Westchester/Playa HomeTown News August edition

Page 2 • August 2017

BEST OF 2017

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

This Month Brings You A look inside your HTN Rotarian raises money to fight polio 2017 Best Of Results

04 05

HOMETOWN STAFF/CONTRIBUTORS Stephanie Davis, Publisher, Editor Jeff Blair, Contributing Writer Fay Craton, Contributing Writer

Rebecca Hill, Secret Recipes of the Inn Kirby Israelson, Graphic Design

Advertisers’ Directory

Airport Marina Counseling

40 Amy Frelinger Team 20 Ayara Thai Cuisine 09 AYSO Region 7 34 Blue Diamond Jewelers 13 Cantalini’s Salerno Beach 12 Cedars-Sinai Hospital 15 Crossfit Aviators 14 Covenant Presbyterian Church 39 Del Rey Optometry 16 Drollinger Properties 27, 28, 38 El Segundo Car Wash 41 Emerson Avenue Community Garden 31 Food Pantry, LAX 39 Good Pizza 11 Inn at Playa del Rey 18 Jane St. John 21 Kentwood Elementary School 28 LAX Coastal Area Chamber 24 LiveYoga Wellness 14 Loyola Marymount 2, 26 Marina del Rey Hospital 44 Neighborhood Council 37 Playa West Automotive 27 Playa Pharmacy 16 Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary 31

Playa Vista Urgent Care Rainbow Acres-Washington Blvd.

Regatta Capital Group RPM Mortgage Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse MDR Socal Sports and Fitness Stephanie Younger Group St. Anastasia School St. John Health Center Playa Vista Tony P’s Dockside Grill Tower Pizza Truxton’s American Bistro Vergari and Napolitano Visitation School Westchester Elks Lodge Westchester Family YMCA Westchester Farmers’ Market Westchester’s Jewel and Playa’s Treasures Westchester Lutheran Westchester Rotary Westchester Town Center BID Westchester Watch Works Westside Pacific Village WISH Charter School Zacha Homes

17 09 40 19 12 41 23 33 29 11 13 07 20 35 25 17 38 04 03 30 03 24 30 34 36

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 • Phone: (310) 641-1016 Website: thehtn.com • Facebook: facebook.com/thehtn The deadline for submissions is the 22nd of each month.

Celebrate Freedom!

Start thethe New Year looking inthe theright rightdirection...Up! direction...Up! Start the New in the right direction...Up! Celebrate Start the NewYear Yearlooking lookingFreedom! in the right direction...Up! Start New Year looking in

WORSHIP WITH US– Sundays at 10 am

Celebra Start the New Year lo Start the New Year lo Star theNewYearlo kingintherightdirection. Up!

Star theNewYearlo kingintherightdirection. Up! Freedom from from doubt. from fear.fear.

Freedom doubt.Freedom Freedom from AUGUST CAMPS– Join usAugust at Westchester Lutheran July 31 us to 4: Waterpalooza Week Church, Join at Westchester Lutheran and embrace the freedom found inCamp aChurch, July 31 to August 4: Minecraft Adventure and embrace the freedom with found loving, forgiving relationship thein a August 7 toforgiving 11: Under relationship the Sea Week with the loving, Lord. Join new friends in a celebration of August 7Join to 11:new Wolfpack COD3 everything that isfriends possible when you live of Lord. in Camp a celebration August 14 to 18:that Science Week in harmony with thepossible Word. when you live everything is August 14 to 18: DIY Maker Camp in harmony with the Word.

August 21 to 25: Basketball Camp August 21 to 25: Famous Artists Week All are welcome.

August 28 to September 1: Anything Goes Week

ComeAll celebrate with us! are welcome.

2017-2018 School Year Begins Come look look up up with with us. us.

Come Come celebrate with Tuesday, September 5thus!

All are welcome.

Weekly Worship

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July 29-August 2

Come look up with with us. us.

Come look Summer Choir up Rehearsal Sundays at 9 a.m.

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July 29-August 2 7831 S. Sepulveda Blvd.

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

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Best Of 2017

August 2017 • Page 3

Westchester resident readies to run 135-miles through Death Valley to help end polio

Rotarians show their support for DeCou with shirts that read “Go, Rob, Go!” on the back at a recent Rotary breakfast. DeCou (right) poses with wife Kristin (top right), son Hudson and Rotary District Governor, Cozette Vergari, at the breakfast.

Page 4 • August 2017

BEST OF 2017

impossible and that I can’t possibly finish. For those who know me best I hope you say in a quiet confident voice, ‘watch him.’”

DeCou will be joined in the run by two fellow ultra runners and incredible Native American athletes, Maria “Mariposa” Walton, and David “Alapatwu-Running Deer” Nelson. For moral support and encouragement, a group of Rotarians will be joining them along the route across Death Valley. Rotarians will also be celebrating DeCou’s run at locations throughout Los Angeles starting at 6 p.m. on Monday, August 7 as he crosses the finish line.

Locally, the community is invited to celebrate DeCou’s run at Tony P’s Dockside Grill and the LAX Coastal Chamber. A complete list of party locations and details can be found at portal.clubrunner.ca/50010/ SitePage/rob-s-run.

To help keep him motivated, a large group of his friends and family, including wife Kristin DeCou and his son Hudson, will be holding down DeCou’s base of operations near Lone Pine.

A support crew will also be on hand to work alternating shifts, and includes massage therapist Darla Workman, videographer Luke Rafferty, photographer Susan Ely and others.

Said DeCou, “As we reach the finish line of eradicating polio and making it the second disease ever to have that status, let’s finish strong and push through these final chapters until we can say that we have crossed that line and polio is a distant memory of a long lost nemesis. We are this close and closing in on the finish line.”

Photo by Jorg Rose.

Veteran extreme athlete Rob DeCou is joining forces with Los Angeles Rotary District 5280, which includes Westchester, Playa del Rey, Marina del Rey and surrounding areas, and Rotary District Governor Cozette Vergari to raise more than $250,000 for the End Polio Now campaign. With the 2-for-1 matching grants offered from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the generosity of the Rotary community, Vergari is hopeful that the goal can be achieved. This is the last year that the Gates Foundation is offering matching grants for the End Polio Now Campaign, making this a crucial year to raise money for the cause.

On Saturday morning, August 5, DeCou, a Westchester resident and member of the Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary Club, will start his run from the Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America. At 282-feet below sea level, it’s close to where the hottest temperature on the planet was recorded: 134 degrees in 1913.

He will run across the desert floor for 135-miles over three days–a total running time of about 60 hours– before climbing to an elevation of 8,361 feet at the Whitney Portal.

“Rob is an incredible athlete with an enormous heart,” said Vergari. “It is no hyperbole to say that his run will change lives and help Rotarians around the world wipe polio from the face of the earth.”

Since 1988, worldwide polio cases have been reduced by 99.9%.

Poliomyelitis (polio) is a paralyzing and potentially fatal disease that still threatens children in some parts of the world. The polio virus invades the nervous system and can cause total paralysis in a matter of hours.

It can strike at any age, but mainly affects children under five. Polio is incurable, but completely vaccinepreventable.

In 1985, Rotary launched its PolioPlus program, the first initiative to tackle global polio eradication through the mass vaccination of children. Rotary has contributed more than $1.6 billion and countless volunteer hours to immunize more than 2.5 billion children in 122 countries. In addition, Rotary’s advocacy efforts have played a role in decisions by donor governments to contribute more than $7.2 billion to the effort.

Last year, there were wild polio cases in only three countries: Afghanistan, Nigeria and Pakistan.

But the polio cases represented by

the remaining less than one percent of the world are the most difficult to prevent, due to factors including geographical isolation, poor public infrastructure, armed conflict and cultural barriers. Until polio is eradicated, all countries remain at risk of outbreaks.

“The thought of pushing ‘beyond our limits’ has resonated with me lately,” DeCou said. “This event is extremely tough, exhausting, physically and emotionally draining and yet there is something inside me as an ultra athlete that just has to know how I will fair through this journey. Sometimes things seem so unachievable until we take the steps, plot a course and finish them.

I’ve had people at many times in my life say that events I take on are

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

Dear Readers, The results of our 2017 Best Of Reader’s poll are in, and we are excited to share the results with you in the following pages.

August’s paper is one of our favorite issues because it is all about celebrating community. With so many outstanding restaurants, businesses and organizations that help make up the Westchester, Playa del Rey, Playa Vista and Marina del Rey areas, we wanted to help shine a little light on the people who are doing great things in our neighborhoods.

We first started our Best Of List in 2011 to honor these great individuals, and now, six years later, we are proud to say we have accomplished our goal of helping recognize those who make our community a great place to live, work and visit.

Whether it’s serving up an awesome slice of pizza, providing excellent customer service or offering the best local places to shop, the following pages highlight the businesses that go the extra mile for their customers, inspiring the type of loyalty that gets our readers voting every year to make sure their favorites make our list.

Voting took place in two rounds, with readers nominating their favorites in

each category during the first round.

The top vote-getters then moved on to the final round of voting, which ended on June 21. Readers could vote via a link from SurveyMonkey, and voting was limited to one vote per IP address.

Listed are the “Best Of” honoree and the two runner-up “Favorites.” While this poll is a fun way to celebrate community, it only represents a small portion of all the great things that make up our neighborhood. If your favorites didn’t make the list, please remember to vote next year!

The HomeTown News loves supporting our small businesses and shopping local. When we support our local businesses they are able to support our neighborhood through sponsoring local sports teams, donating to school fundraisers, providing jobs and helping our community thrive.

As always, we are grateful to our readers, Best Of voters, our advertisers and this community for their support; our publication would not be possible without you!

Without further ado, we would like to present the results of our 2017 Best Of Reader’s Poll. We hope you’ll consider patronizing our Best Of List honorees and enjoy trying some new spots around town. Make sure to tell them the HTN sent you!

-The Westchester/Playa HomeTown News

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

Best Of 2017

August 2017 • Page 5

Tompkins Square

PL

•

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse

Truxton’s American Bistro

BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT

8611 Truxton Ave., Westchester 310.417.8789 or truxtonsamericanbistro.com

Cantalini’s Salerno Beach

193 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.821.0018 or salernobeach.com Cantalini’s Salerno Beach is back at the top of our list this year for Best Italian Restaurant. The intimate Playa del Rey Restaurant has earned its reputation for the best Italian fare in town with its homemade raviolis, gnocchi, fresh pasta dishes and pizza. Stop by Sunday nights for live music, while enjoying dinner with your friends and family.

