Westchester/Playa Hometown News March 2024 edition

POWER MUSIC

THIS MONTH BRINGS YOU

MONTH

THIS MONTH BRINGS YOU

A LOOK INSIDE THIS MONTH'S HTN HOMETOWN STAFF/CONTRIBUTORS

YOU A LOOK INSIDE THIS MONTH'S HTN HOMETOWN STAFF/CONTRIBUTORS

A LOOK INSIDE THIS MONTH'S HTN HOMETOWN STAFF/CONTRIBUTORS

Stephanie Davis, Publisher

Shanee Edwards, Contributing Writer

ABOUT THE HOMETOWN NEWS

Jeff Blair, Contributing Writer

ABOUT THE HOMETOWN NEWS

Fay Craton, Contributing Writer Zsuzsi Steiner, Photos Robert Higgins, Photos

ABOUT THE HOMETOWN NEWS

THIS MONTH BRINGS YOU A LOOK INSIDE THIS MONTH'S HTN HOMETOWN STAFF/CONTRIBUTORS

ABOUT THE HOMETOWN NEWS

The HomeTown News is a monthly community newspaper dedicated to providing information about the people, events and happenings of Westchester, Playa del Rey, Marina del Rey and Playa Vista. Look for the HomeTown News the first Thursday of the month at your home or at one of our drop-off locations, including The Book Jewel, Westchester Family YMCA, Playa Pharmacy, Loyola Village Library, Playa Vista Library, Truxton’s American Bistro and Cantalini’s Salerno Beach.

ABOUT THE HOMETOWN NEWS

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

Email: westchesterhometown@yahoo.com

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Story ideas & Advertising: westchesterhometown@yahoo.com

What your BID does

The Westchester Town Center BID creates a vibrant, clean, and safe business area, delivering services and improvements above and beyond the baseline services provided by the City of Los Angeles. From security ambassadors and twinkle lights during the holidays to sidewalk maintenance and more, the BID is working to make Westchester the best it can be.

Front page: WISH Academy High School music teacher, Markus Illko, poses with his Contemporary Band Ensemble class.

Photo by Zsuzsi Steiner | zsuzsiphotography.com

By Shanee Edwards

Playa del Rey’s Markus Illko may be a new Grammy winner, but the thing he really wants to celebrate and focus on is inspiring the next generation of musicians–starting with his third period class.

Parents and students from WISH Academy High School agree that it is a special place that allows for opportunities beyond the proverbial three Rs. And for Playa del Rey resident, Markus Illko, one of the school’s talented music teachers—who is also a 2024 Grammy winner—providing a professional musical experience to his beloved students is a top goal.

Originally from Austria, “Mr. Illko,” as his students call him, came to Los Angeles to create music for the film industry. He’s had great success working on such films as “A Madea Christmas,” “Deliver Us From Evil” and the sci-fi TV show “Dominion.” Seven years ago, when WISH Academy was first getting started, Illko was asked to come speak to the students. Inspired to share his passion for music, shortly thereafter he began teaching a few classes here and there and discovered how much he loved the enthusiasm and optimism the students brought to the classroom.

“Every year I just started to teach a

little bit more. For me, it’s important to have two things: to play music professionally and give the knowledge to students who are interested in it,” says Mr. Illko.

While these days most people experience music through the digital realm, listening to music online or downloading songs onto their phones, last year Mr. Illko decided he wanted to give his students a more tactile experience: produce music on a vinyl record. And if that record could contain songs the students played themselves, it would make that 12-inch disc even more special.

“Since everything is online nowadays, it’s nice to have something to hold in your hand,” says Illko. “I think this experience of going into the studio to work with professional musicians is just something you need to experience. It’s such an important thing for every musician. And I thought, ‘Okay, let’s do that!’ And we worked together with Sonic Fuel Studios in El Segundo, as

At top: The WISH Academy High School Contemporary Band Ensemble show off the class’ album, 2023

At left: Markus Illko poses in his classroom.

Next page: Students perform an impromptu jam of “Superstition” by Stevie Wonder.

well as the LALA in the Box recording studio, which is my own studio, and we’ll just record it and then mix everything at Abbey Road Studios where the Beatles recorded in London.”

But do today’s teenagers buy and listen to vinyl records or understand the significance of Abbey Road Studios? Yes! Vinyl’s popularity is actually soaring, with nearly 50 million albums sold in the U.S. in 2023—a 14 percent jump from the year before. One only needs to head to Westchester’s Soundsations Records to see vinyl’s continued appeal and the dedicated music lovers digging through crates to find the next album to add to their collections.

“

For me, it’s important to have two things: to play music professionally and give the knowledge to students who are interested in it.

Speaking to a group of Mr. Illko’s current and former music students via Zoom, I was surprised to discover most of them already had record players at home and were big fans of the Beatles. One student, Ian Murray, even visited the outside of Abbey Road Studios on a family trip to London.

“I was there last summer. It was really crazy because I didn’t know that getting your music produced by Abbey Road was something you could do,” says Murray who adds he thought it would be amazing to have a song mixed there.

The music class ended up having two songs on WISH Academy’s debut album, 2023, mixed at the iconic studio.

2023, which was released last month, features a wide range of genres including pop, rock, reggae and soul with covers of Stevie Wonder’s 1972 hit “Superstition,” TOTO’s “Africa” and “Is This Love?” by Bob Marley and the Wailers. While some of the students who performed on the album have graduated, many are still honing their musical skills in Mr. Illko’s Contemporary Band Ensemble Class.

