The Black Dahlia Murder committed in Los Angeles in 1947, is undoubtedly one of the most publicized crimes of the 20th Century. Elizabeth Short, the beautiful homicide victim, was a raven-haired drifter known for the flowers in her hair. The infamous case has perplexed law enforcement and fascinated the public ever since. Several movies and many books, by the likes of James Ellroy and Dominick Dunne, have explored the mysterious tragedy, while the LAPD has never closed its files.

Author Steve Hodel, a seen-it-all police investigator for 24 years, is convinced he’s finally cracked the case. And his scorching book compellingly points to the killer not only being a South Pasadena High School graduate, but his very own father, Dr. George Hodel. Black Dahlia Avenger: A Genius for Murder has garnered lots of attention from mystery, and thriller readers-- and from major magazines and television shows.

The South Pasadena Public Library and the Friends of the South Pasadena Public Library will proudly present bestselling writer Steve Hodel for a free Author Night program on November 7, 2008 at 7 p.m. in the Library Community Room at 1115 El Centro Avenue. Mr. Hodel’s presentation, will lead the audience from his initial out-of-the-blue suspicion, though his many startling discoveries, and all the way to his shocking conclusion.

The program will open with a performance of Forties tunes by pianist Gere Fennelly and vocalist Renee Simone. Fenelly has opened for Tony Bennett, Tenacious D, and Jane’s Addiction and played

with such varied acts as Redd Kross, Specimen and Abby Travis. She’s been called “Our Generation's Liberace.” Vocalist Simone is a resident of South Pasadena and has recorded with Doc Anello and the Swing Machine, the Big Band that regularly plays at Disneyland, and the LA Alternative bands, Nice Kitty and Warsaw Cocktail.