August edition of Westchester/Playa HomeTown News

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PHOTO BY EDITH LEVANDOSKI.

Did your favorites make the list?

The Shack takes home this year’s Best Burger honor for its famous Shack Burger.

Local groups look to work together to help strengthen community schools School may be out for summer, but dedicated volunteers are still hard at work making plans to ensure that neighborhood schools are receiving the support they need to thrive.

For education advocate Kelly Kane, a new wave of engaged community members interested in education

A Look Inside Your

HomeTown

has inspired her to reinvigorate the Westchester/Playa Education Foundation (WPEF), the nonprofit she founded to support local schools. While the group has been in existence for ten years, for the last few it has been less public about its advocacy efforts, something that

Kane is looking to change.

The group held its first public meeting in two years last month and Kane was encouraged by what she saw: a new crop of young parents looking to get involved and learn how to strengthen local schools.

Instead of new volunteers starting

from scratch, she sees WPEF as a resource that local groups can use to get information, learn the history of schools in the area and get advice. “How do you keep forward momentum if no one even (continued on page 4)

Meet Sifted:LA

Shop Local

Parade in Pictures

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Sifted:LA hopes to bring treasures and training to Westchester For Sifted: LA owner and Westchester resident, Chris Getto, opening a vintage and antique store is about much more than just selling items. For Getto, it’s a means to an end in order to support his passion for working with adults with developmental disabilities and helping teach them vocational and social skills.

His passion for working with adults with disabilities started ten years ago when Getto applied for a position as a job coach at an adult day program that was owned by a friend’s family. In the lobby waiting for the interview, Getto’s life would soon change. When a group of the adult day program clients) walked in, the enthusiasm, excitement and friendliness they showed Getto was “amazing” and he knew he was in the right place. With his commitment to his job and his clients, Getto quickly worked his way up to a director position, all while earning a master’s degree in clinical psychology from Pepperdine University. While Getto found meaning in his job and was encouraged by seeing his clients thrive, the need to strike out on his own and try his hand at a more lucrative career led him to dabble in real estate with his wife for a short time. While he enjoyed the work, he kept coming back to the idea of owning his own business, which would give him the space for vocational and social skills training for the individuals that initially inspired him.

Although he had inquired about a few spaces that didn’t pan out, he became encouraged when he noticed an underutilized space in the back of the Dollar Store in the Westchester Triangle and wondered if they would be interested in leasing it out. It turns out they were, so he took a leap of faith and signed a lease. Even though he wasn’t quite sure what types of products he’d be selling at his new retail store and didn’t have a “real plan,” it didn’t really matter as long as he had a storefront, which could double as a vocational training location for adults with disabilities.

Despite having little carpentry experience, Getto spent the first two months building out the store and creating one-of-a kind tables and counter tops to showcase his products. He eventually settled on the

Page 2 • August 2014

Above: Sifted: LA owner Chris Getto sits with some of his sifted treasures ready for purchase. Below: The Sifted:LA mural.

idea of a store selling “uniques–” a combination of antiques, collectibles and vintage items, and began scouring his own collection, garage and estate sales and thrift stores for products.

After sharing his mission with Venice graffiti artist Jules Muck, she agreed to paint the large mural that doubles as a store sign on the front of the building, which overlooks the parking lot.

“I wanted a store like this in Westchester. Some of this is me helping shape the neighborhood I would like to see–mom and pop stores that are niched-based,” said Getto. “So far the feedback has been good with people saying ‘this is exactly what Westchester needs.’”

Since opening in mid-July, Getto has been encouraged by the response he has received from locals and people passing by looking to check out his inventory. After learning about the store’s mission, some have even donated items, including art and furniture, for him to sell in the store.

Getto is currently waiting to see if he is approved for a grant through the Westside Regional Center to start a vocational training program at the store. Even if it is not approved, he will create his own program for adults

with disabilities interested in learning about retail. He loves the idea of helping his potential clients gain the skills to open their own stores and become their own bosses.

“Entrepreneurship would be great.

That would be the dream,” said Getto.

“That would be the most amazing thing.”

Getto sees the opportunity for adults with disabilities to learn social and vocational skills as a way for them to become independent and realize their dreams. With just a little bit of help, he sees the potential in many of the people he has worked with to have

jobs and their own housing.

While Getto hopes the community embraces the store and his vocational program is a success, he feels confident Sifted: LA is where he is meant to be right now.

“This is not about stuff,” said Getto.

“I know no matter what happens I tried as hard as I could to make it work.”

Sifted: LA is located at 6259 W. 87th Street in Westchester and is open Tuesday through Friday noon to 8 p.m. and Saturday noon to 6 p.m.

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

This Month Brings You A look inside your HTN 87th Street merchants want you to shop local 6 7 Slow and steady wins the race to better health Student explores creative side at Otis’ Summer of Art 12 Our 2014 Best Of Results 13-28 Calendar/To Do 30 In pictures 38

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

Jeff Blair, Contributing Writer Jack Younger, Contributing Cartoonist

Advertisers’ Directory Airport Marina Counseling 05 All County Beach Cities 17 Ayara Thai Cuisine 14 Business & Professional 34 Cantalini’s Salerno Beach 26 Covenant Presbyterian Church 32 Custom Design & Construction 06 Daily Grill 07 Decron Properties 28 Del Rey Optometry 25 Drollinger Properties 11,19 El Segundo Car Wash 12 Food Pantry, LAX 32 Flowers by Felicia 19 Gateway to GO! 12 Guilded Cage 32 Horn Strength & Conditioning 27 Kevin and Kaz Gallaher 36 Jane St. John 37 LA Arts Collective 08 LAX Young Professionals 02 Loyola Marymount 04 LiveYoga Wellness 26 Marina del Rey Hospital 33 Marina Veterinary Center 18 Matilla Realty 29 McClintock Dental 07

Neighborhood Council 40 Paseo Elementary 23 Petals ‘N’ Wax 20 Pigments of our Imagination 32 Playa Pharmacy 19 Playa Physical Care 27 Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary 23 Playa Vista 24 Playa West Automotive 21 REAL Creative Space 23 Silver Seminar Series 09 Socal Sports and Fitness 29 South Bay Brokers 36 The Good Pizza 16 The Shack 15 Tompkins Square 20 Truxton’s American Bistro 15 Visitation School 35 Voss, Silverman and Braybrooke 21 Westchester Watch Works 27 Westside Neighborhood School 22 WISH Charter School 22 Yogurtland Westchester 17 Westchester Lutheran 08 Westchester Town Center BID 03 Westchester/Playa Village 08 Zacha Homes 37

t a t i d n u o f I ! r e t n e C n w o T r e t s e h Westc

About The HomeTown News (HTN)

– MASON SHAYAN

“As someone who has been involved with Westchester Vitalization and the Westchester Farmers Market for many years, I know the value of great local businesses. That’s why I can take of everything right here in Westchester Town Center. Whether it’s training at Tenshin-Kai karate studio, getting food for my dogs at PETCO or having a meeting at The Coffee Company, WTC has it all!”

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.

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

shop dine enjoy www.westchestertowncenter.com August 2014 • Page 3

Education in the community (continued) (continued from page 1) remembers where we were five years ago?” said Kane. “If WPEF can recruit some new blood and hopefully at some point new leadership, my hope is to bring up some people in the ranks who are energized and enthused and give them the benefit of the relationships [we have built] with pillars in the community.”

While the group in the past has only focused on traditional public schools, Kane recognizes that the changing landscape of public education and the increase in charter schools in the area makes it important to embrace all local schools.

“The only way to make a big change is to all be united and make the schools better for every child that attends them. The schools have to be excellent for all kids that go there,” said Kane. “It’s important to embrace the people who are coming up and give them answers and encouragement and empower them to improve our schools.”

The Neighborhood Council of Westchester/Playa is one group that Kane hopes to work with in the future. The volunteer-led council just re-launched its Education Committee, led by newly elected board member Michele Cooley-Strickland. At the July Education Committee meeting,

Page 4 • August 2014

committee members locked down tangible targets for the group, including enhancing school resources, enhancing student’s educational experiences and enhancing community and parent involvement.

The goal is to give NCWP stakeholders support in their efforts in enhancing the local schools.

Said Cooley-Strickland, a research psychologist at UCLA, “If we can work together to make these schools better, even if it not just for your child, then we are all better off for it. Schools are the fabric of the community.”

While historically the elementary schools have had great support from parents, Cooley-Strickland wants to make sure that her group works to engage middle and high school parents and students, as well.

According to Cooley-Strickland, with so much misinformation out there about schools and issues such as enrollment, the group hopes to create a list of frequently asked questions to help dispel some of the myths. The committee is also looking into the feasibility of hosting an education summit and partnering with other local groups that are looking to accomplish similar goals.

The LAX Coastal Chamber’s Education Committee co-chair, Lori

Principals and administrators discuss best practices at the chamber’s monthly education committee meeting.

Sarlo, feels encouraged by the recent surge of focus on education and share best practices. The business group’s education committee, although closed to non-members, brings together local principals and administrators to discuss education in the community. The committee is also responsible for hosting the annual teacher appreciation dinner, The Teacher Eddy Awards, and serves as the facilitator for the Rotary Club’s Teacher Mini-Grants.

Want to get involved? The next WPEF meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, August 26 at 7 p.m. in the Westchester Community Room, located at 7166 W. Manchester Ave. in Westchester. For more information, join their Facebook group at facebook. com/groups/wpef2014.

The NCWP Education Committee meets the fourth Wednesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. in the Westchester Community Room. The next meeting will be held Wednesday, August 27.

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

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

August 2014 • Page 5

A live band plays while attendees enjoy treats from visiting food trucks at this month’s Westchester First Fridays event.

87th Street merchants remind community about the importance of shopping local

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If you haven’t been to the Westchester Triangle’s 87th Street in a while, local merchants are encouraging the community to visit the quaint area and take a look around.

Merchants are working hard to create a place that the community wants to visit and patronize.

For store owners like Kathleen Marinaccio, who earlier this year opened REAL Creative Space, a creative workshop that hosts art classes, the street often gets pegged as a place with a lot of hair salons and barber shops. While it’s true that those looking to get a haircut will find no shortage of options along the street, Marinaccio says the street is so much more. “Shopping local helps the economy and local families,� said Marinaccio. “It’s more personal and helps the neighborhood stay going forward. We need to support local businesses.�

Marinaccio says that the businesses along the street, many of which are owned or operated by Westchester/ Playa residents like herself, including Ayara Thai Cuisine, World Karate, Needlepoints West, Canterbury Art Shoppe, Smart Set Travel and Westchester Bakery, are supportive of the community and donate to school fundraisers and non-profits.

REAL donates a portion of their proceeds from art classes to local schools, with Westchester Secondary Charter School, Westport Heights and Cowan so far benefiting.

