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Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista

August

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LAWA releases Draft EIR for LAX Specific Plan Amendment Study On Friday, July 27 Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) released the Draft Environmental Impact Report (DRAFT EIR) for the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) Specific Plan Amendment Study (SPAS) and the SPAS Report. The more than 1,800 page document includes nine proposals for LAX’s North Airfield, which are meant to increase safety and security and take into account environmental and financial implications, according to LAWA. One option includes moving the northernmost runway 350 feet towards Westchester and Playa del Rey.

“The future development of LAX requires a holistic approach that will address both the needs of an aging airport infrastructure and relationships with its neighbors,” said Los Angeles World Airports Executive Director Gina Marie Lindsey. “We have two choices: either prepare now by creating a long-term plan to continue the modernization, or limp along with an airfield designed for 1960s-era aircraft and leave the planning and improvements for others to deal with in the future, after natural demand arrives and airport facilities at LAX will be both insufficient and, in some cases, near

the end of their useful life.” Local groups like ARSAC, the Alliance for a Regional Solution to Airport Congestion, have come out against any possibility of moving the runways north. “Moving Runway 24 Right closer to homes and businesses is unsafe, unnecessary, unacceptable and probably illegal under the Stipulated Settlement Agreement,” said Denny Schneider, President of ARSAC. “We will vigorously fight efforts to move the runway to the north, especially when there are better alternatives available to increase safety, security and passenger

convenience that would not require destroying homes and businesses in Westchester/Playa del Rey. Furthermore, any movement of the runway to the north will permanently alter flight patterns over Southern California, newly exposing millions of residents to aircraft noise, pollution and safety issues who have not been impacted by LAX operations in the past. If necessary, we will go back to court to protect our communities and to force LAX to reconsider other runway (continued on page 4)

National Night Out to bring community, police together The community is invited to help celebrate “National Night Out,” with the Pacific Area Police Department. Started in 1984 as an “effort to heighten awareness and strengthen participation in local anticrime efforts,” National Night Out has grown from having 2.5 million people participate in that first year, to more than 37 million people and more than 15,300 communities expected to participate in this year’s event. This year, LAPD Pacific Area Officers will be joining local residents for an evening dubbed “Take Me Out to the Ballpark.” Community members of all ages are invited to stop by the park on Tuesday, August 7 beginning at 6 p.m. for a friendly game of softball with the officers, drinks and hot dogs. This will be the third year the Pacific Area Police department’s has participated in the event, but the first year that it is taking place in Westchester. “The purpose of this event is to bring the police and folks together and promote a safe community, and part of that is having a positive experience with the police,” said Neighborhood Council Westchester/Playa President and Public Safety Advocate, Cyndi Hench. “Our community has a very

good relationship with our officers. We wish we had more resources for non-emergency calls, but I always hear good feedback when I talk to people about our officers.” Everyone interested in playing softball will have the option of playing. There will be mixed-teams of all ages and abilities. A 16” softball will be used and gloves are optional. Pacific Area Captain Jon Peters and members of the Neighborhood Council of Westchester/ Playa are expected to take part in the game. The event will take place at Westchester Park, located at 7000 W. Manchester Ave. in Westchester. Parking is encouraged close to Baseball Diamond #1 at Lincoln Boulevard La Tijera or Manchester at Georgetown Ave. This event is made possible thanks to the Pacific Community Police Advisory Board (CPAB), Pacific Boosters, the Neighborhood Councils of Westchester/ Playa, Venice, Del Rey, Mar Vista and Palms,LA City Parks and Councilman Bill Rosendahl’s Office. For more information, please visit ncwpdr.org.

At left: Members of LAPD pose at last year’s parade. PHOTO BY GLENN MARZANO.

A look inside your

HomeTown

Blue Butterﬂy continues to thrive on protected land

24 Parade Pics

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This

Month

Brings

You

August Features LAX Draft EIR Release Dodgeball league creates friends and fun Looking Back... 2012 Inaugural Best of Readers’ Poll July’s To Do You can live an Olympic moment

4 5 8 9-20 22 25

Submit Submit press releases, pictures and letters to the editor at westchesterhometown@yahoo.com. All materials must be submitted no later than 12 noon on the 22nd of each month. The HomeTown News reserves the right to edit all submissions for content and length. Contact us at: (310) 641-1016 • westchesterhometown@yahoo.com • Like us on Facebook: Westchester/Playa del Rey HomeTown News Mailing Address: 8939 S. Sepulveda Blvd. Suite 110 #745 Westchester, CA 90045 • Online: www.thehtn.com

HOMETOWN STAFF/CONTRIBUTORS Stephanie Davis, Publisher, Editor Fay Craton, Contributing Writer David “Duke” Dukesherer Sr., Looking Back Nora Lee Owens, Humor

Mishele Viera, Contributing Writer Michelle Weiss, Contributing Writer Jack Younger, Contributing Cartoonist

Advertisers’ Directory All Counties Beach Cities 14 Business & Professional 21 Ballerini Cooley Studios 05 Beach Pizza 11 California Mentor 08 Covenant Presbyterian Church 03 Custom Hotel 16 Drollinger Properties 17 El Segundo 5-Minute Car Wash 28 Food Pantry, LAX 21 Flowers by Felicia 13 Gateway to LA 12 Jane St. John 27 Joyce Rodin 07 Kevin & Kaz 26 Loyola Marymount University 6,22 LMU Extension Program 04 Melody Bar and Grill 12 Nora Lee Owens 27

Olive It 13 Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary 13 Playa West Automotive 18 Promenade at Howard Hughes 17 Neighborhood Council 20 South Bay Brokers 26 Steve Matilla 10 Tower Pizza 10 Vergari & Associates 08 Visitation School 02 Waterside Marina del Rey 11 Westchester Christian Church 08 Westchester Family YMCA 19 Westchester First Friday 07 Westchester Lutheran 04 Westchester Town Center BID 3, 19 Westside Neighborhood 15 Zacha Homes 27

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August 2012

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Community

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LAX Draft EIR released (continued) (continued from page 1) configurations which do not move aircraft closer to Westchester/Playa del Rey.” Councilman Bill Rosendahl announced his support for most of the projects proposed as part of the LAX Specific Plan Amendment Study, but opposed the controversial plan to move the LAX North Runways north into Westchester and Playa del Rey. “I support airport modernization, and most of the projects that are part of this plan, but I can’t support the proposal to expand the North Runways,” said Rosendahl. “We’ve already demonstrated that we don’t need it for safety and we don’t need it for operational efficiency.” In a press release, Rosendahl pointed to a 2010 North Runway Safety Study conducted by NASA and a panel of Academic Experts, which found that the North Runway Complex is safe, even at future fleet mix and traffic levels, and that the existing configuration would not unduly impact operational efficiency at LAX. According to Rosendahl, that study was included in the SPAS Report. Rosendahl is in favorite of projects, however, that would help improve taxiways, ground transportation and the

building of a consolidated rental car center. “A Consolidated Rental Car center is a no-brainer,” Rosendahl said. “Combined with an Automated People Mover, the project would take rental car shuttles off the road, improve traffic and provide a great convenience to the traveling public.” Three public meetings will be held in August to discuss the SPAS Project Draft EIR and SPAS Report. The meetings will be held Saturday, August 25, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at the Proud Bird Restaurant, located at 11022 Aviation Boulevard in Westchester; Tuesday, August 28, 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Los Angeles Central Library, Mark Taper Auditorium, located at 630 West 5th Street in Los Angeles and Wednesday, August 29, from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., at the Proud Bird Restaurant, located at 11022 Aviation Blvd. in Westchester. The SPAS Project Draft EIR and SPAS Report are available for public review online at www.laxspas.org, or at the following six locations: • Westchester-Loyola Village Branch Library, 7114 West Manchester Ave. in Westchester. • Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Regional Branch Library, 3900 South

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A plane ﬂies over Westchester’s business district. FILE PHOTO.

Western Ave. Los Angeles. • Culver City Library, 4975 Overland Avenue, Culver City. • Inglewood Library, 101 West Manchester Blvd., Inglewood. • El Segundo Library, 111 West Mariposa Ave., El Segundo. • Hawthorne Library, 12700 Grevillea Ave., Hawthorne. Written comments on the SPAS Draft EIR can be submitted within a 75-day window of its release, which concludes Wednesday, October 10, 2012.

Written comments can be submitted at any of the three public meetings; by e-mail to spaseircomments@lawa.org; or submitted to: Los Angeles World Airports, Facilities Planning Division, Attention: Diego Alvarez, One World Way, Los Angeles, CA 90045-5803. For more information on the Draft EIR, to download a copy of the Draft EIR or the SPAS Report, or to submit a comment electronically, please visit laxspas.org.

COURSES FOR YOUR CAREER OR JUST FOR FUN LMU Extension is here. In class and Online.

What would you like to learn today? At LMU Extension, continuing education is directly engaged with the lived experience of the community. Our goal is to provide you with opportunities to further develop your imagination, conscience and intellect, whether it is on the campus or online. Programs are taught by leading scholars and professionals, and balance traditional academic study with necessary practical training. Alcohol and Drug Counseling Choral and Ensemble Performance Digital Arts and Design Grant Writing Human Resources Management Ministry, Theology and Philosophy Nonproﬁt Fundraising Studio Arts and Languages Yoga Therapy and Teacher Training ... and much, much more. Visit us online at http://extension.lmu.edu. Contact us at 310.338.1971 or extension@lmu.edu.