BEST BURGER The Shack

185 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.823.6222 or the-shacks.com When you’re craving a big, juicy burger, head on down to Playa del Rey for the Shack Burger and a side of fries! Our reader voted favorite for five years in a row, the burger features a 1/4 pound patty and a Louisiana Sausage. If you’re starving after a day at the beach, order a double!

When you’re done, consider sticking around the neighborhood bar for drinks and camaraderie.

8343 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.670.6677 or alejosrestaurant.com

Favorites: Tompkins Square

3016 Washington Blvd., Marina del Rey 310.301.7278 or candorestaurants.com

Truxton’s American Bistro

BEST FAMILY RESTAURANT Tony P’s Dockside Grill

800 Degrees Playa Vista

Favorites: Paco’s Tacos

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BEST OF 2017

6212 Manchester Blvd., Westchester

8522 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.670.1212 or t2barandgrill.com 8611 Truxton Ave., Westchester 310.417.8789 or truxtonsamericanbistro.com

BEST STEAK HOUSE

Favorites: Hal’s Bar & Grill Playa Vista

12751 W. Millennium #135, Playa Vista

R

310.645.8692 or pacoscantina.com

4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com Bring the whole family to dine at Tony P’s for a memorable experience whether you’re looking for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The friendlyatmosphere, kid’s menu with “Foo Foo Drinks” and its great location on the Marina, make Tony P’s the place to be whether you’re celebrating a birthday, entertaining people from out of town or spending some quality family time together.

12751 Millennium Dr. #140, Playa Vista 310.751.6834 or halsplayavista.com

WESTCHESTE

424.379.1001 or 800degreespizza.com

C&O Cucina

6224 W Manchester Ave., Westchester 424.227.6486 or cahuengagroup.com/ cafe-solar/ Cafe Solar has been a much welcomed addition to the Westchester dining scene since it opened in September thanks to its eclectic menu, hip atmosphere and generous coffee and tea menu.

Browse the cafe’s dessert cases before you leave for a delicious assortment of homemade cookies, cakes and muffins.

BEST NEW RESTAURANT Cafe Solar

new favorite hangout spot.

Cafe Solar is currently open 7 days a week from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., but GM Emily Accardo, says the restaurant hopes to be open soon for dinner, with accompanying live music.

4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com

Cafe Solar

A

smoothies and more.

Whether you’re looking to meet a friend for breakfast, enjoy a casual business lunch with coworkers, or looking to get some work done over a fresh baked croissant and a Cafe Americano, Cafe Solar might be your

Favorites: Alejo’s

BEST NEW RESTAURANT

ST

like cinnamon French toast, omelettes, breakfast burritos and avocado toast, alongside a great selection of crepes, sandwiches, burgers and salads.

The cafe also has an expansive drink menu, serving up coffee, lattes, cappuccinos, cold pressed juices.

8522 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.670.1212 or t2barandgrill.com

Tony P’s Dockside Grill

A V I

DEL REY

8611 Truxton Ave., Westchester 310.417.8789 or truxtonsamericanbistro.com Since opening 11 years ago, Truxton’s American Bistro has been a community favorite thanks to its generous menu with something for everyone, friendly staff and welcoming vibe. Some of our favorite items include the Monkey Bread, the Wild Mushroom Linguine and the El Paso Burger Plate, and of course, you’ll be missing out if you don’t end your meal with the Bistro Cookie for Two.

• P L AY

INA

Truxton’s American Bistro

EY L R

AR

BEST AMERICAN RESTAURANT

DE

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Since Cafe Solar opened in Westchester last fall, locals have been flocking to the hip, casual eatery to enjoy their eclectic all-day breakfast and lunch menu earning it the “Best New Restaurant” title with our readers.

Peruse the menu for morning staples

YA

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FOOD & DRINK

categories

A

Ruth’s Chris Steak House, MDR

Villa Marina Marketplace Mall, 13455 Maxella Ave. #230, Marina del Rey 310.821.4593 or ruthschris.com Ruth’s Chris Steak House Marina del Rey takes our top spot this year with our readers for Best Steak House and Best Service. Enter the restaurant’s red doors and dig into a 40-ounce tomahawk ribeye or an 8-ounce petite filet served on a sizzling 500 degree plate.

Favorites: George Petrelli’s Steakhouse

5615 Sepulveda Blvd., Culver City 310.397.1438 or georgepetrellisteaks.com

2301 Rosecrans Ave., El Segundo 310.643.6911 or flemingssteakhouse.com

BEST BUSINESS LUNCH SPOT Tony P’s Dockside Grill

4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com

Favorites: Cafe del Rey

4451 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.6395 or cafedelreymarina.com

Truxton’s American Bistro

8611 Truxton Ave., Westchester 310.417.8789 or truxtonsamericanbistro.com

BEST PIZZA The Good Pizza

7929 Emerson Ave., Westchester 310.215.1883 or thegoodpizza.com 8115 W. Manchester Ave., Playa del Rey 310.827.0500 or thegoodpizza.com 4222 Lincoln Blvd., Marina del Rey 424.835.4243 or thegoodpizza.com Now with three locations to serve you (one in Westchester, Playa del Rey and Marina del Rey), The Good Pizza is never too far away when you’ve got a hankering for a delicious slice of cheese or pepperoni. If you’re ordering for the whole family, try an 18” pie or order from the menu, which includes salads, pastas, sandwiches and desserts.

Favorites: Beach Pizza

8601 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.827.2000 or eatbeachpizza.com

LaRocco’s Pizzeria

8806 Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.642.0029 or laroccospizzeria.com

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

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

Best Of 2017

August 2017 • Page 7

BEST RESTAURANT Tony P’s Dockside Grill

Tony P’s Dockside Grill may be the area’s most popular restaurant if how many times this local eatery makes our Best Of List is any indication!

With an extensive food and drink

menu that prides itself in delicious comfort food, hardy portions, reasonable prices and options for everyone, Tony P’s is packed on any given night. For a special treat, enjoy

lunch or dinner on the patio that overlooks the Marina.

A favorite Best Neighborhood Bar honoree, the restaurant’s “Tavern,” with eight big screen TVs and more

BEST RESTAURANT

Kreation Organic Juicery

424.228.2298 or sweetfishsushi.com

Tony P’s Dockside Grill

4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com Our readers can’t get enough of Tony P’s Dockside Grill, and this year the restaurant takes back its “Best Restaurant” title, thanks to its picture sque location on the Marina, generous portions and probably the largest drink menu around. Whether you’re enjoying one of their famous Mai Tais on the patio, watching a basketball game in the bar or dining on the fish and chip’s (my grandma’s favorite), make sure you say “hi” to restaurant owner Tony Palermo as he makes his rounds.

Favorites: Playa Provisions

119 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.683.5019 or playaprovisions.com

Truxton’s American Bistro

8611 Truxton Ave., Westchester 310.417.8789 or truxtonsamericanbistro.com

BEST JUICE BAR

Rainbow Acres Washington Blvd.

13208 W. Washington Blvd., Los Angeles 310.306.8330 or rainbowacresca.com When you’re in the mood for a juice, Rainbow Acres Washington Blvd. has you covered with their great selection of fresh or ready-to-go cold pressed juices, shakes and smoothies. If you have time, order up a freshly made Zesty veggie drink with carrot, cayenne pepper, lemon juice and wheatgrass, or if you’re feeling under the weather, order up a Carlo’s Flu Special with carrot, ginger and orange.

Favorites: G’s Juice

343 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.822.7733 or senorgs.com

Page 8 • August 2017

Kabuki Japanese Restaurant HHLA

4716 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310. 822.1220 or kreationjuice.com

BEST NEIGHBORHOOD BAR Tompkins Square Bar and Grill

8522 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.670.1212 or t2barandgrill.com In the mood for a drink? Stop by this friendly neighborhood watering hole for a drink at the bar and stay for one of their signature burgers, while enjoying a game on the TV. Visit this Westchester locale on Wednesday nights for the fun, festive team trivia nights starting at 8 p.m.

Favorites: Melody Bar & Grill

BEST DESSERTS Westchester Bakery

6216 W. 87th St., Westchester 310.215.9606 or westchesterbakery.com Westchester Bakery doesn’t disappoint when you’re in the mood for a sweet treat. Stop by this multi-generational family owned business for your custom cakes needs, and don’t leave without an order of cream puffs, cannolis, cookies, cupcakes or our favorite, the Florentine cookie.

Favorites: KC’s Crepes

8320 Lincoln Blvd. #101B, Westchester 310.348.9697 or kcscrepescafe.com

9132 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.670.1994 or melodylax.com

Susie Cakes Marina del Rey

Tony P’s Dockside Grill

4714 Lincoln Blvd., Marina del Rey 310.742.2253 or susiecakes.com

4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com

BEST HAPPY HOUR

BEST SUSHI RESTAURANT

Cinco

Kanpai Japanese Sushi

8736 S Sepulveda Blvd C., Westchester 310.670.0533 or kanpai-sushi.net If you’re looking for sushi, Kanpai will not disappoint with its long menu of sashimi and specialty rolls, including the LMU Roll with fresh water eel avocado, cucumber and kaiware and the Otis Roll with shrimp tempura, avocado and cucumber topped with spicy tuna.

The restaurant’s menu also includes over 40 premium sakes, tempura, ramen and more.

Sweet Fish Sushi Bar and Restaurant 13020 Pacific Promenade #8, Playa Vista

BEST OF 2017

6081 Center Dr., Westchester 310.641.5524 or kabukirestaurants.com

7241 West Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.910.0895 or cincola.com When it comes to happy hour, Cinco is a neighborhood favorite to catch up after a long day at the office. Happy Hour runs Monday through Saturday from 3 to 7 p.m. Menu highlights include $1 tacos, $6 burritos and $8 margaritas.

Favorites: Tompkins Square

8522 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.670.1212 or t2barandgrill.com

Tony P’s Dockside Grill

4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com

than 100 beer choices, makes it a highly sought after spot to watch a game while enjoying drinks and appetizers with your buddies.

BEST BEER SELECTION Yard House Marina del Rey

13455 Maxella Ave., Marina del Rey 310.822.7690 or yardhouse.com Beers aficionados can rejoice at the long beer list at Marina del Rey’s Yard House Restaurant.

Whether you’re in the mood for something fruity like the Lost Coast Watermelon Wheat from Eureka, or an India Pale Ale like the Smog City Hoptonic from Torrance, the menu is sure to have something that will quench your thirst.

