The Men's Issue
HOW JOHN FAWCETT AND THE SINCLAIR DINOSAUR BECAME THE TALK OF THE TOWN
PLUS OUR ANNUAL FATHER’S DAY GIFT GUIDE, RISING ENTREPRENEURS AND MORE OF BRENTWOOD’S TOP GENTS
TURNING DREAMS INTO REALITY
Established in 1928, Anderson Construction is a premier contractor providing construction services throughout the region—from Goleta and Santa Barbara to Ventura, Los Angeles, Malibu and Pacific Palisades. As a general contractor, the firm is known for its ability to respond quickly and thoughtfully to owners’ needs while delivering innovative solutions that save both time and money. Trusted by local lead building officials and respected for its commitment to quality and precision, Anderson Construction guides projects from start to finish—from ground-up construction to tenant improvements and renovations.
Leading Men
June's issue arrives just in time for Father's Day—a moment to celebrate the dads, entrepreneurs and community leaders who help shape life here in Brentwood. As a wife and mother of three young boys, I think often about the examples around us—the people whose work, creativity and commitment quietly influence the character of our neighborhood. For our annual Men's Issue, we're highlighting a few of the individuals whose ideas and dedication help make this place what it is.
We begin with Brentwood resident Miles Fisher on our My Town page. Many people know Fisher as a dapper dad-around-town, but he’s recently gained global attention as the creator behind the viral Tom Cruise deepfake videos. At home with his wife, Lucy, and daughters, Fisher says what he values most is the neighborhood's authenticity—one of the few places on the westside that still feels like a small town.
The same sense of effortless style carries into our Father's Day gift guide, which this year focuses on Sid Mashburn at the Brentwood Country Mart. The Atlanta-based menswear brand has become a favorite for those who appreciate timeless pieces and thoughtful craftsmanship. As the father of five girls, Sid understands that the best gifts are often the simplest—something personal that will be worn and enjoyed for years.
Food is also front and center this month with the opening of Neighborly on San Vicente. The new culinary hub is the latest concept from Mario Del Pero, the fast-casual pioneer who co-founded Mendocino Farms and Goop Kitchen. With Neighborly, Del Pero brings together an impressive lineup of chefs under one roof—a relaxed dining destination designed for the rhythm of local life.
We also meet Olivier Roumy of Cocoturf, whose environmentally-minded innovations are reshaping turf landscaping across Los Angeles, and Jose Jarita, whose steady presence greeted families at Wilshire Boulevard Temple for nearly two decades before he launched Jarita Security Service. Meanwhile, the inaugural Pacific Palisades Motor Classic will bring neighbors together for a car show benefiting the rebuilding of the local YMCA.
And finally, our cover story. For more than forty years, John Fawcett's gas station has been a fixture at the corner of San Vicente and 26th. When Clair—the bright green dinosaur out front—was stolen last fall, the reaction across Brentwood was overwhelming. What followed became one of the most talked-about moments in the neighborhood in recent years: a reminder of the quiet power of small business and the relationships built over decades of simply showing up. Enjoy the issue.
June 2026
PUBLISHER
Amanda Eberstein | amanda.eberstein@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Laura SanchezQuan
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Carole Dixon, Beth Friedman
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Trish Alison, Ashley Barrett, CFP Studio
Photography, Christian Germoso, Earl Gibson III/ Getty Images, Chelsea Lauren/Shutterstock, Ashley Randall, Brittany Dawn Short, Randy Shropshire/Getty Images, Caitlin Slee, Jessica Yang, Shutterstock for Venice Family Clinic
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
AMANDA EBERSTEIN, PUBLISHER
Neighborly
At Brentwood’s Sinclair station, John Fawcett has spent decades serving the community—while a dinosaur named Clair became one of the neighborhood’s most beloved sights
Timeless style and thoughtful gifts—all found in one place at Sid Mashburn at the Brentwood Country
city scene
1: Tattoo artist Scott Campbell, actress Lake Bell and their son at P.S. ARTS Express Yourself 2026, held at the Fox Studio Lots. 2: P.S. ARTS’ Director of Advancement Jennifer Childress, CEO John Lawler and board members Shelton Wilder, Shari Rosenblum, Carolyn Giangiacomo, Jose Vitela, Carleen Cappelletti, Eric Hall, Brielle Block and Tawny Krintzman. 3: The event highlighted the organization’s mission to create joyful, meaningful art experiences while expanding equitable access to the arts. 4: Board Chair Carolyn Giangiacomo with her husband, Damian Giangiacomo and two of their kids. 5: Actor Chad Lowe. 6: Board member Shelton Wilder with Katy Downing at Shelton Wilder Group’s booth, where kids made adorable “Wilder Windows” picture frames. 7: Gail Greaves Hack with her daughter and event sponsor Rachel Miriam.
Photography by Chelsea Lauren/Shutterstock (Images 1, 3, 5, 7), Earl Gibson III/Getty Images (Image 2) and Jessica Yang (Image 6)
1: The second annual Freedom Seder Los Angeles was held at Stephen Wise Temple with a host committee that included Paramount’s Deborah Marcus and political analyst Van Jones. 2: Jill and David Marinoff with Michelle and Gary Schoenfeld at the inspiring event, which brought together Black, Jewish and Black-Jewish leaders to celebrate Passover and the Exodus story. 3: Co-hosts Amanda Berman, executive director of Zioness and Bishop Michael Fisher of Greater Zion Church. 4: Comedian Tiffany Haddish and Rabbi Yoshi Zweibeck of Stephen Wise Temple took the stage. 5: A performance by singers Larissa Longley and Cantor Emma Lutz. 6: David “Ziggy” Marley. 7: Lisa Edelstein and Jacqueline Hantgan.
Photography by Randy Shropshire/Getty Images
1: Cory Hillman and Tory Korth at a charity shopping event at Capitol supporting Children’s Hospital Los Angeles’ annual “Make March Matter” campaign. 2: Jill Bronstein of Style Salon and Debbie Valner. 3: Shelby Muehlstein. 4: Alex Carter, Jillian Green and Dawn Wilcox of CHLA with co-host and Perelel co-founder Victoria Thain Gioia (second from left). 5: Meanwhile, Brit Shaw Johns and Taylor Timmer co-hosted an afternoon of shopping benefitting CHLA at Kilte’s new Montana Avenue boutique. 6: Kilte founder Hannah Hale Redfern. 7: Kiley Anderson, Lauren Blum and Laurie Haller.
