Westchester/Playa Hometown News January 2025 edition by Westchester/Playa del Rey HomeTown News

A LOOK INSIDE THIS MONTH'S HTN

Cantalini’s celebrates 25 years in Playa del Rey 04

Developments may shape business district 14

LOOK INSIDE THIS MONTH'S HTN

Bike shop brings micromobility to Westchester 18

5 Questions With... 22

Make 2025 your year to get involved in community 26

HOMETOWN STAFF/CONTRIBUTORS

Stephanie Davis, Publisher

HOMETOWN STAFF/CONTRIBUTORS

Shanee Edwards, Contributing Writer

Jeff Blair, Contributing Writer

Zsuzsi Steiner, Photos

Robert Higgins, Photos

ABOUT THE HOMETOWN NEWS

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, including The Book Jewel, Westchester Family YMCA, Playa Pharmacy, Loyola Village Library, Playa Vista Library, Truxton’s American Bistro and Cantalini’s Salerno Beach.

CONNECT WITH THE HTN:

Mailing Address: 8939 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Ste. 110 #745 Westchester, CA 90045

Email: westchesterhometown@yahoo.com

Website: thehtn.com

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Story ideas & Advertising: westchesterhometown@yahoo.com

Front page: The Cantalini’s Salerno Beach team poses in front of the Culver Blvd. restaurant to celebrate 25 years of serving the Playa del Rey community. Photo by Zsuzsi Steiner

The Westchester Town Center BID is home to great businesses, restaurants, retail and services providers! Check them out for all your shopping needs!

Please make “Shop Local” your mantra for 2025– it’s not just a slogan, it helps keep the businesses we love thriving!

cantalini’s

celebrates 25 years in Playa del ReY

By Shanee Edwards

n the active, beachside community of Playa del Rey, Cantalini’s Salerno Beach stands as an inviting monument to history, family and home-cooked Italian food. Lisa Schwab (or as her family would call her Lisetta Maria), the big-hearted community heroine behind the beloved Italian eatery, shares her family story that led to the restaurant we’ve loved for two-and-a-half decades.

A California native who spent her early years in Hawthorne, Lisa was raised by her Italian grandparents. Her grandmother, Anna Cantalini, the restaurant’s namesake, originally came from the mountainous Abruzzi region

of central Italy and showered Lisa with love and warmth, not to mention the best home-cooked meals a kid could ask for.

“I was fortunate to be raised by my grandparents,” says Lisa. “My grandmother taught me so much— not just about cooking, but about the importance of family and old-school values.”

Lisa fondly recalls standing on a stool in the kitchen as a child, closing halfmoon ravioli with a fork.

“At three or four years old, that was my job,” she says.

Her grandmother guided her through the art of handmade pasta, including long noodles they would lay out on

towels on the bed to dry.

Those early lessons stayed with her, and would eventually become the foundation of Cantalini’s menu. The ravioli, like the ones filled with braised short rib and ricotta or spinach and cheese, are a delicious homage to Nonna Anna’s recipes and traditions.

Before becoming a restaurateur, Lisa had a successful career in accounting and business management. But her life took an unexpected turn in late 1999 when she heard Giovanni’s Salerno Beach–a quirky Playa del Rey eatery known for its eclectic, Christmasy décor–was shuttering after 30 years.

“I got this funny call from a friend who said, ‘You know that crazy Christmas place by your house? They’re closing.’ Turns out, Giovanni wasn’t doing well health-wise and wanted to go back to Italy. I had been a regular there for takeout and Giovanni always reminded me of my grandfather. I couldn’t bear the thought of it disappearing,” she says.

With a mix of nostalgia, curiosity, and the hope to honor her Italian roots, Lisa reached out to the owner. In a matter of days she struck a deal to take over the restaurant, with the details handwritten on the back of a paper placemat. On January 2, 2000, Lisa officially reopened the doors as Cantalini’s Salerno Beach, renaming it after her grandmother. She kept the iconic neon sign and historic charm, but slowly refurbished the space with her own style.

Transforming the restaurant into her own was both a challenge and a labor of love.

“I knew nothing about the restaurant industry,” Lisa says. “But I approached it like hosting a big family dinner. How hard

Photos by Zsuzsi Steiner

could it be?”

Over time, she learned the business of running a kitchen while respecting the restaurant’s deep roots.

“One piece of advice I got was not to try to be Giovanni, but to honor what people loved about the place while making it my own. My intention at the beginning was to make sure that we were a restaurant for all things. I wanted to be the date night place, the family place, the place that you could gather for events,” she says.

The first thing she knew she needed to add to the menu was pizza.

“Giovanni hated pizza! And he didn’t really have any seafood,” she says.

Luckily, Lisa was able to bring in a chef from Tutto Bene in Malibu, who brought in seafood pescatore, linguini with clams and the crab cannelloni.

“All that stuff came from that guy, and I was very fortunate to train with him. It probably took me seven years to really make the restaurant mine,” she says.

A big part of that was decluttering.

“Every year, Monday by Monday, because we were closed, I would take a little bit of the Christmas decorations and chianti bottles out of the ceiling. Finally, we were able to introduce a new environment,” she says.

Beyond ensuring the food was the highest quality and the menu was full of crowd pleasers, it’s really the patrons who have made the restaurant a community hub.

“People walk in the door to this day and go, ‘We had our first date in that booth 35 years ago,’ or ‘My parents, who are gone now, had their wedding rehearsal dinner in here.’ It’s crazy to me the history in this (continued on page 20)

At top: The Cantalini’s team, including owner Lisa Schwab (seated right) pose in the restaurant. At left: The menu is full of crowd favorites like the pasta primavera.

Business & Nonpro t News

Woman’s Club hosts Coffee & Conversation with Cops.

The Woman’s Club of Playa del Rey is encouraging the community to join them and Pacific Division police officers for “Coffee and a Conversation with Cops” on Saturday, February 1 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

The morning workshop will give neighbors a chance to share concerns and ask questions, while the officers provide details on safety and crime trends. RSVPs are required by January 24 to attend by emailing Margarita Diosomito at margarita.diosomito@ yahoo.com. Attendees are encouraged to submit questions for the LAPD with their RSVP.

The meeting will be held at the organization’s clubhouse, located at 8039 W. Manchester Ave. in Playa del Rey.

Guild Announces Keynote Speaker for Upcoming Luncheon.

Councilwoman Traci Park will be the featured speaker at the Westchester Mental Health Guild’s annual membership and supporter meeting. The event will be held on January 30 starting at 11 a.m. at Covenant Presbyterian Church and includes a complimentary lunch catered by Cantalini’s.

The luncheon will give an overview of the organization’s fundraising efforts, ways to get involved and plans for the upcoming year. To attend, reservations are required by January 24 to info@westchestermhg.org.

