The LA48 Foundation celebrated its 40th anniversary with a dedication of an intersection outside its headquarters in South Los Angeles.
Adding to the celebration was the debut of an exhibit dedicated to the 1984 Olympics at the LA84 Foundation’s headquarters, located at the newly renamed intersection of Gramercy and West Adams and now called “LA84 Foundation Plaza.”
The Olympic Games are not only a testament to sporting achievement, but also a lasting legacy, a sentiment shared by the 1984 Olympians who gathered in Los Angeles this week to celebrate a milestone in their sport and their community.
Renata Simril, president of the LA84 Foundation, highlighted the incredible achievement made by the organizers of the 1984 Games, who were the first in Olympic history to run the Games privately funded and profitable.
“The organizers of the 1984 Olympics accomplished the incredible feat of running the event privately and profitably,” Simrill said.
The LA84 Foundation was founded in the aftermath of those games and continues that tradition, aiming to break down barriers to youth sports participation and ensure the impact of the 1984 games continues for future generations.
Los Angeles City Council Member Heather Hutt, who represents the 10th District, highlighted the foundation’s ongoing commitment to its community-driven mission.
“They’ve expanded their mission to root in this community and help kids,” Hutt said.
Track and field legend Carl Lewis, who won nine Olympic gold medals, spoke passionately about the power of Olympic unity.
“When you’re out on the field or on the track, it doesn’t matter where you’re from, it’s the competition that matters,” Lewis said.
One of the emotional moments during the event was the long-delayed medal ceremony in which Michael Schoettl, a member of the 1952 sailing team, received his gold medal decades after the event due to a rules discrepancy.
“We’ll put it in the bank vault tomorrow,” Schoettl said, holding the medal.
Looking to the future, Mayor Bass expressed confidence that Los Angeles is on track to host the 2028 Olympic Games.
“Our world-class stadium is world-ready, the plans are in place and we have a great foundation from which to work,” Bass said.