Being on the small street creates an enhanced community atmosphere, with local merchants getting to know their customers by name and helping create a small-town feel for both merchants and patrons. The Triangle’s Main Street U.S.A feel

Nina James and friends display some of their merchandise to help create a sidewalk sale feel at the monthly event.

also keeps it a popular location for television commercials. “It’s really a community,� said Marinaccio. “We are trying to beef it up here and get more artisan things.�

Westchester resident Nina James, who owns Tesouro, believes that there are a lot of great things happening with 87th Street, especially its Westchester First Friday event. James just celebrated her one year anniversary and originally opened her business at that location due to the monthly food truck event that happens the first Friday of every month from 4 to 9 p.m. At the event, merchants leave their doors open, creating an openhouse feel, and many bring tables out on the street to show off their products and meet their customers.

Some of the Westside’s best food trucks line the street, giving visitors the chance to eat al fresco with their neighbors, shop and listen to live music.

Recent additions to the Westchester Triangle, like The Candy Bar Hookah Shoppe, Sifted:LA and the Crossfit Aviators gym, keep merchants excited for the future of the area and hopeful that new businesses will continue to open.

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

Slow and steady wins the race to better health

By Jeff Blair Opinion: Most of us do not like the idea of starting small in fitness or anything else. You have probably never seen a motivational poster encouraging you to “Start Small!”

We want to set big goals, dream big dreams and go for the brass ring. That is the American way, right? While it is great to have big goals, these can be potentially counter-productive if not handled correctly.

For example, many people have a fitness goal to lose weight; 20 lbs. is a common goal. To lose 20 lbs and keep it off “simply” requires someone to increase physical activity while decreasing caloric intake. That sounds easy, right? While these changes may be simple, they are rarely easy.

Losing weight and keeping it off means permanent and sustained behavioral change must occur. And behavioral change is difficult since our chosen behaviors have some type of reward behind them. We eat higher calorie foods for comfort or pleasure, for example. When we reduce our consumption of them, you are temporarily sacrificing some pleasure. Many of us have spent years developing this behavioral reward system so the change poses a challenge.

When we set a goal to lose 20 lbs. without moving incrementally towards the goal, we often fail. Once we fail, we get discouraged and lose confidence.

When we lose confidence, we become susceptible to every gimmicky diet scheme out there, which is why Americans spend $50 billion dollars annually on diet plans knowing they probably will not work.

In my experience, most weight loss attempts fail since they underestimate the difficulty of making behavioral change. People think they are going to set a goal and change decades of behavior overnight and that rarely occurs. Or they are going to go on a diet for 30 days, lose the weight and then revert back to old eating patterns and keep the weight off. Neither of these approaches work. Here is what I have found does work in 5 steps: 1. Set a very small physical activity goal. Walk 10 or 20 minutes per day for two weeks. When you do this, you are not making any dramatic, hard to sustain change such as “never eating sweets again.” You are just increasing your physical activity a small amount.

It will not feel so painful to start with a small physical activity goal. In fact, most people will feel better since moderate exercise makes almost everyone feel better.

2. Set a very small nutritional goal.

Rather than “never eating sweets again,” eat one more fruit or vegetable per day for two weeks. Most people can find one fruit or vegetable they enjoy so again this will not feel like a deprivation exercise. My experience is people begin to feel better when they eat healthier so, like moderate exercise, this change will not feel like you are removing pleasurable activity which can be hard to sustain for many.

3. Bump it up a little. After a couple weeks of moderate exercise and moderate nutritional changes, increase the exercise and add another positive nutritional change. If you are walking 10 minutes daily, walk 20 minutes.

If you are eating one extra apple per day, make it 2. Try to maintain these changes for another two weeks.

After a month of making these small changes, most people will begin to feel better and seek out more of the same behavior.

4. Find Support. If you do not have some type of support system for your healthy changes, it is going to be very hard to sustain them. Take your spouse with you on your walk, join a hiking club or meet your friend at the Farmers’ Market. Whatever you do, find friends to help you on your journey.

5. Set a Bigger Goal and Go For

It. Big goals motivate people so after you lay the foundation for behavioral change described in steps 1-4 above, set a big goal. Set a goal to lose 20 lbs. or to walk a half-marathon or get into some jeans you have not worn in years. By taking a month to create a fitness foundation, you put yourself in a much better position to succeed.

Once you set the big goal, do whatever you can to motivate yourself to achieve it. Listen to motivational talks, post goals where you can see them daily and get fired up! I have even had clients go to hypnosis to increase focus and motivation. Expect a few bumps in the road, but commit and then persist until you succeed.

You can do it if you put your mind to it!

Whatever the goal, by starting small and taking these five steps, you will be in a much better position to achieve it.

Before you try this or any fitness routine, please 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 2014 Readers’ Poll. Email jeffblair@ jeffblairfitness.com for fitness story ideas or comments.

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August 2014 • Page 7

Visitation welcomes new pastor to church Visitation Church recently welcomed Monsignor James Forsen to its congregation. Monsignor Forsen has been a priest with the Archdiocese of Los Angeles for 35 years.

He was born in Burbank and raised in Mission Hills, in the San Fernando Valley. He is the only son of Robert Forsen, a police officer for the LAPD for 30 years and Helen, a Catholic school teacher for more than 28 years.

He attended St. Ferdinand’s Catholic Grade School in San Fernando and upon graduation, he entered high school at Our Lady Queen of Angeles Minor Seminary.

He attended St. John College Seminary and graduated from St. John Theologate with a Master of Divinity.

After 12 years of seminary education, he was ordained in 1979

by Cardinal Timothy Manning. He has served the Archdiocese of Los Angeles as an associate pastor at St. Joan of Arc Parish in West L.A.; St. Mark Parish in Venice; Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in East L.A., and as a pastor at St. John the Baptist Parish in Baldwin Park in the San Gabriel Valley.

We’re into the home stretch of summer. One more trip to the beach, one more getaway, a few last Freedom reedom from doubt. Freedom from fear fear. days of freedom.

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lo oving, forgiving relationship with the Lord. ord. Join new friends in a celebration of Come soak up the Son with us. Discover a everything verything that is possible when you live community of loving, accepting people eager in n harmony with the Word. to share their walk of faith with you. You’ll ¿QG FHOHEUDWLRQ DQG VXSSRUW MR\ DQG SHDFH refreshment and renewal. Join us. It’s not too late to soak up the Son. All are welcome.

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Monsignor Forsen.

After 12 years as a pastor, he was made Director of the Office for Vocations for the Archdiocese, where he worked for the last 10 years, while residing in South Central Los Angeles, assisting at both St. Columbkille and Nativity parishes.

In his new assignment, Monsignor Forsen will serve as the church’s pastor.

Yoga & Adult Fitness classes now available!

Page 8 • August 2014

Soak up the Son.

WPV would like to thank Neutrogena Corporation, Hilton Los Angeles Airport Hotel, Crowne Plaza Hotel, Whiskey Red’s and First Citizen Bank for their generous donations.

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

The Silver Seminar Series Presents

Tuesday, August 26 2-4 PM at the YMCA Annex 8020 Alverstone Ave Westchester, 90045

Sponsored by: Drolllinger Properties Morrey Plotkin

Please join us for a fun afternoon: x

Music & Dancing

x

Light refreshments

x

Drawings & Prizes

Recommended $5 Donation RSVP by Monday, August 12 to Westchester Playa Village (310) 695-7030

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

August 2014 • Page 9

Random Notes/Opinion

TheHTN.com

Being optimistic helps you be successful

By Fay Craton Opinion: Sometimes it is enjoyable to go through a store check out.

The clerk makes the entire process pleasant by being authentically friendly and helpful. Other times, the shopping experience is not as enjoyable. It may be my imagination, but when stores have clerks with positive outlooks, they seem to do more business. I know I am more likely to return to a store giving me an upbeat impression.

Life in general works the same way.

Optimistic people seem to thrive while negative people seem to have an unending stream of problems. I have noticed folks who do well in life take personal responsibility for their ways of thinking and communicating.

Upbeat people recover from difficult situations without getting bogged down in grudges or become hurt over what someone else has or is doing.

Research conducted by Martin E.P. Seligman, Ph.D. at the University of Pennsylvania establishes positive emotion and engagement as part of the criteria for a sense of well-being.

An expression of a positive attitude has long been recognized as being a key element in successful family, work and community relationships.

Negativity is a leading cause for marriage failure and job loss. Attitude is much more than what is verbally expressed. Your thought patterns and how you think is conveyed in how

Page 10 • August 2014

you hold your body, look at another person and manner in which you do (or do not do) tasks.

You can change your mind set. To do so, first you must pay attention to what you are saying and doing.

Your beliefs are habits formed over a long period of time. Right now, how are your habits serving you?

What patterns do you hold which are driving a fear-based response to people you love and to the world around you? Are your beliefs leading you to feeling comfortable? Do they strengthen the quality of the rapport with those around you? By holding onto your routine responses to others, will you be able to forge mutually respectful connections with family? Do your beliefs trap you into living life filled with grudges? Are you frequently angry or depressed?

How is your mental conditioning assisting you to meaningfully engage in life? Your beliefs are not who you are and, if you apply yourself to the effort, your beliefs can be changed.

You have many “strengths” and in changing your beliefs, you open yourself up to recognizing how you can positively contribute in a meaningful manner.

As you think about your responses to these questions, are you finding your perceptions support a meaningful life or do your responses tend to wear you down? If they are not supporting you, it is time to make some changes. By improving your

attitude you will discover you have considerable personal resources to ensure a solid sense of well-being.

Once you identify a challenge you have in your belief system, you can begin to transform it into a practice of thinking and behaving which supports you in flourishing.

This change takes effort on your part. A destructive style of thinking can be similar to an addiction. The entrenched habitual negativity can seduce you to blame others instead of doing the work to build a healthy life. The truth is an upbeat outlook with corresponding behaviors and communication can save relationships, jobs and your mental health.

My wish for you is that you have an enjoyable life. To make this happen, I encourage you to develop habits designed to increase a positive perspective. Studies have shown that keeping a daily gratitude journal is a step in forming new thought patterns.

A journal will start shifting your thoughts away from what is wrong.

Try to spend at least ten minutes a night listing what went well. In Seligman’s research about gratitude journals, he added to this exercise the suggestion to also list into the journal why what happened went well.

Once you establish a nightly routine of acknowledging what went well, add to your journaling a start of day practice of writing down what you plan to do that day

to make another person’s life better.

Suggestions for this activity are: offer to give somebody a ride to an event or to the store; give items you are not using to a non-profit thrift shop; express appreciation to a family member or friend for something he or she is doing; when driving let another driver change lanes in front of you; or tutor a student in a difficult subject. The possibilities are endless.

Stay with the journaling process for at least a couple of months. Then do a personal assessment to decide if your outlook on life has changed. You may decide to continue the exercise indefinitely. If you are consistent in your practice, you are forming new beneficial pathways in your thinking.

