Southbay July 2021

THE MEN’S ISSUE SOUTHBAY.GOLDENSTATE.IS

Run With It ENDURANCE ATHLETE BILLY YANG TURNS TRAGEDY INTO TRIUMPH

SIX DOLLARS

JULY 2021

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Left to right: Melanie Friedlander, MD, Paula Eboli, MD, David Chan, MD, Amirhossein Paymon Mahfoozi, MD

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36 FULL CIRCLE Fletcher Dragge

50 NEW IN TOWN JOEY Manhattan Beach

64 ON THE RECORD Steve Ornest

80 OIL & WATER Mark Levy

84 COMING UP ROSIE Sean Rosenthal

88 ESSENTIALS Looking Good

98 SEEN Who’s Who Around Town

130 LAST WORD

80 84

64

Out of the Shadows

COVER Billy Yang Photographed by Jeff Berting

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26

ALSO...

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70

STEPPING UP

ENDLESS FUN

When the pandemic sent shockwaves

Storms and fires be damned. The Redondo

40

throughout the world and a new surreal

Beach Pier, with all its salty character and

SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT

reality gripped humankind, these South

charm, is here for the long haul.

Rolling Hills Preparatory School

passionately contributed to our community

90

78

in their own exceptional way.

ALL IN GOOD TIME

SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT

An independent watchmaker based in Los

Vistamar School

Bay men selflessly rose to the occasion and

46

Angeles proves that the best things in life are

REFRESHING ROUNDUP

often worth the wait.

100

Got a hankering to cool off? Beat the summer

PROFILES

heat with a few creative cocktail recipes

Men In Business

inspired by the Southwest.

116 54

REAL ESTATE

THE EXTRA MILE

Spectacular local listings

When filmmaker Billy Yang lost his father, he could have easily retreated into detachment.

Instead, he chose to run … toward a lifechanging unknown.

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EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

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Work. Together.

As I write this issue’s letter, my office will reopen to

familiar faces, walks to the coffee station and desk visits

our employees for the first time in over a year. When

from our occasional office dogs.

we moved to this El Segundo space about five years ago,

In the July issue—our annual Men’s Issue—you may

we welcomed a huge upgrade from our tiny but charm-

recognize a few familiar faces from the South Bay. We

ing bungalows near the Hermosa Pier. The new office

connected with a handful of amazing men who stepped

was, well, grown up. It offered style, space and new

up during the pandemic as health professionals, volun-

opportunities to connect with each other and grow our

teers and philanthropists. These are only a few of the

teams. The place was buzzing—from daytime business to

incredible people who made a difference in our com-

evening events.

munity over the last year. We also feature the amazing

Then on a Friday in March last year, we left. Just like

Billy Yang, a filmmaker and endurance athlete driven

that. Tomorrow will be the first time we will be reunited

by a personal story. And we check in with Pennywise’s

as a company, in person. After a year of computers on

Fletcher Dragge, volleyball great Sean Rosenthal, artist

dining room tables, daily Zoom calls and midday neigh-

Mark Levy and several more.

borhood walks, we’ll be side by side in the same space. I

Summer in the South Bay is upon us … make it count.

have to imagine it will be like that first day we moved in: new, a bit awkward and plenty of unknowns.

Work has changed since the start of the pandemic, and we’re dipping our toes in with this first day back. Only time will tell what the new work landscape will look like.

Even if it’s just a couple days a week, I look forward to

22

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Darren Elms

SCOTT SANFORD TOBIS | Scott is a screenwriter, journalist, cookbook author and LA Weekly-nominated playwright (an award he proudly lost to the late Ray Bradbury). He is currently working on a vaguely autobiographical TV series entitled Unmoored. He is endlessly fascinated by the human condition—whatever myriad conditions that might entail.

