It isn’t enough that you not support this motion. You need to speak out against it!
I don’t think the people behind this motion fully knew what they were doing. I don’t think they understood the implications either and some are already backing out of it. But there are others who are silently waiting and watching.
Waiting to see your reaction to pursue more bans and laws that would rid this city of its 58,000 homeless population. All in the pursuit of political power and money.
This is why it is so important that you speak out!
Otherwise Hollywood and West Hollywood will go down in history as the start of LA’s homeless purge.
Being tolerant of the existence of your homeless neighbors might truly mean their chance at survival.
I hope you do the right thing!
Mel Tillekeratne
Founder and Leader,
Monday Night Mission
"If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other.”
- Mother Teresa
Dear Residents of Hollywood and West Hollywood,
Yes we understand. We really do!
Nobody wants to see someone’s piss on their wall. Worst yet nobody wants to see human feces or needles on their lawn. So don’t get me wrong. Yes, we here at Monday Night Mission do sympathize with what you have to face every day.
We’re not just saying we sympathize not knowing what you’re going through. Some of us see what you see quite a lot. Some of us like me live in downtown LA and see much worse!
Our members see worse by visiting Skid-row. See we go to Skid-row every week night. It’s literally impossible not step on piss when you’re on Skid-row. For every needle you see, we see 10. For every homeless person you see, we see dozens!
I know some of you have said that the homeless people in your area should go to Skid-row or downtown LA. You might have heard that there’s a lot shelters and services there. Someone might have told you that if you’re homeless you can just go to Skid-row and get a bed. They might have even told you that no one goes hungry on Skid-row as there’s plenty of food.
Let me tell you something. That’s Bullshit!
I have been to Skid-row over 250 nights this year. I know a bit more about Skid-row than most of these people who are making decisions for its people. Yes there are shelters. But these shelters are so overcrowded and dirty that most regular Angelenos wouldn’t even walk close to them let alone walk inside.
The last shelter to leave its doors open is the Midnight Mission. That’s if you’re lucky to get there in time to sleep in their courtyard. I’m talking about around 60 people crammed into a space the size of a 2 bedroom apartment. Yes there’s a little more space on the street but trust me you want to be in that courtyard when darkness falls than the street.
People get beaten regularly!
Some nights it’s heartbreaking to see some of our regulars sporting cuts and black eyes. Some nights we see them get beaten. Some of these people are some of the gentlest people I know. Some really old! But that doesn’t matter on Skid-row.
In November Kira came up to me. She didn’t want food. She just wanted to cry. Cry, cry and cry some more. Why?
Kira was raped that night. Tell you the truth I didn’t even tell her to call the cops. Women who get raped on Skid-row can’t call the cops. When you don’t have doors and locks to hide behind, you can’t call 911 because you will end up dead the next morning if you do!
Can you blame these people for wanting to be in your neighborhood when the only other place they have left to go is Skid-row?
If you don’t believe me you’re welcome to come see Skid-row with us anytime.
We know and understand the issues you have. But bringing an ordinance to ban street feeding is not the way to go. Actually it’s the worst possible. What we need to do is work on a real solution. Not try to shove the Greater West Hollywood Food Coalition into a parking lot or an indoor facility.
We need more facilities for our homeless population. I mean living facilities not just indoor dining halls. We know you have suggested a different location for the GWHFC. But to suggest that certain people don’t have a right or deserve to live in a particular area is wrong!
Los Angeles is a city of minorities. Some of whom who came here to flee oppression. For a better life and for rights just like everyone else.
How can we be a haven for the oppressed and then suddenly become the oppressor?
This city has a history of working hard to confine our homeless population and mentally ill into Skid-row.
I searched a name in Wikipedia. The answer I got was:
“Use of the word "concentration" came from the idea of using documents confining to one place a group of people who are in some way undesirable.”
The name I used in Wikipedia search was “Concentration camp”…….....
This motion 13-1238 would target the homeless the same way ethnic groups have been singled out for genocide based on common traits.
It isn’t enough that you not support this motion. You need to speak out against it!
I don’t think the people behind this motion fully knew what they were doing. I don’t think they understood the implications either and some are already backing out of it. But there are others who are silently waiting and watching.
Waiting to see your reaction to pursue more bans and laws that would rid this city of its 58,000 homeless population. All in the pursuit of political power and money.
This is why it is so important that you speak out!
Otherwise Hollywood and West Hollywood will go down in history as the start of LA’s homeless purge.
Being tolerant of the existence of your homeless neighbors might truly mean their chance at survival.
I hope you do the right thing!
Mel Tillekeratne
Founder and Leader,
Monday Night Mission
"If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other.”
- Mother Teresa
Saturday, December 21, 2013
Skidrow Cleanup
Skidrow Cleanup, a set on Flickr.
We are a group of volunteers who want to help cleanup Skid Row Los Angeles for the residents.