Through your words and behaviors you can gain personal power to thrive in this world. Sometimes people find it beneficial to join a support group or to see a therapist (or a combination of both) while a new viewpoint is developed. There are some excellent free self-help groups.

If you would like to contact me to discuss where you may be able to find one, please send an email to info@ communicationtriangle.com.

Fay Craton, M.A. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (mfc40011). She has an office in Westchester. Contact her at (310) 645-6762 or visit www. communicationtriangle.com.

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

Seniors reminded to stay cool during summer Opinion: As temperatures heat up here in southern California during August and September, older adults need to pay particular attention. The elderly are more prone to the effects of heat stress than younger people for several reasons. As we age, our bodies do not adjust as well as young people to sudden changes in temperature, both hot and cold. Older adults are also more likely to have one or more chronic medical conditions (diabetes, heart disease, chronic lung disease) that alter the normal body responses to heat. The elderly generally take prescription medicines, some that can impair the body’s ability to regulate its temperature or inhibit perspiration.

If you are an older adult there are thing you can and should do this time of year to protect yourself from heat-related illness like increase the amount of fluids you drink, especially cool, nonalcoholic beverages. If you take water pills or you have been told to limit the amount of fluids, then talk with your health care provider about how much you should drink when the weather gets hot. Avoid being outside in the heat of the day and wear lightweight clothing during the summer months. If you enjoy exercising or working outside in the yard, do so during the early morning or evening hours, never in the heat of the day, always wear a hat and

bring water to drink during your activity. Seek an air-conditioned environment, especially on days when the temperature rises over 90 degrees.

If you don’t have air conditioning in your home, visit an air conditioned shopping mall, public library or other place with air conditioning to cool off.

If you have an elderly relative or neighbor, when the temperature rises there are things you can do to help protect them from heatrelated problems. This is particularly important for those older adults who live alone or who are homebound.

Plan to personally visit or arrange to have someone visit them once or twice a day to watch for changes that may be signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Make sure the temperature inside the home is not excessive. Purchase or loan them a fan to use and open windows to allow for ventilation. Encourage and remind older adults to increase their fluid intake by drinking cool, non-alcoholic beverages, regardless of how active or inactive they are. If the person’s home does not have air conditioning and they lack transportation to go on their own, take your relative or neighbor to an air conditioned location, or arrange for someone to do so.

Freddi Segal-Gidan, PA, PhD is a Physician Associate and Gerontologist. She also serves on the board of directors for WestchesterPlaya Village.

Your Neighborhood.

Your News.

“

Stop in for a great selection of beauty products from hair care to nail polish.

Beauty Town has everything you’re looking for, including affordable prices and great service.

– Karen Dial, President

“

By Freddi Segal-Gidan

Beauty Town Beauty Supply has moved from its former location on Sepulveda Boulevard to a new location above the PETCO store in Westchester Village.

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

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August 2014 • Page 11

Student explores creative side at Summer of Art thanks to Otis, Playa Vista Victor Zapata has spent his summer following his passion.

The Venice High School student just wrapped up four weeks at Otis College of Art and Design’s Summer of Art, an intensive, pre-college program for students ages 15 and older. In the program, young artists seeking to strengthen and enhance their art and design skills are immersed in a dynamic, creative environment with other students who are passionate about art and design. Students attend from throughout California and the United States, as well as other countries to experience what it is like to study at one of the top art and design colleges in the world.

“This has been an incredible experience for me,” said Zapata, who attended the program thanks to a scholarship from local developer Playa Vista/Brookfield Residential.

“I learned more than I ever thought I would, and just being around so many creative people has helped me grow as an artist.”

Zapata focused his work on drawing and graphic design, but students in the program can choose from a wide

array of choices in fine art and design, including Painting, 2D Animation and Graphic Design. Classes met daily and students were awarded 3 units of college credit upon successful completion of the program.

“Summer of Art offers students a preview of the college experience and what it is like to pursue a career in art and design,” said Inez Bush, Associate Director, Otis College.

“Scholarships help support students who might otherwise not be able to have this experience, which can be life-changing. Studying art or design in this environment enhances one’s creativity, imagination and critical thinking skills, providing excellent training for any career path.”

Zapata developed his love of art after participating in the Boys & Girls Clubs of Venice Fine Arts program, which provides high quality, fine arts programming to at-risk, lowincome, underserved youth in Venice and its neighboring communities.

The program encourages artistic expression among youth (continued on page 34)

Zapata (center) poses for a picture after the art show with Brookfield/Playa Vista’s Sibyl Buchanan and Otis’ Inez Bush (left).

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

Dear Readers, After much anticipation, we are proud to share the results of our 2014 Third Annual Best Of Poll with you! We love this community and are honored to help recognize some of the outstanding restaurants, businesses, events and organizations that took home honors in this year’s poll!

Voting took place from June 5 through July 20 and readers were invited to vote via a survey link accessed through our website at thehtn.com.

Votes were limited to one vote per IP address.

In the following pages you will find our “Best Of” honorees, as well as our runner-up “Favorites.” If you haven’t been to some of these local gems, consider stopping by and patronizing these businesses. You may find a

new favorite restaurant or new place to volunteer.

This list serves as a reminder that the Westchester/Playa/Marina area is thriving and there’s a lot of great places to eat and things to do in our own backyard. It also reminds us to shop local when we can; after all, it’s often the small local businesses that help support the little leagues, schools, non-profits and community event that help make up our great community. If your favorites didn’t make it on this year’s list, we encourage you to vote in next year’s poll and make your voice heard!

Thank you to all of our readers for voting and making our Best Of list possible. We are humbled by the support of our readers, advertisers and our community who make this publication possible. Congratulations to all of our 2014 reader-voted Best Of and Favorite honorees!

-The HomeTown News

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

Best Of Edition

August 2014 • Page 13

BEST RESTAURANT

Favorites: Beach Pizza

Truxton’s American Bistro

8601 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.827.2000 or eatbeachpizza.com

8611 Truxton Ave., Westchester 310.417.8789 or truxtonsamericanbistro.com Since opening in Westchester 8 years ago, Truxton’s has delighted diners with its menu full of reinvented classics and friendly service. Dishes like the Gilly burger, BBQ Brisket Sandwich and the El Paso Plate have earned Truxton’s our Best Restaurant designation in this year’s poll.

Vinny’s Pizza 8412 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.641.8666 or vinnyspizza.com

BEST BAR Tony P’s Dockside Grill

6212 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.645.8692 or pacoscantina.com

4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com With eight large screen tvs, more than 100 beers from all over the world and numerous signature cocktails, including the Tony P’s Mai Tai, the restaurants’ “Tavern” is the place to be to hangout, watch a game or meet up with friends for a drink.

BEST BURGER

Favorites: Cinco

Favorites: Cantalini’s Salerno Beach 193 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.821.0018 or salernobeach.com

Paco’s Tacos

The Shack 185 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.823.6222 or the-shacks.com The laid-back vibe of Playa del Rey’s The Shack is the perfect location to try our readers’ number one burger pick two year’s in a row. The Shack Burger boasts a 1/2 pound patty with all the “fixins,” which includes a Louisiana hot link.

Favorites: Humble Potato 8321 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 323.989.2242 or humblepotato.com

Tompkins Square 8522 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.670.1212 or t2barandgrill.com

BEST DESSERTS Westchester Bakery 6216 W. 87th St., Westchester 310.215.9606 or westchesterbakery.com Walk into this local bakery for a wide-variety of cookies, cakes, pastries and treats sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Our favorites include the Florentine cookie and strawberry-filled cakes.

Favorites: Truxton’s American Bistro

Melody Bar and Grill

the Vegan Bahn Mi put this Marina del Rey sandwich shop first on the list for our readers. The fresh salads and soups on the menu make the perfect pairing for any of the shop’s offerings.

9132 Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.670.1994 or barmelodylax.com

BEST ITALIAN Alejo’s 8343 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.670.6677 or alejosrestaurant.com No matter what you order at this Lincoln Blvd. restaurant, make sure you save room for Alejo’s signature bread, served with olive oil and tons of garlic; just make sure you stock up on mints!

Bay Cities Deli 1517 Lincoln Blvd., Santa Monica 310.395.8279 or baycitiesitaliandeli.com

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

Italy’s Little Kitchen 8516 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.645.1220 or italyslittlekitchen.com

Favorites: Mo’s Place 203 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.822.6422 or mosplacepdr.com

BEST BUSINESS LUNCH SPOT

Piknik 13020 Pacific Promenade, Playa Vista 310.496.3966 or piknicplayavista.com

Small Batch at Playa Provisions

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

Tony P’s Dockside Grill

7929 Emerson Ave., Westchester 310.215.1883 or 8115 W. Manchester Ave., Playa del Rey 310.827.0500 or thegoodpizza.com Whether it’s dine-in, take-out or delivery, The Good Pizza’s 18’’ tossed-by-hand pies always hit the spot. Look for their Pesto Pizza Bianca or rotating specials next time you stop in either their Westchester or Playa del Rey location.

8501 Pershing Dr. Ste 3, Playa del Rey 310.439.2256 or delreydeli.com

BEST STEAK

8611 Truxton Ave., Westchester 310.417.8789 or truxtonsamericanbistro.com

The Good Pizza

Favorites: Del Rey Deli

Favorites: Cantalini’s Salerno Beach

Truxton’s American Bistro

BEST PIZZA

BEST RESTAURANT Truxton’s American Bistro

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

8611 Truxton Ave., Westchester 310.417.8789 or truxtonsamericanbistro.com 119 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.683.5019 or playaprovisions.com

PHOTO COURTESY TRUXTON’S.

FOOD & DRINK

categories

BEST RESTAURANT ATMOSPHERE Tony P’s Dockside Grill 4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com

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

Favorites: Cinco

BEST SANDWICH SHOP

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

Mendocino Farms 4724 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.822.2300 or mendocinofarms.com Sandwiches like the Farm Club, Steak BLT and

BEST HAPPY HOUR CINCO 7241 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.910.0895 or cincola.com Westchester’s Cinco has you covered for Happy Hour, Monday through Friday, from 3 to 7 p.m.

Guests can nibble on Queso Fundido and Tacos while enjoying deals on the draft of the day and margaritas.

Favorites: Melody Bar and Grill 9132 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.670.1994 or barmelodylax.com

Tony P’s Dockside Grill 4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com

BEST NEIGHBORHOOD BAR Tompkins Square 8522 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.670.1212 or t2barandgrill.com Since 2004, this neighborhood bar has been the hangout for folks looking to enjoy a drink, get a bite to eat or meet up with friends old and new.

