THE MEN’S ISSUE
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32 TOPGOLF TEES OFF A driving range for the digital age
38 A GOOD GRILLING Zane Stoddard: Manhattan Beach Tuna Melt
58 BEACH MEETS STREETS Moi Quinn: Tomorrows Bad Seeds
74 JUST BELIEVE Julian Kuhr: British soccer
78 TRUTH IN WINE Darioush Khaledi
104 SEEN Who’s who around the South Bay
130 LAST WORD Beyond the Bubble
74 58
78
COVER Sean Hill photographed by Monica Orozco
50
66
26
84
SOLO RIDER
LET IT RIDE
No shirt. No problem. For Keith Floria,
A Palos Verdes cyclist heads to the
cycling is about doing it his way and not
land of his ancestors to complete a
36
taking a second for granted.
biking pilgrimage on the famed Camino
THE FACE OF LAW
de Santiago.
Guzman Law Group
MORE THAN WORDS
90
62
Sean Hill wants to leave this world a better
LIKE MINDS
SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT
place, and he hopes his poetry inspires you
A Redondo Beach resident seeks design help
Rolling Hills Prep, Renaissance &
to do the same.
from a longtime friend to create a modern
REACH Schools
ALSO...
44
dream home completely tailored to him.
50
82
RAISED IN WATER
96
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
With the help of Brazilian professional surfer
AGAINST THE CURRENT
Bespoke by Chase
Juliano Uzuelli, a young protégé takes his
Ventura-based boat maker Jeff Hull proves
skills to the next level.
there’s never a bad time to seek out a more
106
meaningful direction with your work.
PROFILES
66
Men of the South Bay
DOWN TO EARTH As farm manager for Catalina View Gardens
114
in Palos Verdes, Nick Zetts leads with
REAL ESTATE
sustainability and cultivates a future for
Spectacular local listings
urban agriculture.
Farm Fresh Cannabis. South Bay Roots. Free Delivery.
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Tale of Two Bikes Glimmers of a future issue begin to spark months before
meaningful common thread. A passion gets Alex and
the ink hits the paper. I will receive a story idea from a
Keith on their bikes and carries them through great
writer or photographer and file it away for the perfect edi-
distances, challenging climbs and exhilarating descents.
tion. The sum of those parts will eventually come together
What’s difficult on the body is often liberating for the
in what you hold in your hand today. In the case of our
soul. I have great admiration for these two guys, no mat-
July issue, I collected two stories about men and their
ter if the destination is a Spanish cathedral or Wayfarers
bikes. As they came to me at different moments earlier
Chapel. As Albert Einstein said, “Life is like riding a
this year, I didn’t connect the dots until more recently.
bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.”
Alex Quintana’s story follows him through Spain as
In our annual Men’s Issue, we feature several local guys
he completes the fabled Camino de Santiago. His bike
who move through life with purpose. These include mo-
propelled him along a 544-mile trek over the course of
tivational speaker and poet Sean Hill, farm manager Nick
about two weeks. It’s difficult to say how many miles
Zetts and musician Moi Quinn. I also had the pleasure of
Keith Floria has traversed through the winding hills of
interviewing the man behind Instagram hit Manhattan
Palos Verdes. Known affectionately as Shirtless Keith, the
Beach Tuna Melt: Zane Stoddard. Check out all these gents
Harbor City resident is a fixture on Peninsula streets—
and more on the coming pages. Enjoy the ride.
pedaling his BMX bike amid waves and shout-outs from admiring locals. Two men. Two bikes. Two journeys. On the surface, they may seem divergent. But to me they share a
22
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Darren Elms
DIANE BARBER | Diane is a South Baybased lifestyle journalist, interior designer, equestrian and animal lover. Her writing is inspired by her passion for celebrating incredible people, animals and the arts. She is a construction design expert, and when not creating new living spaces, she is immersed in her beloved horse world.
MONICA OROZCO | Filled with passion, Monica’s known for capturing quirky, dark, sexy images, especially those taken in her hometown of Los Angeles. Her work has been shown around the world, including New York, London and Berlin, and has been published online and in numerous magazines including Anthem, Spin, TimeOut London, Interview, Swindle, Whitehot, Los Angeles Times, NBC, KPCC, JPG, ARTINFO and ForYourArt. demonicaphoto.com
SCOTT SANFORD TOBIS | Scott is a screenwriter, journalist, cookbook author and LA Weekly-nominated playwright (an award he proudly lost to the late Ray Bradbury). He is currently working on a vaguely autobiographical TV series entitled Unmoored. He is endlessly fascinated by the human condition—whatever myriad conditions that might entail. |
23
CONGRATULATIONS VISTAMAR SCHOOL CLASS OF 2022
College Acceptances for Class of 2022 (partial listing) Matriculations in Bold The University of Alabama American University Arizona State University The University of Arizona Bard College Bennington College Boston University Brandeis University Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo Cal Poly, Pomona CSU Channel Islands CSU Dominguez Hills CSU Fullerton CSU Long Beach CSU Los Angeles CSU Monterey Bay CSU Northridge CSU Sacramento UC Berkeley (7) UC Davis (3) UC Irvine UCLA UC Merced UC Riverside UC San Diego UC Santa Barbara UC Santa Cruz Carleton College Chapman University (2) Clark University Clarkson University Clemson University Colgate University College of New Caledonia University of Colorado Boulder Connecticut College University of Delaware University of Denver DePaul University (2)
DePauw University Dickinson College Dillard University Drexel University Eckerd College El Camino College (2) Elon University Emerson College Emory University - Oxford College Fisk University Florida Gulf Coast University Florida Polytechnic University Fordham University Fort Lewis College George Washington University Gettysburg College Gonzaga University Hampton University Harvey Mudd College University of Hawaii at Manoa Hawaii Pacific University Hofstra University Hope International University Howard University (2) Indiana University - Bloomington Ithaca College James Madison University Keio University - Fujisawa Kenyon College Lafayette College Lawrence University Lewis & Clark College Loyola Marymount University Loyola University Chicago Loyola University New Orleans Macalester College University of Maryland Massachusetts Institute of Technology University of Miami
University of Michigan - Ann Arbor Michigan State University Middlebury College Muhlenberg College Mushashino University, Tokyo New York University Northeastern University (3) University of Notre Dame Oberlin College Occidental College University of Oregon (4) Pace University, New York City University of the Pacific Pennsylvania State University Pepperdine University Pitzer College Pomona College University of Portland University of Puget Sound Purdue University University of Redlands Reed College Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Rice University University of Rochester Rochester Institute of Technology Saint Louis University San Diego State University University of San Diego University of San Francisco Santa Barbara City College Santa Clara University (2) Seattle University Seton Hall University Skidmore College Sophia University University of Southern California Spelman College University of St. Andrews
St. Olaf College St. John’s College St. John’s University - New York Stevens Institute of Technology Suffolk University Syracuse University Temple University Texas Christian University (3) The University of Texas at Austin Trinity College Tufts University Tulane University Tuskegee University Union College Universita di Roma - La Sapienza University of Northern British Columbia University of Vermont University of Victoria University of Washington, Seattle (4) University of Wisconsin - Madison (3) Virginia Polytechnic Institute Waseda University Whitman College Whittier College Willamette University (2) William & Mary Worcester Polytechnic Institute
We believe there’s a better way to do high school. Vistamar is a private independent high school in the South Bay.
www.vistamarschool.org
@vistamarschool
JULY 2022 The Lastest Dish Zane Stoddard serves up satire with Manhattan Beach Tuna Melt. More on page 38.
solo rider NO SHIRT. NO PROBLEM. FOR KEITH FLORIA, CYCLING IS ABOUT DOING IT HIS WAY AND NOT TAKING A SECOND FOR GRANTED. Written by Jennie Nunn | Photographed by Jeff Berting
Keith Floria is leaning against the railing on the patio of the Golden Cove shopping center along Palos Verdes Drive West, staring at the ocean, when I walk up to meet him on a sunny afternoon in early May. He’s holding on to the handlebars and seat
admitted nonconformist, with one major passion: cycling. “I look forward each day to doing it, and it’s exhilarating,” he says. “The bike is a tool that enables me to do what I do.” Keith, who turns 50 later this year, was born in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, and graduated from South Pittsburg High School. He’s the oldest of three, with two younger sisters. He first migrated west to California in the late 1990s with his now ex-wife. He lived in Santa
of his shiny silver BMX bike (which I
Monica for seven years before ultimately landing in his
later learn is a GT 3816 single-speed
studio apartment in Harbor City. Although he can’t quite explain how he fell into cy-
street bike from the 1980s, weighing
cling—and now logs an average of about 350 miles per
in at 31 pounds).
week—it’s partly about nostalgia and partly about not
What strikes me immediately about this man, affectionately known throughout the South Bay as Shirtless
wanting to stop. “It seems to help my mood a lot, and I feel good when
Keith, isn’t his deeply tanned skin and unconventional
I’m on the bike,” explains Keith. “I enjoy coming down
cycling attire comprised of no shirt, Wrangler jean shorts,
the hill. In the 1970s, I remember being in the car in the
leather belt, white tube socks and Caterpillar leather work
backseat. The wind would blow, the music would play and
boots. It’s seeing him with two feet on the ground.
it was like a short-term thrill. It’s kind of nostalgic when
For the past several years, I’ve heard his name en-
you’re coming downhill on the bike. I don’t like to be re-
thusiastically mentioned as being a local fixture and
stricted with a helmet, and it’s like a roller-coaster effect.
icon (he’s honked at regularly by drivers, praised by
You don’t want it to end, and it doesn’t have to end.”
passersby, cheered on by fans and stopped at traffic
He walks me through a typical day, which begins with
lights). I’ve grown accustomed to seeing him whipping
a hearty breakfast—a bowl of either Grape-Nuts or Raisin
by at lightning speed on just about every thoroughfare—
Bran—followed by the day’s ride and dinner he’s pre-
spanning the switchbacks at Marymount, Hawthorne
pared himself, usually chicken and rice. While we speak,
Boulevard, Crenshaw Boulevard, Vista Del Mar and the
I’m distracted by a glare coming from the bike and re-
Santa Monica Mountains.
flecting straight into my eye. Later, when Keith gives me
As we grab a table, Keith gently rests his bike against
a detailed overview of his bike, I realize it’s a Pop-Tart
the wall nearby and keeps a watchful eye on it as we chat.
perfectly curved around the seat post and attached with a
In the first few minutes we cover a few initial things: He
small bungee cord.
doesn’t wear a watch by choice. He doesn’t own a cell
He points out a bike pump underneath the frame, a
phone, and he doesn’t have internet. He doesn’t have
water bottle holder and a small odometer attached to the
cable TV. He hasn’t driven a car in 18 years, and he hasn’t
bike. He then empties each pocket filled with emergency
accepted a ride from anyone who has offered in years.
essentials: an extra set of tools, a replacement inner tube
He’s never broken a bone. He’s an avid baseball card col-
and a flattened Kellogg’s cereal bar. Although he doesn’t
lector (mainly 1960s rookie cards).
usually make a plan for each day’s route, he does have a
He’s gotten caught in Santa Ana winds, braved rain and
few favorite spots including Del Cerro Park in Palos Verdes
overcast days, and clocked upwards of 52 miles per hour
for the views, and a snack and soda at the Chevron station
downhill. He’s not interested in getting a road bike or
near Avenue I in Redondo Beach.
competing in the latest road race. He’s a humble man, an
“Most of the time, I let the bike take me,” says Keith.
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29
“I think it becomes more of a responsibility and a duty if you have a plan. A lot of times I just come out and see what happens.” His latest and proudest achievement is riding more than 240 miles to Santa Barbara and back in the same day. Keith helps with bike maintenance and repairs at a local bike shop and volunteers for a few hours every Friday around his neighborhood collecting trash (something he’s been doing for several years). He’s well aware of the swirling questions and bewilderment surrounding his lifestyle, why he eschews sponsors, and his selection of bike and workout gear. But he’s unfazed by it all. “People ask me a lot of questions, but I’m fueled by it,” he says. “It’s very encouraging, and I don’t take it for granted. If I accept things from people—which I don’t, but if I did—if you eliminate the struggle, you might lose sight of the motivation. So it’s always been better to use my own resources. It’s not so much a pride thing, but if they are doing the work for you, you’re not so independent anymore.” As far as his signature jean shorts, it’s about keeping it simple. “The less you have, the less you have to manage,” explains Keith, who has also been nicknamed Bootsy. “With these jean shorts, they are all the same color, the same shade. I don’t have to decide what I’m going to wear. And with no shirt, I don’t have to worry about laundry. I joke and tell guys that I have a shirt on layaway. I have one more payment to go.” Joking aside, he reveals he’s had some challenging and undesired moments on the road—including breaking his handlebars, having the crank fall off his bike, getting road rash and being unbearably cold. But after all these years, the bike has taught him some valuable lessons about time, defying gravity and the relationship to resistance, and the meaning of life. “I wake up, and that’s my goal. When I’m out there, I keep moving,” he says. “What I manage to do—and I don’t know how long I’m going to be able to get away with it—I don’t have to look at a phone or a watch, because it doesn’t matter what time it is. I don’t think you can put a price on it. I seem to have an abundance of time. I live for the moment. I think if you stick to one thing, like the bike, everything will fall into place.” ■
30
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“WHAT I MANAGE TO DO—AND I DON’T KNOW HOW LONG I’M GOING TO BE ABLE TO GET AWAY WITH IT—I DON’T HAVE TO LOOK AT A PHONE OR A WATCH, BECAUSE IT DOESN’T MATTER WHAT TIME IT IS. I DON’T THINK YOU CAN PUT A PRICE ON IT.”
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31
Topgolf Tees Off A DRIVING RANGE FOR THE DIGITAL AGE SPEARHEADS THE REVIVAL OF AN OLD-FAVORITE GOLF COURSE IN EL SEGUNDO. Written by Robert Earle Howells
Golf is a stuffy old game, as everyone knows, with arcane sartorial requirements and entrenched etiquette that proscribes boisterous laughter, loud music or any behavior that might distract from the task of hitting a tiny, dimpled ball. Did we mention that it’s kind of slow? Enter Topgolf. Exit stuffiness. Surely you’ve noticed the monolith arising beside PCH on that rare stretch of mostly open space between Rosecrans and El Segundo Boulevard, right next to The Lakes at El Segundo—a longtime local favorite ninehole golf course that now boasts 10 holes. 10? We’ll explain that shortly. The monolith is Topgolf, and it opened a couple of months ago—a driving range for the digital age, where golf meets sports bar meets video arcade meets let’sget-outta-the-office and have some fun. Topgolf is a 102-bay driving range where you can hone your swing, but that’s where the similarity to anything familiar ends. The range is arrayed with targets both drivable and chippable, while your tee is perched on a swath of artificial turf bordered by a video console that spits out your ball and then proceeds to record your swing in detail. Actually, what it records is the flight of your shot and all concomitant details, promptly replayed to your chagrin and the delight of your pals.