Photography by Caitlin Slee (Images 1-4) and Ashley Barrett (Images 5-7)
1: Actress and host Jackie Tohn with television producer Chuck Lorre, recipient of the inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award, at Venice Family Clinic’s 2026 HEART (Health + Art) Gala. 2: The evening also honored philanthropist and artist Anissa Balson alongside The Hearst Foundations for their longtime partnership with the organization. 3: Venice Family Clinic CEO Dr. Mitesh Popat at the event, which was held at 3Labs in Culver City. 4: Curator and writer Jenelle Porter, ICA LA executive director Anne Ellegood and renowned artist Mary Weatherford. 5: Lauren Lake and Timothy Potts, director of the J. Paul Getty Museum. 6: Lilit Saakian and Kim Page. 7: The evening concluded with an intimate performance by Chris Martin of Coldplay. Photography by Shutterstock for Venice Family Clinic
Where Dreams Take Shape
business monthly
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Lashlette: Brentwood Beauty, Naturally Elevated
Founded by Mitzi Runyan, Lashlette is a refined beauty studio where clients feel restored, confident and genuinely cared for. Known for luxury lash extensions, lifts, brows and HydraFacial® treatments, each service is delivered with meticulous technique and an intentional approach to self-care. What began as a small local studio has become a trusted destination for natural, confidence-boosting beauty. Lashlette also offers discreet men’s grooming services, including expert brow shaping and facials. 11716 San Vicente Blvd.; 310-210-6206; lashlette.com
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Legacy Home Building with Anderson Construction
Established in 1928, Anderson Construction has spent nearly a century building some of Southern California’s most exceptional homes and commercial projects. Today, USC graduate Larry Anderson continues the family legacy with a deeply local approach to luxury construction. The firm offers full-service expertise— from permit expediting and pre-construction planning to design-build, general contracting and construction management. As Malibu and Pacific Palisades begin rebuilding, Anderson Construction brings both experience and compassion to helping families thoughtfully move forward. 805-910-8300; andercon.net
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RoseRoom Salon is Brentwood’s Go-To for Great Hair
RoseRoom Salon brings expert hair artistry to Brentwood Village in a warm, welcoming setting. Created by sought-after westside hairdressers—stylist Kate D’Andrea and colorist Amber Munoz—the salon was designed as a neighborhood space where natural beauty takes center stage. Known for precision cuts, dimensional color, balayage, extensions, blowouts and makeup application, RoseRoom offers personalized service and effortless, polished results. Mention “Brentwood City Lifestyle ” for 20% off your first blowdry, haircut or color service. 142 S. Barrington Ave.; 424-293-2644; roseroomsalon.com
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Mizokami ACSL Therapy: The Ultimate Lymphatic Massage Specialists
Mizokami ACSL Therapy has opened its second location in Brentwood, bringing its sought-after lymphatic massage services to the westside. Founded by Sylvia Mizokami—a veteran in the field with a long-established practice in San Clemente— the therapy center is known for its specialized Mizokami Advanced Circulatory Sports Lymphatic (MACSL) technique, a medical-grade method blending circulatory, sports and lymphatic massage. Equally healing and therapeutic, the treatments have earned a devoted following among both men and women. 11633 San Vicente Blvd., #206; 424-535-3525; mizokamitherapy.com
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Summer Camps at Brentwood Art Center
A longtime creative home for local families, Brentwood Art Center has inspired artists of all ages for over 55 years. Now located in a beautiful space in Santa Monica, the nonprofit offers weekly summer art camps for ages 5–12 beginning June 15. Students can explore drawing, painting and collage, along with specialty camps in clay, anime and sewing, as well as teen drawing and painting camps. Scholarships are available and can be supported through BAC’s scholarship fund. 1625 Olympic Blvd., Santa Monica; 310-451-5657; brentwoodart.org
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Fred Fitness: LA’s First AI-Powered Gym
Fred Fitness is redefining the gym experience as Los Angeles’ first full-scale AI-powered fitness club. Following a personalized assessment, groundbreaking technology creates a customized training program while smart machines automatically adjust to each member’s body, strength and goals—removing the guesswork from workouts. The result is a highly personalized, data-driven approach to strength, cardio and overall wellness. Mention “Brentwood City Lifestyle ” for rates are as low as $100 per month. 1344 4th St.; 310-394-3733; fredfitness.com
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ARTISAN CHARCUTERIE & CURATED GRAZING BOARDS
The Social Graze LA creates elevated, artfully curated grazing tables and boards designed to bring people together. Each spread is thoughtfully styled with premium cheeses, charcuterie, and seasonal elements, turning every event into a memorable experience. Perfect for intimate gatherings or large celebrations.
Let’s create something beautiful - contact us today.
www.TheSocialGrazeLA.com 917-566-4345 | Hello@thesocialgrazela.com
Teryl Designs Landscaping
"It's Time to Entertain in the Garden"
Design | Lighting | Hardscape
Traditional | Contemporary | Spanish | English Gardens
"I love living and working in Brentwood and meeting new neighbors while designing their gardens and outdoor spaces. If you are in need of some local help and insight, please do not hesitate to reach out."
- Teryl Ciarlo, Founder of Teryl Designs
teryldesigns.com | (310) 463-7863 | @teryldesigns Los Angeles, California 90049
Thoughtful Management for Homes that Require More
Ensuring your home is properly cared for— whether you’re there or not
We manage maintenance, vendors, and day-to-day oversight with care and consistency—so nothing is missed, and your home is always well looked after.
locally owned and operated
webbandbaker.com
SUMMER TRAVEL BEGINS
RoseRoom Salon
MY TOWN: MILES FISHER
“The guys at Lone Wolf Cigar Company have nailed it. Quiet, central location. A handsome, masculine lounge. The best cigar selection in town. Whenever I want to take a two-hour trip out of LA, it’s a five-minute drive to the coolest secret treehouse around.”
11950 Wilshire Blvd.; 310-458-8000; lonewolfcigars.com
“Nine holes. Par 3. A great breakfast sandwich. Your minimal greens fee goes toward our veterans. Totally fine to bring a four-year-old. Heroes Golf Course is the undersung hero of the westside.”
11301 Wilshire Blvd., Bldg 329; 310-473-0710; heroesgolfcourse.com
“I am an adult. It’s time I dress like one—without looking like I’m trying to. Sid Mashburn has the best quality for the sharpest looks, and you’ll walk out wearing the clothes. Not the other way around.”