Favorites: Three Weavers

1031 W. Manchester Blvd., Unit A-B, Inglewood 310.400.5830 or threeweavers.la

Tony P’s Dockside Grill

4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com

BEST FROZEN YOGURT/ICE CREAM SHOP Yogurtland Westchester

8752 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.649.5600 or yogurt-land.com Serve yourself up any combination of flavors at Westchester’s favorite Frozen Yogurt Shop, Yogurtland Westchester. Enjoy fruity flavors like Guava Pineapple Tart or something with chocolate like Double Cookies and Cream, or a combo of both. Don’t forget the toppings!

Favorites: Menchie’s Westchester

8815 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.642.8200 or menchies.com

Pinkberry Playa Vista

6020 S. Seabluff Dr. #4, Playa Vista 310.862.2570 or pinkberry.com

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

Photo Courtesy Ruth’s Chris MDR.

BEST STEAK HOUSE Ruth’s Chris Steak House Marina del Rey

BEST SANDWICH SHOP Del Rey Deli

8501 Pershing Dr. Ste 3, Playa del Rey 310.439.2256 or delreydeli.com Del Rey Deli has been delighting customers since 2013 with their fresh deli sandwiches like “The Don” and the “DR Muffaletta.”

Finish off your order with one of their fresh made soups, salads and goodies for a complete meal. The deli is also open for breakfast with offerings like the pretzel-egg sandwich, Del Rey Breakfast Burrito and the Bagel with house cured lox.

Favorites: Mendocino Farms

BEST PIZZA SLICE The Good Pizza

7929 Emerson Ave., Westchester 310.215.1883 or thegoodpizza.com 8115 W. Manchester Ave., Playa del Rey 310.827.0500 or thegoodpizza.com 4222 Lincoln Blvd., Marina del Rey 424.835.4243 or thegoodpizza.com

Favorites: LaRocco’s Pizzeria

8806 Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.642.0029 or laroccospizzeria.com

Vinny’s Pizza

8412 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.641.8666 or vinnyspizza.com

4724 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.822.2300 or mendocinofarms.com

Olive It

6231 W 87th St., Westchester 310.242.2092 or oliveit.com

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

Best Of 2017

August 2017 • Page 9

Ayara Thai is known for its delicious and authentic dishes that regularly have customers lining out the door for a spot at this Westchester eatery. The restaurant is currently undergoing some exciting

BEST THAI RESTAURANT Ayara Thai Cuisine

6245 West 87th Street, Westchester 310.410.8848 or ayarathaicuisine.com Currently closed for some exciting renovations, Ayara Thai is #1 with our readers. We can’t wait to see what the restaurant will look like when it reopens later this year. In the meantime, stop

by Ayara’s pop-up restaurant, Ayara Luk, and enjoy a menu that combines Ayara classics with exciting dishes that change regularly.

Favorites: Thai Dishes

6234 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.342.0046 or thaidishes-la.com

Thai Talay

8411 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.670.3055 or thethaitalay.com

BEST SEAFOOD Kanpai Sushi

8325 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.338.7223 or kanpai-sushi.net When you’re in the mood for sushi, look no further than Kanpai. The restaurant excels in beautifully plated dishes that highlight ingredients like tuna, yellow tail, calamari and shrimp.

Favorites: Killer Shrimp

4211 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.578.2293 or killershrimp.com

Tony P’s Dockside Grill

4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com

BEST BAR Cinco

7241 West Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.910.0895 or cincola.com

Favorites: Tompkins Square

8522 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester

Page 10 • August 2017

renovations and will reopen later this year. Luckily, you’ll only have to take a 2-minute walk from the restaurant’s location to satisfy your Ayara cravings at their nearby popup, Ayara Luk. At Ayara Luk you can

enjoy a curated and rotating menu that mixes the best of Ayara with new dishes inspired by the owners’ experiences as first-generation ThaiAmericans.

Stop by Ayara Luk on Saturday,

BEST RESTAURANT ATMOSPHERE

310.670.1212 or t2barandgrill.com

Tony P’s Dockside Grill

4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com

BEST BREAKFAST The Coffee Company

8751 La Tijera Blvd., Westchester 310.645.7315 or laxcoffeeco.com When it comes to breakfast, The Coffee Company is king. Stop by seven days a week at this Westchester icon for Belgium Waffles with strawberries, Hawaiian bread French Toast or its abundant menu of omelettes and skillets.

But be prepared to wait in line, especially on the weekend, before you get to dig into these delicious dishes.

Favorites: J. Nichols Kitchen

Tony P’s Dockside Grill

4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com

Favorites: Playa Provisions

119 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.683.5019 or playaprovisions.com

Salt at Marina del Rey Hotel

13534 Bali Way, Marina del Rey 424.289.8223 or pacificahotels.com/salt

BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT Paco’s Tacos

6212 Manchester Blvd., Westchester 310.645.8692 or pacoscantina.com Visit this family-friendly Westchester favorite for its generous combination plates, tacos, burritos and chimichangas, and don’t forget the margaritas!

4375 Glencoe Ave., Marina del Rey 310.823.2283 or jnicholskitchen.com

Tony P’s Dockside Grill

4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com

BEST CATERER

Favorites: Benny’s Tacos

11707 Washington Pl., Los Angeles 310.398.6326 or ruttscafe.com/catering.html Since 1976 Rutt’s Hawaiian Cafe has been serving up tropical-inspired cuisine from loco moco to macaroni salad. When you’re in need of a catering feast, this restaurant has you covered with its menu of Kalua Pork, Chicken Katsu, Lau Lau and other Hawaiian signature dishes.

Hacienda Del Rey

Rutt’s Hawaiian Cafe and Catering

Favorites: Olive It

6231 W 87th St., Westchester 310.242.2092 or oliveit.com

Rise and Shine

6511 Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.649.0906 or riseandshinecatering.com

7101 Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.670.8226 or bennystacos.com 8347 Lincoln Blvd.,Westchester 310.670.8588

BEST RESTAURANT IN A HOTEL Salt at Marina del Rey Hotel

13534 Bali Way, Marina del Rey 424.289.8223 or pacificahotels.com/salt Salt, located in the hip Marina del Rey Hotel, is delighting diners with its take on fresh California-inspired cuisine with dishes that rely heavily on seafood.

Favorites: Beachside at Jamaica Bay Inn 14160 Palawan Way, Marina del Rey

BEST OF 2017

August 5 for National Oyster Day. Chef Vanda Asapahu and her team will be shucking oysters all day and offering a full menu with seafood favorites to celebrate. For more info visit ayaraluk.com.

310.439.3033 or pacificahotels.com/jamaicabayinn/restaurant

Cast & Plow at Ritz-Carlton, MDR 4375 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.574.4333 or ritzcarlton.com

BEST LUNCH SPOT Tony P’s Dockside Grill

4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com

Favorites: The Ramen Joint

6220 W. 87th St., Westchester 424.227.9328 or theramenjoint.com

Truxton’s American Bistro

8611 Truxton Ave., Westchester 310.417.8789 or truxtonsamericanbistro.com

BEST BAKERY Westchester Bakery

6216 W. 87th St., Westchester 310.215.9606 or westchesterbakery.com

Favorites: Angel Made Bakery

4542 Centinela Ave., Los Angeles 310.915.2078

SusieCakes Marina del Rey 4714 Lincoln Blvd., Marina del Rey 310.742.2253 or susiecakes.com

BEST HEALTHY DINING OPTIONS Rainbow Acres Washington Blvd.

13208 W Washington Blvd., Los Angeles, 310.306.8330 or rainbowacresca.com

Favorites: Cafe Solar

6224 W Manchester Ave., Westchester 424.227.6486 or cahuengagroup.com/cafe-solar

Urban Plates

12746 W. Jefferson Blvd. #3140, Playa Vista 424.256.7274 or urbanplates.com

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

Photo Courtesy Ayara Thai Restaurant.

BEST THAI RESTAURANT Ayara Thai Restaurant

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

Best Of 2016

August 2017 • Page 11

Photo Courtesy Truxton’s American Bistro.

BEST DATE NIGHT RESTAURANT Playa Provisions

119 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.683.5019 or playaprovisions.com Owned by Top Chef winner Brooke Williamson and her husband, Nick Roberts, this Playa del Rey favorite houses 4 distinct restaurant concepts--an ice cream shop, Small Batch; a bar specializing in drinks featuring whiskey, Grain; a casual cafe, King Beach and a restaurant serving up seasonal seafood dishes called Dockside. When you’re looking for a romantic, fun night out for a first date or an anniversary, make sure to make a reservation at this local hot spot.

Favorites: Salt at Marina del Rey Hotel

13534 Bali Way, Marina del Rey 424.289.8223 or pacificahotels.com/salt

Cafe del Rey

4451 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.6395 or cafedelreymarina.com

BEST BRUNCH Tony P’s Dockside Grill

4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com

Favorites: The Coffee Company

8751 La Tijera Blvd., Westchester 310.645.7315 or laxcoffeeco.com

Truxton’s American Bistro

BEST AMERICAN RESTAURANT Truxton’s American Bistro

8611 Truxton Ave., Westchester 310.417.8789 or truxtonsamericanbistro.com

BEST RESTAURANT CATERER Cantalini’s Salerno Beach (tied) 193 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.821.0018 or salernobeach.com

The Good Pizza (tied)

7929 Emerson Ave., Westchester 310.215.1883 or thegoodpizza.com 8115 W. Manchester Ave., Playa del Rey 310.827.0500 or thegoodpizza.com

Favorites: Truxton’s American Bistro

8611 Truxton Ave., Westchester 310.417.8789 or truxtonsamericanbistro.com

Tony P’s Dockside Grill

4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com

BEST SERVICE Ruth’s Chris Steak House

Villa Marina Marketplace Mall, 13455 Maxella Ave. #230, Marina Del Rey 310.821.4593 or ruthschris.com

Favorites: Cantalini’s Salerno Beach

193 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.821.0018 or salernobeach.com

Tony P’s Dockside Grill

4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com

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

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

BEST HOSPITAL

GYM

8700 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles 310.423.3277 or cedars-sinai.edu Cedars-Sinai is consistently ranked as one of America’s best hospitals and is one of the largest nonprofit hospitals in America with 886 licensed beds, 2,100 physicians and 2,800 nurses. Closer to home, the Marina del Rey Hospital has recently become a Cedars-Sinai affiliate.

8015 Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.670.4316 or ymcala.org/westchester The Westchester Family YMCA has been voted this year’s Best Neighborhood Gym. More than just a place to exercise, the Y believes in youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. For the month of August, when you sign-up on Tuesdays, there’s no joining fee.