Alexandra Wilson sings the lead vocals on “Superstition.” Given this was her first time in a recording studio, the experience was exciting, but there was also a big learning curve.

“I had to navigate sound levels because you can’t really be too close

to the mic, so I learned things like that. The hardest part was doing multiple takes because it’s not an easy song for me. It was just very straining for my voice. But, in the end, we got it after two or three times,” says Wilson, whose voice is surprisingly mature and sophisticated, bringing a deep, soulful quality to the song.

Another vocalist, Lailah Young, sings the Bruno Major tune, “Nothing.” She plans to pursue music as a career and says singing on this album has really helped build her confidence. She’s delighted to share the music with the world.

“I just think it would be exciting for people to see how far I’ve come. I know I’m just 17 now so I have a long way to go, but I feel like the music and this whole class has really helped me. In ninth grade, I was kind of shy and very scared. I didn’t want to do anything. But it has taught me not to be afraid to show my voice, and now I want to pursue music in college because I’m more confident,” says Young, whose voice has quite a dynamic range and a gentle, lilting quality. Her singing is like an angel whispering in your ear.

For high school junior Ezra Yelchin, he thinks being part of this record might help create a pathway to college.

“To have your name on an album that’s going to be in stores is great. If you put that on a college application, or if you’re trying to get a job, people are going to look at it and say, ‘Well, maybe he’ll be good for this thing,’ you know? So, it’s definitely good,” says Yelchin.

But probably the best thing about the unique experience of being able to record and produce an album with your high school music class, according to all the students, is getting to work with Mr. Illko who won a Grammy last month for work with his band, The String Revolution. The award for “Best Arrangement, Instrumental or A Capella” was given to their rendition of the famous Johnny Cash song “Folsom Prison Blues,” where Illko had the rare opportunity to play one of Johnny Cash’s personal guitars, a 1930s Martin. Illko’s current and former students couldn’t contain their excitement when they saw him on TV at the award ceremony on February 4.

“I was watching the Grammys with my roommate Ian [Murray],” says Devan Makwana, a bassist who played on the WISH Academy album.

Both WISH alumni are now engineering students at Cal Poly Pomona and share a dorm room. When it was announced that Illko won, Makwana says it created quite a commotion.

“We started screaming! And we got a noise complaint because we were too loud. It was a lot of fun. We’re very proud of him!” he says.

(continued on page 18)

Photos by Zsuzsi Steiner

Local Meals on Wheels

celebrates 50 years of helping those in need.

Fifty years ago, movies were playing at the Loyola and Paradise theaters, the Buggy Whip was flourishing and a volunteer-based local nonprofit organization, pivotal in the effort to help feed local seniors, was founded: Culver Palm Meals on Wheels (CPMOW).

While many core businesses within the community have come and gone over the past five decades, CPMOW has grown and thrived with its unwavering dedication to helping seniors cope with three of the biggest threats of aging: hunger, isolation and loss of independence.

To celebrate its 50th milestone anniversary, starting this month, the nonprofit will host several activities that will reflect its appreciation for the support and dedication of its volunteers, donors, employees, and other local business partners.

Learn more and get involved at mealsonwheelsculverpalms.org.

Battle of the Bands returns to the Westchester Y.

Get ready to rock—and cheer on the next generation of musicians—at

the second annual Battle of the Bands hosted by the Westchester Family YMCA.

Save the date for Saturday, April 13 from noon to 4 p.m., for a day of live music performances in a variety of genres and other festivities. Y organizers expect 10 middle and high school bands to perform and battle it out to see who wows the crowd with their drum beats, vocal skills and chord progressions. In addition to bragging rights, the top

group will take home a $500 prize courtesy of event sponsors. The Battle of the Bands is free to attend and will be held at the Westchester Family YMCA Annex, located at 8020 Alverstone Ave.

This month, the Y is also inviting the community to a free Couples Swing Dance Night on March 15 starting at 6:30 p.m. Attendees will have a chance to learn some retro dance moves, meet new friends and have the opportunity to win

a prize of a hotel stay and parking provided by the Westin LAX. The Y will also provide free childcare and refreshments.

Space is limited. Visit facebook. com/westchesterfamilyymca for more details and to RSVP.

AMCS announces 2024 Community Builder honoree.

Airport Marina Counseling Service (AMCS) recently announced that Chad Maender and the LAX Coastal Chamber will be honored with the Community Builder Award at its 2024 Spring into Well-Being Celebration.

Maender and the chamber, which he leads as the President/ CEO, are being recognized for their work in creating connections between businesses and community; supporting nonprofits and schools, and creating a space where local business leaders can network and thrive.

“We are so excited to be honoring Chad and the chamber for their long-time commitment to our community,” said AMCS CEO Eden Garcia-Balis, who added that the goal is to raise more than $350,000. “We (continued on next page)

For more than 20 years, St. Anastasia School’s theater department has produced high quality student musicals, and they recently wrapped up another outstanding show with “The Addams Family.” The musical delighted theater-goers during the February 2 and February 3 performances at the El Segundo Performing Arts Center, thanks to the talented cast of students, phenomenal sets and great costumes.

The Culver Palms Meals on Wheels program, which serves the Westchester/Playa area, delivers more than 45,000 meals a year and is celebrating 50 years of service to seniors.

Photo courtesy St. Anastasia School

(continued from previous page) look forward to having a celebration of the many ways in which AMCS has continued to deliver critical mental health services to our community.” With one in four individuals suffering from some form of mental illness during their lifetime, organizations like AMCS are crucial for providing important services like counseling and group therapy on a sliding scale.

