Walkabout downtown Los Angeles

Dodger Trolley and the Game

2008-08-13T08:21:00.001-07:00

Last night we took the Dodger Trolley to watch the game against the Philadelphia Phillies. With one out in the ninth Andre Ethier singled home Russell Martin to beat the Phillies, 4-3.

Both the game and the trolley were a success.

Dodger and Aggie visit a new park "Vista Hermosa"

2008-08-09T13:36:00.000-07:00

Last night after work we all visited the new park in Downtown L.A. "Vista Hermosa" park. Its located just West of Beaudry on 1st street. The park is huge...really big with lots of great landscaping. In addition to the great amenities such as, picnic tables and benches, trees, restrooms and a water feature it boasts one of the best views of downtown L.A.

Lakers Win game 5

2008-06-16T23:21:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Dodger and I took a long walk to Staples Center to catch the scene before Game 5 of the NBA Playoffs. Unfortunately we got there after the game had started but we were able to take some photos of the ESPN Fan Zone.

My only problem with visiting Staples is that their security thinks they own the entire block. I was incorrectly told that there is no public sidewalk on either side of Chick Hearn Drive. That is Wrong! There is always a public easement 10 feet from the curb in. Regardless, Staples Security and an LAPD officer gave me the boot.

If you go and they won't let you visit with your dogs tell them there is a public sidewalk and you can stay there as long as you want.

Running for DLANC Board

2008-05-19T09:54:00.000-07:00

As some of you know, I've decided to run for a position on the DLANC Board as the Resident Director of the Bunker Hill area. After careful thought and consideration I believe this opportunity is the best way to express my feels and those of other downtown residents as to how to make downtown a more livable environment.

Thank you for your consideration and support on Election Day June 12, 2008.

Dodger's Close-Up

2008-05-13T23:28:00.000-07:00

When not galavanting around downtown L.A., you can find Dodger wrapped up and cozy on the couch. Although we've been slow in updating the page, these last few months have been filled with so many fun events around town. Not forgetting all the great Dog Walk Downtown L.A. events.

Dodger at the Los Angeles Marathon

Hanging out on 6th and Flower

Taiwan Fest-LA at Union Station (May10, 2008)

Who moved my bacon?

2008-02-16T19:17:00.000-08:00

Is something better just because it's different?

I'm the first to admit I'm taken by all the changes that's occurred in downtown Los Angeles these past few years. Like many dt residents I've had a connection to this area long before Staples Center and the loft/condo boom. That said I'm glad to see all the new shops and services opening up. But today I had to find one of my all time dt favorites. Over the past year or so what used to be a common sight in the fashion district has disappeared.

Yes! I am talking about the bacon wrapped hotdog cart. Regardless of which side of the (health code) fence you sit, anyone who's ever spent time in the garment district of downtown L.A. has smelled, seen and most likely fallen for those street side treats the bacon wrapped hotdogs. Over the past year or so there numbers have fallen. Stiffer enforcement by the Public Health Department and the LAPD has driven most of the bandit carts off the main streets. In their place are "licensed" hot dog stands which I'd imagine have very nice and healthy dogs but they don't sell bacon wrapped hotdogs. Lucky for me, today was a good day. Yes, yes, I found me a bacon dog stand.

They say the smell of food can bring back fond memories from your past. Well, for me, downtown will always smell like a sizzling bacon wrapped hotdog.

Grand Opening

2008-02-16T01:57:00.000-08:00

It seems like downtown Los Angeles is changing so fast. New Bars and restaurants are opening up everyday and a few weeks ago downtown welcomed a new pet supply shop. Pussy and Pooch on the corner of 5th and Main formally opened its doors with a grand opening bash.

Dodger and Aggie had a great time meeting new friends and trying some gourmet doggie chow. With such new additions downtown is starting to feeling more like a neighborhood.

New markets and old friends

2008-01-22T20:11:00.000-08:00

Now that the holidays are behind us, things at work and home are getting back to normal. Early morning walks and late afternoon potty runs fill most of the week but on the weekends it’s nice to break up the routine.

This past weekend we were treated to the first downtown L.A. fleamarket. Although it was a tad small, clearly the framework of something bigger was in place. Kudos to the organizers as we saw countless dogs at the “swap meet” and their attendance seemed welcomed.

Earlier in the month it was great to catch up with some friends and kick off the New Year at another Downtown L.A. Dog Walk. On this note, everyone is encouraged to attend next weeks Park and Recreations Department 2008 Community Needs Assessment Meeting at the DWP Building. Details below.

CITY OF LOS ANGELES DEPARTMENT OF RECREATION AND PARKS
2007 CITYWIDE COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT COMMUNITY WORKSHOP

got park?
need park?
want park?
YES □
NO □
Come and make your voices heard!!

