It’s been two decades since the city of Los Angeles burned. Scenes of violence, frustration and heroism were beamed around the world. Our city, our home was ripped apart by racial tension, unemployment and lawlessness. For those who lived at the epicenter in South LA and Koreatown it was impossible to escape the brutality of those days. Emotions had been simmering for a very long time. In April of 1992 they came to a full boil, with a devastating outcome. You will recall the six days of rioting. 50 people dead. 2000 injured. Fires. Looting. An ugly stain on the reputation of a city named for the angels.

At the time I was an anchor and reporter at KABC in LA. We all watched the sequence of events unfold. Much of the storyline caught on videotape. The scenes played repeatedly. The first event was the infamous beating of Rodney King at the conclusion of a long police pursuit in Lakeview Terrace. People all across the world saw that beating played; as though it was on a loop. Man down. Batons smashing again and again and again. Those LAPD officers were tried for the beating of that black motorist. Exactly 20 years ago today, despite the videotape, those officers were acquitted. The anger slowly crescendoed. Protests started in Simi Valley. Then looters and fires in South LA. Crowds were gathering. I had just walked off the set after the 6pm news. In the newsroom, the bank of TV monitors told the story of a city exploding. Fires. Looting. Years of distrust of law enforcement reaching a feverish pitch.

KABC management was busy, dispatching photographer crews and reporters. All of us started working the phones, working our contacts and doing what journalists do best- hitting the streets to cover the story. At 6:46pm-we began to see just how grim it was.

Those of us still in the newsroom watched as a truck driver pulled into the intersection of Florence and Normandie in South LA. We gasped. We saw what he could not. Reginald Denny – a white truck driver- was unaware of the crowd of men, mostly black, gathered at the corner -angry over the acquitals in the King beating case. Denny tragically drove straight into harm’s way. Helicopter pictures showed him slowly pulling into the intersection, with halting movements, before he realized he was in trouble and tried to turn around. I remember us gathering around the monitors in the newsroom, everyone screaming- ” Don’t do it ! Turn back!” But it was too late. Denny was dragged from the truck cab and beaten within an inch of his life. Once again, cameras captured it all. And I remember for a moment, the sick feeling, almost frozen in time by the inhumane spectacle unfolding on live television. The violence would only escalate from there.

Over the next 6 days, it seemed that was the last time we paused in the newsroom, for days. A few hours for sleep. A few moments for food. There was a renewed sense of purpose in being a journalist during those days. Surviving on little sleep, we took turns going out into the field. The hotspots were South LA and Koreatown. In a dramatic gunbattle, which lead every network newscast, Korean shopkeepers began firing upon looters stealing their merchandise. Pop. Pop. Pop. Like a scene out of the wild west. A mob mentality had gripped the city. A dysfunctional turf war between the mayor’s office, the police department and the communities caught in the middle, was being debated on news programs around the country. On Day Two, I went with a colleague from Channel 7 and two news camera crews to Sunset Boulevard in the Silver Lake area of Hollywood. We began taking videotape from afar of a Circuit City being stripped bare by looters. Smoke filled the night air, spot fires could be seen everywhere and sirens seemed to wail endlessly. As we focused in on a flatbed truck, where a looter had loaded up with electronics, including a new television set, the TV set fell off the truck into the street. That looter looked up and saw us as he ran into the street to recover the set. Furious, he pointed his semi-automatic weapon to shoot us. For what seemed like an eternity, we stared back, then took safety behind an old Impala, while the off duty officer escorting us- screamed at us “To stay down.. stay down! ” The officer took out his less powerful weapon and faced down the gunman. Ultimately, the looter lowered his gun, and ran off. No shots were fired. But it was very frightening and a close call. I will never forget it.

Slowly over time, the city would start to get its footing back. The National Guard was called in. Rodney King- the man whose beating would ignite the riot – would famously plead for calm. Eventually after many people were killed, businesses destroyed, peace would eventually be restored. But the causes and scars would linger for a long time, like a deep wound. There were commissions formed, decrees imposed, and battered communities slowly repaired relationships with each other . Rebuild LA was formed. The power grid between City Hall and the police department shifted. Today, thanks in great measure to the philosophy of community-based policing and the leadership of Chiefs Bratton and Beck, a more open dialogue exists in minority communities. I am happy to report that crime is markedly lower. And minority communities have better relationships and understanding with each other.

On this infamous day in LA history, for those of us old enough to remember, we will pause and remember where we were, how we felt and what we learned. This reporter will remember her youthful impressions of a city gone mad, the challenge of reporting it and a city that fought to right itself. And how she wept for her hometown after a very, very long day.

