Westchester/Playa HomeTown News September 2021 edition

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playa del rey

p l a y a v i s t a • m a r i n a d e l re y

September 2021

WAM IS BACK! live music, family activities and community ...page 4

HAV E TH E C UT E ST P E T I N W E STC H E ST E R / PL AYA? Westchester Arts & Music Block Party volunteers and performers pose in the Emerson Avenue Community Garden.

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

This Month Brings You

help you prom help you prom nization or even nization or even A look inside your HTN

WAM is back with live music and family activities Discovery Center celebrates grand opening Westchester chef shares passion for fusion cuisine Second Annual Pet Photo Contest In Pictures: Westchester Rotary’s Makeover Project

04 16 22 23 26

HOMETOWN STAFF/CONTRIBUTORS Stephanie Davis, Publisher

Jeff Blair, Contributing Writer Fay Craton, Contributing Writer

Lydia Smith, Contributing Writer Consuelo Israelson, Contributing Writer

Front page photo by Zsuzsi Steiner for the HomeTown News.

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.

o t e m o h e b o t d u o r p e r ’ e W . . . s r e n n i w ” f o these “Best

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Mailing Address: 8939 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Ste. 110 #745 Westchester, CA 90045 • Email: westchesterhometown@yahoo.com • Website: thehtn.com • Facebook: facebook.com/thehtn • Instagram: instagram.com/thehometownnews The deadline for submissions is the 22nd of each month.

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September 2021 • Page 3

Photos Zsuzsi Steiner.

September 2021

WAM founder, John Sharpe (center) is ready to welcome the community to WAM on September 18th. Pictured (clockwise from top): Members of the Westchester Lariats; the guitarists from Jetpack; John Sharpe; musician Omar Torrez and WAM committee volunteers Jeff Klarin and Alicia Casilli.

WAM brings the block party to Emerson WAM IS BACK! Avenue for a day of live music and live music, familyfun activities

For Westchester Arts & Music Block Party founder John Sharpe, WAM is all about fun, family, and connection, and he can’t wait to see everyone on September 18th for the sixth annual event.

“Feeling connected and knowing your neighbors beyond the drive-by wave is huge,” said Sharpe. “WAM provides that opportunity to get to know people and creates that community connection for me. Every year, WAM gets better and better, and we tap into something that has the potential to be even greater.”

While WAM is bound to look a little different than in previous years due to the pandemic, Sharpe is confident that people can still come out and enjoy the event in whatever way they feel comfortable. Attendees can expect ten bands, a beer & wine garden, a variety of family-friendly activities, food trucks, community booths, art vendors and more.

Whether you plan on stopping

by WAM to rock out to one band, plan on volunteering all day at a community booth or will be spending time in the beer & wine garden while the kids enjoy activities in the garden, here’s the scoop on what you need to know about WAM 2021: 1. There’s a great line-up of musical acts to enjoy this year.

True to WAM form, organizers have curated an eclectic mix of bands and performers to ensure there’s not a dull moment during the event. Marsh Davis & The Honey will kick-off the day with their Indie/Alternative sound starting at 11 a.m. Throughout the day attendees are sure to hear something they’ll enjoy like the surf rock stylings of Jetpack, Gospel courtesy of Crew12 or pop/punk from A Page Unturned. Make sure to check out the WAM website for the full schedule so you don’t miss out on returning block party favorites like Rose’s Pawn Shop and RAINNE. 2. WAM is cashless, and you’ll

and community need your ID. The Stephanie Younger like planting succulents, coloring Group is once again hosting WAM’s contests and providing giveaways. ...page 4 beer & wine garden. Don’t leave Chances are you’ll know someone your ID at home if you’re planning volunteering at the tables, so make on hanging in the 21-and-over area sure to say “hi” before you pass by. If and enjoying drinks from Firestone you’re interested in having a booth Walker and Sweetzer Cellars. Drinks at WAM, the last chance to sign-up is are $8 each or 3 for $21. You can Friday, September 3 at 5 p.m. also add a donation to your purchase 4. WAM is raising funds for the to support the Emerson Avenue Emerson Avenue Community Community Garden.

Garden. This year, WAM will be Getting hungry? Giant pretzels donating a portion of the proceeds will be sold in the garden for $8, or to support the nonprofit Emerson you can head to the food truck area Avenue Community Garden located to place an order at Cousin’s Maine on the campus of Wright STEAM Lobster, The Tropic Truck, Baby’s Magnet and WISH. The 100 percent Badass Burgers, Dulce Europa Shaved volunteer run green space is used Ice and more. for education, an organic garden and 3. You can support local artists community building. and say “hi” to volunteers at the Even if you’ve been to the garden community booths. Supporting local before, you might want to visit artists is a big part of WAM’s mission, again to view the updates that have so don’t forget to peruse the 40-plus recently been made courtesy of the booths at the event. Expect to see Westchester Rotary Club’s Makeover vendors selling their art, as well as Project. community groups hosting activities (continued on next page)

H AV E T H E C UT E ST P E T I N W E STC H E ST E R/ P L AYA?

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

WAM Committee members show off this year’s limited edition event merch.

5. There’s activities for the whole family. WAM is a family-friendly event, and there’s plenty of activities to keep you entertained besides listening to music. Head to the garden for arts & crafts, games and more hosted by Westchester Parents’ Nursery School. Attendees can also enjoy six-minute portraits courtesy of RE/MAX Westchester and a roaming magician.

6. Cool WAM merch is available for purchase. Show your love for the Westchester Arts & Music Block Party by purchasing a limited edition WAM T-shirt. There are three designs to choose from–the traditional event logo, an ice cream cone mic or a WAM record album–designed

by Westchester design company, Bughouse. If you rock WAM gear in Westchester, it’s sure to be a conversation starter! Shirts will be for sale at the event for $25.

7. The event has updated hours for 2021. WAM will take place on Saturday, September 18 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. In the future, WAM might even be a two-day event.

