Jazz Memorial Program Proposal
Commercial Events
Ozzie Cadena: Jazz has always been an integral part of his life and for the past 20 years has been involved in bringing jazz to Hermosa Beach. The most notable location is the Lighthouse. The Lighthouse All Stars are known worldwide. Although jazz is not as popular as other music these days, it still has a huge following. Ozzie first presented this proposal to City Council four (4) years ago. As he has allowed other people to take leadership, the project did not move along as he had hoped. Along with the efforts of the Jazz Alumni and Commissioners he will start the project up again. His proposal is to place plaques on Pier Plaza, which he believes will be a tourist attraction for Hermosa Beach. He feels the Lighthouse and its history are not fully utilized for the benefit of Hermosa Beach. Ozzie feels the combination of jazz performances and the plaques will increase interest and be a Hermosa Beach attraction.
Questions/Discussion from Commission
Commissioner Bell – a member of the committee: Ozzie has done a great job in moving this project along. Ozzie has been successful in raising the necessary funds to move ahead with the memorial program. Four draft plaques are being presented to the Commission for approval. One (1) of the four (4) is an introductory plaque and the other three (3) highlight certain bands and their era. The money is in place to start with the placement of these four (4) plaques with more added as the money is raised and placement is allocated. The nomination forms were presented so that people can nominate bands they feel worthy of this recognition. It is suggested that these plaques be placed on the blocks on Pier Plaza.
Question from Commissioner Hollander – where is placement suggested? Commissioner Bell showed a picture depicting the placement of plaques and explained that they are not looking to fill every block with plaques, although this could eventually happen, they are starting with Phase 1 – the first four (4) plaques. The organization will work with Mike Flaherty of Public Works to make sure that the plaques are aesthetically placed. Also, Ozzie and his group have committed to keeping the plaques clean.
Question fro Commissioner Sigler – As the plaques are already paid for, will the City pay for installation? Ozzie has raised approximately $4,300 to date. Lisa Lynn stated that this program is similar to the Surfers Walk of Fame where the private donations will cover the cost of the plaques and the City will absorb the cost of installation.
Commissioner Bell asked Ozzie if he could place 5 plaques with the money that is currently raised at $700 per plaque. Ozzie stated that he spoke with a gentleman today who makes the plaques for the Hollywood Walk of Fame and for Manhattan Beach and he was told that the cost for a plaque with names and a small blurb would cost $400. Lisa Lynn state that a written price quote is necessary. Ozzie is waiting for a return fax to confirm this information.
Commissioner Fishman commented on the durability of Ozzie’s design for these plaques, which will last approximately 40 years. Lisa Lynn stated that they could potentially last longer, as they will not be ‘walked on’.
For donations, questions/suggestions or for a nomination application, contact the Community Resources Department at (310) 318-0280 and mention the Jazz Memorial Walk.
Commissioner Fishman encouraged Ozzie to talk with Whitney of the Beach Reporter regarding advertising.
Commissioner Hollander made a donation and commented on being very impressed with Ozzie’s drive and dedication to this project. Ozzie was given a donation to have his name placed on the plaque. He will give this some consideration.
MOTION by Commissioner Fishman to approve the Jazz Memorial Program pending adequate funding.
Commissioner Bell seconded the motion.
Ayes: Commissioners Fishman, Hollander, Bell, Sigler
Nays: None
Abstain: None
Absent: Francis
