Issue: Winter 2011-2012

From the Editor

I didn't realize what an impact celebrating the magazine's 25^th anniversary would generate.  I soon learned that such an anniversary, especially in Hollywood, is a big deal.

So when Oscar and I were also recognized with the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce's prestigious "Hollywood Star Award" at its Entertainment Industry Luncheon in November, it was very hard to bring into my reality.  This was followed by the presentation of a City Council Proclamation before the Los Angeles City Council. Realizing that it just doesn't get much better in the world of community service is quite a reality adjustment.

The question where do we go from here? arises.  Well, for us, the answer is "nowhere."  You could say that we have arrived.  As for Discover Hollywood, however, we both still believe that the sky's the limit.  While the recognition for our work from the Chamber means a great deal, what we hear from our readers, both those who live here as well as visit, is what keeps us going day in and day out.  Keith Johnson called from Seattle.  He was bringing 50 people to Hollywood to see Cirque du Soleil's Iris.  Could we provide 50 copies of our magazine to help them experience Hollywood during their 3 day stay?

Our locals telling us that they keep the magazine on their coffee table, next to the phone, or, after reading it from cover to cover, pass it along to visiting friends and relatives fulfills my wish to be able to take everyone by the hand and show them my Hollywood-the Hollywood that's fascinated me for the past 25 years and more.

I joke that "there are a million stories in 'Naked City'", stealing a line from a long forgotten TV show, and in Hollywood there are many more waiting to be told.

Don Seligman, president of the Los Feliz Improvement Association, and author of the History of Los Feliz and an upcoming book on stars in the Silent Era, writes about the first "Magic Kingdom"-actually in East Hollywood where Walt Disney and his brother, Roy started what would become a cultural phenomenon.

Then there's Andrew Ross' story "Working Like a Dog in Hollywood." It began as an amusing title and Andrew filled in the details.  I'm thrilled to welcome him as one of our writers.  It's a warm and fun story for the holidays.

Lastly, Shauna McClure returns in this issue with her article on two important Roman Catholic religious communities-one a cloistered convent below the famed Hollywood sign.  There are those who keep the faith (that they will be discovered) and those who just keep the faith.  At the other end of that religious spectrum is the story of the Immaculate Heart Community who were part of a cultural revolution.  It's a story about inspiration and fortitude-perfect for the New Year.

Which brings me back to a new beginning. What will it happen in 2012?  Who knows?  Bring it on!