As we enter Memorial Day weekend, I hope you will join me in paying respects to the brave men and women of the US military who gave everything serving our country.
I am the proud daughter of a US Army veteran. My father served during the Cold War on bases around the world. As a teletype operator, he held the tragic distinction of being the first on his base to learn of President John F. Kennedy's assassination, a moment that forever marked his life. After his military service, my dad went to school on a GI bill before embarking on a career at GTE, where he was an active member of the Communications Workers of America.
For me, this holiday has personal significance. We buried my dad on Memorial Day in 2005, right next to his favorite uncle, who died serving during WW2.
Although he is no longer here, I often hear my dad’s voice reminding me that fighting for what is right is always the right thing. Despite his disdain for politicians, I know my dad would be proud to honor the sacrifices of so many veterans.
Park's Pick
This week's Park's Pick is Village for Vets, an exceptional organization dedicated to filling critical service gaps for homeless and at-risk veterans in Greater Los Angeles. Village for Vets helps veterans in need access a broad range of services, including housing, benefits, and programs offered at the VA campus. We are lucky to have Village for Vets as a partner in solving veteran homelessness! You can learn more about them here.
Fleet Week Venice Takeover!
For the very first time, CD11 is hosting LA Fleet Week celebrations on the Westside! We will begin Saturday morning with a heartwarming tribute as we place thousands of flags at the Los Angeles National Cemetery. Then, we’ll head to the Venice Boardwalk for a day full of camaraderie, community, reflection, and music in honor of our military men and women and their families.
This free event is all about bringing together families, friends, and communities, so everyone is invited!
Wishing You A Safe And Memorable Weekend
CARE+ Cleanups
This past week, we conducted three CARE+ cleanups and two intensive overnight cleanups on the Venice Boardwalk. These operations focus on sanitation and also provide a platform for engagement and support for the unhoused at the beach. As we kick off tourist season, my priority remains ensuring that our beach remains safe and accessible for locals and visitors and getting resources to those in need.
In the City’s 2023/24 budget, we secured a dedicated CARE+ coastal team. Although this doesn't provide a complete solution to homelessness, conducting these cleanups ensures a safer and cleaner environment for the entire community.
'Inside The Issues' With Alex Cohen
This week, I appeared on Inside the Issues with Alex Cohen, where we discussed homeless veterans, my partnership with the VA, and the hard work of delivering housing and services to veterans in need. To view our in-depth discussion, click on the video below.
If you know of a veteran in need of housing, support, or other resources, please contact our office.We can help!
Mark your calendars for our Public Safety Fair on June 10th at Simon Meadow in Pacific Palisades. Bring friends and family to meet experts from community organizations and city departments and learn how to keep yourself safe in emergency situations.
Westchester Senior Center Sock Hop
Don’t miss out on the Westchester Senior Center Sock Hop! The fun is on Wednesday, May 31, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Adopt-A-Pet
Say hello to our lovely Pet of the Week, Roxy! Just three years old, Roxy is full of energy and filled with enough love to light up your life. Known for her wiggle-worm antics, she has a playful spirit and loves spending time with her human friends. As affectionate as they come, she'll fill your days with joy and warmth. You can meet Roxy at our East Valley Center.