8. Don’t forget your water bottle.

WAM is doing its part to be eco-friendly and will have a water station for you to fill up your bottles.

9. Follow COVID safety protocols and best practices. Organizers are closely watching event guidelines set forth by the county and city.

While there are not currently any mask mandates for outdoor events of this size, the L.A. County Health Department is strongly

recommending that unvaccinated attendees wear masks when in crowded outdoor settings and that customers wear a mask while standing in line. Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer often, and stay home if you are feeling sick or unwell.

10. Volunteer opportunities are available. WAM takes a lot of work and support to make happen. The event would not be possible without the volunteers who help set up, direct vendors, answer questions and troubleshoot. If you’re interested in volunteering for a two-hour time slot, sign-up on the WAM website.

11. Make sure to check out the sponsor banners hanging on the garden fence. Putting on a large-scale community event is no easy task, and WAM organizers are grateful for the support of sponsors! A special thank you to Platinum Sponsors: The Drollinger Family Charitable Foundation and the Stephanie Younger Group; Silver Sponsor Gerber Kawasaki; and Premium Sponsors Zacha Homes, Decron Properties, Westchester Rotary, LMU, RE/MAX Estate Properties, Playa Venice Sunrise and LAWA. WAM will take place on Saturday, September 18 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Emerson Ave. between 80th Pl. and 80th St. in Westchester. The street will be closed during the event.

As things can change, please visit wamblockparty.org for more info and updates.

BALLOTS ARE DUE BY SEPTEMBER 17 AT 5 PM

PAID FOR BY FRIENDS OF KENTWOOD

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

Robert Milligan, Partner Business, Intellectual Property and Employment Counseling & Litigation (310) 201-1579 rmilligan@seyfarth.com

September 2021 • Page 5

Business & Nonprofit News

TheHTN.com

The Book Jewel turns one.

Westchester’s favorite independent bookstore, The Book Jewel, is celebrating its one-year anniversary on Saturday, September 4. The shop, which opened on August 29, 2020, has a day of special merch and meaningful activities planned to recognize this exciting milestone.

If you’ve been to the store, you’ve probably met shop cat and mascot, Paiges. Paiges merchandise will be available for purchase while supplies last.

At 6 p.m. the community is invited to a poetry reading with Ferne Saltzman.

Saltzman will be reading from her book “Facets of my Soul.” Proceeds from purchasing her book at the event will be donated to “Rotarians Fighting Human Trafficking,” a nonprofit organization dedicated solely to the rescue and rehabilitation of victims of sex trafficking.

Since opening last summer, the store has become not only a place to shop, but also a community hub. The bookstore holds monthly events and book signings, and has also began hosting an in-person science fiction book club and Alphabet Soup, a safe place for local LGBTQ youth to connect and build community.

The Book Jewel is located at 6259 W. 87th St. in Westchester. Visit thebookjewel.com for more info.

Westchester Playhouse welcomes community back to theater.

After more than a year of being closed, the Kentwood Players are ready to perform again at the Westchester Playhouse. The 112-seat theater will Page 6 • September 2021

Photo by Zsuzsi Steiner.

The Westchester Farmers’ Market celebrated its fifth anniversary of being located in the Westchester Triangle on August 15. The day’s festivities included community booths hosting activities, a vintage car show courtesy of the Knights of Columbus, cake and music by The Praties. The market is open every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Book Jewel is celebrating its one-year anniversary on September 4. Here bookstore owner, Karen Dial (right), and manager Sean Moor (left), show off their reading picks during the store’s opening last year.

reopen on September 17 with the comedy “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike.” The play will run through October 10 with performances on Friday and Saturday evenings at 8 p.m. and matinées on Saturday and Sunday

at 2 p.m. The play was originally slated to open in March 2020, so the cast is eager to finally be back onstage.

Tickets are $22 and can be purchased by emailing the box office at boxoffice@kentwoodplayers.org

or by calling (310) 645-5156. All ticketholders must wear a face mask and show proof of vaccination to attend.

While the more than 60-year-old theater was closed, major renovations were made to the playhouse including a CDC-compliant HVAC, new floors, improved ventilation, resurfaced roof, updated lighting and more.

To show off the improvements, the community is invited to an open house on the front patio of the playhouse on Saturday, September 11 from noon to 4 p.m. Attendees will meet with members of the board of directors and other volunteers who will share about the theater and its upcoming productions.

The Westchester Playhouse is located at 8301 Hindry Ave. in Westchester.

For more information, visit kentwoodplayers.org.

Volunteer at the Ballona Wetlands.

Join The Bay Foundation for their upcoming Ballona Wetlands Community Restoration Events on September 8 and September 22 from 9 to 11 a.m.

The foundation’s restoration project focuses on removing invasive iceplant and other non-native vegetation that can inhibit and impede the growth of drought-tolerant, native California plants such as pickleweed, salt grass and alkali weed. The event is capped at 20 participants. Please visit santamonicabay.org/events to sign up.

Face masks, a signed waiver and social distancing are required. (continued on next page)

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

Photos by Neil O’Loughlin.

Decorate your home with a patriotic theme to enter the Second Annual Home Decorating Contest hosted by the LAX Coastal Chamber.

If you’ve been thinking of selling, now could be the time to make a move.

Looking to trade up or trade out?

Call me, let’s discuss.

Playa del Rey’s Ed Aronin is on a mission to send positive affirmations to passersby and put a smile on his neighbors’ faces. Earlier this summer Aronin got the idea to start decorating his Calabar Ave. home with colorful signs with sayings like “Bad day? Change it!,” “Relax” and “Life is Art. Paint your dreams.” Since then, he’s added paintings of fun locales like Paris, London and beaches around the world. Aronin, who has lived in Playa del Rey since the 70s and was named the Westside Coach of the Year by the L.A. Times in the 90s, now has more than two dozen pieces of art displayed in front of his home. He says that after purchasing his latest sign reading “It’s done,” that he thinks he’s accomplished what he’s set out to do: bring some much-needed joy to the community and a conversation starter to his block.

