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Pizza Kitchen Owner Provides
Beauty Salon
by Helen Ridgewell –
Thanks to the generosity of Larry Flax, co-founder of the nationwide California Pizza Kitchen chain, the Army’s Bell Shelter is the proud owner of a state-of-the-art beauty salon.
The beauty salon is dedicated in honor of his mother, Rose Flax, in recognition of her commitment to the betterment of the city. “My mother told me, if you’re down to your last few dollars…get a good suit and a haircut!” Flax said, as he thanked his mother for her inspiration in his life.
Bell Shelter clients, guided by vocational training instructors, provided the labor for the custom designed salon and installed drywall, plumbing, electrical work and cabinetry under the overall supervision of Patrick Mellon, Bell Shelter operations director.
Beverly Hills hair stylist Christophe, who counts Hillary Rodham Clinton among his clients, served as advisor to the project. Christophe has proposed developing a pilot project training program for interested Bell Shelter clients, both male and female, leading to full accreditation and job placement.
Lt. Colonel Alfred R. Van Cleef, Southern California divisional commander, expressed his appreciation to the Flax family and to Christophe for their involvement. Executive Director Robert Freeman seconded his remarks and also thanked California Pizza Kitchen for their tradition of providing gourmet pizza to clients in Army homeless shelters across the nation at Christmas time.
The Bell Shelter, a former warehouse on federal property, currently provides accommodation for up to 350 clients per night. A full range of case management services is offered, including extensive job training opportunities.
Spiritual counseling and worship opportunities are an important part of the program that focuses on easing the transition from homelessness to a productive role in society.