Favorites: Melody Bar and Grill 9132 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.670.1994 or barmelodylax.com

Cinco 7241 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.910.0895 or cincola.com

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

VOTED BEST THAI RESTAURANT AND BEST LUNCH SPOT AYARA THAI CUISINE - WESTCHESTER 6245 W 87TH St, Los Angeles, CA 90045

THANKS FOR VOTING FOR AYARA! ENJOY A FREE ICE CREAM ON US With purchase of $50 or more (Must present ad at time of purchase. Valid for dine-in / one time use only. Expires September 1, 2014)

Page 14 • August 2014

BEST OF 2014

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

BEST BAR Tony P’s Dockside Grill

BEST SEAFOOD Killer Shrimp 4211 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey, 310.578.2293 or killershrimp.com When you’re in the mood for shrimp, fish, oysters or crab legs, Killer Shrimp’s extensive seafood menu and signature dishes will leave you feeling satisfied.

Thai dishes. Also voted Best Lunch Spot in this year’s poll, the restaurant’s lunch combos give readers the chance to sample a variety of the popular restaurant’s signature dishes.

Favorites: Thai Dishes 6234 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.342.0046 or thaidishes-la.com

Thai Talay

Favorites: Kanpai

8411 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.670.3055 or thethaitalay.com

8325 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.338.7223 or kanpai-sushi.net

BEST LUNCH SPOT

Tony P’s Dockside Grill 4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com

BEST THAI RESTAURANT Ayara Thai Cuisine 6245 W. 87th St., Westchester 310.410.8848 or ayarathaicuisine.com This 87th Street gem is always packed with diners in the mood for authentic and delicious

Ayara Thai Cuisine 6245 W. 87th St., Westchester 310.410.8848 or ayarathaicuisine.com

Favorites: Tony P’s Dockside Grill 4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com

Truxton’s American Bistro 8611 Truxton Ave., Westchester 310.417.8789 or truxtonsamericanbistro.com

THANKS FOR VOTING TRUXTON’S

BEST RESTAURANT We’re so grateful for the support of the communities we serve.

Thank you for eight great years and many more to come!

B R E A K FA ST

S E A S O N A L FE AT U R E S

P R I VAT E D I N I N G

LU N C H

D E LI V E RY

FU LL BA R

DINNER

C AT E R I N G

8611 Truxton Avenue, Westchester (310) 417 - 8789 1329 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica (310) 393 - 8789 Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

BEST OF 2014

August 2014 • Page 15

BEST PIZZA The Good Pizza

BEST DESSERTS Westchester Bakery

BEST AMERICAN

BEST BREAKFAST

310.645.8692 or pacoscantina.com

Truxton’s American Bistro

The Coffee Company

8611 Truxton Ave., Westchester 310.417.8789 or truxtonsamericanbistro.com

8751 La Tijera Blvd., Westchester 310.645.7315 or laxcoffeeco.com The Coffee Company has long been the place for locals and visitors alike to visit with friends and family while enjoying homestyle breakfast favorites like Belgium Waffles, fluffy pancakes or eggs any way you like them.

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

Favorites: Dinah’s 6521 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.645.0456 or dinahsrestaurant.com

Tony P’s Dockside Grill 4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com

Favorites: Dinah’s

BEST BRUNCH

J. Nichols

Truxton’s American Bistro 8611 Truxton Ave., Westchester 310.417.8789 or truxtonsamericanbistro.com

Favorites: The Coffee Company 8751 La Tijera Blvd., Westchester 310.645.7315 or laxcoffeeco.com

Tony P’s Dockside Grill 4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com

6521 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.645.0456 or dinahsrestaurant.com 4375 Glencoe Ave. Marina del Rey 310.823,2283 or jnicholskitchen.com

BEST NIGHTLIFE

BEST FAMILY RESTAURANT

Favorites: Yogurtland Westchester 8752 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.649.5600 or yogurt-land.com

Menchies

9132 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.670.1994 or barmelodylax.com DJs, Karaoke nights and live music, not to mention a great food menu and full bar, make the Melody a hot spot for nightlife in the HomeTown News area.

Multiple locations, menchies.com

Favorites: Cinco

Paco’s Tacos

Tony P’s Dockside Grill 4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com

Truxton’s American Bistro 8611 Truxton Ave., Westchester 310.417.8789 or truxtonsamericanbistro.com

BEST FROZEN YOGURT

Favorites: Paco’s Tacos

Yogolicious Westchester

BEST OF 2014

No matter your favorite flavor, this self-serve yogurt shop will please with its myriad of flavor and topping combinations.

Melody Bar and Grill

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

6212 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester

Page 16 • August 2014

Tony P’s Dockside Grill

8601 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.670.9646

BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT 6212 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.645.8692 or pacoscantina.com From tacos, burritos, chimichangas and enchiladas, what’s not to love about this family-friendly Westchester restaurant?

Favorites: El Tarasco Westchester 8620 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.338.0399

Hacienda Del Rey 8347 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.670.8588

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August 2014 • Page 17

BEST DATE NIGHT RESTAURANT Cafe del Rey 4451 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.6395 or cafedelreymarina.com Cafe del Rey’s Mediterranean-inspired menu, coupled with its beautiful location right on the Marina make this our reader’s number one pick for a romantic night out.

Favorites: Caffe Pinguini 6935 Pacific Ave., Playa del Rey 310.306.0117 or caffepinguini.com

Tony P’s Dockside Grill 4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com

BUSINESS BEST PHARMACY CVS

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

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

BEST VETERINARIAN

Cantalini’s Salerno Beach

Westchester Veterinary Center

Favorites: Olive It 6231 W. 87th St., Westchester 310.242.2092 or oliveit.com

New York Food Company 2320 Alaska Ave., El Segundo 310.643.6151 or newyorkfood.com

8911 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.645.4444 or westchestervet.com Dr. Yoo and his team at Westchester Veterinary Center are dedicated to providing high-quality medical care for your dogs, cats and exotic animals. The full-service hospital also makes sure to focus on preventative medicine to keep pets healthy and happy.

13476 W. Washington Blvd., Marina del Rey 888.204.2933 or baycitiesvet.com

Marina Veterinary Center 8421 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.642.8080 or marinavet.com

The Coffee Company

BEST MOVIE THEATER

Favorites: Felicia’s Coffee Garden 8428 Pershing Dr., Playa del Rey 310.305.1200 or flowersbyfeliciapdr.com

Tanner’s Coffee 200 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.574.2739

ArcLight Cinemas Beach Cities 831 S. Nash St., El Segundo 310.607.9630 or arclightcinemas.com

AMC Marina Dine-In 13455 Maxella Ave #270, Marina del Rey 310.827.7955 or dinein.amctheatres.com

BEST HAIR SALON

Favorites: Bay Cities Vet-Marina del Rey

BEST COFFEE SHOP 8751 La Tijera Blvd., Westchester 310.645.7315 or laxcoffeeco.com

BEST VETERINARIAN Westchester Veterinary Center

Multiple locations, CVS.com

BEST CATERER 193 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.821.0018 or salernobeach.com This full-service Italian Restaurant also boasts a full catering menu perfect for any party or community event.

categories

Favorites: The Greasy Wiener Food Truck thegreasywiener.com

Head To Toe

Lobsta Truck

6310 W. 89th St. A, Westchester 310.670.5853 Whether you need a haircut, color or style, the team at Head To Toe will work to make your hair look fabulous.

lobstatruck.com

Favorites: Avenue Hair

8622 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.577.2211 or bluediamondspa.com Relax at this day spa with a facial, massage or body treatment and leave feeling renewed and rejuvenated.

4220 Lincoln Blvd., Marina del Rey 310.822.0700

John Peri Salon

BEST SPA Blue Diamond Spa

Favorites: Cinemark Howard Hughes

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

Favorites: Massage Envy

6081 Center Dr., Westchester 310.568.3394 or cinemark.com

BEST FOOD TRUCK

Christine Valmy Salon

The Grilled Cheese Truck thegrilledcheesetruck.com

Page 18 • August 2014

Locate this truck at any local food truck event and be transported to cheese Nirvana.

BEST OF 2014

4770 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.776.3113 or massageenvy.com 4722 Lincoln Blvd., Marina del Rey 310.821.8892 or cvalmymdr.com

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

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BEST OF 2014

August 2014 • Page 19

BEST GROCERY

Favorites: Manhattan Village Mall

Trader Joe’s Westchester

3200 Sepulveda Blvd., Manhattan Beach 310.546.5556 or shopmanhattanvillage.com

8645 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.338.9238 or traderjoes.com It may be small, but it’s always packed with community members looking to fill their carts with items like Trader O’s, bagged veggies and “Two-Buck Chuck.”

Favorites: Bristol Farms Westchester 8448 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.410.0593 or bristolfarms.com

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

BEST RETAILER Target Multiple locations, target.com

“Little” Vons

Favorites: Playa Pharmacy

6571 W. 80th St., Westchester 310.641.9423 or vons.com

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

TJ Maxx-Westchester

BEST FLORIST

8621 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.670.7098 or tjmaxx.com

Flowers By Felicia

BEST MOM AND POP

8428 Pershing Dr., Playa del Rey 310.305.1200 or flowersbyfeliciapdr.com Celebrating its 25th year in business, Flowers

By Felicia creates beautiful arrangements fitting for any occasion. The Playa del Rey shop also has a Best Of gift shop and coffee house.

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 GIFT SHOP Flowers by Felicia 8428 Pershing Dr., Playa del Rey 310.305.1200 or flowersbyfeliciapdr.com

Favorites: Guilded Cage 8917 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.641.7850 or westchestermhg.org

Petals ‘N’ Wax 13432 Maxella Ave., Marina del Rey 310.305.8883 or petalsnwax.com

BEST PLACE TO PAMPER YOUR PET Centinela Feed & Pet Supply 8655 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.342.0239 or centinelafeed.com This Westchester location has everything you need to pamper your four-legged family members, from treats, toys and grooming supplies.

Favorites: Petco Westchester

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

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

Westchester Watch Works 630 N. Sepulveda Blvd., El Segundo 310.640.1074 or westchesterwatchworks. com

BEST JEWELRY/ WATCH STORE Westchester Watch Works 630 N. Sepulveda Blvd., El Segundo 310.640.1074 or westchesterwatchworks.com In its new El Segundo location, Westchester Watch Works remains a reader favorite thanks to a large selection of watches and jewelry, great customer service and extensive knowledge on watch repair.

Favorites: Blue Diamond Jewelers 8622 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.577.2211or bluediamondjeweler.com

Universal Jewelers 4718 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.301.9797 or universaljewelersmfg.com

BEST FINANCIAL SERVICE PROVIDER Bank of America Multiple locations, bankofamerica.com

Favorites: Chase

Wagz

Multiple locations, chase.com

8125 W. Manchester Ave., Playa del Rey 310.306.1090 or Wagzinc.com

Wells Fargo

BEST SHOPPING CENTER

BEST PET GROOMER

Westfield Culver City

8125 W. Manchester Ave., Playa del Rey 310.306.1090 or wagzinc.com Playa del Rey’s Wagz offers full-service grooming services for dogs and cats, as well as boarding and day-care.