(continued from previous page) Chamber gets ready to honor award-winning members.

The LAX Coastal Chamber will host its annual installation gala on September 24. The event will be held at the Marina del Rey Marriott Hotel and is the business organization’s chance to say “thank you” to outgoing chair Jonathon Lonner of Burns & Bouchard and welcome incoming chair Rae Lamothe of Golding + Lamothe.

The event is also an opportunity to recognize local businesses that have made an impact in the community over the last year.

This year’s honorees include: Honorary Mayor’s Award to Stephanie Sampson, LAWA; Outstanding Committee Award to Binge Live; Outstanding New Member Award to Michele Kawamoto Perry, The Forward Project; Outstanding Small Business Award to Darrow’s New Orleans Grill, Norwood Clark; Corporate Partner of the Year Award to Laura Ware, LINX; Jim Bunch Spirit Award to Kristin Hynes, Marriott; Hugo Francis Volunteer of the Year Award to Andrew Chereck, Bryan Cave Leighton & Paisner; Helmsman Leadership Award to Chad Maender, LAX Coastal Chamber of Commerce and Chairman’s Award to Joe Coleman, Decron Properties.

Amy Frelinger DRE# 01484711

O 424.281.7603 M 310.951.0416 amy.frelinger@elliman.com

Limited tickets to attend the event are available. Visit laxcoastal.com for details.

LMU welcomes students back to class after more than a year away.

LMU welcomed back more than 8,500 undergraduate and graduate students to its Westchester and Playa Vista campuses on August 30th after two-and-a-half semesters of remote learning.

The incoming class includes 1,700 students from a record 19,000 applicants with an average 3.9 GPA. The university also reports that Black students make up nine percent of first year students–a 50 percent increase from fall 2020–and that Latinx students make up 25 percent of first-years, a 25 percent increase.

As part of its COVID-19 safety protocols, the university requires that all students, faculty and staff are vaccinated and wear masks indoors.

Students returning to LMU will be welcomed with new on-campus residences, and will soon get to enjoy the open-air Drollinger Family Stage, which will be home for live theatrical and dance events, concerts and lectures.

Have info to share about your business or nonprofit? Email us at westchesterhometown@yahoo.com for a chance to be featured.

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

September 2021 • Page 7

SCENE Back to School in Playa Vista

Our 3 Essential Stops for Back to School in Playa Vista Back to school time is here, and Playa Vista is a great place to knock out your supply checklist to find those last minute essentials! One visit to Runway can ensure you score extra points with the kids and that their backpacks are filled will all the supplies to have a successful school day and a nutritious lunch!

1

Whole Foods

We all know and love Whole Foods, especially when they seem to know EXACTLY what we need. Stop into the market to see their Melissa & Doug display with all kinds of helpful learning tools from note pads to washable markers and more. Also on display are the reusable, washable lunch boxes that kids love. With the variety of items on display, the selection of healthy foods and packed deli cases, Whole Foods may be the only stop you need to make to cross off the back-to-school lunchtime list.

2

CVS Playa Vista

Psst...CVS is the cheat code we all need in Playa Vista! You’ll be checking off items on your classroom supply list in no time with just one visit. All of the must-haves to fill your little’s backpack and school desk are on display from binders and folders to art supplies and so much more! Plus, the store excels in keeping all the shelves stocked so there’s plenty of selection–just don’t let your kids get distracted in the toy aisle!

3

Urbanic Paper Boutique

For those that want to do a little extra, meet Urbanic Paper Boutique in Free Market! It’s the cutest little shop and really is something special.

When you visit, you’ll find a curated selection of amazing cards, stationary, desk accessories and more. Peruse the store for handpicked products from the best designers, and even some that can only be found at Urbanic. You’ll definitely want to add this to your back to school list for that special little student of yours!

DRE# 01972897 Page 8 • September 2021

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

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www.lifeadjustmentteam.com | 4551 Glencoe Avenue, Suite 255, Marina del Rey, CA 90292

(310) 572-7000

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

September 2021 • Page 9

By Cozette Vergari Some of you may share my longtime dream of being able to travel in a time machine, which would propel me backwards in time, while standing at the same location throughout the ride, to observe what was happening at that exact spot 100 years ago, 1,000 years ago and on and on. To share what that might look like in our local community, as you read, I will travel all the way back to 65000 B.C. and move forward in time from the beginning.

Current prehistoric migration theories consider the possible links between our local native populations to Northern China and Siberia as far back as 65000 B.C. There is a greater degree of certainty surrounding the theory of migration from Asia circa 25000 B.C., as well as migration in 13000 B.C. across the ice bridge that covered the Bering Straits between Asia and North America. In fact, there is evidence of settlement on the islands off the coast of Southern California as early as 12500 B.C. Recorded history unveils evidence discovered in the 1930s excavation of Ballona Creek, when the Army Corps of Engineers created a nine-mile-long flood control channel to protect the growing metropolis from flooding in the Los Angeles basin. The natural creek once meandered through the Ranchos of the Los Angeles basin.

During the excavation, partial remains of the “Los Angeles Man” were discovered in a storm drain.

They had unearthed the mineralized cranium of a human skull. While radiocarbon dating indicated an age of approximately 23,600 years old, current theory suggests, due to lack of other supporting evidence of human habitation along the Ballona Creek, the Los Angeles Man is likely to have settled here circa 8000 B.C. There is further evidence of a shoreline economy within the footprint of the Westchester, Playa del Rey and Playa Vista communities as far back as 7500 B.C. There is also evidence of the Chumash Native American population, who spoke the Hokan language and who survived as hunters of land, sea and air, within this same footprint. There is evidence of a neighboring Tongva Village

Page 10 • September 2021

The Discovery Center’s mural depicts the early history of the Westchester/Playa area.

settled near the Centinela Springs flowing through Westchester, Playa del Rey and Playa Vista circa 5000 B.C. The Shoshone displaced the Chumash, circa 2000 B.C., migrating from the Mohave Desert to the Los Angeles Basis, which they named the “Land of the Smoke.” The area was already polluted from the campfires of the people who lived there.

