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

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Health & Wellness Tips for 2017...page 11 Yoga Bliss owner, Lara Estrada (second from right), demonstrates a yoga pose in her Westchester studio that specializes in heated vinyasa flow classes for all levels.

Councilmember Mike Bonin addresses the packed audience at the Neighborhood Council’s January meeting, a neighborhood potluck.

There’s no shortage of opportunities to get involved and enhance the community

January is often a time for people to make goals and a list of things they’d like to accomplish in the next 12 months. If one of your resolutions this year is to give back and get involved in your local community but you’re not sure where to get started, Covenant Presbyterian Church is hosting its second annual Community Connections event on Sunday, January 29. The goal is to showcase, in an expo type environment, local groups, organizations and nonprofits that can “help you or help others.” While we recommend stopping by the event to learn what opportunities are available in the Westchester/ Playa area, we’ve also compiled a short list of local groups that can help you accomplish your goal of feeling more connected to your neighborhood in the new year!

1. Attend a NCWP meeting.

The Neighborhood Council of

Westchester/Playa (NCWP) meets the first Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. and all of its meetings are open to the public, and the community is encouraged to attend. The advisory board is made up of 31 members who either live, work or own property in Westchester, Playa del Rey or Playa Vista. Almost every local issue from parking, homelessness, LAX, development, education and more comes before the board, who can take a position and then send their recommendations to Councilmember Mike Bonin or the appropriate city office. The audience is invited to participate by making public comments at the meeting that are considered by the board before they vote. If you’d like to take a more targeted approach, the NCWP has 8 committees that meet regularly or on an as-needed basis. Two of the most popular committees are Planning and Land Use, which meets every third Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. and Education, which meets

YOU CAN HELP!

3. Sign-up for a volunteer opportunity.

Every organization and nonprofit relies on volunteers to help accomplish (continued on page 4)

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

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

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

Church School for Young People during Service.

For more information, please call (310) 677-5597

Locally, there are two Rotary Clubs that are dedicated to making a difference in their communities and the world. The Westchester Rotary Club meets every Wednesday for lunch at 12:10 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza LAX Hotel, located at 5985 W. Century Blvd. in Westchester. The club is involved in variety of service projects, most notably with Vision to Learn, which provides free eye exams and glasses to students in low-income areas and its makeover project. Next month, the club is leading a makeover of Safe Places for Youth (S.P.Y.), a center for homeless teens and young adults in Venice. The club is also responsible for the annual

COVENANT PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

Emergency Food Distribution to those in need. Sponsored by the Westchester Clergy Association

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2. Join a Rotary Club.

book sale that takes place in the Ralph’s parking lot on Sepulveda Blvd. in the spring. For more info, visit rotary-westchester.com. The Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary Club meets every Wednesday morning for breakfast at 7:15 a.m. at Whiskey Red’s, located at 13813 Fiji Way in Marina del Rey. The club participates in numerous projects and events throughout the year, including its Cultural Dinner that honors a community member with the Sunrise Service Award, the teacher mini grant program, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this month and has provided teachers with donations of more than $200,000 since its inception and its pancake breakfasts held at local fire stations. For more info, visit playavenice.org.

Come Join your Friends at

FOOD PANTRY, LAX

Ad donated by the Covenant Presbyterian Church

the fourth Wednesdays of the month at 6:30 p.m. The monthly board meetings are held in the Westchester Community Room, located in Westchester Park at 7166 Manchester Ave. in Westchester. For more info, visit ncwpdr.org.

We have an Orchestra and Adult, Youth and Children’s Choirs. Email: cpoffis@pacbell.net Childcare is provided-For more information, Call (310) 670-5750.

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

This Month Brings You A look inside your HTN Getting involved in your community NCWP, Councilmember Bonin honor leaders 2017 Health & Wellness Tips Creating a map for your life

02 06 11 14

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

Rebecca Hill, Secret Recipes of the Inn

Advertisers’ Directory

Airport Marina Counseling Covenant Presbyterian Church Community Connections Drollinger Properties Food Pantry, LAX Gateway to GO! Jane St. John LA Arts Collective Law Offices of Edgar Saenz LAWA VIP Program Loyola Marymount Marina del Rey Hospital Neighborhood Council

13 02 23 12 02 20 19 21 13 21 04 24 10

Race for Success 19 Rotary Clubs 22 Socal Sports and Fitness 12 St. Anastasia School 07 Vergari and Napolitano 20 Visitation School 08 Westchester Family YMCA 14 Westchester Farmers’ Market 07 Westchester Lutheran 03, 05 Westchester Town Center BID 03 Westside Pacific Village 22 WISH Academy High School 15 Zacha Homes 18

About The HomeTown News (HTN)

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

Connect with the HTN:

Mailing Address: 8939 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Ste. 110 #745 Westchester, CA 90045 Email: westchesterhometown@yahoo.com • Phone: (310) 641-1016 Website: thehtn.com Facebook: facebook.com/thehtn

The deadline for submissions is the 22nd of each month.

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Summer Choir(PreSchool-8th), Rehearsal Sundays Sundays 9 School Open House January 8,a.m. 11:30 a.m. Weekly Worship at 10ata.m. Vacation School Summer Bible Choir Rehearsal

July 29-August Sundays at 9 a.m. 2

Wednesday Worship Show, January 6:00 p.m. Vacation Bible School July18, 29-August 2

7831 S. Sepulveda Blvd.

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7831 S. Sepulveda Blvd. Westchester, CA 90045 Westchester, CA 90045 310.670.5422 310.670.5422 www.wlcs.org www.wlcs.org

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

January 2017 • Page 3

Getting involved (continued from page 2) (continued from page 2) their missions. Some local groups that always welcome new volunteers is Westside Pacific Villages, Meals on Wheels West and the LAX Volunteer Information Professionals (VIPS). Located in Westchester, Westside Pacific Villages is a membership organization that helps seniors 55 and older remain active and in their homes for as long as possible with the help of volunteers. Volunteers are paired with seniors to help provide services like: transportation to medical appointments and the grocery store; to help with simple tasks around the home; help with computer/smart phones and provide companionship. For more information or to sign-up to volunteer, please visit thewpv.clubexpress.com. Whether you’d like to donate your time to deliver one meal a year, or a one meal a week, Meals on Wheels West offers volunteers flexible schedules to help feed the homebound and those in need. Volunteers pick up meals at the organization’s headquarters in Santa Monica and then they deliver food to around 10 people in a neighborhood. The group serves the Westchester, Playa and Marina areas. For more information and to volunteer, visit mealsonwheelswest.org. The LAX VIPs help passengers

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have a positive experience at LAX. Volunteers in the program help alleviate the stress of travelers by providing directions, assisting with finding transportation and providing recommendations for sight-seeing. Volunteers work in groups of two in four-hour shifts once a week or more if desired. The group is having an information meeting for volunteers on Thursday, January 19 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the LAX VIP office, located at 205 World Way at the airport. To RSVP, email vip@ lawa.org.