Have an idea for a story? Curious about your community? Know an unsung hero? Contact us at westchesterhometown@yahoo.com August 2012

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

Westchester dodgeball league creates fun and friends By Michelle Weiss Every Tuesday night at 8 p.m. large groups of 20 to 30 somethings gather in the Westchester Recreation center as trendy music blares on a stereo, and more noticeably, sports balls go zipping by in mid-air. A recent addition to The World Dodgeball Society, founded in West Hollywood in 2003, the Westchester league is home to folks who travel from all over Los Angeles County. While some cities have yet to adopt the dodgeball trend, the society continues to grow, grounding roots in some communities while others dissipate because of lack of involvement. Westchester’s league, which is less than a year old, is the newest of the Los Angeles area leagues. Each league around L.A. has a reputation, be it being the most competitive, to the one that wears the most notable costumes, but Westchester prides itself on being the league that “just wants to have fun.” Though many recollect elementary or middle school days on the playground, where someone always gets picked last and the rules are never fair, if existent at all, The World Dodgeball Society has an entire tab on their website dedicated to the rules and regulations of the game. Highlights from this list include: players must be 18 or older, gender ratio is 3:1 (males to females),

and a $45 fee for the season. The money that is collected from the players goes towards league t-shirts, renting out gyms and a small portion is donated to various charities by the founder of the society. Additionally, each city has a league manager, Westchester’s being Joanna Munoz and South Bay local Alieh Zamany, who get a slight compensation for organizing, promoting and for a bit of fundraising. Although Zamany, who is originally from Missouri, worked at a gym and also took part in a few intramural sport tournaments in college, she hadn’t played dodgeball since elementary school. Since joining the league, however, she has met a majority of her friends, as well as her boyfriend, who is also a league manager in West LA. After searching online, she originally signed up for the Manhattan Beach league and played with different groups in the South Bay before moving onto Westchester. Though the overall demographics for dodgeball players typically falls into the mid- 20s to early 30s, Zamany says that the age bracket really varies, with some leagues having players well into their sixties. “We are not age discriminatory as long as you’re 18, and as long as you’re willing to have fun,” Zamany said. In the spirit of fun, the Westchester league does not discriminate based on skill either, as players of all level

Former Dodger named Jet to Jetty grand marshal The Drollinger Family Charitable Foundation Jet to Jetty is Saturday, August 25 at Dockweiler Beach in Playa del Rey. In addition to the 5K and 10K races, this year’s event offers 10- and 20- mile Family Bike Rides, as well as a Costume Contest. All proceeds from the race benefit Airport Marina Counseling Service. AMCS, a nonprofit, communitybased mental health clinic, is celebrating its 50th year of providing mental health services to the community and training mental health therapists. “Support from the community, especially for the Jet to Jetty, has been a key factor in helping AMCS achieve this milestone,” said Kathleen O’Leary Lefferman, Executive Director. Staff from the Westchester YMCA will conduct the pre-race warm-ups on race day. Registration and Packet Pickup begins at 6:30 a.m. The 10- and 20- mile bike rides begin at 7:30 a.m. Kids 12 and under ride free. The 5K Run, 5K Walk and Team competition begins at 8 a.m., the 10K race begins at 8:30 and, finally, the Kid’s Fun Run takes off at 9:30. Grand Marshal Jay Johnstone, member of the Los Angeles Dodger 1981 World Championship

August 2012

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Dodgeball team members at Westchester Park. PHOTO BY MICHELLE WEISS,

are welcome. From those who have never played, to those who have been playing since grade school, anyone who is interested in being active and can commit to the game is encouraged to sign up. Each city also has a sponsored location for the players to create a community for their league, Westchester’s being the Prince of Whales, a local Playa del Rey bar. After their Tuesday night games, the players travel the short distance from the Westchester recreation center to have a few drinks and socialize. However, as the age limit to join the league is

18, there’s a possibility that they may change the sponsor location, should more players that are under the legal drinking age begin to join. After moving to Los Angeles, Chicago native and freelance visual effects artist, Ryan Quinian, overheard a few coworkers discussing the game and knew he immediately would be interested. He has been playing ever since. “It’s become a staple of my life,” Quinian said. After the demise of the first league Quinian was involved with, of which he claims was “terrible” and maybe (continued on page 7)

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Runners participate in last year’s race. PHOTO BY DIANNA HOFFMAN.

Team, will start the runners off in the official pace car. There will be an opportunity drawing to win an 8 day/7 night Pleasant Hawaiian vacation for 2 at the Royal Lahaina Resort on Maui, compliments of the William H. Hannon Foundation. Food will be available for purchase at food trucks on site. There will be prizes offered for the best costume.After-race refreshments for participants will be provided, as well as an expo, music and lots of great fun. Those interested in participating can register online at www. w2promotions.com or by emailing jill@airportmarina.org. For more information, please call (310) 670-1410-x103.

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Page 6

Parking Fees at Loyola Marymount University Loyola Marymount University has charged for on-campus parking since the early 1970s. That changed in January 2000 when University Hall was purchased. As part of the Conditional Use Permit tied to the acquisition of the building, LMU agreed not to charge for parking on campus.

It is hoped because of the new parking fees, many students and employees that live less than one mile from campus will choose to walk or bike to LMU. Those who live between one and three miles from campus may also choose to bike or take a short transit ride to campus.

LMU’s Master Plan became eﬀective in April 2011, which allows the university to once again charge for parking as part of a general parking management program designed to address parking demand as well as comply with the mandate to add more parking on campus. In September 2011, LMU held its ﬁrst quarterly Neighborhood Advisory Committee meeting and announced that the university would charge for parking.

The provisions of the Master Plan also has LMU set aside $24,000 annually to pay for neighbors’ parking permits if a permit parking district is established at the request of the neighbors. In November 2011, LMU and the Neighborhood Advisory Committee members, including a representative from Councilman Bill Rosendahl’s oﬃce, met with representatives from the L.A. Department of Transportation to discuss the regulations surrounding the formation of permit parking districts. During the meeting it was learned that the LADOT instituted a moratorium on new parking permit districts in 2010.

Visitors will be charged for parking starting Aug. 27, 2012, (start of classes) from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Friday, at a rate of $2.00 per 20 minutes, up to $10.00 per day. Parking will be free on weekends. Students, faculty and staﬀ will begin paying parking fees in January 2013. The Transportation Demand Management plan details the location of residence for members of the campus population as well as the travel behavior of campus employees. Approximately 45 percent of students live on campus and another 14 percent live less than one mile away. There are 8 percent of faculty and staﬀ who live less than one mile from campus and 23 percent who live within three miles.

LMU also has agreed to raise the height of the fence along Fordham Road and 78th Street to 8 feet one year ahead of schedule, to dissuade students from parking on the street and jumping the fence. (The Master Plan requires that LMU have an 8-foot fence on Fordham and 78th Street one year after the university begins charging for parking.)

For more information:

Student and Faculty /Staﬀ Residence Location students

faculty/staff

Campus

45%

Less than 1 mile

14%

1 - 3 miles

24%

23%

3 - 10 miles

10%

31%

10 - 20 miles

17%

More than 20 miles

19%

August 2012

Councilman Rosendahl has since contacted LADOT. It was agreed that LMU may use the $24,000 budgeted for permits to help pay for a neighborhood parking survey (the ﬁrst step) to speed up the process. The survey would most likely be conducted in the ﬁrst quarter of 2013.

To view a copy of the Master Plan (Specific Plan and Development Agreement), visit http://www.lmu.edu/sites/Community_home/Master_ Plan.htm To view meeting notes from the three Neighborhood Advisory Committee meetings, visit http://www.lmu.edu/sites/Community_home/Master_ Plan/Neighborhood_Advisory_Committee.htm If you do not have access to a computer and would like meeting notes and future NAC meeting notices mailed to you, please contact: Clarence Griffin at cegriffin@lmu.edu or 310-338-7854.

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

Blue Butterfly continues to thrive on protected dunes In 1976 when the El Segundo Blue Butterfly was placed on the Endangered Species List, there were only 500 in existence. Thanks to the efforts of the City of Los Angeles and thoughtful conservationists, however, the Blue Butterfly is thriving on its protected dunes just west of LAX. Currently, Los Angeles World Airports, who purchased the 307 acres of coastal dunes where the butterfly resides, spends roughly a quarter of a million dollars on protecting the butterfly according to George Raphael, an environmental supervisor at the airport. Said Raphael, “There is a belief here that it is the right thing to do. We believe in this program.” A recent media event, led by entomologist and LAWA consultant, Richard Arnold, discussed the insect, which is no larger than a thumbnail. According to Arnold, the El Segundo Blue Butterfly numbers fluctuate from year to year depending on rainfall. Arnold is tasked with tracking the numbers from year to year, which can be a daunting. He spends three to four months taking weekly walks of the dunes during the peak of butterfly season counting its numbers. He then compares that number to the number he calculates by visiting each and

every buckwheat plant and the butterflies he encounters. In years past, the number of butterflies have ranged from 35,000 to 150,000 per year, with last year’s numbers reaching 125,000. This year, with rainfall down, numbers are also down 20 to 25 percent. “One of things we have found now after we have done this data collection for so many years, is that the annual rainfall effects the buckwheat food plant of the butterfly. Specifically not only its survival, but also the number of flowers it produces, said Arnold. “It’s the number of flowers that are really important to the butterflies because that is what it feeds on. So that in turn [creates a] real strong correlation between the annual butterfly numbers, based on the annual numbers of the flowers.” Arnold states that the butterfly is unique because both the caterpillars and butterflies eat the same plant. Caterpillars feed on the seeds of the Coastal Buckwheat, also called Sea Cliff Buckwheat, while the adult butterflies feed on its nectar. Surprisingly, according to Arnold, the low number of butterflies in 1976 was not the deciding factor on (continued on page 8)

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Which of These Costly Mistakes Will You Make When You Sell Your Westchester Home?