They spoke Uto Aztecan, and were considered experts in irrigation and the Canalino culture. They traded acorns, salt, fish, baskets, dogs and clothing with other coastal traders for the items they needed in return, such as obsidian for spears and arrowheads.

There is some evidence of foreign explorers arriving circa 1200. A Spanish novel, written in 1510, chronicles Spain’s conquest of what is now Mexico and California and speaks of New Spain and the Island of California. In 1542, Spanish Explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo was first greeted by the native population at Santa Catalina Island and entered the mainland through the Baya de los Fumos (Bay of Smokes), believed to be present-day San Pedro Harbor.

During the period of Spanish colonization and the founding of

the mission system, in particular the building of the Mission of San Gabriel, circa 1770, the Tongva society became known as the Gabrielinos and today are often referred to as the Gabrielino-Tongva Tribe. By 1800, the native population death rates nearly doubled due to the new foreign settlers.

After a hard-fought Mexican War of Independence from 1810 to 1821, Spanish rule ceded to Mexican rule. And as soldiers were awarded land grants for their service in this war, within our Westchester/Playa footprint, Mexican soldier Antonio Avila was granted 40,000 acres and acquired Rancho Sausal Redondo in 1837. Rancho Ballona was acquired by Ygnacio and Augustin Machado and Felipe and Tomas Talamantes in 1839.

The Centinela Adobe, which still sits at the eastern edge of Westchester, was the first home to be built in our local community footprint (and all the way south to the Redondo Beach area) was built in 1829 by Ignacio Machado.

After the U.S. invaded Mexico, which included Rancho Sausal Redondo and Rancho Ballona, the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo gave Alta, California to the U.S. and

“California” becomes a U.S. Territory.

It took two years of contentious debate before statehood was granted in 1850.

Stay tuned for next month’s continuing time-machine journey. In the meantime, visit the Westchester/ Playa Historical Society Discovery Center in the Westchester Triangle on Sundays between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. On Sunday, September 5, the Discovery Center will be showing “Eminent Domain: An L.A. Story”

by Leo Sichi at 9:30, 10:15, 11 and 11:45 a.m., with the last showing at 12:30 p.m. Sichi is a Westchester resident and student at Loyola High School. His 15-minute video has been recognized by the 2021 All American High School Film Festival. Learn more at wphistoricalsociety.org.

Cozette is an attorney and lifelong resident of Westchester. She is the President of the Westchester/Playa Historical Society. 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.

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

Caring & Comfortable Dentistry

Dr. Michael Parsons

- In Westchester Since 1981 -

(310) 670-0902 Welcome to our beautiful new state of the art office near LAX 8930 S. Sepulveda Blvd., #210 Los Angeles, 90045 Free Parking Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

September 2021 • Page 11

LAUSD students return to school with new protocols

By Nick Melvoin, LAUSD Board Member We are settling into a new year in the Los Angeles Unified School District, and as your LAUSD School Board Member, I was thrilled to welcome back so many students to campus for full-time, in-person instruction for the first time in over a year. The excitement, resilience, and adaptability of our school communities was palpable over these first few weeks, and we will all continue to navigate a different kind of return to school than usual for our students and families.

Even with increased case rates due to the Delta variant, we know that the best place for the safety and well-being of the vast majority of our kids is to be is back in the classroom.

That’s why we implemented strong, multi-layered protocols to keep kids in the safest possible learning environment. These layers include an employee vaccine mandate, schoolbased vaccination clinics available to all eligible community members, mask-wearing, weekly testing on school campuses, daily health screenings, upgraded ventilation in every school building, more frequent disinfecting routines and an online learning option for families who need it.

We will continue working with school communities to streamline

Page 12 • September 2021

New Westchester Enriched Sciences Magnet Principal Terri Grinner discusses school opening with Nick Melvoin and Westchester Community of Schools Administrator Jennifer Sullivan.

these processes and make sure that students and families are at the center of our decisions. Our updated quarantine protocols for students and staff who test positive for COVID-19 or have come in close contact with a positive case follow the County’s public health guidelines. These take into consideration vaccination status and any present symptoms.

In the event that a child does have to quarantine, we have worked with state legislators and labor partners to provide synchronous instruction via Zoom and keep students as connected to their classroom and supported by their teachers as possible.

I pushed for these policy updates to help maximize continuity of learning for students while maintaining the highest health standards set by medical experts. We will continue to monitor risk levels and revise any protocols as health conditions evolve.

While we continue to face the challenging circumstances of the present, we are also focused on the critical efforts to create a brighter future for our students. This includes a strategic plan to invest the $7 billion facilities bond that voters passed last year in expanding early education opportunities, creating more collaborative and innovative

learning spaces, replacing aging facilities with modern, sustainable infrastructure, increasing outdoor learning experiences and closing the digital divide.

This year has also brought historic new investments to support our students’ recovery from this crisis.

We are using those dollars to equitably meet the needs of our school communities, with more access to mental health services and socio-emotional learning, academic initiatives to promote things like early literacy and college readiness, individualized tutoring and mentoring resources, art and music programs and more. And we have begun our Superintendent search with initial community engagement efforts as we look for the right person to lead our schools on the path to success.

Our kids have been through a lot, but above all, they have shown us the magnitude of their resilience. As we navigate the unique set of challenges of another unpredictable school year, I will continue pushing for students and families to be at the center of our decisions to meet their needs and get through this pandemic, together.

Nick Melvoin is a former LAUSD teacher who has served on the Board of Education since July 2017. Follow him on social media at @nickmelvoin.

