Westchester/Playa HomeTown News October 2020 edition

Westchester kids and Visitation students, Lorelei and Jack, get into the Halloween spirit. The school is inviting the community to visit its holiday-themed photo booth this month.

Page 2 • October 2020

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

This Month Brings You

help you prom help you prom nization or even nization or even A look inside your HTN

Halloween Happenings reimagined for 2020 04 Business Spotlight: Cafe Ruisseau 06 Spotlight on Local Schools 09 Social clubs work to make a difference in community 24 First Annual Pet Photo Contest 30

HOMETOWN STAFF/CONTRIBUTORS Stephanie Davis, Publisher

Jeff Blair, Contributing Writer Fay Craton, Contributing Writer

Sheri Weitz, Contributing Writer Consuelo Israelson, Contributing Writer

Front page photo by Zsuzsi Steiner for the HomeTown News. Zsuzsiphotography.com.

About The HomeTown News (HTN)

The HomeTown News is a monthly community newspaper dedicated to providing information about the people, events and happenings of Westchester, Playa del Rey, Marina del Rey and Playa Vista. Look for the HomeTown News the first Thursday of the month at your home or at one of our drop-off locations.

Connect with the HTN:

Mailing Address: 8939 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Ste. 110 #745 Westchester, CA 90045 • Email: westchesterhometown@yahoo.com • Website: thehtn.com • Facebook: facebook.com/thehtn The deadline for submissions is the 22nd of each month.

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us on Faceboo to-date with news and us on Faceboo Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

October 2020 • Page 3

Business and Nonprofit News Round-Up

Marina del Rey Garden Center displays fall-themed decor and a great selection of pumpkins in this file photo.

Community gets creative for reimagined Halloween Happenings this month When L.A. County officials announced they were strongly advising against traditional trick-ortreating or even trunk-or-treating this year, many lamented that, like so many things in 2020, Halloween would be canceled. But leave it to quick thinking community members who immediately started brainstorming on how they could provide a safe and fun reimagined Halloween experience for local kids and the community.

For Westchester resident Alicia Hood, the thought of not having a way to celebrate Halloween was a sad one, especially given that this is the first year that her 3-year-old son, Becker, had shown any interest in the holiday.

“I love Halloween! I’m the person who does the group costumes,” said Hood. “Seeing Becker get excited about trick-or-treating, but having to steer him away from it, made me think that maybe there was an opportunity to do something good here.”

Putting out a call for help on the Parenting in Westchester, PDR and PV Facebook Group, she found many moms and families in the same situation who were all trying to figure out ways to provide a memorable, candy-filled holiday for their kids, while in the middle of a pandemic and following Safer at Home orders.

With the help of a group of passionate, Halloween-loving volunteers, Hood is organizing the Page 4 • October 2020

“Westchester & PDR Halloween Spooktacular: Scavenger Hunt and YMCA CARnival.”

The two-part event will start Halloween morning. Participants who have registered on the YMCA’s website will receive a map of decorated homes and locations throughout Westchester and Playa del Rey. Each location will have an item for kids to find–think giant spider or a silly skeleton–which they will mark on their scavenger hunt card.

Hood says that some of the locations will also feature surprises during certain timeframes, including goodies delivered via “candy chutes.” Finding all 20 items on the scavenger hunt will gain a family entrance into the Westchester Family YMCA CARnival from 4 to 7 p.m.

“This has been a joint effort with so many parents in the neighborhood, and we are really excited that the Y has decided to partner with us on the CARnival,” said Hood. “We have such an amazing community. I mean where else would people come together like this to give the kiddos something to look forward to on Halloween and not just be another canceled day.

We’re really excited we are all able to come together and give the kiddos a Halloween they deserve.”

Playa del Rey resident Stacey Winget Cochrane, jumped on the opportunity to help and is part of the CARnival planning committee. She sees this event as yet another way

the community is banding together during this difficult time.

“It has all been really amazing to see it come together,” said Winget Cochrane. “That’s one of the things I love about this community and neighborhood so much–rather than lament and be sad that ‘Halloween is canceled–’ a bunch of people came together to make something happen.”

While plans for the CARnival are still being finalized, the general idea is that participants will stay in their cars while they drive through the YMCA parking lot. Volunteers are working hard to create games and activities that can be quickly sanitized between users or are no-contact.

While supplies last, the plan is to provide goody bags at the end of the CARnival.

As someone who had COVID in March, Winget Cochrane knows the importance of being cautious during this time, and emphasizes that everyone will be required to wear a mask and volunteers will be social distancing as much as possible.

“We’re all craving socialization, community and just being able to control something when so many things are out of our control right now,” says Winget Cochrane. “I feel so lucky to be part of this event, and if I see even one smile on a kid or adult that day it will all be worth it. I should say a smile ‘in their eyes,’ since we will all be wearing masks!” (continued on next page)

After six months of relatively quiet business and nonprofit news, here’s a look at what’s happening this month with grand openings, fundraisers and more.

• Target Westchester readies for grand opening. If you’ve driven down Sepulveda Blvd. in Westchester’s business district lately, you’ve probably gotten excited about the progress that Target has made on the old Office Depot building and admired the street-facing windows that have been added. The new 25,000-square-foot store, located at 8900 S. Sepulveda Blvd., is scheduled to open on October 22 according to store director, Tifanie Swinson.

“When I was asked to open up this Westchester Target store, I was truly honored and excited because I love this community,” said Swinson in an interview with the LAX Coastal Chamber. “I went to Westchester High School and two of my children attend schools here.

I love the community engagement and the family camaraderie amongst the residents and businesses. Myself and our dynamic Target team, look forward to welcoming our wonderful community to this amazing new Target store.”

• New boutique opens in Playa del Rey. Lily Love Boutique is opening October 6 in the Playa del Rey Shopping Center. Specializing in unique, comfortable and on-trend women’s clothing, owner Sara Lashkari is thrilled to finally open her brick-and-mortar location after her plans were delayed due to the pandemic. Check out the store’s website at lilyloveboutique.com or visit the store to check out their selection of fashion and accessories.

Lily Love Boutique is located at 8125 W. Manchester Ave. in Playa del Rey. • Westchester duo release album “Soar.” Over the past two years, musical group Joselyn & Don have been recording an album out of their home studio in Westchester. Able to finish the project with the time made available at home with the pandemic, the result is a 10-track album that is planted in American roots and branches out into folk rock, sophisticated ballads and soul.

Check out joselynwilkinson.com to learn more and tune in October 11 for a live streaming concert.

• Mental Health Guild hosts trivia night to raise funds for AMCS. Due to COVID, the Westchester Mental Health Guild has had to cancel its annual Holiday Home Tour. The event is the biggest fundraiser for the Guild, which supports Airport Marina Counseling Service.

In lieu of the Holiday Home Tour, the Guild is scheduling several online events, including a Tricky Trivia Night with prizes on Thursday, October 8 at 6:30 p.m. The cost to participate is $10 and space is limited. To register, please visit westchestermhg.org.

Have business or nonprofit news to share? Email us at westchesterhometown@yahoo.com for a chance to be featured.

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

Visit The Book Jewel in the Westchester Triangle to browse a great selection of Halloween, horror and fall-themed books on display.

Halloween Happenings (continued from previous page) Waivers will be required for anyone participating in the CARnival. More details will be made available on the Westchester Family YMCA website and thehtn.com when they are confirmed.

The Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary Club, the service organization behind the popular Santa Tour, is taking the same magic they put into celebrating Christmas to create something special for Halloween.

Their plan is a Great Pumpkin Caravan, which will feature Rotarians dressed up as Peanuts characters, including favorites Snoopy, Charlie Brown, Peppermint Patty and more.

The caravan will start in Playa del Rey at 4 p.m. on October 31st and will wind its way through streets in PDR and Westchester. Organizers say the caravan will last about an hour and residents can expect to see more than 10 spooky decorated cars, fun surprises, and of course, a huge Great Pumpkin!

Said Rotary Club President Jerry Jen, “As Rotarians, we love being able to support our community while also having fun. In light of all that is going on right now, Playa Venice Sunrise Rotarians thought a themed caravan would be a safe, fun and festive way to bring the spirit of Halloween to our community and the kids.”

The caravan’s route will be released on October 29th via playavenice.org.

The HomeTown News is also getting in on the Halloween festivities and is hosting a Hometown Halloween Pumpkin Decorating Contest and Community Costume Contest.

Open to residents of Westchester, Playa del Rey, Playa Vista and Marina

del Rey, the Pumpkin Decorating Contest will run through Sunday, October 25th. Those interested in participating are encouraged to use their creativity to create a scary, funny or silly entry by either decorating or carving a pumpkin. Community members can enter the contest by emailing a photo of their spooktacular creation to westchesterhometown@ yahoo.com.

All of the photos will then be uploaded to facebook.com/thehtn, where the community can vote for their favorites in different categories broken up by school level, as well as an adult and family category. The photo with the most votes in each of the five categories will receive a prize.

For complete details on both activities, please visit thehtn.com.

With no carnival this year, Visitation is instead inviting the community to visit their campus starting October 25th to take a photo in their hauntingly fun Viz Photo Booooooth! During the week before Halloween, the campus will be open from 7:45 a.m. to 6 p.m. for families to visit in costume and take a selfie in front of parent-created photo backdrops with themes like Dia del los Muertos and more. Share your pictures and the fun by uploading them to social media using #vizphotobooooooth (six O’s!) and #visitationschoolla.

While all these events were confirmed before press time, please visit us at facebook.com/thehtn for any updated info in case of changes or cancellations.

Is your group or organization holding a Halloween event this month? Email us at westchesterhometown@yahoo.com to be added to our list!

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

October 2020 • Page 5

Everyone’s business could use a little help these days, so every month we’re featuring companies owned by local residents or located in Westchester/Playa to help promote shopping locally and to support community members.

Here’s the scoop on Playa Vista’s Cafe Ruisseau. Owned by Edward Ackah-Miezah, the family-friendly coffee shop specializes in signature drinks like the Honey Lavender Latte, Toasted Marshmallow Chai and London Fog, and offers an assortment of treats, including vegan and glutenfree options. Next time you’re in the mood for a latte, check out this cafe which puts a priority on building great relationships with their customers, while serving top-notch coffee and drinks.