32
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THE TIGER TREATMENT
community. Phil Lopez, general manager of El Caballero
Topgolf treats your pathetic 90-yard shank with all the
Country Club in Tarzana, says, “I love Topgolf. It’s a
respect of CBS covering Tiger in Augusta. You get to see
ton of fun. More fun is good for the game, good for
the mighty arc of your ball’s flight and its subsequent
business all around. It’ll expose more people to golf and
landing, replete with stats such as ball speed, carry,
show them that it’s not only for elitist rich people.”
total distance, hang time and height—all in embarrassing detail. In a basic Topgolf game, you score points for dis-
Business has been brisk. Do some golfers miss just quietly hitting a bucket of balls? Maybe. But it’s pretty compelling to head out with pals and/or workmates for
tance and accuracy, and, of course, a leaderboard is
team building or partying. SpaceX has booked several
prominently displayed. You can play any number of
times. Paul George held a birthday party there. Justin
other digitally enhanced games, from a links version
Herbert from the Chargers has dropped by. Full disclo-
of Angry Birds to virtual reality rounds at St Andrews
sure: The parent company of this magazine, The Golden
or Pebble Beach.
State Company, recently held a Topgolf bash to help
The bays are arrayed in an arc high above the range
inaugurate its friendly new neighbor.
surface on three levels. You feel like you’re teeing off from the reserved seats at Dodger Stadium. Or maybe
LAKES COUNTRY
more like the private suites, since your bay is your
The advent of Topgolf shouldn’t overshadow the course
personal hangout for the duration of your visit. Six can
it’s attached to: The Lakes at El Segundo. The pairing is
play at a time at rates that range from $55 to $75 an
the first of its kind; normally Topgolf is a stand-alone
hour for the whole group.
operation. But here the promise of a course overhaul
Bar snacks, burgers, munchies, sandwiches, salads, flatbreads and drinks are delivered to your bayside
Segundo, which owns the course. A decade ago, The Lakes
table. Or you can wander off and order your own, in
was a tad ragged, and it wasn’t making much money.
which case you might get distracted by a giant video
When Topgolf waltzed in, it dangled what it thought
monitor the size of a drive-in movie screen showing
was a win-win-win for the city, for traditional golfers
whatever sport is in season.
and for itself. But it was a nine-year journey for Topgolf
It’s all good fun. And it’s a hit. (The El Segundo
naysayers were concerned that the Topgolfication of an
60 worldwide.) And you don’t have to be good to enjoy
old-favorite course would spell its demise.
“There are barriers to entry in traditional golf,”
“Credit the local golf community,” says Craig Kessler, public affairs director of the Southern
says Topgolf real estate director Tanner Micheli. “We
California Golf Association. “They insisted that Topgolf
want to make the game unintimidating to eliminate
be faithful to their message that they’re into the game
those barriers.”
of golf and committed to growing it.”
Peter Bowman, director of operations for El Segundo,
Hence arose an agreement to not only build a $40
echoes that. “At a normal facility, someone trying to
million driving range but to overhaul The Lakes and
learn is stressed and nervous,” he points out. “We
contribute $1.9 million annually to the city’s general
throw that out the window. Anyone can play here.”
fund. And also to retain the course’s exemplary junior
That’s further endorsed in the broader golf
|
to secure all the necessary local approvals. Plenty of
facility is the first in Los Angeles and one of more than it. Never swung a club before? Doesn’t matter.
34
helped smooth the way to an agreement with the city of El
program. The Lakes is home turf for the El Segundo
High School team and hosts a summer golf academy for kids. Peter Bowman points out that Topgolf has also created 500 new local jobs. The rehab of the course comprised extensive land-
from judiciously spaced speakers. And then there’s that aforementioned 10th hole. Call it a bonus hole, or call it your five minutes of fame. You’re on camera when you play it, as a huge banner on
scaping while keeping the course’s signature tall trees.
the backside of a giant screen proclaims: “JUST FYI—
Bunkers were reshaped and refreshed with new sand, and
EVERYONE IS WATCHING.” Meaning the crowd up in
once-bumpy greens were retailored with new bent grass.
the Topgolf bays can see the front side of the screen and
The clubhouse and retail shop are new and truly lovely.
snigger at your pathetic drive off the tee. More likely,
Was the course Topgolfified? Sure, to an extent. But no one’s complaining about new lights and night golf
though, they’re focused on their own intense game of Angry Birds. They’re thoroughly Topgolfified. ■
till 11 p.m., or the music spilling out across the fairways
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35
THE FACE OF
LAW
LEAVING A LEGACY The attorneys of Guzman Law Group assist clients in preparing for the future. WRITTEN BY LAURA L. WATTS | PHOTOGRAPHED BY MARISA GUZMÁN-ALOIA
L
ife brings lots of changes, and those changes can significantly impact your future and that of your loved ones. After more than three decades of advocat-
ing for the South Bay community through a variety of legal services, Guzman Law Group has become a voice of consistency—a trusted advisor—through changing times. Led by founder and attorney Denise M. Guzman, this Manhattan Beach-based law
“I APPLY AS MUCH PASSION AND CARE TO OUR CLIENTS’ MATTERS AS I WOULD TO MY OWN PERSONAL MATTERS.”
firm guides clients through business and finance transactions, trust and civil litigation, estate planning and trust administration.
business formations and acquisitions serves
level of security and relief is what both
With the firm’s wide breadth of legal services
the family businesses he works with to cre-
Marcus and Jane do best, and that is part
and collaborative approach, Guzman Law
ate their corporate succession and estate
of what makes them—and Guzman Law
Group excels at assisting clients in matters
plan, and he uses a collaborative style in
Group—the Face of Law in the South Bay.
that combine multiple facets of law—includ-
guiding family members through difficult
ing preparing estate plans, administration
trust administrations.
“My inspiration comes from my desire to please my clients, whether it is providing
of trusts and the probate of estates. The firm
“My clients see me as a guide,” he says,
information to help them better understand
works with both individuals and family busi-
“whether it is in estate planning, where I pro-
their situation or acting as their advocate, or
nesses to preserve and protect their wishes.
vide them with options to help accomplish
shield, when necessary,” Marcus shares. “I
their goals for their estate plan based on
apply as much passion and care to our cli-
providing for the preservation of your wealth
“Anticipating the needs of your estate and
their assets and desires, or in the adminis-
ents’ matters as I would to my own personal
while you are still living is one of the greatest
tration of a trust or probate estate, where I
matters, and I believe our clients see that.”
gifts you can give subsequent generations of
help them navigate the process and support
your family or nonprofit organizations that
them in dealing with family dynamics.”
you wish to support,” says Denise. Attorneys Marcus Chang and Jane S. Lee
Jane is an associate attorney working pri-
“Marcus and Jane are assets to our firm,” states Denise. “They are both caring and insightful, detailed-oriented and diligent.
marily in the areas of estate planning, trust
Their multifaceted viewpoints and legal
assist clients with their estate plans while
and probate administration. She earned
experience make the process as easy as
bringing different perspectives based on
a JD degree and a Master of Laws degree
possible for our clients.”
their experience and areas of expertise.
in taxation. Before joining the firm in 2019,
Marcus is a business, trust and probate
she assisted individuals and businesses with
attorney whose career began in the
developing efficient and strategic tax-plan-
GUZMAN LAW GROUP, PC
Phoenix, Arizona, prosecutor’s office. In 2013,
ning solutions.
1230 ROSECRANS AVENUE, SUITE 650,
he found his home at Guzman Law Group
Protecting assets and ensuring that their
MANHATTAN BEACH
in the fields of business, estate planning and
wishes will be carried out are services that
310-321-6640
trust administration. Marcus’ knowledge of
give clients peace of mind. Providing that
GUZMANLG.COM
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
L to R: Jane S. Lee, Estate Planning Attorney Marcus Chang, Estate Planning and Business Attorney
A Good Grilling THE AUTHOR OF MANHATTAN BEACH TUNA MELT SHARES HIS SECRET RECIPE FOR SOUTH BAY SATIRE. Interviewed by Darren Elms | Photographed by Jeff Berting
He never intended to make his identity a secret or to go
range. Racing over, we pulled up to a home with a car
public either, really. But as author of the popular social
on blocks in the driveway, wet suits over the front
media news parody Manhattan Beach Tuna Melt, Zane
balcony. During our tour, the homeowner was cutting a
Stoddard remained a mystery to his many fans. Without
raw piece of steak directly on the countertop, shirt-
a name attached to the posts, many around town won-
less. His teen son, also shirtless, was lying on the couch
dered, “Just who is the guy behind the spot-on satire
watching TV. These people hate shirts and don’t want
send-ups of life in Manhattan Beach?” Enter Zane, who
to sell their home. Every door lock in the home was
offered to tell us a little about himself, how he came to
broken, windows cracked, holes punched in the drywall
the South Bay and what inspires his humorous take on
everywhere, and the carpet was sticky with cat pee.
the town he loves.
Persuaded by my dad to look beyond the aesthetics (location, location, location)—and stunned we were
Now that the word is out that you’re the
able to get so close to the beach—we bought the home.
man behind Manhattan Beach Tuna Melt, tell
Shortly thereafter, we learned the prior homeowners
us a little about yourself.
sold drugs out of the house, and one of the sons was on
I grew up in an idyllic little town outside San Francisco
trial for attempted murder. Sweet. The neighbors all but
called Danville—my first taste of perfect people with no
threw us a ticker-tape parade when we moved in.
problems. After graduating from college (the University
Renovations, additions and 11 years later, now with
of Arizona), I only made it halfway home. With friends
our first child and looking to knock a little time off
in Los Angeles and my mom having grown up down
my then Century City commute, we sold and moved
here, I never left.
to Manhattan Beach. A decade now in Manhattan, two
Years later, after getting married, my wife and I had
kids, and we absolutely love the people and community.
sold our home in Culver City and were looking around L.A. for our next home. We’d had a few friends in the
What has been your professional life?
South Bay, so on a whim we told our Realtor to throw
I’ve spent my 25+ year career in sports and entertain-
in a few listings from there—barely serious about actu-
ment at the NBA, Nike and NASCAR. I had the fortune
ally living there.
of opening the NBA’s L.A. office, managing both it and
Days later our Realtor sent us a listing in Hermosa.
the L.A. office for NASCAR for a couple decades. Over
Looking at the map on the listing, we were shocked
the last three years, I’ve been working on several start-
that it was four blocks from the water and in our price
up projects.
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How did the idea of Manhattan Beach Tuna
about it. There are some food names that just sound
Melt come about, and how did you come up
funny to me. And a tuna melt is sloppy but tasty—and
with the name?
of course unhealthy—which based on the healthy-
Zero plan. I love to write (journalism degree). I’ve
veggie-snack parent monsters around here, is kind of a
always been the quiet guy who stands on the side and
great juxtaposition. Other than that, it’s just meant to
observes. And humor is my favorite way to connect with
be fun and a bit off the wall.
people. I have a hard time connecting with people with no humor. I also feel like there’s so much pressure in
Manhattan Beach Tuna Melt is certainly a
places like this town—particularly with men—to look
witty and satirical lens on the South Bay,
perfect, like we have it all together. The consequence is
but it always hits home with a good-
that people—particularly the men—often act so serious
natured wink. How do you strike that
around each other. Too much time talking about the
balance with your humor?
stock market and blockchain.
I think the formula for me is, and always has been with
So a few months ago, I decided I’d throw up an Instagram account and lightheartedly take a pin to the
kernel of truth to it, then blow it to smithereens with
balloon of the perfection mirage around here. Clearly
bone-dry exaggeration. The kernel of truth is what
painfully exaggerated in most cases, but the topics tend
makes it relatable; the exaggeration softens the blow.
to have some truth. And most of the time, I’d include
The closer to the bone you get, without nicking the
myself in the things I make fun of. I didn’t expect any-
bone, the more people engage.
one to really care, but I thought it’d be fun to do it for
I’ve had some fun with East vs. West Manhattan
myself—to get all these observations out of my head.
Beach. I live on the west side of town, and most of my
As far as the Tuna Melt name goes, nothing scientific
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my personal humor, to find something with at least a
friends on the east side have nicer homes than I do (and
What do you think it is about Manhattan Beach Tuna Melt that strikes a chord with your followers? Going back to that kernel of truth in the posts, I think because it’s relatable and personal to this area we all personalize and love. It’s a connection point. As I mentioned, this is a culture around here where people work super hard at maintaining an image of perfection: “no problems here” (which doesn’t apply to any of us). So I think in some ways things like the Tuna Melt can help release the valve a little, letting some of the pressure out … or the facade down.
Do you have a favorite post? There are quite a few of them, but I probably favor the ones about the dads here the most. I’m a dad. There a yard and parking), so I have fun picking a fight where
are so many incredible, dedicated dads in this town.
one didn’t exist. You hope people get the ridiculous-
But I think there’s a tremendous amount of pressure
ness of acting like East Manhattan is some third-world
to project stoicism and invulnerability here. Lots of
country. If they don’t, not sure I got anything for ya.
frat-guy energy around here. I like pulling the rug out
In terms of being good-natured, I work hard to
from under that with jokes about things like dad-naps
keep things enjoyable. Nasty or personal isn’t enjoy-
(power dude doesn’t take naps!); dad-schemes (they
able to me. I typically write the edgiest version I can
think mom isn’t aware, but of course she is, like the
think of, then my wife pulls it back from there. My
Adventure Guides drinking racket); the emascula-
plumb line has been “no victims.” Manhattan and the
tion of dad’s complete lack of handiness (getting lost
surrounding communities are some of the nicest in
trying to find Home Depot). A wink and a nod to the
the world. People outside enjoy making fun of people
moms, and hopefully a little release for the dads from
like us (largely warranted), and people like us love
all the Sigma Chi guy ju. The reality is, whether they
the backhanded compliments (“Yes, as a matter of
know it or not, we dads are a spectacularly hilarious
fact, I do drive a Tesla, wear Vuori to bed and vaca-
species to observe.
tion in the Maldives”). Even as I try hard to be good-natured and mix
What’s next for Manhattan Beach Tuna Melt?
things up, after 250 posts it’s clear what the red meat
I have no idea. Some days I have big ideas, and others I
is for this crowd. Like a lion on a desert carcass, Tuna
decide I’ll just do it until it’s no longer fun. Maybe I’ll
Melters devour (good-natured) class warfare—even if
be 92, drooling on my couch, still trying to come up
it’s fabricated. East Manhattan vs. West, Porto vs. Hill
with funny posts that no one thinks are funny anymore.