For the past 62 years, the Guild has raised money to support mental health at Airport Marina Counseling Service. The Guild holds multiple events and activities throughout the year,

The “Westchester: Home of LAX” sign recently received some TLC from two community groups after seeing the sign was vandalized. In early December, Westchester Rotary Club member Cindy Williams drove by the sign and noticed that it was not only graffitied, but also in dire need of a refresh. Fellow Rotarian Tom Johnstone volunteered to spruce it up with a new coat of paint. The sign, located at Westchester Park, was originally installed in 1979 as a gift from the graduating class of Westchester High. The Westchester Rotary Club, with the help of the Westchester Elks and Westchester Vitalization, previously helped restore the local landmark in 2012. Then in late December, the sign was damaged again, with Westchester residents Garrett Smith and Amy Nelson Frelinger stepping up to get the sign looking like new. They enlisted the help of Doug Ballard Painting to rehab the sign once again. Next time you’re at Westchester Park, check out the sign’s sparkle!

including restaurant fundraisers and a casino night. Its biggest fundraiser of the year is the Holiday Lights Tour & Contest, which took place last month.

More than 20 homes participated in the contest, which encouraged residents to spread holiday magic in the community by going all out on decorating with lights, inflatables and creativity.

The 2024 winners include:

• Fan Favorite Home: The Jarboe family

• Second Place Favorite: The Vanderjagt family

• Third Place Favorite: The Voss family and the Do family (tie) Learn more about the Guild and become a member with a $35 donation at westchestermhg.org.

Sign-Ups Now Open for Upcoming LMU 5K.

Start the new year training for the Fifth Annual Rock Roll & Run for Education 5K/1K at Loyola Marymount University!

The fun run is hosted by the LAX Coastal Education Foundation in partnership with LMU and features an

all-ages 5K through the university’s campus and a 1K Kids’ Run, as well as a community expo featuring live music, arts & crafts, kids’ activities, games and giveaways. The Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary will once again host the event’s free pancake breakfast. The proceeds raised from the event go back to the foundation’s participating K-12 schools. When registering, community members can select the school they’d like to support as a runner/walker or as a virtual runner. The cost to participate in the 5K is $25 and the 1K is $20.

The event will be held on Saturday, March 8 from 7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Learn more and register at laxcoastaledfoundation.com.

Share Your Life Story at Writing Workshop.

The Westchester Life Stories

Writing Group is starting its next round of meetings this month at the Westchester Family YMCA Annex.

If you’ve ever considered preserving the memories that have helped shape your life on paper and creating a readable legacy to share with your family and friends, you’re encouraged to join the supportive group on Wednesdays from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Meetings generally include a writing prompt, and participants sharing stories. People of all writing levels are welcome.

The class is facilitated by Madeline Nella, a retired associate professor from Santa Monica College.

For more information or to RSVP, please email lifestories90045@gmail. com with “Life Stories” in the subject line.

2025 Kids’ March for Equality. Families and the community are invited to participate in the annual Kids’ March for Equality in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday, January 20th. The event will take place from 10 to 11 a.m. at the corner of La Tijera and Sepulveda Blvd. in Westchester. Attendees are encouraged to bring handmade signs that promote kindness.

Organized by the Westside Activists, the event is designed to be positive, non-partisan and for all ages. Thanks to sponsors, the first 100 kids who participate will receive a goodie bag.

Local Scouts Honored to Participate in Rose Parade.

Once a year, a unique scouting troop is convened for the annual Tournament of Roses Parade composed of Eagle Scouts and Gold Award Girl Scouts from the greater Los Angeles area. For the 136th Rose Parade, two local Westchester Girl Scouts, Brooke Campbell and Allie Cunningham, both Gold Award recipients and seniors in high school, were selected to participate in this troop, whose primary responsibilities include leading the Opening Flag Ceremony at the Tournament House and carrying banners for the awardwinning floats during the 5.5-mile parade themed, “Best Day Ever!”

Cunningham has grown up watching the Rose Parade every year on New Year’s Day.

“I loved seeing the creativity of the floats and the delicate flowers plastered on the side. Being able to see the floats up close was magical,”

says Cunningham. “I met new people I will never forget and created a memory that will last a lifetime. I am forever grateful.”

During the months leading up to the parade, the Tournament Troop, led by Scouting America’s Bruce Renfrew, met in Pasadena to practice carrying the large banners and to rehearse the Flag Ceremony that officially kicks off the day’s festivities.

Campbell recalled, “Walking in the Rose Parade was such a surreal moment. As I reached the top of the hill of Colorado Blvd. and saw the hundreds of thousands of people lining the street, I knew all my efforts in my Gold Award and hours attending Girl Scout meetings had paid off. There truly couldn’t have been a better way to walk into my final year as a Girl Scout.”

Have info to share about your business or nonprofit? Email us at westchesterhometown@yahoo.com.

Westchester Girl Scouts Allie Cunningham (left) and Brooke Campbell were selected to participate in the Rose Parade as banner carriers for the award-winning floats.

Each year, the LAX Coastal Chamber celebrates the brave men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting our community. From January 27 to January 31, we’ll be recognizing the selfless service of our local heroes: LAPD, Los Angeles World Airport Police, LA County Sheriff, California Highway Patrol, LA County Fire Department, LA City Fire Department, LA County Lifeguards, United States Coast Guard, and local Healthcare Workers

To show our appreciation, we’ve planned a special week filled with meal baskets, catered lunches, and thank-you cards from local youth. Thank you to our generous sponsors! Find out how you

TIMELESS

Historical society celebrates milestones with 2025 exhibits

By Cozette Vergari

The Westchester/Playa Historical Society (WPHS ) will celebrate several community milestones this year at its Discovery Center, located in the Westchester Triangle. The community is invited to get immersed in local history at one of our six exhibits planned for 2025! First up for the WPHS is “In The Beginning: Part I of the Drollinger Legacy,” which opened on January 5.

The exhibit celebrates Ella Drollinger, a pioneer woman ahead of her time, and is on view through February 23.

Ella Drollinger is one of my heroes. Circa 1940, just twenty years after women received the right to vote in this country, Ella, a widow with two sons, took a ride into the wheat fields of Westchester with friend Frank Ayers, founder of the Ayers Hotel Chain, and had the foresight to purchase real estate. Upon this land, which stretched from La Tijera Boulevard south to what we now know as Howard B. Drollinger Way, on the east side of Sepulveda Boulevard, Ella built the first retail buildings in Westchester. She knew that the workers in the local defense industry who resided in the area needed places to shop. The defense workers’ contributions, in anticipation of being drawn into the European Theater in WWII, were critical to the entire country. After they were built, Ella leased the buildings to Thrifty Drug Store, Quigley’s department store and the Jim Dandy grocery store. This was just the beginning of a fast-growing commercial stretch of properties that would soon develop from Manchester Avenue South along Sepulveda Boulevard. At the time, there were few homes in the Westchester/Playa area, but due to the ramifications of WWII, between 1940 and 1950, the housing market boomed. The dramatic increase

in houses created further demand for retail to serve this growing community, the defense industry and the veterans returning from war.