Q. Please tell us a little bit about yourself. A. I am a Brit, born to Ghanian parents and was raised in London until my stepdad got a job with Boeing, which brought me to the Seattle area in the 90s. Seattle is where I was first introduced to coffee, but more importantly where I met Brooke, my best friend and wife of 22 years. We have three amazing kids and a few others that we think of as our kids. We’re a fun family and spend a lot of time together hanging at beaches, playing basketball, taking trips and just being together. I think that the quality that we have together as a family is what we’ve been able to bring to the cafe. It’s a space where folks can feel welcomed and known and have a genuine experience that goes beyond the beverage we make for you. Being a mixed race family (we’re actually a “mixed culture” family since we all belong to the human race, but you know what I mean), we have a strong and innate proclivity toward inclusion and diversity. That being the case, 2020 has been a year of a lot of deep and moving conversations between us. Since my kids are a bit older now the conversations about the social movements taking place in our world have forced all of us to really think deeply, listen intently and be deliberate in how we act in the world and how we treat other people. It’s been a challenge but I think we are better for it.

Q. Please tell us a little bit about your business? A. Our business has been around since 2005, when we started doing a very mobile version of what we have in Playa Vista.

Essentially we had cappuccino bars that we brought to special events, bringing the entire cafe experience to our clients. We have done tons of TV and film sets including Spiderman 3, Dear White People, Bosch, The Page 6 • October 2020

The Ackah-Miezah family enjoy spending time at their coffee shop, Cafe Ruisseau.

At right: Signature drinks at the cafe include the Toasted Marshmallow Chai and London Fog.

Bachelor, Iron Man, Mixed-ish and My Name is Dolemite, to name just a few. We’ve also done a zillion private and corporate events from real estate open houses to teacher appreciation days at schools. Everyone loves coffee, but more importantly, everyone loves being treated with respect, kindness and like individuals–not just customers. I think that distinction is what has allowed us to stand apart and succeed in a very competitive space like third wave coffee. We’ve been in

this space here in Playa Vista since 2016.

Q. What do you like about running your business and being an entrepreneur? A. I love coffee, I really do. There are so many layers to it and variables with it that make it something that can never be completely figured out. It’s like a good relationship, where after so many years you are still finding new things you love about it. I also love providing a place that members of

Photos courtesy Cafe Ruisseau.

Business spotlight: Playa Vista’s Cafe Ruisseau creates a welcoming place for customers to enjoy great coffee

the community can connect and collaborate. We have a very big outdoor area, very COVID friendly, that lends itself to all types of activity.

It’s not uncommon to see friends meeting up for coffee or parents connecting over a cold brew while their kids enjoy a large safe space to run around a bit. We also have a dope wall mural that is a really cool Instagram backdrop for selfies. It’s a very satisfying feeling watching other people utilize and enjoy the space that I love so much.

Q. How has COVID impacted your business? A. COVID had absolutely impacted our business. Being in business for the last 15 years, we’ve been able to weather a lot of changes and ups and down, but COVID-19 definitely feels like a slap to us. We are located in an outdoor cabana on the i|o Playa Vista business campus next to Tocaya Organica. Pre-COVID we had a few thousand people on the campus every day working. Now literally 95 percent of those people are working from home. We’re surviving really by folks from the communities around us seeking us out. We’ve gotten a lot of customers from people sharing about us on Instagram @ cafe_ruisseau and showing us love on different Facebook groups. We’ve shifted to offering an order ahead feature through our Cafe Ruisseau Rewards app available on the app store and Google Play or through our website. We’re selling whole coffee beans through the site and a subscription option to have beans shipped to your house weekly, biweekly or monthly, or for pick up at the café, as well. We also have merch, so you can rep your fave little cafe with a hat or T-shirt. All of the ideas we had, but didn’t pull the trigger on before, we’re rolling out now. I think we’re going to be OK, I hope we’re going to be OK, somebody please tell me we’ll be OK! Q. What else would you like the community to know about your business? A. We just want folks to know that we are doing some special and magical things over here. We’re not going to throw shade at the other coffee shops around–that’s just not our style–but we do want everyone to know that there are alternatives to the big coffee giants out there. We’re here, we’re family-owned, we’re Blackowned, and you won’t regret spending your time and dollars with us.

Q. What are some of your favorite local businesses? A. We love The Conference Room in Playa Vista and N’ice Cream is a favorite for sure.

Visit caferuisseau.com for more info.

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October 2020 • Page 7

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Highlighting the great things going on in the education community!

All photos courtesy the schools.

SPOTLIGHT ON OUR LOCAL SCHOOLS

It would be an understatement to say that the last few months have been challenging for students, teachers, parents and school administrators.

As a foundation, we had to make what seemed like a difficult decision right at the start of the pandemic to cancel our biggest fundraiser of the year, the Rock Roll & Run. Although the event could not take place at LMU, many sponsors and runners continued to pledge their donation to our local schools.

We would like to especially thank the Drollinger Charitable Foundation, LMU, the HomeTown News, CedarsSinai, Kaiser Permanente, the Stephanie Younger Group, Legado, the William H. Hannon Foundation, JANEFF and LINX, for their donations.

The partnerships we have with our business community are vital to the success of our foundation.

It’s our relationships with our sponsors that led to SoCalGas contacting us in April to ask how they could support our schools through the quick and unplanned transition to distance learning. We decided on COVID-support mini grants, and with a matching donation from the foundation, more than $10,000 went to schools to help offset the cost of document cameras, software and supplies.

While a drop in the bucket to address the unexpected costs all our schools incurred, we were happy to be able to provide some assistance.

This month, we’re excited

Photo by Zsuzsi Steiner.

A message from Andrew Chereck, LAX Coastal Ed Foundation President

A St. A’s student follows along with his class while working on an assignment.

St. Anastasia continues to build a strong community to again partner with SoCalGas to distribute more than an expected $40,000 in STEM grants to our schools that submitted an application.

If you’re not familiar with the LAX Coastal Education Foundation, our mission is to support and enhance the highest quality educational environment for students, educators and parents in the LAX Coastal area, which includes 27 K-12 schools in Westchester, Playa del Rey and Playa Vista. Our board of directors is comprised of local parents, business leaders and educators.

Since forming in 2017, our foundation has distributed more than $300,000 to our local schools through the Rock Roll & Run, and in grants for arts and beautification, professional development, classroom supplies and STEM. Want to join us in strengthening our education community? Please email us at info@laxcoastaledfoundation. com with ideas, partnership opportunities or feedback.

We’d love to work with you to support our schools!

If you drove on to the campus of St. Anastasia Catholic School during the school day, you would find a parking spot with ease. The playground and field would be empty.

When you enter the building, you would anticipate the quiet might continue down the halls since the school has started distance learning, but the classrooms are buzzing!

Our phenomenal teachers are engaged in live instruction with our students daily. You can hear the sounds of learning reverberating through the hallways. We are so pleased to bring a vibrant experience to our Panthers during this unusual time!

A St. Anastasia Panther’s day begins as a whole community at 8 a.m. with school prayer and announcements.

From there, our students Zoom with their teachers for a day of connection and learning. These days include music, physical education, science, community building and

more! The faculty continues to work diligently to provide our students with a quality Catholic education, especially during these times.

At St. Anastasia, we have been working to keep our families engaged, our students learning and laughing and our community strong.

Throughout the summer, we held exciting community building events such as cooking classes, scavenger hunts, prayer, bedtime stories and family game nights.

We had a great first day of school over Zoom, and then celebrated on campus with an exciting car parade for our students. Now that we are a month into school, we are transforming many of our events to the digital world. Keep an eye out for our students participating in our Jog-A-Thon on October 23. You won’t miss us in our blue St. A’s shirts! Our families will be getting up and moving in the neighborhood

to help raise money for our students, activities and school programming. If you are interested in supporting our Jog-A-Thon, please visit bit.ly/stajogathon for more information.

Even though we are not together right now, the spirit of our incredible community is strong. We can’t wait to be back in the building together, but until then, we will continue to learn, celebrate, and pray. We will have online book fairs, enjoy a Halloween parade, host a talent show, and more! Be sure to follow our adventures on our social media channels and thank you for supporting St. Anastasia.

Go Panthers and God bless!

Follow us at facebook.com/ StAsWestchester and on Instagram at st.anastasiacatholicschool.

You can also visit us online at school.st-anastasia.org for more info.

Contributed By St. Anastasia School.

support their students, create new opportunities and trying their best to manage during this unprecedented time.

The following articles are submitted by parents, teachers and principals who are passionate about letting the community know about their school successes, and we love being able to highlight all the good stories coming from our K-12 schools.

As we move into school tour season, which will be largely virtual this year, we hope this section gives you a snapshot into each school’s programs, what’s going on currently and a new perspective on local education. We believe all our schools have something special to offer their students, so we encourage you to check out every school that interests your family.

October 2020 • Page 9

A message from the HomeTown News

Welcome to our eighth annual Spotlight on Schools edition!

The HomeTown News is proud to support local education, and every year we invite our Westchester/ Playa schools to share with us what’s going on in their community. Even though all of our schools are online right now, administrators and teachers are continuing to Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

At Katherine Johnson, students find success with STEM At Katherine Johnson STEM Academy, teachers are doing things differently. Math teacher Daisy Alvarado-Muñoz exemplifies this attitude by using STEM as a framework to solve 21st century problems with great hearts and great minds.

After receiving her bachelor’s degree from Brown University, Alvarado-Muñoz returned to her home state of California to earn her master’s degree and teaching credential from UCLA. AlvaradoMuñoz always excelled in math, but fell out of love with it for a few years in high school. It wasn’t until a college statistics class that her passion for math was reignited.

For her, success in math is a threepart formula: math identity + struggle mindset + rigor.

Alvarado-Muñoz’s interest in math identity began during her graduate research at UCLA. According to her, “math identity is an essential part of learning math, especially for middle school students. This means dismantling the idea that some people aren’t ‘good at math’ and building a new understanding of what it means to be a mathematician and what it looks like to use math in our daily lives.”

This year, rather than focusing on a “Growth Mindset,” AlvaradoMuñoz is pushing students to develop a “Struggle Mindset.” Learning from Black freedom fighters like Asata Shakur, Alvarado-Muñoz wants students to understand that, “they can be smart and struggle. The two are not mutually exclusive.” According to Alvarado-Muñoz, a struggle mindset emphasizes the process rather

At left: Alvarado-Muñoz cheers on the boys basketball team. At right: A student shows a Lego-based proof of the Pythagorean theorem.

than the product. For students, this means being able to explain “why” every time they answer a question in her class. Another classroom routine that helps students value struggling as part of the learning process is the test reflection. After the test has been graded, students are given time to identify the different types of mistakes they made. This helps normalize making mistakes as a part of the learning process and allows students to practice the metacognition necessary to analyze their own thinking.