Section. I try to mix things up, but the mob cries out
Or maybe I’ll get bored tomorrow and never post again.
for the tri-tip.
We’ll see. ■
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more than words SEAN HILL WANTS TO LEAVE THIS WORLD A BETTER PLACE, AND HE HOPES HIS POETRY INSPIRES YOU TO DO THE SAME. Written by Amber Klinck | Photographed by Monica Orozco
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In some way, large or small, cancer has touched most of our lives. In Sean Hill’s case, the disease has stolen
Sean’s grandfather (his mother’s father) passed away from liver cancer. “His story is a classic hardworkingimmigrant story,” Sean says. “He left Colombia and got a job in New York with Pan Am airline when they
a grandfather, an uncle and a dear
were still in business. He was an engineer and saved up
family friend. It also threatened to
enough money to bring over his whole family.”
take the lives of his parents. So when Sean’s friend Trice Johnson, a cyclist
It was that hard work and sacrifice that enabled Sean’s parents to meet in Harlem. “They met at a Kodak shop,” Sean notes. “He saw her face, and he fell
at CycleBar, suggested the actor and
in love with her so quickly. All he could see was her
poet speak at the ninth annual Tour
face because it was winter, and it was so cold.” The pair eventually moved to Los Angeles. “It’s a
de Pier—a Manhattan Beach event
magical story to think about for sure,” Sean says, “a
that raises funds for cancer research
living love poem.”
and support—Sean jumped at the opportunity. “Anything with cancer-related organizations, I’m to-
Raised in Inglewood, Sean has two older brothers and one older sister. “I remember my brother always sharing with me these rap poems he would do. He was a good kid with bad timing, and he got caught up in a gang. There
tally going to support,” he says. “And once I got there,
was a lot of teenage angst in the poetry but in such a
it was magic—good-hearted people and a good atmo-
vivid way. It was easy to connect with what he was feel-
sphere. Reading in front of people cycling was definitely
ing or going through. I always felt good after he’d share
a new experience as a poet. It was so fun.”
that. I always felt like I wanted to do that too.”
Sean was only a kid when his mother was diagnosed
Sean started experimenting with his own writing style.
with thyroid cancer. “I don’t remember it being big and
“It was just silly poems at first. Gangster rap was big
scary,” he says. “I remember it felt like a sad time, or
at the time, so I’d pretend to write a gangster rap kind
maybe that we weren’t as happy in the moment. It felt
of poem, but it never felt right. It was when I started
like something was off, and I remember just wanting to
writing about things that were real to me, or personal to
treat her nice.”
me, that I started getting the actual benefits—healing
His father’s diagnosis felt different. Sean was older,
and creative. And whenever my brother shared with me,
and so was his dad. The news carried more weight—
I noticed that’s what he was doing too. He was getting
even if the delivery was somewhat lighthearted.
healed every time. He felt better every time.”
“He’s such a funny guy,” Sean notes as he describes
In order to get his brother away from the gang,
the way his father announced he was sick. Sean, his sis-
Sean’s family moved him to New York. “Gangs are
ter and his dad were watching a show or movie together.
not much into the two-week-notice kind of stuff,” he
“There was a character that had cancer and he said
notes. “You either leave through jail, or you leave by
something like, ‘Oh man, that’s rough. Well, I got that.’”
getting killed. You just have to get out and not tell any-
Once the initial shock wore off, the family was relieved
one. So we did that and sent him to New York to live
to learn the cancer was discovered early. Both Sean’s
with our grandmother.” Sean would visit, and the two
mother and father were lucky. “They recovered,” Sean
would write letters back and forth.
says. “My dad’s still recovering right now from a recent
Sean met his next writing influence in high school. “I
cancer just last year. He’s had cancer three times now.”
had a creative writing teacher named Mr. Klima. He was
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“WHEN I GOT TO COLLEGE, IT GOT REAL FOR ME, WHEN I LEARNED HOW MUCH POETRY HAS INFLUENCED GREAT MINDS, GREAT LEADERS, GREAT THINKERS … THE POWER IN EFFECTIVE LANGUAGE.” that super outgoing, enthusiastic, supportive teacher. The way he inspired me was like everything a young kid
He says, “I’m trying to do a combination of theatre, of
needs at the time.”
poetry, a little splash of hip-hop, a rhythm and flavor
As a youth, Sean was introduced to writing as a form of creative expression. It could be playful, cathartic, whatever you needed or wanted it to be. As he got older, he discovered how much power words could wield. “When I got to college, it got real for me,” Sean
But he goes a bit further than engagement. Sean wants to empower his audience. “What kind of solutions exist in the world that feel real for people, or feel palpable, or give people an inspiration that feels like they can do something to make
enced great minds, great leaders, great thinkers … the
this world better? I started thinking that in every poem,
power in effective language.”
I want to put enough of a vision, enough of a problem and enough empowerment to give by the end,” he
sharing poetry. “A lot of people share therapeutically
explains. “Because once you feel like you’re infinitely
to get things off their chest with very personal, very
capable of something, then what would stop you?”
intimate poems. Some poems are trying to convince you
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Tour de
of something to believe in, a cause or something bigger
Pier, and once again, Sean was happy to participate.
than yourself. And there are so many abstract poems,
“To read to this very large outdoor room, so many
where I’m like, ‘I don’t even know who I am right now
things are happening visually. There are people dressed
after that poem. Is this all a dream? Am I even real?
up in costumes. There are families rooting for riders.
What did you just do to me, bro?’”
There’s a bit of everything,” he says.
Sean wasn’t trying to do something that had never
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that draws in enough people.”
shares, “when I learned how much poetry has influ-
He took a hard look at the different ways people were
48
But he did want his poetry to engage his audience.
With so many people coming together to ride in soli-
been done before. “A lot of the stuff I’m saying has
darity against cancer, Sean’s words of empowerment
already been out there; it already exists.”
are exactly what they need to hear. ■
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raised in water WITH THE HELP OF BRAZILIAN PROFESSIONAL SURFER JULIANO UZUELLI, A YOUNG PROTÉGÉ TAKES HIS SKILLS TO THE NEXT LEVEL. Written by Amber Klinck | Photographed by Jeff Berting
Giovanni (Gio) DiCarlo has been a
But it was on a surfboard that he felt the most en-
little grom-in-the-making since
gaged. “The good thing about surfing is the ocean and
before he could walk. His parents, Taya and Vinnie DiCarlo, have been taking him to the beach since he was a newborn. “We’d take him down to the pier in the mornings,
gies,” he says. “Surfing is not a sport; it’s a lifestyle.” In 2016 the 26-year-old Brazilian moved to California. He started in San Diego before eventually landing in the South Bay. The first two years he was here, Juliano was focused on his training—and he did well. He won first place in the South Bay Boardriders
sand and watch the people in the water. You could see
Surf Series in both 2018 and 2019.
start to venture out.” As Gio got older, the beach days got longer. During the summer of 2020, the DiCarlos spent more time in
Surfing has taken him to Florida, Hawaii, Barbados, the Dominican Republic and Peru. Today he’s ranked #33 in North America by the World Surf League. As Juliano’s recognition grew, so did the attention he
the water than ever. “During COVID we really didn’t
received from locals. “The community started to notice
have a lot of things to do other than be at the beach,”
me a little bit and started asking me if I could coach
Vinnie notes. “We’d be there sometimes seven, eight
their kids,” he says.
hours a day. Gio would switch from a skimboard to a
One of those kids is Kai Kushner, the son of profes-
boogie board to whatever. He just wanted to stay in the
sional surfer and South African native Warren Kushner.
water and stay active.”
“Kai is 15 now, but I started working with him when he
Before long the 6-year-old was trying to stand on his
was 10 or 11,” Juliano says. “Now he’s Team USA. I’m
boogie board, when he caught the attention of another
so proud to tell this because we’ve worked really hard
ocean enthusiast. “I see this guy in the summer surfing
for a long time, and he’s right there.”
with a boogie board by himself for hours,” notes pro-
Gio, now 8 years old, has been training with Juliano
fessional surfer and surf coach Juliano Uzuelli. “I see he
since October 2020. “Three times a week, usually before
has something—he has potential.”
school around 6 a.m. in very cold water—this kid is
The DiCarlos had noticed Juliano as well. “I would see him in the mornings coaching kids and adults,”
tough,” Juliano says. Every time he paddles out, Gio gets a little bit stron-
Vinnie says. “He has this ability to work with both older
ger. But it’s the mental hurdles he overcomes while
people and younger kids, to be patient but also to push
surfing that translate into everyday life.
them and drive them to try something new. I just knew he’d be good with Gio.” Growing up, Juliano was also a water baby. “I’m
“It is so good to see his mood change, because sometimes he will say, ‘I cannot make it; this is not possible,’” Juliano says. “I don’t understand—why is it
from a small island in Brazil; my backyard was the
not possible? And then he turns and he’s asking me if
beach. The only thing to do was surf,” he says.
we can stay out for one more hour.”
When he wasn’t in the water, Juliano was on a skate-
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going to happen, so you have to create different strate-
just to pass the time,” Vinnie says. “He’d sit on the him getting excited, and then slowly but surely he’d
52
Mother Nature always rule. You never know what’s
When asked what he likes about surfing, Gio gets
board. “I was a national champion in Brazil at 10 years
straight to the point. “I just like it,” he says. “Except
old,” he notes. “I would skate all the time.”
when I get smashed by big waves.”
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“THE GOOD THING ABOUT SURFING IS THE OCEAN AND MOTHER NATURE ALWAYS RULE. YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT’S GOING TO HAPPEN, SO YOU HAVE TO CREATE DIFFERENT STRATEGIES.”
In the short time he’s been training, Gio has ranked first overall for his age group at the 2021–2022 South Bay Boardriders Surf Series. “He doesn’t know his potential; he just does it,’ Juliano says. Gio is inspired by surfers like Kelly Slater and John John Florence. “But my favorite surfer that I’ve ever seen is Kai Lenny. He does aerials on 80-foot waves,” he says. Like Juliano, when Gio’s not in the water he’s carving up the pavement on his skateboard. His brown hair is more like beige-blond after so many sun-drenched days in the water. He’s come a long way from standing on his boogie board. “Yesterday he rode a 4’8” for the first time, and it was perfect,” Juliano notes. “Do you think I’m old enough for kitesurfing?” Gio asks his coach. “Kitesurfing? I think you need to be a little bit stronger right here,” Juliano says pointing to the 8-yearold’s chest. “It’s dangerous, you are too light, the winds can take you.” Gio pauses to think. “I want to aerial,” he says. ■
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Beach Meets Streets MOI QUINN OF TOMORROWS BAD SEEDS TURNED A CHALLENGING CHILDHOOD INTO A PASSION FOR PERFORMANCE. Written & photographed by Kat Monk | Photographed at Total Access Rehearsal Studio
Hermosa Valley School’s sixth grade talent show was
language. But he takes pride in his complex upbringing,
the first time Moi J. Quinn ever sang in public. He
acknowledging that his life experiences helped shape
informed his teacher, Mrs. Eichenlaub, that he wanted
who he is today—a tenacious go-getter who makes
to perform a Whitney Houston song a cappella. “My
things happen for himself. “I like to say my life is one
teacher thought I was trippin’,” remembers Moi, who
foot in the beach and one foot in the streets,” he says.
today is the lead singer of the band Tomorrows Bad
Moi credits “b-boying,” or break dancing, as giving
Seeds. Although he might have been nervous, he nailed
him the confidence that he needed to return to singing.
it and, to everyone’s surprise, delivered a stunning,
He joined a hip-hop team and became well known as
unforgettable performance.
a member of the West Coast Rockers. Break dancing
Growing up around R&B and classic rock, Moi learned how to sing by listening to Stevie Wonder, The Rolling
inspired Moi to share his voice with the public again. Moi didn’t sing consistently until he tried out for a
Stones, The Beatles and Sade. “I followed the musical
reality television show that looked for singers during
runs and tried to copy them,” he explains.
the end of his high school years. Popstars, an interna-
Moi has led an extraordinary life—the type that
tional reality competition show, was short-lived with
typically inspires a television series. His dad is from
only two seasons, but Moi was one of six winners dur-
Mexico, and his mother is Scottish. Their relationship
ing the second season signed by Warner Brothers and
did not last very long. When he was young, Moi’s mom
put in a house in Sherman Oaks to work on a record.
agreed that his father could take him and his younger
Unfortunately, the perks evaporated for various rea-
sister to Mexico for two weeks. That two-week trip
sons, including the economic impact resulting from the
lasted five years. Afraid his children would take life for
terrorist attack on the World Trade Center in New York
granted, his father—formidable at the time—demanded
City on September 11, 2001.
his kids be exposed to his influences and culture.
In search of a new direction, Moi went home to
Those five years in Mexico were hard on Moi, as he
regroup. While surfing at the break wall in Redondo
didn’t speak Spanish and was often bullied in school.
Beach, he met guitar player and turntablist Matthew
The stark differences between the United States and
McEwan. They bonded over their recent breakups and
Mexico, especially the extreme poverty, made an im-
soon started jamming on songs by Bob Marley, Steel
pression on him. He came back to the Hermosa Beach
Pulse, Slightly Stoopid and Sublime. Tomorrows Bad
school system a changed boy.