Westchester–A new report has just been released which reveals 7 costly mistakes that most homeowners make when selling their home, and a 9 Step System that can help you sell your home fast and for the most amount of money. This industry report shows clearly how the traditional ways of selling homes have become increasingly less and less effective in today’s market. The fact of the matter is that fully three quarters of homesellers don’t get what they want for their home and become disillusioned and–worse– ﬁnancially disadvantaged when they put their home on the market. As this report uncovers, most

homesellers make 7 deadly mistakes that cost them literally thousands of dollars. The good news is that each and every one of these mistakes is entirely preventable. In answer to this issue, industry insiders have prepared a free special report entitled, “The 9 Step System to Get Your Home Sold Fast and For Top Dollar.” To hear a brief recorded message about how to order your free copy of this report, call 1(866)295-5661 and enter ID #1000. You can call anytime, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call NOW to ﬁnd out how you can get the most money for your home.

Dodgeball (continued) (continued from page 5) “won one match the entire season,” he joined the Westchester league as it was closer to his home. “I was making a few friends at work, but it’s nice to meet people outside of work, [which is] really hard to do that,” Quinian said. Of the many reasons one would want to join a dodgeball league, both Quinian and Zamany had the same motivation: to make friends. “I moved around a lot after college and all my friends had kind of spread out, so I was looking to get involved in the area and find new friends,” Zamany stated. More than just making friends, however, the Westchester league has created somewhat of a family. Quinian recalled a few season back when a player who was supposed to go on a camping trip, needed to

change his flight and couldn’t afford the cost. The entire team pitched in money so that he was able to make his flight. That night the team won their match, making it a winwin situation for all involved and brought the team closer together. So while many people move to Los Angeles without knowing anyone, the Westchester league of the World Dodgeball Society has brought a sense of community and friendship to more than just one. “When I first moved to Los Angeles, I knew no one,” claimed Quinian, “I’ve been playing dodgeball for two and a half years and all of my friends in L.A. I met through dodgeball.” For more information or to inquire about joining the league, visit dodgeball4ever.com/balls/homewestchester.

Obituary

In Loving Memory Bruce H. Barnard 8/24/1942 - 5/19/2012

Husband, Father, Friend. Lifelong resident and graduate of Westchester High School, Bruce Served the Community of Westchester as owner & operator of Percision Automotive for many years. Bruce’s greatest loves were all things aeronautical, classic cars and his family. Lunches were often spent at In n Out with Vickie watching the airplanes land. We will remember his smile and the many ways, in which he gave to us all, you will be forever missed.

Visit us online at: www.thehtn.com Email us at: westchesterhometown@yahoo.com Like us on Facebook: Westchester/Playa del Rey Hometown News August 2012

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Looking Back... By David J. “Duke” Dukesherer

The Beach Boys in Westchester Westchester/Playa del Rey, circa 1963, was a place that many long time denizens described as a cross between an “Ozzie and Harriet” and “Leave it to Beaver” neighborhood. Souped-up cars cruised the boulevards, the beach was the place to go and locals frequented the lunch counters at Thrifty Drugs, Woolworth and Newberry’s. Well heeled white gloved mothers, with similarly clad daughters in tow, met for tea at the rooftop restaurant at the Broadway Department Store and candy bars still sold at Sav-On Drugs for 3 for a dime. Next door at See’s Candy, you were offered all the samples you could stomach and it seemed like no one really cared if you bought anything; they were just glad you came. And next

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door at the Thom McAn shoe store, they regularly sold out of Jack Purcell’s, penny-loafers and winged-tip shoes. The JCPenney sold pocket tee shirts, and all the guys wore them. The experiment of the town, primarily formed in the vision of developers such as Fritz Burns, William Hannon and Security Bank, had begun to prosper and had come a long way from its former barley and pig-farm days. Westchester was now at the epicenter of the aerospace industry, and the small local airport, once called Mine’s Field, was developing as one of the worlds’ premier international airports. The nation would soon be devastated by the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, and the ever-darkening battle clouds in Southeast Asia would inevitably claim some of our local boys in what would be called the Vietnam War. In October 1963, over at the Jesuit all

boys Loyola University, a fall tradition known as the Loyola Carnival was being prepared. Undergrads used the annual experience as a chance to bring their “girls” on campus, and the event was capped off that year with a special on–campus concert. On October 28 1963, a few days before the kick-off of the Loyola Halloween Carnival, two Beach Boys singles hit the radio airwaves: “Be

“I got a letterman’s sweater With a letter in front I got for football and track I’m proud to where it now When I cruise around The other parts of the town I got a decal in back” – Beach Boys “Be True To Your School” 1963

True to Your School,” and “In My Room.” In many ways, the Hawthornebased group exemplified the local wholesome spirit of the neighborhood, and moreover, the soon to be shattered innocence of the nation. And at what would have been a very big event in those days, The Beach Boys held two concerts on October 31 at the Westchester campus, at 7 and 10:30 p.m, capping the day-long Loyola University Carnival. In fact, the following day, November 1, 1963, the Beach Boys were the final act at a performance at The Hollywood Bowl’s YMCA Day. And although in just three short weeks the nation would experience one of its greatest tragedy’s, Westchester rocked and rolled that warm 73 degree Halloween evening to the tunes of the greatest surf band of all time. Comments: dukepdr@gmail.com

Blue Butterfly (continued) (continued from page 7) placing the butterfly on the protected species list, but it was instead placed on the list because of its limited habitat. With sand dune habitat largely gone due to development, the El Segundo Blue Butterfly is only seen on its preserve, the Chevron Refinery and the

Palos Verdes Penninsula. It has also been spotted on Vandenberg Air Force Base. Although the numbers of butterflies have remained steady since they have become protected, they will probably remain on the endangered list. Said Arnold, “Because the butterfly

is so restricted, chances are it would never be down listed cause there are only a handful of places where you could go and see it, and this is one of the larger protected places.” An El Segundo Blue Butterﬂy sits on a buckwheat plant.

Saturday Night Alive! Westchester Christian Community Church family invites you to “Saturday Night Alive” hosted by Minister Daniel E. Mackey. The evening will include praise dancing, singing, poetry, comedy, a live band, and refreshments. Please come out and join in the celebration. When: Saturday, August 11 @ 7 pm This event is designed for all Where: Westchester Christian Church, ages to attend and it is free to the 8740 La Tijera Blvd., Westchester community. No RSVPs required! More Info: (310) 645-4344 Please Join Pastor Crissina Johnson and the Congregation at: Sunday Worship Service at 10:30 a.m. • Sunday School 9 a.m. • Tuesday Prayer at 12 p.m. noon Family Fun Friday Nights at 6:30 p.m. • Youth Bible Study Thursday Nights at 7 p.m.

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August 2012

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

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Dear HomeTown News Readers, The HomeTown News is proud to present the results of its 2012 Inaugural Best Of Readers Poll! Community newspapers across the nation conduct these polls to let their readers choose some of the best their areas have to offer, and we are honored to help highlight and congratulate just some of the outstanding local businesses, places, attractions and people in our

August 2012 • 2012 BEST OF

hometown. From June 7 through June 6, we asked our readers to vote for their favorites in categories that included food/drink, places, people and attractions, via a survey link accessed through our website at thehtn.com. Votes were limited to one vote per IP address. The following pages list the “Best Of” and runner-up “Favorites” as recognized by the poll. If you don’t

see your favorites on this list, please make sure to make your voice heard in next year’s poll! While these are just a few of the outstanding businesses in our area, this serves as a reminder that our community is thriving. It also highlights the importance of shopping local and supporting your local businesses when possible! These local businesses are the ones that support the community by offering

fundraisers, donating to local nonprofits and keeping jobs and taxes local, all while proving exceptional food, services and products. Thank you to all of our readers who voted and made our Inaugural Best of Readers’ Poll possible. Congratulations to all of our reader Best Ofs and Favorites! –The Westchester/PDR HomeTown News

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

Page 10

C ongra tu l a t i o n s t o o u r Rea d er Vo ted “ B e s t O fs” and “ F av or i tes” Best Restaurant

FAVORITE: Tony P’s Dockside Grill 4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey• tonyps.com

BEST OF: Tony P’s Dockside Grill 4445 Admiralty Way, Marina Del Rey• tonyps.com FAVORITE: Cantalini’s Salerno Beach 193 Culver Blvd., Playa Del Rey • Salernobeach.com

Best Desserts BEST OF: Truxton’s American Bistro 8611 Truxton Ave., Westchester • Truxtonsamericanbistro.com Tony P’s owners Tony Palermo and Danny Ringwood.

FAVORITE: Truxton’s American Bistro 8611 Truxton Ave., Westchester • Truxtonsamericanbistro.com

Best Family Restaurant

FAVORITE: Cheesecake Factory 4142 Via Marina, Marina del Rey • thecheesecakefactory.com FAVORITE: Tony P’s Dockside Grill 4445 Admiralty Way, Marina Del Rey• tonyps.com

Best Pizza

BEST OF: Tony P’s Dockside Grill 4445 Admiralty Way, Marina Del Rey• tonyps.com

BEST OF: Beach Pizza 8601 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester • eatbeachpizza.com

FAVORITE: Dinah’s 6521 Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester • dinahsrestaurant.com FAVORITE: Truxton’s American Bistro 8611 Truxton Ave., Westchester • Truxtonsamericanbistro.com

FAVORITE: Good Pizza 7929 Emerson Avenue, Westchester • Thegoodpizza.com FAVORITE: Tower Pizza 8351 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester • towerpizza.com

Best Burger BEST OF: Tompkin’s Square Bar and Grill 8522 Lincoln Blvd, Westchester • t2barandgrill.com

BEST OF: The Coffee Co. 8751 La Tijera Blvd., Westchester • laxcoffeeco.com FAVORITE: Dinah’s 6521 Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester • dinahsrestaurant.com

Is it time for a change? Property Management Solutions Offered by: The Matilla Group

FAVORITE: Tony P’s Dockside Grill 4445 Admiralty Way, Marina Del Rey• tonyps.com

Best Date Night Restaurant

Dear Property Owner, You may have seen our real estate signs around the community– ERA Matilla Realty. Our family has been doing business in this area since 1959. One segment of our business is property management. You may have seen our signs as well– Matilla Group Property Management. We want to offer you our property management solutions...If...you are tired of the day to day management of your building(s)...If...you are tired of phone calls from tenants....If...you just want less disturbances and more free time for yourself. If this is you – please – think about us! We can professionally handle the stresses that go with ownership and management. We manage 28 properties in this local area. Our occupancy ratios are near 100%. Most of our units are rented in less than 2 weeks. Our landlords are very pleased with our performance.