225 26th St., Suite 34; 310-319-1339; shopmashburn.com
Miles Fisher has never followed a single lane. The Dallas native first built his career as an actor, appearing in more than fifty film and television projects before finding an entirely new audience online. As a founder of the pioneering generative AI company Metaphysic.ai, his uncanny Tom Cruise deepfake impressions quickly went viral, earning millions of views and collaborations with the likes of Paris Hilton and Hailey Bieber, while attracting more than 400,000 followers on Instagram. Today Fisher’s work sits at the intersection of media, technology and culture—advising founders and investors, developing new ventures and writing the Substack newsletter Fisher’s Island, where his observations on taste, fashion and modern life have cultivated a devoted following. At home in Brentwood with his wife, Lucette, and their two daughters, Fisher appreciates the neighborhood’s strong sense of community. “Brentwood is a real neighborhood— one of the last on the westside that still feels like one,” he says. “The schools, the parks, the fact that you can walk somewhere. In a city that can feel very produced, Brentwood still has some texture to it.” Here Fisher shares a few of his favorite local spots. milesfisher.substack.com
“Telefèric Barcelona is my favorite grown-up lunch spot. Excellent food by real Spaniards, plenty of natural light and no one overhearing your conversation. The adjacent market is also tops.” 11930 San Vicente Blvd.; 657-567-2679; telefericbarcelona.com
“There’s no shortage of good Italian in town, but Divino never feels like a production. After a while, who needs Aspen when the skiing is just as good at a place you’ve never heard of in Utah—but the ease and ambiance are better? Goran has created something equally elegant, without the performance of it.”
11714 Barrington Ct.; 310-472-0886; divinobrentwood.com
“Half of my wife’s closet is made up of Kilte. Impossibly practical smart-casual, elegantly executed by Hannah Redfern— always a considered look that never insists upon itself.”
1306 Montana Ave., Santa Monica; 310-310-8798; kiltecollection.com
“That old upsell at the mattress store—’You know, you spend a third of your life in bed’—is annoyingly persuasive when justifying a good night’s sleep. Well, I figure 100% of my life is lived in this body. Monarch Athletic Club is the best in its class.”
11611 San Vicente Blvd.; 424-246-9594; monarchclubs.com
THE FLAVOR COLLECTIVE
Neighborly blends an impressive collection of culinary voices into one seamless destination
On any given afternoon in Brentwood, the rhythm of the neighborhood is easy to spot. Parents move between school pick-ups and sports practices, friends meet along San Vicente for a quick lunch and families begin the familiar daily question: “What’s for dinner?” It’s a pace that demands both quality and convenience—and increasingly, a place that can offer both. That idea
ARTICLE BY CAROLE DIXON
Neighborly Brentwood features a marketplace and merch on display.
Photograph by Ashley Randall
sits at the heart of Neighborly, the new culinary hub that debuted this April in the former Planta space on San Vicente Boulevard.
Imagine a multi-kitchen concept housed inside a convivial restaurant setting—with comfortable booths, contemporary décor and attentive service—where guests can relax and enjoy a meal while sampling dishes from several chefs at once. At Neighborly Brentwood, diners can mix and match menus from a lineup that includes Gaby Dalkin of What’s Gaby Cooking, Glendale’s beloved Mini Kabob from Armen Martirosyan, Mixtape from Grammy- and Academy Award–winning musician Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson and Palermo Pizza Club from Brooklyn pizzaiola Frank Pinello. Together, the concepts bring a diverse range of culinary voices under one welcoming roof. It’s an idea that works equally well for groups, solo diners looking to explore different cuisines in a single sitting or families with famously finicky eaters.
Behind the concept is Mario Del Pero, CEO and co-founder of Neighborly and a partner at DFG Ventures in El Segundo. Raised in Northern California, where his father owned a meat company, Del Pero developed an early appreciation for food and hospitality. A fast-casual dining pioneer and proud USC alum, Del Pero helped redefine the category as co-founder of Mendocino Farms with his wife, Ellen Chen, and has launched numerous restaurant ventures across Southern California. Through DOM Food Group, a venture studio that incubates, invests in and operates food businesses, he also spearheaded Goop Kitchen, the wildly popular virtual dining arm of Gwyneth Paltrow’s lifestyle brand.
In many ways, Neighborly represents the evolution of the “ghost kitchen” model—bringing that operational efficiency back into a more personal, service-oriented dining experience. “We’re reimagining what the everyday meal experience can be by partnering with amazing culinary talents and focusing keenly on quality, service, variety and ease,” says Del Pero. “At Neighborly, we offer chef-crafted menus and ready-to-go home meal solutions conveniently all under one roof. It’s about providing options and flexibility, so you have the power to customize family mealtime based on the ever-changing needs of daily life.”
After the successful debut of the concept in Westlake Village in 2024, Del Pero saw Brentwood as a natural next step. “Neighborly was designed for Brentwood—one of my favorite neighborhoods in Los Angeles,” he says. “The concentration of residents who are time-constrained, value-driven and quality-obsessed is exceptional. People here want great food and variety without the formality of a full-service restaurant, and that’s exactly the space we set out to create.”
With so many talented fast-casual concepts in Los Angeles, choosing the right partners was an important part of shaping the lineup. According to Del Pero, this started with genuine admiration. “We’re real fans of our partners, of what they create and who they are,” he says. “They’re exceptional at their craft and even better as people, and that matters to us.” From there, the concept was built around the guest experience. “We want to deliver variety, quality and real flexibility, so every visit feels easy and considered,” he says. “The mix is intentional—pizza, kabobs, roasted salmon bowls, gluten-free chicken tenders and more, all curated to work together.”
Gaby’s Green Rice Burrito Bowl
Guests can mix and match dishes across several menus designed to satisfy a wide range of tastes. The opening lineup includes Gaby Dalkin, creator of What’s Gaby Cooking and a two-time New York Times bestselling cookbook author. At Neighborly, her popular Gaby’s Caesar Avocado Wrap and Chinese Chicken Crunch Salad bring her signature Californiainspired flavors to the menu, and her catering offerings are also available through the restaurant.
The venture also introduces Mini Kabob, the cult-favorite Mediterranean grill and kabob eatery from Glendale, led by chef Armen Martirosyan, who saw the partnership as an opportunity to share his family’s 40-year culinary legacy with a wider audience. “What drew us here was a true alignment in values,” Martirosyan says. “It’s not just about growth—it’s about being surrounded by people who genuinely care about quality, hospitality and moving the culinary space forward. This is the right place to continue our story.”