JARED SAYERS | Jared is a byproduct of the salty waters of the Southern California coastline. He is a South Bay native who somehow found his way into media and publishing, only to discover a love for writing. His subjects vary but all hold one common truth: Their appetite for life is large, and they choose to lead extraordinary lives in very uncommon places.

JEFF BERTING | Jeff is an advertising and editorial photographer who lives in Manhattan Beach. “I love living and shooting in the South Bay with all the diversity it has in people and their activities,” he says. “One day it’s in the ocean shooting surfing, and the next it’s cowboys roping cattle. There aren’t too many places that provide that kind of variety and visual eye candy.” jeffberting.com |

23

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Register at www.elcamino.edu/fall.

JULY 2021 Sound Investment South Bay native Fletcher Dragge pays it forward at home. More on page 36.

Redondo Beach Police Chief Keith Kauffman

stepping up WHEN THE PANDEMIC SENT SHOCKWAVES THROUGHOUT THE WORLD AND A NEW SURREAL REALITY GRIPPED HUMANKIND, THESE SOUTH BAY MEN SELFLESSLY ROSE TO THE OCCASION AND PASSIONATELY CONTRIBUTED TO OUR COMMUNITY IN THEIR OWN EXCEPTIONAL WAY. Written by Diane E. Barber | Photographed by Shane O’Donnell

Chief Keith Kauffman was at the

protocols, which included stringent cross-contamination

helm of the Redondo Beach Police

safety measures, work shift adjustments, outdoor brief-

Department with a watchful eye

outbreak and kept working. Today some of the proto-

“I remember thinking this could

cols have been eased, and anyone wanting a vaccine has received one.

“My job requires an army of people. Everyone’s life

When his daughter returned home

was upended, but they all stepped up and team-played

from college, she tested positive for

100% and continue to do so. I am very proud of that.”

COVID-19. Chief Kauffman packed his

Alex Hakim, MD, a critical care specialist who leads the

van and “COVID-camped” at the police

intensive care unit (ICU) at Providence Little Company

station while his family quarantined.

of Mary Hospital Torrance, was the first doctor to treat a

“This was all new territory. The only thing I knew to

COVID-19 patient at the hospital last year.

“The virus did not behave like anything we were ac-

do was trust my emergency philosophy: Act early, act

customed to, and we were unable to predict who would

often, communicate, make quick decisions and know that

do well and who would not,” he says. “My first patient

there may be some mistakes. I told the entire agency, ‘We

was in her 80s. When I told her about the diagnosis,

are going to make a lot of changes, and we are going to

she was very nonchalant and nothing serious happened

get some things wrong. Just know we will do everything

to her. The second patient, however, a man in his 50s,

we can to protect you and the people in the city.”

required intubation to breathe. After a dramatic 20-day

Keith sprang into action, and his first priority was to find N95 masks for his staff. When he discovered one in his garage that he used to sand his surfboards, he called a

roller-coaster ride, he survived and was released. That was a great feeling.”

According to Dr. Alex, the morale of his team and

friend at ET Surf and said, “Contact the surfboard manu-

ensuring that they felt safe were paramount. “It is emo-

facturers and get me masks.” His friend delivered.

tionally complex to deal with a high mortality situation

Key to his response strategy was an emergency debit

with people’s hopes constantly up and down. When faced

card from the Police Foundation for immediate access to

with uncertainty, panic and anxiety can create a vacuum

resources. “I did whatever I could to get what we needed.

in leadership. So it was important that everyone stayed

I blocked hotel rooms in case personnel needed a place to

positive and focused on the opportunity to help during

stay. I stocked meals at the station so no one had to go

very unique circumstances.”

out to eat. I even traded cans of Lysol for more masks.”