In March, the Discovery Center will feature a one-month exhibit honoring the 75th anniversary of the Rotary Club of Westchester, which was chartered on March 24, 1950. Through its 75 years of service to the community, the club has raised and given back millions of dollars to benefit the area, including makeovers of community spaces like the Emerson Ave. Community Garden, the Westchester Senior Center and the Westchester Townhouse; support of major events like WAM and the Fourth of July Parade; high school scholarships, and so much more. The Rotary Club of Westchester is one of 62 clubs within the Los Angeles region, touching the lives of those in need or those meriting support locally and throughout the world. Under the umbrella of Rotary International and The Rotary

Foundation, clubs and their members make a difference in someone’s life every minute of every day somewhere in the world.

From April 6 through Father’s Day on June 15 the Discovery Center will feature “The Drollinger Legacy, Part II: Veteran Son Makes His Mark.” The exhibit will commemorate Howard Drollinger and his extensive contributions to the Westchester/Playa community. “The Drollinger Legacy, Part III: The Present,” follows and will run from June 22nd through August 31. The third exhibit in the series will highlight the monumental, creative and generous support of Karen Drollinger Dial, who currently leads the family’s legacy with appreciation and reverence.

Opening on September 7 and closing on September 28 will be a salute to the “Westchester Lariat’s 75th Anniversary.” The Lariats are a creation of Dr. Tillman Hall, a local resident who served as Chair of USC’s Physical

Education and Dance Departments.

The Westchester Lariats is a folk dance group, which encompasses and celebrates many cultures through dance. It originated as a square dance group that met for classes at the Westchester Townhouse, and for many years the dancers toured internationally during the summer. The local tradition continues today and is composed of local students from elementary through high school. Over the years, the group has been led by a handful of directors who followed Dr. Hall, including his younger daughter Jody Esser, who was the first to follow in his creative leadership, and yours truly. Today, Liz Kane continues the long tradition of the Westchester Lariat’s.

And, finally, the 2025 exhibit schedule will wrap up with “The Drollinger Legacy, Part IV: The Future” with the fourth generation, focusing on Natalie Dial and a recap of the Drollinger journey. Natalie, or “Nat,” and her husband, Harry Posner, have just opened their wonderful and exciting restaurant, Tomat, in the Westchester Triangle, which is the talk of the town. Their daughter, Saffi, is the fifth generation to be part of the Westchester/Playa community. Ella would be so proud!

Curious to learn more? Visit the Discovery Center located at 6207 W. 87th St. in the Westchester Triangle from 9:30 a.m. to noon on Sundays, and otherwise by appointment. Check out their website at wphistoricalsociety.org/ discovery-center.

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

A picture of Ella Drollinger and the Jim Dandy grocery store, part of Westchester’s first retail building, adorn the walls at the WPHS’s Discovery Center.

• Our curriculum blends classic and contemporary learning with Christian values.

• Our students are educated from preschool through eighth grade and graduate with outstanding results.

• Our extra-curricular programs encourage exploration and self-expression, from sports teams, special clubs, choir, and musical presentations.

• Our students discover their strengths and talents in a nurturing environment where their individual achievements are celebrated.

SUNDAY WORSHIP SERVICE 10:00 a.m. (Indoors & Livestream)

SERVICE 1st & 3rd Sunday of the month Sunday, Jan. 12 11:30AM-1:00PM Tours available by appt. at WLCS

• Global demonstration site visited by more than 15 countries

• Professional developement school for LMU School of Education

• High academic performance, joyful community, strong friendships

• 6 year WASC accreditation for TK - 12

WISH proudly particiaptes in the Westchester July 4th parade with our student designed and decorated float! WISH Middle Scholars celebrate STEM with the team-built cardboard boat regatta at LMU!

Hear from your co unity

Executive Directive 1 developments may shape Downtown Westchester

By Cory Birkett and Jolie Delja

Opinion: The future of Downtown Westchester may be shaped by Mayor Bass’ Executive Directive 1 (ED 1), a program that expedites the processing, clearances, and approvals of 100 percent affordable housing projects and shelters in Los Angeles. The goal of ED 1 is to quickly increase the City’s affordable housing stock by streamlining construction review and issuing building permits within 60 days. Indeed, since its issuance in December 2022, ED 1 has been lauded for successfully increasing the number of affordable housing projects proposed and approved across the city. However, the fast-tracking process inherent in ED 1 has led to unintended consequences and faced criticism, including because the affordable housing projects may be very large in scale relative to surrounding neighborhoods and may contain design elements misaligned with the look-and-feel of the communities in which they are situated. There has also been concern that some ED 1 projects have been proposed on parcels that already contain affordable Rent Stabilized Ordinance (RSO) units, and therefore that ED 1 projects would potentially lead to the displacement of low-income renters.

In response to these City-wide concerns, Mayor Bass has issued three revisions to ED 1. These revisions now stipulate that ED 1 projects cannot be built in single-family and duplex neighborhoods, historic districts, high fire zones, coastal protection areas, or hazardous sites. In addition, ED 1 projects cannot be located on a parcel containing 12 or more RSO units. Notably, the Mayor and her Housing Policy team continue to emphasize the importance of geographic equity in affordable housing distribution, acknowledging that ED 1 projects tend to be concentrated in specific areas and not spread throughout the city, leading to an inequitable distribution of affordable housing units.

Local Projects in Downtown Westchester: ED 1 vs. Standard Review

You may have heard about two major projects coming to Westchester: a 489-unit development on the Del Taco/Pep Boys lot and a 266-unit senior housing complex at the Staples and adjacent parking lot. These projects are not ED 1 projects and are

going through the standard permitting and review process, which includes environmental assessments and public hearings. In contrast, ED 1 projects are fast-tracked, bypassing lengthy environmental reviews and public input. As a result, they often move forward with little to no community approval.

One key difference between ED 1 projects and standard developments is the lack of on-site parking. Since ED 1 projects are typically located near public transit, the parking requirement is waived to reduce costs and maximize the number of housing units. In addition, ED 1 projects generally lack other community benefits that are typically included in standard developments, such as shopping or dining options on the ground floor.

Westchester: A High Opportunity Area

Westchester has been designated a “High Opportunity Area” by City Planning, meaning it offers better access to jobs, quality schools, and transit, while also experiencing lower levels of environmental hazards.

The City’s Housing Element and

Citywide Housing Incentive Program (CHIP) aim to direct new housing development toward these “High Opportunity Areas” to expand access to economic mobility for more Angelenos.

However, the designation of Westchester as a “High Opportunity Area” is questionable when considering its proximity to LAX. Living near a major international airport comes with unique environmental and health challenges, such as high levels of traffic, hazardous noise exposure, and air pollution from aircraft emissions, including ultrafine particulate matter. These pollutants may be harmful to residents’ health, particularly children, the elderly, and individuals with preexisting health conditions.