Katherine Johnson STEM Academy has adopted a schoolwide MasteryBased Grading philosophy, which

means that the goal is for students to master different learning targets that are aligned with content standards and our school’s mission.

Alvarado-Muñoz explains that Mastery-Based Grading allows her to, “focus on rigor as opposed to difficulty, which means giving students problems that cannot simply be solved using their iPhones.”

What this looks like from a student perspective is that all assignments are four questions that increase in complexity. While students test out their critical and strategic thinking on level 3 and 4 math problems in class, the goal is that they apply those same skills to solving any problem they

encounter in school or in life.

As the residential LAUSD middle school for Westchester, Playa del Rey and Playa Vista, our small school provides a full-time Resource Specialist, along with Honors and GATE classes that push our students to excel above their grade level, specifically in math where we offer LAUSD’s Accelerated Math Curriculum taught by AlvaradoMuñoz.

To learn more about the great things happening at our school, please visit kjstemacademy.org and sign-up for a virtual tour.

Contributed By Katherine Johnson STEM Academy.

Westport Heights uses whole child lens to focus on academics and emotional needs of students Westport Heights Elementary School (WHES) is celebrating its 75th year providing quality education and service to students and their families in Westchester and surrounding communities. We continue to focus on our core values illustrated in the statement, “WHES is a caring and collaborative community that nurtures creativity and inspires critical thinking for all learners. WHES cares.” Our belief is every child and their family is of value and makes our school community whole.

WHES teachers and staff work to address the current needs of students by utilizing a “Whole Child” educational approach. ACSD defines this approach to education as “policies, practices and relationships that ensure each child [in school] is healthy, safe, engaged, supported and challenged.”

Westport has a rigorous academic focus utilizing research-based approaches, such as Cognitively Guided Instructional (CGI) for Page 10 • October 2020

math instruction, school-wide. The performing arts have flourished at Westport by engaging students with our year-long chorus and instrumental music as well as creative dance programs. During a regular school year, students are also offered activities which focus on physical health such as Ready Set Gold, which provides an U.S. Olympian to speak with students, as well as jointly participate in exercise to emphasize the importance of living a healthy lifestyle.

We develop community partnerships that support students with generosity from the Loyola Marymount University Family of Schools, Brotherhood Crusade, A.C. Green Foundation, LAX Kiwanis, David Russell of OTIS, SoCalGas, the LAX Chamber Education Committee and the LAX Coastal Education Foundation which, together, provide tutoring, mentoring, college/career motivation, community art projects,

grants for teachers, as well as help grow our STEAM Makerspace and other school initiatives.

Westport uses a Whole Child lens of teaching to not only focus on academic needs of students, but their socialemotional needs as well. Students receive social emotional learning using Second Step and Sanford Harmony curriculums. Our outstanding preschool through fifth grade teachers provide opportunities for students to learn skills in self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, self-awareness and responsible decision making. Student engagement and practice in these areas build confidence and community among students in the classroom and beyond.

We’d also like to hightlight our school counselor, Jennifer Stark, who partners with parents in education and practice. She facilitates regular parent trainings to address the mental health needs of students. Currently, Westport has combined the skills of our

counselor, special education teacher and community representatives to facilitate a Parent Support Group for Remote Learning through virtual workshops. Stark also creates online resources for students, families and teachers to draw upon as tools to get them through any stress that might occur during remote learning and social distancing. Please check out her Virtual Calm Room at Bit.ly/ MsStarkCalmRoom to see one of the many opportunities students are given to practice skills such as emotional regulation as a positive coping strategy from home. During this time of remote learning, we welcome all to try our virtual calm room out if needed; we are all in this together!

We invite you to visit us at westportheightses-lausd-ca. schoolloop.com or call us at (310) 645-5611 for more information.

Contributed By Westport Heights ES.

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

Favorite THE

F A M I LY

Featured: Derek (Dad, Visitation basketball coach), Lynette (Mom, Room Parent, DEIR co-creator), and children Derek, Justin, and Avery

Meet the Favorites. The Favorites have been at Visitation since their oldest son was in 1st grade. While searching for schools, the Favorites wanted a small school that was a challenge academically and had strong family participation. It was also very important to their family to find a school that values diversity, equity and inclusion.

“Education is not just about what is on a test or written in a book. Education can happen when you are surrounded by your peers that come from different cultures and backgrounds,” says Lynette, co-creator of Visitation’s new Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Resolution committee (or DEIR).

“One of the best moments at Visitation is the morning announcements.

All of the classes meet in the courtyard (pre-covid) listen to announcements, recite a prayer and the pledge of allegiance. Looking across the courtyard you see the diversity in the children and the parents. It's a beautiful thing.“ This passion for celebrating diversity is what led Lynette, along with

several other parents and members of the faculty, to create DEIR. The goal of DEIR is be courageous and intentional in promoting understanding and addressing bias, respecting multiple perspectives and contributions, and valuing the dignity of all.

“The Diversity Equity Inclusion Resolution has a lot of inspiring ideas to get the students excited about celebrating the diversity of our community. My favorite goal is the book initiative. We will provide books to each classroom and library to showcase many cultures, family structures and abilities.”

Visitation is blessed to have dedicated volunteers like Lynette and Derek who help shape the future of our children’s education.

Email us to learn more about DEIR at BulldogsDEI@gmail.com.

Learn more about Visitation at visitationschool.org or follow us on social media. FB/VisitationSchoolLA | IG@visitation_school

visitation CATHOLIC SCHOOL www.visitationschool.org | 8740 Emerson Avenue, Westchester | 310.645.6620

Excellence Since 1947 Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

October 2020 • Page 11

Wright students participate in a STEAM Project.

Wright focuses on STEAM and REAL values for student success

Westside Neighborhood School students play and create in their unique classroom spaces.

WNS celebrates 40th anniversary of mission to create a community of lifelong learners Founded in the summer of 1980 with just 64 students on its roster, Westside Neighborhood School (WNS) now celebrates its 40th anniversary, with three campuses and more than 500 students from preschool through eighth grade. WNS embraces a child-centered approach to education that strives to fully develop the potential of each student intellectually, socially, emotionally and physically.

The youngest members of WNS celebrated coming back to school this September.

For some, this was their first day of school ever, while for others, it has been their first

day back to school since WNS closed its doors due to the global pandemic in March 2020. The preschool program at WNS is play-based and rooted in social-constructivist philosophy, principles and practices. Simply stated, we learn better together! Learning is a collaborative process and play is learning.

The indoor and outdoor classroom spaces at WNS are unique, engaging, and inspiring. In their environment, children can try their own ideas, communicate their thoughts, test things out and make appropriate adjustments, while reflecting on their experiences. Teachers

are there to provide guidance and encouragement for each child’s journey. They support children as they learn how to learn, become aware of themselves as learners and as they act as protagonists in their own learning.

WNS’s mission is to create a community of lifelong learners that nurtures students from diverse backgrounds to reach their full potential and inspires them to contribute to the world with confidence, creativity, curiosity, conscience and compassion.

Visit us online at wns-la.org to learn more and schedule a virtual admission presentation!

Contributed By WNS.

Wright Middle School STEAM Magnet is a neighborhood school offering two magnet programs, one of which is a newly established and thriving Gifted Magnet. We are also one of a small cohort of middle schools in LAUSD that have been accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), which confirms our commitment to providing highquality learning and model continual self-improvement.

Recognized as a model STEAM Magnet by the Magnet Schools of America, Wright offers honors and accelerated classes with a STEAM-focus.

What makes Wright unique is a focus on projectbased learning, integrated content lessons and cooperative learning. Students participate in experiences that develop skills necessary to excel in a STEAM field. Having been a pilot for the district’s focus on technology integration, Wright was well prepared for the transition to remote learning. Wright offers Project Lead the Way courses (Robotics and Flight & Space), honors/advanced mathematics, instrumental music and theater. Students participate in biannual STEAM integrated projects and present their projects at STEAM in Action events each semester. During a regular school year, students also participate in theatrical productions, instrumental concerts, produce their own music, compete on our Science Olympiad, Math Olympiad or Robotics team and build their leadership skills through Student Government.

At the core of it all, is an emphasis on REAL values: respect, empathy, ambition and leadership. These values guide student work and interaction. We have an active PTO, which partners with our school community in providing wonderful experiences for our students and families. We welcome you to join us on a virtual tour as we showcase how we Design-Build-Learn together at Wright STEAM and Gifted Magnet.

Visit wrightms.org to learn more.

Contributed By Wright STEAM Magnet.

Westchester Family of Schools comes together for town hall

By LAUSD Board Member Nick Melvoin As we continue to help our families navigate their kids’ education during this unprecedented time, we have been hosting a series of virtual town halls for each of L.A. Unified’s “Community of Schools” (COS) within my district.

We created this new COS model to provide more personalized support and increase local decision-making in our unique and dynamic school communities—including Westchester/ Page 12 • October 2020

Playa. We recently hosted our Westchester COS town hall, where we were joined by elected representatives, district leaders and neighborhood partners from the local community to share resources, discuss plans for this year and answer parents’ questions.

If you missed it, you can still stream it anytime in English and Spanish at facebook.com/nick.melvoin/ videos. You can also check out some highlights of our work in your school communities at boardmembermelvoin. com/community-accomplishments!

Please stay tuned for future virtual town halls by signing up for our newsletter and following @nickmelvoin on Facebook and Twitter, so we can continue to provide the resources and updates our families need to navigate this school year.

Thank you to Senator Ben Allen, Assemblymember Sydney KamlagerDove, Councilmember Mike Bonin, LAUSD Local Superintendent Dr. Adaina Brown, COS leader Jennifer Theodore-Sullivan, Darin Earley of LMU Families of Schools, Christina

Davis of the LAX Coastal Chamber of Commerce, Paula Gerez, Heather Tuttle and Dr. Michele CooleyStrickland from the NCWP and Gwen Vuchsas with the Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary Club for taking the time to share about the work you do for local schools. We know it takes a village and without the support of our district leaders, elected officials and community partners, we wouldn’t have the legislation, funding, support and volunteer efforts we need to ensure that our students can thrive.

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

At Open Charter, students learn through meaningful experiences Like an oasis away from the busy city, Open students, parents and staff come together to build a true community of respect where students learn through meaningful experiences. Open is one of the most unique schools in the district, being both a magnet and an affiliated charter elementary school serving LAUSD students from kindergarten through grade five. Our school is the best of both worlds: with our magnet program allowing us to have a diverse student body by offering transportation to students who reside in the city of Los Angeles, while our charter provides curricular autonomy to our highly-skilled teachers.