The May 16 celebration will be held at LMU’s Drollinger Stage and will include a live and silent auction, entertainment by retired NBC4 Weathercaster and comedian Fritz Coleman, and more.

Learn more at amcshelps.com.

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

Unlock the Potential of ADUs:

The ultimate way to achieve stylish, functional, and profitable living.

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As a family-owned and locally operated business, our deep connection to the community extends beyond the surface. We possess an intimate understanding of local laws, ordinances, building codes, and city intricacies that directly impact your property. Our team of experienced professionals offer:

Maender oversees the community’s oldest and largest business organization, which currently represents more than 650 members.

“Coming to terms with her identity was a constant challenge.”

Business spotlight: Playa del Rey boutique owner shares passion for styling and fashion with shoppers

Lily Love Boutique owner and Westchester resident, Sara Lashkari, is passionate about fashion and helping her customers look and feel their best, whether they’re looking for items to lounge around the house in or hit the club.

Lashkari is one of the brave business owners that opened during the first few months of the pandemic. Since then, her boutique has built a reputation with Westchester/Playa locals and loyal shoppers for being the place to go when women are looking for styling tips and great customer service. Read this month’s business spotlight to learn the story behind Lily Love Boutique, and check out this local shop next time you need some new threads!

Q. Please tell us a little bit about yourself.

A. I am from Windsor, Ontario Canada. I have lived in L.A. for 12 years, but Westchester for the last four years! I live with my fiancé and two dogs–Dougie, a mixed breed that we rescued from Iran, and Rufus, an English lab puppy. I own Lily Love Boutique in Playa del Rey. When I am not working, I am playing with my dogs, reading or going to the beach.

Q. What inspired you to open your boutique?

A. I have always loved fashion! I worked in retail all throughout high school. I moved to L.A. and attended FIDM, then worked in TV and fashion styling. I styled various TV commercials and photo shoots. I then worked for the online styling company, Stitch Fix, for five years. I toyed with the idea of opening my boutique for a while, and had secured a space in February 2020. Then Covid hit and I had to wait a bit to open my doors! I started online first, then opened the doors in October 2020.

Q. How would you describe Lily Love Boutique?

A. Lily Love Boutique offers something for everyone! We have a lot of fun, easy and casual clothes, as well

as some special occasion pieces. My typical client is about 40-45 and usually a mom. Although I have customers who are 13 to 80! Our best sellers are our super soft sweaters, our jeans and jackets!

We also provide personal styling services, so if you have no idea how to put together an outfit, we can surely help out! These are complimentary, and we have all of

I find it challenging being the only one who is responsible for everything. It is hard to juggle all aspects of owning a business, like bookkeeping, maintaining the website, doing the social media, doing events, working in the store, cleaning, changing out the merchandise, etc.! Also, the job never ends. There isn’t a “clock-out.” There is always something to do!

Q. What are some current fashion trends? Is the store a reflection of your personal style?

A. Current trends include crochet sweaters and tops, bold patterns and colors, florals, great basics, and cute activewear/loungewear. Oh–and trench jackets!

The store is definitely a reflection of my personal style. I wouldn’t be able to tell people how awesome something is if I didn’t believe it myself.

Q. What does a typical day look like for you as a boutique owner?

A. The first thing I usually do is check social media. I will reply to any comments or messages and post in my VIP group on Facebook.

Then I will post on Instagram and send out an email with new arrivals, events or specials. I will then come to the store and get everything set up to open.

the items–except shoes, for now–to have you walking out in your new look.

Q. What are some of your favorite aspects of being an entrepreneur and some of your challenges?

A. I love being able to do what I want and be my own boss. I love choosing the clothing that goes into the shop. I love styling outfits and photo shoots.

There is always cleaning to do, re-arranging items, changing mannequins, organizing the back room, and taking new photos to post and update the website with! Oh, and I also sell online, so I will have to pack up orders and ship them out.

Q. What are some of your favorite local small businesses that you like to support?

A. The Good Pizza, Playa Pharmacy and Yum Yum Donuts! I’ve also been meaning to check out The Book Jewel. Check this PdR boutique out on Instagram @lilylove. boutique or by scanning the QR code!

Lashkari poses in front of her store during a recent pop-up event for Galentine’s Day. Keep an eye on the shop’s Instagram for fun in-store events, pop-ups, fashion shows and more.

Photo

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FOURTH ANNUAL ROCK ROLL & RUN & COMMUNITY FAIR - MARCH 2

SIGN UP ONLINE THROUGH FRIDAY, MARCH 3 AT NOON.

The potential for rain didn’t keep racers away from the Fourth Annual Rock Roll & Run and Community Fair hosted by the LAX Coastal Education Foundation (LAXCEF) in partnership with LMU on Saturday, March 2.

The event is the foundation’s largest fundraiser of the year, and brings together the whole community for a day of school spirit, friendly competition and health and wellness.

The morning kicked off at 8 a.m. with music by Sooper Awesome and a 5K around LMU. Musicians–including a jazz saxophonist, trumpeter and guitarist–were set up along the course to entertain and motivate runners, joggers and walkers as they raced along

the campus.

As participants crossed the finish line, they made their way to the community fair featuring nearly 30 booths with giveaways, family-friendly activities, games and prizes. The Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary tent was a big hit, thanks to their free pancake breakfast and coffee cart.

5K/1K FUN RUN

greeted with a crepe paper finish line, motivational signs and their family and friends who were rooting them on.