ED 1 in Westchester: A

Disproportionate Burden

A developer has filed an ED 1 application for an eight-story, 413-unit project to replace the parking lot of the former Bed Bath & Beyond. This is just one of several ED 1 proposals for Downtown Westchester and the Westchester area more generally. Of the 1,392 ED 1 units proposed for

Westchester, more than 1,000 units are concentrated near the LAX North Runway, an area already burdened by heavy traffic and infrastructure strain. This clustering of affordable housing units may create a lower opportunity district that does not ultimately allow its residents to avail themselves of the benefits of living in a “High Opportunity Area.”

In Council District 11, 79.2 percent of the ED 1 units are proposed for Westchester, while only 20.8 percent are slated for Cheviot Hills, West L.A. and Palms/Mar Vista. Other communities in Council District 11, such as Pacific Palisades, Brentwood, Playa del Rey, and Venice, are exempt from ED 1 projects due to environmental concerns and subsequent protections in high fire zones and coastal protection areas. Yet Westchester, which faces its own environmental challenges due to proximity to the airport, is taking on the large majority of ED 1 units. The disproportionate allocation of ED 1 units proposed for Westchester raises concerns about ED 1 and how urgent it may be for the Mayor to issue another revision that better promotes geographic equity by more fairly allocating affordable housing responsibilities to all communities in Los Angeles. Westchester should not bear the influx of CD 11’s affordable housing development simply because the other areas have secured exemptions. Westchester also faces infrastructure strain and environmental risks associated with the airport that need to be taken seriously for current and future residents.

Environmental Concerns: LAX Proximity to Proposed ED 1 Projects and Health Risks

The majority of the proposed ED 1 projects in Westchester are located close to the LAX North Runway, an area defined by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as a “Runway Protection Zone.” This zone is intended to provide clear space for aircraft takeoffs and landings, with strict height restrictions for buildings in the area. Additionally, the proposed ED 1 projects would be situated in a region identified by Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) as a hazardous “Airport Noise Contour,” where residents are exposed to harmful noise and air pollution.

(continued on page 16)

An infographic outlining developments in the pipeline along Sepulveda Blvd., which demonstrate the potential for 1,786 new units in less than half a square mile.

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Developments in Downtown Westchester

(continued from page 14)

Living in close proximity to an airport exposes residents to hazardous noise and ultrafine particulate matter (UFPs) emitted by aircrafts, both of which have been shown to negatively impact human health. Given these risks, allowing affordable housing in such environmentally compromised areas contradicts the city’s environmental justice policies, which aim to protect vulnerable populations from harmful toxins. ED 1 itself notes that affordable housing projects should not be located in hazardous sites, and additional guardrails are needed in order to ensure that these projects are not located in such close proximity to the hazards of LAX.

Proposals for Addressing the Issue: Additional Guardrails for ED

A community group, One Voice Westchester, which advocates for balanced approaches to challenges in Westchester, Playa, and Ladera including the Community Plan Update, has proposed some shortterm solutions to mitigate the impact of ED 1. The following solutions were presented to the Neighborhood Council’s Planning & Land Use Committee in November 2024:

1. Cap ED 1 units to 500 per zip code until all zip codes have

contributed their proportional share of affordable housing.

2. Implement a “distance rule” to prevent clustering of ED 1 units in low-income areas and promote equitable distribution of affordable housing units.

3. Adopt an Airport Region Exemption within five miles of LAX, or impose a moratorium on new projects until after the 2028 Olympics to avoid disruptions to both airport operations and local traffic.

Sarah Howard, co-founder of One Voice Westchester, stated that “Incentivizing developers to create housing for low-income individuals in highly polluted areas near the airport is cause for great concern. Without additional guardrails to ED 1, this policy risks leaving a legacy of inequity and disproportionality across Los Angeles.”

As a community member of the Neighborhood Council’s Planning & Land Use and Ad Hoc Community Plan Update Committees, Cory Birkett, has also presented a longerterm solution, creating an Airport Community Plan Implementation Overlay (CPIO) as part of the ongoing Community Plan Update. A CPIO could help guide development in Downtown Westchester, particularly the areas most impacted by LAX.

A CPIO could promote mixed-use development that strengthens the economic viability of Downtown Westchester, including requiring that new projects include dining, retail, and other commercial uses on the ground floor, while ensuring that parking options are maximized. It could also help create a more walkable downtown, easing some of the traffic congestion caused by the airport. Ideally, a CPIO would help mitigate the environmental and infrastructural pressures that Downtown Westchester faces while fostering a thriving, community-centered hub for both residents and visitors.

Westchester is poised to see significant housing development over the next five years. While the Neighborhood Council and groups like One Voice Westchester are committed to contributing to the city’s affordable housing goals, we all must work together to ensure that development occurs with a balanced and thoughtful approach. The City must work closely with developers, City Planning, and community members to ensure that these projects not only provide much-needed affordable units but also offer community benefits such as quality design, public amenities, and sufficient parking.

Furthermore, it is crucial that the city takes into account the unique environmental challenges that Westchester faces due to its proximity to LAX. Without careful coordination between City Planning, LAWA, and the FAA, the current approach risks the health and well-being of residents in the proposed ED 1 projects, due to environmental hazards. It also risks exacerbating existing traffic congestion and infrastructure strain. By ensuring that ED 1 projects are equitably distributed across CD 11 and sensitive to Westchester’s unique needs, we can help create a sustainable and thriving future for Downtown Westchester.

About the Authors:

Cory Birkett is a member of the Neighborhood Council of Westchester/Playa’s Planning and Land Use Committee, the Community Plan Update Ad Hoc Committee and a Westchester resident.

Jolie Delja brings experience in community engagement and advocacy. She is passionate about ensuring that community members and small businesses can flourish in Westchester, Playa, and Ladera. She, along with Sarah Howard, established One Voice Westchester in 2023 to help inform community members about upzoning and its potential impacts.

DRE #00998927

Robert Higgins Photography Linda Sota, Balloon Art

Business Profile: Trans Port Station brings micromobility to Westchester Triangle

By Shanee Edwards

For John Breza, owner of Trans Port Station on 87th Street, bicycles are more than just a way to get around–they’re the key to a better future. Located in the heart of Westchester’s thriving Triangle, his bike shop is leading what John calls the “micromobility revolution,” championing electric bikes, scooters, and tricycles as great alternative transportation for Angelenos.

From Aerospace to E-Bikes

John’s career began in the aerospace industry. When he retired a few years ago, he decided to turn his focus to getting earthbound folks onto e-bikes.

Whether it’s about launching people into space or carting fresh produce from the farmers’ market, John says he’s always been interested in exploring alternative forms of getting around. He first encountered e-bikes in New York City in the late 1990s.

“The first time I rode an e-bike, I thought, ‘This bike could change the world!’ And now, technology has evolved to the point where it truly can,” John says.