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

Ground in our Catholic tradition, we’ve been helping shape young lives in this community for more than 60 years! Thank you to our many community supporters including: LMU Family of Schools LAX Coastal Chamber of Commerce William H. Hannon Foundation Msgr. Royale Vadakin Arts & Education Foundation Onward Leaders and the Smet Foundation St. A’s Parishioners Consultative School Board PTO School Parents

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

September 2021 • Page 13

COME JOIN US!

WESTCHESTER ARTS & MUSIC BLOCK PARTY September 18, 2021 11am–9pm Emerson Avenue at W 80th Street THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! PLATINUM The Drollinger Family Charitable Trust Foundation • Stephanie Younger Group GOLD Gerber Kawasaki Wealth Management PREMIUM Decron Properties • Los Angeles World Airports • Loyola Marymount University Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary Club • RE/MAX Estate Properties • Westchester Rotary Club Zacha Homes BASIC Neighborhood Council of Westchester Playa • Playa Vista Orthodontics • SoCal Gas Westchester Family YMCA IN KIND Bughouse Art & Design • The Hometown News • LAX/Coastal Chamber of Commerce • KXLU 88.9 WPNS Cooperative Learning Center Special thanks to: Firestone Walker Brewery and Sweetzer Cellars for donating product for our beer & wine garden and to Mike Bonin, Councilmember, 11th District and his office, for their support!

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

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

September 2021 • Page 15

The Westchester/Playa Historical Society (WPHS) celebrated the grand opening of its Discovery Center on August 24th. More than 50 community members came out to congratulate the recently formed nonprofit on their work launching the center, which features a dynamic mural that depicts local history from 8000 B.C. to today and houses their archives that includes thousands of photos ready for visitors to view electronically.

During the grand opening, representatives from the LAX Coastal Chamber, City Attorney Mike Feuer and City Controller Ron Galperin joined WPHS board members in cutting a ceremonial ribbon.

“It is so great to see the opening of the Westchester/Playa Historical Society Discovery Center come to fruition,” said WPHS President Cozette Vergari. “The board has worked so hard.

Their passion to make the Discovery Center a reality has been a collective drive to bring this vision to our surrounding community.”

The Discovery Center is open Sundays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. during the Westchester Farmers’ Market and by appointment. The center is located in the Triangle at 6207 W. 87th St. in Westchester.

Visit wphistoricalsociety.org for more info.

Pictured (Clockwise from top): 1. WPHS President Cozette Vergari and Chamber Honorary Mayor Marsha Wietecha share ribbon cutting duties.

2. WPHS sponsor Amy Nelson Frelinger poses with board member David Russell.

3. WPHS supporter Patty Crockett and Cozette Vergari celebrate the center’s opening.

4. Discovery Center sponsors Joe and Maria Davis get ready to learn more about local history.

5. The Del Rey Community Jazz Band entertains the crowd.

6. Tomat Kitchen co-owners Natalie Dial and Harry Posner join in the festivities during the grand opening celebration.

Page 16 • September 2021

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

PAT R I C I A C R O C K E T T A N D C H A D C O L E P R E S E N T: AN UPCOMING LISTING. CALL US FOR AN APPOINTMENT

P L AYA D E L R E Y SOLD FOR $1,750,000

RECENT SATISFIED CLIENTS

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

WESTCHESTER SOLD FOR $1,300,000

September 2021 • Page 17

By Cory Birkett, Guest Columnist The Community Plan Update for Westchester/Playa is proposing some zoning changes to parts of our neighborhood that may affect our homes, neighborhood character and daily commutes.

The Community Plan is a blueprint from the Los Angeles City Planning Department that sets forth neighborhood-specific goals related to housing and development.

Community Plans are important because they inform developers and residents where development will be permitted. The Plan identifies and provides for economic opportunities, and maintenance of significant environmental resources. It also seeks to enhance the community identity and recognize the unique character of neighborhoods. Together, the City Zoning Code and the Zoning Maps identify the specific types of land use and development standards applicable for land use within the Westchester and Playa del Rey area.

City Planning released the first Draft of the Community Plan Update in July 2020 and held online information

sessions to inform stakeholders. Inperson outreach was not possible due to the pandemic. Last year, City Planning solicited stakeholder feedback and they have now compiled a summary of notes from our community members about what we liked and disliked about the first Draft of the Community Plan. In a summary of the City’s notes, they noted that 59 percent of stakeholders in Westchester/Playa strongly disagreed with City Planning’s first draft of their “Emerging Vision Statement” and 50 percent of the community strongly disagreed with their “Guiding Principles.”

Some of the proposed zoning changes that residents were most concerned with were proposed in areas bordering major corridors like Manchester Ave., La Tijera Blvd., and Airport Blvd. In some of these areas in Westchester, City Planning has proposed a zoning change from R1 or R2 with single family homes and duplexes to R4 or R5 for dense residential and/or commercial development. One goal of the Community Plan is to create more affordable housing opportunities,

and according to feedback, residents felt these zoning changes would actually remove affordable housing options in some of the most diverse neighborhoods by replacing them with high density development.

City Planning is also proposing elevating Manchester Ave.’s identity as an active, walkable street corridor with retail and housing options. This zoning change would affect adjacent R1, R2 and R3 neighborhoods currently zoned with single family homes, duplexes and small apartment buildings and allow high density mixed-use (housing and retail) development.

Some of the concerns residents have expressed were that dense mixeduse development removes existing affordable housing options and would create inappropriate transitions between “high-scale” development and “lower-scale” residential areas.

In addition, the market rate housing created by upzoning would not adequately address the affordable housing crisis.

Other areas that City Planning is targeting for zoning changes include the Triangle area in Osage; the eastside of La Tijera from Kittyhawk to Belford;

Photo by Zsuzsi Steiner.

Community Plan Update could change zoning for multiple parts of Westchester/Playa

Guest columnist Birkett recently shared information on the Community Plan update to the NCWP.

