Great idea: Report cards for LA policy makers!

We Californians (especially Angelenos) are accustomed to put downs from New Yorkers--We are used to the hearing and reading the ill-formed stereotypes...you know the ones.
Claremont McKenna College (CMC) is well known for educating future leaders in economics, business and government. Its alumni include founders of mega-financial institutions, accomplished corporate CEOs, and prominent political figures. It is less well known that CMC is also among the top institutions in the United States in social innovation education.
In a recent article in the New York Times on the mansionization that is taking place in some neighborhoods here, the journalist observed:
"Los Angeles has always been known for its tear-it-down, build-it-up methods, to the concern of preservationists. The intensity of the current opposition [to mansionization] has challenged the notion that this is a city with little interest in preserving its past."
Southern California is one of the hottest real estate markets in the country. We read stories daily about investors from around the world buying property here, often for cash.
So, it was heartening to read today in the San Fernando Valley Business Journal that in December of last year, long time Santa Clarita residents and nature lovers Bob and Wendy Stevenson donated two 4.91 acre lots to the City of Santa Clarita for open space. This is their second property donation. In 2007, the couple donated 16.3 acres to the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy.
Waiting in a long line for the valet to deliver your car is generally not a pleasant experience.
But last Thursday night, after having attended the LA Chamber of Commerce's annual dinner at which Wallis Annenberg received the Civic Medal of Honor Award (stay tuned for another blog regarding this well deserved honor), I experienced a magical moment while waiting for my car.
Mia Lehrer, the landscape designer who, with her firm Mia Lehrer+Associates, has been such a visionary force behind the revitalization of the Los Angeles River (and other major projects), is now creating bracelets inspired by the river.
As promised, here is Part 2 of organizations in the Los Angeles area who are mentoring girls, boys and teens and helping to ensure their professional and personal success:
A Place Called Home
An organization that provides children and youth in South Central Los Angeles with love, safety, enrichment training and opportunities through educational programs, counseling and mentoring.