Wednesday, January 30, 2008 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
Department of Water and Power (DWP Building)
111 North Hope Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012

Dog Walk Downtown Los Angeles

Downtown L.A. Flea Market

November wrap

2007-11-28T20:50:00.000-08:00

November 14, 2007

Dodger and Aggie joined over a dozen downtown dogs and their owners for another Downtown L.A. Dog Walk. Making new friends and visiting new sights, Dodger and the pack made their way across town from Pershing Square to a farmers market at the Santee Village.

"Seasons Greetings" at Pershing Square where the "pack" met before hitting the streets.

Spot Dodgers pal Wonton help lead the pack!

Never too proud to beg for free food Dodger waits his turn for some snacks.

Dog Walkers at the Santee Farmers Market.

Next walk is on December 12, 2007 at 6 pm.

On a seperate note:
Dodger spotted his "likeness" in this weeks Downtown News. We're sure it was just a mere coindicence but nevertheless the similarites were appreciated.

Bark or treat

2007-11-01T22:35:00.000-07:00

Last night as most suburban neighborhoods were filled with the sights and sounds of toddlers and kids in their Halloween costumes; here in downtown L.A., a motley crew of doggie owners met up at the Lofty Dog for a Howl-0-ween party.

Cabrini and her gang at the Lofty Dog filled the night with music, food, portrait photographers and puppy treats. As you can see by the photos everyone had a fun night and the doggies all looked great.

Catch all of the photos in the "Photos Shop"

(Dodger - Superman, Wonton "making a new friend")

more Dodger and Wonton

Dodger and Isis

"Lettermen" Aggie and her new fluffy friend

"Dog at work"

Dogs and their costumed owners

Louis Vuitton and Takashi Murakami at the L.A. MOCA

2007-10-29T17:32:00.000-07:00

For one night we stepped into the world of high fashion and fine art at the opening night of the Takashi Murakami show at the Los Angeles MOCA (Museum of Contemporary Art). The opening nights gala featured a DJ, bar, dancing and the artist himself. Needless to say, we also stopped in at the Louis Vuitton shop for a look; and yes, a few hours later we were a few bags heavier and a buck or two poorer.

Oh what a night!

A sculpture from the exhibit and Murakami signing autographs for his adoring fans.

Dog park sighting?

2007-10-24T21:35:00.000-07:00

With all the flap City Hall is getting about the lack of oversight at the Departement of Parks and Recreations of millions of dollars collected in Quimby fees, looks like the Downtown News may have hit the nail on the head with this weeks Urban Scrawl . Doesn't look like a dog park is coming soon to downtown.

Urban Scrawl

First rain

2007-10-13T00:29:00.000-07:00

Tonight Dodger and Aggie had to face their first rains since moving to downtown. Thankfully armed with their new doggie rain coats business was conducted as usual.

1st Downtown L.A. Dog Walk was a success!!

2007-10-10T22:53:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all those who came out and walked with us from Pershing Square to Maguire Gardens. It was great to see over a dozen downtown neighbors and their many dogs transform both Pershing Square and Maguire Gardens into an impromptu dog park.

See you all next month for another Downtown L.A. Dog Walk.
2nd Wednesday of the month.
Next walk: Nov. 14 @ 6:00 pm at Pershing Square
Walk route and other details TBA

For more photos of the event see the "Photo Shop" link

Special thanks to:
Wonton the (213) Dog
Blogdowntown
The Loftydog
DLANC
Downtown News

Meeting up at Pershing Square

Walking down 5th Street to Maguire Gardens

Little Tokyo's frozen yogurt war heats up!

2007-10-10T00:10:00.000-07:00

Loyalties challenged? Today we went for our weekly walk through Little Tokyo to get a cup of frozen yogurt. As usual we made our way to Cefiore to get some Raspberry+Pomegranate yogurt. As we arrived and to our surprise the line and crowds we normally see were gone, (a disclaimer has to be said that we dropped in about 10 minutes before closing tonight) but across the street a packed house filled the new Pinkberry. What does this mean for Cefiore? Only time will tell but it should be noted that Cefiore laid down the gauntlet first in the Downtown News calling out Pinkberry.

Regardless Dodger had his fill and left happy!

vs. yummy!

Two Days Left!!

2007-10-08T12:25:00.000-07:00

DOWNTOWN DOG WALK

Only two days until Dodger and Aggie get to hang out with new downtown doggie buddies at Pershing Square for the 1st "Downtown Dog Walk" Hopefully this will be the start of many monthly walks bringing downtown residents and their dogs onto the street. See the listing in this weeks Downtown News.