Also in the mix is Mixtape, the playful comfort-food concept from Questlove. The menu offers a modern take on the classic burger joint, featuring gluten-free, seed oil-free crispy chicken sandwiches or tenders, the OGB Royale Cheeseburger and coconut soft-serve “Saturdaes” made without refined sugar.
And adding some East Coast Italian flavor is Palermo Pizza Club, a new concept from Frank Pinello, the pizzaiola behind Brooklyn’s acclaimed Best Pizza restaurant and host of Gozney TV’s Pizza with Frank and VICE’s The Pizza Show. His Sicilianstyle pies are made with 48-hour fermented dough, a nod to his Southern Italian roots. Pastas like Pesto Alla Francesco—rigatoni tossed with almond basil pesto, green peas, roasted tomatoes, potatoes and garlic butter croutons—bring family recipes into the forefront. “The West Coast pizza energy is undeniable right now,” says Pinello. “It’s a little more playful and unconventional. With Palermo Pizza Club, I get to contribute to what’s happening in Los Angeles and have the brand as my test lab. You’ll see me experiment with pizzas here and drop things that push beyond what’s traditional. It’s a dream realized, and I couldn’t be more excited to bring it to Brentwood.”
For Del Pero, the variety ultimately reflects the spirit of the neighborhood itself. “What truly sets Brentwood apart is its sense of community—from the farmers market to the walkable streets of San
Gaby Dalkin of What’s Gaby Cooking
Mini Kabob’s Original Mini Kabab Wrap
“We want to deliver variety, quality and real flexibility, so every visit feels easy and considered.”
Vicente and the surrounding neighborhoods, to the strength of its schools,” he says. “There’s a unique charm here that makes it one of the most special pockets of Los Angeles—and Neighborly was created to be a natural extension of that.”
Complementing the restaurant is the Neighborly Marketplace, stocked with a curated selection of gourmet goods and chef-prepared meals designed to make everyday life easier. Shoppers can pick up everything from Gaby’s salads and herbed chicken to La Morra pizza and Burritos Las Palmas, along with pantry favorites ranging from Hot Girl Pickles to Senior Mango dried fruit with chili. There is also merchandise, such as baseball hats displaying
the various neighborhoods within Brentwood itself—think Brentwood Park, Brentwood Glen, Mandeville and more.
For residents juggling school pickups, sports practices and busy workdays, the concept feels almost tailor-made—a place where great food, flexibility and community come together in one easy stop. After all, what could be more neighborly than that?
Neighborly Brentwood
11754 San Vicente Blvd. 424-289-4124 beneighborly.com
Palermo Pizza Club’s Best Pizza Family Meal
Mixtape founder Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson.
Photography by Christian Germoso
Complimentary hearing screening and otoscopic exam
Tinnitus evaluation and sound therapy management
Custom ear protection for shooting, hunting, & recreational noise exposure
Contracted with Medicare
Providing an environment designed especially for individual exploration and discovery. We foster growth and offer what families want most: the right place for children to be themselves and thrive.
Local Legend
At Brentwood’s Sinclair station, John Fawcett has spent decades serving the community— while a dinosaur named Clair became one of the neighborhood’s most beloved sights
ARTICLE BY AMANDA EBERSTEIN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRISH ALISON
John Fawcett at Sinclair gas station with Clair the dinosaur
At the corner of San Vicente Boulevard and 26th Street, beside the Brentwood Country Mart where Santa Monica meets Brentwood, a bright green dinosaur stands watch over the neighborhood. For years, she has greeted drivers pulling into Sinclair gas station, a cheerful mascot named Clair—a playful spin on Sinclair—who became so beloved that when she suddenly disappeared one night last September, the reaction was swift and emotional. But the story of that stolen dinosaur—and the community that rallied to bring her back—really begins decades earlier, with the man who has stood on that corner welcoming customers for more than forty years.
John Fawcett arrived in Brentwood in June of 1985, when the neighborhood looked very different. Born in Santa Monica and raised in Culver City, he grew up in the gas station business—his father owned a busy station in Westwood near UCLA where John spent his teenage years learning the trade. “By the time I was in high school, I was working there every day,” he recalls. “Pumping gas, fixing things, doing whatever needed to be done.”
Around that same time, another part of his future was taking shape. John had met Cari, the girl who would become his wife, when they were teenagers. “Cari was fifteen and I was sixteen,” John says with a laugh. “We’ve been together ever since.” When the two married and started a family, John was still working at the Westwood station when an unexpected opportunity came along. Union Oil had a closed-down 76 station in Brentwood that they were planning to tear down. But one of the company’s executives believed that John might be able to revive it. “They told me, ‘If you work as hard here as you do in Westwood, we’ll clean it up and hand you the
Sinclair gas station at the corner of San Vicente and 26th
The original Clair dressed in Dodgers blue
keys,’” John remembers. For a young couple with a newborn child, it was both thrilling and terrifying. “It was scary,” he says. “But I believed if I worked hard enough, we could make it work.”
The first year was relentless. John opened the station at six in the morning and often didn’t return home until after midnight. “In the beginning it was just me,” he says. “If someone needed gas, I pumped it. If someone needed an oil change, I’d do that and run back out to pump gas. If someone had a flat tire, I’d fix it. I never turned anyone away.” That philosophy became the foundation of the business. “I always felt that if someone was good enough to drive into my gas station, I should be good enough to help them,” John says.
Back then, Brentwood was quieter and rougher around the edges, and Montana Avenue had none of the restaurants or boutiques it has today. “There was a junkyard, a couple repair shops and not much else,” John says. “Someone once told me Montana was going to become the Rodeo Drive of the westside, and I thought she was crazy.” Over the years, he watched the transformation happen in real time as the area slowly evolved into what it is today.
Today the station sits at that prominent corner as it has for decades, but what truly defines it is not the pumps or the signage—it’s John himself. With his bald head, goatee and twinkling blue eyes, he has become one of Brentwood’s most recognizable figures. “I’m on my third generation now,” John says proudly. “I had the parents come in, then their children and now their kids.” The business has remained firmly in the family. Cari has always been deeply involved, bringing warmth and creativity to the station. Their two daughters—one now a mother herself—have helped throughout the years, while their son Brent, his father’s carbon copy, works there nearly every day. “Brent grew up here,” John says, noting that his own middle name is also “Brent,” and neither were actually named after the town. “He knows the customers just like I do.”
