:: October 2004 ::

 

Best of L.A.: The Seven Deadly Sins

PRIDE

Words on the Street

Of all of Los Feliz’s amazing offerings—Griffith Park and the Observatory, the Greek Theatre, Mulholland Memorial Fountain, Skylight Books, and Travel Town—the Los Feliz Observer newsletter is one of its best-kept secrets. This is no tri-fold paper throwaway. Published quarterly by the Los Feliz Improvement Association, it is slick, well-written, and tackles issues relevant to most Angelenos’ lives: how to keep neighborhoods free of crime, ensure schools effectively serve our kids, and, more importantly, how to sustain a friendly and supportive community. Past features have included “Crime Ridden Motel on Sunset Will Finally Close,” “What Happens When Councilmember LaBonge Says ‘NO!!!’,” “Marshall High’s Marching Band Needs Support” and the unforgettable “Confessions of a Reluctant Yard Sale Sign Vigilante.” But what is especially impressive about the Observer is its regular nostalgic feature highlighting a significant aspect of the neighborhood’s history. In-depth stories like “Los Feliz: Birthplace of the First Blockbuster” and “1942: Eye on Los Feliz” would make any Angeleno proud. —Teena Apeles

The Los Feliz Observer comes as a benefit of Los Feliz Improvement Association membership; dues are $30 annually.

 

 

Best Small, Manageable Dose of Cute

Compliments of the folks of Sunset’s Meltdown Comics and Collectibles, miniMELT comes to Atwater Village. A welcomed oasis amid the big-box behemoths on the boulevard, this Eastside answer to Giant Robot carries all things cute and poppy. True to its name, the store is small, and its selection is minimal, but at mini MELT it’s not size that matters—it’s about quality. You’ll find funky shirts for the whole family (babies included!), an excellent sampling of children’s books, odd collectibles from Japan, the latest must-have comics and graphic novels and even original art from renowned illustrators. This one-stop wonderland is ideal for locals who find Wacko too overwhelming and Toys ‘R’ Us akin to visiting the neighboring L.A. Zoo. —Teena Apeles

miniMELT, 3151 Los Feliz Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90039, (323) 668-1212.