Ed Fuentes

David Lara at Cafe Metropol.

DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES — With his customary fedora close by, City of L.A. Department of Building and Safety Chief David Lara last night thanked well-wishers and co-workers from City Hall for attending the Dave Lara Heart Attack on a Roll Happy Hour.

The after hours gathering, held at the Arts District's Café Metropol, gave Lara a chance to celebrate life a year after he suffered a heart attack. Informal speeches were offered, including those from Councilwoman Jan Perry and Councilman Jose Huizar.

Pictured next to the snappy hat is a delicately wrapped gift basket from an undisclosed City Hall office. It was filled with alternative healthy groceries, including a small box of lard and a package of bacon.