PRESENTED BY THE LAX COASTAL EDUCATION FOUNDATION IN PARTNERSHIP WITH LOYOLA MARYMOUNT UNIVERSITY

MARCH 4

The LAX Coastal Chamber’s Network for Change volunteer group led the 10 a.m. Kids’ 1K Fun Run at 10 a.m. with a record-breaking 473 students registered. A special appearance by the Laker Girls helped cheer on the K-12 runners, which was a fun addition to the festivities. As the kids made their way to the end of the 1K, they were

SATURDAY 8 -11 AM

ANY SIGN-UPS AFTER THAT TIME WILL NEED TO BRING A PRINTOUT OF THEIR REGISTRATION TO THE EVENT TO PICK UP THEIR BIB! SIGN-UPS ARE ALSO OPEN AT THE EVENT!

AFTER YOU'VE CONQUERED THE ROCK ROLL & RUN, GET READY TO EAT YOUR HART OUT! YOU’VE EARNED IT! STOP BY HART HOUSE WESTCHESTER ON MARCH 4TH THROUGH MARCH 8TH AND SHOW THIS IMAGE OR SAY THE PHRASE “ROCK, ROLL & RUN” TO DONATE 10% OF YOUR PURCHASE TO THE LAX COASTAL EDUCATION FOUNDATION!

families and community members coming together to raise money to support our local schools,” said LAXCEF President Lory Sarlo. “This event would not be possible without the partnership of LMU, and the help of our foundation schools and their PTOs. It’s a great day for education when we can bring everyone together for a common goal and help fund crucial programs in our K-12 classrooms.”

CHECK-IN 7 - 7:45 AM

LMU LAWTON PLAZA @ DROLLINGER STAGE

ALL NET PROCEEDS BENEFIT OUR LOCAL PARTNER SCHOOLS!

LIVE MUSIC BY SOOPERAWESOME & FEATURING DJ BIG ROB

AFTER THE RACE, JOIN US FOR OUR EXPO FEATURING: FAMILY FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES | MUSIC | PANCAKE BREAKFAST | COMMUNITY BOOTHS

$115,000, with the net proceeds benefiting schools in the Westchester/

Photos by Zsuzsi Steiner

Shake, Rattle & Rolling with Westchester Rotary

The Westchester Rotary Club has been serving the local community since 1950, and they’re going old school for their spring fundraiser with a “Shake Rattle & Roll” theme. Tickets are $75 and sponsorships and donations for the silent auction are also being sought.

The funds raised from the Saturday, March 23 event at the Flight Path Museum will help support the club’s projects in Westchester and beyond, which include scholarships, a biannual makeover project, support of numerous area nonprofits and more!

The event is also an opportunity to honor the club’s 2024 Citizen Of the Year, Ahmanise Sanati Morgan (pictured right), who is being recognized for her work with community organizations and helping launch a “Books for Jails” program in L.A. County, in an effort to promote literacy, education and mental health.

Save the date for the club’s upcoming book sale during Memorial Day weekend when thousands of paperbacks, hardcovers and more will be sold for a good cause. Learn more at rotary-westchester.org.

Meeting the Easter Bunny

Runway Playa Vista is hosting a visit from the Easter Bunny and an egg hunt this month. Visit their website at runwayplayavista. com to reserve your spot on March 16 or March 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to have your photo taken with everyone’s favorite rabbit, courtesy of Venice Paparazzi. Then, on March 24, bring the family to Runway for a community-wide Easter egg extravaganza from 10 to 10:30 a.m. (while supplies last). When you’re done, stop by Superfine Playa for brunch or do a little shopping at Free Market for a perfect Playa Vista day.

Runway Playa Vista is located at 12775 Millennium Drive in Playa Vista.

Attending a performance of “Steel Magnolias”

You’ve seen the movie, so now see the play that inspired it all, when the Kentwood Players production of “Steel Magnolias” opens on March 15. Head to the Westchester Playhouse for performances on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., as well as matinées on Sundays at 2 p.m. and select Saturdays through April 6. The play tells the “trials and tribulations of six sassy and formidable women set in 1980s Chinquapin Parish, Louisiana.”

Tickets are $25 and can be purchased online at kentwoodplayers.org. The play is part of the nonprofit’s 74th season, which will also feature “Once on this Island,” “Misery” and “The Producers” later this year.

Discovering local history at the farmers’ market

Take a step back in time at the Discovery Center curated by the Westchester/Playa Historical Society. The center, which is open 9:30 a.m. to noon on Sundays during the Westchester Farmers’ Market, is a great place to visit and explore the history of the area, while reminiscing with docents about the past, present and future of the community.

The center’s current show is “Secrets and Surprises in our Own Backyard,” which looks at the fascinating history behind Jet Pets and the land housing the Playa del Rey animal facility.

Next month, the nonprofit will pay tribute to local education with a “Salute to our Schools,” exhibit. Visit the Westchester/Playa Historical Society Discovery Center at 6207 W. 87th St. in the Triangle in Westchester. Learn how to get involved and donate at wphistoricalsociety.org/discovery-center.

Spring cleaning with CUW

Get a little neighborhood spring cleaning done with the help of our friends at Clean Up Westchester!

This group of super volunteers is always looking for new recruits to help them make a positive impact and join their yellow shirt wearing crew!

Follow them @cleanupwestchester on Instagram or visit their website at cleanupwestchester.com for more info. Upcoming clean ups include March 16 near Mono Poke (corner of La Tijera and Sepulveda) and April 6 near In-N-Out on Sepulveda.