Seeds was born and quickly became a staple in the
After those years in Mexico, Moi experienced bullying again—this time for his deficiencies in the English
Southern California music scene. While performing on the main stage at BeachLife
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59
Festival 2021, Moi gave his Uncle Mike a shout-out. Uncle Mike is his #1 fan. When Moi was young, Mike introduced him to the beach culture including surfing and reggae music. “I am so proud of where Moi is in life, and I tear up every single time I see a Tomorrows Bad Seeds show,” explains Mike. “I am very proud to be his uncle and love him very much.” Now there is no looking back for Moi, who is equipped with the talent and confidence to pursue his dreams as a singer. “I enjoy performing and working hard,” he says, “so I do what I love, and none of it feels like work.” ■
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“I LIKE TO SAY MY LIFE IS ONE FOOT IN THE BEACH AND ONE FOOT IN THE STREETS.”
C AT E G O R Y
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
L to R: Nia Quiñonez-Kurnick, Wesley Cheung, Olivia Buckler and Teame Tekeste
THREE TIMES THE CHARM The Rolling Hills Prep family of schools maximizes each student’s potential not only academically but also in their perspectives, opportunities and relationships. WRITTEN BY JACQUELINE OLIVIER & LAURA L. WATTS | PHOTOGRAPHED BY TAMEKA JACOBS
S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G S E C T I O N
T
S C H O O L S P OT L I G H T
hree Great Schools—One Vibrant
of new friends, and I have improved a lot in
Community. That’s how the Rolling
math and writing. I wrote an autobiography
Hills Prep (RHP) family of schools
recently and have done a lot of informa-
describes its South Bay campus.
tional writing. Ms. Josie gave me confidence.
Founded in 1981, the group has grown from
She has taught me a lot of vocabulary and
a single high school to a multi-school institu-
annotations, and I feel ready to learn more
tion serving a diverse student population in
advanced skills.”
grades 1–12. Rolling Hills Preparatory School’s board of
TEAME TEKESTE
“IF YOU LIVE A LIFE OF FEAR, YOU ONLY LIVE HALF A LIFE. YOU’RE NOT LIVING YOUR FULLEST IF YOU CLOSE YOUR MIND TO WHAT IS OUTSIDE.”
trustees created Renaissance School in 2004
Teame Tekeste just completed his first year
to “light the fire” of learning in a broad range
at Rolling Hills Prep. He prefers the experi-
of students who learn differently. In 2019
ence of a smaller school. “I’m more respon-
REACH School joined the team to serve stu-
sible this year—keeping up on my assign-
dents of younger ages who need additional
ments, deadlines, projects and homework,”
support due to academic or social issues.
he says. “RHP is a very inclusive and diverse
Both Renaissance and REACH offer a unique
community and is open to all education
education with an enhanced level of support
levels, whether advanced or struggling.
she developed while attending the RHP
and accommodations for students.
Everyone is included.”
schools when she auditioned for Macbeth
That the schools offer outstanding aca-
The support of his teachers, such as Mr.
and was surprised to be cast for a part.
demics is well understood in the community.
Brammah—whom he describes as “very
But what’s particularly special about the RHP
welcoming and inclusive”—helped Teame
and being directed by Mr. Robinson,” she
family of schools is how they celebrate each
increase his interest in math and science,
says. “He opened my mind to the theatre
student’s uniqueness by creating individual-
especially biology. He plans to continue the
world and the fact that there are many ways
ized pathways that address their specific
specialized diploma track for math and sci-
of being creative and you aren’t bound by
passions, talents and needs. Signature pro-
ence next year, when he will be a junior. He
a single idea.” She went on to lead a film
grams in addition to academics include the
feels RHP is a great learning environment
club on campus, and with her teacher Mr.
arts, sciences, athletics, outdoor education
that offers each student specialized oppor-
Blanchette she helped direct the Advocates
and more. An education at Rolling Hills Prep,
tunities to excel.
for Diversity club.
Renaissance and REACH makes a huge difference in the lives of each student.
Teame also loves playing basketball. He
“After Macbeth, I was hooked on acting
Nia points out that participating in theatre
feels that since his first year with the junior
at RHP taught her to trust her creativity and
varsity team, he has gotten increasingly bet-
let her voice be heard. This has given her the
WESLEY CHEUNG
ter—especially with shooting two-point shots
confidence to ask for support from her col-
Wesley Cheung has attended REACH School
(his favorite). He also has developed an
lege professors when she needs it.
for two years and is moving to Renaissance
appreciation for art, which he wasn’t all that
this fall when he begins eighth grade. He
fond of. “Photography was really interesting.
OLIVIA BUCKLER
distinguished himself at REACH with his
I learned about framing, orientation and
Olivia Buckler was the 2022 valedictorian
knowledge of marine biology—“a passion I
angles, and now I take much better photos,”
for Renaissance School—an unexpected
still hold to this day,” he shares.
he explains. “I also like drawing and painting
honor and surprise. She says her teachers
a lot more.”
listened to her, encouraged her, pushed
Wesley made huge leaps this past year in several subjects—particularly writing, which
her to do more and always made her
has always been a struggle for him. He attri-
NIA QUIÑONEZ-KURNICK
butes his success to his reading, writing and
A 2021 graduate of Renaissance School,
math teacher, Ms. Josie, who has made quite
Nia Quiñonez-Kurnick just completed her
her opportunities she would not have had
an impact on him.
first year at McDaniel College in Maryland.
otherwise, such as serving as president of
There she is majoring in cinema—a passion
SPEAK (Students Promoting Encouragement
“I had a great year,” he says. “I made a lot
feel welcome. She feels that the smaller school size gave
|
63
S C H O O L S P OT L I G H T
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Olivia Buckler
“I LOVE THE SCHOOLS SO MUCH BECAUSE OF THE INCLUSIVITY AND UNDERSTANDING THEY HAVE GIVEN ME.” 64
|
And Kindness). “Now I’m successful and have
even taking AP classes was seamless. You
gone to a school that allows me to do well
are not less than because you have learning
and gives me tools—that’s why school is my
differences. I was truly just a kid like every-
passion,” she says.
one else.”
With plans to attend the University of
Olivia comes across as a self-assured
Southern California this fall, Olivia wants to
student, but it wasn’t always that way.
pursue a career path as an infectious dis-
“This is what has really changed being at
ease specialist. She embraces her learning
Renaissance,” she explains. “I used to put up
differences and the fact that she has ADHD,
a front, but now I am smiling for a reason
dyscalculia and dyslexia.
and am happy to talk with people about it.
“I love the schools so much because of the inclusivity and understanding they have given me,” she says of the RHP family of schools. “I have a lot of confidence now, and
I’m involved, I’m a student ambassador and I can speak my mind adequately.” These four students want to see others maximize their potential, achieve success
S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G S E C T I O N
S C H O O L S P OT L I G H T
Science teacher Jonny Brammah and Teame Tekeste
and reach their goals just like they have. “Try to not get discouraged, be patient and work
but still have fun.” We’re sure these bright, thoughtful stu-
hard,” Wesley advises. Nia suggests taking
dents and their classmates have the tools
risks: “If you live a life of fear, you only live
they need to make a difference wherever
half a life. You’re not living your fullest if you
their path leads them next—thanks to the
close your mind to what is outside.”
foundation instilled in them by this trinity of
Teame’s advice for rising high schoolers
exceptional schools.
is to learn how to manage your time, split up your homework with your outside hours, always finish your work and be organized.
ROLLING HILLS PREP,
And Olivia recommends trying clubs to get
RENAISSANCE & REACH SCHOOLS
to know other people, as well as this advice:
ONE ROLLING HILLS PREP WAY
“Enjoy being a student. Keep looking at the
SAN PEDRO | 310-791-1101
goal of college and getting good grades,
ROLLINGHILLSPREP.ORG
“RHP IS A VERY INCLUSIVE AND DIVERSE COMMUNITY AND IS OPEN TO ALL EDUCATION LEVELS.” |
65
xxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxx XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX Written by Xxxxxxx Xxxxxx | Photographed by Xxxxxxxx Xxxxxx
down to earth AS FARM MANAGER FOR CATALINA VIEW GARDENS IN PALOS VERDES, NICK ZETTS LEADS WITH SUSTAINABILITY AND CULTIVATES A FUTURE FOR URBAN AGRICULTURE. Written by Diane E. Barber | Photographed by Shane O’Donnell
xxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxx XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX Written by Xxxxxxx Xxxxxx | Photographed by Xxxxxxxx Xxxxxx
Nick Zetts began his love affair with
72 Peace Corps projects in school creativity for kids
nature during his childhood in rural
from kindergarten through high school, and we won the
Virginia. Dirt roads, fishing ponds, open fields, forests, wildlife and a nearby river set the stage for his countless boyhood adventures with his two brothers. “We played outside every day until it was dark. Some of my best memories are of listening to the cicadas and whip-poor-wills at night,” he remembers. After Nick graduated from high school, he stud-
He then spent his last year on Isabela Island developing agritourism projects and working with people on small farms. “They knew how to farm, but we shared a cultural exchange that added value to what they were doing—such as compost production and organic vegetable techniques. When I was in Ecuador, I kept thinking, ‘This is how I want to live!’” When Nick finished serving in the Peace Corps, he returned home to earn his graduate degree in agriculture at Virginia Tech. He also volunteered for a
Commonwealth University before he joined the U.S.
nonprofit organization as a bilingual instructor training
Coast Guard for four years. “I was always fascinated
farmers in pesticide safety, which was a free service for
with travel and the natural world,” he shares. “I knew
growers that was required by law. When he completed
the exact ship that I wanted to be assigned to, and I
his education, he relocated to California to join his older
got on it. I spent time in the Arctic and Antarctica and
brother in Napa Valley and turn the page on another
saw penguins, whales, sea lions, polar bears and other
adventurous life chapter. “I worked at a winery and gave tours for a while be-
He was stationed in the Florida Keys for two years
fore I went to work as the garden manager for Mustards
and lived on a sailboat while pursuing an A.A. degree
Grill,” he says. “I was there for a couple of years before
at a local community college. He then transferred
I met the vineyard consultant for Jim York’s Catalina
to Virginia Tech’s College of Natural Resources and
View Gardens, who basically recruited me. Jim and his
Environment. As luck—or perhaps fate—would have it,
wife, Kathy, came to see me when they were on a road
a chance meeting in his home state became the inspira-
trip and invited me to visit their farm in Rancho Palos
tion for his commitment to sustainable farming.
Verdes. I was intrigued by the bigger challenge and the
“I met a local mountain man at a craft fair who needed a helper on his small organic farm that he named
opportunity to learn a new skill with the vineyard.” He has been their farm manager since 2016. Says his
Dat Dar Mini Farm,” he shares. “I worked for him in ex-
boss, Jim, “Nick has been an outstanding addition to
change for room and board while earning my bachelor’s
lead our agricultural activities—particularly with grow-
degree in fisheries science. He taught me a lot.”
ing excellent quality wine grapes next to the ocean.”
The farming experience later helped Nick qualify for
Nick wears his lifelong passion for nature on his
an agriculture program with the Peace Corps. “I wanted
sleeve, and sustainable farming is undoubtedly his
to go anywhere in Latin America and was fortunate to
calling. The Catalina View Gardens vineyard, which is
go to Ecuador in 2006. I spent two years in the Andes
harvested manually, is his primary responsibility. He
Mountains and one year in the Galápagos.”
also manages the avocado and citrus groves, along with
While in the mountains, he created a school garden with kindergarten children and their mothers to teach them about organic farming and nutrition. “There were
|
arship and a laptop computer for her studies.”
ied biology during his freshman year at Virginia
wildlife. It was very exciting.”
68
competition,” he says. “The teacher was given a schol-
various vegetable crops. “Modern agriculture needs to find a balance,” he explains. “We will always disrupt some things but can do
|
69
it while taking a regenerative and holistic approach to
healthy for the earth because healthy microorganisms,
farming. If we allow it, the natural order of things will
insects and earthworms all die when exposed to the sun
keep everything in harmony. We simply need to provide
after the soil is turned. Stored carbon is also emitted into
the conditions to create a rich habitat, such as better-
the environment. Modern industrial farming kills soils
ing our soil by adding composting for fertilization and
and uses chemicals. No-till farming keeps the structure
incorporating cover crops in the winter.”
of soil the same with minimal disruption,” he explains.
According to Nick, the soil on the farm is loosened
70
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Water usage to minimize waste during irrigation is
and aerated by hand and spading, which chops the soil.
also a key environmental consideration on the farm.
“Tilling, which more commonly turns soil over, is not
The cover crops that enrich the soil are planted to
retain water, and the clay soil naturally holds water.
and hawks,” says Ann Lynch, the founder and direc-
Drip systems are also used for suitable crops.
tor of South Bay Wildlife Rehab. “The rodents eat the
Nick takes a natural approach to pest control, which
poison and then move out into the wild, where they are
includes netting the grapes to protect them from birds
eaten by raptors that are secondarily poisoned. These
and installing owl nesting boxes to encourage a raptor
birds keep the rat and mouse population in check natu-
population on the property for gopher control instead of
rally.” Nick often sees the owls sitting on fence posts at
using environmentally hazardous poison.
night, hunting for active gophers.
“When people use poison, there is a great risk of poisoning our best preventers of rodents, which are owls
In addition to being a proud steward of the earth, Nick enjoys his involvement in Catalina View Gardens’
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71
“SUSTAINABILITY IS A LIFESTYLE AND A WAY OF THINKING. IT SHOULD NOT BE A TREND. THE MASSES ARE BECOMING MORE AWARE OF IT NOW, BUT EFFECTIVE CHANGE NEEDS TO COME FROM THE TOP DOWN. BIG INDUSTRY NEEDS TO BE PRESSURED TO MAKE CHANGES. WE CAN ALL DO OUR PART.” community outreach. He recently hosted an urban farming class for a local high school and is looking forward to other educational opportunities on the property. Produce that is not purchased by local restaurants is donated to a soup kitchen on Skid Row where Nick formerly volunteered. When not farming for the York family, Nick returns to Ecuador for two months every year to enjoy his small farm in Cahuasquí that he purchased in 2010. (It is a short-term rental when he is in the U.S.) “Sustainability is a lifestyle and a way of thinking. It should not be a trend,” he points out. “The masses are becoming more aware of it now, but effective change needs to come from the top down. Big industry needs to be pressured to make changes. We can all do our part.” ■
72
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73
Just Believe NOT UNLIKE TED LASSO, SOUTH BAY SOCCER PLAYER JULIAN KUHR PURSUES HIS SOCCER AMBITIONS ACROSS THE POND. Written & photographed by Kat Monk
“Oi, are you American?” This is just one of many heckles
England, but they were reluctant—desiring him to first
that Hermosa Beach’s Julian Kuhr, 17, hears while play-
finish his education in the United States.
ing professional soccer for Gillingham Football Club
When the pandemic roared through 2020, all U.S.