BEST OF: Tony P’s Dockside Grill 4445 Admiralty Way, Marina Del Rey• tonyps.com FAVORITE: Cantalini’s Salerno Beach 193 Culver Blvd., Playa Del Rey • Salernobeach.com FAVORITE: Truxton’s American Bistro 8611 Truxton Ave., Westchester • Truxtonsamericanbistro.com

A Westchester Favorite Since 1986

Is the time right for you to make a change? Would you like more information? Then, please, go to our website’s home page at www.matillarealty.com and click on the property management tab. If you prefer to speak with me directly, please call (310) 306-9005 or (310) 748-0574. I hope we can be of service.

Dads

Sincerly, Steven Matilla Broker/Owner DRE Lic#: 00398688

August 2012 • 2012 BEST OF

za Pepperon i Pizza.

Best Breakfast

FAVORITE: In-N-Out 9149 South Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester • in-n-out.com

225 Culver Blvd. • Playa del Rey, CA 90293 • Ofﬁce (310) 305-8000 • www.MatillaRealty.com

A Beach Piz

fast free delivery bar & grill

TOWER PIZZA

310.410.0986 8351 Lincoln Blvd. pizza salads sandwiches burgers

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

Page 11

WTS_HometownNews_12_v1HR.pdf

7/25/12

12:09 PM

SHOPPING and DINING Along the Water’s Edge Plus, KIDS CLUB on Tuesdays from 11:15am-12pm. BCBGMAXAZRIA BRIGHTON ACCESSORIES CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN CHICO’S FRESH BROTHERS IRENE’S STORY LOFT M. FREDRIC MARMI

CMY

Waterside, Marina del Rey

August 2012 • 2012 BEST OF

ShopWaterside

shopwaterside.com

818.637.8921

MENDOCINO FARMS SEE’S CANDIES SUGARFISH THE COUNTER UNIVERSAL JEWELERS WHITE HOUSE | BLACK MARKET NOW OPEN LORNA JANE AND BELLAGIO NAILS & SPA

4700 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292

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

Page 12

Best Sushi

FAVORITE: Baja Cantina 311 Washington Blvd. Marina Del Rey • bajacantina.com

BEST OF: Kanpai 8325 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester • Kanpai-sushi.net

FAVORITE: Hacienda Del Rey 8347 Lincoln Blvd. Westchester • (310) 670-8588

FAVORITE: Kabuki 6081 Center Dr. #203, Westchester • kabukirestaurants.com FAVORITE: Sweetfish 13020 Pacific Promenade Ste. 8, Playa Vista • (424) 228-2298

Best Chinese

BEST OF: Tony P’s Dockside Grill 4445 Admiralty Way, Marina Del Rey• tonyps.com FAVORITE: Truxton’s American Bistro 8611 Truxton Ave., Westchester • Truxtonsamericanbistro.com

BEST OF: Szechwan Palace Restaurant 431 Culver Blvd., Playa Del Rey • (310) 827-2066

Best Bar/Neighorhood Bar

FAVORITE: Wacky Wok 8919 Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester • wacky-wok.com

BEST OF: Melody Bar and Grill 9132 Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester • Melodylax.com FAVORITE: Tompkins Bar and Grill 8522 Lincoln Blvd, Westchester • t2barandgrill.com

Best Italian BEST OF: Alejo’s 8343 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester • alejosrestaurant.com

FAVORITE: Tony P’s Dockside Grill 4445 Admiralty Way, Marina Del Rey• tonyps.com

FAVORITE: Cantalini’s Salerno Beach 193 Culver Blvd., Playa Del Rey • Salernobeach.com

Best Happy Hour

FAVORITE: Italy’s Little Kitchen 8516 Lincoln Blvd. Westchester • Italyslittlekitchen.com

BEST OF: Melody Bar and Grill 9132 Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester • Melodylax.com

Best Mexican BEST OF: Paco’s Tacos 6212 West Manchester Ave. , Westchester • Pacoscantina.com

Best Restaurant Atmosphere

FAVORITE: Tompkins Bar and Grill 8522 Lincoln Blvd, Westchester • t2barandgrill.com An assortment of Mexican dishes from Paco’s Tacos.

Melody owners Christian Warren and Bobby Hughes.

FAVORITE: Tony P’s Dockside Grill 4445 Admiralty Way, Marina Del Rey• tonyps.com

THANK YOU

to everyone who helped make the 2012 Progressive Dinner a huge success. Together, we will raise more than $11,000 for the Youth and Government Program at the Westchester Family YMCA. Thank you for supporting our community.

August 2012 • 2012 BEST OF

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

Page 13

Best Brunch

Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary Club Thanks You!

BEST OF: Shanghai Reds 13813 Fiji Way, Marina Del Rey • shanghairedsrestaurant. com FAVORITE: Tony P’s Dockside Grill 4445 Admiralty Way, Marina Del Rey • tonyps.com FAVORITE: Truxton’s American Bistro 8611 Truxton Ave., Westchester • Truxtonsamericanbistro.com

Best Seafood Restaurant BEST OF: Tony P’s Dockside Grill 4445 Admiralty Way, Marina Del Rey• tonyps.com

“Service Above Self” Programs of Playa Venice Sunrise:

FAVORITE: Killer Shrimp 4211 Admiralty Way, Marina Del Rey • Killershrimp.com

• Over $20,000 awarded to local teachers for classroom grants • Support of McBride School for Disabled Children • Holiday Family Adoption • Music, Art and Speech scholarships for high school students • Leadership training weekend for high school students • Fire Station Pancake Breakfasts • Thanksgiving on Saturday for the homeless • Santa Tour • Cultural Dinner • Sponsorship of Fourth of July Parade and Jet to Jetty • Bingofest • LACRA Bowling Fundraiser ...and more!

FAVORITE: Warehouse Restaurant 4499 Admiralty Way., Marina Del Rey • mdrwarehouse.com

Best Sandwich Shop BEST OF: Olive It 6231 West 87th St. • Oliveit.com FAVORITE: Mendocino Farms 4724 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey • mendocinofarms.com Stop by Olive It for a great selection of sandwiches and olives!

FAVORITE: Togos Westchester 6316 West 89th St. Westchester • Togos.com

Best Thai Restaurant

FAVORITE: Thai Dishes 6234 W. Manchester Ave. Westchester • thaidishesla.com

Best Coffee Shop

8428 Pershing Dr. Playa Del Rey PHONE (310) 305-1200 WEBSITE: ﬂowersbyfeliciapdr.com

BEST OF: The Coffee Co. 8751 La Tijera Blvd., Westchester • laxcoffeeco.com FAVORITE: Coffee Bean coffeebean.com

BEST OF: Playa Sunrise Rotary Club playasunrise.org

Flowers by Felicia * Custom Floral Arrangements * Gifts * Custom Gift Baskets * Weddings * Large Inventory of Fresh Flowers * European/Dish Gardens * High-Style Floral Arrangements * Funeral Designs * Candles

FAVORITE: Thai Thalay 8411 Lincoln Blvd. Westchester • Thethaitalay.com

Best Non-Profit

Thank you for Voting Us Best Non-Proﬁ t!

Specializing in:

BEST OF: Ayara Thai Cuisine 6245 West 87th St., Westchester • Ayarathaicuisine.com

Favorite: Tanner’s Coffee Shop 200 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey • (310) 574-2739

We meet Wednesdays at 7:15 AM Courtyard by Marriott 13480 Maxella Ave., Marina del Rey, CA 90292 For more info, visit: playasunrise.org

Olive It The Playa Sunrise Rotary meetings on Wednesdays at 7:15 am at the Courtyard by Marriott.

FAVORITE: Westchester Rotary Club clubrunner.ca/Portal/Home.aspx?cid=2550 FAVORITE: LAX Coastal Area Chamber of Commerce laxcoastal.com August 2012 • 2012 BEST OF

Westchester’s Neighborhood Deli

Thank You for Naming Us Best Sandwich Shop!

10% Off Your Purchase With This Ad. Expires August 28, 2012

6231 W. 87th Street, Westchester Monday to Friday 11:30am - 5:00pm | Saturday 11:30am - 4:00pm 310.242.2092 • oliveit.com Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey• Playa Vista HomeTown News

Page 14

Best Place to Pamper your Pet

FAVORITE: Inn at Playa del Rey 435 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey • innatplayadelrey.com

BEST OF: Wagz 8125 W. Manchester Ave. • Playa del Rey • wagzinc.com

FAVORITE: Westin Los Angeles Airport 5400 W. Century Blvd., Westchester • westinlosangelesairport.com

FAVORITE: Cat Practice 4716 Lincoln Blvd Marina Del Rey • Thecatpracticela.com

Property Management

FAVORITE: Very Important Pet Wagz honors the “Fouche Way ,” a 7600 S Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester dog behavior program, to help ensure Myveryimportantpet.com that all pets have a pleasant grooming experience.