4. Become a member of the LAX Coastal Chamber.

For more than 6o years, the LAX Coastal Chamber has served as an advocate for the local business community. For small business owners, joining the organization can be invaluable when it comes to networking with other local entrepreneurs and business leaders. The group is more than just a place to network at mixers however. The membership organization offers a variety of opportunities to connect with the neighborhood through its committees including Public Policy and Education; and through volunteer opportunities at events they host like

the Teacher Eddy Awards and the Fourth of July Parade. For those that work at home or are launching a new business, the chamber is also home to LAX Coworking, where people can work for the day or sign-up for a membership to work in a collaborative space with like-minded individuals. For more information on the LAX Coastal Chamber, visit laxcoastal.com.

5. Get involved with the Emerson Avenue Community Garden.

The Emerson Avenue Community Garden (EACG) has the motto “Build a Garden, Grow a Community,” and since 2011, the group has transformed a one acre portion of land at Wright STEAM Magnet into a beautiful garden and a community resource that can be enjoyed by all. You don’t necessarily need to want a garden plot to get involved however. The EACG offers a variety of volunteer days throughout the year, including monthly work days where volunteers can learn about composting, gardening and more. The group has also branched out to special events, hosting movie nights in the garden during the summer and last year held the popular WAM Block Party, that saw a portion of Emerson Avenue closed off to make room for art, local

vendors, bands and entertainment. For more info, visit eacgc.org.

6. Participate in a local event or happening. Every month there is a local group, nonprofit or organization that holds an event that organizers hope will be attended by community members. These events are a great way to meet like-minded people that share similar interests and are interested in being part of working to make the community better. Interested in education? Create a team and sign-up for the 10th annual Race for Success held at LMU on Saturday, March 11. Love farm to table? Visit one of the community’s farmers’ markets (Wednesdays and Sundays in Westchester; Saturdays in Playa Vista and Saturdays in Marina del Rey). Like outdoor activities? Attend a hike, bike ride or community clean-up with Councilmember Mike Bonin. Whatever your passion, if you’re interested in getting involved in 2017, there’s no shortage of opportunities to help enhance the community, make new contacts and have a positive impact on your neighborhood! What ways do you like to get involved in the community? Let us know at westchesterhometown@yahoo.com.

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

January 2017 • Page 5

Business & Nonprofit News

TheHTN.com

Community leaders celebrate Westchester Day being declared at City Hall on December 6. The plaque will be displayed in the community.

Community leaders honored. The Neighborhood Council of Westchester/Playa recognized two area leaders for their dedication to the community at its annual New Year’s potluck on Tuesday, January 3. Margie Hanson was honored for her work with organizations including the Airport Marina Counseling Service and the Jet to Jetty; the Pacific Area Boosters, the LAX Coastal Chamber and Westchester Vitalization. Hanson was also praised for using her expertise in online communications to help promote local businesses and organizations. The Westchester Rotary Club was recognized for its 75 year track record of helping enhance the community through its programs and service projects. The club participates in numerous projects throughout the year including providing scholarships to local students; its makeover project that has transformed the Westchester Senior Center and honoring courageous citizens who have stepped forward to help solve crimes. Councilmember Mike Bonin also recently announced his 2016 Neighborhood Hero honorees. For the local community, Councilmember Bonin selected Judith Ciancimino for Westchester; Julie Ross and Kathy Schwertfeger for Playa del Rey; Manny Cloribel for Page 6 • January 2017

The Westchester Rotary, represented by President Christa Ramey (left), and Margie Hanson were honored with Community Leadership Awards at the NCWP potluck on January 3.

Playa Vista and Julie Zaller for Westchester/Playa del Rey. Ciancimino was recognized for her more than 20 years of service to Westchester, including helping organize the neighborhood council, helping put on the Fourth of July parade since its inception and being active with a variety of community groups like the Elks Club, Ladies of the Elks, the Lariats and the Rotary Club of Playa Venice Sunrise. Ross and Schwertfeger were honored for starting the nonprofit, Playa del Rey Guardians, dedicated to preserving the community from overdevelopment. Both women were cited for being great community partners. Cloribel was chosen for being one of Playa Vista’s pioneers and being active with PVPAL and the NCWP, as well as serving as the President of the Homeowners Association. Bonin said, “He is always there to lend a helping hand, whether it be supporting a fundraiser for Playa Vista Elementary School or volunteering to man the blood drive donations.” Zaller was named a Neighborhood Hero for being a “one woman Kickstarter campaign” that helped raise money for a local man who stopped an attempted kidnapping. Since then, Zaller has not slowed down in her commitment to (continued on next page)

Judith Ciancimino (left) and Julie Zaller were named Neighborhood Heroes by Councilman Bonin.