The station’s location beside the Brentwood Country Mart has made it a quiet crossroads of the westside for decades, and over the years the customer list has naturally included more than a few famous names. Paul McCartney once stood quietly on the lot waiting for friends. “I looked over and thought, ‘That looks just like Paul McCartney,’” John recalls with a laugh. “But I told myself there’s no way he could actually be standing in my gas station. A few minutes later people walked up to him and I realized—yeah, that really was him.” But celebrity sightings are not what define the place—it is the relationships built there over four decades.
That sense of familiarity is also what turned a small addition a few years ago into something unexpectedly meaningful. When the station switched from a 76 to a Sinclair in 2019, a customer gave John a small vintage version of Sinclair’s famous dinosaur mascot. “It had just been sitting in his office for maybe twenty years,” John recalls. At the time, the dinosaur was red. John repainted it the signature Sinclair green before placing it out in front of the station. Cari named her Clair. “I thought it was cute—Clair for Sinclair,” Cari says. Then she started decorating her. “I figured the kids in the neighborhood would love it,” she says. They did. At Christmas, Clair became a reindeer with Santa riding on top. At Thanksgiving, she wore turkey feathers. During baseball season she appeared in Dodgers gear. Sometimes neighborhood children even decorated her for their birthdays. “People started stopping just to take pictures,” Cari says. “Kids would wave at her from the car. It just became this little thing that made people happy.”
Then, one morning last September, the unimaginable happened. John received a call from the station before dawn: Clair was gone. Security cameras later revealed the scene: a man approached the dinosaur, realized she was bolted to the ground and returned with a truck and power saw. Within minutes, the bolts had been cut and the dinosaur lifted into the vehicle before the thieves drove away. By the time the sun came up, the
Cari and John Fawcett
neighborhood was already reacting. Parents stopped by the station saying their children were upset. Some adults even came by with tears in their eyes. “It was incredible,” John says. “People were genuinely heartbroken.” The theft came only months after the devastating fires that had shaken the community. “In a strange way, Clair had become this little bright spot,” John says. “After everything the community had been through, people just needed something that made them smile.”
At first John didn’t even want to press charges. “I told the police I didn’t want to waste resources over a dinosaur,” he says. “But the response from the community was so big that they said we had to file a report.” The story spread quickly beyond Brentwood. Television stations picked it up. Then longtime neighbor Jamie Lee Curtis posted about the missing dinosaur on Instagram, and suddenly the story reached millions. For nearly two weeks, Brentwood followed the mystery, until one night around three in the morning, a truck quietly returned. “She was wrapped in plastic,” John says of Clair. “And there was a note that said, ‘I’m sorry. Please don’t prosecute.’” The dinosaur had been damaged, but she was home.
The story might have ended there, but instead it became something even bigger. Sinclair stepped in and offered to create a brand-new dinosaur—larger and gleaming bright green. When the new Clair arrived in March, nearly six
feet tall, John and Cari decided the moment deserved a celebration. The station temporarily closed for a community unveiling party. Food trucks lined the lot and a live band played. Hundreds of neighbors gathered between the pumps where they had filled their tanks for decades. Cari dressed the new dinosaur in gold and sparkles. “When they pulled the cover off, the whole crowd cheered,” she says. “It was really special.”
Today, Clair 2.0 stands proudly once again at the corner of San Vicente and 26th, greeting passersby. The original Clair is temporarily at John’s house (he plans to mount her to the back of a tiny Japanese Honda ACTY truck and drive her around town—more to come). Families still stop to take photos. Children still wave from passing cars. And just a few feet away, John still stands outside welcoming customers exactly as he has for more than four decades. For John, the secret to the station’s longevity has never been complicated. “It comes down to family and the community,” he says. “And the reason we’re still here is because of the people who come in.”
At the corner where Brentwood ends and Santa Monica begins, the cars keep coming, the conversations keep flowing—and the dinosaur, once lost but now returned, stands as a cheerful reminder of just how much one small neighborhood business can mean.
Sinclair Gas Station 13060 San Vicente Blvd. 310-451-1818 sinclairoil.com
The Fawcett’s grandchildren and friends at Clair’s unveiling
A Father’s Day Classic
Timeless style and thoughtful gifts—all found in one place at Sid Mashburn at the Brentwood Country Mart
When it comes to Father’s Day, the best gifts are often the simplest ones—something thoughtful he’ll reach for again and again. At Sid Mashburn at the Brentwood Country Mart, the Atlanta-based menswear brand offers exactly that: timeless pieces that feel both practical and special. Located right next door to Ann Mashburn—the eponymous line by Sid’s wife and creative partner—the shop has become a quiet destination for men who appreciate craftsmanship, understated style and the ease of finding everything in one place. And as a father of five daughters himself, Sid knows a thing or two about finding the perfect gift. “For Father’s Day, the thing he probably wants most is to see and be with his crew,” he says. “Anything else is a bonus—although he probably wouldn’t mind a fresh pair of driving mocs or a new record.” With that spirit in mind, this curated selection highlights a few of the store’s signature staples—from relaxed tailoring and classic shirts to leather goods and everyday accessories designed to age beautifully over time. Whether you’re picking out something polished for Sunday dinner or a piece he’ll wear every day, Sid Mashburn makes Father’s Day shopping refreshingly straightforward—and effortlessly stylish.
Sid Mashburn | 225 26th St., Suite 34 | 310-319-1339 | shopmashburn.com
1. Western Work Shirt in extra light washed indigo chambray, $195 | 2. Virgil No. 2 Suit in stone poplin, $995
Belt in chocolate suede, $175 4. Driving Moccasin in desert suede, $295 | 5. Filson Original Briefcase in otter green, $499
ARTICLE BY BETH FRIEDMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CFP STUDIO PHOTOGRAPHY
OLIVIER ROUMY OF COCOTURF IS REDEFINING SYNTHETIC LANDSCAPING THROUGH CRAFTSMANSHIP, SUSTAINABILITY AND DRIVE
THE NATURAL ADVANTAGE
Olivier Roumy at the Cocoturf showroom in Culver City
“COCONUT FIBER ACTS LIKE A SPONGE. IT ABSORBS THREE OR FOUR TIMES ITS WEIGHT IN WATER. WHEN THE SUN HITS THE TURF, THE MOISTURE EVAPORATES AND COOLS THE SURFACE. IT CAN LOWER THE TEMPERATURE FORTY TO FIFTY DEGREES.”