Flight Ave. between 80th and 85th in Westport Heights; and Lilienthal Ave. between 86th Place and Yorktown, just west of Airport Blvd. These neighborhoods are currently zoned R1 and R2 for single family homes or

(continued on page 25)

FLU & COVID Vaccines now available COVID rapid test & at home rapid test

Page 18 • September 2021

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

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

September 2021 • Page 19

TheHTN.com

Three ways fitness is like football

By Jeff Blair

Opinion: September brings the start of football season. As a former football player, a new season always evokes memories of colorful leaves decorating the trees and crisp autumn game days from my youth in Kentucky. Optimism and excitement fill the air. I have also always loved the psychological dynamics of a football team facing challenges, overcoming adversity and achieving success. It recently struck me that football and fitness have some nonobvious similarities. If you are not a football fan, do not worry. You should still find some helpful ideas, and no tackling will be required.

Here are three ways fitness is like football.

1. Many see the end result, but almost no one sees the practice to achieve the result.

When people watch a game on television, they see exciting plays and cheering crowds. They don’t see the consistent commitment needed to make things look so easy. Before a quarterback throws a touchdown to his favorite receiver on game day, the two have practiced that play dozens of times.

If someone works out consistently, they might gain strength and look 10 years younger than their age. They might be able to go on scenic hikes overlooking beautiful mountains.

They might achieve certain appearance goals or even feel happier as endorphins and other chemicals are released in the body.

People see these desired results, but few people see the person getting up early to get to the gym.

Not many see the person juggling their schedule to make up a workout because they worked late the previous night. The reality is that not many people love to exercise. Like so many things in life, achieving the desired payoff involves navigating trade-offs. Working out consistently might mean less television time and getting to bed earlier on school nights. For those who are able to find a way to make it work, the payoff is more than worth it.

2. Focusing on progress is the most effective mindset for both. Did you know only one team—the 1972 Miami Dolphins–has gone through an entire NFL season without losing a game? I mention that for two reasons. First, the Dolphins are my team. Second, perfection is rarely an attainable goal in anything. Ninetynine percent of teams in NFL history were not perfect. A great football coach simply keeps the team focused on getting better each week. If a team consistently improves, they can achieve real success.

Fitness is no different. People start at different levels. Many experienced major fitness setbacks during COVID,

but almost everyone can improve their fitness level through consistent exercise. I often encourage people to consider progress that might not include a scale. You can get stronger.

You can improve your mental health.

You can improve your ability to perform daily tasks. You can elevate your quality of life. None of these forms of progress require a weigh-in.

In fitness, if you aren’t in good shape today, that is okay. Make a commitment to start. Then show up consistently. If you aren’t sure what to do, find a coach or other commitment tool like exercise groups or a commitment agreement. Making your workouts an appointment on your calendar rather than something you do when you feel up to it is usually the key to success.

3. Both are best viewed as marathons rather than sprints.

In football, your team can lose the first game or two. Players and coaches will experience personal challenges. Things rarely go perfectly. If a team maintains their focus, they can overcome these hurdles and enjoy a very successful season.

Fitness can be the same. People gain weight. People get busy at work. Kids get sick. Workouts are sometimes missed. That is real life for most people. Rather than throw in the towel, stay focused on the benefits of your exercise program.

Maybe you want to be there for your kids’ weddings. Maybe you want to ride a bike across Europe. Maybe you simply want to get back to your pre-COVID fitness level.

Rather than seek out quick fixes, commit long-term. Look for sustainable strategies. Put one foot in front of the other. Accept the imperfection of the journey.

Consistent exercise can improve your quality of life better than almost anything else you can do.

Jeff Blair (MS, CSCS) has been a certified personal trainer in Westchester since 2002.

Reach out to him at jeff@ socalsport.com for article comments or questions.

YOU CAN HELP! FOOD PANTRY, LAX

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

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Page 20 • September 2021

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

Photo by Zsuzsi Steiner.

Random Notes/Opinion

Shift your emotional pain into contentment

By Fay Craton

Opinion: Crash! Did you see that?

The dinner plate just leaped right out of my hands. Bad plate. What a mess you caused. The idea of a plate leaping out of your hands might seem silly, but it is not so far off from other situations you might feel caught in which are linked to circumstances outside of yourself. Sometimes it might seem as if everything is working against you. It could seem as if not getting enough attention, or recognition, or love is all the fault of something or someone else. It might seem as if all of your happiness is tied to other people doing what you want them to do. Because of “them” you seem to constantly have empty numbness inside of you. It hurts.

At this point some folks might decide to ease the emptiness by withdrawing, or by using a substance or doing something risky. Others become determined (either directly or passively) to force another person into doing what they want done. Some begin seeking validation that the world is conspiring against them. Instead, I encourage you to simply stop. None of these destructive actions will make you happy. There are better ways to shift the pain into contentment.

According to research, only about 10 percent of what happens outside of you has any impact on your happiness. The studies done around the turn of the century indicate your happiness is completely within your control about 40 percent of the time.

Supposedly 50 percent of happiness is tied to your genetics. I question if the percentage is really this high because after the studies were conducted much evidence has surfaced about how the things you do–such as the food you eat, or how much exercise you do–impacts your genes. This is very important so I will say it again: 40 percent or more of your happiness is within your control, while situations outside of your control only account for about 10 percent. Your state of mind is more within your control than within the control of someone or something else. By increasing your understanding of what is in your control and taking action to transform your life experience from the inside out will move you toward contentment and a greater degree of happiness much more effectively than destructive actions.

What is in your control? Your own actions, words, behaviors, food choices and substances you place into your body, as well as perspectives

you hold within your own being are in your control. Much of what is in your control probably is “running on automatic” through past conditioning.

You may have relinquished your control to habits, what you are accustomed to, repetitious thoughts from your past, anxious thoughts about your future, feelings of unworthiness, feelings of obligation, feelings of personal rights worth more than the rights of another and more ingrained thinking picked up from your lifetime of experiences.

