Commune Life: suburban Day of the D

Usually at this time of year, it's all permaculture (time-honored permanent agricultural practices) at The Commune.

Flower and incense burning in the air, folks congregating in gentle circles, hippies coming out of unhoned woodwork in one big flock, it's usually a murder of bleary-eyed magpies.

But this is a good weekend. Caroline is away, traveling. Tara long since left to find and/or make something of herself. And it's just Julia and Alan holding down the hillside for a Day of the Dead celebration.

The Dia de los Muertos altar was set up for ofrendas, honoring founding artist Zorthian (the namesake patriarch of Zorthian Ranch), lost ones, and anyone in the universe someone remembered and cared enough to commemorate

Ty on 'flower' ethnobotany and greywater (LBC)

 Z Ranch put out the invitation to all neighbors to celebrate the lives of ancestors and loved ones. They (all of Los Angeles) were invited to drop by, say "hi," and adorn the altar with an offering, photo, or personal note.

We all enjoyed cocoa, caffeine-free coffee, green tea, and a kids crafts table under the black walnut (Juglans nigra) tree, once widespread on hillsides facing the rising sun in LA, hosting many native birds.

It was a two-day event, Nov. 1 and 2, from 3:00-8:00 pm. Be in touch for the next event. Maybe another Permaculture Convergence is in the planning, or it's on to the next thing: Electro Culture for super growth.

Legacy of the Zorthian Ranch

For over 70 years, the Zorthian Ranch has existed as a haven for artists and intellectuals, a community and arts center, and a natural respite from the big city below.

It has also been used as a movie location for over 20 years, with many popular TV shows, movies, and music videos (particularly Westerns) filming on site.

Looking for a unique and versatile location for a project? Let Z Ranch know about location needs, and Julia Z will be in touch. More