Cedars-Sinai Medical Center

Favorites: Marina del Rey Hospital

4650 Lincoln Blvd., Marina del Rey 310.823.8911 or marinahospital.com

Providence St. John’s Health Center 2121 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica 310.829.5511 or california.providence.org/ saint-johns/

categories

Westchester Family YMCA

Favorites: L.A. Fitness Westchester

8601 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.846.0070 or lafitness.com

Socal Sports & Fitness

8939 S. Sepulveda Blvd. #111, Westchester 310.497.0863 or jeffblairfitness.com

BEST BEST URGENT CARE SPECIALTY FITNESS STUDIO Playa Vista Medical Center 6020 S. Seabluff Dr., Playa Vista 310.862.0400 or pvmedcenter.com For six years in a row, Playa Vista Medical Center has taken home our Best Urgent Care title. When you’re looking to treat an ear ache, get a physical, or need an x-ray, the center’s goal is to provide you with high-quality advanced urgent care.

Favorites: Manchester Urgent Care

Crossfit Aviator

6216 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.683.4302 or crossfitaviator.com Ready to get fit? Crossfit Aviator can help you get in the best shape of your life with their high intensity, high energy exercise style. During classes everyone performs the workout of the day, which can be scaled to any fitness level, creating encouragement between members and friendly competition.

6222 W. Manchester Ave. Suite A, Westchester 310.670.0230 or urgent-care-los-angeles.com

Favorites: Playa Pilates

4560 Admiralty Way , Suite 100, Marina del Rey 310.656.1770 or uclahealth.org

Playa Vista Martial Arts

UCLA Playa Marina Urgent Care

BEST OPTOMETRIST/ OPTOMETRY OFFICE Del Rey Optometry

8511 Pershing Dr., Playa del Rey 310.577.6401 or delreyoptometry.com When it comes to your eye care needs, Del Rey Optometry is committed to providing excellent and comprehensive service. Whether you need an eye exam, a new contact lenses prescription or are looking for a stylish pair of glasses, Del Rey Optometry is ready to give each patient exceptional care.

Favorites: Dr. Harold Ashcraft at Family Eyecare Center of Optometry 8735 La Tijera Blvd., Westchester 310.670.4411 or drashcraft.com

Dr. Marc Simmons

6225 W. 87th Street, Ste. 101, Westchester 310.674.5123 or marcsimmonsod.com

BEST NEIGHBORHOOD

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6020 Seabluff Dr. #6, Playa Vista 310.862.0499 or playapilates.com 6516 Arizona Ave., Westchester 310.728.6463 or playavistamartialarts.com

BEST YOGA STUDIO LiveYoga Wellness

6700 W. 83rd St., Westchester 310.835.6700 or liveyogawellness.com LiveYoga Wellness helps empower students to take a journey of personal growth, physical recovery and healing through yoga. Whether you’re looking for mixed level flow, therapeutic or all level yoga classes, LiveYoga Wellness has a class that can meet your needs led by knowledgeable instructors.

Favorites: Yoga Bliss

6218 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester 424.442.0647 or yogabliss-studio.com

YogaWorks Playa Vista

12746 W Jefferson Blvd #3120 424.228.8899 or yogaworks.com/location/ playa-vista

BEST OF 2017

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

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BEST PERSONAL TRAINER Chloe Back at Chloe Back Personal Training

310.418.0145 or chloestraining.com Chloe is a certified personal trainer and corrective exercise specialist who combines resistance, cardio and core training for her clients. Whatever your goals--weight loss, toning or staying fit––Chloe can help you succeed.

Favorites: Jeff Blair at SoCal Sports and Fitness

8939 S. Sepulveda Blvd. #111, Westchester 310.497.0863 or jeffblairfitness.com

Paul Horn, Horn Strength & Conditioning

6204 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.922.2249 or hornstrength.com

BEST DENTIST

Westchester Pediatric Dentistry

8540 S. Sepulveda Blvd #710, Westchester 310.216.5754 or smilewestchester.com Westchester Pediatric Dentistry’s Dr. Deepa Sreenivasan and Dr. Christie Burnett specialize in preventive dentistry, quality restorations and aesthetic dentistry for children. Visit their Westchester office to make sure your smile shines.

Favorites: Dr. Kaz Tomimatsu

BEST DERMATOLOGIST Dr. Howard Sofen

8930. S Sepulveda Blvd.#114, Westchester 310.337.7171 or drsofen.com This Westchester office offers both medical and cosmetic dermatology services to their patients. Their cosmetic dermatology offerings include Botox, chemical peels, fillers and more.

Favorites: Dr. Nita Patel

4560 Admiralty Way #101, Marina del Rey 310.577.7544 or drpatellaser.com

Dr. Sherri Peace

8930 S. Sepulveda Blvd. #104, Westchester 310.645.6001 or peacemd.com

BEST DOCTOR/ DOCTOR OFFICE Westchester Pediatrics

8725 La Tijera Blvd., Westchester 310.670.1455 or westchesterpeds.com

Favorites: Playa Vista Medical Center

6020 S. Seabluff Dr. #1, Playa Vista 310.862.0400 or pvmedcenter.com

Dr. Peter Mikhail

8610 S. Sepulveda Blvd. Ste 208, Westchester 310.642.0100

8930 S. Sepulveda Blvd Ste. 211, Westchester 310.641.4074

Playa Vista Dental Care

6020 S. Seabluff Dr. Suite 5, Playa Vista 310.589.3146 or playavistadentalcare.com

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

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BEST LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHER Zsuzsi Photography

Zsuzsi Steiner is here to capture your special family moments that you’ll treasure for a lifetime. The Westchester mom and WISH Middle School teacher, specializes in family photos, portraits and events, and loves

traveling to the beach and the parks at Playa Vista to get the perfect shot during the “golden hour.” She also enjoys being able to capture personable, but candid pictures. Learn more at zsuzsiphotography.com.

BEST REAL ESTATE GROUP/TEAM

BEST AUTO SHOP

Stephanie Younger Group

310.499.2020 or stephanieyounger.com The Stephanie Younger Group is here to help you find the home of your dreams. Specializing in Westchester, Playa del Rey and the surrounding areas, the team is opening its new office in Westchester this fall.

Favorites: The Real Estate Consultants

7151 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.642.7653 or therealestateconsultants.com

Zacha Homes

6605 W 80th St., Westchester 310.215.1981 or zachahomes.com

BEST LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHER

Zsuzsi Steiner Photography 714.856.5737 or zsuzsiphotography.com Zsuzsi Photography makes its first appearance on this year’s list with the #1 spot. Westchester mom Zsuzsi Steiner is ready to capture life’s most special moments and specializes in photographing children, families, portraits and events.

Playa West Automotive

8145 Manchester Ave., Playa del Rey 310.822.9115 or playawestautomotive.com Playa West Automotive has been voted Best Auto Shop six years in a row! They pride themselves in integrity and honesty, as well as mechanical know how when it comes to your automotive repairs. The shop works on all makes and models of cars, including hybrids and classic autos.

Favorites: B&J Service Center

6551 80th St., Westchester 310.670.4272 or bandjservice.mechanicnet.com

Loyola Automotive

8314 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.670.0822 or loyolaautomotive.com

BEST HOTEL/INN Inn at Playa del Rey

435 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.574.1920 or innatplayadelrey.com Nestled on Culver Blvd. and adjacent to the Ballona Wetlands, the 22-room Inn at Playa del Rey is known for its casual elegance, superior customer service and their baked goods.

Favorites: Marie Teagardin

Favorites: Marina del Rey Hotel

Ballerini Cooley Studios

Ritz Carlton Marina del Rey

310.283.2789 or teagardin.com 8242 Sunnysea Dr., Playa del Rey 310.301.1576 or ballerinicooleystudios.com

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13534 Bali Way, Marina del Rey 310.301.1000 or marinadelreyhotel.com 4375 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310. 823.1700 or ritzcarlton.com/Marina_del_ Rey

BEST OF 2017

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

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BEST PROPERTY BEST FAMILY LAW MANAGEMENT FIRM ATTORNEY Drollinger Properties

8929 Sepulveda Blvd., Ste 130, Westchester 310.417.8048 or drollingerproperties.com Drollinger Properties is known for treating their tenants like family, earning them the top vote for Best Property Management Firm.

The company owns and manages a variety of buildings in Westchester including the Paradise Building, the Drollinger Building and Westchester Square. Known for giving back, the company’s president was named Philanthropist of the Year by the Los Angeles Business Journal in 2011.

Matthew Smurda, Law Offices of Matthew Smurda

12655 W. Jefferson Blvd.

Los Angeles , CA 90066 424.253.1177 or smurdalaw.com This law firm specializes in all aspects of family law from divorces, paternity, child custody, domestic partnerships and more. Dealing with every case with experience and compassion, the office’s mission is to uphold family roles and obligations with the upmost care and importance.

Favorites: All County Beach Cities (tie)

Favorites: David Voss, Voss, Silverman & Braybrooke LLP

E&S Ring (tie)

Cozette Vergari, Vergari & Napolitano

8929 Sepulveda Blvd. Suite 206, Westchester 310.216.4400 or allcountybeachcities.com 6601 Center Drive West, Suite #600, Westchester 310.337.5400 or esring.com

Decron Properties

6222 Wilshire Blvd., #400, Los Angeles 323.556.6600 or decronproperties.com

BEST ATTORNEY/LAW FIRM David Voss, Voss, Silverman & Braybrooke LLP

4640 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.306.0515 or vsbllp.com In addition to being an award-winning attorney specializing in representing individuals, families and corporate clients, Voss dedicates his time to giving back to the community through his work with the Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary, Boys & Girls Club and the neighborhood council.

Favorites: Matthew Swanlund, Aesthetic Legal 12777 W. Jefferson Blvd., Building D #300, LA 310.486.6958 or aestheticlegal.com

4640 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.306.0515 or vsbllp.com

5777 W. Century Blvd., Suite 1580, Westchester 310.410.4014 or laxlawyers.com

BEST PHARMACY Playa Pharmacy

8131 W. Manchester Ave., Playa del Rey 310.823.4500 or playapharmacy.com This family-run pharmacy takes our top spot again in this year’s poll and was also voted “Best Small Business.” In addition to filling prescriptions and compounding, the pharmacy’s experienced staff also offer flu shots, immunizations, medication reviews and diabetes consulting. Always offering friendly, quick and efficient service, they offer email and text message refill reminders.