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

(continued from previous page) better the community, and she founded the Facebook group Moms of Westchester/Playa. The group serves as a way for local moms to network, share resources and join forces to help the neighborhood. City Council celebrates Westchester Day. Community leaders headed down to L.A. City Hall on Tuesday, December 6 to receive a plaque honoring Westchester’s 75th anniversary. The council, led by Mike Bonin, did a special presentation to honor the community and also declare December 6 as “Westchester Day.” The plaque was presented to the Westchester 75th Anniversary Committee; Drollinger Properties President, Karen Dial; and NCWP President Cyndi Hench. The plaque outlines a brief history of Westchester from bean fields and farmlands to the thriving community it is today. It also recognizes pioneers, organizations and the leaders that have helped shape Westchester. The plaque will be displayed in a prominent location (to be determined) in the community. Otis holds Continuing Education open house. Otis College of Art and Design will hold its continuing education open house on Sunday, January 8 from 1 to 3 p.m. At the event, guests can get

information on the college’s programs, attend presentations on digital media and graphic design, meet with instructors and take a tour of the facilities. Guests can also take advantage of a $50 early bird discount for registering for most classes at the event. Otis is located at 9045 Lincoln Blvd. in Westchester. For more information, please visit otis.edu/continuing-education. Flight Path looks for volunteers. The Flight Path Museum is looking for volunteers to help welcome the more than 1,000 visitors that visit every month. Volunteers must be 18 years or older and are needed to greet visitors, lead tours and as docents. The museum is dedicated to spotlighting the legacy of aviation and aerospace in Southern California. Those with a love of aviation and aerospace are especially encouraged to apply. Applications are available at flightpathmuseum.com. The Flight Path Museum is located at 6661 W. Imperial Highway in Westchester (southern border of LAX). Admission and parking are free. Opened a new business? Celebrating an anniversary or other milestone? We want to hear about your business or nonprofit! Email us at westchesterhometown@yahoo.com.

St. Anastasia CATHOLIC SCHOOL

Applications are being accepted for the 2017-18 school year. Call today for a tour!

Join us! Open House & Science Fair Sunday, Jan. 29 10 am-Noon

YOU’RE INVITED

St. Anastasia Open House St. Anastasia emphasizes an academic and spiritual program enhanced by a full spectrum of extracurricular offerings that support the intellectual, physical and creative growth of each child. • • • • •

1-to-1 Chromebook and iPad® program in grades 5-8 Academic Decathlon, Robotics and Mock Trial teams Championship CYO teams Gateway to Art, Performing Arts and Service Projects 7th and 8th grade electives and after-school programs

At the Open House on Sunday, January 29th, you can meet our principal, Mr. Muir, chat with faculty and staff, see what our students are learning at the Science Fair, and take a tour with one of our Student Council Officers. Refreshments will be served. See you there!

Happy New Year! Your farmers have lots of farm fresh veggies, leafy greens, herbs, Fall fruits, eggs, honey, and more - catch us every week, Wednesdays in Westchester Park, Sundays in the Triangle, rain or shine!!

SPECIAL EVENT: HEALTH & WELLNESS FEST 1/22 & 1/25: Kick off the year with a start-fitness demos, wellness community booths, massages and more!

St. Anastasia Catholic School 8631 S. Stanmoor Drive Los Angeles, CA 90045 310.645.8816 http://school.st-anastasia.org

Wed: 8:30 am-1:30 pm @ 7000 W Manchester Ave. & Sun: 9 am-2 pm @ 6200 W 87th St.

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

Enrichment

Technology

Community

January 2017 • Page 7

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

Playa Vista Elementary School principal, Rebecca Johnson (left), learns what grants her teachers were awarded at last year’s Teacher Mini Grant distribution.

Enrollment application for new LAUSD/LMU Middle School. On Tuesday, December 13, the LAUSD Board of Education approved a new middle school option for local students with the LAUSD/LMU Middle School. The school is scheduled to open in the fall of 2017 on the campus of Westchester Enriched Sciences Magnets (WESM). Applications for enrollment will be available on Friday, January 27 with applications due by 5 p.m. on Friday, February 17 at the Local District West Office. Spaces at the school are limited and enrollment is broken up into six groups based on priority. Group 1 is students currently enrolled at Playa Vista Elementary School; Group 2 is students currently residing in LAUSD attendance boundaries within Westchester, Playa Vista, Playa del Rey, Windsor Hills or View Park; Group 3 is students currently enrolled at Cowan ES, Kentwood ES, Loyola Village Magnet, Open Charter Magnet, Paseo del Rey Magnet, Playa del Rey ES or Westport Heights ES; and residing in LAUSD attendance boundaries outside of the areas listed above; and Group 4 is students currently residing within Local District West attendance boundaries, but who are not included in Groups 1-3. A public lottery for Groups 2-5 will take place on Monday, February 27 at 10 a.m. and the results will be posted on the LAUSD Local District West website on February 28. For more information, please visit achieve.lausd.net/Page/11807. WISH becomes LMU Demonstration site. WISH Charter recently celebrated the announcement of a partnership with the LMU School of Education to become a Demonstration School with a ribbon cutting ceremony on December 3. WISH Charter is one of 13 LMU Family of Schools in the local

Westchester/Playa community that is dedicated to promoting student success and education equity. This innovative collaboration between LMU and WISH allows LMU to provide support services and programmatic enhancements to WISH, while giving LMU student teachers an opportunity to gain invaluable experience in real-world classrooms. “We are thrilled to continue to strengthen and build our relationship with WISH Charter Schools,” said Shane P. Martin, dean of the LMU School of Education. We are committed to supporting the students and families of the WISH community with a dynamic inclusive educational model where all learners can thrive and where our students can learn from the WISH instructional model.” Working collaboratively with the WISH community on developing a shared vision, the Demonstration Site will develop and train pre-service educators in best practice methods that can be demonstrated and shared with the education community at large. A dedicated team will be appointed to provide support in the areas of curriculum development, professional development, external partnerships and the development of research opportunities. “We are incredibly excited to partner with LMU and serve as a demonstration site!” exclaimed Dr. Shawna Draxton, Executive Director of WISH Charter Schools. “Through this relationship, WISH will continue to open its doors to the best practices in the field of education, including rigorous, differentiated instructions, parent partnerships, schoolwide positive behavior supports and meaningful instructional experiences.” Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary readies to distribute Teacher Mini Grants. The Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary

Club will distribute nearly $20,000 in grants to local teachers at its 20th annual Teacher Mini Grant ceremony. All local public, private, charter and Parochial school teachers were invited to submit applications for grants for their classrooms and requests ranged from books for elementary school students, yoga mats for high schoolers and musical instruments for middle school students. The Rotary Club raises funds for this yearly event from members and local businesses to help support the schools. The grants will be announced and distributed at the club’s January 18 meeting in conjunction with the LAX Coastal Chamber’s Education Committee. Art scholarship opportunities. There are two local art scholarship opportunities open to local students this month. The Pageant of the Arts Scholarship is open to high school students and is hosted by the Westchester and Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary Clubs. The organizations are looking for students wanting to compete in the arts, dance, music and speech. There will be two winners from each category and the competition will take place on February 4 at LA Arts Collective in Westchester. There is a cash prize of $125 and the chance to head to the district competition on March 11 at LMU to potentially win scholarships ranging from $250 to $1,000. For more information or an application, please visit playavenice.org or rotary-westchester.com. The deadline to submit an application is Friday, January 27. Questions can be directed to Sharma Henderson at (310) 649-1016 or at shenderson@co-opla.org. The Westchester Rotary is also hosting the Jim Bunch Memorial Arts Scholarships open to 8th graders

