Get to Know the Real Echo Park

As a 30-year resident of Echo Park, I was insulted and taken aback by the extremely negative and misleading article on Echo Park (“Echo Park Tableaux,” photographs by Gregg Segal, text by Vince Beiser, Nov. 3). The descriptions and photos were more accurate when I first moved here in 1972 than now. Amid the “down-market collage of small dance clubs” etc., the writer and photographer neglected to mention or photograph the thriving antique stores, galleries, coffeehouses, clubs and restaurants that have been here more than 30 years.

Where were photos of stunning and safe Echo Park Lake, with its paddle boats, fishers, joggers and walkers? Or the botanical displays of lovely Elysian Park, filled with picnickers, car shows and soccer games? Beiser forgot to mention how residents can walk to Dodger Stadium and the Music Center. And he completely forgot Angelino Heights, a crucial part of Echo Park and a famous historical center with many restored residences from the Victorian, Craftsman and Art Deco periods. Beiser seemed sad to admit that “many residents say the streets have grown much safer in recent years.” If Beiser or Segal care to drive by again, I’ll invite them to tea, and inform them that they won’t have to lock the car when they park in front of my home. Sorry to disappoint.

Planaria Price

Echo Park