When Olivier Roumy talks about grass, he speaks about it the way an artist talks about his craft. Texture matters. Balance matters. The way something looks and feels when you run your hand across it matters. For Roumy, the founder of Los Angeles–based turf company Cocoturf, artificial grass has never been just a landscaping product—it’s something to be refined and perfected. Roumy grew up far from Los Angeles, in France’s Loire Valley, a region known for its historic castles, vineyards and winding rivers. “It’s one of the most beautiful parts of France,” he says of the storybook setting. “I actually grew up facing a castle. Not in one, unfortunately—but right across from it.” The countryside shaped his childhood, from long bike rides through the rolling hills to the early obsession that would stay with him for life: motorcycles. “I started riding when I was five or six years old,” he says. “In the countryside, you just ride everywhere.”
Like so many, Roumy came to the United States with curiosity, ambition and little certainty about what his future might hold. He moved to Washington, D.C. in 1998, working as a hairdresser. It was a creative, high-energy world, and Roumy quickly built a reputation for his meticulous work and artistic eye. “I was doing men’s and women’s hair,” he says. “Balayage twenty-five years ago, before it was popular.” The work even took him backstage at New York Fashion Week. “That was exciting,” he recalls. At the time, Roumy had no idea that those early years—focused on artistry, customer service and attention to detail—would eventually shape the philosophy behind a turf company on the opposite coast.
Sixteen years ago, Roumy moved to LA after a close friend and racing teammate, Tim Dennis, invited him to join his company, DuraTurf. Roumy had been racing motorcycles for years, including events at Daytona, and Dennis saw an opportunity for him in the turf industry. He quickly immersed himself in the business, working on a range of projects—including an installation at the Hollywood Bowl. Then everything changed.
“After only three years here, Tim had a heart attack and suddenly passed away,” Roumy says quietly. “He was my best friend.” The company closed, leaving Roumy at a crossroads. But by that point he had discovered something unexpected: he loved the work. “I took some of the employees and started my own company,” he says.
Nearly a decade later, that company has evolved into Cocoturf, a west coast leader in high-quality artificial turf installations known for its proprietary cooling systems and natural infill materials. Roumy’s approach to turf was different from the start. When he entered the industry, he quickly noticed that many companies were focused almost entirely on price. “Most companies were chasing the cheapest product,” he says. “Install it quickly, install it cheap.” That philosophy never appealed to him. “Even though it’s artificial grass, I want the product to look and feel as natural as possible,” he says.
That belief led Roumy to develop the company’s signature system, Cocofill, a blend made primarily from coconut husk and cork designed to replicate the natural behavior of soil. “It’s about ninety percent coconut husk and ten percent cork,” Roumy explains. “Coconut fiber acts like a sponge. It absorbs three or four times its weight in water.” When combined with specialized cooling sand, the system allows moisture to evaporate slowly as temperatures rise, lowering surface temperatures dramatically. “When the sun hits the turf, the moisture evaporates and cools the surface,” Roumy says. “It can lower the temperature forty to fifty degrees.”
For homeowners across Los Angeles—where turf can quickly become scorching under year-round sun—that difference is significant. The system also avoids synthetic infills like rubber pellets, relying instead on natural elements. The products are made in America and are PFAS- and lead-free, reflecting Roumy’s commitment to safer, more environmentally responsible materials.
Roumy’s goal has always been simple: create artificial turf that looks and behaves as naturally as possible. That philosophy aligns closely with the work of Brentwood
landscape designer Teryl Ciarlo of Teryl Designs, one of Roumy’s longtime collaborators. “I love recommending my clients to Cocoturf because it looks so realistic like real grass, and the team is efficient and professional,” Ciarlo says. “I especially feel good about them because their products are made in America and don’t use harmful chemicals. My clients love it because it’s cool to the touch.”
Together, Roumy and Ciarlo have completed numerous projects across the westside, integrating turf into landscapes filled with trees, plantings and natural textures. For Roumy, turf should never dominate a space. “Too much turf wall-to-wall isn’t beautiful,” he says. “You have to design the whole environment so it feels natural.”
Over the years, Cocoturf has installed everything from residential lawns and playgrounds to putting greens, sports training fields and pet-friendly landscapes. Roumy has also completed installations for several local schools, including Milken, Crossroads and Sunshine Preschool, and worked on studio projects that include filming the popular Madden video game. He often reminds clients that turf isn’t a one-size-fits-all product. “Most people touch the samples and say, ‘I like this one,’” he says. “But you have to think about pets, kids, traffic, drainage—everything.” Rather than working with a single brand, Cocoturf sources from a range of carefully vetted manufacturers, allowing Roumy to recommend the best material for each project while staying aligned with his eco-conscious philosophy and Cocofill system. Pet turf, for example, requires highly permeable backing to allow urine to drain quickly and prevent odors. “If it doesn’t drain properly,” Roumy says, “it’s like letting your dog go to the bathroom in your living room.” Roumy operates a small by-appointment showroom in Culver City— what he jokingly calls a “turf boutique”—where clients and designers can see and feel different materials in person. He frequently visits properties as well, walking sites with clients to evaluate how the space will be used and recommending the most appropriate solution for each landscape. Cocoturf also provides maintenance and cleanings for both new and existing clients.
Some projects come with memorable stories. One of Roumy’s favorites involves actor Henry Winkler, whose Brentwood home Cocoturf installed several years ago. For Roumy, who grew up in France watching Happy Days, meeting Winkler felt surreal. “The Fonz with the leather jacket and the motorcycle—I thought he must be the coolest guy,” he says. But what Roumy remembers most is Winkler’s kindness. “Henry bought lunch for my crew every single day,” he recalls.
A picturesque yard covered in Cocoturf
The signature Cocofill is a blend of coconut husk and cork
“WHATEVER
YOU CREATE, IT HAS TO FEEL BEAUTIFUL AND NATURAL.”
“Every morning, he asked the guys what they wanted and went to the Brentwood Country Mart to pick it up. Then at three o’clock he would come out with a plate of cookies for the team.” Roumy had been eager to talk motorcycles with the iconic actor. “I told him I was a motorcycle guy,” he says. Winkler’s response surprised him. “He said, ‘Son, I can’t even sit on one. I’m scared of those things!’” Roumy laughs. “My jaw dropped.”
Recently, Roumy and Teryl Designs have also collaborated on a number of projects tied to the Palisades community following the devastating fires, including relandscaping the Palisades fire station. For Roumy, who had numerous clients in the area, the destruction was deeply personal. “Driving through after the fires was heartbreaking,” he says. Yet the experience also revealed something unexpected about turf itself. “Turf is actually fire retardant,” Roumy explains. “Two homes that had my turf survived. The firemen actually left one of my clients a note. The turf melted, but it helped stop the fire from spreading.”