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

who reside or attend school in the Westchester, Playa del Rey, Playa Vista, Del Rey or Marina del Rey areas. The Rotary Club is looking for candidates talented in the fine or performing arts. Applications will be broken up into three different categories: Art: • Entries must be original work, created by the individual contestant. • Art entries must fall into one of the following categories: painting, drawing, photography, ceramic, sculpture or cultural. • Art entries may not exceed 50 inches in any one direction. Dance: • Limited to one soloist. • Style is limited to classic ballet, contemporary, jazz, hip-hop, tap or cultural. • Performance should be 1.5 to 2 minutes in length. • Contestant may bring pre-recorded accompaniment. Music: • Contestant may be a vocalist, instrumentalist or both. • Musical performance should be 1.5 to 3 minutes in length. • Contestants may be accompanied by piano or guitar or may bring pre-recorded accompaniment. The deadline for applications is Friday, February 24. Candidates must be available to perform or display their artistic entry on the afternoon of March 26 at LA Arts Collective in Westchester. Scholarships in amounts up to $1,000 will be announced at the end of the event. For more information on the competition or to obtain an application, please contact Cozette Vergari at cozetterotary5280@gmail.com. Have something to share about your school? Please email us at westchesterhometown@yahoo.com. January 2017 • Page 9

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

Health and Wellness Tips to Help Kick-off a Healthy 2017!

Westchester YMCA wants to help make resolutions stick Along with singing “Auld Lang Syne” at the start of the New Year, making resolutions is a tradition for millions of Americans. However, while choosing a resolution is easy, sticking to it can be impossible. A YMCA survey found that less than a quarter of respondents kept their resolutions. Many (71 percent) tried, but stated that they fell short of their goals, while 40 percent confessed that they gave up within the first few months, even weeks, of the New Year! This year, the Westchester Family YMCA is encouraging community members to give their New Year’s resolutions a boost by creating smaller, more manageable goals that can lead to success of a larger one. “‘Getting healthy’ is not a goal—it’s too broad,” explains Dawn Everard, Sr. Director of Membership and Healthy Lifestyles. “You can reframe that broad resolution into multiple, more manageable and measurable goals. If you aren’t active at all right now, try to incorporate activity into your routine three days a week, before telling yourself that you’ll work out every single day.” In addition, reframing your goals in a positive way can help you stick to them. For example, you may want to limit your screen time or time spent sitting in 2017, but that can be more manageable if you replace it with something positive like volunteering, walking the dog or setting special time aside for family. “Try not to think about what you’re missing, but rather what you’re gaining. This can make a resolution feel more positive, and therefore more achievable,” says Everard. The Westchester Family YMCA Sr. Director explains that it’s important to not let yourself get discouraged by setbacks. Even though you may experience some missteps throughout the day—or even the week—that doesn’t mean you have to give up. “Nobody got their bad habits over the course of a week, so you’re not

going to change them in a week either!” explains Everard. “Change is a process ,and bad days are part of that process.” Below are four tips the Westchester Family YMCA recommends to help 2017 New Year’s resolutions stick: 1. Start small. Break those big resolutions into small, achievable goals. Instead of cutting chocolate out of your diet for good, vow to only have it a few times a week. Or trade your two sodas a day for one soda and a glass of water. 2. Take it one step at a time. Trying to change too many habits at once can easily lead to frustration. Instead of a New Year’s resolution, make a new month resolution. Focus on that one change for the month and add another (small) change when the new month rolls around. 3. Choose a facility that focuses on a holistic approach to health. When it comes to adding healthy behaviors, like increasing physical activity, it’s important to find a facility that keeps you motivated. Before committing to a membership, take a tour of local gyms to find the best fit for you. 4. Talk it out. It’s easier to stick to your resolutions if you have a partner or friend working toward similar goals. Team up with someone to set your 2017 goals and help each other establish a game plan dedicated to achieving them. Set specific check-ins to help each other out of slumps and to cheer each other during the high points. At the Westchester Family YMCA, there are several Personal Training packages including the “Personal Training for Two,” which promotes buddy workouts. To encourage people to start the New Year off with their health in mind, during the month of January, the Westchester YMCA is offering no joining fee for those signing-up on Mondays. For additional tips or to learn how to get involved with the Westchester Family YMCA, call (310) 670-4316 or visit ymcaLA.org/wc.

A message from the HTN

Happy New Year! As we move away from the parties and overindulgences of the holiday season and turn our focus on our goals for the New Year and healthy living, we thought we’d ask some of our local fitness and wellness organizations to provide some tips

on how to kick-off 2017 with health and wellness in mind. Whether your goals for the next 12 months involve trying a new workout routine, keeping your resolutions, or working on making healthier choices, we wish you the best of luck in accomplishing your goals in 2017!

Yoga Bliss owner, Lara Estrada (center), demonstrates some poses in her Westchester studio with the help of fellow yogis.

Seven easy tips for yoga newbies After falling in love with yoga while taking a meditation course during college, Lara Estrada opened her own Westchester studio Yoga Bliss. The studio, which recently celebrated its one year anniversary, specializes in vinyasa flow yoga, where the room is heated to a tropical temperature of 85 degrees. Estrada says that people of all ages, fitness levels and bodies can benefit from yoga and offers the following tips for yoga newbies thinking of trying a new fitness routine in the new year: 1. Remember that your best effort is enough. New yogis are often worried that they are "not good enough" or that people will be watching them. The truth is that no one really pays attention to what you are doing, and there is no such thing as not being enough. All you have to do is try your best! With practice, your strength and flexibility will improve. If you have any injuries or conditions, you should let the instructor know beforehand so they can make modifications for you. 2. Focus on the breath. More important than any physical poses you are doing is your connection to the breath. Stay consistent with smooth inhales and exhales and just always make sure you are breathing. 3. Listen carefully and watch others. When you are first learning

