Ron Kaye presents Bastille Day at City Hall

Los Angeles in 2008 has changed from Dragnet's Jack Webb vision of "Seven Suburbs in Search of a City" to today's "Neighborhoods Afraid of Density in Search of Honest Government".

Witness the crowd of activists and speakers who answer the call of former Daily News Editor Ron Kaye by coming together today on the south steps of City Hall.

"No Home Depot!!", "Cyclist Rights", "Friends of the Southwest Museum", "Jamiel's Law", "Save Our Schools" and lets not forget the "NIMBYS", were represented and united in calling for Angelinos to retake our city.

Speakers galore with the likes of KABC AM Talk Show Host Doug McIntyre, Green Dot's Steve Barr, "Sandra T of Liberty" and of course Ron Kaye, sharing the mike with the likes of Joe B., Jose Aguilar, John Walsh, and Lincoln Heights Hugo Pacheco plus others. And one would be remiss if one didn't mention Councilman Dennis Zine (with the scary "Z"-shield) and City Controller Laura Chick who spoke to the masses. One did see a certain "Historian LaBonge" briefly but maybe he had to preside over another "secret meeting".

LA Times scribes Steve Lopez and David Zahniser were able to escape the "death-like catacombs" of the "OLD GRAY LADY ON SPRING STREET...for sale", looking for the angle on today's festivities that will hopefully meet with readership. Zahniser was also seen dealing with the "spin" of one Matt Szabo.

"Meanwhile, Matt Szabo, a spokesman for Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, said he was encouraged that participants mentioned schools and public safety. "It's good to see so many people supporting the centerpiece of the mayor's agenda," said Szabo."

The "bloggin community" of Mayor Sam was well-represented with Joe B., "The Bloggin Shaws", "Petra", and one "Valley Doll" manning the S.O.S. cupcake table. Zuma Dogg held court with many in the crowd. Joseph Mailander was out and about finding "freshness" in the turnout.

200+ people from all corners of the city braved a hot and humid noon-time sun to meet with like-minded Angelinos who simply want honest and community-based government return to Spring Street, something that should be a given in America but now has to become a noble crusade in Los Angeles.

Thanks to Ron Kaye for taking the lead, onwards.....................

***"Westside White Guy" chimes in with "The Bastille Stands"***
***LA Weekly "Ron Kaye revolts on Bastille Day".***
***City Watch by Ken Draper "Revolution or Evolution?"***
***Curbed LA "Plenty of Anti-Development Signs"***