Favorites: Marina del Rey Pharmacy

4558 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.5311

Westchester Pharmacy

8930 S. Sepulveda Blvd. #103, Westchester 310.670.3463 or westchesterpharmacy.com

Cozette Vergari, Vergari & Napolitano

5777 W. Century Blvd., Suite 1580, Westchester 310.410.4014 or laxlawyers.com

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Photo by Stacey Cochrane.

Best New Restaurant Cafe Solar

Best Date Night Restaurant Playa Provisions

Best Pizza The Good PIzza Best University Loyola Marymount

Best Sandwich Shop Del Rey Deli

Best Restaurant Tony P’s Dockside Grill

Best Florist Flowers by Felicia

Best Yogurt Yogurtland

Best Thing About MDR The Marina

Best Italian Restaurant Cantalini’s Best Real Estate Team Stephanie Younger Group Best Yoga Studio LiveYoga Wellness

Best Atmosphere Tony P’s Dockside Grill Page 22 • August 2017

Best Jewelry or Watch Shop Westchester Watch Works BEST OF 2017

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

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

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BEST FLORIST Flowers by Felicia

8428 Pershing Dr., Playa del Rey 310.305.1200 or flowersbyfeliciapdr.com When you need a beautiful flower arrangement, call or drop-in to this Playa del Rey shop for a consultation with Felicia St. Denis. Whether you’re looking for a bouquet to say “I love you,” a Mother’s Day arrangement, centerpieces for an event or a gift, there is no occasion to big or small. As an added bonus, the shop doubles as a coffee and gift shop.

Favorites: Playa del Rey Florist

307 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.821.0984 or playaflowers.com

Westchester Flowers

8520 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.645.6767or westchesterflowersla.com

BEST SMALL BUSINESS Playa Pharmacy

8131 W. Manchester Ave., Playa del Rey 310.823.4500 or playapharmacy.com

Favorites: Musical Beginnings

6607 W 80th St., Westchester 310.641.8518 or musicalbeginnings.org

Wagz Grooming

8728 1/4 S Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.306.1090 or wagzinc.com

BEST FINANCIAL SERVICES PROVIDER Playa Vista Insurance Services

8055 W. Manchester Ave. Suite 202, Playa del Rey 800.834.2310 or playavistains.com Rachel Sunday and her team at Playa Vista Insurance Services specialize in middle market and large group healthcare consulting. With a combined total of 25 years of experience in medical and employee benefits, Playa Vista Insurance Services is committed to helping each client receive excellent service.

Favorites: RPM Mortgage

4640 Admiralty Way, Suite 430, Marina del Rey 310.574.7700 or rpm-mtg.com/branch/la

Sarlo Income Tax

1842 Washington Way, Venice 310.823.6363

BEST JEWELRY/ WATCH STORE Westchester Watch Works

630 N. Sepulveda Blvd. #12B, El Segundo 310.640.1074 or westchesterwatchworks. com When you need a watch repaired, jewelry cleaned or are looking to purchase a new timepiece, make a trip to Westchester Watch Works for excellent service, expert knowledge and a great selection. This family-owned

BEST SMALL BUSINESS

business is also now offering free pick-up and delivery for those on the go, as well as text messages to let you know your watch is ready for pick-up.

Playa Pharmacy

Favorites: Blue Diamond Jewelers

8622 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.577.2211or bluediamondjeweler.com

Marina Bay Watch Company

4027 Lincoln Blvd., Marina del Rey 310.574.8777or marinabaywatch.com

BEST VETERINARIAN Marina Veterinary Center

8421 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.642.8080 or marinavet.com Dr. Rachel Jones and staff understand that each pet is unique, and they treat every patient with care and compassion. The clinic offers a variety of services from holistic to traditional veterinary care for dogs and cats.

Favorites: Bay Cities Veterinary Hospital-MDR 13476 Washington Blvd., Marina del Rey 888.204.2933 or baycitiesvet.com

VCA Marina Animal Hospital

2506 Lincoln Blvd., Venice 310.306.8707 or vcahospitals.com/marina

BEST INSURANCE AGENT Rachel Sunday

8055 W. Manchester Ave. Suite 202, Playa del Rey 800.834.2310 or playavistains.com

Favorites: Peter Kohly

6320 Howard B. Drollinger Way #202, Westchester 310.641.3430

Katie Leung, State Farm Insurance 8405 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.641.8990

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT Stephanie Younger, Stephanie Younger Group

310.499.2020 or stephanieyounger.com

Favorites: Jane St. John, REMAX

155 Washington Blvd., Marina del Rey 310.577.5300 or westsidebeachhomes.com

Robin Zacha, Zacha Homes 6605 W 80th St., Westchester 310.215.1981 or zachahomes.com

BEST HAIR SALON Avenue Hair

4220 Lincoln Blvd., Marina del Rey 310.822.0700 Avenue Hair takes this year’s Best Of title for the third year in a row for great color, cuts and styling.

Head to Toe

6310 W. 89th St. A, Westchester 310.338,8689

Jon Peri Salon

13175 Mindanao Way, Marina del Rey 310.821.8012 or johnperisalon.com

BEST SHOPPING CENTER Westfield Culver City

6000 Sepulveda Blvd., Culver City 310.390.5073 or westfield.com/culvercity Westfield Culver City takes home the Best Shopping Center designation for the first time this year. With a Target, Trader Joe’s, Macy’s, Nordstrom’s Rack, Best Buy and plenty of dining options, it’s hard to beat the selection offered by this local mall.

Favorites: Runway at Playa Vista

Jefferson Blvd. at Runway Road, Playa Vista runwayplayavista.com

Waterside Marina del Rey

4700 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 818.637.8921 or shopwaterside.com

BEST CAR DEALERSHIP Marina del Rey Toyota

4636 Lincoln Blvd., Marina del Rey 310.821.8979 or marinadelreytoyota.com Marina del Rey Toyota works to make buying and leasing cars easy thanks to its customer service and its knowledgeable staff.

Favorites: CarMax LAX

8611 S La Cienega Blvd., Inglewood 310. 957.6712 or carmax.com

Lexus Santa Monica

1602 11th Street, Santa Monica 424.231.0846 or lexussantamonica.com

BEST NATURAL/ HEALTH FOOD STORE

Rainbow Acres Washington Blvd.

13208 Washington Blvd., Los Angeles 310.306.8330 or rainbowacresca.com

BEST MOVIE THEATER

Favorites: Rainbow Acres

12746 W Jefferson Blvd #3190, Playa Vista 310.862.5668 or cinemark.com This theater’s stadium seating and reserve-level luxury seats make it an easy choice for our readers’ favorite movie theater.

Trader Joe’s Westchester

Cinemark Playa Vista

Favorites: Cinemark Howard Hughes 6081 Center Drive, Westchester 310.568.3394 or Cinemark.com

Arclight Beach Cities 831 S.Nash St., El Segundo 310.607.9630

8645 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.338.9238 or traderjoes.com

BEST GIFT SHOP Flowers by Felicia

8428 Pershing Dr., Playa del Rey 310.305.1200 or flowersbyfeliciapdr.com

Favorites: Paper Source Marina del Rey 4718 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.301.1952 or papersource.com

Petals ‘N’ Wax

13432 Maxella Ave., Marina del Rey 310.305.8883 or petalsnwax.com

Favorites:

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

4756 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.5373

BEST OF 2017

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BEST COMMUNITY EVENT, 4th of July Parade

Westchester is home to a lot of great events, including our “Best Community Event” honoree, the annual Fourth of July Parade!

Put on by a group of dedicated volunteers with the LAX Coastal Chamber, who love red, white and blue, the event draws thousands

of locals and tourists interested in a little slice of some hometown Americana.

Thanks to the overwhelming

BEST COMMUNITY BEST NONPROFIT BEST FARMERS’ EVENT Airport Marina Counseling Service MARKET Fourth of July Parade

laxcoastal.com This hometown event brings thousands of community members to Loyola Blvd. to celebrate our nation’s birthday every July Fourth. With 50 entries that include local schools, sports’ teams and community organizations, a good percentage of the neighborhood is either participating or watching the event, making it no surprise that it has been voted top of our list this year.

Favorites: Race for Success benefiting local schools raceforsuccess5k.wordpress.com

Visitation School’s Food Truck Friday Nights

7891 La Tijera Blvd., Westchester 310.670.1410 or airportmarina.org Airport Marina Counseling Service (AMCS) is dedicated to providing low cost mental health services to hundreds of people each week. Whether clients are dealing with mental illness, stress, trauma, hopelessness or life transitions, AMCS is here to help. In addition to individual counseling, the clinic also offers group counseling, couples therapy, psychiatric care and referrals. Thanks to its donors, the nonprofit is also able to offer an at-risk kids program at local schools and the Hannon Immediate Intervention Program, for those that are dealing with an immediate crisis.

Playa Vista Farmers’ Market

Favorites: Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary

6200 block W. 87th St., Westchester westchesterfarmersmkt.com/

playasunrise.org

Favorites: Westchester Farmers Market (Sunday)

support of the community, spectators, sponsors and participants, this Westchester tradition is here to stay.

Westchester Farmers Market (Wednesday)

7000 Manchester Blvd., (along Lincoln), Westchester westchesterfarmersmkt.com

BEST NEIGHBORHOOD GEM “Baby Vons”

6571 W. 80th St., Westchester 310.641.9423 or vons.com No other neighborhood market is talked about more fondly than “Baby Vons,” the small grocery store located at the corner of Emerson and 80th Street. Stop in for a few last minute items for tonight’s dinner and you’re bound to run into at least one of your neighbors doing the same thing.

Favorites: Ballona Wetlands Walking Path along the Bluffs

Westchester Rotary Club

8740 Emerson Ave., Westchester 310.645.6620 or visitationschool.org

12775 W. Millennium Drive farmermark.com/playavista Visit Playa Vista on Saturday’s for its robust farmers’ market, located in the Runway Shopping Center. The market’s lively atmosphere makes it a fun weekend stop for artisan food items, organic fruits and veggies, brunch items and entertainment. The market runs Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and parking is available in the Runway parking garage.

Photo by Glenn Marzano.

COMMUNITY

categories

rotary-westchester.com

THANK YOU FOR YOUR VOTES! KENTWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL FAVORITE PUBLIC SCHOOL

We are your Westchester Neighborhood School!

Join our tours at 9 a.m. on September 7, October 5, and November 2, 2017.

