By Lynne T. Jewell
At the outset of the year, LFIA asked its members to tell us what they love most about living in Los Feliz. “The neighborhood” and “nice” to “talented” neighbors far exceeded any other comments made in the recent responses.
“It’s a close-knit neighborhood,” said one LFIA member.
“I’ve lived in a beautiful house for 45 years,” said a resident who’s belonged to LFIA for over four decades. “I enjoy my neighbors—all of whom are friendly, talented and warm.”
“My neighbors and their concern for the community” was yet another answer.
Let’s face it. Los Feliz is a beautiful and popular place to live. As one respondent said, “I’ve had 26 years of living and loving 90027.”
Other multiple mentions were “location” and “convenience”–close to Los Feliz Village’s retail shops, restaurants and the “wonderful” Los Feliz movie theater. And, thanks in part to the Metro Red Line, it has close proximity to Downtown L.A. Another loves being near Trader Joe’s.
LFIA members also listed Griffith Park, historic architecture, history, trees and diversity as their pride of place. “I love the Observatory, our version of the Eiffel Tower,” shared one long-time LFIA member. Several people simply said “everything.”
True confession: this questionnaire was not without complaints. For instance, one very specific respondent said, “I would love Los Feliz more if left-turn arrows were placed at the corner of Los Feliz Boulevard and Vermont Avenue.” That person is right. LFIA was instrumental in getting the left-hand lane installed and has since been pushing for the badly-needed left-hand signal.
Another person said she likes the restaurants and museums, but NOT the traffic. We hear you.
Nature, greenery, hiking and walking were also close to people’s hearts. One 20-year member said, “I love my walks in the Franklin Hills. I love coyotes talking at night and the owl in my neighbor’s tree.”
Shhh…. The “quiet” of the neighborhood was also mentioned several times. As was “cleanliness” and “good air quality”.
LFIA enjoyed hearing what people have to say about our beloved community. But the local conversation doesn’t have to end here. Particularly during these anxious days during the pandemic restrictions, we’d like to hear from you about acts of kindness taking place in the community. One word, one sentence or a paragraph will do. Tell us your take on living and loving 90027–in good times and bad–by emailing connect@lfia.org.
A version of this column appeared in the April edition of the Los Feliz Ledger.