(“the Gills”) in England. Without hesitation, Julian takes
sports came to a crashing halt. As school was moved
the noise in stride because he is living out his childhood
online, Julian seized his opportunity to play soccer in
dream—to become a professional soccer player.
England. He trialed and played a couple games with the
And soccer in England is as serious and important
Gills as a guest player. Soon they asked to have a meet-
as football in Texas. Ted Lasso, the hit show about an
ing with him and his parents to discuss his next steps.
American soccer coach of an English football team,
Just like that, he had officially been recruited by the
brilliantly showcases that national fervor. As his mom
Gills with a two-year contract.
is English, dual citizenship has afforded Julian opportu-
The Gills is a small club just outside London based in
nities abroad, including spending his summers playing
Kent. After some relegations and promotions, the Gills
in England—a unique chance to be seen and noticed by
have consistently played in the third tier of the English
the British soccer community.
football system called League One since 2013. Home
Julian’s inspiration to play soccer came from watching his older brother Sebastian play the sport. “I would
matches are played at Priestfield Stadium with a capacity of about 12,000 fans.
constantly get dragged around California to watch his
As a defensive midfielder on the U18/19 team, he is
tournaments and games,” he remembers. “Watching
currently in line to play on the first team if anyone gets
him play that much influenced me to want to play soc-
ill or is injured. The Gills Football Club is similar to AFC
cer like him.”
Richmond, the fictitious team featured on Ted Lasso—
Soon Julian made it evident he not only wanted to play soccer, but he wanted to beat Sebastian. “When I was younger, everything he did I wanted to do—but better.” He explains that both he and his brother were super
not a premier team but a team with a lot of heart. Julian lives with a host family while abroad, which was provided by the club, and his family visits as often as possible. “While he is completing his mandatory
competitive when it came to sports. “It got to the point
education that is supplied through the club with his
where we couldn’t even play sports together because it
contract, he also is finishing his U.S. high school edu-
would end in a fight between us. The fight would usually
cation online,” says mom Samantha.
start from me being a bit too serious when we played.” Confident it was his destiny to play professional
“The work itself isn’t super challenging; it is the amount of work I have to do that is quite tedious and
soccer, Julian paid his dues by playing at every possible
time-consuming,” shares Julian. That being said, he
opportunity in both the United States and England.
would not change anything. As the character Dani Rojas
Often he begged his parents to let him stay on in
in Ted Lasso says, “Fútbol is life.” ■
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75
palos verdes peninsula land conservancy
HOSTED BY
For more information contact Matt Harms mharms@walkwithsally.org walkwithsally.org/wlwn
Truth in Wine A ROLLING HILLS RESIDENT, WINE MOGUL AND PHILANTHROPIST CARRIES ON A 24-YEAR LEGACY IN NAPA VALLEY—PROVING THE AMERICAN DREAM IS REAL. Written by Jennie Nunn
Ask Darioush Khaledi, proprietor of beloved estate
master’s degree in civil engineering],” recalls Darioush.
winery Darioush in Napa Valley, about his modest be-
“Two of my classmates and I formed a construction
ginnings and journey to the United States, and he’ll re-
corporation and registered that day, and that night was
spectfully and humbly tell you he is living the American
my wedding with my wife, Shahpar. So I never forget
dream. There’s one date nearly 55 years ago—while he
November 6, 1968.”
still lived in his native Iran—that’s the most significant of his life. “In the morning I paid my student loan [for a
78
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The next day, instead of going on a honeymoon, Darioush received a contract from the Iranian government and began working as a field engineer for the next
eight years with a grueling travel schedule and relent-
children, he began working as a box boy in his own
less hours. “The first contract was for a few thousand
grocery store and started learning English.
dollars,” he explains. “The last contract was a few hundred million dollars. Within eight years, I was working
locations of Top Valu Markets and Valu Plus warehouse
very hard with my two partners, and I was constantly
stores. At one time it was the largest family-owned and
traveling between the fields, 26 days a month.”
privately held grocery chain in California. He sold the
Later while on a yearlong sabbatical, Darioush and Shahpar visited her sister in Redondo Beach. “I dis-
Throughout his life, a hobby stemming from his father’s influence evolved into his full-blown passion
ment,” recalls Darioush, who at the time didn’t know a
and current business for two decades: wine. “There are
word of English, and French was his second language.
three things I got from my father,” says Darioush. “One
“A week later we bought a house.”
is the drive. He was always pushing me. The second is
on a visitor visa. Business ownership was a viable option to obtain a green card and permanent residency, so
horses; he was a horseman and a polo champion. (I love horses and I ride regularly.) The third is wine.” He became a wine collector and traveled regularly to
they bought a small supermarket on 228th Street and
Bordeaux, France. A friend even offered him a property
Vermont Avenue in Torrance.
for sale there. But it was a fateful initial trip to Napa
The Iranian Revolution took place in 1979, and Darioush’s government contract was confiscated— as was his business. To support his family and two
|
company a few years ago.
covered Palos Verdes and fell in love with the environ-
He and Shahpar (who studied English) first arrived
80
Twenty years later, his K.V. Mart Co. operated 41
32 years ago for the couple’s 20th anniversary that changed everything. “We were having our anniversary dinner on the
“THERE ARE THREE THINGS I GOT FROM MY FATHER. ONE IS THE DRIVE. HE WAS ALWAYS PUSHING ME. THE SECOND IS HORSES; HE WAS A HORSEMAN AND A POLO CHAMPION. (I LOVE HORSES AND I RIDE REGULARLY.) THE THIRD IS WINE.” terrace at Auberge at the restaurant,” explains
and Albert Museum’s collection. They also produce 25
Darioush. “When I opened the wine list, I didn’t have
cases of extra-virgin olive oil per year from olive trees
any knowledge of California wine. So I asked the som-
on the property.
melier to bring us some wine from [Rutherford] vine-
Designed by Santa Monica–based architects Ardeshir
yard, and he brought us 1984 Caymus Special Selection
and Roshan Nozari (who designed the Khaledis’ former
Cabernet Sauvignon. I drank that wine and said, ‘Wow!
home in Palos Verdes before they moved to Rolling Hills
This is a good wine.’”
two years ago), the winery features a bronze statue
After discovering many Napa Valley wineries, do-
and fire feature with the inscription “in our hands;” an
ing extensive research, and meeting wine luminaries
outdoor amphitheatre; a kitchen headed up by execu-
including Charlie Wagner and Robert Mondavi (who be-
tive chef Sean Massey; and 48 columns made of yellow
came Darioush’s mentor), he and Shahpar decided Napa
travertine that was mined from quarries near the ruins
was an easier commute than Bordeaux from the South
of Persepolis—echoing the 72 original columns found
Bay. They began looking for properties to establish a
in Persepolis.
winery. During one of his many visits, he encountered
“It’s not a replica; it’s inspired by Persepolis,” ex-
a 30-acre abandoned winery and later met with owner
plains Darioush, who became a United States citizen in
George Altamura in 1998.
1982 and in 2008 was awarded the Ellis Island Medal of
“He was a first-generation Italian American, and I’m
Honor, which celebrates the contributions immigrants
a first-generation Iranian American. We clicked in the
have made to our nation. “We couldn’t put them all
first few minutes, and we asked the broker to leave the
here, but it’s a small version of that.”
room,” explains Darioush of George; the two became
Darioush is a sponsor of the current exhibit at the
best friends. “Ten minutes later, we asked him to
Getty Villa, Persia: Ancient Iran and the Classical World (on
come back in, and we shook hands. Twelve days later,
display until August 8), and he is chair of OLE Health—
Shahpar and I were proud owners of this winery.”
an organization that supports farmworkers and sees
Initially operating a temporary tasting room from a trailer, the now two-story, 22,000-square-foot winery—replete with the family’s private residence
400 patients a year. He recently donated $100,000 to Napa Valley College’s Teaching Winery. “When I bought my winery, I had no idea,” he ex-
and wine cellar—opened to the public in 2004. Today
plains. “It was just a hobby. I love meeting people and
it lures wine aficionados from all over the globe with 11
having the family. We don’t call them employees; we
types of varietals spanning cabernet sauvignon, shiraz,
call them members of the family. When I’m in L.A. I
viognier, chardonnay and Darius II—a collectible wine
miss them, and when I come back I feel like I’m com-
featuring bottles clad with historical Persian artwork
ing home.” ■
that was hand-selected and licensed from the Victoria
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81
“I’VE BROUGHT THE BEST OF BEVERLY HILLS TO THE SOUTH BAY.”
S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G S E C T I O N
B U S I N E S S S P OT L I G H T
IN GOOD TASTE Chase Kern brings uncommon style to the distinguished South Bay gentleman. WRITTEN BY LAURA L. WATTS | PHOTOGRAPHED BY SIRI BERTING
A
n artisan is hard at work, taking
Bespoke by Chase was born in the heart of
a client’s measurements and
Manhattan Beach.
designing a custom piece of menswear based on his years
“I’ve brought the best of Beverly Hills to the South Bay for those who desire a sophis-
of experience honing his craft. He focuses
ticated, diverse wardrobe,” says Chase, who
intently on his creation, helping the gentle-
can update a client’s existing clothing or
man standing before him choose just the
curate a new collection of apparel. “When I
right fabric and style.
meet with a client, I get to know him and ask
No, it’s not an Italian textile house in the
what he does for a living and how he’s going
early 1900s. It’s Manhattan Beach, circa
to wear the garments. Then we dive into
2022, and modern-day clothier Chase Kern
fabrics and start the Bespoke process.”
is doing what he does best: curating luxury,
In a world gone crazy for comfort—espe-
tailored men’s garments that are customized
cially during the pandemic shutdown—
for each client in both style and fit.
Bespoke by Chase has adapted to the times
“A lot of men have never had anything
but with great style, providing stretch fabrics
custom-made for themselves,” Chase says.
to create custom suits, shirts, trousers and
“But after clients wear my garments, they end
jeans. In addition to luxury formalwear,
up coming back to revamp their wardrobe.
Chase has curated seasonal sportswear
The Bespoke By Chase client has exquisite
collections including Italian sneakers, five-
taste for luxury goods.”
pocket stretch khakis, fine cashmere knit-
The sartorial fashion business has grown tremendously recently—particularly for those
wear, belts, ties and even Italian swim trunks. Why bother with custom-made clothes
with friends, his wife, Mandy, and his dog, Bogey—who is his #1 salesgirl. You can find
who are aware of the subtle yet significant
when there are so many ready-made
Bogey daily on the sidewalk outside Bespoke
difference custom clothing can make. And
options? A bespoke wardrobe will boost your
by Chase, finding ways to charm delivery
that’s where Bespoke by Chase comes in.
confidence because the clothes fit better
drivers for dog treats. Meanwhile Chase is
The firm’s clients are men who want to look
(and last longer). You can flaunt your indi-
inside the shop, finding ways to deliver an
good while investing in a wardrobe that will
viduality, knowing that your clothes properly
exceptional experience to his clients.
stand the test of time. Chase offers a chance
fit your body, personality and lifestyle.
to own something that not only fits perfectly but is exclusive to your closet alone. He began his career nearly two decades
And you can trust Chase to keep you on
“My clients have many choices to make throughout their busy day,” he says. “My
trend, as he keeps a constant eye on the
goal is to make their daily ‘what to wear’
fashion market and travels to trade shows
choice effortless.”
ago at Nordstrom and moved on to Saks
throughout the United States and Italy. He
Fifth Avenue and Gucci, immersing himself
works with top fabric mills around the world
BESPOKE BY CHASE
in the world of Beverly Hills high-end luxury
including Zegna, Loro Piana and Dormeuil.
815 MANHATTAN AVE., SUITE B
fashion and exquisite craftsmanship. After
Originally from Portland, Chase has been
MANHATTAN BEACH
absorbing all he could in that environment,
a South Bay local for more than 13 years.
503-358-0332
he embarked on his dream to open his
When he’s not working, he is fond of golf,
BESPOKEBYCHASE.COM
own luxury custom menswear shop. And
pickleball and woodworking. He spends time
IG: @BESPOKEBYCHASE |
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let it ride A PALOS VERDES CYCLIST HEADS TO THE LAND OF HIS ANCESTORS TO COMPLETE A BIKING PILGRIMAGE ON THE FAMED CAMINO DE SANTIAGO. Written by Diane E. Barber | Photographed by Shane O’Donnell and Alex Quintana
Alex Quintana has enjoyed a lifelong
“I was riding two to three times per week the year
soul connection to Spain—or the
before my trip. I had a good base, but I needed to add
motherland, as the local Argentinian expat fondly refers to his ancestral country. During the pandemic, the former marathon runner put a positive spin on the life-changing
miles and time in the saddle,” he says. “Three months before I left, I did more climbs to prepare for the challenge of the Basque Country’s continual long hills.” Hawthorne Boulevard became one of his training routes, particularly the 900 feet of elevation from Palos Verdes Drive to Silver Spur Road. For distance training, he mostly rode the bike path along the ocean from
events and took up cycling. Soon
Redondo Beach to Pacific Palisades, approximately 42
he became immersed in long-
miles round trip. “I didn’t exceed 50 miles because I
distance riding, and Spain once again beckoned to him and his desire to complete a Camino de Santiago historical pilgrimage. “The Camino de Santiago (the Way of St. James) is a
knew that my daily average in Spain was going to be 35 to 40 miles.” His riding apparel was carefully planned for the autumn trip, including a helmet, waterproof shoes that could also be worn walking, temperature-regulating merino wool shirts and socks, padded mountain bike shorts, gloves, long rain pants and a windbreaker jack-
network of pathways in Spain, Portugal and France that
et. Before he departed, he reserved a hardtail mountain
lead to the shrine of the apostle Saint James the Great
bike in Spain that was equipped with panniers (side
in the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia,”
bags), repair tools, a water bottle and a lock. He had
says Alex. “The pilgrimage began over 1,000 years ago
many options to choose from, as he discovered several
and was originally how one of the largest movements of
companies in Spain that rent bikes with additional ser-
people traveled through Europe. I was always intrigued
vices for pilgrims such as bike delivery and pickup with
by the idea of traveling a path that millions have trav-
luggage transfers from the starting point to the final
eled throughout centuries. When I joined my closest
destination hotel.
friend, Eduardo, at the cathedral as he finished his 30+
“When I arrived at the hotel in the town of Irun
day walk 10 years ago, I was inspired to do it myself.”
in the Basque Country where I started, the bike was
Alex began researching for his adventure in 2020. “I
waiting for me in a box and ready to go. My suitcase
spent hours online reading and watching videos made
was picked up and taken to my hotel in Santiago de
by people from around the world who documented their
Compostela, so I only had to carry essentials for the
experiences. I also visited websites and blogs and asked
duration of my ride. The bike weighed 31 pounds with-
a lot of questions to learn as much as possible. That
out gear. After I loaded it with my clothes, toiletries,
is how I discovered that cycling at least 200 km (124
water, food, phone and GPS, it was 52 pounds.”
miles) is recognized as a pilgrimage versus walking or horseback riding 100 km (62 miles),” he says. With a watchful eye on global travel restrictions, he
Alex averaged 40 miles per day at 9 to 10 mph during his 875 km (544-mile) trek, which he completed in 16 days with three resting days. Other than the first and
started to train for an October 2021 solo pilgrimage
last hotel, he did not make reservations for places to
along Spain’s El Camino del Norte (the Northern Way).
stay along the way so he could enjoy a more flexible
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schedule. Weather was favorable with mild tempera-
According to Alex, one of the most important aspects
tures (50s and 60s), and seasonal rain only fell at night
during long rides is timely refueling and hydrating. “I
when he was not riding.
learned that the hard way a long time ago. When I go
However, the journey was not all smooth sailing.
longer than 45 minutes biking, running or hiking and I
By the third day of riding the picturesque hills of the
forget to drink or eat, my energy level drops radically.