ART • SPORTS • SCIENCE • MUSIC PERFORMING ARTS • TECHNOLOGY Permits accepted; email info@kentwoodes.org

CHECK US OUT AT KENTWOODES.ORG Page 28 • August 2017

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BEST CHARITY/NONPROFIT EVENT RACE FOR SUCCESS

BEST CHARITY/ NONPROFIT EVENT Race for Success

raceforsuccess5k.wordpress.com The Race for Success brings together virtually every local school for a 5k, 1k run/walk on the campus of LMU every spring to raise money for education. In March, the race celebrated its 10th year and since its inception the run has raised almost a quarter of a million dollars for local participating schools.

Favorites: Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary Cultural Dinner playasunrise.org

Westchester Rotary Book Sale rotary-westchester.com

BEST PLACE TO VOLUNTEER WISH Charter

6550 W. 80th St., Westchester 310.642.9474 or wishcharter.org WISH has a lot to celebrate this year, thanks to the upcoming opening of its new high school on the campus of Westchester Enriched Sciences Magnets. The school, which will now span K-12, has a robust base of parents and community members who believe in the school’s inclusive mission to “maximize every child’s learning potential within an atmosphere of caring and belonging.” These awesome volunteers help make WISH the best school it can be and help its students and staff to thrive.

Favorites: Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary Club playasunrise.org

Westchester Rotary Club (tie) rotary-westchester.com

Westside Pacific Village (tie)

8939 Sepulveda Blvd. #326, Westchester 310.695.7030 or thewpv.org

BEST THING THAT COULD IMPROVE THE COMMUNITY Find Solutions for RVs/Campers Parking in Neighborhood

For the second year in a row, RVS and campers are on the mind of our readers. While there may have been some progress with no overnight parking signs posted on Manchester, residents are still concerned about safety, illegal dumping, trash and neighborhood blight.

Page 30 • August 2017

Favorites: Improve Local Schools Less Traffic

BEST PARK

The Parks at Playa Vista

multiple locations, Playa Vista playavista.com/active-outdoors/parksrec/ Playa Vista may be the park capital of Los Angeles with 47 acres dedicated to open spaces. If you visited one a day, it would take you almost a month to visit the community’s 29 parks! Our favorites include Bluff Creek Fields with a soccer field and tennis court; Ballona Discovery Park with its open-air cultural center; and the Campus Central Park with its iconic bandshell and ponds. There’s also plenty of spots for Fido to play. Visit the park’s website for an interactive map of the area’s parks.

Favorites: Burton Chace Park

13650 Mindanao Way, Marina del Rey 310.305.9595

Westchester Park

7000 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.670.7473

BEST LOCAL YOUTH SPORTS TEAM COACH Chris Walter Favorites: Mike Mulligan Peter Wierzba

BEST MEMBERSHIP ORGANIZATION LAX Coastal Chamber

9100 S. Sepulveda Blvd. #210, Westchester 310.645.5151 or laxcoastal.com Since 1953, the LAX Coastal Chamber has been helping create a strong local business environment through its advocacy, outreach, education programs and strategic partnerships.

With more than 500 members, the organization prides itself in its work helping enhance the vitality of the community. More than just referrals and a place to network, the chamber puts on a variety of community events including the Teacher Eddy Awards, Fourth of July Parade, Protector’s Breakfast and the School Expo.

Favorites: Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary Club playavenice.org

Westchester Rotary Club rotary-westchester.com

BEST OF 2017

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

BEST VOLUNTEER

Julie Zaller, Moms of Westchester/ Playa del Rey Facebook Group

Since its founding four years ago, the Moms of Westchester/Playa del Rey Facebook Group has turned into a community hub where local women can get advice, recommendations, network and rally together for a good cause.

Founder Julie Zaller works hard as the group’s moderator to provide a valuable community service for the group’s members.

Favorites: Gwen Vuchsas, Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary Club, LAX Coastal Chamber playasunrise.org or laxcoastal.com

Lynda Modaff, WISH Charter School wishcharter.org

BEST THING ABOUT WESTCHESTER

Small Town in a big city feel

Westchester may be part of Los Angeles, but the town has managed to maintain its small town feel despite all the changes and growth that has occurred in the last few years. With a close-knit community feel that has us waving and saying “hi” to people we know, wherever we go, Westchester is truly a special place to live and work.

Favorites: The People Fourth of July Parade laxcoastal.com

BEST THING ABOUT PLAYA DEL REY The Beach

With a name that translates to beach of the

king, it’s no surprise that the beach comes in at number one in this year’s poll. For a perfect day in Playa del Rey, make sure to visit a restaurant on Culver Blvd. and head to the beach to get a tan, play in the sand or catch the sunset.

Favorites: Small town beach community feel The Ballona Wetlands

BEST THING ABOUT PLAYA VISTA

Walkability and amenities

In Playa Vista, everything is just a “walk away,” whether you’re going to the park, the market, or enjoying a night out at one of the Runway Shopping Center’s restaurants.

Favorites: The shopping and restaurants The Parks

BEST LIVE MUSIC EVENT Playa Vista Concerts

playavista.com/events Playa Vista has a robust summer program schedule, which includes live concerts at the community’s Bandshell Park and Concert Park.

The last summer concert of the season will take place on Sunday, August 13 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. with Kenny Metcalf as Elton at the Central Park Bandshell. The Elton John tribute band will feature some of the music icon’s top hits, and each event features gourmet food trucks with items for purchase.

Favorites: Marina del Rey Summer Concert Series beaches.lacounty.gov/concerts

Westchester Arts & Music Block Party wamblockparty.org

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

BEST OF 2017

August 2017 • Page 31

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BEST UNIVERSITY/COLLEGE, LMU

Having a world-class university like LMU in your backyard comes with a lot of perks. Not only is the campus beautiful to visit, but the university has events and activities throughout the year––from art openings, wine

classics, movie nights and concerts–– that are open to the community.

Known for giving back, LMU sponsors a variety of local events, including the Race for Success and the Fourth of July Parade, and the

BEST PRIVATE SCHOOL

schoolloop.com

St. Anastasia School

8631 Stanmoor Dr., Westchester 310.645.8816 or school.st-anastasia.org For more than fifty years, St. Anastasia Catholic School has promoted life long learning for its Junior Kindergarten through eighth grade students.

Favorites: Visitation Catholic School

8740 Emerson Ave., Westchester 310.645.6620 or visitationschool.org

Westside Neighborhood School 5401 Beethoven St,, Los Angeles 310.574.8650 or wnsk8.com

BEST PUBLIC SCHOOL WISH Charter School

WISH Charter School 6550 80th St., Westchester 310.642.9474 or wishcharter.org WISH has a lot to celebrate this year as it welcomes the opening of its new high school on the campus of Westchester Enriched Sciences Magnet. Led by Executive Director, Shawna Draxton, WISH’s mission is to maximize every scholar’s learning potential within an atmosphere of caring and belonging.

Favorites: Kentwood Elementary School 8401 Emerson Ave., Westchester 310.670.8977 or kentwoodes.org

Paseo del Rey Elementary School (tie) 7751 Paseo Del Rey, Playa del Rey 310.823.2356 or paseomagnet-lausd-ca.

Page 32 • August 2017

Playa Vista Elementary School (tie) 13150 Bluff Creek Dr,, Playa Vista 424.228.1800 or playavistaschool.com

WISH Charter School

6550 80th St., Westchester 310.642.9474 or wishcharter.org

Favorites: Open Magnet Charter

BEST PRESCHOOL

BEST SUMMER CAMP

6323 W 80th St., Westchester 310.670.5758 or covla.org Covenant Preschool is located on the campus of Covenant Presbyterian Church and since 1963 has provided high-quality half-day preschool programs.

Favorites: Children of Our Savior Preschool

1 LMU Drive, Westchester 310.258.8873 or lmulions.com/camps/loyocamps.html LMU’s generous summer camp and clinic program includes basketball, cheer, tennis, aquatics and soccer, and helps campers hone their skills, teaches good sportsmanship, and most importantly, how to have fun while playing.

Westchester Lutheran Preschool

Favorites: Camp Awesome

6705 W. 77th St., Westchester 310.215.3166 or oursaviorwestchester.com/preschool

5540 W. 77th St., Westchester 310.568.0735 or opencharter.org

Westchester Secondary Charter westchestercharter.org

BEST HIGH SCHOOL

7831 Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.670.5422 or wlcs.org

BEST LIBRARY

Westchester Loyola Village Library

Loyola High School

1901 Venice Blvd., Los Angeles 213.381.5121 or loyolahs.edu Loyola High School makes our list for the first time this year. The all boys school is L.A.’s oldest high school and continues to be a sought after school for local students.

Favorites: St. Bernard High School

7114 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.348.1096 or lapl.org Stop on by this Westchester Park located library for more than just checking out books.

Upcoming events include story times, all ages knitting classes and summer movies.

13000 Venice Blvd., Venice 310.577-4200 or venicehs-lausd-ca.schoolloop.com

LMU Sports Camps

424.218.6419 or campawesome.com

Visitation Day Camps

8740 Emerson Ave., Westchester 310.645.6620 or visitationschool.org

BEST UNIVERSITY/ COLLEGE Loyola Marymount University

Favorites: Playa Vista Library

1 LMU Drive, Westchester 310.338.2700 or lmu.edu LMU’s beautiful campus, its top ranking as a university in the west and numerous community programs make it our readers’ top pick for local university in this year’s poll.

El Segundo Library

Favorites: UCLA

6400 Playa Vista Dr., Playa Vista 310.437.6680 or lapl.org

9100 Falmouth Ave., Playa del Rey 310.823.4651 or stbernardhs.org.

BEST OF 2017

million annually in direct economic activity to L.A., and you can see why our readers love their neighborhood university and voted it number one in this year’s list.

Covenant Preschool

BEST CHARTER SCHOOL

Venice High School

university’s students, many of them Westchester residents, volunteer more than 200,000 hours a year through the school’s 250 service organizations. Add in the fact that LMU generates approximately $808.4

111 W Mariposa Ave., El Segundo 310.524.2722 or library.elsegundo.org

ucla.edu

USC

usc.edu

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

Photos courtesy LMU.

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

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August 2017 • Page 33

St. Anastasia School

Photo by Glenn Marzano.

BEST PRIVATE SCHOOL

Thank you Westchester and Playa del Rey for voting AYSO Region 7

BEST YOUTH SPORTS LEAGUE!

BEST CHILDCARE PROVIDER Children of Our Savior Preschool

6705 W. 77th St., Westchester 310.215.3166 or oursaviorwestchester.com/preschool

Favorites: Carousel School

8333 Airport Blvd., Westchester 310.216.6641 or carouselschool.com

Covenant Preschool

6323 W 80th St., Westchester 310.670.5758 or covla.org

BEST FAMILY ACTIVITY Going to the beach

Grab the family and head to the beach during the last days of summer for our reader voted #1 family activity. Consider riding bikes or packing a lunch for an extra memorable weekend afternoon enjoying the surf and sand.