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

poses and sequences it can be confusing. Listen carefully to the cues the teacher is saying and watch those around you. You'll get it down in no time! 4. Stay committed to your practice. As with anything, progress does not happen overnight. Be consistent and set reasonable goals for yourself, like taking class once a week. As you get stronger, you may want to take more classes each week! 5. Pick a time that works for you and stick with it. We all get busy, so decide what time of day works best for you to take yoga classes and dedicate that time to yourself! 6. Create a goal for yourself! For example, commit to 2 classes per week, or 10 classes per month and then track your progress! 7. Have a yoga buddy. There's nothing better than having a yoga friend to keep you accountable to your practice. Sign-up for classes with a friend and come to class together! Yoga Bliss is located at 6218 W. Manchester Ave. in Westchester and offers early morning, evening and weekend classes. The studio also offers workshops and special events on a variety of yoga-related topics including mediation, massage and sound therapy. For more info, please visit yogablissstudio.com.

Health & Wellness Special Section

January 2017 • Page 11

Random Notes/Opinion

TheHTN.com

Make 2017 your year of fitness success By Jeff Blair Opinion: At the beginning of last year, 40-something Mick DiMaria faced challenges I see every day in my clients: his busy career as an advertising executive took a great deal of time and energy. He is a devoted dad and husband, so he needed time for his wife and sons. Like many, Mick wanted to improve his fitness but time and energy seemed in short supply. He knew he wasn’t 21 anymore, and the challenges of life seemed larger than ever. Mick’s story is not unique; the emotional and time demands of being a parent, spouse and earning a living are real for almost everyone. These demands, along with the passage of time, can decrease lean muscle and increase fat levels. Working in an office environment, our muscles can get tight everywhere, causing discomfort throughout the body. As muscle decreases and fat increases, many of us just start to feel “blah.” The days may even start to run together and life can start to feel like a chore.

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This does not mean life is horrible by any means. We might even feel guilty for worrying about our physical condition when we have so much to be grateful for. However, the physical decline from aging without exercise impacts everything in our life. It impacts our immune system making us more likely to get sick. It impacts our brain and our hormonal system, causing us to feel bad. Life is just not as enjoyable when we are not in good physical shape. It is easy to forget in this technological age how much physical condition plays a role in happiness. This doesn’t mean we need to be in perfect shape to be happy. But regular exercise improves quality of life for everyone I know. Back to Mick’s story: rather than setting an unsustainable goal of losing 20 pounds in a few weeks, Mick set just one goal of losing 20 pounds during 2016. I love this goal because it is something that can be sustained even after it is reached. While Mick’s challenges were common, his approach was unique in many ways. Many “diet goals” help you lose

Health & Wellness Special Section

weight temporarily, but they are patchwork solutions. Once the weight loss goal is reached, they leave you stranded. They are like getting into a rowboat where the oars disappear half-way along the journey. As of this writing, Mick has lost 19 pounds. While losing weight slowly may not sound exciting, it means the weight is much less likely to come back than weight lost over a shorter period of time. It also does not require dramatic eating changes–slow and steady changes can do the trick. No one gains the weight overnight, but there is a tendency to want to lose it overnight. Mick’s other goal was to perform 100 straight pushups. He was able to achieve that as well. Mick improved his appearance, his health and his strength in 2016. Rather than set unrealistic New Year’s resolutions, Mick set goals that were both important to him and achievable. Another cool thing happened to Mick along the way: he expanded his goals. Mick has long wanted to complete a marathon, but his knees wouldn’t allow him to maintain the training. While Mick’s marathon

is scheduled for March 2017, his training is going very well so far. He can now run over 10 miles without any discomfort. A side benefit of Mick’s lower weight and consistent training is his knees are better able to sustain running longer distances. Mick still leads the busy “dad life,” but his fitness level and his outlook have completely changed during the past year. Each day he wakes up about 20 pounds lighter and in dramatically better shape. He is better prepared for the demands of work and family life. If you are looking to finally make 2017 your “year or fitness,” consider modeling Mick’s approach: abandon the crash diets and commit to real change. Give yourself a goal and work hard to achieve it. In twelve months, you will be ecstatic that you did. Before you start this or any fitness routine, consult your doctor. Jeff Blair is 5-time “Best of” Hometown News Personal Trainer. He has operated a personal training studio in Westchester since 2011. Email jeffblair@jeffblairfitness.com for fitness story ideas.

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

Eden Garcia-Balis is the executive director of AMCS and is always looking to offer new programs and services to the clinic’s clients.

AMCS is here to help By Eden Garcia-Balis Opinion: Being in the local community, you have probably heard of the Airport Marina Counseling Service (AMCS) in one context or another, or at least, recognize our name because you pass the clinic on the way to the airport or to get to Truxton’s! Many who know us through receiving services, or volunteering at our events, attending our community fundraisers or by supporting our work with a donation, may be anywhere from intimately familiar with our services or have some vague understanding. Given our fifty-five year presence in the community, we want to make sure that everyone knows what we do and where we are! Yes, the “where we are” may seem obvious (on the corner of La Tijera and Airport boulevards), but really we stretch our work beyond the clinic walls. We not only provide affordable supportive therapy services at the clinic, but also reach out to youth who may not have the means to get to the clinic. With training-therapists on site at Westchester Enriched Sciences Magnets, Wright STEAM Middle School and the Boys and Girls Club of Venice, we are able to support those wanting and needing therapeutic services more readily, thus providing easier accessibility. Without our presence on local campuses, many students would not be able to receive the services they need in order to succeed. So, now that you know the “where we are,” let’s talk about the “what we do.” For many, therapy is a mystery or only for people with “real” problems. First, there really is no mystery to therapy; it’s not something that is done “to” you, but more so done “with” you. The training-therapists at AMCS are professionals who work

under the guidance of licensed supervisors, and they provide a warm, empathic and consistent place for people to figure out how to improve their lives by making healthier choices. People come see us individually, with their partners or with their families or children. We even have various groups to offer people new ways of learning and practicing healthier skills. As for the local high school, middle school and the after-school programs, our goals are very similar: to provide a consistent and accepting environment for adolescents to explore their feelings and find ways to make good choices. Due to the generosity of donors in the community, and to specific grants from local foundations, the therapeutic services provided on campus are subsidized, so there is no cost to the students or their families. With the support of consistent therapy, many of the students are more capable of problem solving, communicate better with others and even improve their grades. We not only are meeting students individually, but also in groups offering support to pre-teen boys adjusting to the demands of middle school, and we even started a new group to support the acceptance of all students regardless of gender or sexual identity. Our therapists celebrate their successes, sustain them through their challenges and help them find a place of consistent acceptance. With the support of therapy, self-esteem improves and the youth of today are better equipped to participate in new ways in the community! In the New Year if you or a family member is interested in talking with one of our therapists or interested in a group class in anger management, self- esteem, mindfulness or more, we are here to help! For more information about AMCS, visit airportmarina.org.