See you all there!

More Dog Activity In Downtown
News Brief
This Wednesday, the Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council will host a Downtown dog walk. Local residents are invited to meet Oct. 10 at 6:30 p.m. at Pershing Square, 532 S. Olive St., with their four-legged friends for a communal walk through the neighborhood. The event is part of an effort to encourage City Hall to allocate space for an off-leash dog park in Downtown Los Angeles.

Pershing Square

Grand Festival

2007-09-30T22:42:00.001-07:00

Another day and another free downtown festival. Today we headed up Grand Avenue to catch the "Grand Ave., Festival". Lots of cool music, exhibits and FOOD vendors. We even ran across Cabrini from "the Loftydog" on our way into the festival.

Artwalk and Yappy Hour - 9-13-2007

2007-09-14T17:45:00.001-07:00

Last night Dodger went on a long walk to catch some galleries at the Downtown Artwalk. The Artwalk is held on the 2nd Thursday of every month along the old Bank District and Gallery Row in downtown L.A.

After a long walk (walk > 1.5 miles) Dodger went to get some refreshments at the Loftydog's "Yappy Hour".

Overall the night was a blast, Dodger finally got to meet Wonton (213)Dog in person and made some other new friends.

Dodger & Wonton

Dodger's Encounter with Groomer Snoop

2007-09-07T23:13:00.001-07:00

Over Labor Day weekend, Dodger and fam drove up to SF to visit Grammy and Mum and Pop's friends. A few hours into our drive, our brake lights indicate that the brakes needed to be changed. Gasp! On a Saturday before Labor Day . . . how will we return to LA? At long last, our GPS pointed the way to a Midas that could take us. With temps nearly 100F and a wait of 4-5 hours for the brakes to be done, Mum and Pop dropped Dodger and Aggie off at the Petco across the street for grooming. Pop wanted to watch the movie, "SuperBad" in a superbad way so Petco being a few doors down from the movie theater was ideal. Yet Mum was worried about the Snoop Dog-esque groomer complete with gold teeth and and multiple tattoos including teardrops under his left eye (Doesn't that mean his victims did not fare well at some point???).

15 minutes into the movie, Mum gets a call. It's Snoop and he is having a difficult time with Dodger. He shared, "Aggie is doing great, but Dodger is screaming at the top of his tiny lungs everytime we open the crate door." Snoop said he would try to "talk" to Dodger, but wanted to warn Mum that Dodger may not get groomed for fear of being bit by our 7lb mini dotson.

As tough as Snoop looks, he couldn't handle our problem child? Wow, that speaks volumes as to how annoying Dodger can be when he wants to be . . .
A movie later, Mum and Pop, along with other doggie parents, sit in the Petco lounge anxiously awaiting the return of their babies. As each dog is picked up by their respective parents, the groomer raves about how well-behaved their dogs were, and how fantastic their dog did. Yet when Snoop appeared, he did not have such glowing reviews of Dodger. With his hands on his hips, he told Mum and Pop what a naughty boy Dodger was. He did rave out Aggie but said that "Dodger wouldn't have any of it and he did not do well."

You're "it"

2007-08-28T00:36:00.000-07:00

Wonton, hope you are well. Here's my response to your post on (213) Dog Look forward to smellin' ya at the next Artwalk.

All the best,

Dodger

1. Your age?
3.5 human years

2. Your age when came to live with your people?
Five 1/2 weeks

3. What color is the collar you’re wearing right now?
None, I tend to eat them when they are left on after my walks. I insist on harnesses only!

