Yesterday from my office downtown I witnessed a seemingly instantaneous thick black column of smoke rise from the hills of Echo Park. That smoke was the now destroyed home of Neighborhood Council Rep Larry Pickens. The family and dogs are okay, the house and Larry’s car are a total loss. No word yet on what happen, what we do know is they will need there communities help to get through this. Check back later, when we have more information we’ll let you to see how you can help. [Insurance has covered the family’s needs].