Best Pet Grooming Salon BEST OF: Wagz 8125 W. Manchester Ave. • Playa del Rey • wagzinc.com

BEST OF: Drollinger Properties 8929 S. Sepulveda Blvd. Westchester • drollingerproperties.com FAVORITE: All County Beach Cities 8929 S. Sepulveda Blvd. Suite 206, Westchester • allcountybeachcities.com FAVORITE: Matilla Realty 225 Culver Blvd. Playa del Rey, matillarealty.com

FAVORITE: Seaside Grooming 318 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey • (310) 823-7798

Best Ice Cream/Yogurt Shop BEST OF: Yogolicious 8601 Lincoln Blvd. Westchester • (310) 670-9646

Favorite: Petco 8801 South Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester • petco.com

Best Shopping Center

Best Computer Repair

BEST OF: Waterside Shopping Center 4700 Admiralty Way • Marina del Rey • shopwaterside.com

BEST OF: Nerd Alert (424) 234-NERD (6373) • nerdalert.com FAVORITE: High-Tech Westchester 8726 S Sepulveda Blvd.• Ste A, Westchester • Hi-techsystems.com

FAVORITE: Promenade at Howard Hughes Center 6081 Center Drive Los Angeles • hhpromenade.com FAVORITE: Westchester Triangle 87th Street in Westchester

Best Hotel BEST OF: Custom Hotel 8639 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester • customhotel.com

Best Weekend Hangout BEST OF: The Beach

Setting the Standard in Property Management

for voting us Favorite Property Management Company. We are honored by your continued support! Let Us Rent Your Home Our expertise can eliminate the hassles of property management. Let us take care of renting your home, from marketing and tenant screening to lease negotiation and rent collection.

We’re Property Management Experts.

Beach Cities Property Management

8929 S. Sepulveda Blvd. Suite 206, Los Angeles, CA 90045 Phone 310-216-4400 fax 310-216-4500 www.allcountybeachcities.com • contact@allcountybeachcities.com DRE# 01882903, Each Location Independently Owned and Operated

August 2012 • 2012 BEST OF

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

Page 15

Best Nature Spot

ca.schoolloop.com

BEST OF: Ballona Wetlands FAVORITE: Burton Chace Park FAVORITE: Playa Vista

Best Charter School BEST OF: WISH Charter School 8820 Sepulveda Eastway, Westchester • wishcharter.org

Best Religious Private School

FAVORITE: Open Magnet Charter School 5540 West 77th St., Westchester • Opencharter.org

BEST OF: Visitation Catholic School 8740 S. Emerson Ave. Westchester • visitationschool.org

Best Place to Take your Kids

FAVORITE: Saint Anastasia Catholic School 8631 S. Stanmoor Dr., Westchester • school.st-anastasia.org

BEST OF: The Beach FAVORITE: Playa del Rey Lagoon FAVORITE: Playa Vista Parks

FAVORITE: Westchester Lutheran School 7831 S. Sepulveda Blvd. Westchester • wlcs.org

Best Place for a Kid’s Birthday Party

Best Private School

BEST OF: PowerSurge 6081 Center Dr., Westchester • gopowersurge.com

BEST OF: Westside Neighborhood School 5401 Beethoven St. Los Angeles • wnsk8.com

FAVORITE: Putting Edge 6081 Center Dr., Westchester• Puttingedge.com

FAVORITE: Saint Anastasia Catholic School 8631 S. Stanmoor Dr., Westchester • school.st-anastasia.org

FAVORITE: Westchester Park FAVORITE: Visitation Catholic School 8740 S. Emerson Ave. Westchester • visitationschool.org

Best Jeweler BEST OF: Westchester Watch Works 6207 West 87th St., Westchester • westchesterwatchworks.com

Best Public School BEST OF: Kentwood Elementary School 8401 Emerson Ave., Westchester • kentwoodes.org

FAVORITE: Swiss Jewelers 4371 Glencoe Ave # B3 Marina del Rey • swissjewelersusa.com

FAVORITE: Paseo del Rey Natural Science Magnet 7751 Paseo del Rey, Playa del Rey • Paseodelreymagnet.com FAVORITE: Westchester Enriched Sciences Magnet 7400 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester • westchesterhs-lausd-

FAVORITE: Universal Jewelers 4718 1/4 Admiralty Way Marina Del Rey • universaljewelersmfg. com

Thanks to Hometown News readers.

“WNS: Best Private School!” Visit and see what makes Westside Neighborhood School the top choice of families looking for excellence.

• • • •

State-of-the-art campus supporting enhanced performing arts, technology and sports programs Project-based and social-emotional learning with a 1:12 teacher/student ratio Financial assistance and endowment fund to support commitment to diversity Location convenient to the Westside, Mid-cities, South Bay and surrounding communities

Upcoming Admissions Presentations & Tours Thurs., Oct. 4

Tues., Oct. 16

Tues., Nov. 6

9:30 am - 12:00 pm

MIDDLE SCHOOL ONLY

Thurs., Nov. 15

6:30 pm - 8:30 pm STUDENTS ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND

Reservations required. Please RSVP to the admissions ofﬁce at 310.574.8650 or admissions@wnsk8.com. (Parents only, please.)

DK-8 Independent Day School 5401 Beethoven St., Los Angeles, CA 90066

310.574.8650

www.wnsk8.com

Member of NAIS

CAIS and WASC Accredited

Academic Excellence • Character • Diversity • Community August 2012 • 2012 BEST OF

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

Page 16

Best University

Best Retailer

BEST OF: Loyola Marymount University FAVORITE: Otis College of Art and Design FAVORITE: UCLA

BEST OF: Westchester Watch Works 6207 West 87th St., Westchester • westchesterwatchworks.com FAVORITE: Rainbow Acres 13208 W. Washington Blvd. Los Angeles • rainbowacresca.com

Best Hospital BEST OF: Marina del Rey Hospital 4650 Lincoln Blvd., Marina del Rey • marinahospital.com

FAVORITE: TJ Maxx tjmaxx.com

FAVORITE: Little Company Of Mary 4101 Torrance Blvd., Torrance • www.lcmweb.org

Westchester Watch Works is a family owned and operated business.

Best Dentist BEST OF: Glenn Sperbeck 6206 West 87th St., Westchester • dds4smiles.com

FAVORITE: Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center 757 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles • www.uclahealth.org/

FAVORITE: Dr. Lance Sherman 8501 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester • lanceshermandds.com

Best Urgent Care BEST OF: Playa Vista Medical Center 6020 Seabluff Dr., Playa Vista • pvmedcenter.com

FAVORITE: Dr. Courtney Yoshikawa 7740 West Manchester Ave. #108, Playa del Rey • (310) 822-4987

FAVORITE: Marina del Rey Hospital 4650 Lincoln Blvd., Marina del Rey • marinahospital.com

Best Pediatrician

FAVORITE: Reliant Medical Center 601 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester • reliantimmediatecare.com

Best Dermatologist BEST OF: Howard Sofen, MD 8930 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Ste. 114, Westchester • drsofen.com

BEST OF: Westchester Pediatrics 8725 La Tijera Blvd., Westchester • westchesterpeds.com FAVORITE: Dr. Daniel Lau, Westchester Pediatrics FAVORITE: Dr. Amy Shapiro, Westchester Pediatrics

Best Park BEST OF: Westchester Park FAVORITE: Burton Chace Park FAVORITE: Playa Vista Parks

Thank you to Our N e i g h b o rs F o r Vo t i n g Us Best Of !

We A p p re c i a t e Yo u r S u p p o r t ! F ro m t h e Custom Hotel

August 2012 • 2012 BEST OF

customhotel.com

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

Page 17

Best Florist BEST OF: Flowers by Felicia 8428 Pershing Dr., Playa del Rey • flowersbyfeliciapdr.com FAVORITE: LAX International Florists 8635 Truxton Ave., Westchester • lainternationalflorist.com FAVORITE: Playa del Rey Florist 307 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey • playaflowers.com

Best Attorney BEST OF: David Voss 4640 Admiralty Way, Suite 800, Marina del Rey • vsbllp.com FAVORITE: Arias, Ozzello and Gignac, LLP 701 Center Drive West • aogllp.com FAVORITE: Cozette Vergari and Associates 5777 W. Century Blvd. Suite 1580, Westchester • laxlawyers.com

Best Movie Theater BEST OF: Rave Cinema 6081 Center Dr., Westchester • ravecinemas.com

Stay up-to-date on the community’s news and events by liking us on Facebook!

FAVORITE: AMC Marina del Rey amctheaters.com FAVORITE: United Artists Marina del Rey regmovies.com

Best Park BEST OF: Westchester Park FAVORITE: Burton Chace Park FAVORITE: Playa Vista Parks

��

Visit Facebook.com and search “Westchester/Playa del Rey Hometown News”

��

Your Neighborhood. Your News. In Your Hand, Online and on Facebook. Drollinger P R O P E R T I E S

310.417.8048 www.drollingerproperties.com

8929 S. Sepulveda Boulevard, #130 Westchester, CA 90045

w w w. d ro l l i n g e r p ro p e r t i e s. c o m August 2012 • 2012 BEST OF

HomeTown News (310) 641-1016 westchesterhometown@yahoo.com thehtn.com Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey• Playa Vista HomeTown News

Page 18

Best Bike Shop

Best Place to Take an Out-Of-Towner

BEST OF: Summit Ski and Cycle 8419 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester • summitskiandcycle.com

BEST OF: Marina del Rey FAVORITE: Playa del Rey FAVORITE: Popular Local Landmarks-Encounter Restaurant, Randy’s Donuts

FAVORITE: MDR Bike Co. 4051 Lincoln Blvd., Marina Del Rey • mdrbike.co

Best Personal Trainer

Best Painter

BEST OF: Jeff Blair, Jeff Blair Fitness jeffblairfitness.com • 310-497-0863

BEST OF: Greg Oakland (310) 641-1515 • gregoaklandpainting.com

FAVORITE: Heidi Carignan heidi@220fit.com • (310) 990-0430

Best Community Event BEST OF: Fourth of July Parade FAVORITE: Visitation’s Food Truck Friday Nights FAVORITE: Westchester First Fridays

BEST OF: Ben Maltz Gallery at Otis 9045 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester • otis.edu/benmaltzgallery Great Pyrenees dogs wow at this year’s parade.