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

Health & Wellness Special Section

January 2017 • Page 13

Creating a map for your life By Fay Craton Opinion: The New Year is ushered in as balloons fall and fireworks explode. There can be a lot of excitement as the year changes. You can use the energy of the transition of one year to the next year as an opportunity to reflect upon your life. You may be thinking to yourself that your life is exactly what you want. If so, take the time to be thankful for all you have. Not all people can honestly say they are experiencing what they desire. Many people are facing a lot of pain, loss, hurt or confusion. It may seem as if life’s problems run your life. The start of a new year is a good time to stop and create a map to guide you over the next twelve months. When creating the map, first imagine a circle of loving energy around you. To create what you want it is important to begin by clearing out from your consciousness the emotions of frustration, stress, depression or sadness. Once you envision the circle, make a list of what is not working in your life. Take a good look at the list. For each item on the list ask yourself: • Can I take an action to resolve the problem? Sometimes it is something you are doing, old feelings you are holding onto, something you are reluctant to express or a condition you need to accept which is keeping a problem locked in place. • Are my behaviors and words contributing to the problem? • Am I responsible for this item or have I assumed a problem belonging to someone else? Sometimes guilt, a sense of loyalty or a lack of understanding of boundaries have us feeling responsible for what someone else has done or is doing. The problem may not belong to you at all. Another person’s perceptions and resentments do not need to be lived by you. • Is the condition or situation something that happened in the past and is not reoccurring in the present time? Memories may stalk you into the future. By clinging to memories instead of acknowledging the present, you may be reliving history instead of embracing peace and contentment today. • How do I benefit by holding onto this state of affairs? This question requires being fully honest with yourself. Think about what you gain by the existence of the problem. Sometimes fear of losing something you get from being in a negative condition can keep you from going forward towards something better. • Am I willing to have this condition or situation change? Take a few days looking at the list and asking yourself the questions. Which questions are you resisting? Often resistance is created by fear or past pain. You may need to obtain some emotional support to look at what you are resisting to acknowledge. The more you resist acknowledging the situation, the longer it will continue to be entrenched in your life and cause you unhappiness. Often, to gain insight into what is happening in life, it is important to tap into more than your immediate thoughts. Page 14 • January 2017

Sometimes considerable information is hidden within your body. Therefore, as you reflect, take a walk, listen to music, garden, dance, do exercise or create art. As you have an insight, make a note on your list. If there are actions you can take, plan a time to take the action and do it. You may discover anger is keeping you stuck. If so, consider letting it go. Releasing anger does not mean you agree with or approve of what created the anger; it only means you are not going to keep reliving it. It is healthy to grieve losses, but it is also important to see and experience other aspects of life. Anger and heartache held within your thoughts and body create pain and illness. Create a second list of the items you are ready to let go of or change. Planned change is often supported through taking an action symbolizing a transformation. One of the easiest ways to take a symbolic action is to burn the list letting what you are releasing go up into smoke. This can safely be done in a fireplace or outside in a barbeque. As the paper burns, reflect upon what it feels like to let go of what you wrote upon the paper. As the paper turns into smoke, you may find it beneficial to think of turning the conditions over to a spiritual presence. Now that you are releasing what you do not want, you are establishing an opening for something new to appear in your life. Once again, imagine the circle of love surrounding you. What do you desire? Reflect upon what you ultimately aspire to have. Working backwards from your goal to where you are today, think about what stepping stones you need to create in order to have the life you desire. Write down what you envision as stepping stones so you can use them as a map toward gaining your desired life. In addition to the words you write, you may wish to create a collage of the life you desire. Or if you are good at drawing or painting, you can create a picture of what you wish to experience. Your written plan and your collage become your map. The best maps are only as good as they are followed. Just creating it is not good enough. You must also build habits. Place what you created someplace where you can see it throughout the year to remind you to move forward and not stay stagnant. Each month, look at the map and adjust your course if you are not on your planned path. My wish for you is that you live a contented life. Joy appears when it is least expected. When looking at your map, remember the circle of love. It is there whenever and wherever you are. You can bring it to mind whenever you desire. Make this new year a time when the past is released and a new desirable experience is embraced. Fay Craton, M.A. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (mfc40011), which is the psychology license specializing in relationships (with ourselves or with others), and she has an office in Westchester. For more info, visit communicationtriangle.com or contact her at (310) 645-6762.

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

January 2017 • Page 15

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

Rotary Club of Westchester The Rotary Club of Westchester meets every Wednesday at 12 noon for lunch at the Crowne Plaza LAX Hotel, located at 5985 W. Century Blvd. in Westchester. The cost of lunch is $25 and validated self parking is free. Guests are most welcome! Reservations are not required. For more information or to reserve a seat at the luncheon, please contact Bob Smith at (310) 643-9350.

LAX Kiwanis Club The LAX Kiwanis Club is looking for new members. The club meets every Thursday at 12:30 p.m. at the Renaissance Hotel, located at 9620 Airport Blvd. in Westchester. Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world, one child and one community at a time. The LAX Kiwanis raise money every year for such causes as providing scholarships, holiday baskets for needy families and back to school shopping sprees. For more information about the club or to RSVP to attend one of their meetings, please email laxkiwanisclub@gmail.com.

January events: Westchester Senior Center Club Membership Drive The Westchester Senior Center, located in Westchester Park, is holding its 2017 Membership Drive starting Tuesday, January 3 and every Tuesday thereafter from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Membership is $10 a year for seniors 50 years and older, and members can take advantage of the programs the club offers including: morning coffee and donuts, daily lunch for $1.75, holiday luncheons, karaoke, card games, Movie Mondays, art classes, entertainment, camaraderie and more. On Monday, January 9 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., stop by the center for Movie Monday and a showing of “Cocoon.”

