This letter is written in regards of the Friendship Baptist Church located at 606 Broadway Avenue in Venice, California. It was organized in 1952 by my father, the late Reverend L.C. Clayton in Santa Monica, California. In 1964, the church was located in Venice, California where we are today. The church has been closed for about two years, and it was done without the consent of the congregation. We would like for the church to be open so we may continue to serve God and the community. It’s a non-profit organization, and we would like it to remain as a historical monument in the community.
– Rosie Lodge

Just wanted to take a moment to say how much I enjoyed reading the article “Venice Fruit Tramps,” by Michael McMuffin. Movingly evocative of the most worthy idealistic spirit of kindness and community that characterized Venice in the early 70s.

With deep appreciation,
Joanne Altschuler

Ten Overused Terms and Phrases
to Avoid in the New Year:
1.air quotes
2.down the rabbit hole
3.flip the script
4.literally
5.on the planet
6.the quiet part out loud
7.trifecta
8.under the bus
9.Whack-a-Mole
10.You can’t make this stuff up.

Updates on Vera Davis McClendon Center:
To date there are no scheduled meetings. Her name remains on the side of the sacred revered community space, thank Creator.
Perhaps it was the meeting held on 10/15/24 at Reese Tabor Oakwood Family Park: when the Venice community showed up and there was standing room only. Venice Community had great questions and alas – truth be told: The City of Los Angeles decided to attempt to change the name of the building as it was in the file and recorded as the “Venice Library…” There was zero record of Vera Davis McClendon historical relevance and her name dedication.
Vera Davis McClendon’s well protected legacy was present as were her children, grandchildren and generations yet to arrive… the future holds bright when we get together in a good way.
Traci Park – as most do in government offices – she bends at the will of her white constituents.
She is running for a second term. #OneTermPark
Now if only we can get it together and heal before 1/20/25… Inauguration of the new resident of the White House.
– Lydia Ponce