Best Place to Watch Planes

Jeff Blair of Jeff Blair Fitness.

Art Gallery

BEST OF: Park by In-N-Out FAVORITE: Playa del Rey FAVORITE: The Proud Bird

BEST OF: Playa West Automotive 8145 Manchester Ave., Playa del Rey • playawestautomotive.com

FAVORITE: Loyola Automotive 8314 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester • loyolaautomotive.com

BEST OF: Rocket Fizz and Soda Pop 8340 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester • rocketfizz.com FAVORITE: Soundsations 8701 La Tijera Blvd., Westchester • soundsationsrecords.com

Best Auto Repair Shop

FAVORITE: Frio Automotive 6575 West Manchester Ave., Westchester • (310) 568-8930

Best Hidden Gem

Best Place to Volunteer BEST OF: Local Schools FAVORITE: The Rotary Club FAVORITE: Ballona Wetlands

Rocket Fizz co-owners pose in front of hundreds of candies and sweets at the Lincoln Blvd. shop.

Best View BEST OF: LMU Bluffs

Complimentary local pick-up and/or drop-off transportation services provided to our Customers. Complimentary local vehicle pick-up and/or delivery service provided for our Customers.

PLAYA WEST AUTOMOTIVE YOUR FAMILY-OWNED, FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD AUTO REPAIR SHOP • SERVICE AND REPAIR AT A PRICE THAT’S FAIR...SINCE 1962

Member of the ASCCA

A Tradition of Supporting Community Organizations and Events!

At Playa West Automotive, There Are “No Problems - Only Solutions” Building loyal client relationships on a foundation of honesty, integrity, reliability and customer satisfaction is the hallmark of our success. Complete Auto Repair and Service.

Dedicated Smog Technician.

Servicing all vehicles, foreign and domestic, including vintage/classic autos.

Our highly qualiﬁed, experienced technicians are all ASE Board certiﬁed and proven professionals.

No job too large or too small - from engines, to electronics, to tires or to light bulbs and wipers

Factory Approved / State of the Art Diagnostic Equipment

Mon. - Sat. 7am - 6pm All Work Guaranteed ANDY MAROZIK Owner - Operator

PLEASE CALL OR VISIT TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT AND/OR ESTIMATE 8145 W. Manchester Ave., Playa del Rey 90293 -- 310-822-9115 -- playawest13@hotmail.com

August 2012 • 2012 BEST OF

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

Page 19

Best Neighborhood Gym BEST OF: Westchester Family YMCA 8015 South Sepulveda Blvd. • ymcala.org/westchester FAVORITE: Spectrum Howard Hughes 6833 Park Terrace, Westchester • spectrumclubs.com/howardhughes

Best Yoga Center BEST OF: Yoga Vista 13020 Pacific Promenade #3, Playa Vista • yogavistastudio.com FAVORITE: Body and Brain Yoga 8801 Sepulveda Blvd., Suite F, Westchester • bodynbrain.com/ Westchester-CA Favorite: LiveYoga Wellness 6700 W. 83rd St., Westchester • liveyogawellness.com

Best Performance Space BEST OF: Westchester Playhouse 8301 Hindry Ave., Westchester FAVORITE: Playa Vista Bandshell

Best Dry Cleaners BEST OF: Spring Cleaners (Tie) 8611 S Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester • (310) 670-8867 BEST OF: Triangle Cleaners (Tie) 6242 West 87th St., Westchester • (310) 670-9351 FAVORITE: Rowena’s Cleaners 8430 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester • (310) 670-0156

August 2012 • 2012 BEST OF

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

Page 20

NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL OF WESTCHESTER / PLAYA Neighborhood Council Election Set for Oct. 28 The City of Los Angeles has selected Sunday, October 28, 2012, for the next Neighborhood Council of Westchester/ Playa election. Polls will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Westchester Municipal Building Community Room. About half of the board seats will be on the ballot, and each �� your opportunity to get involved and help your community. Neighborhood Councils were created in the City of Los Angeles Charter as a way to encourage more involvement in City government and to make Los Angeles City government more responsive to local needs. The Neighborhood Council of �� give a larger voice to the residents, businesses and property owners in Westchester, Playa del Rey and Playa Vista.

You’re Invited to Join Us on Tuesday August 7, 2012 at 6pm for the 3rd Annual Pacific Community Softball game and BBQ

“Police and Community Together”

��

The NCWP is comprised of 31 board members who are �� meetings and actively participate on at least one of the NCWP committees. The board seats that are open for the 2012 election are: �� seats 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 ��

��

www.ncwpdr.org August 2012 • 2012 BEST OF

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

Page 21

Business and Professional Painting

Carpet Services

Fitness

Ready to Get in Shape for Summer?

Train with Jeff Blair Fitness and you get: • A Personalized • Motivated trainers Workout Program • Semi-private trainingdesigned to burn fat 3-4 people per group as fast as possible • Very reasonable rates • Free consultation and at our convenient assessment Westchester location Contact Jeff Blair at jeffblair@jeffblairﬁtness.com or 310-497-0863 to start your 2 week trial for only $79. Located at 8632 S. Sepulveda Blvd. #101 in Westchester

www.darioscarpetsla.com E-mail: darioscarpets@aol.com

Chiropractic

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GREAT REFERENCES

MOVING & STORAGE SYSTEM

Sunflower

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Moving & Storage

• Family owned and operated since 1979 • Local and long distance moves • Residential and commercial moves

Custom Hardscape Walkways and Patios Lighting and Fencing

310.670.3444

(310) 836-0792

www.sunﬂ 4712 Admiralty Wayowerlandscape.net Marina del Rey, CA 90292

armormovingandstorage.com

Chester West

Locksmith

• Packing services available • Fully licensed and insured, we carry full workers comp. • Member of the BBB, YMCA and Culver City Exchange Club

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Comforters Recognized for 42 Years of Service During August, the Comforters of Westchester Lutheran Church will be recognized for 42 years of service. Every Wednesday morning throughout the year, 15 to 20 ladies gather in the Fellowship Hall of the church from 9 a.m. to noon to sew quilts for the needy. It all started back in 1970 when Ida Berg and Elizabeth Mayer organized work groups to aid in dewing quilts. Since that time, the ladies have sewn thousands of quilts and baby blankets that have been sent around the world, as well as distributed locally. These quilts have been distributed to Lutheran World Relief, women in crisis centers, babies at Harvest Homes, patients receiving Chemotherapy at Centinela Hospital, Friends House at Ascension Lutheran, Los Angeles and

to the homeless and other places where needed. Many women in the group have dedicated years to the cause. Florence Ebright has been with the group since 1970; Marion Scharf since 1989; Jackie Sharrar and Dolores Reed Waltz since 1993; and Mary Cairns since 1994. Many of the other ladies have been with the group since 2002 and following. This has been a labor of love for the group who has used their sewing skills to provide comfort to those in need. For the women, it provides outreach and a way to spread their faith to others. For more information on this program, please contact the church office at (310) 670-5422. Westchester Lutheran Church is located at 7831 S. Sepulveda Blvd. in Westchester.

Visit us at www.thehtn.com August 2012

FOOD PANTRY, LAX Emergency Food Distribution to those in need Sponsored by Westchester Clergy Association

Open Tuesdayand andFriday Friday •• 11:00 a.m.toto12 12:30 Open Tuesday 10 a.m. p.m.p.m. (noon) 355 Beach Street, Inglewood

If you have Food to donate, take to Covenant Presbyterian Church or bring to location from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Volunteers and money donations also welcomed and encouraged. For further information, please call (310) 677-5597

Ad donated by Covenant Presbyterian Church

Curious about your community? Have news to share? We want to hear from you! Contact us! westchesterhometown@yahoo.com www.thehtn.com

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

Page 22

To Do Rotary Club of Westchester The Rotary Club of Westchester meets every Wednesday at 12 noon for lunch at the Crowne Plaza LAX Hotel, 5985 W. Century Blvd. in Westchester. The cost of lunch is $20 and validated self parking is free. Guests are most welcome! Reservations are not required. For information regarding the upcoming luncheon programs, visit www.rotary-westchester.org/ or become our friend (Westchester Rotary) on Facebook. Playa Vista Farmers’ Market Come out to the Playa Vista Farmers’ Market, located in the heart of Playa Vista. Open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and showcasing the freshest fruits, vegetables and flowers direct from the best local farmers’ California has to offer as well as other traditional market fare. This is a Certified Farmers’ Market sponsored by Sprouts of Promise Foundation, a 501(c) 3 nonprofit focused on the education of healthy eating habits. Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary Club Join the Rotary club of Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary Club at its Wednesday morning meeting at 7:15 a.m. at the Courtyard Marriott Hotel, located at 13480 Maxella Avenue in Marina del Rey. The cost of the meeting is $25, which includes breakfast and a guest speaker. Guests are welcome and reservations are not required. For more information, www. playasunrise.org or call (310) 4293808. Elks Lodge Hosts Chili Cook-Off The Westchester Elks Lodge will be holding their annual Chili Cook-Off on Saturday, August 11. Sample and vote on your favorite chili! Special guests include Kofi Baker’s Cream Experience and his tribute band. Kofi is the son of legendary Ginger Baker from the original Cream. Doors open at noon and the cost is $10 for both the tastings and the barbecue. The event is open to the public and is kid friendly. The Elks Lodge is located at 8025 W. Manchester Avenue in Playa del Rey. For more info, please call (310) 8213005. Speakers by the Sea Toastmaster’s Group Improve your public speaking skills every Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. by joining the Speakers by the Sea Toastmaster’s Group. Visitors are always welcome - just drop in. The meeting takes place at 12000 Vista del Mar in Conf. Room 230A in Playa del Rey (One traffic light South of Imperial Highway on Vista del Mar) For more info, please call (310) 5592834. Kentwood Players Present “Doubt” Kentwood Players presents “DOUBT, A Parable” by John Patrick Shanley through August 18, 2012 on Fridays