4. Who is your favorite person other than the people you live with?
Both grandmas and grandpop

5. How much do you weigh?
0.535 stones, but who's counting right?

6. Most expensive thing you’ve ever chewed up?
Red leather Coach collar

7. Do you like other Dogs?
I'm not really a dog, person. Balls, balls, balls, yes!

8. Who is your best non-human friend?
My big sis' Aggie and buddy Munchkin

9. Squeaky Toys or Tennis Balls?
Soccer balls, tennis balls, squeaky toys and anything someone else has.

10. Do you like to be brushed?
Nope

11. Peanut Butter or Cheese?
Peanut Butter, grapes and tomato

12. Do your people cut your toenails?
Ever heard of a howling banshee?

13. Any formal education?
Nope, ain't ignorance bliss!

14. Couch potato or Energizer Bunny?
I'm the Barry Bonds of mini-doxy's

15. What are some nicknames your people call you?
Poop boy & Dodger boy

16. What is your best trick?
Stealing balls from big dogs when they are not looking

17. Do you like kitties?
Yes, over easy or furryside up

18. What did you have for breakfast?
Dog food and for dinner? Dog food!

19. Can you hunt (aka have you ever killed anything living)?
Nope

20. When & why was the last time you went to the V.E.T.?
Two months ago to get my nails done...grrr

21. Where do you sleep at night?
In my deluxe doggie pen with Aggie

22. Do you like to swim?
Yet to try, but don't think I'll like it if it's anything like taking a bath

23. Can you make puppies?
Woke up one day a bit lighter. Know what I mean?

24. Your favorite place to visit?
Grandpop's yard

25. Do you give kisses?
Yes

26. Can you potty on command?
Command? We don't needs no stinkin' command!

Dodger and Gunshot Noise

2007-08-26T13:46:00.001-07:00

"What's with Dodger and 'gunshot' noise?" Good question. We recently discovered why dogs should avoid being outside during fireworks when we ventured onto a "John Hancock" movie set on Figueroa and Flower streets. The set included emergency vehicles and traffic in a crash and "shootout" scene reminiscent of the movie, "Heat." During the take, costumed actors, depicting police officers, fire fighters, innocent bystanders and obviously "bad guys" engaged in a "shootout" in the midst of all the crashed vehicles. Once the shooting started, Dodger immediately attempted to run for cover and ran all the way home while still on leash! (We now have figured out that Dodger knows his way home.) He was traumatized for a few days thereafter as demonstrated by his weariness to large buses during his walks. But, being the City Dog he is, he has become accustomed to these silly movie sets and has resumed to pooping right along the curb, just as a large bus zooms by. For Dodger, it simply allows for some wind on his face while he is taking care of business . . .

Waking Up Toys R Us and Journeymen Shoots

2007-08-26T12:52:00.001-07:00

This morning, Dodger awoke to an entire commerical set (for "Toys R Us") around the corner on Flower and Wilshire Blvd. Before we ventured onto the set, Dodger and I, checked about whether there would be "gunshot" noise with the overweight, silver-haired motorcycle officer "manning" the part of the street that led to the shoot. Answered in the negative, we proceeded to join the captured audience of the shoot. With a crane and a director behind a bullhorn, "extras" (dressed office clothes and police officer costumes) were running down Wilshire after looking up at the building. Behind the used for this sequence, there were fire and SWAT trucks and LAPD vehicles in crash scenes complete with costumed "extras" checking their Blackberries and chatting on their cell phones waiting their turn. The scene involved a Giant Baby that is walking down the street who drops his pacifier which causes everybody on the street to stop and run. Dodger, having spent time in San Francisco (from which his Mum hails) simply rolled his eyes and thought, "Another typical morning in LA!" and went about his business. Keep your eyes peeled for that commercial!

Speaking of San Francisco, or "The City," Dodger noticed on the way home that folks were setting up for another shoot "Journeymen," a television series set in 1970s San Francisco on 6th and Grand. There were classic 1970s cars that were shipped in for the shoot and even two San Francisco Cable Cars! The streets and the storefront of "Starbucks" was used in the shoot! While watching the goings on of the shoot, Dodger was approached by film crew workers who played with him. One even says he has a long-haired Dachschund at home. Dodger wonders, "Maybe she's a hottie . . . "

Misdoggiemeanor

2007-08-22T08:33:00.001-07:00

Traveling home from class last night, the hubby explained to me over the phone that he now knew "who the brain of the operations is." He said, "Dodger may be the naughty one, but Aggie is definitely the brains of the operation." Asked how he ventured upon this conclusion, he witnessed Aggie poking her head into a plastic bag that he had just used as a trash bag for grape skins and seeds. Aggie was definitely scavenging, and her loyal, but ineffective "lookout" was peering behind her to see what they were working so hard to loot. I wasn't there, but imagining the scene was hilarious.

In canine court, Aggie "the Brain" and Dodger "Trooper" would no doubt be convicted of a "misdoggiemeanor" or misdemeanor. However, the Brain would have put up a decent defense making a compelling argument about it being "abandoned" property. Knowing Ags, she'd put up a good fight with smarts and all. Dodger, clearly not the brain behind the scandal, however, would have no defense as an accomplice and a co-conspirator. Unfortunately, he was out snoozing the day they handed out high IQs. Certainly one of the spokes of the conspiracy wheel would point to our choco-colored furry (but bald-scalped) friend. There goes that archeology scholarship . . .

Tofu Festival - 8-19-07

2007-08-20T00:52:00.000-07:00

Dodger visits the Little Tokyo Tofu Festival.

Phil-Am Convention 223, 2007

2007-08-14T18:27:00.000-07:00

Phil-Am Convention and Expo, Los Angeles Convention Center

Field trip 224, 2007

2007-08-14T13:42:00.000-07:00

Dodger visits the new state park in Chinatown.