On Saturday, May 17, Venice celebrated the renovation of Muscle Beach's classic outdoor weight lifting pen. Councilmember Rosendahl joined fitness guru Jack Lalanne and former Mr. Olympia, Franco Colombo, for the ribbon cutting ceremony.

Pumping Iron, a 1978 bodybuilding documentary starring Franco and Arnold Schwarzenegger, changed the world's perception of health and fitness. I have watched the movie dozens of times. Due to my father's love for the sport of body building, I practically grew up in a weight room. Franco Colombo has been a personal hero, and meeting him last weekend at the historic Muscle Beach was a dream come true. His character has had a huge influence in my life, regularly reminding me just how wonderful exercise is for physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.

No matter where or when, I have relied on the weight room for some reprieve from life's ordeals. Lifting weights offers an unmatched physical experience by releasing endorphins, regenerating new muscle tissue, and building new levels of confidence.

An alarming number of Americans are suffering from depression and obesity these days. Both illnesses are often linked to a lack of exercise and an unhealthy diet. Hitting the weight room and going to the gym at least 3 days a week can significantly decrease your risk of suffering from these debilitating diseases.

I'll never forget the T-shirt that my dad wore to the gym when I was a kid. It said "Happiness is a Healthy Body." This message was reinforced while watching Franco and Arnold laughing-it-up while battling-it-out for the Mr. Olympia title at Muscle Beach and the historic Gold's Gym in Venice. The film's charming personalities erased the negative stigmas that body building had at the time. The message had a ripple-effect as gyms and fitness centers sprung up in every city and state across America.

It was an honor to meet legends like Jack and Franco, who have dedicated their lives to spreading the message of fitness. It made me realize how lucky I am to live and work in a neighborhood with people who care about their health and the wellness of the community.

-Nate Kaplan
Communications Deputy and Venice Resident

Deputy Chief Terry Hara

On behalf of the 11th distict and the City of Los Angeles, I'd like to welcome Deputy Chief Terry S. Hara, the new commanding officer of the West Bureau of the LAPD.

I joined with Councilmember Dennis Zine, City Council President Eric Garcetti, and Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa in welcoming Hara to the new position on April 7th at LAPD Academy’s Elysian Park.

Hara is now the highest ranking Asian American police officer in the nation. As commanding officer of the West Bureau, Hara will oversee the LAPD’s Pacific Division, West LA, Hollywood, and Wilshire Divisions.


-Bill