Today Cocoturf continues to grow, installing projects across Southern California and attracting interest from around the country. But for Roumy, Los Angeles will always be home. “This city gave me everything,” he says. For the boy who grew up in the Loire Valley, the journey to building a thriving American business has been long and unexpected. But the guiding principle has remained the same: craftsmanship matters. “Whatever you create,” Roumy says, “it has to feel beautiful and natural.”
Cocoturf
4935 McConnell Ave., Unit 5
(by-appointment only)
310-957-1900
cocoturf.com
A Cocoturf installation was used on set to film the Madden video game
Turf and infill samples on display
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Trusted Presence
After years protecting the community he loves, Jose Jarita is expanding his mission with Jarita Security Service
For nearly two decades, Jose Jarita has been a familiar presence for many local families—standing near the entrance of Wilshire Boulevard Temple’s Irmas Campus each morning, greeting parents, watching children run toward class and quietly making sure everything feels safe. He has spent 17 years working at the temple, beginning as a security officer and eventually becoming the head of security for the westside campus, home to both a preschool and elementary school. In that time, he has watched thousands of children grow up, building relationships with families who trust him with what matters most. “My top priority is the kids,” Jarita says. “I’m here when they arrive until they leave. Once they’re gone, I can go home happy, knowing every single kid that showed up went home safe.”
For Jarita, the role has never been simply about security—it’s about connection, responsibility and care. “I’m not just here to protect,” says the devoted father of two boys (his youngest attended preschool at the temple). “This is also my family. I actually spend more time with everyone here
ARTICLE BY AMANDA EBERSTEIN
than I do at home.” Ask parents at the school and many will tell you the same thing: Jarita is loved by everyone. After so many years on campus, he estimates he recognizes most of the students by name—and often their siblings as well. “I’ve been here so long I’ve seen their brothers grow up, sisters grow up,” he says. “Some of the kids who started here are already in college.”
That instinct to protect others began long before he ever arrived at Wilshire. Growing up in a military family, Jarita recalls watching his father prepare for work each day. “I vividly remember watching my father put on his uniform,” he says. “From an early age he instilled in me a strong sense of duty and a passion for safety and security.” As a child, Jarita imagined following the same path, often pretending to protect his home alongside neighborhood friends. When he turned 18, he hoped to join the military himself—but his mother had other ideas. “My mom said no,” he says with a laugh. “I still tell her now— you should have just let me.”
Jose Jarita
Instead, he found another route into the field. After briefly working in retail—selling women’s shoes at Nordstrom—he began his security career in downtown Los Angeles before eventually joining the security team at the Staples Center. Within a year he had moved into a supervisory role, and soon after accepted a position with Wilshire Boulevard Temple. At first, the transition felt uncertain. “I grew up Catholic,” he says. “Coming into the Jewish community, I didn’t know how I was going to be welcomed.” The answer came quickly. “From the first day they welcomed me with open arms,” he says. “That gave me confidence to keep learning about the community and growing.”
Over time, Jarita worked his way up from officer to supervisor and eventually to head of security at the Irmas Campus, where he now oversees security teams, coordinates safety protocols and works with intelligence groups monitoring potential threats. In recent years, that responsibility has taken on even greater meaning, and protecting the temple congregation has become more complex—and more personal. After nearly two decades working alongside the families there, Jarita says he feels deeply connected to the Jewish community he protects. “I’ve grown up in this community,” he explains. “I’ve learned it, I respect it, and I care about the people here.”
After so many years protecting families at the temple, a simple request set something new in motion. Four years ago, a parent asked if he could provide security for a bar mitzvah. “Once I did my first one, word got around that I was doing security outside of school,” he says. More requests followed, and Jarita began to realize there was an opportunity to build something of his own. After extensive licensing, training and certification, he officially launched Jarita Security Service two years ago. “For me, this is more than a business,” he says. “It’s a reflection of who I am and what I believe in.”
Jarita Security Service on duty at a local event
Jarita and his two sons
Today, the company has grown into a full-service security operation with a team of trained officers providing protection across Los Angeles. Bar and bat mitzvahs remain an important part of the business—and often how many clients first meet Jarita. At these events, his team manages entrances, greets guests, checks guest lists and monitors the venue to ensure everyone inside is safe.
Officers often accompany buses transporting kids between venues and remain stationed at key entry points throughout the evening.
“It used to be more about making sure the kids behaved,” Jarita says. “Now it’s much more about protecting everyone who is there.”
Jarita also provides security for weddings, private parties and large events, often working alongside planners to coordinate guest access and monitor entrances. Many clients hire his team to protect their homes while they are traveling. Officers may remain stationed on a property, patrol overnight or position visible security vehicles outside the residence to deter burglaries. For longer trips, guards can stay on-site to monitor the property until the family returns. Construction sites are another growing part of the business, with Jarita’s team monitoring more than twenty sites across the region. The company also provides personal security
services when needed. In one recent assignment, Jarita personally accompanied a high-profile client during Coachella. “We do a little bit of everything,” he says.
Jarita says he is especially passionate about expanding security for schools and religious institutions—work that builds on his nearly two decades protecting families at Wilshire Boulevard Temple. His team has already begun working with additional institutions, including Temple Beth Am and Sierra Canyon.
For him, every job—whether protecting a school, guarding a home or securing a private event—comes back to the same principle. “Security isn’t just about presence,” he explains. “It’s about people, trust and understanding individual needs.” That philosophy continues to guide the company as it grows. “I built Jarita on passion and a deep commitment to supporting my community,” he says. “My goal is always the same—to provide not just security, but genuine peace of mind.”
Jarita Security Service offers a variety of services throughout LA
LED BY JOY STEVENS AND DIA PARSONS
AN EXCERPT FROM EPISODE 6 OF SHARE THE LIFESTYLE, A CITY LIFESTYLE PODCAST
Photographer: Brittany Dawn Short
Creative Director: Jen Birn
Stylist: Stephanie Coultress O’Neill
Location: Hotel Saint Cecilia, Austin, TX
MIKE JOHNSON HAS BUILT HIS LIFE AROUND ONE QUIETLY RADICAL IDEA: THE STANDARD YOU SET PRIVATELY IS THE ONLY ONE THAT MATTERS.
After eight years in the Air Force, a celebrated run on national television, and a health crisis abroad that sent him deep into supply chains and ingredient certifications most founders never touch, the result is Oshun — a luxury ritual brand built on provenance you can trace and integrity you can verify. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Mike shares what it actually takes to build something worth putting your name on. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full episode.