August 2012

• your community newspaper • your community newspaper • your community newspaper • and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. at the Westchester Playhouse, located at 8301 Hindry Avenue in Westchester. The production is directed by Gail Bernardi and produced by Calia Mintzer-Wolf and Linda Reinhardt by special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service, Inc., New York. “DOUBT, A Parable” won the 2005 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and Tony Award for Best Play. It tells the story of a nun in a Bronx Catholic School in 1964 who suspects a popular priest of inappropriate behavior with a student. Armed with nothing more than a resolute belief in her suspicions and a few circumstantial details, Sister Aloysius instigates a campaign to remove Father Flynn, the beloved and progressive parish priest, from St. Nicholas School. She enlists the help of Sister James, a young nun in the order, and the child’s tormented mother, Mrs. Muller. To purchase tickets by phone, please call (310) 645-5156 during box office hours, Tuesday through Saturday from 4 to 7 p.m. or visit kentwoodplayers. org. Volunteer Day at Emerson Community Garden Please join us the Emerson Avenue Community Garden Club on 80th Place in Westchester on the grounds of Orville Wright Middle School for their next volunteer day on August 4, from 9 a.m. to noon. They invite you to join us in the development of the garden where tasks will include tending to the mandala area and the spiral walkway, continuing to build the circular seating area, painting projects and other fun garden activities. Lots to do for all ages and skill levels! Morning treats and coffee will be provided beginning at 8:30. Potluck lunch to follow. Open to the general community. EACGC is a group of neighbors working to build a public park like gathering space on an acre of land owned by the LAUSD. We are an all volunteer organization. For more information or make a donation, please contact the garden club at eacgc@yahoo.com or call (310) 337-0827 Greyhound Show and Tell Sunday, August 5 and every first Sunday of the month, greyhounds and volunteers from Fastfriends.org (nonprofit rescue group), will have a Greyhound Show and Tell from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Petco, located at 8801 S. Sepulveda in Westchester. To see available adoptable dogs, and learn how to adopt a greyhound, go to Fastfriends.org. For more information, please contact Jim or Sharon Higgins at (310) 645-8143. Meet the Principal of Playa Vista Elementary Tuesday, August 7, an information meeting will be held for parents interested in meeting the new principal

of Playa Vista Elementary School. The meeting will take place at Playa Vista Elementary School’s multi-purpose room, located at 13150 W. Bluff Creek Drive in Playa Vista. The meeting will provide an overview of the new school facilities, present an overview of instruction programs and will offer a chance to meet the principal and teachers. For more information, please call Fortunato Tapia at (213) 241-6521. Movies and Music in the Park at Playa Vista Once again, Playa Vista and Time Warner Cable have partnered to sponsor “Movies in the Moonlight” taking place Fridays from 8-10 p.m. at the Central Park Bandshell in Playa Vista. These free events are a great kick-off to summer. A shuttle service will run from “The Shops at Concert Park” to Central Park at 7 p.m., 7:15 p.m., 7:30 p.m. and 7:45 p.m. Dropoffs after the movie will occur at 10 p.m. Pack some snacks, grab your beach towels or blanket and head on down to the park with your friends and family. No dogs please! For more info, please call (310) 448-4630. Movie Events in August: August 10: Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol August 24: Grease! Concerts will also take place twice a month during the summer season. Events take place on Sundays from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Shuttles at the Shops at Concert Park will be running from 4 to 5 p.m. every fifteen minutes and the drop-off back to your car is at 6:45 p.m. Music Events for August: August 12: Steely Jam August 26: Abbey Road: A Tribute to the Beatles Food Truck Friday Nights Join Visitation for its Food Truck Friday Nights taking place on Friday, August 17 from 5 to 10 p.m. Kids can enjoy face painting and a showing of the “Great Mouse Detective” at 6 p.m. and “The Pink Panther at 7:30 p.m. Adults can enjoy live music by Good Cop Bad Cop and O’Malley’s Pub. The school is located at 8740

Emerson Ave in Westchester. For more info, please visit visitationschool.org or call Terry O’Connor at (310) 994-9904. Westside Voices Concert On Sunday, August 26 at 3:30 p.m., join the Westside Voices for a “Sounds of Summer” concert. The concert will take place at the Westchester United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, located at 8064 Emerson Avenue in Westchester. There is a suggested donation of $10 Dessert reception following the concert. To make reservations, please call Penny at (310) 670-3777. Marina del Rey Concert Series Enjoy the beautiful summer weather by taking in a concert at Burton Chace Park for the 2012 Marina del Rey Summer Concert Series. Attendees can enjoy “Symphonic Thursdays” performed by the 75member Marina del Rey Summer Symphony led by Music Director and Conductor, Frank Fetta or if you enjoy more contemporary music, “Pop Saturdays” may make the perfect time to head down to the Marina. These free concerts are held on the waterfront. Concerts start at 7 p.m. and generally last two hours. Audience members may bring low-beach chairs or blankets and seating is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. The park is located at 13650 Mindanao way in Marina Del Rey. In support of the four Thursday evening classical concerts, the Marina del Rey Summer WaterBus operates from 5 p.m. – Midnight those evenings. It will also be operating as scheduled (11 a.m. – Midnight), for each Saturday performance. Performances include: Classical Concert Dates Thursday, August 9: Christina and Michelle Naughton, piano Thursday, August 23: Lindsay Deutsch, violin Pop Concert Dates Saturday, August 4: Arturo Sandoval Saturday, August 18: Ambrosia For more info, please visit beaches. lacounty.gov.

LMU Neighborhood Advisory Committee Community Announcement

Dear Neighbors: You are invited to attend LMU’s quarterly Neighborhood Advisory Committee meeting. This committee meets quarterly to discuss matters of public safety and student behavior in the community, parking and other concerns related to the implementation of LMU’s 20-year Master Plan. This meeting is open to the public. No RSVP required. Date: Wednesday, August 8, 2012 Time: 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. Location: Loyola Marymount University, Hilton Building, Room 100 1 LMU Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90045 Parking: Park in the Drollinger Parking Plaza. The Hilton Building is the gray building located to the east of the W.H. Hannon Library. For more information contact: Clarence Grifﬁn, Director of Community and Government Relations at 310.338.7854 or cegrifﬁn@lmu.edu

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

Page 23

COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS

August Sunday

Monday

Tuesday Tuesday

Wednesday Wednesday

Thursday Thursday

Friday Friday

Saturday Saturday

First Friday @ 87th Street & Truxton Ave.

Volunteer Day @ Emerson Community Garden

“Doubt” @ Westchester Playhouse

Marina del Rey Concert @ Burton Chace Park “Doubt” @ Westchester Playhouse

2 Marina del Rey Concert @ Burton Chace Park

Greyhound Show and Tell at Petco

Gateway to Go @ Crowne Plaza LAX

LMU Advisory Board Meeting @ LMU

“Doubt” @ Westchester Playhouse

National Night Out @ Westchester Park

Westchester Farmers’ Market @ Westchester Park

Meet the Principal @ Playa Vista Elementary

Speakers by the Sea @ Playa del Rey

7 Gateway to Go @ Crowne Plaza LAX

Concert in the Park @ Playa Vista “Doubt” @ Westchester Playhouse

14 Gateway to Go @ Crowne Plaza LAX

3 Movies in the Moonlight @ Playa Vista

Chili Cook-Off @ Elks Lodge

Saturday Night Alive “Doubt” @ Westchester @ Westchester Playhouse Christian Community Church

Westchester Farmers’ Market @ Westchester Park

Food Truck Friday Nights @ Visitation

Speakers by the Sea @ Playa del Rey

“Doubt” @ Westchester Playhouse

15 Westchester Farmers’ Market @ Westchester Park

16 Marina del Rey Concert @ Burton Chace Park

Concert in the Park @ Playa Vista

21 Gateway to Go @ Crowne Plaza LAX

11 Marina del Rey Concert @ Burton Chace Park

Closing Night of “Doubt” @ Westchester Playhouse

18 Playa Vista Farmers’ Market @ Playa Vista

Movies in the Moonlight @ Playa Vista

Speakers by the Sea @ Playa del Rey

Jet to Jetty at @ Dockweiler

Speakers by the Sea @ Playa del Rey

Westside Voices @ Westchester United Methodist Church

August 2012

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

Page 24

Fourth Of July Parade!

PHOTOS BY GLENN MARZANO.

The Real Estate Consultants Best Theme

Congratulations to Westchester Lutheran’s “Best Overall” Float!