Page 34 • August 2017

Favorites: Playa Vista Movies & Concerts in the Park Attending the Fourth of July Parade

BEST YOUTH SPORTS LEAGUE

We have been serving the youth of Westchester and the surrounding communities for many years and are grateful for the continued support of our community.

Visit our website ayso7.org for more information.

AYSO Region 7

ayso.bluesombrero.com/region7 AYSO has been voted Best Youth Sports League for the second time this year. Founded in 1971, the league’s six philosophies that include everyone plays, positive coaching and good sportsmanship, have helped thousands of children have fun while learning a new sport.

The league is open to boys and girls in the Westchester, Playa del Rey, Playa Vista, Marina del Rey, Mar Vista, Inglewood and Ladera Heights.

Favorites: Del Rey American Little League drall.org

We will be concluding signups shortly; please register at ayso.bluesombrero.com/region7!

Register for Region 7 and more information at

ayso.bluesombrero.com/region7

Ian McCullen, ayso7rc@gmail.com • Dennis Kissick, aysodk@gmail.com

Westchester Del Rey Little League wdrll.com

BEST OF 2017

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

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

BEST OF 2017

August 2017 • Page 35

Congratulations to our 2017 Best Of and Favorite honorees!

Thank you for making our community a great place to live and work!

Thank you to our readers, voters and advertisers for making this issue possible.

NEWS Page 36 • August 2017

BEST OF 2017

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

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

August 2017 • Page 37

Secret recipes from the Inn: lemon donut edition If there’s one thing the Inn Crowd and I love, it’s Randy’s Donuts in Inglewood! We’ll all drive the extra mile to Randy’s because their donuts are AMAZING. I especially love their Maple Long John and their Chocolate Old Fashioned!

And it’s always fun to see tourists in the Randy’s parking lot, snapping selfies with the big, iconic Randy’s donut in the background. When people snap selfies, I look away, because I don’t want to be in the background, which would be photographic proof that I was up at Randy’s when I should have been in my Weight Watcher’s meeting!

The other day, I was really jonesing for a Randy’s donut, but I couldn’t leave the Inn because we were sold out, and I was the only innkeeper on duty. So, I started snooping around to see what my co-worker, Kristin had made for the guests’ breakfast. Low and behold– she’d made sugar lemon donuts!

Yes, I sampled one, maybe two… maybe three. And they were great!

Here’s the recipe in case you’d like to make them too: Sugar Lemon Donuts Ingredients: • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour • ¼ cup cornstarch • ¾ cup sugar • 2 teaspoons baking powder

Page 38 • August 2017

Photo by Kristen Guinn.

By Rebecca Hill

Try eating the donuts with a glass of lemonade for a light summer treat.

• 1 teaspoon salt • ¾ cup buttermilk • 2 eggs • 2 tablespoons melted butter • 1 tablespoon sour cream • 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 2 ½ teaspoons lemon zest

For the glaze: • ½ cup sugar • 4 teaspoons grated lemon zest • 5 tablespoons melted butter Directions: 1. Preheat over to 425 degrees.

2. Spray donut pans with oil spray.

3. Combine flour and cornstarch.

3. Then whisk in sugar, baking powder and salt until the mixture is blended well. Add in buttermilk, eggs, butter, lemon juice, vanilla and lemon zest until batter is smooth and combined. Place batter in donut pans.

4. Bake for 7 minutes or until done.

5. Allow donuts to cool for 5 minutes in the pan before placing them on a cooling rack.

6. For the glaze, combine the sugar and lemon zest. Melt the butter and place in a bowl.

8. Dip one side of each donut into the melted butter, then press it into the sugar and lemon zest mixture.

9. Enjoy your dozen donuts!

Inn-sider tip: If you don’t have butter milk, you can always substitute with ¾ cup regular milk, plus 2 ¼ teaspoons lemon juice. Just mix the regular milk and lemon juice together and that’ll work!

Recipe adapted from Samantha’s Five Heart Home website.

The Inn’s recipes have been lovingly collected over the past 20 years. Some are original recipes, others are well-known recipes that have been adapted, and some are recipes that have been handed down by our innkeeper’s mothers and grandmothers over the years.

Rebecca Hill is an innkeeper at the Inn at Playa del Rey and a published writer.

Her stories have appeared in Redbook magazine and in over a dozen Chicken Soup for the Soul anthologies.

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

Calendar Ongoing monthly events: Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary Club Join the Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary Club every Wednesday morning at 7:15 a.m. for its weekly meeting. The club meets at Whiskey Red’s, located at 13813 Fiji Way in Marina del Rey. The cost of the meeting is $25, which includes breakfast. Guests are welcome and reservations are not required.

For more info, visit playavenice.org.

Rotary Club of Westchester The Rotary Club of Westchester meets every Wednesday at 12 noon for lunch at the Crowne Plaza LAX Hotel, located at 5985 W. Century Blvd. in Westchester. The cost of lunch is $25 and validated self parking is free. Guests are most welcome!

Reservations are not required.

For more information or to reserve a seat at the luncheon, please contact Bob Smith at (310) 643-9350.

LAX Kiwanis Club The LAX Kiwanis Club is looking for new members. The club meets every Thursday at 12:30 p.m. at the Renaissance Hotel, located at 9620 Airport Blvd. in Westchester.

Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world, one child and one community at a time. The LAX Kiwanis raise money every year for such causes as providing scholarships, holiday baskets for needy families and back to school shopping sprees.

For more information about the club or to RSVP to attend one of their meetings, please email laxkiwanisclub@gmail.com.

August events: Bingo Afternoon at the Elks Join the Westchester Elks Lodge for their monthly Bingo events starting on Sunday, August 6. Doors open at 1 p.m., with early bird games starting at 1:30 p.m. The cost is $5 a pack, and

TheHTN.com regular bingo begins at 2 p.m. for $25 a pack.

Drinks and refreshments are available for purchase during the games. All games are held at The Elk’s Lodge, located at 8025 W. Manchester Ave. in Playa del Rey. Parking is free behind the Elks Lodge.

Please call (310) 821-3005 for more details.

Family Pet Adoption Event Forte Animal Rescue is inviting the community to head to Westchester Park for a family-friendly mini carnival on Sunday, August 6 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The event will feature pet adoptions, a craft fair and family activities.

The event will take place at Westchester Park, located at 7000 W. Manchester Ave. in Westchester.

For more information, please visit farescue.org.

The Kentwood Players Presents “The Gingerbread Lady” The Kentwood Players is currently performing the “The Gingerbread Lady,” through Saturday, August 19 on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m.

The dramedy tells the story of cabaret singer, Evy Meara, who is trying to adjust to a life of sobriety, when her friends throw her a birthday party and problems ensue.

“The Gingerbread Lady” is performed at the Westchester Playhouse, located at 8301 Hindry Avenue in Westchester.

Tickets are $20 and can be purchased online at kentwoodplayers. org.

Life Story Writing Class Who will tell your great-grand kids about your life growing up? Why not you? Join the life story writing class and learn techniques to make memories come alive.

Come Join your Friends at

COVENANT PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Worship Service 10:30 am Canines@Covenant 5:00 pm Sunday Covenant is on the corner of 80th and Sepulveda Blvd.

Church School for Young People during Service.

We have an Orchestra and Adult, Youth and Children’s Choirs.

Email: cpoffis@pacbell.net Childcare is provided-For more information, Call (310) 670-5750.

The life story writing group meets every Wednesday from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., starting Wednesday, September 13, in the YMCA Annex, located at 8020 Alverstone Ave. in Westchester.

The class will teach simple methods to recall your past and new ways to write your memories.

The cost to participate is $10 a year.

For more info, please call Bernie Horst at (310) 670-3796.

Beach and Marina Movie Nights Bring the whole family to Dockweiler Beach Youth Center on select Friday nights and Burton Chace Park on select Saturday nights for outdoor movies under the stars.

Pack refreshments, blankets and your low-back chairs for movies starting at 8 p.m.

At Dockweiler, the schedule for August is: • Friday, August 11– “Storks” • Friday, August 18– “Moana” • Friday, August 25– “Kubo and the Two Strings” Burton Chace Park’s Saturday movie schedule is: • Saturday, August 5– “Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory” • Saturday, August 19– “Jungle Book” (2016) The Dockweiler Beach Youth Center is located at 12505 Vista del Mar in Playa del Rey and Burton Chace Park is located at 13650 Mindanao Way in Marina del Rey. For more info, visit beaches. lacounty.gov.

Marina del Rey Summer Concert Series Burton Chace Park is home to the popular 17th Annual Marina del Rey Summer Concert Series. The lineup alternates between symphonic classics and pop concerts to create a schedule that will appeal to a variety of music lovers.

This month’s lineup includes: • Thursday, August 3– Matthew

Morrison • Saturday, August 12– Yo La Tengo (Indie) • Thursday, August 17– Giuseppe Verdi’s “Aida” (fully staged opera production) • Saturday, August 26– Arturo Sandoval (Jazz).

Attendees are encouraged to bring low-back chairs or blankets for first come, first serve seating.

For more info, visit beaches. lacounty.gov.

Playa Vista Movie & Concerts Head to Playa Vista to enjoy the last days of summer with a movie and concert in the park.

Playa Vista’s concerts run from 5 to 6:30 p.m. and this year’s lineup includes: • On Sunday, August 13 from 5 to 6:30 pm, head to the Central Park Bandshell for a tribute to Elton John with the Kenny Metcalf as Elton band.

• On Friday, August 18 the familyfriendly ”Sing” is showing at Concert Park from 8 to 10 .m.

Concert Park is located at Concert Park Drive and Runway Road; the Central Park Bandshell is located at Waterfront Drive and Artisans Way; and Sports Park is located at Playa Vista and Bluff Creek Drives.

For information on parking or Playa Vista’s shuttle service, please visit playavista.com/events.

Beach Run in Playa del Rey Sign-ups are now underway for the inaugural Jet to Jetty Beach Run on Sunday, August 27 at Dockweiler Beach.

Sign-up as a team or as an individual for the 5k, 10k walk/run, which supports Students Run LA and the Pacific Area Cadet Program.

Visit JetToJettyBeachRun.com to register and for more info. The cost to participate is $40 and includes parking, the race and a t-shirt.

The first 200 sign-ups also receive a free hat. Visit the website for more details.