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TheHTN.com The Westchester Senior Center is located at 8740 Lincoln Blvd. in Westchester. For more info, please call (310) 649-3317.

Marina del Rey Walking Club Get motivated to exercise by joining the free Burton Chace Park Walking Club organized by the County of Los Angeles Beaches & Harbors. The club meets every Tuesday and Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. for a walk around the Marina del Rey Harbor. The club meets at Burton Chace Park, located at 13650 Mindanao Way in Marina del Rey. Please RSVP by calling (310) 3059595.

Weekend Concerts in Marina del Rey Head to Marina del Rey’s Fisherman’s Village for free weekend concerts in January. Guests can enjoy musical offerings from a variety of groups and bands, while enjoying the picturesque Marina and visiting the shops and restaurants inside the center. January’s musical line-up includes: • Saturday, January 7, Jimbo Ross & the Bodacious Blues (blues) • Sunday, January 8, Chazzy Green (jazz-funk) • Saturday, January 14, Blue Breeze (R&B) • Sunday, January 15, Susie Hansen Latin Band (salsa) • Saturday, January 21, Friends (R&B) • Sunday, January 22, 2 Azz 1 (jazzfunk) • Saturday, January 28, JB & The BC Riders (country, rock-a-billy) • Sunday, January 29, Shades (R&B) Concerts take place from 1 to 4 p.m. in Fisherman’s Village, located at 13755 Fiji Way. There is free two-hour parking in the lot with validation. For more info, visit visitmarinadelrey.com/events.

Music Mondays at Runway Playa Vista Playa Vista’s Runway Development is the place to be on Monday nights, thanks to its Music Mondays programming. On Monday, January 9 visit the Runway for a concert headlined by rock band King Shelter. Also performing are In Audela, with a classic indie folk, acoustic soul set, and School of Rock. The Craft Camper, loaded with crafts for all

ages, will also be onsite. The free concert takes place on Monday, January 9 from 5 to 7 p.m. and is sponsored by the Runway. Runway Playa Vista is located at 12746 W. Jefferson Blvd. in Playa Vista. Parking is available in the parking structure on Jefferson Blvd. between McConnell Ave. and Village Drive. Parking is a maximum of $15, with many businesses and restaurants offering parking validation from 60 minutes to 4 hours free.

Soups, Stews and Crackers Cooking Class Start the new year off right by learning some quick, easy and healthy recipes at the January Fresh Foods in a Flash Cooking Class. Instructor Patricia Rose leads the class and will teach attendees how to make homemade chicken stock, Cuban Black Bean Soup, Fisherman’s Soup and more. The cooking class fee is $50 when you reserve by January 9 and $55 thereafter, if space is available. To reserve your spot, please email Patricia@FreshFoodinaFlash.com. The class will take place on Thursday, January 12 from 6 to 9:30 p.m. and is held at the Holy Nativity Community Hall, located at 6700 W. 83rd St. in Westchester.

Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) is hosting its annual Los Angeles Homeless Count for the local area on Wednesday, January 25. Volunteers are needed to help determine the number and scope of people living on the streets and shelters to help the agency target their resources, as well as to help raise awareness for the issue of homelessness. Volunteers participating in the street count will be tasked with doing a visual-only tally of homeless individuals. Volunteers will be trained and provided with the equipment and the materials to participate in the count. The time commitment is generally 3-5 hours. Visit theycountwillyou.org to signup and for more information.

Women’s Club Casino Night The Women’s Club of Playa del Rey is hosting a Wine and Roses Monte Carlo Casino Night fundraiser on Saturday, January 28 from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. At the event, guests can enjoy casino games, live music, an Italian

buffet, raffle prizes and more. Tickets are $55 in advance and $60 at the door. Guests will receive $50 in gaming chips to play. The chips can then be traded in for raffle tickets. Proceeds from the evening will help promote the club’s philanthropic campaigns and help raise money for an elevator to the clubhouse. The event will be held at 8039 W. Manchester Ave. in Playa del Rey. For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact Carol at (310) 881-9283 or via email at cbinnington@gmail.com.

Community Connections Covenant Presbyterian Church is hosting its second annual Community Connections event aimed at showcasing the different community organizations, groups and nonprofits that offer services and volunteer opportunities in the Westchester and Playa del Rey area. The expo will feature more than 50 tables representing service organizations and clubs, senior services, mental health services, education and more. Community Connections takes place on Sunday, January 29 from 1 to 6 p.m. at Covenant Presbyterian Church, located at 6323 W. 80th Street in Westchester. For more information about this event, or if you are interested in participating, please contact Margie Hanson at (310) 306-1453 or email communityconnections2017@gmail. com.

LMU Wine Classic Join LMU for its 36th Annual Wine Classic on Sunday, January 29 from 2 to 5 p.m. The Wine Classic will feature more than 40 premium wineries from California with more than 150 wines available for tasting. Winery representatives will be on hand to share their expertise and answer questions. A selection of rare and vintage wines will be offered in a silent auction during the event. The cost to attend is $90 until January 22 and $115 until January 29. A ticket includes entry, a souvenir wine glass and food that pairs with the wines. Attendees must be 21 or older to attend, and a portion of the proceeds go to LMU scholarships. The event takes place on the campus of LMU in the Gersten Pavilion, located at 1 LMU Drive in Westchester. For more information or to register online, visit lmu.edu/wineclassichn.