He selected Westchester as the home for his business because he liked the area for its active community and forward-thinking mindset. His first location was in the shopping center that housed Dinah’s, but when the land was purchased for redevelopment, he knew the Westchester Triangle was the perfect spot to relocate.

“This particular area is phenomenal, and we’re just really happy it’s popping right now,” he says.

The Potential of Micromobility

When John says he’s passionate about e-bike technology, he means it.

“It’s probably the most important vehicle since the Mongolians learned to mount and ride the horse, in the 1200s. People who ride e-bikes for the first time are like, ‘Wow! This is truly bionic’ because what you have is an electric motor and human power meshing together almost seamlessly. In the last

30 years, I’ve seen the development of that to a level that is quite high in terms of the quality,” he says.

He urges people not to underestimate how e-bikes can improve their lives.

“Whether it’s running errands, commuting to work, or even reducing crime by humanizing our streets, e-bikes and other micromobility vehicles have the power to reshape how we interact with our neighborhoods and our city,” he says.

While e-bikes are probably the most popular item at Trans Port Station, electric scooters and e-tricycles designed for carrying cargo are also gaining traction.

“These small electric vehicles offer options that traditional cars can’t match and they work in tandem with public transit,” he says. “The true revolution in electric vehicles is not in the electric car, but in e-micromobility.”

Challenges on the Road Ahead

While John is optimistic about the future of all e-vehicles, he knows Los

Angeles is a car-focused city and safety for bicyclists is a big concern.

“Riding in the streets here is incredibly dangerous,” he says. “What we need are more bike-friendly streets and a cultural shift to prioritize alternative transportation.”

But he also knows that not everyone is a fan of the electric bikes that seem to be everywhere these days.

“There’s a misconception that e-bikes are a nuisance or unsafe. But these vehicles are too efficient and too valuable to ignore,” he says.

Direct to Humans

As for John’s role in encouraging people to “think outside the car,” at his shop located between Ayara and Triangle Wines, he offers sales, service repairs and rentals of all quality bikes, from manual 10-speeds to cutting-edge electric models. Most importantly, he wants to provide the human interaction people won’t get shopping online.

John’s goal is for Trans Port Station to be more than just a bike shop; for him, it’s a community hub. His team focuses on providing personalized service, offering guidance for all things bikes, not just the ones they sell.

“We call it, ‘direct to humans,’” he says with a smile. “People miss walking into a shop and having their questions answered face-to-face.”

The shop also caters to a wide

range of customers, including those with physical challenges.

“We believe micromobility can benefit everyone,” says John, who shares that motorized tricycles are becoming increasingly popular with people who struggle with balance or need to carry heavy loads.

Looking Ahead

Despite the challenges, John is optimistic about the future of e-bikes locally.

“I think we’re very lucky here in Westchester because we have two very good bike lanes that lead us to the beach,” he says. “It might take a while, but I believe we’re moving toward a more bike-friendly city. These vehicles are just too efficient and versatile not to catch on.”

For now, John’s focus is on making Trans Port Station a helpful, familyfriendly bike shop for the whole community.

“We’re here to help people find the right bike for their needs and to show them how micromobility can change their lives,” he says. “It’s not just about selling bikes; it’s about building connections and making our neighborhoods better.”

Trans Port Station is located at 6239 West 87th Street. Call (310) 429-2791 or visit tportstation.com for more information.

Photo by Robert Higgins

John poses with some of his favorite bikes at his Westchester shop.

Cantalini’s anniversary (cont’d)

(continued from page 4) place. And I do consider it a historical landmark. I do feel like it’s the center of town, that has been in people’s lives all these generations,” she says.

Lisa’s niece Emily also works at the restaurant and often talks about the kids that come in with their parents to look at LMU and then come back four years later for a celebratory meal when they graduate.

“In 25 years, I have seen every stage of life from marriages to births to funerals, and I am now seeing the children I saw in strollers having their own kids…It’s a whole span. I think that’s my favorite part about the restaurant being 25 years old,” she says with a smile.

Beyond feeding the community she loves, Lisa’s commitment to Playa del Rey doesn’t stop at the table. An advocate for community service, she’s an active member of the Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary Club, which she is coleading this year. By delivering meals to local seniors, donating her services to support mental health and sponsoring various community groups and events, Lisa ensures Cantalini’s remains a valuable part of the neighborhood.

“It’s important to me to give back,” Lisa says. “This community has supported us through thick and thin, and I want to do the same.”

And the community gives back to Lisa, too. During the pandemic, when the restaurant faced big challenges and was forced to be take-out only, Lisa was

surprised by the outpouring of support from locals and even former residents.

“I received letters and donations from people across the country,” Lisa says. “They wanted to make sure we and our staff were okay. That kind of support is what community is all about.”

She’s also received accolades from groups like the Friends of Ballona Wetlands and the Mar Vista Family Center for her generosity and volunteerism.

The restaurant officially celebrated its 25th anniversary on January 2 with champagne for its guests and discounts for diners.

“It was our way of saying thank you for 25 amazing years,” Lisa says.

Looking to the future, Lisa remains hopeful, yet realistic, about the challenges ahead. Rising costs and an unpredictable economic landscape weigh heavily on her mind.

“We want to remain a place where families can gather without breaking the bank,” Lisa shares. “But finding that balance is a puzzle we’re still working on.”

Despite the uncertainties, Lisa’s love for Playa del Rey and her dedication to its residents keeps her going.

“This community is everything to me,” she says. “I’ve seen the marriages, births, and the milestones of so many families here. It’s humbling to be part of their stories.”

Cantalini’s is located at 193 Culver Blvd. in Playa del Rey. Follow them on IG @cantalinis.

Join us for a tasting experience that’s uniquely Californian –and uniquely LMU.

Wine Tasting and Silent Auction: 2-5 p.m.

To buy tickets and for more info, go to lmu.edu/wineclassic

Christy Skura has made it a priority to make a positive impact on her community.

By day Christy, a mom of two teen boys, works as a physical therapist doing clinical research at UCLA. With a passion for helping people, she finds leading clinical trials, especially in pediatrics, very rewarding. One exciting aspect of her job includes traveling across the U.S. and internationally—she recently had the chance to visit India—to train fellow physical therapists on best practices. If she can time it correctly, she loves to be able to extend the trips for some fun sight-seeing.

Closer to home, Christy enjoys volunteering with local groups like Grass Roots Neighbors, and the Westchester YMCA. A Westchester resident since 2003, she first joined the Y’s board after being inspired by all the programming they launched during the pandemic to respond to the community’s needs. Christy currently leads the Y’s Family Engagement Committee, and with her fellow members, she works on creating fun events and

2 3

5 QUESTIONS WITH... ROBIN ZACHA

by Robert Higgins

christy skura

opportunities for local families to spend time together and make connections to their neighborhood. While the group is still finalizing its event schedule for the year, Christy is looking forward to planning events like the Third Annual Battle of the Bands (spring), Aloha Summer and the Halloween Spooktacular (October).