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I had a most wonderful tour today, courtesy of of the founder of the “Harmony Project.” Dr. Margaret Martin led a group of us through a couple of locations in the inner city, including Frank Del Olmo Elementary School – where youngsters are learning life skills through the study of music. Martin and her team have focused on some of the poorest areas of Los Angeles, including four of the so-called “Gang Zones” of the city. All the studies show, if you give youngsters that one-on-one attention, and include them in a project with the potential to elevate, they have the opportunity to transcend very difficult circumstances. These are children raised in areas where gangs, drugs and extreme poverty are a way of life. Today, the project is helping some 1500 kids in LA – and in Ventura. Martin believes she has developed a template that could be implemented nationally. Last year, Dr.Martin received the prestigious “Presidential Citizens Medal” in Washington D.C. for her exemplary work with Harmony.

My friends and I watched as children from elementary school to middle school age received instruction in their musical education. It was a thing of beauty to see these kids mastering instruments, reading music and delighting in their progress. There was love and structure in the classroom and the joy of achievement on the face of these students. This youth arts program gives kids a sense of purpose; raises self esteem; and builds good citizens. I hope you will read more about their outstanding work in the community.

Harmony Project website: http://www.harmony-project.org/

Some clips of Harmony Project kids practicing:

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Tributes continue to pour in for Dick Clark, who died yesterday of a massive heart attack, at the age of 82. In many ways, it should not have been a shock. The iconic music and television producer had been of declining health since December 2004, when he was stricken by a devastating stroke. But when news of his passing broke yesterday, it just didn’t seem quite possible. The affable television host, with the easy smile and uncanny sense of pop culture — who maintained his boyish good looks and enthusiasm for decades — was gone…

His remarkable career spanned six decades. And I suppose that’s why so many of us felt as though we personally knew him. I didn’t know Dick Clark. I only met him once. But two stories stayed with me all day long. For any kid growing up in the 60′s and 70′s- “American Bandstand” was must-see-TV. In our home, it was the chance to check out the newest dance steps — and in today’s parlance– see what was “trending.” My dad had a strict rule about no loud music in the house. So, when my parents went out and my younger sister and I were babysat by our older siblings, up went the decibel level, and out came the new, imitated dance moves! Many a evening spent dancing on the fireplace hearth– hand held over the head– with a “score” given to “best dancer.” ( This was, of course, decades before “Dancing with the Stars” or “American Idol.”)

My other memory was the at “The American Music Awards.” The awards show was the innovation of Clark. This was the year Toni Braxton was on fire on the music charts. Marc Brown and I were co-hosting for ABC local a pre show special. Clark came up to talk to us before the broadcast. He seemed like a proud papa at the event, but also like an excited kid, regaling us with stories. Ms. Braxton was flaunting an especially revealing outfit, and though she rocked the look- there was concern, it might be a tad too revealing for the broadcast sensors. Clark laughed as he told the story, like a kid, really.. And I suppose, that’s also why we loved him.. his youthful charm was infectious ..

In his words.. ” Age ain’t got nothing to do with how old you are. ”  – Dick Clark
” American Bandstand was the original reality show.” — Dick Clark

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It was great fun to watch “Mad Men” last night! Absence does make the heart grow fonder.
As expected, you could feel the winds of change blowing through this fictionalized ad agency.
The women who usually played the role of dutiful wife, deferential secretary or angelic mother were less compliant last night. Don Draper’s new bride, and former secretary, ( Megan) threw him a surprise birthday party against his wishes. Megan then went on to put on quite a show, as she sang, vamped and danced for her new husband in front of his work colleagues. It was steamy and showed a fierce independent streak.

“Joan” who runs the office, has been out on maternity leave, showed up unexpectedly at the office. She admitted that she missed work – ” Does that sound terrible? ” she asks afraid that her lack of maternal fulfillment would negate her as a woman. She makes it clear to her own controlling  mother that she “IS” returning to work, and her husband cannot order her to stay home. The stirrings of the women’s movement being touched upon in episode one.

The men are still macho – boys will be boys – but you get the feeling, women will be giving them – ” what for? ” in future episodes.

The civil rights movement also being touched upon … As dozen of black Americans show up at the firm, in hopes of getting a job. Some polite and impolite conversation is triggered by their presence. Once again, seems to be setting the scene for subsequent episodes.

We also saw glimpses of the future in the apparel. Bright neon colors, mini skirts. ( That made Megan’s dance all the more suggestive) The mod, counter culture 60′s are seeping their way into the show. It will be interesting to see how ” Mad Men” evolves….. If you missed it last night , no worries. AMCtv.com is streaming the entire episode for free. It’s limited offer … so hurry !

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It’s been nearly a year and a half since a new installment of “Mad Men” aired. The episodic show which is set in the 60′s is an enormous hit for AMC. With smart writing and beautiful people, we are transported into the fictional world of the “Sterling Cooper” Ad Agency. This is an era where the three-martini-lunch was encouraged; office romance a way of life; and women treated like girls, no matter their age or station. The Boys Club was the only club. Women and minorities need not apply. All of this set in the hard driving world of advertising in its golden era. The “Marlboro Man” was created during this time.. Need I say more?

