It turned out to be a triple-header. Scheduled was the July 21st Northeast L.A. Crit Mass ride to end at the RockRose Gallery, an art and performance space in Highland Park. Also scheduled was the showing of the New York City Transportation Alternatives documentary video “Contested Streets” (see review on CICLE.ORG). To my surprise, word leaked out that my birthday was a few days away. A very special lady decided to throw a party for me, adding to the already full event agenda. She arrived a bit late (had me wondering…) and bearing an ice cream cake roll and several more containers of ice cream. What a great treat, especially considering the record-breaking high temperatures in L.A. the last few days.
After the singing of Happy Birthday (and Mañanitas), pigging out on the ice cream, and general socializing, we got a late start on viewing the video. Nonetheless, the documentary was enjoyed by all and I received several inquiries about showing it elsewhere. This was our first such event at RockRose Gallery; it proved to be well suited to the task. Rosamaria is the most gracious of hostesses. There was seating for 40 (we filled the place), and a large screen with audio and video equipment. Although the projector was on the fritz and our own Eric E. generously volunteered his projector. Secure off street parking for bikes was provided right next to the gallery.
We noticed a number of bicycles parked on the sidewalk down the street a few doors. Rumor had it that the Bike Kitchen gang was attending a music event in a newly-acquired space for this purpose. That might explain the new faces at our event that I recognized from the Kitchen. Another Kitchen crew member relocating to the area indicates to me that NELA is ascending to happening place status. All I can say is welcome to all!
Enthusiasm extended past the scheduled event and the group split up for various destinations. It was still very warm and a fantastic night for riding. We’re on a roll, let’s keep it up.
Yes, that was a night of convergence on the 40’s of Fig. But to dispell rumours from becoming myths and just state the facts: The event at the space a few doors down was a private party celebrating the release of my and david’s cd. It’s our newly acquired studio for making art/music and is NOT a performance (public) space. It was supercool to see all the bikes around and I wish I had had time to come up to the event at RockRose. Scary shooting at the end of the night on Ave. 40 though. Lotsa cops and copters. I am from the Bicycle Kitchen, but my studio mates are mere car drivers, although one of ‘em plans to ride his bike cuz he lives up the hill. I promise to only fix my bike inside and not clutter up the sidewalk. See ya around!–Kelly
Thanks for the clarification, Kelly.
You are always welcome to fix your bike at the Bike Oven, a couple of blocks away at 130 W. Ave 42. We are there every Wednesday night at 9:00pm until ? And Bike Oven XX is on second and fourth Saturdays at 1:00pm.
Let me second Harv’s invite to the Bike Oven. Welcome to the neighborhood!
Do you have regular hours? I have wanted to stop by and pick up my “Virgen” piece, but you are often closed. I guess this doesn’t look like a legitimate reply to your blog, but I thought I would give it a try! I am patient, but would still like to be there when you are. What about Suncay, January 21 at about 2:30?
By the way, I am glad I discovered this site, anyway!
Hi Karen,
The Bike Oven is open to all on Monday and Wednesday evenings, and the 2nd and 4th Saturdays in the afternoon is for women. You are welcome any time.
Here’s the schedule for the next week, and you can always find all of the hours and times here: http://www.cicle.org/cicle_content/pivot/entry.php?id=549
1/22/07 6:00pm Bike Oven Mondays Meet: 130 W Avenue 42 (cross Figueroa) Los Angeles, CA, 90065
1/24/07 6:00pm Bike Oven Wednesdays
1/27/07 1:00pm Bike Oven XX :: Women’s Bike Space
Shay – Isn’t Karen asking about RockRose’s hours? Karen – yes, Rosamaria does not keep regular hours at the gallery. The only time I have seen her open for sure would be the Second Saturday art tour. I would get there between 6 pm and 9 pm. The next one is scheduled for February 10th.
Oh yeah… sorry about that. I haphazardly read the two comments regarding invites to the Bike Oven and based my response upon that — good thing there’s quality control around here.