He also secured Dr. Paul’s Immediate Care in Redondo

When Dr. Alex quarantined away from his family at a colleague’s house, he was encouraged by the outpour-

Beach as his department’s medical base. “That relation-

ing of appreciation in the South Bay. The neighborhood

ship was key to our success. We had access to COVID-19

clanging of pans and cheering in celebration of health

tests when they were hard to get and anything else we

care workers, in addition to the cards, food, masks and

needed medically. Dr. Paul also suggested boosting ev-

other donations, were treasured by him and his team.

eryone’s immune system, so vitamins and probiotics were made available to whoever wanted them.”

Keith drastically changed the station’s workplace and

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and plastic-enclosed workstations. They never had an

on the pandemic news last spring. go drastically wrong,” he recalls.

28

ings, entry check-ins, wristbands for building access

Driven by passion and necessity, Dr. Alex assumed many roles during the pandemic beyond ICU doctor: leader, researcher, statistician, photographer (he

Cris Bennett

Michael Greenberg

chronicled the ICU team experience) and community rela-

meals were delivered. “It was a whirlwind!” Cris says. “I

tions figure. “I think every generation has a major crisis,

think my employees benefited as much as anyone by do-

and instead of sitting at home waiting for danger to pass,

ing what we did. Many of them delivered meals and were

it is a privilege to contribute positively to the community.

blown away by how good it felt. I am very proud of them

I always envisioned that my life could be essential to

and the customers who stepped up. I think everyone is

another human being. But I never thought that I could be

strengthened by what we have gone through.”

essential to a population. That is very gratifying.”

Downtown L.A.’s Skid Row was an unlikely place to find Cris Bennett, a Utah native, made a splash in the South

Redondo Beach native Alexander “Xan” Wesley. But the

Bay when he opened his iconic Good Stuff restaurant

Boston University neuroscience and philosophy student

in Hermosa Beach in 1980. Decades later, the restaura-

felt a calling to help prior to starting college last fall.

teur’s business savvy and spirit were challenged beyond

“A friend of mine passed away from renal cancer when

measure in the face of the pandemic. But his compassion

I was in high school, which inspired me to start the Renal

for his family, employees and the community became his

Medullary Carcinoma Research Foundation,” Xan says.

north star as he navigated the new normal.

“I met many doctors and became more interested in

“I thought I had been through everything until this,” he shares. “I canceled our 40-year anniversary celebration

medicine, so I decided to become an emergency medical technician (EMT) to get my foot in the door.”

and shifted to survival mode. The beaches were closed, so

After finishing EMT training, Xan had the choice of

I shut down the Hermosa restaurant for a few months and

working for a local hospital or on Skid Row. He opted for

modified operations in Redondo Beach, Palos Verdes and

the latter—where he believed he was most needed—and

El Segundo. We offered affordable takeout and delivery

went to work for the L.A. County Department of Health

comfort food meals, which became very popular.”

Services. “When I thought about it, I knew I could not

Cris was grateful for his circumstances while other restaurants were shut down, but the imbalance of some people thriving and others losing livelihoods weighed

make a huge difference, but at least I would be one person doing something to make a change.”

Xan worked for the county for six months alongside a

heavily on him. “My daughter Cassidy and I went for a

doctor, two mental health workers and their supervisor,

walk one day last spring and talked about how to help.

who was a nurse and a nun. The team reported to work

I said, ‘I have a vehicle, I have restaurants and I have

at 7:30 a.m. at a base station in a designated building and

time.’ My daughter, who is married to a lifeguard, bril-

packed their carts daily before spending long days walk-

liantly said, ‘Dad, why don’t you do something for the

ing the streets in uniforms and protective gloves, masks

first responders?’”

and gowns. Their mobile lifeline was packed with primary

Cris brainstormed with his team and mobilized the 50,000+ Good Stuff email subscribers and social media followers. “I knew there were a lot of people like me who

care medical supplies, water, masks, socks, COVID-19 testing kits and flu vaccines.

