Chief Parks to Address North Valley Group

The newly formed North San Fernando Valley Community Foundation, along with Cal State Northridge, will host a discussion Tuesday with new Los Angeles Police Chief Bernard Parks.

Organizers said Parks will be the first of a series of speakers brought in by the fledgling group, which was established to “give voice to people in the north San Fernando Valley.”

Parks will speak at 7 p.m. at the CSUN Performing Arts Center, 18001 Nordhoff St.

Those attending the free lecture can park in campus lot C on Zelzah Avenue.

Gary Washburn, foundation facilitator, said Parks is expected to give residents an idea of what they can expect from the Police Department under his command.

“He’s got some pretty ambitious plans for the department,” Washburn said. “We want the community to be able to meet a real community leader who will have a significant impact.”

The foundation was formed two months ago by local leaders to provide lectures and programs and provide a place for residents to get information on issues that may affect them.

“Sometimes the north San Fernando Valley feels lost,” Washburn said. “We’re just trying to give everybody here a place to go, where they can represent themselves, empower themselves.”

For information, call (818) 886-9221.