Founded in 1977 by innovative, like-minded parents and teachers who envisioned a school that would provide a nurturing and stimulating learning environment, Open Magnet Charter continues to strive toward excellence. Open School has been recognized as a National Magnet School of Merit and a three-time California Distinguished School.

During these unprecedented times, we have adjusted and shifted gears toward virtual learning. Our team was up to the challenge in March and still rise to the occasion daily to face these ever-changing situations. We continue to evaluate and prioritize— all the while keeping to our core

Open students, parents and representatives from SoCalGas and the LAX Coastal Education Foundation, celebrate the dedication of the school’s cistern last year.

beliefs and our guiding principles to stay true to who we are as a school.

When we can safely re-open our doors, people will once again be able to walk through our beautiful campus.

Nestled in the quiet community of Westchester, our school maintains a green landscape with many trees thoughtfully planted by TreePeople.

Visitors will see our large playground with a grassy field and discover that there is a cistern built under it to capture rainwater. They may find their way to our award-winning garden, sit under the gazebo or get to know one of our animal friends (chickens, guinea pigs, rabbits, tortoise, or the fish in the pond).

When you visit our campus, you will

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

feel the love at our school.

During a regular school year, the magic really happens in our classrooms, with the buzz of children constructing their own learning.

Collaboration is at the heart of our school where teams made up of two teachers share the same “cluster” of multi-age students.

Two brains are definitely better than one as our teachers design their lessons to tailor them for their students. Each cluster has its own theme that connects subject areas and concepts throughout the year. This thematic approach is not textbookbased, but instead allows the teachers to be the architects of the curriculum and to put students’ interests and needs first. The focus is not simply on learning about something, but also questioning it, thinking about it and using what has been learned in a meaningful way.

We invite you to come hear more at one of our three upcoming informational meetings, “Zoom into Open.” Please check opencharter. org for registration regarding these meetings which will be held midOctober/early November.

To apply through LAUSD, please visit lausdmagnets.com.

Contributed By Open Magnet Charter.

October 2020 • Page 13

Visitation students enjoy playing in the lunch area and the school’s playground earlier this year.

Visitation puts a spotlight on diversity with new curriculum, activities and professional development At Visitation, we are blessed to have a diverse student body which reflects the multicultural world around us. Through our pastor, principal, faculty and students, Visitation values and thrives on the diversity of peoples, cultures, religions, ideas and curriculum.

Visitation is striving for an ever-inclusive and equitable environment during a time of great pain for many in our community due to ongoing racial violence, discrimination and injustice.

“It is our duty to be courageous and intentional in promoting understanding and addressing bias, respecting multiple perspectives and contributions and valuing the

dignity of all.” This is the mission statement for Visitation’s new teacher and parent lead group, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Resolution (DEIR). The group is designed to help Visitation continue to foster and enhance a strong DEI culture. Working with our faculty, the group aims to enhance students’ education on actions we can take as a community to promote anti-racism and inclusion of all.

In early October, Visitation staff will be completing the second of a two-part professional development course with Darin Earley, Ed.D., Director of the Loyola Marymount University Family of Schools. The course is the first of many planned

that focus on Equity and Diversity Training. Visitation’s DEIR Group, alongside our principal, Chris Watson, will work to find similar and exciting programs and activities to bring to our staff, students and families.

For more information on the DEIR group’s near and far-term plans, please email BulldogsDEI@gmail. com.

In other exciting news on campus, we have just concluded our three-year financial campaign to Renew Visitation. After raising more than $3.5 million, Visitation has undergone many substantial upgrades and updates, including a beautiful new courtyard with

enhanced security on campus, a brand new community hall, modern bathrooms, a renovated play area and more greenery. Most recently, while the church was closed due to COVID, we have refurbished the interior of the church and the transformation is beautiful.

We invite the community to view a few of these updates by taking a virtual tour from the comfort of your home. The virtual tour will be available on our website shortly at visitationschool.org.

Private in-person tours can also be arranged by calling our parish office at (310) 216-1145.

Contributed By Visitation School.

Get involved in the Education Committee for ways to help support schools

By Heather Tuttle, NCWP Ed Chair Just as schools have experienced a whole new world of teaching and learning this fall, the Neighborhood Council of Westchester/Playa’s (NCWP) Education Committee has also found new ways to navigate during the pandemic.

Since March, the committee has continued to meet virtually, meeting the fourth Wednesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom. This year, we are thrilled to be working closely with the new Westchester Community of Schools (WCOS). Led by longtime Westchester resident and former Paseo del Rey principal, Jennifer Theodore Sullivan, the goal of WCOS

Page 14 • October 2020

Heather Tuttle is the chair of the Education Committee.

is to support 12 public LAUSD schools in Westchester/Playa. The committee looks forward to providing support and partnering with the WCOS as they work to tailor and customize resources to support the unique needs of our neighborhood schools. Providing parent education and workshops is one way the NCWP Education Committee hopes to strengthen, empower and advance the success of our schools this year.

Please visit our committee’s website to learn more about our local schools and how you can get involved at ncwpdr.org. It truly takes a village and the committee thanks you for supporting education and tomorrow’s leaders.

The NCWP represents the Westchester, Playa del Rey and Playa Vista area, and meets the first Tuesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. In addition to Education, other committees include Planning and Land Use, Airport Relations and Public Safety.

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

October 2020 • Page 15

WISH Community School continues to drive engagement with students The award-winning WISH Community School–serving students in TK through 8th grades–is excited for another great school year in Westchester. WISH is committed to a whole scholar approach to education, maximizing every student’s learning potential within an atmosphere of caring and belonging. From the very first day students arrive to each and every day thereafter, we focus on academic achievement, social justice through inclusivity and social emotional learning. We continue to be thrilled with our impact, as WISH continues to demonstrate incredible growth for each student served!

For this specific school year, WISH is extending its educational excellence in a distance learning environment.

Each grade experiences synchronously taught lessons with their teachers and have flexibility in the afternoons to choose to continue with synchronous or asynchronous learning. All students have the opportunity to participate in virtual social emotional lessons and receive additional oneon-one or small group assistance from their teachers as needed. We are proud of our young scholars and their determination to continue our traditions of awards assemblies, honor roll, student council, academic competition teams, sports and student socials!

To date, we are achieving 98 percent attendance and continue to drive deep engagement with our students and amazing families.

All students at WISH benefit from Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) instructional strategies used in all classes. Students also are highly engaged in STEM courses through the Launch and Gateway programs of Project Lead the Way (PLTW)!

Along with core curriculum subjects, all students participate in art, music, movement, gardening and library. In addition, every student experiences integrated technology which includes

Top: WISH students use a 3-D printer to make a model of the school’s mascot.

Bottom: The Kindness Club is one of many after school groups available at WISH.

digital citizenship, coding and game design!

For our younger students in TK through 5th grade, each child participates in weekly music, art, movement, technology, library and garden classes as part of our Whole Child Approach.

These classes are led by specialists in their field. We also have great extracurricular club offerings after school,

such as Student Council and a Kindness Club.

Our older scholars in 6th through 8th grade have the opportunity to experience math and English through Honors and Highly Accelerated Pathways that extend through 8th grade.

Our specialty class offerings expand broadly in middle school, as students are able to select how they would like

to experience these classes through a variety of electives, including theater, strings, digital composition, survival arts, sports conditioning and much more!

In addition to rigorous academics, WISH is committed to supporting our scholar’s social emotional learning and development. We are in our fourth year of implementing the R.U.L.E.R. program from Yale’s Center for Emotional Intelligence, and we are experiencing much success with identifying our feelings, values, and the kind of community members we want to be at school!

WISH students continue to love our clubs and sports teams. From Model United Nations, Crochet Club and Anime Club, to basketball, volleyball and track, the mighty WISH Owls provide many “Hoot Hoot Hoorays” across boys and girls athletics. We offer a variety of clubs for our students to get connected through a variety of leadership opportunities such as Student Council, Student Leadership, Robotics, Where Everybody Belongs (WEB), Student Ambassadors, Humans United and Kindness Club.

In addition to the more than 700 students that are part of the WISH Community family, WISH is also a demonstration site visited by educators around the world. Over the past few years, WISH has hosted visitors from California, 26 U.S. states and 12 countries.

Leaders in education come to WISH to learn about best practices in education, and we are thrilled to learn strategies and practices from them, too!

We are so proud of our scholars and grateful for our school community, and we would love for you to learn more about WISH! You can conduct a virtual tour of our school or signup to join our upcoming Zoom Q&A sessions by visiting wishcharter.org.

Contributed By WISH Charter.

Paseo del Rey prides itself in commitment to science and enrichment programs Welcome to Paseo del Rey Natural Science Magnet, home of the Stingrays! Paseo first opened its doors in 1962 and started as a small, neighborhood school. We are unique because we have continued to promote a strong learning community and family atmosphere. Paseo is a campus rich with a diverse student body, highly committed and skilled teachers and a rigorous curriculum. The relationship among teachers, families, students and our community partners allows us to attend to each student’s academic and social needs.

Our school prides itself on our deep commitment to natural science, Writer’s Workshop and Cognitively Guided Instruction (CGI) in Mathematics. Our instruction is tailored to the student’s level, and teachers regularly conference with students during reading, writing, and mathematics to determine where their next steps will Page 16 • October 2020

be and how to appropriately challenge students. Paseo teachers are highly trained and committed to cuttingedge curriculum and pedagogy. Many have earned advanced degrees and are Costen Fellows and National Board Certified. Our partnership with Loyola Marymount University (LMU) allows their student teachers to learn from Paseo’s highly effective teachers.

Paseo del Rey offers a variety of enrichment programs to ensure our students are prepared for the 21st Century.

During a regular school year some of our programs include: • Planet Bravo: Students receive weekly instruction in technology, based on the National Educational Technology Standards, which they incorporate into classroom projects.

• Writers Workshop: Teachers engage in classroom lab demonstration days, debrief by

looking at student work, plan and set a professional goal for the week.

Students learn how to become better writers, choosing their own topics within a genre.

• CGI Mathematics Instruction: Students are presented with different types of story math problems to solve and justify their reasoning. The role of the teacher is to observe students strategies in deriving an answer and posing questions to guide their mathematical thinking.

• YMCA Youth Yoga: Students receive yoga instruction two days a week through the generosity of the Drollinger Foundation.

• Dedicated Science Lab: Paseo has a dedicated Science Lab for all students TK-5 with a lab assistant that supports the teacher’s hands-on science instruction based on the Next Generation Science Standards.

• Musical Instruments and

Orchestra: We offer instruction on a variety of musical instruments, such as the violin, flute and saxophone.

