February 2012, LANDMARK WEST! testified at the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) to help save an artistically important bas relief mural created as part of the legendary Victor's Cafe, open from 1963-1980. Renovation plans by its owner, Greg Hunt, threatened its existence. The mural was described as "an eyesore" and "decrepit" by Hunt.

LANDMARK WEST! and preservationists recognized the significance of the mural as a cultural artifact. It is a reminder of the Upper West Side's once-thriving Cuban population and survives to tell the important story of our neighborhood's layered history. Monica Zaldivar, granddaughter of Victor del Corral, the original owner of Victor's Cafe explained,

For more than four decades, the yoked oxen have lumbered toward Columbus Avenue through the towering grasslands along West 71st Street..." so wrote David Dunlap in the New York Times on Monday, November 12th, 2012.  LANDMARK WEST! is thrilled to celebrate the mural that captures the spirit of the West Side forty years ago. Victor's Cafe will re-open as Cafe Tallulah on December 1st 2012 with the mural preserved.

This victory speaks to the importance of our Certificate of Appropriateness Committee of staff and volunteers with expertise in the fields of architecture, history, preservation, planning and law which meets regularly to review applications for permits to work on landmarked properties located on the Upper West Side. Following our review, we craft and present persuasive statements to the LPC at public hearings. Our C of A Committee is advisory, but we make a difference! Join our C of A Committee--Come learn, listen and participate!

This day would never have come without the determination and steadfast support of preservationists and key leadership from people like those listed below.