Photo by Gloria Plunkett

News

Photo by Venice Paparazzi

Photo by Robert Higgins

Power of music (con’t)

(continued from page 5)

“I can confirm we did get a noise complaint, and the guy down the hall was in a room that was pretty far from us, but he could hear us clear as day, so we were a bit loud,” says a joyful Murray.

Getting to record an album with a Grammy winner is a huge deal for these teens. But Mr. Illko makes it clear he never set out to win awards.

“If you do music, you don’t do it for prizes, right? You just do it because you love it, so I was never interested in awards per se. I think it’s not the goal you should have.

But it’s a huge honor because the Grammy voters are all professional musicians, and then to be in the same category as Mick Jagger and Keith Richards and win against them–it’s just unbelievable,” says Illko.

For his students, Mr. Illko doesn’t just provide musical instruction. He sets an example of how to navigate the music industry while taking the time to give back to the community. Winning a Grammy is just icing on the cake.

“I think Mr. Illko really influences us to become better artists,” says Young. “There’s moments where we’re in our heads a lot and just

don’t know what to do. And we’re like, ‘How do I sing this, how can I do better?’ And if this is something that we actually want to do, [Mr. Illko’s] going to push us to do it so that we’re able to. He helps us be better as people and not just as students,” she says.

To pay for the record and studio time, the WISH band did several concerts to raise money but also relied on donors. Mr. Illko called in numerous favors and even spent six months in between his busy schedule editing the music, to cut down on costs. It’s an experience he hopes to bring to his future students as well.

In the meantime, Illko says his actual Grammy statue won’t arrive for at least two more months.

“It might go next to my coffee machine, but I’m not sure yet,” he says.

More importantly, he hopes people reading this story will want to get their own physical copy of 2023–either buying the album at Soundsations in the Westchester Triangle or by emailing him at millko@wishcharter.org.

“I have fantastic students, and they are so very talented! I’m very, very proud of them!” he says.

Our curriculum blends classic and contemporary learning with Christian values.

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

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

from St. Anastasia Catholic School

Working together to improve our communities!

Working together to improve our communities!

Working together to improve our communities!

Working together to improve our communities!

Working together to improve our communities!

Working together to improve our communities!

Working together to improve our communities!

you do not take an interest in

“If

“If you do not

you do not take an interest in the affairs of your government, then you are doomed to live under the rule of fools.”

do not take an interest in the affairs of your government, then you are doomed to live under the rule of fools.”

do not take an interest in the affairs of your government, then you are doomed to live under the rule of fools.”

do not take an interest in the affairs of your government, then you are doomed to live under the rule of fools.”

you do not take an interest in the affairs of your government, then you are doomed to live under the rule of fools.” ~ Plato

you do not take an interest in the affairs of your government, then you are doomed to live under the rule of fools.”

take an interest in the affairs of your government, then you are doomed to live under the rule of fools.”

~

~ Plato

~ Plato

~ Plato

~ Plato

Neighborhood

Neighborhood

Neighborhood

“If you do not take an interest in the affairs of your government, then you are doomed to live under the rule of fools.” ~

Neighborhood at Work Month

Neighborhood Council at Work This Month

at Work Month

Neighborhood at Work Month

Neighborhood Council at Work This Month

Neighborhood at Work Month

Check Out All the PlayaLA Options at Westchester Recreation Center

Committee Chair

Member/Outreach Committee Chair

Committee Chair Council Updates:

Member/Outreach Committee Chair

The spring season registration for the PlayLA Youth and Adaptive Youth Sports opened March 4. Classes and clinics are available for youth ages 3-17.

Neighborhood Council Updates: all committees meeting for our to the website at ncwpdr.org for a meeting dates. Also, if you missed a access a copy of the minutes and handouts for make sure to sign up for updates so you important issues happening in our community.

REGISTRATION: www.laparks.org

meeting for our website at ncwpdr.org for a Also, if you missed a the minutes and handouts for sign up for updates so you happening in our community.

Committee Chair Council Updates: meeting for our at ncwpdr.org for a Also, if you missed a minutes and handouts for sign up for updates so you happening in our community.

Neighborhood Council Updates: all committees meeting for our to the website at ncwpdr.org for a meeting dates. Also, if you missed a a copy of the minutes and handouts for make sure to sign up for updates so you important issues happening in our community.

Neighborhood Council Updates: committees meeting for our website at ncwpdr.org for a dates. Also, if you missed a of the minutes and handouts for sure to sign up for updates so you issues happening in our community.

“At the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks (RAP), we believe in the power of sports to foster growth, teamwork, and joy in our community’s youth,” said Veronica Polanco, Chief Innovation Officer for PlayLA. “That’s why we’re asking for support in sharing the information with your community and inviting folks to register kids in for our upcoming PlayLA sports programs.”

From baseball to surfing, PlayLA leagues and clinics offer a fantastic opportunity for children to learn new skills, make friends, and stay active in a fun and supportive environment.