Basque Country, the initial adrenaline rush waned and
If I refuel every 45 minutes, I avoid that. So I scheduled
he began to experience muscle fatigue and exhaustion.
my meals and snacks accordingly.”
“The first few days were tough as I began to ques-
A good breakfast was always available at the hotels to
tion if I could finish 13 more days with 30,000+ feet to
start the day. Lunch, during typical Spanish lunchtime
climb. I started to feel the lack of adequate hill training,
between 2 and 4 p.m., was at roadside cafes or res-
and I wasn’t accustomed to doing back-to-back rides
taurants in the many small towns he passed through.
or climbing 3,000- to 4,000-foot elevations with the
“Dinner was easy to plan,” he says. “I was already off
added weight on the bike. However, by the fourth day
the bike and relaxing, with time to go out walking to
I found my rhythm, and with eight hours of rest I was
enjoy fresh local cuisine near the hotels.”
ready for another day.”
A GPS device, his phone and the iconic pilgrimage
signs with yellow scallop shells that marked the route
up and connected with nature,” Alex shares. “There
aided his navigation on the demanding terrain along
were numerous highlights, including the magnifi-
the Cantabrian Sea and the Cantabrian Mountains. He
cent scenery and wonderful Spanish people. The most
got lost three times during the entire trip, which he at-
exhilarating moment was finishing in front of the
tributed to fatigue.
cathedral in Santiago de Compostela. The sense of ac-
Remaining grounded in his spiritual appreciation for
complishment and self-satisfaction was overwhelming.
being present, he turned those mistakes into “cycle
I was filled with gratitude for my body responding well
tourism” experiences and enjoyed the sights. When he
to the challenge, for the bike not breaking (not even a
asked locals for directions, he was grateful to experi-
flat tire!) and for my family waiting for me at the end. I
enced warm and pleasant conversations and an occa-
would do it again in a heartbeat!” ■
sional history lesson. He also met many other pilgrims along the way who took time to share some stories about their experiences. “The trip brought back the sensation of freedom and adventure that I felt riding my bike when I was growing
like minds A REDONDO BEACH RESIDENT SEEKS DESIGN HELP FROM A LONGTIME FRIEND TO CREATE A MODERN DREAM HOME COMPLETELY TAILORED TO HIM. Written by Jennie Nunn | Photographed by James Law
When it came time to remodel his Redondo Beach home, South Bay native Misa Zaker had a very
made deliberate decisions on the palette and finishes. “The inspiration was really him,” she says. “He was so specific about his likes and dislikes. I thought, if we are
and took a look at it, I knew the
going to do black, white and grey, we need to add as much texture as possible to make it not feel cold.” To achieve this, they opted for materials like fluted
built in 1979. “It wasn’t bad, but it
glass, black marble and white plaster for the interior,
was layered into three levels so that
and iron cladding, ipe wood and white plaster for the
the front door was on the second
exterior. “Wood can easily make it look like a cabin,
floor. It was definitely livable, but once I decided to go contemporary, everything had to change.” To make the 3,500-square-foot residence his own
and you want the right type of stain,” explains Misa. “I didn’t want it to look like a cabin.” Misa championed the “centerpiece” of the house: a 24-by-14-foot sliding glass door in the living room to accentuate the ocean view. “What we envisioned was a long glass door, and the whole thing kind of centered
and create a modern oasis distinguished from other
around that,” says Misa of the custom piece made by
homes in the neighborhood, he knew he needed help
Styline Door & Window Systems. “It feels like you’re
from a pro. Luckily, he already knew the person for the
pretty much on top of the ocean, and now my living
job and enlisted the expertise of his longtime friend and
room literally turns into an outside patio. It really
designer Sage Gracie Allard, founder of her eponymous
came together.”
Los Angeles interior design firm. “I wanted modern, but I was afraid of making it too
He also searched extensively to source other major design elements throughout the home including the
modern and cold,” recalls Misa, a medical industry
garage door with aluminum panels, manufactured by
professional. “I had seen Sage’s work, and obviously
a company in Australia; the lighting; and the custom,
we knew each other. And even though I already knew
floating staircase manufactured in China. For the
what I wanted, she allowed me to create a formula and
custom front door, he tapped Swing Door Company in
not just piecemeal a bunch of stuff together. I trusted
Austin, Texas, to construct a pivot door made of oak
the process.”
with a strip of raw steel in a gunmetal blue finish in
For Sage, whose projects include Hermosa Beach establishments Fox & Farrow and Underground Pub &
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Sage carefully incorporated Misa’s design goals and
clear vision. “Once I got the house potential,” says Misa of the house
92
Wanting to create a flawless design for her friend,
the middle. The living room is anchored by a 10-foot olive tree;
Grill, it was about adding cohesion and functionality
a fireplace surround made of black ribbed marble; and
while creating a warm but modern interior in tones of
a soft velvety sofa, a coffee table, lounge chairs and
grey, white and black. “There was a step-up into the
a side table from RH Modern. The adjacent kitchen is
kitchen, which split the kitchen and made both spaces
outfitted with Neolith stone (Estatuario EO5) for the
not functional,” she explains. “The fireplace was there,
backsplash, countertop and hood; Wolf appliances; and
and that was it. And we had to redo the ceiling frame. It
Cannele pendant lamps and Oviedo leather barstools
was a big undertaking.”
from RH Modern.
The serene primary bedroom is appointed with a back wall layered with wooden dowels that double as a focal point against the bed. Additional accents include a pair of Edge Capsule mirrors from Crate & Barrel, and Striae ribbed glass pendant lamps and a Victor gunmetal leather wall mirror from CB2. “What I love most is how much it’s so perfect for him,” says Sage of the finished result. “I was so hon-
“I WANTED MODERN, BUT I WAS AFRAID OF MAKING IT TOO MODERN AND COLD.”
ored he asked me to help. I don’t know that it would have come out as well if it wasn’t for him, and he took bold risks which I appreciate. It’s all so neutral and
parties,” explains Misa. “I’ve had two or three neigh-
the view is just one big art piece.”
bors say they want to remodel because of me. Sage and
Following the two-year-long project, Misa feels right at home in the custom space he intended. The new design has even inspired others in the area.
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“Once a month on Fridays, we have neighborhood
calm, and when you see the green trees and mountains,
I went against the grain. It’s more of a custom home and so comfortable.” ■
as seen in
In every issue, we share one story across our network that explores topics beyond the limits of the South Bay. These California stories speak to the meaningful impact our state and its residents are making on the global stage. To learn more about Golden State and discover more stories like this, visit goldenstate.is.
against the current VENTURA-BASED BOAT MAKER JEFF HULL PROVES THERE’S NEVER A BAD TIME TO SEEK OUT A MORE MEANINGFUL DIRECTION WITH YOUR WORK. Written by Jared Sayers | Photographed by Grant Ellis
Have you ever taken notice of
radius would come to if they needed a killer go-kart or
conversations around your office?
a skateboard ramp. Fast-forward to adulthood. Resin and fiberglass
I mean the kind of conversation
replaced go-karts and skate ramps. From about 2004 to
over by the watercooler or break
2017, Jeff built quite a substantial business for him-
room. You know, the places where
self: glassing surfboards for about 33 highly respected
employees go to have a little space and exhale from whatever it is they were doing back at their desks.
shapers and surfers throughout the surf industry. Jeff was churning. He had steam. And then, a shift. He felt a pull. A pull into more. More ingenuity. More opportunity. More meaning. Boats.
If you listen closely enough and long enough, you
in Ventura. He makes boats that do not adhere to
hear things like, “Oh, you know, just tryin’ to get by,”
the simple copy-and-paste production regurgitation
“Another day another dollar,” “It’s Wednesday …
of mass-market brands. Rather, each serves its own
halfway there,” “Thank God it’s Friday.” Or this is my
unique purpose and user-specific function, yet all are
favorite: “You know, just livin’ the dream,” accompanied
just extensions of the wave-riding toys he had previ-
by a long, drawn-out sigh as they fill their Styrofoam cup
ously made in surfboards.
with burnt black stuff that no longer resembles coffee. I recently read a survey asking employed Americans
and attention to detail—just as his dad taught him in the garage. It frees him up to become far more creative
career. It was separated into five categories. They were:
with his designs. New hydrodynamics. New functional-
pay, opportunity, contribution, autonomy and meaning.
ity. New ways to offer a portal into a life way out on the
Which do you think employees voted as the highest and
horizon that otherwise is inaccessible by board alone. The ocean provides an escape for Jeff. Not necessar-
Wrong. Guess again. Meaning. Yes. Employees want to
ily an escape in that he is running away from some-
know that their work matters and has meaning.
thing; rather, the necessary unplugging from what we
Meet Jeff Hull. Jeff makes things. From a very young
construct for ourselves day to day. There is something
age, he has always possessed an inner drive to build,
very true about the ocean and its restorative capability.
make and create. Growing up, Jeff kept finding himself
It gives us permission to ease into and commune with
in his dad’s garage. There he would find walls and
something far larger than ourselves and whatever shiny
shelves full of every kind of tool you could imagine. His
resume we’ve built on land.
dad raised Jeff under the premise of “what is mine is
For Jeff and many others it is a reminder of what is
yours,” with of course the exception of the table saw
true, and that truth has spilled over throughout his life.
and skill saw. The rest of it … all yours … run with it.
He and his wife dive together. They venture out to the
The other rule was if you are going to make some-
Channel Islands together. They do life at sea, together,
thing, make it the right way using care, time and
and that subsequently spills over into the three children
adherence to the proper precision things require when
they are raising, who each have a front-row seat for
being built. Before long Jeff found himself as the kid
how life and vocation can be one and the same.
who all the other neighborhood kids within a half-mile
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He starts each project leading with care, precision
what the most important thing was pertaining to their
most important element to have in the workplace? Pay?
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Today Jeff owns and operates Jeff Hull Custom Boats
will notice some recurring themes and phrases. You’ll
“I don’t really know when I am on work and off
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“I DON’T REALLY KNOW WHEN I AM ON WORK AND OFF WORK, TO BE HONEST. IT JUST DOESN’T FEEL LIKE WORK WHEN WE ARE DOING THIS STUFF BECAUSE IT IS SUCH A PART OF WHO I AM AND WHAT I WANT TO DO.”
work, to be honest,” says Jeff. “It just doesn’t feel like work when we are doing this stuff because it is such a part of who I am and what I want to do.” Who says you must permanently grit your teeth in order to find success? Of course, hard work is essential. But the difference between hard work and the grind is: One you relish, and the other you loathe. Jeff relishes his work. He’s doubled down on the fact that if you do what you love, the rest will follow. And guess what … it has. He has a family, they have a home, they own a boatyard, they have a core team of friends who collectively have a very, very long list of custom boat orders in the queue. Newer, larger momentum has blessed Jeff, yet building and capitalizing on that momentum is not his primary concern. Seems rather counterintuitive in an age of tips, techniques and shortcuts to becoming some life-hacked version of a modern-day “entrepreneur.” If not that, then what? According to Jeff, it’s time that he’s chasing. More specifically, carving out time to be on the water. Time with family. Time with good friends. Once those boxes are checked, then yes, he and his team will build you a one-of-a-kind, tried-and-true, seaworthy vessel made specifically for your waters. Made to surf. Made with precision. Made with meaning. Will he ever stop making things? Probably not. Will he ever lose his love affair with the ocean? Highly unlikely. So if that is the case, why not forever blur the lines between where work starts and ends and where life starts and ends? Enjoying the work you do is actually an option. It may take some peripheral thinking and hard work, but how many of you would like to wake up every day with a new sense of meaning and invigoration for what’s to come? My suspicion … a lot of you, because no one wants to just make it to Friday their entire life. Mondays can be pretty great too. Just ask Jeff. But you can’t … because he’s out on the water, with his family. ■
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SEEN
State of the Art Fundraising Gala The first Indivisible Arts annual fundraiser brought a memorable night of food, drink, music, dance and experiential art. This outpouring of amazing creativity from locals, top high school artists, musicians and designers supports the mission of transforming local students’ lives through creativity, consciousness and connection through art.
Peninsula Heritage Celebrates “Through the Decades” Marking the school’s 60th anniversary, Peninsula Heritage School celebrated with a Spring Fling fundraiser. Partygoers participated in Heads or Tails, a wine wheel and a dessert auction. Following a silent auction, the live auction was led by auctioneer Eric Daroca, with all funds earmarked for a new school playground. Participants dined on a delicious buffet presented by Critic’s Choice and danced well into the night with music by DJ Keith Erickson and the Retrofit Band starring vocalist Charis Rey. Vivian Lum, Aubrey Abramson, Sarah Wizemann, Rachel Swanholt
Emie Eby, Joe Eby, Ashley Pedersen, Aaron Pedersen
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Katy Tucker, Shaun Tucker, Diana Aponte, Jesse Hecht
SEEN
Little Einsteins Dr. David Meyer, president and CEO of The Lundquist Institute, joined the first graduating class of Little Einsteins along with Lundquist PhD students who taught the courses. Little Einsteins is an exciting new program that introduces elementary public school students to science.
