Always West Of Lincoln

IF you have ever lost a friend to the Los Angeles Westside, you know somebody who has "gone a.w.o.l.” Characterized by phrases such as “Not tonight, Hollywood is just way too far.” Or, “Meet in Beverly HiIls? I would, but do you just want to do a beach day instead?” These phrases are a statment of the amazing places your friend has found just moments from his, or her, front door, not a comment on your friendship per-sey.

From the arts and shopping found on Main St. and Abbot Kinney, to the new Santa Monica Place and the water sports down at the marina, this all inclusive westside phrase "awol" broadens the smaller communities there-in and recognizes that some of us love it all, but simply don't want to drive. Harkening back to "Falling Down" or even our simple discussion of the hazards of traffic, it makes sense.

In many ways, the (about) seven blocks from Lincoln to the ocean really does marks a territory - it's like the county line with little cities within it's limits. Especially when looking for apartments, I regularly found less expensive units across the divide, but the areas were generally less savory.

I'm not sure the term is "officially" coined, but I've heard enough Angelenos throw the phrase around. It stuck with me and frankly, I was thrilled to hear others felt the same way! No animosity towards the rest of the city (obviously!) but with gas prices so high, and so much to do in this part of town - forget the sprawl for now, this will remain my little neighborhood. Gone fishing? Nope, just gone AWOL.

-- Sarah Kruberg
(photos: s.k.)