“My experience with the Y has been really meaningful,” says Christy. “I feel so lucky that we found Westchester. There are so many ways to feel part of the community thanks to events like the Spooktacular and the parade.”

In her free time, Christy loves baking–especially if she can make something to donate to feed a family from Grass Roots Neighbors—watching movies with her husband, going for a nice long run and traveling to far off places. This year, she hopes to get back to fostering animals from Annenberg PetSpace!

We recently spoke with Christy and asked her to share her thoughts, so here is “5 Questions With...Christy!”

If you’re looking for the perfect local day out, where are you going?

First, would be either a walk or run along the beach or bluff trail, or if I wanted to venture further, the Culver City stairs or the bowl at the top of Kenneth Hahn Park. If there’s been a recent rain, the view is so clear and you can see for miles! After getting my steps in for the day, I’m headed to relax while watching a movie at the Playa Vista Cinemark and getting food somewhere delicious, like Dan’s Modern Chinese.

What do you tell people who are new to the area about Westchester/Playa?

What is the most rewarding thing about volunteering with community groups?

The best part about volunteering is working toward a common goal and knowing that other people share your interest in making the world a better place, in whatever way you choose to do it. I have met the most amazing people through my volunteer work, and forged deep lifelong friendships with people I would have otherwise never gotten to know.

What’s your favorite community event or activity?

Of course, I have to give a shout-out to the YMCA’s annual October Spooktacular! I’ve helped with planning the event the last couple of years, but it has been happening for several more than that, and it is just a great community event–from our local sponsors to all the volunteers, including dozens of local teenagers! There are fun games for the little ones, and usually face painters, magicians, food trucks, and a haunted maze. It’s so fun to see families dressed in costume and enjoying the event together.

What’s your best neighborhood tip?

You’re going to love it here! Join the local Facebook groups to find your people, read the HomeTown News to find out about local events, and don’t miss the “Best Of” edition each year to learn about all of the great places you’re going to want to check out! Somehow, Westchester/Playa is still the best-kept secret pocket of L.A. that people don’t know about, with a great small-town feel. 5 4

Get involved! Giving back is the best way to feel really connected to the community, and I’ve always gotten more than what I’ve put in! From helping at your local school (even if you don’t have a kid there, I promise they always need volunteers!) and neighborhood cleanups, to volunteering with community non-profits, there are so many ways to give a little of your time, or a lot, and to connect with others. A couple of my favorite places to volunteer are the Westchester YMCA and Grass Roots Neighbors.

Somehow, Westchester/Playa is still the best-kept secret pocket of L.A. that people don’t know about, with a great small-town feel. “ “

Photo

Juniors (14U): $300

Majors (12U): $300

Minors (10U): $300

Mini-Minors (8U): $225 Schools

Random Notes/Opinion

More than muscle: holistic benefits of strength training

By Jeff Blair

Opinion: People often view exercise as a form of deprivation. Many do not find it fun and would rather be doing almost anything else. For whatever reason, I have always viewed it as something that enhances my life rather than diminishes it. Understanding and internalizing the numerous benefits of exercise can be a great way to improve the chances you will stick with it. When there is personal meaning connected to any activity, motivation increases. In that vein, I will discuss the many holistic benefits of strength training in this month’s article.

Empowerment in a Physical

Context

At a certain point in life, we may begin to feel like our physical well-being and health are like a runaway train going downhill and there is simply nothing that can be done about it. While some changes are inevitable with time, we can still do many things throughout life that people assume are not possible. The example I always think of is performing strenuous physical activity while on vacation. Strength training allows us to stay strong enough to ride bikes through the European countryside, hike up some good-sized hills or spend most of the day on our feet sightseeing. Not being able to do these things because my strength has dropped would feel like deprivation to me. Seeing someone build

up enough strength to pursue these lifelong dreams at 50 or 60 is pretty cool. People also seem to experience greater self-esteem and a sense of autonomy when they have the strength to perform these enjoyable physical activities. The belief that “I can do hard things” becomes internalized. That can be life-changing in many cases, as people might start questioning what other selflimiting beliefs they hold.

Mental and Cognitive Benefits

The most obvious benefit here is improved mood. Research shows strength training simply helps us feel better. And who doesn’t want to feel better more often? An interesting line of research shows strength training can even help ease anxiety and depression in many who experience those issues. If you think you might be experiencing those issues, of course, seek the help of a licensed professional and do not make changes without their approval. These professionals will likely encourage exercise. The American Medical Association has noted the therapeutic benefits of exercise for depression and states the benefits may be comparable to therapy or medication, with the best results coming when someone combines exercise with other therapies. In other words, doing both may be the best path for most people. There is also an emotional benefit of

consistent strength training. Everyone experiences a variety of stresses in life, and there are many healthy ways to attempt to navigate these challenges. Strength training can improve your ability to handle stress by better managing various stress hormones. Research shows that individuals who engage in regular strength training experience lower stress levels than those who do not consistently engage in strength training. I frequently remind our clients that “every workout is a great workout” because you are doing something positive for your physical, mental and emotional health.

Improved

Social

Connections and Sense of Healthy Community

Human beings crave social connections. We can go to bars “where everyone knows your name” and that can provide a form of social support. Yet, that may not work for everyone and those experiences may include negative aspects. A very interesting–and somewhat new–line of research focuses on the social benefits of exercising with other people. This research shows people can more easily make friends, build relationships and create personal bonds when they exercise with others. Exercising with a group also tends to enhance motivation, improve exercise adherence and reduce feelings of loneliness. Along with all these benefits,

exercising produces almost endless physical health benefits. If you can find a positive, supportive environment, your self-esteem will also likely improve as you know you are doing one of the best things you can do for yourself. Note that some environments may be completely fixated on issues like weight and idealized and unrealistic body images and that may not be a good fit for everyone. Find an environment that is holistic, positive and feels right for you!

Jeff Blair (MS, CSCS) is a fitness author, certified personal trainer and founder of the SoCalSport Personal Training Studio in Westchester. The studio has provided more than 50,000 personal training experiences since opening in 2012. Email jeff@socalsport.com for comments.

Thank You Councilmember Traci Park!!