• Dance: Our talented dance teacher provides instruction in dance techniques and traditional dances from the cultures of our diverse student population.

We are always enthusiastic about sharing information about Paseo del Rey! To find out more about our school, we invite you to attend one of our virtual school tours listed below: • October 8 at 9 a.m.

• October 15 at 2 p.m.

• October 29 at 9 p.m.

• November 5 at 2 p.m.

• November 12 at 9 a.m.

For more info, please visit our school website paseomagnet-lausd-ca. schoolloop.com or contact us at (310) 823-2356.

Contributed By Paseo del Rey.

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

October 2020 • Page 17

Loyola Village allows students to grow academically and artistically

Ms. Mickelopoulos points out the Seven Habits of Healthy Kids.

WLS makes plan to implement hybrid teaching model Since 1950, Westchester Lutheran School (WLS) has had a long excellent tradition of preparing and educating students in preschool through 8th grade. Students are taught to “believe, achieve, and lead” to reach their full academic and leadership potential in a caring, nurturing Christian environment. Westchester Lutheran School welcomes students of all faiths and ethnic backgrounds and is a microcosm of the diversity of the beautiful city of Los Angeles in which it resides. Westchester Lutheran School is well-known for its spirit of a family community where all members come together and support one another in the spirit of Christ.

As we all struggle to navigate the complexities of distance learning during the COVID-19 pandemic, Westchester Lutheran strives to recreate the same sense of community and excellence in teaching that we provide in more “normal” times.

Our staff stands ready to help families navigate the complexities of Zoom, Seesaw and Google Classrooms to provide a rich and challenging learning experience. Our goal is to keep all of our students functioning at grade level and above so that this does not become a “lost year” for any of our students.

As the COVID-19 infection rates continue to drop, we are making plans to implement a “hybrid” teaching

model, in which students will be able to safely be in class or at home and continue to take part in learning.

We anticipate that roughly 10 percent of our students will continue to make use of distance learning for the remainder of the 2020-2021 school year, and we plan to accommodate those needs. As soon as we are able to welcome children back safely and in accordance with L.A. County Public Health mandates, we will do so.

Despite the challenges of this time, we have maintained our full curriculum–nothing has been cut back–only adapted for distance learning during this time. We challenge our students with a rigorous academic program, but also incorporate religion and faith development, art, Spanish, computer use, music, PE and health. We also have a weekly chapel service, provided either by the pastor or by the teachers and their classes.

We recently incorporated “The Seven Habits of Happy Kids” into our school culture to teach children to be leaders and to develop a well-rounded, strong character. The seven habits are an adaptation of Stephen Covey’s book, “The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People,” and include the following habits: Be Proactive; Begin with the End in Mind; Put First Things First; Think Win-Win, Seek First to Understand and then to be Understood; Synergize; and Sharpen

the Saw. These “habits” help form a framework for the development of a lifestyle that is moral, responsible, stable and truly happy. As these basic habits of a happy and effective life are put in place and seen through the eyes of faith, children are able to integrate their faith in their lives to become amazing people and experience a life that is productive and meaningful.

After attending WLS, many students enter the high school of their first choice. Upon entrance, students are fully prepared to advance in the high school curriculum often placing into honors and AP level courses above their peers. WLS students enter the world fully prepared to be contributing members of society through sharing their gifts and talents with others and communicating their knowledge to make a difference in the lives of others. High school principals and teachers often express how prepared our students are for the academic rigors of high school.

Please visit our website at wlcs.org for more information. To schedule an in-person tour or to learn about our plans to re-open our preschool this fall, please contact our school office staff at (310) 670-5422.

All are welcome at WLS—Believing, Achieving and Leading since 1950!

Contributed By Westchester Lutheran.

The students attending Loyola Village Elementary, or LoVE, are receiving not only a quality TK through 5th grade education by highly qualified teachers, but are also receiving an extensive arts education from working professional fine and performing artists. The students engage in daily academic work, while taking classes and being exposed to all the art forms.

The Fine Arts teacher provides an extensive art curriculum teaching students how to work with clay, paint with pastels and how to use everyday recyclable items to create works of art that are displayed in our “LoVE Arts,” Art Gallery.

In our music program, TK through 5th grade students take vocal lessons and perform during our vocal concerts.

During a regular year, our “LoVE Choir” performs throughout the Los Angeles area at various concerts and events.

Interested in dance? Our dance teachers teach a variety of dance forms such as, jazz, ballet, modern, hip hop, rhythmic step, tap and African dance.

We have two performance ensembles, “LoVE Dance Ensemble” and “LADDE” (Loyola African Drum and Dance Ensemble), which have performed at Walt Disney Hall and Dorothy Chandler Pavilion.

Our theater program provides students with an opportunity to learn the art of acting by engaging in voice and movement for the stage, learning stage directions, stage management and stage production. The “LoVE Theatrical Artists” usually produces two to three productions per year, which include both full-length plays and dramatic stage readings.

Loyola Village Fine & Performing Arts Magnet is a school that focuses on developing the whole child, and preparing every child to be college- and career-ready. We do this while also instituting growth mindset practices, and mindfulness moments throughout the day, allowing students to develop academically and artistically.

Please call and make an appointment to take a tour of our awesome school!

You may also visit us online at loyolavillageartsmagnet.org or call (310) 6700480.

Contributed By Loyola Village.

WESM High School offers three magnets for students to excel in At Westchester Enriched Sciences Magnet (WESM) High School, students can succeed in a variety of pathways, including one of three magnet programs.

• The Health and Sports Medicine (HSM) Magnet. This program provides students in grades 9 through 12 with the unique opportunity to engage in a rigorous curriculum that connects athletics to biological principles. This magnet is the largest of the three Westchester Magnets, serving approximately 350 students.

Page 18 • October 2020

We believe in the inseparable connection between physical, mental and emotional health. Our motto, “Mens sana in corpore sano,” means “A sound mind in a healthy body.”

HSM students have the opportunity to participate in field trips, guest lectures and complete internships with healthcare professionals. One of our community partners–the Umoja Health Project based out of LMU, also provides academic tutoring, mentoring and support.

• The Environmental and Natural

Science (ENS) Magnet. The Environmental and Natural Science (ENS) Magnet is dedicated to teaching students about environmental and natural phenomena that comprise their everyday world. While our ultimate goal is to create collegeand career-confident students, we also strive to ensure that students have the basic science literacy skills needed to make informed decisions as participating members of society.

• The Gifted/Highly Gifted STEAM Magnet. WESM is the only LAUSD

gifted magnet high school on the westside.

The program supports approximately 200 students who are engaged in rigorous, thematic instruction that focuses on the integration of science, technology, engineering, art and math. Our core mission is to provide meaningful learning experiences that are anchored to scientific inquiry and focused on solving real-life problems that impact our world.

Contributed By WESM.

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

Kentwood community makes school special place to learn and grow Kentwood Elementary School is a true neighborhood school and is nestled in the heart of Westchester.

The Kentwood family of teachers, staff, students and parents are what makes Kentwood a very special place to learn and grow.

Below, read some perspectives from parents and students about our “big town school with a small town feel!”

“Tucked away in the quiet community of Westchester, Kentwood is a hidden gem of a community school, concealed within the sprawling city of Los Angeles. It has a truly diverse student population representative of this city, where mutual respect and empathy are cultivated. It is within this amalgam that the children, parents, faculty and administration come together as a community for the benefit of the students. There is strong parental involvement and support as is necessary to fully develop young minds, as they say, it takes a village.

Many of the faculty have spent a large part of their careers at Kentwood, some having gone on to earn their PhDs, a testament to both their passion for their vocation and the environment in which they work.

Academics are of course emphasized, however Kentwood serves not only to educate, but to build rounded young people better prepared for life. The sciences are not just theoretical, but made contemporary and practical by a

computer lab where students learn typing and coding, and an Innovation Lab where students can creatively explore, from simple construction in cardboard and Legos to robotics and 3D printing. There is an extensive library that annually receives new books so there is always fresh reading material for the students.

During a regular year, field trips further enhance the experience and allow the students to explore the governmental, natural and cultural world around them. The live student shows, yoga and dance programs provide both physical activity as well as new opportunities for creative individual expression. Community bonds are only strengthened by fun annual extracurricular activities such as Family Fun Day and ‘Trunk or Treat’ (including an outdoor evening movie).

Kentwood is truly a shining example of a Renaissance school bringing together math and the sciences, literature, art and culture into one comprehensive growth

experience for the children. This all occurs within a tight-knit community of support providing a safe and respectful environment in which to develop confident, well-adjusted and well-rounded young people ready to face the challenges that lie ahead of them.” –Richard N., school parent “Kentwood is the school that stands out for all the right reasons in my book. It’s a small school with a dynamic and dedicated cohort of true educators, diversity among the students and teachers, an extensive library and an amazing community of families. I am continually impressed by the quality of the teachers, staff and students. Now during distance learning, we have the rare privilege to see all that our amazing teachers are doing to engage, encourage and educate our kids. Needless to say, my husband and I are proud to say our kiddos are growing up ‘koaLA strong’!”–The Gilbert Family “Kentwood provides the things I need to learn and to have fun.

Kentwood is an awesome school with

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

lots of amazing teachers and staff, and that is why so many talented students are at Kentwood. There are lots of adventures along the way. We have so many fun things to do at Kentwood like our Halloween parade and Family Fun Day. Kentwood rocks!”–Taylor, 4th grade student “So many people think that they go to the best school, but you really haven’t seen a best school until you see Kentwood. Amazing teachers who are great helpers, friendly classmates who are there to help when you need it, and of course, the best principal that any elementary school could ever wish for. I just wish Kentwood went to college so I would never have to leave this amazing Kentwood family...

That is what you want from a truly great elementary school.”–Justin, 5th grade student “Kentwood has always been more than an elementary school to us.

The community connections are family. When you combine their top tier academics, it’s no wonder our daughter embraces and excels in education. The experience and commitment of the staff and teachers makes us proud to be koala strong!”

–The Teems Family As you can see, Kentwood Elementary is more than a school; we are a family.

For more information, please visit Kentwood-lausd-ca.schoolloop.

Contributed By Kentwood.

October 2020 • Page 19

St. Bernard students have adapted well to new methods of communication While distance learning in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic has created a sea change in how every school delivers instruction, St. Bernard High School (SBHS) shifted to the new paradigm quickly and smoothly and students are benefiting.

Using a wide array of tools ranging from Zoom classroom meetings and educational apps like EdPuzzle, teachers have developed innovative and unique lessons and are making the best of the situation by checking in with their students more than ever via email, Google-Chat, phone and more.