Which brings me to tonight and the 5th season of “Mad Men.” When we last saw Don Draper, the fundamentally flawed ad man, played by Jon Hamm, he has just gotten engaged to his secretary. ( The divorced Draper has a deep secret- which he wears with great complexity )  The agency was spinning out of control on the brink of financial ruin. Some of the women in the office are just beginning to be taken seriously in the workplace. Draper’s Number 2 in the office is his former assistant, Peggy. “Peggy” is played brilliantly by Elizabeth Moss. While Peggy shows promise as an ad executive with a flair for writing winning campaigns she worries she won’t find a husband if she finds a successful career. Such were the times…

From what I’ve read, the new episodes of “Mad Men” will start to take on the seismic shift that occurred in this country in the mid 60′s and beyond: feminism, civil rights, and the anti war movement all part of the script. I personally can’t wait to see how the show’s creator, Matthew Weiner, takes on these watershed moments in history.

But for pure entertainment and visual splendor, I adore the clothing and the sets. For women, the pencil skirts, and pointy-toe high heels. For men, sleek suits, with narrow ties. And the muted colors of the era displayed in the office and the home. I know I will be sitting on the edge of my “S” chair tonight, clutching my Pucci scarf before each scene! (Okay,that was for dramatic effect) but trust me, I can’t wait for the return!

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A special day is kicking off in the City of Angels today. It’s the Latina History Day Conference.

Today, women from all over, will gather to discuss some of the most important issues of the day : politics, the economy and the state of public education. This annual event draws Latina heavy-hitters from all disciplines of the public and private sector. The day-long event includes workshops, speakers and inspiration. Think of it as “Red Bull” for the heart and soul of your career. It celebrates the historic achievements of Latinas. But at the same time, casts an eye to the future. How do we build upon past success? How do we continue to grow and improve in a challenging economy?

The gathering is unique on many levels. It was designed to meet the needs of Latina professionals. Here, women can bond, schmooze and elevate their professional game. Last night we met for a discussion with leaders in local and state politics. I enjoyed leading the discussion at an event which was a warm up to today’s main event. We had a wonderful time! Among the issues discussed were how to continue to grow in a financial climate that fosters feelings of cut backs and austerity; future of children in the public school system and taxes and small business.

It’s a sold out conference. 700 women will gather today. I’m inspired already!

You can learn more at latinas.org.  Enjoy some images and video from last night’s HOPE salon.

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This evening I will take part in a salon. It has nothing to do with beauty, fashion or primping. Quite to the contrary, a salon is a term that originated in France, and means quite literally living room or parlor. It is a conversational gathering. Art historians will tell us a salon includes a select group of artists, intellectuals and politicians who met in a private home for spirited conversation. Many wealthy women presided over salons in France and England since the 17th century. One of those women was American playwright , Gertrude Stein. Picture a living room filled with some of the greatest minds and talents of the day: Picasso and Matisse to name a few.

And now we dissolve back to today… Our salon is taking place Thursday, March 8, in downtown Los Angeles. It falls on the eve of the 21st Annual Latina History Day Conference. We will focus on some of the weighty topics of the day: Women, Politics and the Economy. It will be my pleasure to gently guide this intellectual conversation with some heavy hitters in the world of business, and politics. It’s the ultimate “spa day” for the brain — kind of a female ” think tank.” If you would like to learn more about this conference visit www.latinas.org or follow on twitter @hopelatinas #LHD2012.

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“The Artist” was the big winner last week at the Academy Awards. Despite its five awards, including Best Picture, Best Actor and Best Director — I had no burning desire to see it. However, this weekend I relented and went to a local movie theatre and watched this film, which won the affection of Oscar.  I wasn’t alone. According to Box Office Mojo, now playing in 1,756 theaters — “The Artist” finally cracked the top 10 with a 3.6 million gross.

Now back to the essence of the film. The very premise of the film seems to fly against everything we know today in modern film. It was shot in black and white, silent; with occasional subtitles and a lovely musical score. But it was the absence of audio that served as a masterful tool in story telling. It was so quiet in the theatre, I could actually hear the twirl of a straw, the rustling of popcorn from my neighbor in the theatre. At times I found myself straining to read lips — but in the end, just surrendered to the quiet. This beautiful story of joy and sorrow, cast against the backdrop of Old Hollywood, explores the age-old themes of love, loss and redemption.

