Mar Vistans enjoy low crime rates, but always be vigilant

This past year the LAPD has achieved some pretty spectacular numbers as far as reducing crime goes, and we here in Mar Vista are blessed to be living in such a quiet little slice of Los Angeles. That doesn't mean that we don't have crime - in fact the biggest reported crime here is BTMV or Burglary/Theft from Motor Vehicle. The simple answer is of course to double check and make sure that the car door is locked up and all of the valuables are taken inside or stashed out of sight. Also keep your eyes peeled for any suspicious activity on your street. If you do see someone jumping over a fence or peering through your neighbors windows, don't hesitate to call 911 and report a crime in progress. We need to send the criminals a message that they are not welcome here.

   The MVCC Safety and Security Committee has been busy this past year. We were able to allocate some additional funding to Pacific Graffiti Solutions, our local city graffiti removal company to help keep up with the tagging that has been plaguing our city lately. We were also able to give some needed funds to the LAPD's Explorer program to help "at risk" kids stay on the straight and narrow. And we just passed a motion to get roughly 50 more "Neighborhood Watch" signs to hang around the streets of Mar Vista.

   We were also proud to participate in the annual "Shakeout." It was a big success, and Mar Vista and the Hilltop Neighborhood Association led the way with their "Aftershock" event. We opened up the emergency supplies trailer and had some booths and demonstrations from various experts in the field of earthquake survival. It was attended by the LAPD, CERT, Bill Rosendahl, and some local media. Look forward to some similar events this year on Oct.15. Check the MVCC web site for the exact details as we get nearer.

   Lastly, one of our goals for this next year is to really get people more involved in the block captain program. If you don't know who your block captain is, there is a good chance you don't have one. If you are concerned with the safety of your house and your block then contact the Neighborhood association where you live and they may be able to help you. If not feel free to call the front desk at LAPD Pacific Division (310) 482-6334 and ask who your Senior Lead Officer is. They can help get you started. If all else fails you can come to the MVCC Safety and Security meeting which is usually held the 4th Thursday of the month at 7 PM at the Coffee Connection on the corner of Venice and Centinela.

Bill Koontz

Safety and Security Committee Co Chair