“This is a scary time, and our students may be high school-aged, but they are still just kids whose entire worlds have been turned upside down,” said language teacher Celeste Amos. “St. Bernard High School has always been an institution that values collaboration and has always put student success first. It is amazing to me to see how, even in the most difficult and uncertain of times, we have all come together with a single purpose: ensure that our students are supported educationally and emotionally.”

The bottom line, teachers say, is communication.

“I definitely miss seeing my students every day; I miss their enthusiasm and those ‘lightbulb’ moments when they truly understand a concept,” said

Jennifer Altergott teaches science to her students via Zoom.

science teacher Jennifer Altergott, who added that her students have become Zoom experts and have adapted well to new methods of communication.

Senior Celeste Reza said she appreciates how smoothly the school has transitioned to distance learning and added that the shift is proving to be a life lesson she and her classmates can learn from.

“I thought distance learning would be more difficult, however my teachers made it pretty easy,” she said. “With their help, open communication and zooming, I have been able to stay focused and complete assignments on time. This may be the new norm and can set an example of how capable change is.”

And while nearly everyone from teachers to students to parents would

welcome a return to face-to-face learning, the school’s adaptability and effectiveness in shifting to online learning has put both parents and students at ease.

“As a freshman parent, I’ve had a lot of anxiety and questions,” Shawnie Prater-Williams recently shared with SBHS Principal Richard Billups.

“I’m delighted to say that your staff has been outstanding in answering my email of concerns promptly and thoroughly. I’ve also been very happy to see how excited and motivated all my daughter’s teachers have been.

Even with the challenges of teaching through Zoom, they have all done an exceptional job teaching and keeping Julia engaged and interested. You and your staff are doing a wonderful job during a challenging time, and we are proud to be part of the Viking family.”

“I think the most significant realization I’ve had from this experience is just how united our school’s community is: we are all working together to support our students, both academically as well as emotionally,” said Amos, who added, “Our community is stronger than any calamity!”

Visit stbernardhs.org to learn more about this Playa del Rey Catholic High School.

Contributed By St. Bernard.

Cowan creates life-long learners and next generation of leaders At Cowan Avenue Elementary, we are committed to creating lifelong learners and fostering our next generation of leaders. We offer three distinct learning pathways to pique natural aptitudes and challenge our students to succeed.

Twenty-first century students require 21st century learning opportunities. This is the ideology currently driving Cowan’s STEM pathway. The experiences provided by our STEM education program offer students opportunities to excel. From computer coding and engineering, to innovations in technological fields, our aim at Cowan is to provide a variety of foundational experiences and exposure to many of the world’s fastest growing industries. With a new mathematical curriculum and increased access to informational texts, Cowan STEM students are exposed to relevant topics and

Page 20 • October 2020

trending ideas shaping modern industries. As we look for ways to best prepare our students, we will continue to seek out programs and opportunities to ensure that our students receive a well-rounded education to prepare them for the 21st century.

With the opening of our GATE International Humanities Magnet Center, our magnet pathway offers a special space to host foreign officials, cultural ambassadors and engage in a current affairs-based discussion club. In addition to a successful GATE standards-based curriculum, Cowan Magnet students develop a global perspective through the lens of the United Nation’s “Global Goals: For Sustainable Development.” These goals support greater awareness in our students and cultivate a foundation for leadership by helping our students to recognize and understand today’s

important social and economic issues.

Interdisciplinary topics included in this curricular study program target deep understanding of the issues surrounding climate action, sustainable energies, clean air and water, design and technological innovations, greater equality and quality education through domestic and sustainable global initiatives.

Cowan’s World Language Immersion program is the first of its kind in LAUSD. We are in our second year and are proud to offer a unique academic program tailored to native English-speaking families, who are interested in challenging their students to achieve bilingualism, bilteracy and academic achievement.

Our program features a 90 percent to 10 percent Spanish to English immersion ratio in kindergarten. This feature of our program helps us to develop fluency in Spanish through

reading, speaking and writing. In addition, our program strives to build greater knowledge of Spanishspeaking countries and their rich cultural traditions to deepen student appreciation for their learning. In this way, we hope to act as a bridge between communities, bringing people together through a love of learning. We look forward to the continued success and expansion of this program in the years to come.

Cowan’s pathways are united under the singular goal of academic excellence. Together, Cowan’s dedicated educators offer more than 250 years of teaching experience. This experience ensures that all Cowan students receive exceptional standards-based instructional opportunities.

Please contact our office for more info or tour opportunities at (310) 645.1973 or visit cowantigers.org.

Contributed By Cowan.

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

WISH Academy High is passionate about educating the whole scholar We are thrilled to share how WISH Academy High School has grown to a complete four-year program with exciting academic programs, CIF sports teams, leadership opportunities and really awesome clubs created through student and faculty partnerships!

WISH Academy continues its mission to maximize every scholar’s learning potential within an atmosphere of caring and belonging that’s grounded in collaboration, meaningful and engaging curriculum and a commitment to excellence for all of the young people we serve.

WISH Academy has four unique pathways for students to further develop a foundation in the areas they love.

Students can step into the role of a medical investigator, surgeon and biomedical engineer through our exciting and challenging Project Lead the Way Biomedical curriculum or they can design electronic devices or explore algae as a biofuel source in our Engineering pathway courses. Alternatively, students can participate in the amazing experience of performing in live theater, dance and musical productions with the Visual and Performing Arts pathway or if they have strong feelings

A WISH student focuses on a STEM project.

about justice, current affairs, political science and the world, they can choose to dive into the Liberal Arts and Civic pathway.

“We are passionate in educating the whole scholar in terms of their academic accomplishments and social emotional well-being, as well as offer opportunities for our students to make positive changes in the local

and broader community,” declares Dr. Jennifer Branch, WISH Academy High School principal designee.

“From the diverse and challenging courses and programs we offer, to the small class sizes, to the individualized attention and support each student receives, we ensure each child’s achievement is maximized.”

Parents and families recognize the

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

importance of selecting a quality high school where their child can grow, develop and succeed in various ways.

WISH schools pride themselves on our family partnerships and open communication. We work together to ensure quality, access, commitment, encouragement, engagement and much more, so our students thrive individually and collectively.

“My 10th grader is now exploring so many more opportunities because of the unique pathways offered by WISH Academy that have her so excited to learn every day,” shared Ms. Oatley, parent to a 10th grader. “They love the office hours for personal interaction with their teachers and the afternoon activities that continue to inspire her to learn. We are so thankful for this school and how they have outperformed in distance learning, too.”

For parents and students looking for a compelling, comprehensive high school experience that prioritizes college and career readiness, lifelong friendships, extra-curricular awesomeness, and one that will always support education for all students, WISH Academy High School is here!

Contributed By WISH Academy.

October 2020 • Page 21

Page 22 • October 2020

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

Westchester/Playa Historical Society: Women’s Suffrage 100 years before and 100 years later

By Cozette Vergari This year is the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the Nineteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, prohibiting the states and federal government from denying citizens the right to vote based on gender. Yet the struggle for women’s suffrage began nearly a century earlier, when women began to speak out about inequality and conventions began to be established in protest of the discrimination against women and minorities. In practice, however, in 1920, non-white women still faced the same obstacles that hindered non-white males in their right to vote, under the criteria set forth initially in the U. S. Constitution.

The Voting Rights Act of 1965 has been applied to correct those discriminatory election policies.

As early as 1820, women were questioning why they did not have the right to vote. Women in the United States began organizing to rally and proclaim their right to vote. In 1848, two years before California became a state, the first organized event bringing substantial attention to the issue was the Seneca Falls Convention in Rochester, New York led by Elizabeth Cady Stanton, where she presented the Declaration of Sentiments.

In 1851, Elizabeth Cady Stanton met Susan B. Anthony, another New Yorker, through their shared goals in the women’s suffrage movement, as well as

other social equality issues, including the abolition of slavery. They became lifelong friends and formidable leaders in social reform activities.

In 1850, the first statewide convention–the Ohio’s Women’s Convention–was held in Salem, Ohio. It is thought to be the first public meeting in the U.S. where the organizers, participants and officers were exclusively women, with Harriett Taylor Upton being one of the leading voices in the movement for a woman’s right to vote. This convention is also considered a pivotal point for women’s suffrage that led to a long road of 70 years before the ratification of the Nineteenth Amendment.

The first National Women’s Rights Convention met in Worcester, Massachusetts, on October 23 and 24, 1850, meeting annually thereafter in different states until 1869. Some 900 people showed up for the first session, men forming the majority, with several newspapers reporting more than a thousand attendees by the afternoon of the first day and more turned away outside. Delegates came from 11 states, including one delegate from California–a state only a few weeks old.

Lucy Stone was key to the organization of these conventions, sustaining the fight for a woman’s right to vote.

She urged the assemblage to petition their state legislatures for the right of suffrage, the right of married women

to hold property, and as many other specific rights as they felt practical to seek in their respective states as equals. However, the conventions ceased soon after the Civil War as focus shifted toward American equality for all, and was replaced by broader focused conventions, including discrimination against women, minorities and the poor.

It is known that Susan B. Anthony, in her 30s at the time, was inspired by the leadership of Lucy Stone. In 1863, Anthony and Elizabeth Stanton founded the Women’s Loyal National League, which conducted the largest petition drive in United States history up to that time, collecting nearly 400,000 signatures in support of the abolition of slavery. In 1866, they initiated the American Equal Rights Association, campaigning for equal rights for both women and AfricanAmericans.

In 1869, Anthony and Stanton also founded, along with Lucy Stone and Lucretia Mott, who was 76-years-old at the time, the National Woman Suffrage Association in New York, to isolate and promote the right to vote for women.

Anthony was a key force in this movement. In 1872, she was arrested for voting in her hometown of Rochester, New York, and convicted in a widely publicized trial. Many women suffered arrest and abuse for marching for their right to vote.

In 1878, Anthony and Stanton

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arranged for Congress to be presented with a constitutional amendment, giving women the right to vote.

Introduced by Senator Aaron Sargent, a Republican from California, it later was tagged the Susan B. Anthony Amendment. It was eventually ratified as the Nineteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution in 1920.

When Anthony, traveling worldwide, first began campaigning for women’s rights, she was harshly ridiculed and accused of trying to destroy the institution of marriage.

Public perception of her changed radically during her lifetime, however.

Her 80th birthday was celebrated in the White House at the invitation of President McKinley. She became the first female citizen to be depicted on U.S. coinage, when her portrait appeared on the 1979 dollar coin.

