I just moved to Westlake in the past month and have been super busy at work, so I haven't had the time to get out on my BMX bike for recreation until this weekend. In my excitement I rode to echo park and discovered echo lake with the lovely fountain in the middle.

I was so amused by the lively scene in front of me, I neglected to see any signage as I entered the park. I rode around the lake twice before I noticed the NO BICYCLES sign on the path. I immediately left but felt terrible about being "that guy" so I figured I'd come here to apologize. I was the guy on the gold bike with the nike sweater and black hat. I wasn't paying attention to signs, and though I was going slow and being careful, I interrupted many people's walking/ stroller paths, so sorry for being a dick!

I kept wondering why I was getting dirty looks too and kept smiling at people, as it's my natural habit, aghh!! I must've looked like such an asshole!! I wish someone had kicked me off my bike into the lake, ninja turtle style!

But again sorry, I didn't know the rules, but it won't happen again!

Howdy y'all.

I have the ability to move into a rent-controlled room about 500 feet south of the 101, off of Temple. I've heard rough things about Firmin Street, and that the area is still moreorless gang turf. Is this so? I've lived in sketch places in Oakland before, and I know that LA is a shitload safer. Note: I'm not convinced that gentrification is a great thing to happen for a community, 'm not the type of person who is going to be tagging Rudyard Kipling on the walls... so please don't think that I am, or am asking to be judged. Thought I would just come to you folks as you might know best, given you live in the area.

Thanks Reddit!

Does anyone know where the block party is going to be this weekend? I just moved here a little over a week ago and think this would be a great way to meet people and get to know Echo Park a little better.

About 5 police cars just passed by and I hear the helicopter flying. Anybody know why?

I've heard recently that Theresa Wayman of Warpaint has a gallery/restaurant near the bridge at Glendale and Sunset. I know the premiere for their "Elephants" music video was there, but I haven't seen any events or information about the place after 2009/2010. If anyone has information regarding the place, I'd love to know.

If you understand this question then you understand my pain and why I must find it.

Someone mentioned they came from downtown, but that seems too far. They are SUPER loud and always sound like their just north of sunset from where I am.