YOU CAN HELP! FOOD PANTRY, LAX

Emergency Food Distribution to those in need.

Sponsored by the Westchester Clergy Association

Open Tuesday & Friday, 10am-12pm 355 Beach St., Inglewood

Bring donations of non-perishable food to Covenant Presbyterian Chuch. Volunteers and money donations also welcomed and encouraged!

For more information, please call (310) 677-5597 Ad donated by the Covenant Presbyterian Church

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

August 2017 • Page 39

Random Notes/Opinion

TheHTN.com

5 ways to get things back on track today

By Jeff Blair Opinion: Most of us get off the fitness track at some point. Between jobs and family obligations, it is easy to allow fitness to drop completely off the radar. Sometimes days turn into weeks and weeks turn into months.

Rather than beat yourself up over it, take these steps to get started again!

1. Trick yourself by “committing small.”

Rather than committing to working out 2 hours per day for the next thirty days, make a much smaller commitment. By making a smaller commitment, you minimize the mental obstacles to starting again. For example, if you commit to working out 2 hours per day, your brain may tell you: “you are neglecting your job, you are neglecting your children, you are being selfish, that is too hard, you might get hurt,” etc. If you commit to exercising for 20 minutes per day, many of these mental obstacles will be eliminated. Once you exercise 20 minutes, you may very well continue

for a longer period.

2.Don’t be a flake.

We all want to be considered reliable and consistent by our friends.

No one wants to be a flake. Use this to your benefit by committing to a friend to meet for a walk, hike or workout.

Tell them if you flake, they should call you on it. Hopefully, you have blunt friends. Use the “fear of flaking” to jump-start your fitness.

3.Take a measurement. Any measurement.

If you have gained a few pounds, you are probably avoiding any scales or tape measures. The problem with this is many people continue to gain weight until one day they look up and they have gained 10 or 20 pounds (or more). By taking any measurement, you can bring yourself back into consciousness about your fitness level. Note that some people don’t respond well to weighing themselves on a scale. If that is the case, try taking your measurements or try on a pair of clothes that used to fit.

4. Schedule a weekly day and time

to grocery shop.

Your home food environment is perhaps the biggest factor in achieving nutrition success. When you don’t have healthy choices in your home, you are more likely to order pizza or eat high calorie restaurant food. By scheduling a weekly day and time to stock up on groceries, you create a structure of success and increase your chances of succeeding. Stay on this shopping schedule until it becomes a habit. Once it becomes a habit, your nutritional choices will likely improve.

5. Collect some food data.

The best nutritional advice I could give anyone is to track your eating for 10 to 30 days.

You can use one of the many apps available or simply use a pen and paper. When you write down what you eat for 10 to 30 days, you will find you underestimate your caloric intake most days. Tracking intake will also help you see your eating patterns such as skipping meals and overeating when hungry.

Despite my recommendation,

very few people will track because it sounds torturous to most people.

While I won’t claim it is the most exciting thing I have ever done, it is very effective and not that uncomfortable. Even if you are not a numbers or tracking type of person, take my word on it and do it once.

It will be more helpful than any nutrition course you could take.

Take one or more of these five steps and you will be on your way to getting back on track. Remember, “the smallest action is more powerful than the greatest intention.”

Before you start any fitness or nutrition plan, consult your doctor.

JEFF BLAIR (M.S.) owns a personal training studio located in Westchester.

He was voted “Best Of” Personal Trainer in the Hometown News’ 2015 Readers’ Poll. Jeff has been featured in “Men’s Fitness” magazine and as a “Fitness Expert” on ABC’s “Everyday Health” TV show. Email jeffblair@ jeffblairfitness.com for fitness story ideas or comments.

AMCS has offered affordable, community-based mental health services for over 50 years. We are here to help.

310.670.1410 • info@airportmarina.org • 7891 La Tijera Blvd.

Join us for one of these Educational Therapy Groups!

Mindfulness Based Cognitive

10 Steps to Self-Esteem

Therapy for Depression & Anxiety

Change Your Thinking, Change Your Life

+ small material fee

+ small material fee

Saturdays, 12-2pm $20/session, 8 weeks

Sundays, 10:30-12pm $18/session, 10 weeks

Call Ext. 222

Call Ext. 242

Men’s Support Group

Parenting Class

Wednesdays, 7:15-8:45pm

Thursdays, 7-8:30pm

$15/session

$95/pp for 10 sessions

Call Ext. 218

Call Ext. 150

Anger Management Group Change, Accept, Let Go

Sundays, 12:30-2pm $18/session, 12 weeks + small material fee

Call Ext. 259

Groups Supervised by Robert Northcutt, LMFT#51430, and Jill Lummus, PsyD #17224

Page 40 • August 2017

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

Create better relationships by using your spark

By Fay Craton

the relationship? Do you hear and consider what significant people in your life Opinion: Summer is a time when are saying? Can people open up to you families and friends relax around barbe- with the expectation that what they say cues, campfires and beachside fire pits. will not result in water being thrown on Fire has attracted people to it since betheir own flame? fore history was recorded. The creation The song “Rise Up Oh Flame” asks to of a fire guides people toward the safety be shown “beauty, visions and joy.” By of food and connection. Camaraderie understanding and accepting who you unfolds as people congregate through are, you build strength and self-esteem. sharing meals, games and music. For From this place of self-acceptance, you many decades, the song, “Rise Up Oh do not need to point out the failures Flame,” has been sung in harmony by of another person. Good relationships scouts: “Rise up, oh flame, By the lights reinforce and celebrate each other’s glowing. Show to us beauty, visions and strengths. The experience of harmojoy.” ny in relationships is in the healthy People need connection to each other validation of behaviors and thoughts and to the special unique spark within expressed by others. There is no need everyone. Conflict, pain and loss of a to undermine another person’s attempts sense of self happen when you forget at learning to express from his or her your own spark and appreciation for own flame. This does not mean, howevthe spark within others. So how do you er, you allow another person to behave gain greater understanding of your own inappropriately around you. flame?

Joy is not self-centered. The expe• Think about what you truly value. rience of joy happens as a resonance This can be hard because life experibetween the spark inside of you and ences create biases in how we perceive the sparks within others. If you have sat the world. It may require taking breaks around a campfire singing harmonies, from the rush of your everyday life to you may have experienced the sense of bring into focus what is most important joy. Each person is singing, but it is the to you. combined experience creating the res• Reflect upon your natural skills onance. In daily life, joy has the chance or strengths. What tasks do you most of being created through you being enjoy? Do people seek you out for assis- aware of other people and their exprestance? If so, what is the common thread sions. Through your awareness, can you among the requests? As a child, what see the needs of another person? If so, play activity did you most enjoy? do you have the ability and resources • Slow down the pace of your life to a to meet those needs? At this point, you point where you can observe it. When have an opportunity to take steps toyou are rushing from one activity to the ward creating camaraderie and building next, there is no time to appreciate your the resonance of joy. A consistent patlife experiences. Take time each day to tern of connecting with another person reflect upon what you are grateful for will eventually lead to an experience that day. This can be done as a couple, a of comfort and trust, requirements for family or individually. both joy and healthy relationships.

• Who you are is deeper than comIt takes time and effort to understand pulsive behaviors. I have heard people the unique life-enhancing qualities excuse some negative behaviors as “that inside of you. For each person, the is who I am.” The behavior is not who combination of qualities is different. you are, it is just a behavior! Behavior Creating trusting camaraderie takes flowing from your “spark” is always practice. As you pursue these goals, life-enhancing. Disconnecting behavyou may find some days are easier than iors do not contribute to a positive life other days. If you have experienced experience. breaks in trust or trauma, you may need Understanding who you are and cona counselor to help you. People who are sistently acting from that understanding misusing substances may need to first will create a foundation for you to use to consider ending the misuse. I encourage (Mondays 7:30-10:30Am & Wednesdays 7:30AM-1PM) have good relationships with significant you to stay with the process. The more others in your life. Your personal life skill you develop, the less likely you are improves. Your ability to do well in your to be derailed by the words and actions job also improves when you consistentof another person. ly function from being authentic and My wish is for you to know who you using values to direct your actions and are and experience healthy relationships words. with others. You are a human being Good relationships require trust. with value in this world. You have the When considering your role in estabability to create harmony around you lishing trust, consider the following through using your own unique spark questions: Do your actions match your and honoring the sparks of others. values? Can the people around you Fay Craton, M.A. is a Licensed Marcount on you being consistent? Can you riage and Family Therapist (mfc40011), be depended upon to show calm and which is the psychology license specialinner strength when there is life chaos? izing in relationships (with ourselves or with others) and she has an office in Can they depend upon you to do what Westchester. For more info, visit comyou have freely (not under coercion) municationtriangle.com or contact her agreed to do? Do your actions and 125 N. Sepulveda blvd., El segundo | 310.535.5555 words contribute fairly to the success of at (310) 645-6762.

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News August 2017 • Page 41

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FOURTH OF JULY PARADE

July 4, 2017 | Presented by the LAX Coastal Chamber Loyola Boulevard was the place to be to celebrate Independence Day, thanks to the 18th Annual Fourth of July Parade presented by the LAX Coastal Chamber of Commerce.

A true “hometown” event, the parade featured 50 entries ranging from floats, marching bands, community groups and schools. This year’s theme was an “American Adventure,” suggested by Westchester middle school student, Emily Yeow, who had the opportunity to ride in the parade with her family.

Westchester Lutheran Church and School’s (WLCS) float, a tribute to space flight and Neil Armstrong’s and Buzz Aldrin’s trip to the moon, took home the parade’s top honors again this year with the help of WLCS parent Dan Garr’s excellent float building skills.

Visitation School won the “Spirit of the Parade” award for their homage to the “Great American Road Trip.” Their float depicted a coast to coast trip complete with replicas of the Santa Monica Pier Ferris Wheel, the St. Louis Gateway Arch and the Statue of Liberty.

Otis College of Art and Design’s entry, dedicated to diversity and inclusion (and made of almost all recycled materials) was awarded the Chairman’s Choice Award by head of the chamber’s board, Liz Hall. WISH Charter School was given the “Mayor’s Award” for their float, themed: “Cultural Diversity: An American Adventure.” The float celebrated the diversity of various L.A. neighborhoods including Little Tokyo, Chinatown and Olvera Street.

Thank you to all the sponsors, participants, volunteers and spectators that made this year’s parade possible!

If you’re interested in participating in next year’s event, trying out for the National Anthem or suggesting the parade theme, look for information in the HomeTown News starting in February.

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

Photos by Glenn Marzano.

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

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