Your bold advocacy, community investment and out of box thinking are appreciated. Specifically, we salute you for:

• Hosting public town halls on tough topics

• Hiring and nurturing a strong team to support your work on our behalf

• Partnering with and always being open to collaboration with your constituents

• Regularly hosting community leaders to share important community updates

• Supporting our community vision regarding our Community Plan Update

• Taking a stand for reasonable residential growth along our community corridors

• Standing with our community to preserve low density zoning in our R-1 communities

• Clearing RVs from our beloved Ballona Wetlands and championing restoration

• Standing firm on crime and leading efforts to secure real time crime centers

• Making yourself available to meet with community groups on request

• Allocating funds for LAPD overtime to bring additional patrol resources to our community

• Enthusiastically supporting our Historical Society, Community Garden, WAM, 4th of July Parade and other community treasures

• Speaking out against the Albertsons/Kroger merger and supporting our Little Vons

• Leading efforts to create a permanent Al Fresco Dining Program

• Advocating for small landlords and tenants

• Working with community members to establish parking permit districts

• Arranging extra police when theft rings ran rampant in our community

• Fighting for our veterans to access housing and healthcare

• Working tirelessly to fully fund our police and fire departments

• Introducing important regulations against vanlords

• Deploying a Beautification Team to clean up public areas and abate weeds

• Standing as a leader on our City Council for compassionate RV outreach and clean up

• Launching Coastal CARE+ to clear encampments and debris at Dockweiler Beach

• Implementing a host of new oversize vehicle parking restrictions

• Fighting to preserve our historical fire station #5 and working to redeploy the property for community use and youth programs

• Ensuring safe passage in sensitive community spaces, including schools, parks, daycares, libraries and freeway underpasses

• Working tirelessly to secure housing resources and clearing dangerous encampments

• Securing funding for expanded reunification services to return unhoused people to their families and support networks

• Introducing Automated License Plate Readers to our District

• Allocating funds for tree trimming and streetlight repairs as crime deterrents

We look forward to continuing to partner with you to make Westchester/Playa and CD-11 a community we can all be proud of!

LGBTQIA PROCESS GROUP: NAVIGATING HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS WITH SELF AND OTHERS Thursdays | 5 - 6:30pm via Zoom • $15/session Tyler (she/they) at ext. 140 & Adriana (she/her) at ext. 180

GROUP FACILITATORS SUPERVISED BY Mimi Hoang, Ph.D. (she/her) #PSY22006

LGBTQIA PROCESS GROUP:

JOIN ONE OF OUR THERAPY GROUPS

LGBTQIA PROCESS GROUP:

LGBTQIA PROCESS

NAVIGATING HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS WITH SELF AND OTHERS

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP

LGBTQIA PROCESS GROUP: NAVIGATING HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS WITH SELF AND OTHERS

LGBTQIA PROCESS GROUP: NAVIGATING HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS WITH SELF AND OTHERS Thursdays | 5 - 6:30pm via Zoom • $15/session Tyler (she/they) at ext. 140 & Adriana (she/her) at ext. 180

Thursdays | 5 - 6:30pm via Zoom • $15/session Tayler (she/they) at ext. 140 & Adriana (she/her) at ext. 180

Thursdays | 10 - 11:30am in-person at AMCS • $15/session Kathy at ext. 146

NAVIGATING HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS WITH SELF AND OTHERS

LGBTQIA PROCESS GROUP: NAVIGATING HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS WITH SELF AND OTHERS

Thursdays | 5 - 6:30pm via Zoom • $15/session

LGBTQIA PROCESS GROUP: NAVIGATING HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS WITH SELF AND OTHERS

GROUP: NAVIGATING HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS WITH SELF AND OTHERS

Thursdays | 5 - 6:30pm via Zoom • $15/session

Thursdays | 5 - 6:30pm via Zoom • $15/session Tayler (she/they) at ext. 140 & Adriana (she/her) at ext. 180

Tyler (she/they) at ext. 140 & Adriana (she/her) at ext. 180

Thursdays | 5 - 6:30pm via Zoom • $15/session Tyler (she/they) at ext. 140 & Adriana (she/her) at ext. 180

GROUP FACILITATORS SUPERVISED BY Mimi Hoang, Ph.D. (she/her) #PSY22006

Thursdays | 5 - 6:30pm via Zoom • $15/session Tayler (she/they) at ext. 140 & Adriana (she/her) at ext. 180

Roscoe, LCSW, CGP #60100

GROUP FACILITATORS SUPERVISED BY Mimi Hoang, Ph.D. (she/her) #PSY22006

WOMEN’S PROCESS GROUPS

GROUP FACILITATORS SUPERVISED BY Mimi Hoang, Ph.D. (she/her) #PSY22006

WOMEN’S PROCESS GROUPS

Wednesdays | 5:30 – 7pm via Zoom • $15/session Alexis at ext. 167 & Kathy at ext. 146

GROUP FACILITATORS SUPERVISED BY Mimi Hoang, Ph.D. (she/her) #PSY22006

SELF AND OTHERS Thursdays | 5 - 6:30pm via Zoom • $15/session Tayler (she/they) at ext. 140 & Adriana (she/her) at ext. 180 GROUP FACILITATORS SUPERVISED BY Mimi Hoang, Ph.D. (she/her) #PSY22006

GROUP FACILITATORS SUPERVISED BY Mimi Hoang, Ph.D. (she/her) #PSY22006

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP

GROUP FACILITATORS SUPERVISED BY Mimi Hoang, Ph.D. (she/her) #PSY22006

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP

Thursdays | 10 - 11:30am in-person at AMCS • $15/session Kathy at ext. 146

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP

Thursdays | 10 - 11:30am in-person at AMCS • $15/session Gabe at ext. 175 & Kayla at ext. 164

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP

Thursdays | 10 - 11:30am in-person at AMCS • $15/session Kathy at ext. 146

WOMEN’S PROCESS GROUPS

GROUPS

WOMEN’S PROCESS GROUPS

Wednesdays | 5:30 – 7pm via Zoom • $15/session Alexis at ext. 167 & Kathy at ext. 146

Wednesdays | 5:30 – 7pm via Zoom • $15/session Ciera at ext. 227 & Kayla at ext. 164

Wednesdays | 5:30 – 7pm via Zoom • $15/session Alexis at ext. 167 & Kathy at ext. 146

| 5:30 – 7pm via Zoom • $15/session Alexis at ext. 167

Wednesdays | 5:30 – 7pm via Zoom • $15/session Alexis at ext. 167 & Kathy at ext. 146

Wednesdays | 5:30 – 7pm via Zoom • $15/session Ciera at ext. 227 & Kayla at ext. 164

GROUP FACILITATORS

WOMEN’S PROCESS GROUPS Wednesdays | 5:30 – 7pm via Zoom • $15/session

GROUP FACILITATORS SUPERVISED BY Stefani Roscoe, LCSW, CGP #60100

Thursdays | 10 - 11:30am in-person at AMCS • $15/session Kathy at ext. 146

Thursdays | 10 - 11:30am in-person at AMCS • $15/session Gabe at ext. 175 & Kayla at ext. 164

Thursdays | 10 - 11:30am in-person at AMCS • $15/session Gabe at ext. 175

Thursdays | 10 - 11:30am in-person at AMCS • $15/session Kathy at ext. 146

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP

GROUP FACILITATORS SUPERVISED BY Stefani Roscoe, LCSW, CGP #60100

Thursdays | 10 - 11:30am in-person at AMCS • $15/session Gabe at ext. 175 & Kayla at ext. 164