Emerson Community Garden Honorable Mention August 2012

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

Random Notes/Opinion

Made in America By Nora Lee Owens First of all, this isn’t an advertisement for Nordstrom– although there are many fine things I could probably say about the store. For instance, where else can I shop while a pianist provides lovely background music for my extravagances? But that’s not why I’m writing this little epistle. I’m writing to convey what I think is good news. The last time I shopped at a Nordstrom store, lots of clothing said “Made in USA.” The first time I saw those words, I got really excited and thought I would have to try that item on. But when I finally went to the fitting room, everything I had with me was

domestically made, and I was proud of myself, and of Nordstrom’s. Now. Having said that, I have to also say that I have no idea where those items of clothing were made, and they may have come directly out of a sweat shop on the eastside. I didn’t “look for the union label,” and I almost certainly wouldn’t have found it. So while I’m sure the clothes I bought that day weren’t made by seamstresses who were able to put their children through college on their salary, nevertheless, it seemed a good omen that at least they were made by somebody in our country who needed a job and got one. At my next stop, a chain boutiquestyle shop that I truly love, I purchased a couple of items (I don’t shop often,

but when I do, the economy improves) that said they were made in Indonesia. While I have nothing against the citizens of Indonesia, or China, or Mexico, or the Philippines making a living, nevertheless, I much prefer to think that American companies are providing jobs to Americans and not just making their CEO’s and shareholders rich by taking advantage of the low pay scales of third-world countries. Does that seem uncharitable of me? Maybe. Sort of. Shame on me, but I like the fantasy of full employment for Americans first – then I’ll worry about the citizens of Timbuktu (which I think is in Africa and the people there probably need jobs too). The anonymous “they,” whom we all love, say that if we look at labels,

Page 25 • your community newspaper • we will be able to find products made here on the same shelves with those made elsewhere. I must confess that I usually forget to do that. There are products that I like and just reach for automatically, and I’ve no idea if they are made in the U.S. or not. Alas, this is August and not January, so I can’t make an actual New Year’s Resolution regarding my purchases. All the same, in an effort to help our economy in any way I can, I think now is as good a time as any to begin to read labels. Maybe if we all took the few minutes it takes to do that, even if it costs us a few pennies more to buy “made in the U.S.A.,” we can help bring some jobs home. Despite what my detractors think, I really do love this country.

You can live an Olympic moment By Fay Craton A swimmer reaches out, touching the goal a moment before the closest contender. In one moment of time, an Olympic competitor wins a gold medal. Something significant happens; a dream is reached. In multiple languages, media broadcasts images around the globe of the demonstration of excellence by the world’s top swimmers. People everywhere connect as they celebrate greatness of the competing athletes. Whether the event is swimming, gymnastics, sailing, basketball or some other sport, an athlete’s intense practice over many years is demonstrated. As each contest unfolds, there seems to be a magical spark capturing our imaginations. When the competitions are finished, there is a grand finale when the Olympic flame is carefully saved for the next Olympiad. After the closing ceremonies, the people of the world return to everyday lives. Have you ever wondered if a special moment in time will ever appear in your life? The magic of the Olympics begins when someone dares to believe and to feel within his or her heart the

words, “I can.” Belief is powerful. When you accept possibility, you can set an intention and create a plan of action to achieve a dream. Achieving a possibility may require learning new skills, changing your life style, and lots of practice. It may also mean facing obstacles. Many gold medal winners have many hurdles to overcome before reaching his or her goal. The hurdles can take many forms – financial, logistics, or people telling them that he or she is not good enough. The words of other people can be the hardest obstacle. As if by hypnosis, it is easy to let beliefs, jealousies, biases, and fears belonging to someone else derail your knowing of what “can be.” Suddenly, instead of living your life you find yourself thinking the thoughts of someone else and responding to the fears not belonging to you. Achieving a dream requires having a healthy support system around you. Meaningful and healthy connection with people depends on letting go of the “stuff” derailing what you know is true within your heart. You can create a life from who “you are” and not

from hypnosis. To do this demands paying attention to your thoughts and feelings. When speaking, are your words resonating within you? Are you looking at events in your life from the vantage point of what is fact or what is assumed? When you experience anxiety, are you practicing a shift from mind chatter to the messages found in your heart? Take time to know yourself. When you understand your own strengths, it becomes easier to identify when you are functioning from unhealthy beliefs and fears. One way to gain perspective is to keep a daily journal about what is working in your life. Write down what brings you contentment. When you experience joy, write it down. Include in your journal when your actions made a positive difference in your life or the life of someone else. At the end of a month, read what you wrote down. Do you see patterns? What are you observing about your strengths? Are you noticing positive contributions you make? Are you discovering how you connect with others? In your own way, you have within you the ability to be just as remarkable

as an athlete competing in the Olympics. The athlete uses his or her strengths to express what is in his or her heart. The “I can” formed in the heart of the athlete is different from the “I can” found in your heart, but the “I can” found in you is just as important. Life is full of “moments” when you can lead a remarkable life. My wish for you is to experience the magic of the Olympics in your life. What makes each moment amazing is when it is intentionally lived from a perspective coming from a knowing deep within you. Special moments can happen when you authentically connect to yourself and share that connection with others. When you believe, “I can” the spark of imagination can ignite within you a flame to carry you to achieve your dreams. Fay Craton, M.A. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (mfc40011), which is the psychology license specializing in relationships and she has an office in Westchester. Visit her website at communicationtriangle. com or (310) 645-6762.

How or where do I begin? Do I begin? By Mishele Vieira, Certified Professional Organizer® When it comes to organizing projects, many people don’t know how or where to begin. Here are some suggestions for getting started. Write out your goals– Get clear on what it is you would like to accomplish or complete and document your intentions. For example, being able to eat at the dining room table, park the car in the garage, or know where all your insurance documents are stored. Remember SMART Goals: Hometown News, January 2011): Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Timely? Research shows that people who write down their goals, share them and stay accountable are up to 33% more likely to achieve them. Note it is very important to actually WRITE

August 2012

out the goals as opposed to typing them into your computer or tablet device as this helps commit it to your consciousness. Set aside time: Schedule uninterrupted time in your calendar to work on your project(s). Most projects take longer than you might expect so in the beginning, double what you think it will take and if you finish early, consider it a bonus. Do not break the date you have with yourself. You do want to get this done don’t you? Now that we know how to begin, let’s think about WHERE to begin. Here are some ideas: What is most important/would make the biggest difference?: For example, if this thing were done would you feel less overwhelmed, less anxiety or embarrassment? In some cases

perhaps you can experience a financial difference like saving money by not having to pay for additional storage. Is there a consequence to avoid?: A bill paying system might help avoid late fees, an organized environment might prevent upset from your partner or boss. Begin with the end in mind: Now that you know what you would like to accomplish, the next step is to work backwards from the end. For example if eating at your dining room table is the goal, you would begin by clearing everything on the table. Next, relocate what was on the table to where it really belongs, or create new “homes” for things that don’t have a home, which is partly why they ended up on the dining room table. But this is not the time to re-do your entire filing system- stay

focused on eating at the dining room table. However, you may discover additional projects in your attempt to clear the dining room table. Start in one place and work your way around the room: If you can’t decide where to start, grab an empty paper towel roll, close your eyes, then hold the roll up to your eyes, open your eyes and begin in the area you see through the roll. In summary, if all things are equally important, and you are not facing major consequences, it doesn’t matter so much how or where you begin, just that you begin, and then that you keep going until completion. Mishele Vieira, CPO®, owner of Away With Chaos, helps underorganized people make room for what matters most in their home.

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

Page 26

Real Estate

• your community newspaper • • your community news • your community newspaper

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It’s important to get in front of both potential home buyers and sellers. The Westchester/Playa del Rey HomeTown News is here to help you reach out to local residents, while promoting your listings, as well as you and your business and/or company.

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Page 28

In Pictures

• your community newspaper • • your community news • your community newspaper

Westchester Del Rey Little League Major Superstars have successful season. The Superstars, managed by Jim Evans and coached by James Cooksey, Brian Dennis and Keith Parker, have a roster of 12 players with Nicole Aguirre, Adrienne Calderon, Sloan Cooksey, Morgan Dennis, Casey Gabriel, Jasmine Gomez, Serena Gonzalez, Madisen Mantooth, Imani Moore, Mia Parker, Coral Smith and Jessi Stokx. The Superstars took first place during the regular season by compiling a record of 14 wins, no losses and one tie. The team was also undefeated in interleague play against neighboring Little League teams. Having won the regular season and league playoffs, the Superstars qualified for the District 37 Little League Tournament of Champions (TOC) and completed the season with an overall record of 27 wins, 1 loss and 1 tie.

Baseball Pitch, Hit and Run Champion. Westchester resident Sam Stanford took home the title of 2012 Aquafina Major League Baseball Pitch, Hit and Run Champion (9-10 Year-Old Boys’ Division) at a July 9 event in Missouri. More than 685,000 youth participated in over 4,000 competitions that took place across North America to qualify to make it to Missouri before the winners were determined. Congrats Sam!

EL SEGUNDO CARWASH Westchester Babe Ruth Boys Win Southern California Championship. The Westchester Babe Ruth (14-year old and under) baseball team defeated La Crescenta 7-5 in July to win the Southern California State Baseball Championship. Behind stellar pitching and an explosive offense, Westchester outscored opponents 27-11 in the last three games. The team is comprised of players from Westchester, Marina del Rey, Playa Vista, Playa del Rey and surrounding cities. The Westchester 14U Babe Ruth team includes, Avery Allen, Christian Amador, Jordan Caines, Reggie Castro, Anthony Chavez, Grant Craddolph, Angel de la Torre, Lawrence “LJ” Gilliam, AJ Inatsugu, Carlos Jacobo, Matthew Kanfer, Matthew Kaplan, Ethan Lazar, Mario Morales and Jason Zeidman. The team is managed by John Lopatto and is coached by Barry Craddolph and Alex Galaviz.

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IM5 Wows at Visitation. IM5Band members pose onstage at Visitation School’s July 20 Food Truck Friday Night, with special guests and Visitation School students. From left to right: Cole Pendery, Madison Marozik, “Will,” Hayley McIntosh, Dana Vaughns, Rebecca O’Connor, “Dalton” and Gabe Morales.

August 2012

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