Here are highlights from some of the many PlayLA Spring Sports offerings:

• PlayLA baseball teaches teamwork, coordination, and strategic thinking while promoting essential social skills and a lifelong love for the sport.

position statement to the Community Plan available oat ncwpdr.org/ncwpspeaks-out-on-community-plan-update/

position statement to the Community Plan available oat ncwpdr.org/ncwpspeaks-out-on-community-plan-update/

approved a position statement to Park regarding the Community Plan letter is available oat ncwpdr.org/ncwpspeaks-out-on-community-plan-update/ Committee:

a position statement to regarding the Community Plan available oat ncwpdr.org/ncwpspeaks-out-on-community-plan-update/ Committee: plans to address needs of impacting the quality of life of the be held in November and will vehicle dwellers and the issue of in and around Westchester Park. to be safe when using the park,

approved a position statement to Park regarding the Community Plan letter is available oat ncwpdr.org/ncwpspeaks-out-on-community-plan-update/ Committee:

Thanks to the LA28 Olympics and Paralympic Games commitment, the PlayLA Youth and Adaptive Youth Sports Program provides affordable and accessible sports programming to kids of all abilities through Los Angeles. At 88 pre-qualified recreation centers and 36 pools sports programs are automatically offered for $10.

to address needs of the quality of life of the held in November and will dwellers and the issue of around Westchester Park. safe when using the park,

• Girls Play Los Angeles (GPLA) softball teaches young girls fundamental skills with an emphasis on teamwork and sportsmanship, coaches guiding them to improve throwing, catching, and hitting, fostering leadership and friendships through regular gameplay and practice sessions.

speaks-out-on-community-plan-update/ Committee: chair, plans to address needs of impacting the quality of life of the will be held in November and will homeless vehicle dwellers and the issue of living in and around Westchester Park. and to be safe when using the park, center.

approved a position statement to regarding the Community Plan available oat ncwpdr.org/ncwpspeaks-out-on-community-plan-update/ Committee: chair, plans to address needs of impacting the quality of life of the will be held in November and will homeless vehicle dwellers and the issue of living in and around Westchester Park. and to be safe when using the park, center.

Committee:

Committee:

Huston, chair, plans to address needs of issues impacting the quality of life of the meeting will be held in November and will homeless vehicle dwellers and the issue of homeless living in and around Westchester Park. and to be safe when using the park, center.

Huston, chair, plans to address needs of issues impacting the quality of life of the meeting will be held in November and will homeless vehicle dwellers and the issue of living in and around Westchester Park. safe and to be safe when using the park, senior center.

Every one of the city’s recreation centers and pools offers the PlayLA program. Pre-qualified centers and pools offer $10 youth sports programming. All other sites have waivers available for those who qualify.

Eligible income for waivers is $91,000. The low-income limit is established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

• PlayLA Learn to Kayak teaches youth basic kayaking skills, including kayak parts, launching, navigation, safety, and paddling in open water, promoting outdoor exploration and lifelong recreation in otherwise unreachable places. Perfect for those kids who love adventure!

• Adaptive Swimming makes a splash with fundamental skills for youth with disabilities, improving motor skills, coordination, and cardiovascular health, all while having a “fin-tastic” time and building confidence and balance

through strokes like crawl, backstroke, butterfly, and breaststroke.

To learn about all the PlayLA Spring Season, please visit www.laparks.org/play-la. Don’t forget to follow PlayLA on Instagram at @laparks.playla.

Committee:

7 p.m. on November 14. We will Lead Officers of the LAPD, as Council District 11. These meetings walk away with a wealth of

at 7 p.m. on November 14. We will Senior Lead Officers of the LAPD, as Council District 11. These meetings will walk away with a wealth of Committee:

held at 7 p.m. on November 14. We will Senior Lead Officers of the LAPD, as from Council District 11. These meetings you will walk away with a wealth of Committee: discussed the airport’s 120-million street impact projections. A special Program of sound-rated energy efficient improved ventilation systems are within their designated area. It is

held at 7 p.m. on November 14. We will Senior Lead Officers of the LAPD, as from Council District 11. These meetings you will walk away with a wealth of

discussed the airport’s 120-million street impact projections. A special Program of sound-rated energy efficient improved ventilation systems are within their designated area. It is free to you are eligible, please visit: www.LAWA.

discussed the airport’s 120-million impact projections. A special Program of sound-rated energy efficient improved ventilation systems are their designated area. It is free to are eligible, please visit: www.LAWA.

discussed the airport’s 120-million impact projections. A special of sound-rated energy efficient improved ventilation systems are their designated area. It is free to eligible, please visit: www.LAWA.

at 7 p.m. on November 14. We will Senior Lead Officers of the LAPD, as Council District 11. These meetings will walk away with a wealth of Committee: discussed the airport’s 120-million impact projections. A special Program of sound-rated energy efficient improved ventilation systems are their designated area. It is free to are eligible, please visit: www.LAWA.

on November 14. We will Officers of the LAPD, as District 11. These meetings away with a wealth of airport’s 120-million projections. A special sound-rated energy efficient ventilation systems are designated area. It is free to eligible, please visit: www.LAWA.

to address needs of the quality of life of the held in November and will dwellers and the issue of and around Westchester Park. safe when using the park, p.m. on November 14. We will Officers of the LAPD, as District 11. These meetings away with a wealth of airport’s 120-million projections. A special sound-rated energy efficient ventilation systems are designated area. It is free to eligible, please visit: www.LAWA.

to you are eligible, please visit: www.LAWA.

More at NCWP’s Public Safety Committee Meeting

By John Logsdon, NCWP Public Safety Committee Chair

Come join the Westchester / Playa’s Neighborhood Council’s Public Safety Committee meeting on Tuesday March 19 at 6:30 p.m. for an in depth conversation with the LAX Police Department.

We will tour their state-of-the-art facility and learn how the 550+ sworn officers protect one of the busiest airports in the world. Topics of discussion will include how they handle homelessness, their crisis team, responding to LAX emergencies and their growing partnership with our community.

