In the late 1950’s, 1960’s and 70’s, ranch homes and housing tracts were the rage. And so were backyard swimming pools. Private pools were an impressive neighborhood novelty, coveted by those who could afford one and a true measure of middle-class ascendance. Above-ground swimming pools, called Doughboys, were one popular, but more pedestrian, option. However,…
I recently came across this recording by American folk singer Woody Guthrie telling the tale of the Flood of 1934. In it, he talks about the local towns besieged, the lives lost, and some of what happened during the disaster. His unique voice and singing is/was a touching memorial to a devastating historical event that…
L.A. is a city of neighborhoods. Like a giant patchwork quilt. You can live your whole life here and never see most of them. It’s just impossible. But each has its own history, personality, and, best of all, surprises. And those are everywhere. Like Hoover Walk and The Prospect Studios, tucked among a set of…
Abert’s Towhee is a bright-eyed visitor to this accidental, man-made, and now essential resting spot for migratory birds traveling along the Pacific Flyway. How the Salton Sea was formed and its melancholy history—particularly as a short-lived, mid-century vacation resort—is worthy of note . . . and perhaps even a little road trip. The lake…
Long Beach has islands. Four of them. And you can clearly see them as you fly into the airport (LGB) or traverse Ocean Avenue. But these are artificial islands. Wonderful fakes, designed to vibe palm trees, waterfalls, blue-and-white condos and more. At night, the islands sparkle in Long Beach Harbor with colorful lights. Amazingly, they…