Palos Verdes Pastoral This garden-to-table dining experience at Terranea Resort in support of the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy highlighted the importance of butterflies, birds and other pollinators and the ways we can help reverse the dramatic decline in populations by creating new places and restoring existing places with native plants and wildflowers that will enable them to survive. Chef de cuisine Andrew Vaughan presented the menu using the finest local, sustainable seafood, grass-fed meats, and the freshest ingredients and flavors to create delicious, thoughtful, low-carbon-footprint courses paired with an inspired selection of wines.
Diana Heffernan-Schrader
Steve Tight and Chris Tight
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“We are handling many fun projects coming up this year, from walk street development homes to Hill Section compounds. We are proud that we are not set in one direction for design or architecture. This keeps us constantly pushing what we can do for our clients.” RJ SMITH, RJ SMITH CONSTRUCTION
MEN OF THE SOUTH BAY The secret to success in any business is good leadership. Leaders have the drive and resourcefulness to get the job done and get it done well. And that’s the story of each of the men on the following pages. These South Bay leaders in business are at the top of their game because of their hard work and entrepreneurial spirit. These are our neighbors, colleagues and friends. They inspire their teams, love their friends and families, and give back to their communities. Read on to learn more about these Men of the South Bay.
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RJ SMITH RJ SMITH CONSTRUCTION
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JOE BUCK JOE BUCK – SOUTH BAY PROPERTIES | COMPASS
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NICK SCHNEIDER SCHNEIDER PROPERTIES | COMPASS
WRITTEN BY LAURA L. WATTS PHOTOGRAPHED BY SIRI BERTING
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
M E N O F T H E S O U T H B AY
RJ SMITH
Principal, RJ Smith Construction
G
rowing up in a family that worked in the construction industry, RJ Smith has been a builder and designer for most of his life. He graduated from Redondo Union High School and the University of California, Santa Barbara, and in 2003 started RJ Smith Construction, a custom and spec building firm servicing Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach. HOW DOES RJ SMITH CONSTRUCTION PROVIDE YOUR CLIENTS WITH A COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE? We are the most competitive due to the fact that we build custom and spec homes. This helps us understand and find “bang for your buck” items and materials that we can pass along to our clients. We have a full-time estimator who helps us track budgets and bids to make sure we are up to date with all the current market pricing. This applies to projects in process and not just prior to the build. That way we know exactly where we need to be. HOW WOULD CLIENTS DESCRIBE YOU? Fun, but serious when we need to be. I love our project meetings with clients and subcontractors. We need to make sure we keep it light on the jobsite by making sure everyone is accountable for what they need to be doing. WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE FOR SOMEONE JUST STARTING IN YOUR LINE OF WORK? If you’re able to surround yourself with colleagues who have the same drive and determination, I can almost guarantee you will see a shift in your work ethic and surroundings. Plus, learn, learn and learn some more. The craft of build and design is always evolving. You have to stay on top of it.
MORE THAN HALF OF THE RJ SMITH CONSTRUCTION TEAM IS FEMALE. IS THIS A COINCIDENCE OR SOMETHING YOU HAD IN MIND? It was definitely not something I specifically sought out. I merely looked for driven individuals who wanted to take action, rather than me pushing someone into take action. Finding the perfect candidate for any position can be difficult, but I knew it would help build the stepping stones for our future RJS team. Thankfully I was fortunate enough to come across Trinh Sapsin. With her hard work and determination, she became one of our essential project managers. Our femaledriven team spans from project managers to our creative director, Stacey Hidalgo. As our female team grew, it was necessary for us to examine why our team successfully bloomed in the last few years. We still apply that thought process to this day. I am excited about the women who are dominating the world of project management and other areas through our company. I love the fact that these women all come from different backgrounds and all have one goal in mind: Build the best home possible for our clients! HOW DO YOU ENCOURAGE GREATNESS IN YOUR TEAM MEMBERS? By supporting them. One of the best things about our company is how well everyone communicates internally. Our team is great at communicating with designers and architects, but we also excel at communicating with our own team members from other projects to help with any questions that may come up. I love that our team supports each other seamlessly.
HOW DO YOU ATTRACT THE BEST TALENT TO JOIN YOUR STAFF? We attract great, talented people by understanding that no one who works for RJ Smith Construction needs to fit into a certain box. The people working for us range in age from their early 20s to 80. It really is a family business. Making sure our team as a whole is happy and hungry is what it is all about. DESCRIBE YOUR LEADERSHIP STYLE. I love watching my team grow. I’m very much here for them. I encourage them to utilize the knowledge and experience of not only myself but also those working with us, such as subcontractors. WHERE DO YOU FIND YOUR INSPIRATION? I love what I do, and I absolutely mean it when I say “love.” With that being said, I find inspiration every day—from the daily walks I take with my family to the weekly meetings with our extended team. It’s easy to find inspiration when you’re constantly surrounded with like-minded individuals. HAS FATHERHOOD MADE YOU A BETTER ENTREPRENEUR? Fatherhood has made me a better entrepreneur because I understand that my kids watch and judge everything I do. I have to show them the best way to be a man and what that involves. Our business is only part of it. My wife, Robin Smith, my sister, Kathy Morris, and my father, Richard Smith, all work with me. We are all showing my kids how to be respectful, and we guide them through the business world we live in. We want them to supersede us and become better entrepreneurs than we could ever have imagined. We are laying the groundwork now.
930 MANHATTAN BEACH BLVD., MANHATTAN BEACH | 310-648-8353 | RJSMITHCONSTRUCTION.COM
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L to R, top row: Jessica Topete, Lauren Bruksch, Marilyn Valez Middle: Kathy Morris, Robin Smith, RJ Smith Bottom: Trinh Sapsin, Hannah Dominick Not pictured: Stacey Hidalgo
M E N O F T H E S O U T H B AY
JOE BUCK
Broker Associate, Joe Buck – South Bay Properties | Compass
A
third-generation native of the South Bay, Joe Buck was born and raised in Redondo Beach. After graduating from Redondo Union High School, he earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Southern California, where he played Division 1 basketball. He continued playing basketball professionally for a decade. Meanwhile he got involved in the real estate industry in 2009 when he acquired his first income property. In 2015 he retired from professional sports to pursue his career in real estate full time and joined Compass two years ago. WHAT DOES JOE BUCK – SOUTH BAY PROPERTIES STAND FOR? As a real estate specialist and licensed Realtor®, I embrace the ideology that residential real estate is about more than just properties. It’s about people. It’s about pride of ownership. It’s about your most valuable asset. It’s about your family’s home and creating lifelong memories. It’s about relationships and trust. Real estate is really about YOU. I pride myself on attentiveness to my clients’ needs and maintaining an open line of communication throughout the entirety of the home buying and selling process. HOW HAS YOUR EXPERIENCE AS A PROFESSIONAL ATHLETE HELPED YOUR PERFORMANCE AS A REALTOR? I became passionate about real estate investing at the same time I was playing professional basketball. Leveraging the success of my income property venture paved the way for future investments and provided a wealth of knowledge and experience in the industry. So after I retired from basketball, it was a natural fit to turn real estate into my full-time work. Channeling the foundation and fundamentals of my professional athletic career and applying them in every aspect of my
business help me be competitive for my clients. I have an obsessive attentiveness to detail, and I strive nonstop for perfection. This was second nature for most people in the world of professional sports, but it’s rare to find that level of detail and perfection in the business world—and it’s definitely what differentiates me in this competitive market. So far in 2022 I’m undefeated for buyers! Living and playing around the world has also enhanced my ability to adapt quickly to variable circumstances and develop immediate rapport with people from all walks of life. The recent pandemic shutdown was similar to some of the more intense preseason training phases where the objective was to add more difficulties to the normal routine so you were challenged under extreme conditions. During that year or two of the shutdown, I felt like I was “training in sand”—everything was a bit heavier, more challenging to trudge through. But my business became fully adapted, even under that extra “weight.” It’s this tenacity that makes me unrelenting when it comes to my clients’ best interests. TELL US WHY OPEN HOUSES ARE IMPORTANT TO YOU. I hold a lot of open houses because I love the personal interaction aspect of this business. It always gives me a chance to engage with my community—meeting neighbors and potential clients. A good chunk of my business comes from meeting people at open houses, and I think it’s because people immediately get a sense and first impression of how I work and how much emphasis I put on doing right by my clients. DESCRIBE YOUR WORKING STYLE. I am obsessive with details, structure and systems and demanding of myself in all categories. My clients understand this about me, so they give me their ultimate
trust to lead the way—whether it be constructing an offer or operating through my listing-preparation process. I attribute my success to having systems in place for everything, which helps clients successfully close whether they are buying or selling. Compass leads the industry in tech systems designed to keep agents organized to meet our clients’ needs and the day-to-day necessities of the business. WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT WORKING IN THE SOUTH BAY? I genuinely love the process of helping people buy and sell in my hometown. This is the best place in the world—nothing comes close to the South Bay. I truly have such a sense of pride in helping people find their new homes here where they can experience the best lifestyle on the planet. HOW WOULD CLIENTS DESCRIBE YOU? Here is a review from a recent client: “If 10 stars were available, he would get 12. I’ve worked with and been around many agents over the last 10 years, and Joe makes them all look like they’re in slow motion. The BUCK stops here. Literally! Joe isn’t just a real estate agent. He is a business. He understands the ins and outs of every aspect of the buying process—from inspections to contingencies, appraisals and market trends. When my wife and I were in the process, it seemed like there was a list of 20 things that had to be checked off before closing. And if any one of those went wrong, it could derail the whole closing. Joe was always calm, cool and collected. He was always over-communicating, and even though he was working with other clients, he always made time to take our phone calls and talk through buying scenarios with us. His knowledge and experience are unparalleled, and we look forward to working with him on future transactions.” – Shawn P.
SOUTH BAY | 310-995-1195 | 888-JOE-BUCK | SOUTHBAYJOEBUCK.COM | DRE #01995305
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M E N O F T H E S O U T H B AY
NICK SCHNEIDER Schneider Properties | Compass
S
chneider Properties is a full-service residential real estate sales team powered by Compass, a Fortune 500 technology company operating in more than 50 markets. Nick Schneider started the Schneider Properties South Bay Real Estate Team eight years ago and has been working in the industry for the past 12 years. HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH THE NAME OF YOUR BUSINESS? Schneider Properties was established to thank some very special people in my life. Our grandparents came to Hermosa Beach in 1939. My parents, Bob and Dana, raised five boys in Hermosa Beach, and my Uncle Bill raised his kids on the same block. I wanted to honor the family name because if it wasn’t for my grandparents finding Hermosa Beach in 1939, Schneider Properties would not exist here. I carry that with me every day and am forever grateful. WHAT’S NEW AND EXCITING WITH YOUR BUSINESS? I love this question! Jack Gillespie and Jim Van Zanten, whom I had the honor and privilege to start my career with, told me in my first year that this is a great industry because you learn something new every day. They are 100% correct, and I have carried that notion in my own life and career. Every day is an opportunity to learn, and that keeps this business so fun and exciting. Another exciting thing is that we recently opened our own team office in Manhattan Beach and celebrated our third year at Compass! HOW DO YOU ENCOURAGE GREATNESS IN YOUR TEAM MEMBERS? Greatness doesn’t just come; it is earned. I try to be the best example I can be and show my team that results come from the effort you put in. Our business model is
about doing the right thing for the long term, and that is the best advice I can instill in my team. WHERE DO YOU FIND YOUR INSPIRATION? Inspiration is one of my favorite words. I’m inspired daily to be the best I can be. Loving what you do is the best way to stay inspired. Every day is a new opportunity to go after your dreams, and that specific thought is what truly inspires me. HAS FATHERHOOD MADE YOU A BETTER ENTREPRENEUR? Being a dad has definitely made me a better entrepreneur. I’ve always been a motivated and driven person in my career. However, with the arrival of my two daughters, my motivation has hit levels I never knew existed or could be possible. Their zest for life and learning is an inspiration to me, and I try to mirror their energy in everything I do. WHAT VACATION DESTINATION ARE YOU DREAMING OF THESE DAYS? Hawaii is my happy place. I typically work seven days a week, and I am on my phone all hours of the day and night working. I love doing it, but when I get to Hawaii, I feel the aloha spirit and can relax. My favorite hotel is The Kahala Hotel on the island of Oahu. If you haven’t been there, you should look into it! WHAT PUTS A SPRING IN YOUR STEP AND KEEPS YOU FEELING ENERGIZED? Helping others and coming through for my clients when the stakes are high. I’ve always been one to help anyone in need. It’s part of my nature, and I just love the feeling of being able to help someone when they need it most. Typically a home is a person’s biggest asset, so the stakes are high in our business—which means high pressure. But this is
something I love and an area where I shine. It puts a spring in my step when I’m able to help our buyers beat out 27 other offers or deliver multiple offers to our sellers. And, of course, bringing them the good news and overdelivering is what makes it all worth it! DESCRIBE YOUR LEADERSHIP STYLE. I lead by example and love to participate. Our team is somewhat unique in that our agents are seasoned and know the business. They are able to work on their own but come to Schneider Properties for sales support and assistance with strategy in winning and closing big deals. I love helping team members secure a listing or navigate a tricky escrow. I see our team as a family and love it when we get to work together to deliver for our clients. HOW WOULD CLIENTS DESCRIBE YOU? I think my clients would describe me as someone with a big heart who gets things done! I really do care about my clients and like to go the extra mile for them. I also like to make things happen quickly. Whether it’s getting the house prepared for sale or getting an issue sorted out, if we can get it taken care of fast for our clients, all the better! WHAT IS SOMETHING UNIQUE THAT CLIENTS MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT YOU? I’ve been a volleyball setter my whole life. I started indoors, and now you can find me setting in the four-person beach tournaments in summer. In a way, it’s a metaphor for my career. As a setter, you’re constantly in the mix and helping others by giving your hitters the best opportunity to hit the ball; as a Realtor, I do all I can to set my clients up for success and give them the best chance of realizing their real estate dreams!