Page 20 • August 2014

BEST OF 2014

8430 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.670.0156

The Pet Wash

BEST HOTEL/INN

100 W Imperial Ave., El Segundo 310.648.7599 or thepetwash.com

BEST AUTO SHOP Playa West Automotive 8145 W Manchester Ave., Playa del Rey 310.822.9115 or playawestautomotive.com Playa West Automotive has taken our Best Of title three years in a row. The family-run business prides itself in giving their customers great, reliable service.

The Ritz-Carlton Marina del Rey 4375 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.1700 or ritzcarlton.com This luxurious hotel located in the heart of Marina del Rey boasts 304 rooms each with their own private balcony and L.A.’s only waterfront pool and whirlpool.

Favorites: Custom Hotel 8639 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.645.0400 or customhotel.com

Inn at Playa del Rey

6575 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.568.8930

435 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.574.1920 or innatplayadelrey.com

Loyola Automotive

BEST CAR WASH

8314 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.670.0822 or loyolaautomotive.com

BEST ATTORNEY David Voss, Voss, Silverman & Braybrooke LLP

Westchester Hand Wash 8801 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.348.9677 or westchesterhandwash.com Specializing in hand washes and detailing services, guests can shop at nearby retailers while Westchester Hand Wash makes their cars sparkle.

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: El Segundo 5-Minute Car Wash

Favorites: Matthew Swanlund

BEST PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

1800 Century Park, Los Angeles 310.315.8282 or mcguirewoods.com

BEST CLEANERS Spring Cleaners

Wagz

Rowena’s Cleaners

8320 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.649.1585

Val Velasco

Multiple locations, wellsfargo.com

Favorites:

Barks and Bubbles Pet Grooming

Favorites: Frio Automotive

8801 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.645.7199 or petco.com

6000 Sepulveda Blvd., Culver City 310.390.5073 or westfield.com/culvercity With stores like Macy’s, Target, Nordstrom Rack, Best Buy and the Disney Store, Westfield Culver City takes this year’s Best Of title.

BEST ATTORNEY David Voss–Voss, Silverman & Braybrooke, LLP

8636-D S. Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.670.8867 Customer service, competitive pricing and a job well done put this Westchester dry cleaners at the top of our 2014 Best Of List.

Favorites: Triangle Cleaners 6242 W. 87th St., Westchester 310.670.9351

125 N. Sepulveda Blvd., El Segundo 310.535.5555

Playa Vista Car Wash 6900 S. Centinela Ave., Culver City 310.915.0303 or playavistacarwash.com

Drollinger Properties 8929 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Ste 130, Westchester 310.417.8048 or drollingerproperties.com Drollinger Properties is the oldest and largest property management firm in the Westchester Business District and remains dedicated to promoting a thriving Westchester.

Favorites: Decron Properties 6222 Wilshire Blvd. #400, Los Angeles 323.556.6600 or decronproperties.com

All County Beach Cities 8929 S. Sepulveda Blvd. #206, Westchester 310.216.4400 or allcountybeachcities.com

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

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SCHOOL & FAMILY

St. Anastasia School 7390 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.645.8816 or school.st-anastasia.org St. Anastasia Catholic School has educated and helped inspire its students for more than fifty years. Led by Principal Mike Muir, the school offers education for grades JK through 8.

Favorites: St. Bernard High School 9100 Falmouth Ave., Playa del Rey 310.823.4651 or stbernardhs.org

Visitation Catholic School 8740 Emerson Ave., Westchester 310.645.6620 or visitationschool.org

BEST PRIVATE SCHOOL St. Anastasia School 7390 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.645.8816 or school.st-anastasia.org

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

Visitation Catholic School 8740 Emerson Ave., Westchester 310.645.6620 or visitationschool.org

BEST PUBLIC SCHOOL WISH Charter School 6550 W. 80th St., Westchester 310.642.9474 or wishcharter.org Taking home the honors for both Best Public School and Best Charter School, WISH has built a reputation for strong parent involvement and fostering an environment for “caring and belonging.”

Favorites: Kentwood Elementary School 8401 Emerson Ave., Westchester

310.670.8977 or kentwoodes.org

PHOTO BY MARIE TEAGARDIN.

BEST PRIVATE SCHOOL (RELIGIOUS)

categories

Paseo Del Rey Elementary 7751 Paseo Del Rey, Playa del Rey 310.823.2356 or paseomagnet-lausd-ca.schoolloop.com

.

BEST CHARTER SCHOOL WISH Charter School 6550 W. 80th St., Westchester 310.642.9474 or wishcharter.org

Favorites: Open Magnet Charter 5540 W 77th St., Westchester 310.568.0735 or opencharter.org

Westchester Secondary Charter

BEST PUBLIC SCHOOL WISH CHARTER

8820 Sepulveda Eastway, Westchester 310.216.6800 or westchestercharter.org

BEST PRESCHOOL Covenant Preschool 6323 W. 80th St., Westchester 310.670.5758 or covla.org Since 1963, Covenant Presbyterian Church has sponsored Covenant Preschool, offering half-day programs aimed at children between 2 and 5.

Favorites: Children of Our Savior Preschool 6705 W. 77th St., Westchester 310.215.3166 or oursaviorwestchester.com/preschool

Westchester Lutheran Preschool 7831 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.670.5422 or wlcs.org

BEST UNIVERSITY Loyola Marymount University 1 LMU Dr., Westchester 310.338.2700 or lmu.edu Founded in 1911, the 142-acre campus has become part of the fabric of the community and has been rated one of the most beautiful and green campuses in America.

Favorites: Otis College of Art and Design 9045 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.665.6800 or otis.edu

University of California Los Angeles 405 Hilgard Ave., Los Angeles 310.825.4321 or ucla.edu

BEST PLACES FOR KIDS’ CLASSES Otis College of Art and Design 9045 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.665.6800 or otis.edu Otis isn’t just for college students or adults looking to work on their artistic skills or get a degree. The college holds a variety of classes, workshops and camps geared towards kids that will help inspire their creative sides.

Favorites: Musical Beginnings

310.641.8518 or musicalbeginnings.org

REAL Creative Space 6207 W. 87th St., Westchester 310.645.7325 or realcreativespace.com

BEST CHILDCARE PROVIDER LMU Childcare Center 1 LMU Dr., #1000, Westchester 310.258.8900 or admin.lmu.edu/lmucc This non-profit on LMU’s campus is dedicated to providing high-quality child care for those 6 weeks to 5 years of age.

Favorites: Children of Our Savior Preschool 6705 W. 77th St., Westchester 310.215.3166 or oursaviorwestchester.com

Urbansitter.com urbansitter.com

6607 W. 80th St., Westchester

GREATER

EXPECTATIONS

Visit Westside Neighborhood School, the top choice of families who won’t settle for less.

Upcoming Admission Presentations & Tours Thursday, Tuesday, Tuesday, October 9 October 21 October 28 Presentations 9:30am-12pm. Reservations required. Please RSVP to the admission office at 310.574.8650 or admissions@wnsk8.com. (Parents only, please.)

DK-8 Independent Day School DK-

5401 Beethoven St., 5 Los Angeles, CA 90066 Lo 310.574.8650 www.wnsk8.com 310.

31 0 57 CA and WASC CAI CAIS W Accredited

Page 22 • August 2014

BEST OF 2014

Member of NAIS

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

BEST FAMILY ACTIVITY

BEST PLACE FOR A KID’S BIRTHDAY

Bike Riding at the Beach

Scooter’s Jungle

When it comes to family time, our readers voted spending time biking at the beach as their top pick.

606 Hawaii St., El Segundo 310.848.1380 or scootersjungle.com The indoor gym with two play arenas has a variety of birthday packages for kids 1 and up.

Favorites: Concerts or Movies in the Park at Playa Vista playavista.com

Hanging Out at the Beach

Favorites: Bowling Alley Dave & Buster’s Westchester 6081 Center Dr., Westchester 310.846.9950 or daveandbusters.com

Thank you to everyone who voted in this year’s Best Of Poll!

Congratulations to our iPad and gift card winners: l. Stavnes and Ellen Levine!

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

BEST OF 2014

August 2014 • Page 23

COMMUNITY

BEST WEEKEND HANGOUT

BEST CHARITY EVENT

Playa del Rey

Race for Success

Whether it’s a trip to the beach or getting a bite to eat at one of the area’s restaurants, Playa del Rey is the place to be once the weekend rolls around.

raceforsuccess5k.wordpress.com This annual spring race has raised tens of thousands of dollars for local schools and is held on the campus of LMU. Runners of all ages can participate and attendees can enjoy an after-race expo featuring local businesses.

Favorites: Dockweiler Beach Fisherman’s Village

BEST PARK Sports Park at Playa Vista 13196 W. Bluff Creek Dr., Playa Vista playavista.com With 19 parks, and 12 more on the way, Playa Vista is known for its open spaces. This year, its Sports Park comes in number one with our readers.

Favorites: Burton Chase Park 13650 Mindanao Way, Marina del Rey 310.305.9595

Westchester Park 7000 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.670.7473

BEST VIEW LMU Bluffs 1 LMU Dr., Westchester On a clear day, LMU is a great place to view Los Angeles from the Marina in the west to the city to the north and east.

Favorites: Baldwin Hills Overlook Playa del Rey Bluffs

categories BEST WEEKEND HANGOUT Playa del Rey

Favorites: Jet to Jetty benefiting Airport Marina Counseling Service jettojetty.com

Teacher Mini Grants benefiting local schools playasunrise.org

BEST NON-PROFIT Airport Marina Counseling Service 7891 La Tijera Blvd., Westchester 310.670.1410 or airportmarina.org This Westchester-based non-profit has been providing free and low-cost mental health services for more than fifty years. In addition to one-on-one counseling, the non-profit also holds workshops to deal with such topics as anxiety, relationships and aging.

Favorites: Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary

santamonicapier.org Restaurants, an amusement park and the chance for a romantic walk on the boardwalk make the Santa Monica Pier a great place for a date.

Favorites: Hornblower Cruises & Events 13755 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey 310.301.6000 or hornblower.com

ArcLight Cinemas Beach Cities 831 S. Nash St., El Segundo 310.607.9630 or arclightcinemas.com

playasunrise.org

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

BEST PLACE TO GO ON A DATE

BEST NATURE SPOT The Beach Favorites: Ballona Wetlands The Bluffs

FROM THE $900,000s

Bluff Creek Dr., Playa Vista Located next to Playa Vista Elementary School, this 1.7 acre park was designed to help visitors learn about the Ballona Watershed and features a Native American “Ki” dwelling.

Favorites: Little Library Book Drops Take a book and leave a book at these “Little Libraries” spread throughout the community.

Local Trails

All photos by Edith unless otherwise noted.

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PlayaVista.com Page 24 • August 2014

Ballona Discovery Park

Thank you to our Best Of Photographer Edith Levandoski! edithlphotography.com

Santa Monica Pier

Playa Vista puts you right where you want to be and close to everything else. You can walk or bike to places that vary from shopping to creative work spaces, dining out to working out, entertainment to live events, all from your doorstep.