We will also hear from our Senior Lead Officers of the LAPD Pacific Division and get an update on crime stats and recent crime issues in our area. Contact info for our Senior Lead Officers for Westchester/Playa are:

Officer Pinell – 35545@lapd.online

Officer Perez – 41219@lapd.online

Officer Ramirez – 39174@lapd.online

Next Neighborhood Council of Westchester/Playa Board Meeting: 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 7,

Next Neighborhood Council of Westchester/Playa Board Meeting: 6:30 p.m., Tuesday,

There will also be an update from our Los Angeles Council District 11 Field Deputy. This is a front row seat into how Public Safety works in our community.

@ LAX Police Headquarters | 9160

@

in Westchester

Random Notes/Opinion

Take some steps to become a pickleball pro

By Jeff Blair

Opinion: Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the United States. It grew 158.6 percent per year over the past three years. As of 2023, more than 36 million Americans played–including me. I am a member of the Westchester Pickleball Club! This month, I will share some things I have learned about the sport.

What is it and what are some of the benefits? Pickleball has been described as a combination of badminton, tennis and ping pong. It is played with paddles on a badminton-sized court often in a doubles format. Pickleball can produce many health benefits. One study of pickleball players over 50 years old showed that 70 percent of playing time was spent in a moderate-vigorous heart rate zone. This can be great for cardiovascular health, as everyone should get 150 minutes of moderatevigorous cardiovascular exercise per week.

As part of the fun, players rotate and interact with each other, and this creates a unique social environment. As “picklers” get to know each other, friendships often develop. Getting to know other people seems built into the sport. This socialization is one reason pickleball has grown rapidly. Research shows enjoyment can make people more likely to continue an activity. One review of 13 studies showed pickleball players experienced increases in feelings of happiness, life satisfaction and wellbeing (Cerezuela, 2023). This is very important for people who struggle to maintain an exercise routine.

The Westchester club was started in December 2021 by Tom Brewster and Michael Koss. It has grown rapidly since then, and was even featured on the front page of last year’s March edition of the HTN. According to Koss, the chance to interact with others attracts many people.

“We constantly hear people

exchanging phone numbers or going out to lunch after playing in the morning. People are always telling me that wherever they are in the neighborhood, the movies, the supermarkets, they run into players, people that they wouldn’t have otherwise known if not for pickleball. It makes a large town feel small.”

How do you get better at pickleball? Improving at a sport increases feelings of accomplishment. This can increase motivation. Koss, a local USA Pickleball Ambassador and Professional Pickleball Registry certified coach, says training can help a player’s technical skill: “Taking some lessons or clinics can certainly help players get better and help people improve quickly.”

He believes being a good player involves more than just physical skill. Having a good attitude is also important.

“When you’re playing at our facility, you want to be a great partner, and friendly with everyone. That is the vibe that we push. We are inclusive and uplifting to our players,” says Koss.

He also believes playing the sport can give people a psychological boost.

“Many players have never even played a sport before in their life, and all of a sudden, they are now athletes,” he says. “There’s something very fulfilling about playing a sport and realizing you can do things that you may never have thought possible.”

What advice do experienced players have for beginners? Kris Higgins joined Westchester Pickleball in April 2023 after a coworker convinced him to try it. He shared these tips for beginners: “It can be intimidating at first. After the first few games and weeks, things get better. Try to be consistent and show up to play. Community helps with that. Once you get past the awkward beginner stage, you will really start to like it.”

Adella Curry joined the local club in November 2021. Her advice for

beginners is: “Be patient with yourself. Learn the serve. Pick one thing to focus on and try to get better at that. Then learn the next thing. Don’t take yourself too seriously. Be easy on yourself.”

What steps can I take to avoid injury? Pickleball is a sport, and all sports (including skiing, golf, and tennis) carry injury risk. Proper shoes are important. Talk to your doctor and a pickleball coach for recommendations. Try not to overdo it when you start. A proper warm up of around 10 minutes and a cool down of about the same time should be followed. Consistent strength training may also reduce injury risk by strengthening muscles and tendons used in the sport.

Get your doctor’s approval before starting any sport and always listen to your body. For more info on the local club, check out westchesterlapickleball. com. Happy pickling!

Jeff Blair (MS, CSCS) is a Certified Personal Trainer with more than 20 years of experience, a fitness book author and founder of the SoCalSport & Fitness Personal Training Studio. Contact Jeff at jeff@socalsport.com for article comments or suggestions.

Check out SocalSport on IG @socalsport to get more tips on pickleball and other fitness issues!

LGBTQIA PROCESS GROUP: NAVIGATING HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS WITH SELF AND OTHERS

Wednesdays | 6 - 7:30pm | via Zoom • $15/session

Chloe Koslo (she/they) at ext. 155 & Taylor Yates (she/her) at ext. 140

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

WOMEN’S PROCESS GROUP VIRTUAL

Wednesdays | 5:30 - 7pm | via

Photo by Robert Higgins

Spring: a time of growth and change

By Fay Craton

Opinion: As nature readies for spring, I reflect on how things are named to help bring meaning and order into the world. One of the names given to March’s full moon is the “Worm Moon.” What a fitting name to kick off the season when the ground and plants begin to warm up. I can picture the worms awakening to help break down the soil and old organic matter, while fertilizing the land to help new plants grow. Spring is ushered in, symbolically telling us now is a time of change, listening, growth and a choice to awaken from winter. It is a transition from the dark, cold days of the previous season into increasing light and warmth.

