2000 Community Awards

The ceremony was held on Sunday, September 17, 2000 at Ramona Hall in Highland Park.
Please read the descriptions of our 2000 winners and if you’re in the area, go take a look.
Sorry, not all winners have a corresponding photograph.

6421 Crescent St. in Garvanza
Built: Circa 1890
This charming turn of the century Victorian cottage replete with fishscale shingles, dentils, medallions, and spindels received the award for major improvements. The multi-colored paint scheme turned this house into a shining example of what can be accomplished with care and creativity.

Dept. of Water & Power Substation No. 2, 225 N. Avenue 61 in Highland Park
Built: 1916 Architect Frederick L. Roehrig
This Greek Revival power distribution station is an early example of DWP's ongoing effort to build utilitarian structures that are architectural assets to their communities. Designated Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument No. 558, the building has recently been repainted and relandscaped. This 2000 award is in recognition of the DWP's stewardship of this architectural gem.

Ollie Tract, 199 South Avenue 57 in Highland Park
Built: 1907
This large property, with its Craftsman house and park-like grounds, was recently landscaped with drought tolerant plants to fill in between 19th century oak trees. Designated Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument No. 377, it is a reminder of the rural past of Highland Park. The efforts to keep this historic treasure intact are richly deserving of this 2000 award.

Albertson's Store, 131 W. Avenue 45 (at Figueroa St)
Built: 1960
Rather than refurbishing this 1960 supermarket, the owners decided to enhance the exterior with a new color scheme and landscaping. The character-defining features of the building, such as the zig-zag roofline, were preserved. The formerly barren parking lot was landscaped with native sycamores and oaks. Two palm trees were relocated to flank the Avenue 45 entrance. Albertson's award is for the preservation of this classic example of mid-twentieth century design.

524 N. Avenue 66 in Garvanza
Built: 1904
This Craftsman house is highlighted by a large second story gable set above an attractive arroyo stone porch. A pleasing green paint job set off by white and red trim was carefully planned to accentuate the architectural elements of the house. This attention to detail and a well-maintained landscape add to the overall charm of this winner.

332 N. Avenue 66 in Garvanza
Built: 1911 Architects Train and Williams
This Craftsman house was designed by the architecture firm of Train and Williams, who received commissions for a number of homes in the area including the Hathaway Home for Children. The house features elongated shingles, double-hung windows, a low-pitched roof, and a restored pergola. The award is in recognition of the continued maintenance of this Highland Park landmark.

322 N. Avenue 56 in Highland Park
Built: 1903
This quaint little turn of the century cottage is crowned by a simple hipped roof and surrounded by a colorfully landscaped yard. A white picket fence completes the picture of a well cared for home that deserved the award for sustained maintenance.

405 N. Avenue 53 in Highland Park
Built: 1912
This 1912 Craftsman, replete with elongated shingles, wide overhanging eaves, and casement windows, seems to be a part of the bluff on which it sits. The owner's diligent work and continuing maintenance have made the view toward the house picturesque. It is this continuing care that earned the owners the award.

120 N. Avenue 60 in Highland Park
Built: 1902
This turn of the century cottage is embellished by Victorian-style posts and fretwork. A beautiful blue paint job, offset by white trim, makes this an eye-catching house. A well cared for yard, highlighted by a covered wood well and several beautifully maintained roses, add up to a strong sense of pride which earns the award for a job well done.

5507 Buchanan Street in Highland Park
Built: 1909
This charming cottage has a front gable, high pitched roof, and perfect symmetry. The front porch is covered by an overhanging roof which has scrolled detailing on the outer edge. Meticulous landscaping, a flower-covered hat decorating the front porch, and a bear carved from a tree trunk all add an enchanting touch to this very well maintained award winner.

Hiner House, 4757 N. Figueroa St. in Highland Park
Built: 1922 Architect Carl Boller
This house was built in 1922 for Dr. Edwin M. Hiner, a distinguished bandleader and founder of the music department at the Los Angeles Normal School, now UCLA. It is a regional interpretation of the Tudor Revival style built with stones from the arroyo. Designated L.A. Historic-Cultural Monument No. 105, this award is in recognition of the re-landscaping of the garden.

Highland Park Theatre, 5600 N. Figueroa Street in Highland Park
Built: 1924 Architect L.A. Smith
The Highland Park Theatre is a vital component of the N. Figueroa St. commercial district. Designated L.A. Historic-Cultural Monument No. 548, the theatre is an unusual example of Moorish Revival architecture. The award is for the restoration of the historic rooftop sign. Recognized contributors include Al Nodal, General Manager for Cultural Affairs and Sergio Tejadilla/LANI Board.

Pillar of Fire Church, 4900 N. Figueroa St. in Highland Park
Built: 1905 Architect Hudson and Munsell
The Pillar of Fire Church was once an estate known as the "Gateway to Highland Park." The award is for sustained maintenance of the house and grounds. Reverend and Mrs. Cruver are also being honored for their service to the community.

Melanie Ingalls
Melanie Ingalls is the Director of Los Angeles Programs for the National Audubon Society and heads the Audubon Center on Monte Vista St. in Highland Park. Her continuing hard work and commitment to the natural world, including the revitalization of Debs Park, is most deserving of this award.

Highland Park HPOZ Board
The HPOZ Board was established in June of 1994, and it is their constant vigilance which has helped preserve the integrity and historical character of our community. Today we honor both past and present board members for their commitment to protecting the rich heritage of Highland Park. Present board members include: Richard Barron, Jesus Encinas, Charles Fisher,Daniel Getman, and Eric Toro. Past board members include Robert Ebinger and Sylvia Killeby.