Two of West Hollywood’s most impactful “trouble makers” got some long-overdue praise from the city Wednesday.
Former City Councilmember Steve Martin and former Disabilities Advisory Boardmember Myra “Mikie” Friedman were honored by the Older Adults Advisory Board at a ceremony at West Hollywood City Council Chambers. Martin quipped he and Friedman were being named “Trouble Makers of the Year,” and the moniker stuck.
“When we talk about passion, your passion that you find, that you bring and bear your soul to us in this chamber, you’ve ignited so many other hearts and minds in the way you have,” Vice Mayor Chelsea Byers told the honorees. “It’s something young people and every person needs to learn from because what I hear from you is that this passion keeps us going, it keeps us moving forward, and it keeps the community coming together.”
Martin and Friedman have been instrumental in advocating for the well-being of older adults, pushing for improved public safety, scooter regulation and government transparency in West Hollywood. Both are regular speakers during public comment at City Council meetings, and both have shown unusual courage in voicing their opinions, especially when their stances run counter to City Hall’s. Their dedication and tireless efforts have significantly impacted the lives of many residents, making the city a better place for its elder population.
“There’s so much to admire about Mikie—just so many things,” Advisory Board Chair Pat Dixon said. “I’m so glad that you’re here today to accept this because I couldn’t think of a finer person than you at this time of life to, like they say, exemplify all of the goodness there is in being an older adult. She is what we strive to be.”
“You hear that often times able-bodied and younger people have preconceived ideas of what older adults are capable of, and they forget that while our shell may be a little imperfect or a little beaten up — inside we are very vital and very aware of what’s going on,” Friedman said as she accepted the award. “In other words, they should be warned: our inside and our outside don’t match. … I promise to continue to keep fighting for all of our welfare.
“Being involved has only enriched my life,” Martin said. “I’ve had more out of West Hollywood than I’ve ever could have.”
Mr. Husain…there are blatant bigots who exist in too many communities. They have no control of their minds or their mouths.I know how the hatred feels. I am a Jew. Neither one of our people should be targets of hatred and the bigotry of others.. But yours and mine are. And I join you and anyone else who suffers from bigotry by speaking out. However (there is always one of these); those who do accomplish positive results for the efforts must be at least acknowledged. As a Jew I hear more casual bigotry than I can abide. And I have… Read more »
And yes, these are the two who should sit on the Council!!!!!!!!
It’s about time!!!! As a life long “squeaky wheel” I applaud these two amazing and important people. They have my unending admiration and appreciation. And they can both call on me for assistance and input anytime. I too am a squeaky wheel. And as such, get get heard and make things happen for good. Thank you both for all you do.
Well deserved! Wish both would run for Council
HOO-RAH, Steve!.
Much deserved!
I honor these two people who truly care, have the courage of their convictions, are not afraid to rock the boat, and attach their names to their words through thoughtful and thought-provoking commentary on here and regularly at city council meetings. WeHo needs more Mikie Friedmans and Steve Martins. It helps that they act with humor and wit in a world devoid of good nature and class.
Tuesday at 2pm? I’ll be at work, but congrats!
I doubt that the actual Award is “Trouble Makers of the Year” but at least one person commented to that effect. It is an honor to be recognized with Mikey by our peers and the community.
Steve, while, I know that’s not the actual title of the award you and I are being given, I kinda like the title “troublemaker!“ As I approach my 80th year on this planet, I think that being a little feisty is what helps keep me young! And I am so honored to be considered for this award along with you! I think everyone should hear the stirring public comment you gave at the PSC meeting last night! You were marvelous!!
Your feistiness comes with grace. You’re a rare breed!
👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼.
You both care out loud; thank you.
So, in other words, WeHo is honoring the normies for once instead of Stormy Daniels or the drag queen du jour. Things are looking up!
Love it.