A Bear Becomes a Seahawk
Most people would assume that Kevin Brown’s nickname, “Bear,†comes
from his appearance. At 6’3†, 294 pounds, he’s a formidable opponent at defensive tackle.
Although this Bear is leaving his Bruin-base at UCLA, he exudes a calm self-possession about the future as he heads to Seattle to join the Seahawks. He understands fierce competition. “I wasn’t nervous at all,†he explains. “I wanted to take on that challenge. A lot of people were doubting me because of my injury situation.†With a recent hip surgery for a torn labrum, many speculated that injuries would keep him from a pro career. The situation was all too familiar to the 2005 season, when an ankle injury forced Kevin to redshirt before making a strong comeback in 2006 and 2007. Undergoing those difficulties seem to have made him realize how extraordinary his opportunities are, but also value his abilities outside of football. “It is an honor. It’s gratifying to play football by itself but to play on that level is awesome.â€
Moving On Up!
After 10 years UCLA’s new Ronald Reagan Medical Center has opened. The project was started after 1994 Northridge earthquake damaged the old building. It took over 2,100 employees seven hours and 30 ambulances to move the 355 patients. The design is a more compassionate, patient-focused facility that emphasizes natural light and holistic healing. The building incorporates over 3 million pounds of travertine marble from Italy, which was donated by a patient.
W Hotel Summer Shows
The upscale W Hotel in Westwood is embracing its Hollywood
enthusiasts by showcasing classics on the silver screen at their weekly event “Show Me the Movies: Sunday Summer Cinema in The Backyard.†Attendees can lounge in comfortable cabanas and dine at the hotel’s outdoor restaurant, The Backyard, while watching movies such as Rain Man, Some Like it Hot and The Usual Suspects. To reserve your spot, email rsvpwlaevents@whotels.com. Admission is free and the screenings are held every Sunday night at sunset through September 28.
UCLA ‘s Coach Howland Signs Seven-Year Contract
UCLA Men’s Basketball Coach Ben Howland has signed a contract with the university to continue coaching through the 2014-15 season. Howland, who has led the team to the Final Four for the past three years, said that he feels “blessed†to sign the agreement, which gives him over $2 million (including incentives) for each of the next seven seasons. The coach, who describes his career at UCLA as his dream job, has guided the celebrated team to three Pac-10 titles – and three 30-win seasons – in a row. He is the first coach since John Wooden to win three consecutive conference championships, and he credits the legendary coach for raising the program to its renowned status. UCLA Athletic Director Dan Guerrero acknowledged the Howland’s success, stating that “Ben Howland and UCLA are a great combination.â€