BEST HIDDEN GEM

Plans, pricing, square footage, products, amenities and community/neighborhood information are subject to change. © 2014 Playa Vista. All rights reserved.

BEST OF 2014

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

BEST PARK Sports Park at Playa Vista PHOTO COURTESY PLAYA VISTA.

BEST FARMERS’ MARKET Westchester Farmers’ Market

BEST PLACE TO VOLUNTEER WISH Charter School 6550 W. 80th St., Westchester 310.642.9474 or wishcharter.org

Favorites: Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary Club Playasunrise.org

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

BEST FOOD TRUCK EVENT Westchester First Fridays 87th St. & Westchester Triangle, Westchester 310.670.3258 Every first Friday of the month, head on down to Westchester’s 87th Street for food trucks, live music and an open house atmosphere from the

businesses. The street is closed off and plenty of tables and chairs are available for dining and people watching.

Favorites: Concerts in the Park at Playa Vista

Favorites: First Fridays Abbot Kinney

Visitation Food Truck Friday Nights

abbotkinney1stfridays.com

playavista.com

BEST DENTIST Westchester Pediatric

8740 Emerson Ave., Westchester 310.645.6620 or visitationschool.org

Visitation Food Truck Friday Nights 8740 Emerson Ave., Westchester 310.645.6620 or visitationschool.org

BEST COMMUNITY EVENT Fourth of July Parade 310.645.5151 or laxcoastal.com Arguably the community’s largest event, thousands of spectators turn out each year to help celebrate the Fourth of July by watching the parade presented by the LAX Coastal Chamber.

This year, the parade celebrated its 15th anniversary with the theme “Love My America.”

BEST FARMERS’ MARKET Westchester Farmers Market 7000 W. Manchester Ave, Westchester 310.582.5850 or westchesterfarmersmarket.com Every Wednesday, rain or shine, stop by this Westchester gem for all your fruits and veggie needs. Vendors also sell coffee, salsa, bread, plants and jewelry.

Favorites: Playa Vista Farmers Market 6500 Seabluff Dr., Playa Vista 310.600.8252 or playavistafm.com

El Segundo Farmers Market Main St. and Holly Ave., El Segundo

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

BEST OF 2014

August 2014 • Page 25

HEALTH & WELLNESS

BEST OPTOMETRIST Del Rey Optometry

BEST YOGA OR SPECIALTY FITNESS STUDIO LiveYoga Wellness

BEST YOGA OR SPECIALTY FITNESS STUDIO LiveYoga Wellness 6700 W. 83rd St., Westchester 310.835.6700 or liveyogawellness.com This Westchester studio offers a variety of Yoga classes from gentle, mixed level flow and therapeutic. Great natural light and caring instructors help create the perfect atmosphere to help find your inner yogi.

Favorites: Physical Therapy Care 6214 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.348.8464 or ptcare.com

Yoga Vista 13020 Pacific Promenade #3, Playa Vista 310.862.0444 or yogavistastudio.com

BEST OPTOMETRIST Del Rey Optometry 8511 Pershing Dr., Playa del Rey 310.577.6401 or delreyoptometry.com The team at Del Rey Optometry is dedicated to the “science of eyecare and beauty of eyewear.”

Using state of the art technology, patients receive top-of-the-line care whether they need eyeglasses or treatment for eye conditions.

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

Dr. Jane Semel at Semel Vision Care 390 N. Sepulveda Blvd. #1100, El Segundo 310.641.1700 or semelvision.com

throats and minor burns.

BEST DOCTOR Dr. James Richards 6222 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.670.1840 or manchester-medical.com

Favorites: Cedar Sinai Urgent Care 8501 Wilshire Blvd. #150, Beverly Hills 310.248.7000 or cedars-sinai.edu

Kaiser Urgent Care

Favorites: Dr. Paymon Banafshe (tie) 6222 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.670.1840 or manchester-medical.com

Multiple locations, southerncalifornia.kaiserpermanente.org

4644 Lincoln Blvd., Marina del Rey 310.821.4100

BEST PERSONAL TRAINER

Dr. Peter Mikhail

Jeff Blair at SoCal Sport and Fitness

Dr. Sheikh Firoz (tie)

8610 S Sepulveda Blvd #208, Westchester 310.642.0100

BEST HOSPITAL Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center 757 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles 310.825.9111 or uclahealth.org The Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center was recently ranked number one in California and number five in the nation by U.S. News and World Report, so it’s no surprise our readers’ voted this hospital as their go-to spot for medical help.

Favorites: Cedar Sinai Hospital

8939 S. Sepulveda Blvd. #111, Westchester 310.497.0863 or jeffblairfitness.com Jeff Blair and his team at SoCal Sport and Fitness are ready to help their clients achieve their workout goals no matter their age or fitness level. Combining weight training, nutritional advice and a supportive community, clients consistently reach their fitness goals.

Favorites: Bob Weaver at Crossfit Aviators 6216 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.465.9163 or crossfitaviator.net

Paul Horn at Horn Strength & Conditioning 6204 Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.922.2249 or hornstrength.com

8700 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles 310.423.3277 or cedars-sinai.edu

St. John’s Health Center 2121 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica 310.829.5511 or newstjohns.org

BEST URGENT CARE Playa Vista Medical Center 6020 S. Seabluff Dr., Playa Vista 310.862.0400 or pvmedcenter.com When you need a walk-in clinic, Playa Vista Medical Center offers quick and friendly service for such conditions as ear infections, sore

categories

BEST NEIGHBORHOOD GYM Westchester Family YMCA 8015 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.670.4316 or ymcala.org/westchester Whether you want a place to workout, find camping buddies or participate in sports, the Westchester Family YMCA is a community hub encouraging healthy living and social responsibility.

Favorites: LA Fitness Westchester 8601 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.846.0070 or lafitness.com

Spectrum Howard Hughes 6833 Park Terrace, Westchester 310.216.3060 or spectrumclubs.com

BEST PEDIATRICIAN Dr. Amy Shapiro 8725 La Tijera Blvd., Westchester 310.670.1455 or westchesterpeds.com All three of our honorees in this year’s Best Pediatrician category hail from Westchester Pediatrics. The practice prides itself in providing family-oriented care for their patients from birth to 18 years of age.

Favorites: Dr. Danelle Fisher 8725 La Tijera Blvd., Westchester 310.670.1455 or westchesterpeds.com

Dr. Daniel Lau 8725 La Tijera Blvd., Westchester 310.670.1455 or westchesterpeds.com

BEST DENTIST Westchester Pediatric Dentistry 8540 S. Sepulveda Blvd. #710, Westchester 310.216.5754 or smilewestchester.com Doctors Burnett and Sreenivasan make every effort to make dental care a pleasant, relaxed and fun experience for kids, helping prepare them for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Favorites: Del Rey Dental 8410 Pershing Dr., Playa del Rey 310.822.2011 or delreydental.com

Dr. Kaz Tomimatsu 8930 S. Sepulveda Blvd. Ste. 211, Westchester 310.641.4074

Thank you for voting us Best Yoga Studio!

CLASSES

WORKSHOPS

SEMINARS

6700 West 83rd Street (Entrance on Dunbarton) Los Angeles, CA 90045 phone: 310-835-6700

visit our website for schedule of classes:

liveyogawellness.com Page 26 • August 2014

BEST OF 2014

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

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

BEST OF 2014

August 2014 • Page 27

Proud to be a part of the Westchester/Playa Del Rey Community

Playa Del Oro East

Playa Del Oro West

Playa P l P Pacifica ifi

8601 Lincoln Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90045

7270 Manchester Ave Los Angeles, CA 90045

7600 Manchester Ave Playa Del Rey, CA 90293

“Favorite Property Management Company”

Playa P l M Marina i

Shops at Del Oro

Airport A i t SSpectrum t

12427 W. Jefferson Los Angeles, CA 90066

8601 Lincoln Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90045

5757-5767 Century Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90045

www.decronproper es.com Page 28 • August 2014

BEST OF 2014

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

TheHTN.com PHOTO COURTESY SUSIECAKES.

Cupcakes galore. SusieCakes Marina del Rey opened to much fanfare on Saturday, July 19 and guests were treated to complimentary desserts and face painting. The American homestyle bakery is known for its cakes, cupcakes (pictured at right) and rotating seasonal menu.

They also stock cookies, bars and seasonal pies. SusieCakes Marina del Rey is located in the Marina Square Shopping Center at 4714 Lincoln Blvd. in Marina del Rey. Visit them at susiecakes.com/marinadelrey or call (310) 742-2253.

Transaero and Aeroflot to Moscow, Korean Air to Seoul and American Airlines to Sao Paulo.

For the month of June, domestic traffic at LAX rose 5.7 percent.

International traffic increased 9.4 percent in June, as well.

According to airport officials, June was the tenth month in a row of increasing passenger volume.

Asset Protection. CarenetLA, a home caregiver agency, is hosting a free asset protection workshop on Thursday, August 21 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

The workshop is aimed at adults 50 to 65 years old and will discuss topics like what is covered by Medicare after retirement; making sure your estate is in order; how to protect yourself and your family from the costs of home care; and long-term care insurance.

The event will be held at the LAX Coastal Chamber meeting room, located at 9100 S. Sepulveda Blvd. Suite 210 in Westchester.

Refreshments will be served.

For more information and to RSVP, visit assetpreserver.eventbrite.com.

We want to hear about your new business or your business’ recent success! If you have something to share about your business, email us at westchesterhometown@yahoo. com for a chance to be featured in our Business Section.

Passengers up at LAX during first part of 2014. LAX officials recently announced that total passengers during the first six months of 2014 rose 6.5 percent. While there was a 5.6 percent growth in domestic passengers last year, international traffic grew nine percent in 2014.

Air cargo tonnage levels stayed about the same during the first six months of this year compared to last year. Air mail tonnage decreased 1.3 percent in 2014. Freight is up slightly with 0.16 percent in 2014.

Airport officials attribute the passenger increase to the economy’s continuing improvement and to additional service on existing international routes by several U.S. and foreign air carriers, including Cathay Pacific to Hong Kong ,

Is it time for a change?

Property Management Solutions Offered by: The Matilla Group operty Owner,, havee seen our real estate signs around the commun commu Realty. Ourr family has been doing business in this area are since 1959. One segment of our business ss is property management. You may have seen our signs as wel Matilla Group Property Management.

Management We W want to o management solutions...If tions...If...you ...you are tired of the day da to day management of your building(s)...If...you .you are a tired t of phone calls from tenants....If...you just w less disturbances urbances and more mo free time for yourself. If this is you – please – think about out us! u We can professionally professio sio handle the stresses that go with ownership a management. management.

We manage 31 properties pro in this local area.

Our occupancy rati ratios are near 100%.