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

COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS

Sunday Monday Tuesday

Wednesday

January

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Farmers’ Market @ Playa Vista Concerts @ Fisherman’s Village

1 Open House @ Westchester Lutheran

2 Music Mondays @ Runway Playa Vista

3 Gateway to Go! @ Skyview Parking Lot

4 Westchester Farmers’ Market @ Westchester Park

Marina del Rey Walking Club @ Burton Chace Park

Westchester Farmers’ Market @ Westchester Triangle

Martin Luther King Jr. WISH Academy Open Day House Information Night @ LMU

The Imaginary Invalid @ Westchester Playhouse

Gateway to Go! @ Skyview Parking Lot

Concerts @ Fisherman’s Village

Marina del Rey Walking Club @ Burton Chace Park

11 Westchester Farmers’ Market @ Westchester Park

Gateway to Go! @ Skyview Parking Lot Marina del Rey Walking Club @ Burton Chace Park

The Imaginary Invalid @ Westchester Playhouse

Westchester Farmers’ Market @ Westchester Park

Farmers’ Market @ Playa Vista

12 Marina del Rey Walking Club @ Burton Chace Park

Concerts @ Fisherman’s Village

13 The Imaginary Invalid @ Westchester Playhouse

19 Marina del Rey Walking Club @ Burton Chace Park

Open House @ St. Anastasia Community Connections @ Covenant Presbyterian

14 Farmers’ Market @ Playa Vista The Imaginary Invalid @ Westchester Playhouse Concerts @ Fisherman’s Village

20 The Imaginary Invalid @ Westchester Playhouse

Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count

21 Farmers’ Market @ Playa Vista Monte Carlo Casino Night Fundraiser @ Women’s Club of Playa del Rey The Imaginary Invalid @ Westchester Playhouse

Concerts @ Fisherman’s Village

The Imaginary Invalid The Imaginary Invalid @ Soups, Stews and @ Westchester Westchester Crackers Cooking Class Playhouse Playhouse @ Holy Nativity

LAWA VIP Social @ LAX

15 16 17 18 Westchester Farmers Market @ Westchester Triangle

Marina del Rey Walking Club @ Burton Chace Park

Concerts @ Fisherman’s Village Open House @ Otis

Marina del Rey Walking Club @ Burton Chace Park Gateway to Go! @ Skyview Parking Lot

Wine Classic @ LMU

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January 2017 • Page 17

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

January 2017 • Page 19

Recipes from the Inn: New Year’s edition As we celebrate the New Year, the Inncrowd and I turned to some local kids to find out what their New Year’s resolutions are. First, we sat down with 4 siblings to find out what was on their list for 2017. Mary, age 8, says she plans to “practice skip counting so she can do more multiplication.” She added she also “plans to clean her room less,” but according to her older sister, Lizzie, 11, “Mary actually never cleans her room.” So Mary is off to a great start! Lizzie “plans to work hard and get straight A’s in school.” She added, “To do this, I need to pay more attention in class and stop being distracted by my wildly entertaining seat partner.” Older brother, Jack, 15, says, “I plan to do more homework and less swearing.” He revealed that homework often causes swearing, so this will be quite a challenge! Sister Sarah, 13, says, “I’m going to work on being more careful with my words and more conscious of what I say because I want to create more kindness and less hurt.” Touched by that, the Inncrowd and I reached out to our community and asked several other young people to

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Photo by Liz Hall.

By Rebecca Hill, Innkeeper

With only 4 ingredients, this super easy dip recipe is great with crackers or sliced bread.

share their goals. With all the turmoil in the world, it was interesting to get a child’s perspective on what they’d like to accomplish in 2017.

Natalia, age 3, says her New Year’s resolution is “to draw more.” Maell, 4, says he “plans to play more games.”

Eli, 6, echoed that thought and says his New Year’s resolution is “to play on the iPad longer!” (continued on next page)

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

From the Inn (cont’d) (continued from page 20) Kayla, 6, says she “plans to pick up trash in Redondo Beach so that our world can be nice and tidy.” Quinten, who’s also 6, says his New Year’s resolution is to convince his mom “to let him be home schooled.” Mary Jane, 8, is resolved to make more of her school lunches, “so she can chose exactly what she wants.” And Morgan, 3, has vowed, “to swing more!” Knowing how serious New Year’s resolutions should be, Mateo, 9, says, “I’ll have to think about it.” While Brenda, 11, says her resolution is “to find a way to finally get to meet my family in El Salvador and Guatemala. If traveling to their countries isn’t possible, I will at least Facetime with them more because I love them, and I want to know them.” Strahlia, age 10, says she plans on “working on friendships and improving on my math.” She also added she plans to “make a new start in life,” which is kind of funny given that she’s only 10. But maybe that’s a good thought; maybe no matter how young or old you are, you can always reinvent yourself. If you want to make a new start in life and your resolutions include more play and less work, here’s a recipe that’ll be right up your alley.

This “Blue Heaven Dip” is an Inn favorite. It takes under 5 minutes to make and involves absolutely no cooking. Happy New Year! The Inncrowd and I wish you and yours the very best for 2017! Blue Heaven Dip Servings: 8 servings Ingredients: • 1 package of dried cranberries or Craisins • 4 ounce package of crumbled blue cheese • 1/4 cup of honey • 4 ounce package of sliced almonds, lightly toasted Directions: 1. Mix cranberries, almonds and blue cheese together. 2. Drizzle honey to taste and serve. The Inn’s recipes have been lovingly collected over the past 20 years. Some are original recipes, others are wellknown recipes that have been adapted and some are recipes that have been handed down by our innkeepers’ mothers and grandmothers over the years. Rebecca Hill is an innkeeper at the Inn at Playa del Rey and a published writer. Her stories have appeared in Redbook magazine and in over a dozen Chicken Soup for the Soul anthologies.

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

January 2017 • Page 21

Photo by Shari Barrettt.

In Pictures

Please visit our website for more information: playavenice.org or www.rotary-westchester.com

Next up for Kentwood Players, Westchester’s local community playhouse, is The Imaginary Invalid by Molière. The play is an outrageous satire of medicine and its practitioners. The play opens on Friday, January 13 and runs through Saturday, February 18. Shows are performed on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and on Sundays at 2 p.m. at the Westchester Playhouse, located at 8301 Hindry Avenue in Westchester. A dessert and champagne reception will be held prior to the show on Saturday, January 14 for season ticket subscribers and members attending the performance. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased by calling (310) 645-5156 during box office hours or online at kentwoodplayers.org.

Dozens of neighbors gathered at Playa del Rey’s Triangle Park on Saturday, December 3 for the 13th Annual Toy Drive benefiting Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. Organized by local real estate agent Jane St. John and Flowers by Felicia owner Felicia St. Denis, the drive collects bundles of toys, stuffed animals and games that go to the neediest families at the hospital and allows neighbors the chance to meet each other and socialize. At this year’s event, Councilmember Mike Bonin was on hand to meet with attendees about community issues, and prizes were raffled off to benefit the hospital. The animal shelter drive that is generally held in conjunction with the toy drive will tentatively be held in the first part of 2017.

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

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