The Women’s suffrage movement in California began in the 19th century and was successful with the passage of Proposition 4 in 1911, granting women the right to vote. Republican State Senator Charles Bell from Pasadena sponsored senate Constitutional Amendment No. 8, after a similar Amendment had been defeated in 1896. Senate Constitutional Amendment No. 8 was adopted by the State Legislature and approved as Prop. 4 by voters in a referendum held as part of a special election on October 10, 1911. (continued on page 27)

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October 2020 • Page 23

Woman’s Club of Playa del Rey and Silicon Beach Social work to make a difference in community

By Lydia Smith A sense of community and that feeling of belonging is something that everyone aspires to achieve in their lives. For 82 years, the women of Playa del Rey, Westchester and neighboring communities have succeeded in this goal through the Woman’s Club of Playa del Rey. The Woman’s Club is a place for fellowship, civic duty, philanthropy and fun, according to president Margarita Diosomito. They strive to enhance the lives of others through promoting volunteering, education and progressive ideas. They are part of the national organization, General Federation of Woman’s Clubs, founded in 1890, which is comprised of more than 3,000 philanthropic clubs globally.

The Woman’s Club of Playa del Rey is also award-winning and in May was honored with the Marina District’s annual perpetual trophy for having an almost 30 percent increase in membership. This active group of 78 women support each other and the community through activities that range from a walking club to collecting food for the LAX Food Pantry.

Diosomito is proud of the work that the group does for those in need.

“Serving my second term as president, my passion to lead the Woman’s Club is just as strong, as the organization continues to make a difference in the community and in the lives of those who need help the most,” said Diosomito. “Through my involvement with the Woman’s Club, there is a sense of accomplishment toward doing something good, which in turn makes a difference in our personal lives.”

The list of nonprofits that the Woman’s Club supports is long, but some of their most successful partnerships occur in their Helping Hands program where they assist other local nonprofits. Some of their favorite projects include creating toiletry bags for Power of a Shower, which provides access to showers for the homeless; donating purses with necessities and toiletries for Rainbow Services, an organization that assists women who are victims of sex trafficking and domestic abuse; raising money for S.P.Y. (Safe Place for Youth), which supports homeless youth; making dresses for children in Malawi; and holding drives to collect plastic to be made into Buddy Benches, a program Page 24 • October 2020

that helps provide bully-free zones and encourages inclusivity. The list goes on and on.

Late last year the club decided they needed to reach out to a younger demographic, especially working women who could not attend their mid-day monthly meetings. In January, the Woman’s Club sponsored a new organization, Silicon Beach Social, which has hit the ground running— even in a pandemic.

At the core of this new group is the desire to give back and support the community. Silicon Beach Social’s president, Alexis Rowley, was thrilled to get to work supporting and promoting philanthropic causes, helping local businesses and creating a place for women to network, both socially and professionally. To help build professional connections with the organization, Silicon Beach Social requires new members to submit their resume to the club. Their board of directors then pairs new members with a current member in a similar line of work or a completely opposite line of work so they can learn about each other and see if there are ways that they can help each other in a professional capacity.

In January, Silicon Beach Social held their first event with a charity flag football game to raise funds for the New South Wales Rural Fire Service during the Australian wildfires. They had 60 people participate and were able to raise $1,500 to send to Australia when it was needed the most. Rowley credits the Woman’s Club of Playa del Rey with aiding them in their success from the beginning.

“The Woman’s Club of Playa del Rey is inspiring and supports us every step of the way,” said Rowley.

It goes without saying that both clubs, as well as our world, changed in the middle of March. When the pandemic hit and life was shut down, both groups quickly had to figure out how to continue their philanthropic work and keep their members engaged in a socially distant world. Although their activities may look different, the work continues. Both groups came together to celebrate the 100th anniversary of women’s right to vote in August with a food drive to support the LAX Food Pantry. Dressed in traditional white suffragette attire, they raised more than $1,200 in donations and collected 216 bags of food, weighing more than 2,000 pounds, at a

Silicon Beach Social members recently hosted a canned food drive that also included partnering with The Good Pizza.

drive-through food collection event.

The Woman’s Club of Playa del Rey has continued to have meetings utilizing Zoom and also offer their members technical support to learn this new way of communicating. Recently, their walking club has resumed, although now walkers wear masks and keep six feet apart. They’ve also started their twice-a-month bingo games again, which have been christened “Patio Bingo” with their setup moving outdoors, with spaced tables and limited participants. They’re still keeping busy with as many philanthropic endeavors as they can safely achieve, including making masks for St. Joseph’s Center to distribute to people who need them.

Silicon Beach Social is holding monthly meetings over Zoom as well.

They have pivoted some of their charitable efforts to supporting local businesses. Their new Supper Club initiative encourages community members to shop local and purchase from their selected eatery during the event. Their most recent Supper Club featured Playa del Rey’s The Good

Pizza, and Silicon Beach Social was able to sell 65 pizzas in just two hours!

“We want nothing more than to see our local community thrive. If we can play just a small role in that, we will be happy,” said Rowley.

Wanting to discuss topics like social justice, equality and anti-racism, Silicon Beach Social has also launched a Zoom series for its members called “Talk, Listen, Learn.”

Both the Woman’s Club of Playa del Rey and Silicon Beach Social are always looking to welcome new members.

They invite interested women (Silicon Beach Social is open to men joining too) to visit their websites, wcpdr.org and siliconbeachsocial.org to learn more. Both groups invite potential members to a complimentary meeting to learn what the clubs are all about.

If you would like to make an impact in your community and want to network with your neighbors, the groups may be just the thing you are looking for.

As Diosomito says, “It’s about being involved, staying connected and making a difference.”

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

October 2020 • Page 25

Random Notes/Opinion

TheHTN.com

Start an exercise routine to help improve your mood

By Jeff Blair Opinion: 2020 has been “different.”

A global pandemic, civil unrest and disrupted lives have many people feeling anxious and even disoriented.

One CDC survey found 40 percent of people have suffered serious mental or emotional challenges during the pandemic. Other studies have shown even higher reports of elevated stress, anxiety and depression.

Physical activity levels have dropped.

One study of fitness tracker activity found a 27 percent reduction in steps.

I believe the drop in physical activity explains much of how people are feeling. It is not the only factor, but I think it plays a big part. I will explain the connection below. Please note the following is not a substitute for appropriate medical or other professional help when that is indicated.

Until about 12,000 years ago, humans spent much of their days hunting and gathering food. Physical activity was necessary for survival. When you include our ancestors, it is estimated 84,000 generations lived the huntergatherer lifestyle. Daily life involved finding and preparing food, avoiding physical danger and securing shelter.

While some of the activity was

strenuous, much was moderate such as walking. All that activity deep wired us to move. For 99-plus percent of our history, exercise was not optional if you wanted to eat. During the pandemic, we sit in Zoom meetings 10 hours a day. We then slide to the couch for some Netflix. Is it any surprise we do not feel good?

Do not just take my word on it. Let’s consider some evidence.

A 2018 meta-analysis (some of the strongest available evidence) showed that people who exercised consistently were less likely to develop depression.

This was true in all age groups, for both men and women, and could be seen throughout the world. The authors believe there are multiple reasons for the protective effect of exercise.

Many of these are physical. Some are psychological such as increased selfesteem. There are others we might not even understand.

A 2018 University of Michigan study found a connection between physical activity and happiness.

Even a small amount of exercise (10 minutes per day or exercising twice per week) increased happiness. Those who exercised more than 30 minutes per day had the highest happiness levels. The specific reason is again not

completely clear. Physical responses such as endorphin release can play a part. Some might enjoy the social benefit of exercising with other people.

Achieving physical goals usually makes people feel better and that might contribute to greater happiness.

A 2018 Yale and Oxford study found Americans who exercised experienced 43 percent fewer days of poor mental health than those who did not exercise.

Three to five times per week for about 45 minutes was the sweet spot. Exercising more than that did not improve mental outlook. This study was covered in the media as the “exercise is more important than money” study since exercise seemed to impact happiness at a greater level than money.

A 2019 Harvard study published in the JAMA Psychiatry Journal found 15 minutes of higher intensity exercise like running or 60 minutes of moderate intensity exercise like walking decreased depression risk by 26 percent.

While our studio is still operating outdoors, most are closed due to no outside workout space. If your gym is closed, consider hiking, walking or running or performing home exercises such as pushups. While home exercise equipment might still be in short supply, body weight exercises can also

provide a good workout. Bike riding is another great option.

Different studies recommend different amounts of exercise, but three to five times per week for 30 to 45 minutes is a great goal. If you can achieve that, you are almost guaranteed to feel better. If you cannot achieve those levels, even a small amount of exercise (10 minutes per day) can improve your mood. Do what you can. Think of how it increases your enjoyment of life rather than being something you “have” to do because someone else told you to do it.

My take-home message is there is nothing more reliable than exercise to make you feel better. If you are struggling like millions of Americans, find a way to work some level of exercise into your schedule.

Always observe social distancing and other public health recommendations when exercising near others.

Jeff Blair (MS CSCS) is a certified personal trainer and author. He has been training in Westchester since 2002 and is currently working on his second book. Contact him at jeff@ socalsport.com *Before you start any fitness routine, please consult your doctor.

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Page 26 • October 2020

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

Turning difficult times into a growth opportunity

By Fay Craton

Opinion: This year, 2020, has left most of us shocked. Frequently I hear the phrase, “Who ever thought we would find ourselves here?” The age of COVID has forced us to change our life patterns. Systems and the way things are accomplished have and are continuing to change. Sometimes frustration results when the internet and our phones are inadequate while attempting to accomplish tasks in a timely manner. Irritation is rampant about many things concerning daily life, but it is not just figuring out new ways to accomplish tasks that has made life difficult. While we have all been impacted in the way we socialize, in many instances, seniors and disabled individuals have been impacted the greatest, with the activities which brought them connection and human touch no longer safe. Isolation and distancing from family and friends are creating a sense of alienation. The fabric of right, wrong, human decency and civil behavior is very frayed.

What has been perceived as good in our world is shaken. Expectations as to how to live have been jolted. People are rethinking their support systems, social groups, loyalty and the truth of what is being said both within homes and the world at large. In speaking with both clients and friends, I am hearing

increasing intolerance in accepting bad behavior. Along with the negative shock waves, there is some positive things possibly very slowly emerging.

People are wanting to emerge from this time of upheaval with healthy minds, bodies and connections.

As you examine what you want in your life it is important to consider: • How do you change annoyance to a more tolerable feeling? Frustration is normal. However, clinging to it will only make your feeling of stress increase. By being mindful of your feelings, you can reclaim your sense of personal power. When frustrated I find it beneficial to do yoga breathing or go look at my garden. Also helpful is to consciously look for the blessings in my life. If I am so frustrated my mind blanks out on my blessings, I begin to look for a way I can be a blessing.

