As many of us know, the literary service station 826 LA in Echo Park (as well as 826's in other cities and neighborhoods) is dedicated to promoting writing skills in children. So, if they are mixing their metaphors when they ask supporters to put their best feet forward for a fundraiser this coming Sunday, we give them poetic license. Eight-two-six is holding its 2nd Annual Paddle Boat Regatta at Echo Park Lake starting at 4 p.m. on Sunday, July 26. They want to know if you have the "mettle to pedal." Or is that the "maddle to paddle"?

One big relief is in finding that the paddle boats are still afloat at EP Lake. Rumors have the city withdrawing funding for the historic recreation.