I am ready for spring. For me, it has been a long winter full of grief over the death of my mother. I am ready to have the earth beneath me aerate and fertilize with new possibilities. As my world changes, I am sorting through and releasing many possessions. Often, as I pick up an item, a poignant memory appears, and the sadness of grief reemerges, just as a crisp breeze or a cold rain interrupts the unfolding of spring. I know this is normal. Loss and change are not something with a hardened start and end point. It is full of layers and part of life’s normal rhythm.

Change and loss open paths for something new to appear. It is not possible to hang onto everything. A few days ago, the tree in front of my home was trimmed to prepare for springtime growth. During the rain and windstorms of the last few months, branches have broken off. When limbs break off a tree, pests and disease can damage it. Anything the limb hits on the way down is at risk. To keep the tree healthy, pruning needs to happen. Possessions and life patterns also need to be let go of for something new to grow. We can let go of possessions that make us feel emotionally heavy and do not contribute to the life we desire. We can keep the best stuff, reminding us of the happiest memories and let go of the rest.

Stillness, observation and reflection have been my “go-to” modes this past winter. As spring emerges, I think about the “Worm Moon” and the creatures for which it is named. Such a simple animal, yet it thrives. It just needs dirt, compost and water. It can be cut in two and both pieces will live. I reflect upon what I believe I need

to live. Can I be as resilient as a worm?

Hmm… a worm? Really? First, I better acknowledge I am a much more complicated animal, and my survival needs are a lot more than a worm. For starters, I have a lot of “what ifs.”

Do I need to control my environment and the people within it? What would happen if I let go of competitive beliefs about having to prove myself? What if I let go of believing what a bully says about me could be true? What if I stop accepting the pain when something spiteful is said to or about me? What if I listen to a deep spiritual voice within for guidance daily? What if I sought aliveness instead of fatigue? The “what ifs” are numerous. I have many more, and I suspect many people have their own extensive list, too.

As I sort through the stuff in my home, I fully accept I am ready to let go of much of it. As my “what ifs” surface, I am facing them, allowing them to at least shift a little and at times start the process to fully release them. Shifting beliefs is made easier by pushing no longer-needed possessions out of my life. I am letting go so something new can appear.

Can you think of some “what ifs” to ponder? Only think about them; you do not need to do anything more. Consider this: what would it be like if you let go of beliefs and possessions that might not still be serving you? Or what would happen if you let a belief shift just a little bit to allow more thriving into your life?

When you are ready, think about whether you want to make any changes. If you decide to let go of beliefs that no longer serve you, what are you ready to accept? Will acceptance give you an increased sense of meaning? Will the change improve the quality of a relationship? Will you be able to recover quicker when there is a life hurt? Will you be more resilient and more grounded?

My wish is for you to reflect on what you can let go of to let a life of meaning and happiness in. I wish for you to enjoy the light and warmth of spring.

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 has an office located in Westchester.

If you have any questions, please contact Fay at (310) 645-6762.

SPRING CROPS

Happy Spring!

Join us every Sunday in the heart of downtown Westchester - so much in season and to choose from! Gorgeous fresh produce from local small farmers to over thirty local food businesses offering a wealth in artisanal foods. Live music, kids activities, community booths, follow us on social media for updates!

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LMU Guitar Festival 2024

By Shanee Edwards

No one can predict when and where they’ll fall in love. What might seem like a small or random connection between two people can often blossom into something deep and purposeful over time. This is what happened to Henry and Jamie Escoto, who started as co-workers 14 years ago and are now discovering their own larger purpose of bringing awareness to a deadly disease while discovering the joys of family life along the way.

Henry and Jamie met while working in Digital Media at Fox Studios in Century City back in 2010.

“When I met Henry, I was in Product Development for our backend digital media systems. He oversaw UX and visual design for our consumer-facing applications. He worked on American Idol, but that was before I started,” Jamie says.

For Henry, Jamie’s strong work ethic and upbeat nature allowed their work relationship to become a solid friendship.

“I met her, and we became good friends. I think the aspects of how she was brought up, there were similarities between how we were both raised, the importance of family–we just clicked,” says Henry, who grew up with a close-knit family

in Honduras before coming to Los Angeles in 1987.

Henry had one pesky dilemma, however, that was keeping him from asking Jamie on a date.

“I had a rule I would never date anybody from work. I kept that rule very clean until she decided to show up,” he says with a smile, because we all know rules were made to be broken.

With the help of a couple of cats–one fictional and one real–romance soon began to blossom.

“He invited me to a Hello Kitty convention as friends. We both dressed up for it,” says Jamie.

She dressed as Hello Kitty, with

a red puffy bow in her hair and he dressed as Bad Badtz-Maru, a black penguin with spiky hair. But it was Jamie’s sister who suspected the pair shared more than a fondness for the iconic Sanrio characters.

“My sister was like, ‘There’s no way that this guy does not like you if he’s willing to go to a Hello Kitty convention with you!’” says Jamie.

But it was another feline–Jamie’s own cat–that helped seal the deal.

“It was my birthday and I needed a ride to the airport because I was going to Chicago, which is where I’m originally from,” says Jamie.

Henry came to pick her up, and while Jamie finished packing her

Meet

How long has Westchester been your hometown?

What does the perfect day in Westchester look like to you?

Since you’ve made Westchester your home, what is the biggest change you have seen in the community?

Have a family you’d like to recommend to be featured? Email us your suggestions at westchesterhometown@yahoo.com!