Are you willing to change what is in your control in order to gain a sense of contentment? It takes strength and grit to uncover what is running on automatic and take action to shift your responses to something more life enhancing. One way to start to learn how to make the shift is to take one of the free or low-cost courses about happiness available on the internet. One course, the “Science of Happiness” is available from UC Berkeley. Another course is Yale’s “Psychology and the Good Life.”

Both courses are based on Positive Psychology, which is one way–but not the only way–to move from pain into a better place.

Beyond the courses is your willingness to address past conditioning. What works and what does not work in your life? What is your role in making it work? What new habits will be beneficial for you to develop? Do you have quality connection with others? How do you personally contribute to increasing the quality? There are many psychology theories about happiness. The most valuable are those which help you build the best possible relationships with significant people in your life.

My wish is for you to find quality life-enhancing perspectives within you. I wish for you to learn skills in developing valuable connection with others. Life is happening right now.

Not in the past and not in the future.

You are the one who can make today satisfying. I encourage you to work with a therapist who can help you ease emptiness and release emotional pain. You are valuable and deserve authentic contentment found inside of you.

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). She provides video-based counseling and is located in Westchester. If you have any questions, please contact Fay at (310) 645-6762.

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

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September 2021 • Page 21

By Lydia Smith

Kitano shows off some of his favorite dishes in his Osage-area backyard.

Page 22 • September 2021

Michael Kitano loves mixing flavors and cuisines, so it’s no surprise that when he decided to launch his new catering company, Hapa Meals, he would pull together what some might call unlikely pairings to create unique dishes with a twist. Asian inspired Chicken Parmesan? Hawaiian Meatloaf? Poke Nachos? Korean Style Tostadas?

Yes, please!

Kitano’s love for cooking and inspiration to get creative with recipes began by watching the original Iron Chef on TV. Iron Chef showed him that there is room for experimenting in the kitchen.

Looking for an outlet to express himself, he enrolled in Le Cordon Bleu in Orange County. Even at Le Cordon Bleu, his yearning for creativity and innovation was met with some resistance.

“One Cordon Bleu instructor asked all of the students to state two foods that go together,” said Kitano.

“Students said things like, ‘spaghetti and meatballs’ or ‘bacon and eggs.’ I said ‘chicken and waffles’ and even the instructor was shocked! They had never heard of putting chicken and waffles together!”

After graduating from Le Cordon Bleu, he got a job working at Disneyland. He quickly discovered that this position didn’t allow any deviation from recipes and was definitely not the type of cooking he had hoped to be doing after culinary school. Everything in the kitchens was prepackaged, premeasured and carefully designed. Kitano knew that this was not the vision that he had as a chef and he left after two years. He bounced around from restaurant to restaurant for a while until he landed in a traditional French restaurant. This eatery utilized the French Brigade System or Brigade de cuisine, a system of hierarchy found in restaurants and hotels employing extensive staff. The concept was developed by Georges Auguste Escoffier in 1846 and is still used in many kitchens today.

So, Kitano began as a dishwasher and worked hard to move up through the ranks and ended up being trained by a French saucier.

His mentor spoke no English and Kitano spoke no French, but he learned the impeccable technique that is required to make the five French mother sauces: béchamel, velouté, espagnole, hollandaise and tomato. This classical sauce

making technique would later earn Kitano many awards in competition cooking.

Kitano then moved to Pennsylvania because his family was opening a restaurant there and he knew he could help.

When things didn’t work out as planned, he wanted to get back to his Southern California roots.

Originally from Culver City, he was looking for some place close to home and ended up in Westchester.

Unfortunately, after so many ups and downs in the restaurant world he felt like his “culinary flame died out.” He stopped cooking for a time and went to work for his father.

After a few years, he began volunteering to make meals at the Venice Free Methodist Church for their large events. He learned what it took to cook for big groups of people, and he was finally allowed the freedom to try out new recipes and experiment with his idea of fusion cuisine. He quickly discovered that people loved his food, and his culinary flame started to re-ignite.

Kitano took pleasure in cooking for friends and family, and his food was getting rave reviews, but then 2020 hit and so did COVID. With no gatherings to try out new recipes or competitions to enter, he used quarantine to learn everything he could about grilling. Through YouTube videos and lots of trial and error, he is now a self-taught pit master and expert on smoking meats. Char-Griller took notice and now he is sponsored by the company, which sends him their newest grills and smokers to try out.

Sparked by his newfound skills, he launched Hapa Meals in February of this year. The catering company is based out of his home and customers can place orders online and pick up their meals curbside.

The future of Hapa Meals includes brewery tours, as well as other popup events.

Over the years, Kitano has enjoyed entering competitions and as early as 2015, began winning blue ribbons for his cooking in numerous categories at events. In 2015, his bean dip took first place at the Orange County Fair, and he has won ribbons at the Orange County and Los Angeles County Fairs for dishes like deep fried Spam musubi and kimchi.

He added to his ribbon collection (continued on page 25)

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

Photos by Neil O’Loughlin.

Westchester chef shares passion for fusion cuisine

WE KNOW WESTCHESTER/PLAYA HAS THE CUTEST PETS!

PET CON TEST! Show off your photo skills and capture a picture of your pet doing what it does best: being adorable, funny or hanging with your family.

Email us your photos by September 15th for a chance to be featured in our October edition and win a gift basket courtesy of Wallis Annenberg PetSpace!

Photos will be uploaded to facebook.com/thehtn for the community to enjoy and vote for their favorites.

Our fun contest is meant to raise awareness about pet adoptions, while showcasing how pets can be an awesome addition to your family.

More details: thehtn.com Send photos to: westchesterhometown@yahoo.com Thank you to our contest partner Annenberg PetSpace!

