Post #382215 by bigbrotiki on Sun, May 25, 2008 4:43 AM

Ha, I like that "Toxic Substance Warning" sign, signaling the end of innocence of the Polynesian paradise. What a strange little carving, never saw it before, it might be a recent atttempt. Great photos, Kate, thank you.

The two Tikis holding up the A-frame prow look like Mike Gildea carvings, note the characteristic "Teddy Bear" posture also found at the TIKI Apartments in Torrance:
http://www.tikicentral.com/viewtopic.php?topic=22886&forum=2

And you can still live there, in beautiful Sherman Oaks :D :

http://horaceheidtestates.com/08/index.php

Yes, that place is one of the remaining gems for the LA urban archeologist. The humongous waterfall (seldom working) by the entrance alone makes it worth a visit. I used the guard house to a good effect in the BOT, and I am glad I can contribute a few pix from my evening excursion with Tiki Kiliki and Charles Phoenix from over a year or so ago. (I believe I did post some of these earlier, but I cannot find them now, and they do belong in this thread):

One of the great concepts of the complex is that it is themed in THE leisure lifestyle destinations of a generation: As Hawaiian on the left, and as Palm Springs on the right.

The mailbox murals have been repainted...

...the stream behind the buildings has dried up, but the main club house still has some nice lamps...

...and by the pool one can find the " Grauman's Chinese Theater"-style imprints of band members of Horace Heidt's Orchestras:

His son has tried to continue the tradition with his own orchestra...

I believe he can bee seen at this upcoming event:

Big Band Reunion 2008
A more or less complete chronological history of the big bands, plus a dance set!
Starring the BBAA Blue Ribbon Band under the direction of Pat Longo along with Jo Stafford, Horace Heidt, Jr. and Gordon Goodwin.
Sunday, June 1st, 2008 in the Empire Room at The Sportsmen's Lodge. Doors open at 12 NOON. Lunch served at 1 PM.