505 N. SEPULVEDA #17, MANHATTAN BEACH | 310-809-4875 | SCHNEIDERPROPERTIES.COM | DRE #01867363
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
DRE#00967574
Palos Verdes Estates Situated on a huge, flat, 32,000 square foot lot, this stunning home features 8100 square feet, 7 bedroom suites and breathtaking ocean and coastline views! The spectacular backyard with pool, spa, cabana and lushly landscaped, expansive grounds completes this gated estate! $7,999,999
R E A L E S TAT E
Experience Modern Coastal Living This stunning 4bed, 4bath, 2,791 sq. ft. end-unit, Redondo Beach townhome with incredible Ocean views! Only foot steps away from the surf and sand! Designed for the avid entertainer, the extensively remodeled open layout allows guests to freely mingle as your party playlist serenades you through the Sonos sound system. In the living room, breathtaking ocean views are framed by glass sliders that lead to a large deck. Contemporary yet elegant. 108 Avenue F, Redondo Beach | Offered at $3,345,000 Daniel Assayag 310-493-2100 | Daniel@LiveInLa.net | Vista Sotheby’s Realty | DRE# 01762501
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21915 Park Place #301, Hawthorne Represented Buyer | Closed for $1,100,000 2 BD | 2 BA | 1429 SQ FT | Listed by Holly Danna Douglas Elliman Real Estate | DRE 01988811
28518 Robin View Lane, Rancho Palos Verdes Represented Buyer | Closed for $1,860,000 3 BD | 3 BA | 1759 SQ FT
2481 Amherst Avenue, Los Angeles Represented Buyer | Closed for $1,550,000 3 BD | 3 BA | 1810 SQ FT
1903 Clark Lane A, Redondo Beach Represented Seller | Sold for $2,170,000 4 BD | 3.5 BA | 2,240 SQ FT
$18,298,000 Closed and Pending year to date! Work with the team who knows how to CLOSE!
1903 Clark Lane B, Redondo Beach Represented Seller | Sold for $2,088,000 4 BD | 3.5 BA | 2,240 SQ F T
3450 Mountain View Avenue, Mar Vista Represented Seller | Sold for $3,500,000 28,000+ SQ FT LOT
1629 Ford Avenue, Redondo Beach Represented Seller | Sold for $1,425,000 4 BD | 2 BA | 1,776 SQ FT
12920 West Runway Road #121, Playa Vista Represented Buyer and Seller | Sold for $930,000 2 BD + Office Nook | 2 BA | 970 SQ FT
JENNY MORANT 424.409.8976 hello@jennymorant.com @jenny_morant jennymorant.com DRE 01874517
Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01991628. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate
LEFT TO RIGHT: STARR DILL (DRE 02102888), STACIA JANUS (DRE 02033099), ERIC FONOIMOANA (DRE 01432787), JEN CASKEY (DRE 01075946), ELIZABETH WELCH (DRE 01501746), ALI SNIDER (DRE 011221875), PATRICE RADDEN (DRE 02100059), AVERY HAZELRIGG (DRE 02094523), NOT PICTURED: JILLIAN KAPLAN (DRE 09144325)
INFO@JENCASKEYGROUP.COM @JENCASKEYGROUP 805 MANHATTAN AVENUE, SUITE 201 MANHATTAN BEACH, CA 90266 Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01991628. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate.
1208 THE STRAND UNIT A | MANHATTAN BEACH 2 BED | 2 BATH | 1,190 SF | $4,999,000 LISTED BY JEN CASKEY | DRE 01075946
215 S. VALLEY DR | MANHATTAN BEACH 4 BED | 3 BATH | 2,541 SF | $3,199,000 LISTED BY JEN CASKEY | DRE 01075946
301 4TH STREET | MANHATTAN BEACH 4 BED | 2 BATH | 1,779 SF | $4,000,000 LISTED BY JEN CASKEY | DRE 01075946
JEN CASKEY GROUP info@jencaskeygroup.com @jencaskeygroup 310.372.2200 Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01991628. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate.
108 Avenue F Redondo Beach, CA 90277 4 BR | 4 BA | 2,791 sq. ft.
Offered at $3,345,000
Scan Here To view online
Experience modern coastal living in this stunning 4bed, 4bath, 2,791sq ft. end-unit, Redondo Beach
Daniel Assayag
townhome with incredible Ocean views, only foot steps away from the surf and sand! Designed for the avid entertainer, the extensively remodeled open layout allows guests to freely mingle as your party playlist serenades you through the Sonos sound system. In the living room, breathtaking ocean views are framed by glass sliders that lead to a large deck, and a stately stone-clad fireplace radiates warmth to the adjacent dining
Realtor®, DRE # 01762501 Daniel@LiveInLA.net 310.493.2100 liveinla.net
@dan_realestate
area. Steps away, the kitchen treats the home chef to a walk-in pantry, multi-seater island, ample cabinetry, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances, including a SubZero refrigerator. Remote-controlled blinds add privacy as you unwind in the well-sized bedroom. Contemporary yet elegant, the primary ensuite highlights a standalone soaking tub, walk-in shower, and double vanity. A junior suite and an
TOP PRODUCER
#9
office with a beverage station directly access the secluded backyard where a Jacuzzi awaits you after a long day. Other notable features include A/C, central vacuum, and an attached 2-car garage. This home is a short two blocks away
1801 S. Catalina Ave, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
from the renown Hollywood Riviera known for its incredible shopping, cafes, and dining. Come make this enviable lifestyle yours by taking a tour today!
Each office is independently owned and operated
© 2022 VISTA SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. THE SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY® AND THE SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY LOGO ARE SERVICE MARKS LICENSED TO SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY AFFILIATES LLC AND USED WITH PERMISSION. VISTA SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY FULLY SUPPORTS THE PRINCIPLES OF THE FAIR HOUSING ACT AND THE EQUAL OPPORTUNITY ACT. EACH FRANCHISE IS INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED. ANY SERVICES OR PRODUCTS PROVIDED BY INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED FRANCHISEES ARE NOT PROVIDED BY, AFFILIATED WITH OR RELATED TO SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY AFFILIATES LLC NOR ANY OF ITS AFFILIATED COMPANIES. INFORMATION HEREIN IS DEEMED RELIABLE BUT NOT GUARANTEED.
"Lisa came highly recommended and exceeded all expectations. She knows her stuff, is highly service oriented, keeps her clients up to date, is ethical and has excellent judgement. We will seek her Assistance again, and I recommend her without hesitation to anyone searching for excellence in a realtor." - Richard T
COMING SOON: UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY TO OWN A STUNNING OCEAN VIEW PROPERTY IN SAN CLEMENTE. CALL FOR DETAILS.
THE TRUSTED REALTOR LISALEVIN.COM LISA@LISALEVIN.COM | 310.463.9118 Lic #01345434
JUST LISTED 516 N. Paulina Avenue, Redondo Beach 4 bedrooms / 2 bathrooms Gorgeous backyard with blue Appalachian flagstone, built-in fire pit, garden area and a charming redwood shelter- perfect for a man cave or she shed. $1,599,000
JUST LISTED 169 Via Monte D’Oro, Redondo Beach 3 bedrooms / 2 bathrooms Great location in Hollywood Riviera with ocean views, large backyard and a quick walk to the Village. $2,199,000
310-704-4014 | cariandbritt.com | Britt: BRE# 01799654 | Cari: BRE# 00850678
7 LAGUNA COURT, MANHATTAN BEACH 3 Beds | 3 Baths | 1876 Sq Ft | $1,999,000 This rare South-facing Plan 3 (w/2 large master suites!) in gated Manhattan Village was just updated! All 3 baths were remodeled with designer finishes, Brizo plumbing fixtures & Lumina lighted mirrors. Open concept kitchen/living/ dining room opens to spacious bright sunny patio with easy access to community spa and park areas. Brand new white oak wood floors & Savoy House lighting fixtures throughout, oversized garage with custom built-in cabinets & epoxy coated floor. Live in this turnkey home in the only gated neighborhood in Manhattan Beach & walk to the newly renovated upscale shops and restaurants of Manhattan Village Mall!
Our neighborhood, your home.
2404 Thomas Avenue, Redondo Beach 3 bed | 2 baths | 1,240 sf | 6,276 sf lot
DARIN DERENZIS 310.418.6210 | darin@vistasir.com DRE# 01760239
MEREDITH JOHNSON DERENZIS 310.600.7973 | meredith@vistasir.com DRE# 01907722
ROSE GAVAGAN
Scan to be directed to this property’s website
713.264.1275 | derenzis@vistasir.com DRE #02157998
Each office is independently owned and operated.
R E A L
E S T A T E
G R O U P
Coachella Valley Sales
The Palacios Group Louis Palacios and Anna Hahn DRE #02045509 | DRE #02122300 310.782.5446 Info@PalaciosRealEstateGroup.com ThePalaciosGroup
629 Via Horquilla, Palos Verdes Estates | $9,399,000 | www.629viahorquilla.com
LI NE ST W IN G
7 Bd | 10 Ba | 7,464 sq.ft. | 26,494 sq.ft. lot | 4 Car Garage
2513 Via Sanchez, Palos Verdes Estates | $2,100,000 | www.2513viasanchez.com
LE FO AS R E
3 Bd | 2 Ba | 2,284 sq.ft. | 5,654 sq.ft. lot | 2 Car Garage
605 Paseo Del Mar, Palos Verdes Estates | $29,500/Month 6 Bd | 7 Ba | 6,872 sq.ft. | 32,943 sq.ft. lot (3/4 acre lot) | 3 Car Garage
LILY LIANG
LL.COM
EDBYVARIOUS NFORMATION.
+1 310 373 3333 | 310 902 7799 Text HOME TO THE FINEST COLLECTION HOME TOESTATE THE FINEST COLLECTION OF REAL EXPERTS IN THE SOUTH BAY. OF REAL ESTATE EXPERTS IN THE SOUTH BAY.
STRANDHILL.COM STRANDHILL.COM
STRAND HILL | CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE LICENSE #01968431. THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, SQUARE FOOTAGE AND/OR
STRANDHILL|CHRISTIE’SINTERNATIONALREALESTATELICENSE#01968431.THEINFORMATIONCONTAINEDINTHISDOCUMENT,INCLUDING,BUTNOTLIMITEDTO,SQUAREFOOTAGEAND/ORACREAGE,HASBEENPROVIDEDBYVARIOUS ACREAGE, HASMAY BEEN PROVIDED BY VARIOUS WHICH MAY INCLUDE THE SELLER, PUBLIC RECORDS, THE LISTING OR OR OTHER SOURCES. BROKER HASINFORMATION. NOT AND WILL SOURCES WHICH INCLUDE THE SELLER, PUBLICSOURCES RECORDS, THE MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE OR OTHER SOURCES. BROKER HASMULTIPLE NOT AND WILL NOT SERVICE INVESTIGATE VERIFY THE ACCURACY OF THIS
NOT INVESTIGATE OR VERIFY THE ACCURACY OF THIS INFORMATION.
lily@lilyliang.com | www.lilyliang.com 716 Yarmouth #202, Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274 BRE# 00837794
He says I don’t need it, but that’s not the point. When I look better, I feel better.
It’s not for him... it’s for me.
Laser & Injection Treatments Since 2004 310-373-5000 | WWW.CELIBRE.COM | TORRANCE, CA
discover southbay on instagram @OURSOUTHBAY
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LAST WORD
Beyond the Bubble IS THERE LIFE OUTSIDE THE SOUTH BAY? Written by Scott Sanford Tobis | Illustrated by Yuiko Sugino
In the film The Truman Show, the title character is stuck in a
and dryer, and a garage full of boys stuff. The boys stuff was
nightmarish scenario that he cannot escape. The entire world has
age-appropriate for my son and age-inappropriate for me. Items
been created as an idyllic environment geared for Jim Carrey’s title
I should have outgrown—turntables, laser discs, vinyl, toys,
character, but also a prison in which he is trapped. His surround-
video game systems and too many other items to mention mainly
ings, in reality, are nothing more than an enormous television
because I’d be embarrassed to admit it. Yes. Even more embarras-
studio that allows viewers to monitor every aspect of his life 24
sing than still having laser discs and the occasional Betamax tape
hours a day.
collecting dust.
I recently had a scenario that oddly mirrored Truman’s ordeal,
Trying to leave The Bubble reminded me a bit of Truman’s
as I tried to flee from The Bubble—a similarly idyllic setting. With
experience, except under slightly less nightmarish conditions.
my only son off to college last autumn, a three-bedroom house
Instead of a demonic director/dictator (in the guise of the great Ed
felt like too much for a single person. I was in classic downsizing
Harris) using his Machiavellian skills to keep Truman inside his
mode. It was time to figure out where to move.
bubble—psychologically and physically—I found myself contend-
I tried to leave The Bubble. Believe me. Santa Monica beckoned,
ing with overeager garage sale buyers (a few with sticky fingers),
as did Pacific Palisades. But the citified nature of the former de-
the emotional trauma of giving away my collection of 45s and
tracted from the beach view, and the lack of the ability to walk to
a poorly timed black widow spider bite. To be fair, I don’t think
the Pacific left me cold on the latter.
there’s such a thing as a well-timed version of the latter.
In the end, I stayed in the South Bay. After much searching, I
In the real world, The Bubble is a utopian arena in which
found a great condo a few miles south in Hermosa. Swapping the
I tried to escape—only to find that no matter what I did, its
sand dunes for prime Greenbelt real estate seemed like a fair trade.
power impelled me to stay within its boundaries. Like Truman,
Now all that was left to do was reduce my belongings to what
who almost died navigating his escape from his manufactured
would fit into a two-bedroom condo. Decimating my belongings is
environment, I had a frighteningly close call recovering from the
more accurate, as I purged much of what my son and I collected in
venom of the black widow’s bite. In the end, we both survived
our almost decade of living in Manhattan Beach.
our individual traumas.
More than two dozen large boxes of toys, stuffed animals and
I guess the biggest difference between Truman and me is that
other miscellaneous items went to Goodwill and Long Beach
his prison was a dystopian one, while I have been voluntarily (and
Rescue Mission. Troves of books were dropped off at Dave’s Olde
happily) living and continue to live in a utopian one. I’m proud to
Book Shop—which only left me with outdoor furniture, a washer
call The Bubble my home. In the past, present and future. ■
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