Page 24 • September 2021

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

Community Plan Update (cont’d) (continued from page 18) duplexes. City Planning is proposing these areas be rezoned as “Medium Residential Core,” which would allow for three to 10 stories and up to 10 units per lot. Residents living in Westport Heights and Osage expressed concern that these zoning changes would allow for large scale development literally right next to single family homes, with inadequate transitions and a loss of neighborhood character. Other concerns expressed by residents were that these changes would decrease quality of life, increase traffic and decrease property values for residents near zoning changes. The primary concern expressed with all of these zoning proposals is that our community would potentially lose existing affordable housing options like duplexes and small, low rise apartment buildings in favor of high density market rate units.

With the Community Plan Update, we have a unique opportunity to design a more user-friendly and walkable downtown Westchester in the Central Business District, as well as preserve and enhance the Triangle business pedestrian district. We have an opportunity to advocate for goals that are important to our community, more open green space, improved commercial and mixed-use development in appropriate areas that does not remove existing affordable housing and protects

our historic beach town of Playa del Rey by limiting building height and promoting coastal resilience.

The Second Draft of the Community Plan is set to be released in the next few months. City Planning will again solicit feedback from our community residents. It’s not too late to submit your comments about these proposed changes. Email your comments to planning.thewestside@lacity.org.

A link to the current draft and a summary of community comments can be found at facebook.com/thehtn.

Cory Birkett is a longtime Westchester resident and has closely followed the Community Plan Update process. She also serves as a member of the NCWP’s Planning and Land Use Committee.

Interested in getting more involved?

Besides submitting your comments

YARD WORK

SOCIAL SUPPORT

HOUSE CHORES

TECH SUPPORT

DRIVING AS NEEDED

And Other Contactless and Safe Ways to Volunteer!

Volunteer drivers get reimbursed for most miles driven!

to City Planning, community

members are encouraged to

participate with the Neighborhood Council of Westchester/Playa.

The Community Plan Update will

Whether you are employed, retired, or a student, less than 30 minutes a week can make a big difference in the life of an older person in your community.

We are seeking volunteers of all ages and talents. WPV will work with you to create a flexible schedule that fits with your lifestyle. Call us today and join our large group of volunteers!

continue to be discussed and an ad hoc committee specifically designed to address the

community’s concerns about the plan and to get feedback is in the works.

Westchester chef (continued) (continued from page 22) this year when he won first place, as well as the whole sauce division for his Korean-inspired BBQ sauce at the 2021 Orange County Fair. His culinary genius was on full display during the creation of this recipe.

He was whipping up his regular sauce and added spicy Korean bean paste by accident instead of another ingredient. He tried it and discovered that it was a tasty mistake. He added other Korean ingredients and his blueribbon winning sauce was born. He enjoys entering competitions because he feels it is validation for him and his cooking.

“I feel like, if the judges like it, people will like it too,” said Kitano.

His French sauce training has come into play in another one of his passions: Italian food. His alfredo sauce won the 2018 Sauce Off at the Westchester YMCA. He even beat out a few local, well-known hometown food heroes. He is proud to mention that his sauce won by a landslide.

Italian food is one of his favorite types of cuisine to pair with other flavors.

“Italian food can be fused with anything. It is a good foundation

ERRANDS

for all other types of cooking,” he explains.

This month, he will compete in the Westchester Elks Chili Cook-Off competition for the first time, and is hard at work crafting his recipe.

Kitano lives in the Osage area of Westchester with his wife and two daughters. The family enjoys entering family cook-offs, as well. His daughter is following in her dad’s footsteps and won second place at the 2018 L.A. County Fair in the Spam recipe contest.

In addition to cooking, Kitano is an avid runner and continues to volunteer at the Venice Free Methodist Church.

Kitano is a quiet and humble person, and when asked he says that he has no aspirations to appear on a cooking competition TV show, like the one that originally inspired him to want to be a chef.

“I don’t want to be in front of people,” said Kitano. “I prefer my food to speak for itself.”

Visit hapameals.com or view his Instagram @hapa_meals to view his current menu and future pop-up events.

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

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September 2021 • Page 25

Emerson Avenue Community Garden August 2021

After dozens of volunteer days and an estimated 800 hours of work, the Westchester Rotary Club will finally be ready to reveal all their hard work on the Emerson Avenue Community Garden (EACG) on September 18.

The garden is just the latest recipient of the club’s Makeover Project, which started in 2006 as a way for the membership organization to create a meaningful hands-on service opportunity that would engage volunteers and positively impact the neighborhood. While the first makeover recipients were homes, in recent years the club has turned their focus on community hubs Page 26 • September 2021

like the Westchester Senior Center, Venice’s Safe Place for Youth and the Westchester Townhouse.

“All of our makeover projects are amazing opportunities for our club, and this is no exception. There was something for everyone to do,” said Makeover Project Chair Warren Bobrow. “When people pass by and they see a bunch of people in the garden working in our blue shirts, it lets people know what Rotary does in the community. It also shows what a strong community Westchester is and the strength of everyone working together.”

Bobrow says the updates to the

garden include a more accessible walkway, an improved student garden area and a variety of beautification projects from weeding and painting to rehabbing outdoor sculptures and building bird houses. Cleaning and organizing were also major parts of the project and volunteers hauled away tons of debris and old items that filled 16 large dumpsters! The EACG’s board and volunteers were a critical part of the makeover’s success, donating their time to help in the garden, as well as drawing up plans and providing their expertise.

Thanks to donors like the William H. Hannon Foundation, the

Westchester

Photos by Lek Pollard.

WESTCHESTER ROTARY CLUB'S MAKEOVER PROJECT

Drollinger Family Charitable Trust and the Westchester Woman’s Club, more than $100,000 was donated to make the project a reality.

The Westchester Rotary Club will celebrate the completion of the 2021 Makeover Project during the Westchester Arts & Music (WAM) Block Party on September 18 at 3:45 p.m. with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The community is invited to the ceremony to check out the garden improvements and participate in family-friendly activities.

Learn more about Rotary’s projects in Westchester and beyond at rotary-westchester.com.

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

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

September 2021 • Page 27

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