Q: YOU BECAME A FAN FAVORITE ON THE BACHELORETTE AND THEN LEFT THE SPOTLIGHT. YOU MOVED TO MEXICO, LEARNED SPANISH, THEN COSTA RICA, AND BUILT A COMPANY. WHAT DID THAT EXPERIENCE TEACH YOU ABOUT HUMAN BEHAVIOR?
A: “If you’re a good person going in, that shows. If you’re not, that shows too. I also learned that people form this parasocial relationship with you — they assume things about you. When all actuality, different circumstances bring out different parts of who you are. I was on TV trying to find love. The kindness people were showing after felt a bit fake, because they wanted to be a part of something that isn’t who I am individually, but a part of what they saw on TV. And so I had to get away from everybody and everything and the noise.”
THE QUIET STANDARD:
MIKE JOHNSON
“Too many people have prayed for me. So I’ve got to get up and do the walking.”
— Mike Johnson
Q: YOU JOINED THE AIR FORCE RIGHT OUT OF COMMUNITY COLLEGE. WHAT WERE YOU ACTUALLY RUNNING TOWARD?
A: “There was something in me that was saying: I’m not living up to my full potential. I was being a follower. My uncle said, ‘What’s going to make you become an adult the fastest?’ I said, obviously, the military. The Air Force broadened my thought process more than anything. We’re so caught up in our own perception — when you learn to understand different people’s perspectives, it adds to you in so many ways.”
Q: WITH OSHUN, YOU OWN YOUR MANUFACTURING, YOU EMPLOY A CHEMIST, EVERY PRODUCT HAS A BATCH NUMBER TRACEABLE TO ITS ORIGIN DATE. WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO GO THAT DEEP WITH THE BRAND?
A: “The EU bans 1,100 ingredients in personal care products. The U.S. bans nine. That’s my starting point. Oftentimes, it might be the same ingredient, but it comes from a place where it doesn’t have the highest purity. And 60% of what we put on our skin is absorbed. Every product Oshun makes carries a batch number that goes back to the exact day it was created — I can show you every single supplier, the date, the origin. I own more than one part of the supply chain because that’s the only way I can stand behind what’s in the bottle.”
This conversation is just the beginning. Mike goes deeper into why he’s buying land up north, the family in the Philippines who prayed over his factory floor, and what he’d tell every person ready to stop performing and start building. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.
MIKE JOHNSON
JUNE 1ST-30TH
Palisades Collective Exhibition
EMECO House, 507 Boccaccio Ave, Venice | 7:00 PM
Founded by Pacific Palisades local Luca Hanazawa Dal Bello, this moving exhibition honors the stories and memories of communities affected by the recent fires. Through photographs, personal narratives and intricate miniature dioramas, the installation transforms shared experiences of loss and resilience into a powerful collective archive reflecting the spirit of the Palisades community. palisadescollective.org
JUNE 12TH
Outdoor
Movies at the Skirball: The Punk Singer
Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles | 8:00 PM
Enjoy a summer evening under the stars at the Skirball Cultural Center with a special outdoor screening of the acclaimed documentary The Punk Singer. The 2013 film traces the life and influence of Kathleen Hanna—frontwoman of Bikini Kill and a pioneering voice in the Riot Grrrl movement—through archival footage and interviews. A special conversation with Hanna herself moderated by the Skirball’s chief curator Cate Thurston follows the film. skirball.org
JUNE 27TH–28TH
Pier 360 Beach Festival
Santa Monica Pier, 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Celebrate the start of summer with two days of ocean sports, live music, food vendors and family-friendly activities along the pier and shoreline. Highlights include paddleboard races, lifeguard competitions, beach volleyball and more. A beloved local tradition that brings the community together by the sea. santamonicapier.org
Summer Starts Here
Eco-inspired and cool by nature, Cocoturf delivers a synthetic turf system that looks and feels remarkably like real grass while staying up to 40° cooler on average. Made in the USA, PFAS-free, antimicrobial and built to last, it offers beauty without compromise. With in-house expertise across residential and commercial projects, pet-friendly yards, custom putting greens and more, Cocoturf brings sustainable, stunning curb appeal to every outdoor space.
Continuing to offer 5% OFF for clients affected by the Los Angeles fires*
*Mention "Brentwood City Lifestyle" to redeem.
PACIFIC PALISADES MOTOR CLASSIC
JUNE 13, 2026
PALISADES VILLAGE GREEN PALIMOTORCLASSIC.COM
Driving Force
In a community known for rallying together, a new event is aiming to bring neighbors back to the streets. On June 13, the inaugural Pacific Palisades Motor Classic will take over the Palisades Village Green, transforming the heart of the neighborhood into a lively showcase of cars, community and westside spirit. The event is organized by longtime local Dave O’Connell, who many residents know as the founder of the beloved Pacific Palisades Turkey Trot, now in its 12th year. But O’Connell’s connection to cars runs deep as well— he spent a decade working at Motor Trend . “We decided to celebrate car culture right here in Pacific Palisades,” he says. “The goal is to drive awareness to the community, bring new business opportunities and create a sense of fun again.” Just as importantly, the event will benefit the Lowe Family YMCA (formerly the Palisades-Malibu YMCA) as it rebuilds, helping support an organization that has long served as a hub for local families. Here are five things to expect.
LOTS OF CARS
Look for an eclectic mix of vehicles spanning generations and styles. “You’ll see everything from supercars and American muscle to European luxury cars, EVs and Japanese domestics,” says O’Connell. Individual owners can also register their vehicles, with autos displayed throughout the Village Green and surrounding streets.
A MEANINGFUL LOCATION
The show will take place at the Palisades Village Green, with several nearby streets—including Antioch, Swarthmore, La Cruz and Alma Real—closed to accommodate the displays. The central location will allow cars and visitors to fill the heart of downtown for the day.
COMMUNITY GATHERING
More than just a car show, the Motor Classic is designed as a community moment—an opportunity for neighbors to reconnect while welcoming visitors from across Los Angeles and beyond.
SUPPORTING THE YMCA
A portion of proceeds will benefit the Lowe Family YMCA, which is currently being rebuilt. Supporting the organization—and its role as a cornerstone for youth programs and local families—is a central part of the event’s mission.
FOOD, ENTERTAINMENT AND MORE
The Motor Classic will also feature food, drinks, sponsor exhibits and special guests, creating a festive, street-fair atmosphere throughout the day.
Dave O’Connell
Our approach is intentional and personal. Each residence is designed around the people who will live there, while respecting the spirit, scale, and character of the Pacific Palisades.