Most of our units are rented ted in less than 2 we Ourr landlords are very pleased with our performance.

Is the time right for you to make a change? nge? Would you like more information?

Then, please, go to our website’s home page at www.matillareal w.matillarealty.com and click on the property management tab. If you prefer to speak with h me directly, dire please call (310) 306-9005 or (310) 748-0574. I hope we can be of service. ice.

Sincerly, Steven Matilla Broker/Owner DRE Lic#: 00398688 225 Culver Blvd. • Playa del Rey, CA 90293 • Office (310) 305-8000 • www.MatillaRealty.com Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

August 2014 • Page 29

Calendar Ongoing monthly events: 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.

Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary Club Join the Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary Club at its Wednesday morning meeting at 7:15 a.m. at the Marina Club Restaurant, located at 4333 Admiralty Way, Center Tower, 3rd Floor 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, visit www. playasunrise.org or call (310) 4293808.

Life story writing class Thinking about your life story?

Learn a simple method to recall and then write your memories.

The Life Story Writing Group meets every Wednesday from 10:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. in the YMCA Annex, located at 8020 Alverstone Ave. in Westchester. The donation to the YMCA is $12 a year.

For information, please call Mary Sage at (310) 397-3967.

Speakers by the Sea Toastmasters Speakers By the Sea Toastmasters Club will help you improve your skills for public speaking.

Meetings are held every Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 12000 Vista del Mar; Conf. Room 230A in Playa del Rey. For more info, please call (310) 5592834 August events: Variations of a Whole Art Opening Otis College of Art and Design will present the exhibition “Variations of a Whole” through August 27 in its Bolsky Gallery.

Variations of a Whole is curated

by Otis alumna Jeseca Dawson and combines the work of thirteen artists from both undergraduate and graduate programs in Fine Arts and Public Practice.

The work allows the students to present their ideals and materials, as well as their desire to manifest meaningful forms of self-expression.

The show is meant to exemplify artists in the process of finding their own voice as they investigate identity, experimentation, social responsibility,

Page 30 • August 2014

TheHTN.com art theory and the tension between human and natural production.

The gallery is located on the school’s campus at 9045 Lincoln Blvd.

Parking is free and the hours of the studio are Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Thursdays 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday and Sundays from 12 to 4 p.m.

For more info. please call (310) 6656905.

Kentwood Players “Sordid Lives” Kentwood Players will present “Sordid Lives” by Del Shores through August 16. Performances will take place on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. with Sunday matinées at 2 p.m. at the Westchester Playhouse, located at 8301 Hindry Ave. in Westchester. The production is directed by Kirk Larson and produced by Lori Marple-Pereslete and Virginia Mekkelson by special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc. The dark comedy focuses on a colorful family from a small Texas town who must come to grips with the accidental death of the elderly family matriarch during her clandestine meeting in a seedy motel room with a much younger, married neighbor. The woman’s family must deal with their own demons while preparing for what could be an embarrassing funeral. This play is filled with adult situations and language.

Featured in the cast are Greg Abbott, Samantha Barrios, Elizabeth A. Bouton, Harold Dershimer, Kip Hogan, Alison Mattiza, Eduardo Mora, Cherry Norris, Eddie “Ed” O’Brien, Dave Parke, Catherine Rahm, Michael Sandidge and Susan Stangl.

Tickets are $20 with a $2 discount for seniors, students and servicemen.

To purchase tickets by phone, please call (310) 645-5156 during box office hours and online at www. kentwoodplayers.org.

Fundraiser for local family On Saturday, August 9 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., join friends of the Godschalk family for a fundraiser. The event will be held in the parking lot of Hope Chapel del Rey, located at 7299 W. Manchester Ave. in Westchester.

This will be a fun community event supporting and celebrating a local family in need. Alexis Godschalk passed away suddenly on April 21 at the age of 39, leaving behind his wife Fiona and three small children.

On August 9. Alexis would have turned 40, and organizers want to show support for his family by holding the fundraiser in celebration of his life.

There will be bounce houses, games, face painting, food, opportunities to give and more!

Let it Go Workshop Los Angeles Arts Collective (LAAC) is hosting a very special “Let It Go” workshop designed and hosted by Lockey Maisonneuve. The program, held Sunday, August 17, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m, will be the first time this successful event will be held in California.

Over the three-hour workshop, participants will alternately write, move through yoga poses, share stories and learn breathing and meditation techniques to help move past what is holding you back.

Attendees can expect to “talk, laugh, and journal about our experiences.”

No previous yoga experience is required, and anyone age 16 or older is welcome to attend.

Registration is available online at la-arts-collective.com/letitgo, or in person by paying the $45 Workshop Fee at the studio’s front desk. Participants are asked to bring a journal, and may bring their own yoga mat or borrow one from LAAC. Los Angeles Arts Collective is located at 8939 South Sepulveda Blvd. in Westchester, on the corner of Sepulveda and Airport Way. Movies and Concerts in the Park at Playa Vista Visit Playa Vista in August for a movie or concert in the park. The community’s last concert of the season will take place on August 17 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. N’Demand will be playing the latest pop hits and dance music in Concert Park, located at the corner of Runway Road and Pacific Promenade.

Visitors can park for free at the corner of Seabluff Drive and Discovery Creek at the Shops at Playa Vista.

Friday, August 8 Gravity will play at the Central Park Bandshell, located at the corner of Waterfront Drive and Lake Center Drive. Friday, August 15 Pitch Perfect will play at Concert Park.

Movies start at 8 p.m. with food trucks available for food purchase beginning at 5 p.m.

For more info, please visit playavista. com.

Cruise N’ Brews If you enjoy craft beer, join the LAX Young Professionals for their Second Annual Cruise N’ Brews event held in the Marina. Strictly for the twenty-one and older crowd, this Saturday, August 9 event will give attendees the chance to hop aboard a Hornblower Cruises and Events yacht and sail around the Marina, while sampling beers from more than 40 different boutique breweries. This event runs from noon to 4 p.m. Pretzel necklaces and tasting glasses will be provided to attendees and food will be available for purchase.

Tickets are $55 each and available by calling (310) 645-5151.

Gillis Volleyball Tournament The 44th annual Gillis Beach Volleyball invitational tournament will take place at Playa del Rey’s Dockweiler Beach Saturday, August 9 and Sunday, August 10.

The weekend-long tournament combines beach volleyball, costumes. camaraderie and community.

For more info, visit the gillis.com.

Midsummer Nights Dinner in the Garden The Emerson Avenue Community Garden will host its second annual Midsummer Night’s Dinner, a night filled with live music, community and food on Saturday, August 23 from 6 to 9 p.m. The appetizer and salad course will be made with the garden’s own organic vegetables. The event was rescheduled from July.

This is the garden’s largest fundraiser of the year and the proceeds go towards helping the garden’s programs.

Volunteers are also hosting Story time in the Garden for little ones and their caregivers every Tuesday at 10 a.m. through the summer.

The Emerson Avenue Community Garden is located on Emerson Ave. between 80th Street and 80th Place.

For more information, visit eacgc.org/ site.

Concert in the Park at Burton Chase Park Enjoy a concert in the park with the annual Marina del Rey Summer Concert Series. Take your pick of Symphonic Thursdays or Pop Saturdays, pack a blanket and a picnic and head on down to Burton Chase Park for weekly events through August starting at 7 p.m. On August 7 Yana Reznik will perform on piano; August 16 Roberta Flack will perform; August 21 Bernadette Peters and her 10-piece orchestra will perform and August 30Pacific Mambo Orchestra (Latin Jazz, Salsa) will perform.

Burton Chase Park is located at 13650 Mindanao Way in Marina del Rey. Parking is available in county parking lots or by taking the Beach Shuttle.

For more info on the events and parking, please visit marinadelrey. lacounty.gov.

Email us information about your Community Event!

1. Email us your event at westchesterhometown@yahoo. com 2. Our deadline for submissions is the 22nd of the month 3. Please include the date, time and contact info. Preference is given to free or low-cost community events with the most general appeal.

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

COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS

August Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

First Friday @ 6200 87th Street Sordid Lives @ Westchester Playhouse

1 Sordid Lives @ Westchester Playhouse

NCWP board meeting @ Westchester Community Room Gateway to Go! @ Crowne Plaza

Westchester Farmers’ Market @ Westchester Park Speakers by the Sea @ Playa del Rey

Beach Eats @ Mother’s Beach Marina del Rey Concert Series @ Burton Chase Park

Sordid Lives @ Westchester Playhouse Gravity @ Playa Vista Movies in the Park

Life story writing class @ YMCA Annex

3

4

Sordid Lives @ Westchester Playhouse

Gateway to Go! @ Crowne Plaza Story time in the garden @ Emerson Ave. Community Garden

The Gillis @ Dockweiler Beach

10

5

11

12

6 Westchester Farmers’ Market @ Westchester Park

Let it Go Workshop @ LA Arts Collective

Story time in the garden @ Emerson Ave. Community Garden

Westchester Farmers’ Market @ Westchester Park

Concert in the Park @ Playa Vista

Gateway to Go! @ Crowne Plaza

Speakers by the Sea @ Playa del Rey LMU Advisor Meeting @ Senior Center

17

18

19

20

Story time in the garden Westchester Farmers’ @ Emerson Ave. Market @ Community Garden Westchester Park

24/31

25

Gateway to Go! @ Crowne Plaza

Speakers by the Sea @ Playa del Rey

Senior Dance @ YMCA Annex

Life story writing class @ YMCA Annex

26

27

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

Sordid Lives @ Westchester Playhouse

2 Sordid Lives @ Westchester Playhouse Fundraiser for Godschalk Family @ Hope Chapel Del Rey Cruise N’ Brews @ Marina del Rey The Gillis @ Dockweiler Beach

7 Beach Eats @ Mother’s Beach

Speakers by the Sea @ Playa del Rey

13

Farmers Market @ Playa Vista

14 Beach Eats @ Mother’s Beach

8

9

Sordid Lives @ Westchester Playhouse

Sordid Lives @ Westchester Playhouse

Pitch Perfect @ Playa Vista

Marina del Rey Concert Series @ Burton Chase Park

15 Food Truck Friday Night @ Visitation

Marina del Rey Concert Series @ Burton Chase Park

16 Midsummer Night’s Dinner in the Garden @ Emerson Avenue Community Garden

Health Seminar @ Marina del Rey Hospital

21

22

Beach Eats @ Mother’s Beach

28

23 Marina del Rey Concert Series @ Burton Chase Park

29

30

August 2014 • Page 31

A Look Back at Westchester/Playa

By David J. “Duke” Dukesherer, Sr.

What’s in a name?

Most of us drive through our town with little care for the names of the streets that we traverse, although it has been a favorite subject of mine.