GROUP FACILITATORS SUPERVISED BY Stefani Roscoe, LCSW, CGP #60100

Ciera at ext. 227 & Kayla at ext. 164

EMERGING ADULTS:

GROUP FACILITATORS SUPERVISED BY Stefani Roscoe, LCSW, CGP #60100

EMERGING ADULTS: NAVIGATING YOUR 20s

GROUP FACILITATORS SUPERVISED BY Stefani Roscoe, LCSW, CGP #60100

GROUP FACILITATORS SUPERVISED BY Stefani Roscoe, LCSW, CGP #60100 EMERGING ADULTS: NAVIGATING YOUR 20s Thursdays | 5:30 - 7pm via Zoom • $15/session

EMERGING ADULTS:

GROUP FACILITATORS SUPERVISED BY Stefani Roscoe, LCSW, CGP #60100

EMERGING ADULTS:

NAVIGATING YOUR 20s

FACILITATORS SUPERVISED BY Stefani Roscoe, LCSW, CGP #60100 EMERGING ADULTS: NAVIGATING YOUR 20s Thursdays | 5:30 - 7pm via Zoom • $15/session Rebecca at ext. 170 & Gabe at

GROUP FACILITATORS SUPERVISED BY Stefani Roscoe, LCSW, CGP #60100 EMERGING ADULTS: NAVIGATING YOUR 20s Thursdays | 5:30 - 7pm via Zoom • $15/session Rebecca at ext. 170 &

Thursdays | 5:30 - 7pm via Zoom • $15/session Rebecca at ext. 170 & Gabe at ext. 175

ADULTS: NAVIGATING YOUR 20s Thursdays | 5:30 - 7pm via Zoom • $15/session Rebecca at ext. 170 & Gabe at ext. 175

NAVIGATING YOUR 20s

Rebecca at ext. 170 & Gabe at ext. 175

Thursdays | 5:30 - 7pm via Zoom • $15/session

Thursdays | 5:30 - 7pm via Zoom • $15/session Rebecca at ext. 170 & Gabe at ext. 175

Thursdays | 5:30 - 7pm via Zoom • $15/session

Rebecca at ext. 170 & Gabe at ext. 175

GROUP FACILITATORS SUPERVISED BY Stefani

Rebecca at ext. 170 & Gabe at ext. 175

GROUP FACILITATORS SUPERVISED BY Stefani Roscoe, LCSW, CGP #60100

EMERGING ADULTS: NAVIGATING YOUR 20s Thursdays | 5:30 - 7pm via Zoom • $15/session Rebecca at ext. 170 & Gabe at ext. 175

GROUP FACILITATORS SUPERVISED BY Stefani Roscoe, LCSW, CGP #60100

Is connecting more with your neighborhood in your plans for 2025? Community groups are always looking for new volunteers to help them accomplish their altruistic goals for the year, and Westchester/Playa is full of opportunities to pay it forward. Every small act of kindness can have a ripple effect that inspires others to lend a hand, too!

Make a difference in your community by checking out our top four picks for getting involved and giving back over the next 12 months.

1. Donate your Time to a Cleanup Effort.

The Friends of Ballona Wetlands and Clean Up Westchester are two groups that hold monthly opportunities for participants to roll up their sleeves and make a measurable impact in the area.

This month, the Friends are hosting a Ballona Creek Cleanup on January 11 and a Community Habitat Restoration on January 25. Families are invited to sign up with activities recommended for ages 7 and up. Volunteers truly make a difference, and last year, the Playa del Rey nonprofit logged 2,325 volunteers who spent more than 7,900 hours removing trash and clearing out invasive plants! Learn more about volunteering at ballonafriends.org.

Clean Up Westchester has made it their mission to get the area’s major thoroughfares looking in tip-top shape, thanks to their twice monthly cleanup events. Community members, families and volunteers of all ages are encouraged to participate in their grassroots efforts, with the added perk of receiving a T-shirt, coffee and donuts for a job well-done. Upcoming clean-ups include January 18 at Manchester Ave. and Airport Blvd. (near 7-Eleven) and February 1 at Sepulveda Blvd. and 80th Street (near Covenant Presbyterian Church). Volunteering lasts an hour and starts at 9 a.m. Get the full 2025 schedule and learn more by following them on Instagram @cleanupwestchester.

2. Support a Local Event.

Putting on a large community event is no easy task! It takes months to secure permits, sponsors and volunteers, not to mention all the meetings to make sure the event is fun, safe and entertaining. By supporting local happenings, attendees encourage organizers to continue hosting these experiences. And when an event is successful and has a large turnout, more sponsors want to get involved, which means more activities and potential for fundraising!

Below is a list of some of our favorite community happenings over the first half of the year (exact dates for events are TBD unless noted):

January:

• Kids’ March for Equality, in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. on January 20

February:

• LMU Wine Classic, to raise money

performances of classic works held at LMU

3. Join a Community Group. If you’re looking for a plethora of choices and opportunities to give back each month, joining a service club could be a great fit. Groups like Rotary (the community has three: Westchester, Playa Venice Sunrise and Marina del Rey), the Westchester Elks Lodge, Woman’s Club of Playa del Rey and the Westchester Mental Health Guild, are just a few of the most active, and excel in providing members the chance to support worthwhile causes with time, talent or money! All the clubs also offer camaraderie, friendship and a strong sense of purpose. Visit each organization’s website to learn the causes they support and what makes them stand out!

4. Volunteer to Help Better your Neighborhood.

for scholarships on February 2

March:

• LAX Coastal Education Foundation’s Rock Roll & Run, 5K raising money for local schools on March 8

• Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary Club’s BingoFest, raising money for community projects on March 15

May:

• Teacher Eddy Awards, celebrating 41 years of supporting local teachers and education

• Westchester Rotary Annual Book Sale, raising money for community projects during Memorial Day weekend

• AMCS Spring into Wellness, fundraising for mental health on May 22

July:

• Fourth of July Parade, parade down Loyola Blvd. in Westchester on July 4

• Shakespeare on the Bluff,

Community organizations and nonprofits thrive because of the dedication of their volunteers. And many local groups are struggling to enlist a new generation of community members willing to step up to the plate to help plan fundraisers, staff event booths and organize events. If you’re looking to fill a few hours each month with a new hobby, consider checking out the volunteer opportunities with local nonprofits like Grass Roots Neighbors (food insecurity), Westside Pacific Villages (seniors), the Westchester Mental Health Guild (mental health) and Emerson Avenue Community Garden (gardening/green space).

Whether you have an hour to give each month or are looking to make volunteerism a full-time pursuit, the start of a new year is a perfect time to explore your options and start connecting with your hometown!

What’s your favorite way to support your neighborhood?

Share your tips with us at htn@ thehtn.com.

Volunteers from the LAX Coastal Education Foundation and the LAX Coastal Chamber help make last year’s Rock Roll & Run a success. Thanks to sponsors, community members and volunteers, the event raised more than $100,000 for local schools.

Photos by Zsuzsi Steiner