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OLVERA STREET BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS

This traditional and popular event, sponsored by the merchants of very historic Olvera Street (The oldest surviving street in Los Angeles, dating from the days of Mexico's rule) is held every Easter Saturday. People from all over the area, especially nearby neighborhoods, bring their animals to be blessed by Cardinal Roger Mahoney and others. Since at the last one I saw several busloads of German tourists, I know that it is also a seasonal tourist attraction. In any case, seeing the street turn into a merry confusion of people and all kinds of animals, is a great deal of fun.

My absolute favorite Blessing of the Animals photo. The dog -- dressed in his ridiculous outfit -- met my eyes and in a serious, puzzled, yet deeply alive glance, communicated his awareness of the absurdity of life in general and his immediate situation in particular. Click on the picture to see a larger view. He and I are in a different world from the others in the photo.

More photos below

Blind Accordianist	High School Band
Outfitting Chihuahuas	Chihuahuas tying up a man's legs
Girl with 3-legged dog	Man with Monkey
Red Girls	For more pix go to Page 2