When the movie begins, we are dropped into the success-dizzying world of George Valentin (Jean Dujardin) — who is the toast of the town in silent film. Rich, handsome and famous — he is everywhere. But when he refuses to change with the times — and speak — he hits a downward spiral. His co-star, Peppy Miller (Berenice Bejo) — is sweet and a great foil to Dujardin. And then there’s “Uggie” (the dog) — talk about a scene-stealer! The film takes us through the transition into “talkies” and thru the financial implosion of the Wall Street Crash.

But mostly we travel through the human emotions of Valentin. I found the film to be utterly charming. And in a time when films so often are overwhelmed by special effects, it was wonderfully one note; wonderfully understated.

I hope you see “The Artist.” It’s a film without sound, but fills your heart like poetry.

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By the time you have read this– practically the whole world knows  that “The Artist” cleaned up at the Academy Awards. This silent film left guests at the Kodak Theatre speaking in superlatives last night. The French production, which was shot right here in LA… won five Academy Awards. I enjoyed watching the Oscar telecast, as I always do. It’s glam, and maintains more of an ” Old Hollywood” feel, which I think  can be refreshing.

But that was Sunday. On Saturday I visited the extraordinary exhibition of my friend, Victor Hugo Zayas. Zayas’ work is described as a “synthesis of many styles: modern, expressionistic, impressionistic, abstract and figurative.” The Laguna Art Museum is presenting an overview of Zayas’ work, representing twenty years of his remarkable career. My friends and I were honored to be there at the opening last Saturday. Please make the visit, you will be lifted…!

On Friday night, I enjoyed the evening at the Beverly Wilshire, where the National Hispanic Media Coalition held its annual gala for media advocacy. Stars from the large and small screen mingled and swapped stories, laughs and leads. It was a great glam night — and we even had an Oscar nominee in our midst — the very talented, and handsome lead male actor, Demian Bichir. Bichir gave a haunting performance as an undocumented worker trying to provide for his son in a new country. He presented to the director of the film, “A Better Life” — Chris Weitz.

Just wanted to share some snapshots of a great three days. Where the common thread was art… And our longing to express ourselves creatively on film, canvass and paper. Here’s to “The Artist” in us all!

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I wish people would stop trying to instill controversy into Whitney Houston’s funeral on Saturday. Isn’t there enough controversy over the manner in which she died?

I know many people in Newark wanted some kind of public memorial. It would’ve lifted spirits in the beleaguered city. But it’s not going to happen. Those are the wishes of the family, and they must be respected.

The pastor of the New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, Joe Carter, also tried to convince the Houston family to hold a public memorial at the Prudential Center, a gleaming new arena in the middle of a city with a reputation for being dangerous. ( Whitney sang in Reverend Carter’s church choir as a child). Critics say the Reverend had selfish motives for pushing a public memorial; that he wanted to put on a grand show to promote his church and his town.

I don’t think so. Rev. Carter told a journalist friend of mine that in the past week, every time he turned on the TV set and they were talking about Whitney, they were speculating about drug and alcohol abuse, and not talking about all the good she had done for the community; the thousands of dollars she gave to worthwhile causes in Newark and Orange. The Reverand hoped that a grand memorial would change the narrative, as it did for Michael Jackson when a huge memorial service was held at Staples Center after his death. I was at that event, and I can tell you that it practically canonized Jackson. There was no talk of drug abuse, propofol or Conrad Murray- just emotional, heartfelt speeches which shed a different light on Michael and the tragic circumstances surrounding his death.

Having been at Staples that day, I can understand Rev. Carter’s desire for a large public gathering. In my opinion, he was only advocating for what he thought was right. As it turns out, one camera will be allowed into the church on Saturday- tomorrow- and the ceremony will be broadcast live around the world. Whitney’s godmother, Aretha Franklin will perform. So will Stevie Wonder. Kevin Costner, Whitney’s costar in “The Bodyguard,” will speak. But the audience will include only invited guests. In the end, I think it’s the best compromise.

The other controversy, even if it sounds a bit contrived, is the disagreement over New Jersey Governor Chris Christie’s decision to have flags in the state fly at half staff on Saturday to honor the memory of Whitney Houston. Some people say it’s too high an honor for someone who died under a cloud of drug and alcohol abuse.

Why is this an issue?

To best illustrate my point, let me tell you about a CNN report that aired on Friday morning. The correspondent went to a V.A. center in Orange, N.J. He couldn’t find ONE veteran who objected to the flags being flown at half staff! One veteran pointed to an elementary school across the street from the V.A. center to which Whitney had donated money. Another veteran said, “All you have to do is look at the way she sang the National Anthem at the Super Bowl during the Gulf War, and you’ll know why the flags will be flown at half staff.” Well said. End of controversy, as far as I’m concerned.

Fans of Whitney Houston, including me, will have to be content with watching the memorial on TV, and enjoying the performances and anecdotes being broadcast. I’m out the door early tomorrow – but the Tivo is set to watch it.

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