We know the streets surrounding Loyola Marymount University were named for Jesuit Colleges and Catholic Saints like Gonzaga, Fordham, Holy Cross, Creighton, Campion and Ignatius Loyola. And we know that many of the streets in southern Westchester were named for aviation pioneers and models of aircraft like Lilienthal, Bleriot, Jenny, Liberator, Interceptor, Will Rogers and Wiley Post. Many of the streets in Playa del Rey, particularly on the bluffs, were named for early pioneers and founders of what once was called Port Ballona like Rindge, Barbour, Gillis and Trask.

Several streets that intersect the town remind us of our rich Spanish and Mexican heritage, such as Sepulveda after a prominent “Californio,” La Tijera for its scissorlike shape and Vista Del Mar for its great view of the sea.

Arbor Vitae, which literally means, tree of life, was named for the hedges which once grew abundantly up and down that avenue. Manchester Avenue, California State Route 42, was at one time designated as State Route

10. It was renumbered in 1960 so as to eliminate confusion with nearby Interstate 10 or the Santa Monica Freeway.

Lincoln Boulevard was an extension of the Lincoln Highway, the first transcontinental highway for automobiles across the United States of America. The once stately road, that KCET called, “the ugliest road in Southern California,” begins in Santa Monica and ends at LAX. At the crest of Lincoln hill, looking north over The Ballona Wetlands, Playa Vista and out to the Santa Monica Mountains, is the loveliest view in town.

As I write this, Sandpiper Street in Playa del Rey, the only street to traverse the dunes over old Palisades Del Rey and Surfridge, is being secretly demolished, never to be open to automobile traffic again. The residents hated the street’s original name, Moscow Street, and they lobbied to have it renamed at the height of the Cold War, as a Kennedy era anti-Russian phobia swept the Nation.

You may not know that Truxton Avenue, namesake of one of the best restaurants in Westchester, was named for a relative of the Revolutionary War Commodore who spelled his name differently. At some point, Venice was to be named Truxton, but this is the stuff of another column.

TheHTN.com

Pershing Drive is named for General John Joseph “Black Jack” Pershing, a general officer in the United States Army who led the American Expeditionary Forces in World War I. Pershing is the only person to be promoted in his own lifetime to General of the Armies, the highest authorized rank in the United States Army, signifying service directly Will Rogers Street, named after the cowboy humorist (above under the president left), is located just north of LAX’s public parking lot C. Will Rogers St. branches northeast between Westchester Parkway Culver Boulevard is and Manchester Ave. where it is renamed Wiley Post Ave., named for Harry Culver, after Will Rogers’ friend and pilot (right), who was also killed Father of Culver City. in the plane crash that took Rogers’ life in 1935. This photo Culver played a vital role was taken on August 15,1935 shortly before they took off from a lagoon near Point Barrow, Alaska. in enticing film studio Courtesy of the author’s Westchester, California. bosses to move to his new town, and along with was built. Just to keep things militarily Fritz Burns, donated the land on which straight, Burns was a Captain in the Loyola University was built. He was U. S. Army during WWI. a sergeant in the U.S. Army during Century Boulevard, which the Spanish-American War and later terminates at the LAX passenger moved to the Philippines, where he terminals, runs from the east at Watts, served as a reporter for the Manila to the west at LAX, on what would be Times. A gifted orator, at one point, 100th Street, and hence the name.

Culver made over 600 speeches a year.

I wonder what Stetson Avenue was Saint Bernard Street is not only named for? I think that I will keep that named for the lone high school in under my hat.

Playa del Rey, but also takes its name Please email comments to: from Fritz “Bernard” Burns who dukepdr@gmail.com donated the land on which the campus

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

Page 32 • August 2014

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

SAVE THE DATE! “MISI” Marina Women’s Minimally Invasive Surgery Institute cordially invites you to attend a women’s health seminar featuring Dr. David Ghozland

Topic:

The latest advances in minimally invasive gynecologic surgeries Thursday, August 21st, 2014 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Marina Del Rey Hospital Playa Conference Room 4650 Lincoln Blvd, Marina del Rey, CA 90292 Snacks and beverages will be provided.

FREE Parking

RSVP Call 1(844) MISI-4-YOU or register online via MarinaHospital.com Dr. David Ghozland is a board certified OB/GYN at Marina Del Rey Hospital. As a Gynecological Surgeon and a member of the American Laparoscopic Surgeon Association, Dr. Ghozland is skilled in the latest laparoscopic procedures, and is trained to perform advanced Robotic Gynecological Surgery via the daVinci Robot. He gained a reputation for being on the leading edge of Gynecological Surgery and Minimally Invasive procedures for bleeding, fibroids and urinary incontinence. Dr. Ghozland gained expertise in obstetrics and gynecology during his residency at the New York Medical College at St. Vincent’s Medical Center.

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

August 2014 • Page 33

Summer of art (continued) (Continued from page 12) through drawing, painting, printmaking, collage, mixed media, digital photography and sculpture.

Through the Fine Arts Program, the Boys & Girls Club also brings its innovative Fine Arts Studio programming to its partner school sites at Coeur d’Alene Elementary School, Mark Twain Middle School and Venice High School.

“We offer a varied, progressive and challenging visual arts program,” said Eduardo Marquez, Art Director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Venice. “The cognitive skills young artists gain help them with their schoolwork. Art programs build selfesteem and provide a positive outlet for creativity and self-expression.”

Club members with the talent and desire to hone their skills and pursue career options in this field are connected to professional artists that provide guidance and mentoring.

Through Artists for Hire, a project inspired by a Boys & Girls Club volunteer, events held throughout Los Angeles connect young artists with art lovers, provide them with exposure and enable them to sell their pieces.

A talented artist, Zapata could not afford to attend the Summer of Art at Otis College to enhance his skills, but Playa Vista/Brookfield Residential stepped up to the plate to fund a $3,500 scholarship.

“We were pleased to help Victor explore his passion,” said Sibyl Buchanan of Brookfield Residential.

Lions Club Honorees. Members of The Venice-Marina-LAX Lions Club were recently honored for their philanthropic work in the community. The honorees and their awards included: Lions International Foundation-Melvin Jones Fellowship award, Mary Ellen Cassman; Lions

Camp Foundation-Donald Banker Fellowship, Robert Hay and John Mills; Lions Low Vision FoundationGold Award, Thomas Winfrey; Lions Mobile Screening Unit-Gold Award, Jann Brauer and Venice-Marina-LAX Lions Club’s Lion of the Year, Sibyl Buchanan.

Little League Champions.

Congratulations to the Westchester Little League for bringing home three district championship titles!

The 9/10 year-old team; the 10/11 year-old team and the 11/12 yearold team took home the titles in July

before moving on to the Sectionals, where despite a strong showing, they were defeated in that round of play. Pictured: The 9/10 year-old team pose for a team photo. PHOTO COURTESY ELLEN FAUSTINE.

Zapata’s drawing was on display at the final art exhibit.

“Creativity is something that permeates every field, and exposing young people to art and design plays a critical role in helping them reach their full potential regardless of which field they choose.”

Summer of Art courses are taught by award-winning instructors who are practicing professionals, many of whom teach in Otis’ undergraduate and graduate programs.

At the end of the program, a final exhibition of the students’ best work was displayed throughout the campus, giving participants the experience of being part of a gallery show with peers.

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

Favorite Community Event 2012 - 2013 - 2014

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

August 2014 • Page 37

In Pictures Thousands of community members lined Loyola Boulevard to celebrate Independence Day at the LAX Coastal Chamber’s 15th Annual Fourth of July Parade.

This year’s theme was “Love My America” and parade participants were asked to express what America means to them. Fifty floats and marching groups participated in this year’s event.

Entries were judged at the start of the parade by chamber chairman Kelly King; chamber honorary mayor Rikki Barker and Nancy McClinch from Decron Properties, a parade sponsor.

Floats were judged in the categories of “Best Overall,” “Best in Relation to Theme” and “Chairman’s Choice.”

Judges considered how much time and effort was spent on the floats; use of color; adherence to theme; and the overall feel of the entry.

This year’s winners included Westchester Lutheran Church and School for Best Overall Float; Emerson Avenue Community Garden for Best in Relation to Theme and Otis College of

Page 38 • August 2014

TheHTN.com Art and Design for Chairman’s Choice.

Other standouts this year included Wright Steam Magnet’s scienceinspired float; the Royal Knights Regiment marching band and The Game Sports Bar and Grill.

It was Westchester Lutheran Church and School’s third time in a row taking home the “Best Overall” title. This year’s float was a tribute to the freedom to dream and turning those dreams into reality. The float featured a young boy in a “Radio Flyer” wagon with the dream of flying into space.

Emerson Avenue Community Garden’s float was a tribute to the American garden and featured a wheelbarrow-toting drill team.

It was Otis College of Art and Design’s first time participating in the parade. Their entry, designed by students from the college’s Integrated Learning Class, sought to bring awareness to protecting animals and the group was joined by a local rescue group adoptandshop.org.

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

August 2014 • Page 39

NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL OF WESTCHESTER / PLAYA

Attend NCWP Committee Meetings

Airport Relations Meets as needed Please check website for time and location

The Neighborhood Council of Westchester/Playa has eight standing committees that discuss various topics of interest to our community.

To learn about these issues in more depth, please take the time to attend our committee meetings and let your voice be heard.

Community Services Meets as needed Please check website for time and location

BOARD MEETING First Tuesday at 6:30 p.m.

Community Room @ Westchester Municipal Building 7166 W Manchester Ave. Government Affairs Third Monday at 6:30 p.m.

Del Rey Hills Church, 8505 Saran Dr., in Playa del Rey Planning & Land Use Third Tuesday at 6:30 p.m.

Community Room @ Westchester Municipal Building 7166 W Manchester Ave.

Budget and Finance Meets as needed Please check website for time and location

Education Fourth Wednesday at 6:30 p.m.

Community Room @ Westchester Municipal Building 7166 W Manchester Ave. Outreach Meets as needed Generally Fourth Friday at 9 a.m.

Community Room @ Westchester Municipal Building 7166 W Manchester Ave. Please check website for time and location

meet your new board members The following board members were elected in the May 18, 2014 election and are new to the board: At-Large Representative GARRETT SMITH .

Residential District 5 ERIN C. HANSON

Residential District 1 MICHELE COOLEY STRICKLAND

Residential District 9 DAVID OLIVER

Residential District 13 YVONNE FOKGUNDERSEN

LAWA Representative HAROLD JOHNSON

Public Safety Meets as needed Please check website for time and location

Residential District 3 FRED W. SMITH

Residential District 11 TIM O’CONNELL

Senior Citizen Director JOHN RUHLEN

Thank You Sibyl Buchanan Sibyl Buchanan, an original member of the Neighborhood Council of Westchester/Playa board and member of the committee that founded the Neighborhood Council, has announced her retirement and is moving to Tennessee. Her contributions to the Neighborhood Council will be sorely missed. We wish her well in this new chapter of her life and thank her for her many contributions during her time on the Neighborhood Council.

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