Patriotic Paint Job Proposed for a Landmark

To demonstrate its patriotism, Los Angeles is considering remaking one of its most recognized landmarks by painting the Hollywood sign red, white and blue.

Under a plan introduced Friday by Councilman Eric Garcetti, the sign would be painted in time for Veterans Day to make it appear as though a giant U.S. flag had been superimposed on it.

It would be repainted its original white after Thanksgiving.

City lawmakers, at the urging of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, are expected to vote on Garcetti’s motion Wednesday. Universal Studios has agreed to cover the cost of the project.

“Hollywood loves America and it’s a really good time for us to express that, and for us to show that Hollywood has always stood by the fighting men and women of this country,” Garcetti said.

Although some neighborhood activists say they support the patriotic gesture, others are not so sure. Leron Gubler, president of the Hollywood chamber, said his group is fielding complaints from a few activists who have traditionally opposed any alteration of the historic sign.

“We are hoping the homeowners will understand and allow for a two-week period for L.A. to show its patriotism,” Gubler said. “It will instill a spirit of pride.”

Over the years, the sign has been altered repeatedly by vandals and others. In the 1970s, pranksters altered it to say “HOLLYWEED.” Other unauthorized slogans included “PEROTWOOD,” “CALTECH” and “GO NAVY.”

In another sign of patriotism, a yellow ribbon was tied around the hillside landmark to support U.S. troops during the Gulf War.

The last time the sign was legally modified was in 1992, when Paramount Studios erected a giant cartoon character on the letter D to promote the film “Cool World.” The controversy that ensued prompted then-Mayor Tom Bradley to call for stricter policies regarding the sign.

Several years later, the city rejected a Walt Disney Co. advertising plan to put spots on the sign to promote its “101 Dalmatians” film.

Mayor James K. Hahn called Garcetti’s proposal “a great idea.”

Don Selgen, a past president of the Hollywood Homeowners Assn., echoed that sentiment.

“I’ve always been a firm believer that the sign belongs to the city,” Selgen said. “This is something that could be really, really uplifting for L.A.”

‘Hollywood loves America and it’s a really good time for us to express that.’