• Consider the role personal integrity has on your own life and on the lives of those you care about.

• Solid, healthy relationships are built on trust, loyalty, openness and vulnerability. If you are not honest, you will ultimately create insecurity within those around you. If you are not kind in your words, instead of openness and vulnerability you will create distance and defensiveness. Trust takes a long time to build. If it is lost, it can take a long time (if ever) to reestablish.

• Are you creating relationships

where your spouse, children or other significant people in your life feel emotionally safe with you? This requires respect and demonstrated caring from you toward the important people. People can feel alienated even when they are physically close to another person. You can help your family overcome a sense of isolation through considering their emotional and physical needs. Explore actions you can take to nurture those around you.

• Consider whether or not you are projecting your own insecurities onto another person. Dumping your own hurt and pain onto another person to make them feel your pain and unhappiness creates separation and harms relationships.

• Healthy connection requires authentically caring about another person. Consider whether or not your words are reinforcing what you know to be another person’s insecurity trigger. When you choose to fling hurtful words at another person you are destroying the quality of your relationship.

• Are you creating shared activities with people you care about? Families thrive when engaged in activities which are enjoyable for everyone.

Especially in today’s world, taking care of your body and mind is as important as connecting to others.

The changes and stressors we are all experiencing can easily become anxiety and depression. If you have a substance misuse challenge, extra care is necessary to stay sober. It is important to seek appropriate medical care if you need it. Avoiding self-care and medical care will only prolong the anxiety or depression trigger points.

Frustration, anger, stress and depression are normal. Experiencing them does not mean you have a character flaw. It does mean that your normal coping methods are overwhelmed by extreme circumstances. You should seek professional assistance if you are taking your frustration out on other people or are finding you are not fully functioning.

My wish is for you to take advantage of this time of disruption to cultivate what you want in life. I encourage you to turn your thoughts away from what makes you anxious or afraid. Place your thoughts and feelings onto what you desire.

Fay Craton, M.A. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (mfc40011), which is the psychology license specializing in relationships (with ourselves or with others), and she has an office in Westchester.

For more info, please visit communicationtriangle.com or contact her at (310) 645-6762.

Historical Society (cont’d) (continued from page 23) Commencing in the 1860s, a small number of activists in California began mobilizing for women’s suffrage.

In 1868, orators Laura de Force, just 30 years of age and the second female to be admitted to practice law in California, and Anna Dickinson, just 26, gave a series of lectures advocating for women’s suffrage. In 1869, Emily Pitts Stevens, co-founder of the California Woman Suffrage Association, along with others, organized the first Pacific Coast suffrage meeting in San Francisco.

Early in the suffrage movement in California, there was an extensive amount of connection between western suffragists and national suffrage organizers on the east coast.

De Force, Dickinson and Stevens came to the attention of Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Stanton. In 1871 Stanton and Anthony took their only trip to California and drew large crowds during their speaking engagements.

In 1870, Laura de Force Gordon founded the California Woman Suffrage Society, working with lawyer and suffragist Clara Shortridge Foltz, the first female to be admitted to practice law in California and after which the Los Angeles Criminal Courts Building is named.

In 1894, the Republican Party in the state of California endorsed women’s suffrage. On November 3, 1896 California Constitutional

Amendment 6 made it to the ballot, but was defeated, with a vote of 137,099 to 110,355, with 55.4 percent of the voters voting to deny women the right to vote in California.

African-American women in California had also been working for suffrage. The Fannie Jackson Coppin Club, organized in Alameda County, was extremely active in the suffrage movement, led by Lydia Flood Jackson and Hettie B. Tilghman. Flood Jackson also served as a leader of the California Federation of Colored Women’s Clubs.

Tilghman was heavily involved with the League of Women Voters in the 1920s. Naomi Anderson also traveled throughout the state to campaign for suffrage.

One of the major organizers of the 1911 suffrage campaign in Southern California was Maria de Lopez, the youngest person and first Latina to teach at UCLA, and the president of the College Equal Suffrage League.

She instituted a campaign among Spaniards and Mexicans, touring the state speaking and serving as a Spanish translator for the movement.

Cozette is an attorney and lifelong resident of Westchester. She is the President of the Westchester/Playa Historical Society. Together with a group of dedicated volunteers, the organization is working on creating new programming and events to celebrate the history of the area and engage the community in preserving it for future generations.

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

October 2020 • Page 27

ABCs of nutrition for back to school, Part 2

By Sheri Weitz, RDN, CDE, Contributing Columnist

Opinion: Recess is over… and now it’s time to get back to class! In last month’s column, we went over basic guidelines for healthy meals, emphasizing the importance of optimal nutrition for academic performance.

For Part 2, I have more strategies to help your kids eat healthier. I’m also going to address the delicate topic of how to decrease the risk of disordered eating in adolescents. For more than two decades I’ve worked with eating disorders, including as Director of Nutrition Therapy for the Rader Institute and Monte Nido in Calabasas, where I developed its treatment protocols. This article will only be a basic look at preventing disordered eating, and I encourage any parent who thinks their child may have a potential problem to seek the help of a therapist and a Registered Dietitian whom are specialists.

Disordered eating patterns can be influenced by multiple factors: genetics, what people see in social media, movies and magazines and sometimes just a casual comment. It’s reported that singer Karen Carpenter started dieting as a teenager after being called chubby and would eventually become anorexic.

I’ve often recommended the classic book “How to Get Your Kids to Eat but Not Too Much” by Ellyn Satter.

That’s usually the name of the game,

right? We want our children to eat well, but in moderation! Let’s look at some strategies to increase the odds.

Even if your kids are picky eaters and won’t eat your wonderful cooking, do your best to honor their likes and dislikes. If our kids are forced to eat when not hungry, how do they learn how to honor their hunger, or lack thereof? If they’re forced to finish their dinner, even foods they dislike, how do they know if they’re satisfied vs. stuffed? Avoid enforcing what I like to call the “Clean Plate Club.” Try and minimize using food as a reward or a punishment. Encourage your kids to express their feelings and find ways to celebrate or discipline your children that aren’t food-based.

Families who typically eat in front of the TV make it difficult for their children to develop intuitive eating skills. How can we connect with our hunger and fullness when we’re being hypnotized by the TV? Stopping when full, one of the best strategies for lifelong weight control, simply can’t occur when families make a ritual of eating while watching TV, and that includes meals and snacks.

What we model for our kids also speaks volumes. If my child sees me chronically dieting, they could get the message that food is a struggle and dieting is the answer. We all know diets don’t work in the long term. They would also learn food taboos, such as avoiding all high-fat foods, completely

avoiding sweets, or whatever the forbidden foods happen to be on the “diet du jour.” Children of parents who chronically diet get so many rules in their heads that it’s hard for them to become intuitive eaters. Try and avoid “diet talk” around kids and instead focus on eating for health–not weight. Make it a habit to exercise as a family for bonding and wellbeing.

Many parents feel it is challenging to get their kids to eat fruits and vegetables. Here are some tips: • Serve raw or cooked veggies prior to meals. If your kid is hungry, they are more likely to start eating them as an appetizer.

• Serve vegetables at every meal if possible, even sneaking them into breakfast with a little frozen kale and berries in a smoothie, sautéing spinach with eggs or making a veggie omelet with a side of fresh fruit instead of juice.

• Have containers of colorful, cut-up vegetables available throughout the day so your kids can grab them. See if they’ll try hummus with veggies for a highprotein, healthy alternative to ranch dressing.

• Be sneaky and hide veggies in meatloaf, spaghetti and any dish you can.

• Practice what you preach and eat fruits and veggies in front of your kids.

• Have your kids cook with you, making it a fun, family activity. Try new recipes with vegetables in them.

Children tend to want to eat a food which they’ve taken pride in preparing.

Let’s remember that moderation is the key. If we’re too strict, our kids are more likely to rebel. Allow your children to become intuitive eaters so

Weitz is a local dietitian and enjoys teaching Zumba at local spots.

they can discover their true hunger, and stop eating when they’re full. Model healthy eating, stay active as a family and refrain from negative comments about weight or body size.

During this crazy time of Zoom schooling and pandemic trick-ortreating, let’s be positive role models around food and exercise to avoid unnecessary scares this Halloween.

Sheri Weitz, RDN, CDE is a Registered Dietitian with a private practice in Westchester, and she provides clinical nutrition services for Manchester Medical.

Sheri also teaches Zumba classes…her “happy pill.” To find out more about her services, visit MovetoWellness.net.

Pastor, Larry Becker

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Page 28 • October 2020

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

October 2020 • Page 29

OCTOBER 2020

OCTOBER 2020

Photos courtesy the pet owners.

1st Annual Pet Photo Contest 1st Annual Pet Photo

Contest

Chilidawg

Sumo

Timid

Frankie Looking at pictures of cute animals has been shown to relieve stress, so we thought hosting a Pet Photo Contest would be a great opportunity for local residents to practice their photo skills, bond with their pets and virtually share their furry pals with the community.

The HTN received more than 140 photos for our first photo contest, and we loved receiving emails with pictures and stories from our readers about how much their pets mean to them. While many dogs and cats often provide emotional support, during this challenging time, they’ve also provided needed companionship, laughs and cuddles.

All of the photos we received were uploaded to our Facebook page and community members were invited to scroll through the album and give a like to any pet that had a great photo, looked cute or put a smile on their face! In the end, a mixed bulldog named Frankie from Westchester took home our top dog prize with the most likes!

Chilidawg, a King Charles/poodle mix and Sumo, a tiny but mighty Chihuahua from Playa del Rey, took home second and third. These three pups will all receive gift baskets courtesy of Playa Vista’s Annenberg PetSpace. In our eyes though, all our pet photo contestants are winners!

If looking at these photos inspires you to want a pet of your own or add to your family, check out PetSpace’s website for a list of adoptables that are looking for their furever home!

Thank you to everyone who participated in this fun contest! This is just another way we’re looking to add some cheer, provide some prizes and host an activity during our time Safer at Home!

Check out some of our favorites here, and if you need a happy distraction, visit facebook.com/ thehtn to view the full Pet Photo Contest album!

Billy Cooper

Lexi

Miss P Riley Rey

Chicken

Churro Riley Jane

June

Izzy Page 30 • October 2020

Lizzy

Riley

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

Otis

Cooper

Copper

Hairy Kobe

Cricket

Luna Dot Tucker

Parker

Hazel

Bowie

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Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News