The extreme work conditions did not deter them while

felt helpless. So we came up with a $10 meal donation

they primarily treated wounds and infections and tested

program for first responders as a way to contribute. We

for the virus. Few people had phones, so descriptions were

had 200 donations the first day and 500 more the next

noted of those who were tested. Through the network on

day. We began delivering meals right away to local hos-

the streets, the team was able to find anyone who tested

pital staffs.”

positive (approximately 40 of 1,500) to move them to

The Good Stuff outreach expanded to police, fire de-

quarantine housing. If they refused, they were provided

partments and lifeguards. In three weeks, 2,500 packaged

food and water to quarantine at their makeshift shelters.

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31

“WHEN I THOUGHT ABOUT IT, I KNEW I COULD NOT MAKE A HUGE DIFFERENCE, BUT AT LEAST I WOULD BE ONE PERSON DOING SOMETHING TO MAKE A CHANGE.” – XAN WESLEY

“Most people were happy about us helping them, which was very rewarding. I am definitely going back after I become a doctor.”

Chris Bacon joined the nursing staff at Torrance Memorial Medical Center in 2016. His passion for his career inspired him to pursue a master’s degree, which

When local businessman Michael Greenberg cofounded

led to him becoming a nurse practitioner specializing in

Skechers footwear with his father, Robert, they headquar-

family medicine. In February 2020 he was promoted to

tered the business in Manhattan Beach in 1992 and quickly

director of occupational health and safety.

embraced the vibrant South Bay community. It was the

“One month into my new role, the pandemic hit and

family’s decades-long commitment to the Beach City that

the entire hospital was looking to me for safety protocols

ignited their heartfelt response to the pandemic and em-

in compliance with local and federal regulations,” says

pathy for everyone struggling, particularly restaurants.

Chris. “The previous director had retired, and I did not

“Restaurants are at the heart of what makes Manhattan

have a guidebook to deal with something of this mag-

Beach so unique and special,” says Michael. “When they

nitude. So I spent a lot of late nights researching on the

announced a second closure and I heard about the struggles

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the California

they were having, it was clear that many were not going to

Department of Public Health and the Los Angeles County

survive. We had to rally together for their survival.”

Department of Public Health websites. The first six

And rally they did. The Skechers Restaurant COVID Relief Fund was created to provide support. The Skechers

months were tough.”

With the support of his team (six nurses, a safety of-

Foundation donated $500,000 and reached out to the

ficer and a secretary) and in collaboration with hospital

community to raise an additional $250,000. The company

management, Chris put together policies and procedures

dispersed 29 grants totaling approximately $750,000 to

to safeguard Torrance Memorial’s 4,600 employees. He

several Manhattan Beach eateries. According to Michael,

collaborated with the director of acquisitions to secure

the funds provided much-needed relief and helped some

personal protection equipment (gowns, N95 masks, gloves,

businesses avoid permanent closure.

face shields and medical goggles) during a worldwide

Restaurateur David Slay, who opened Slay Italian

shortage, coordinated COVID-19 employee testing and re-

Kitchen just one month before the pandemic and was

ported results, and he helped mitigate staffing challenges.

operating Slay Steak + Fish House for less than one year

The achievement he is most proud of is the on-campus

with his family, was a grant recipient who was over-

vaccine clinic that he organized. “I was tasked to create

whelmed by the Greenbergs’ efforts and generosity. “I am

something from nothing in seven days to protect the staff

humbled by what Michael and a lot of others did to help,”

and their families, and it was a tremendous success.”

he says. “His office sent letters to restaurants asking if

Chris’ empathy, commitment, selflessness and hard

they needed help, and before I had time to reply I received

work were formally applauded when he was nominated by

a follow-up call. Shortly after that conversation, someone

the director of respiratory therapy to receive the hospital’s

showed up with a check.” With tremendous gratitude,

The Reason is You Award—an honor bestowed on staff

David was able to pay employees, vendors and rent.

members in recognition of extraordinary service and ex-

“Losing some of our favorite restaurants would have

cellence. “Torrance Memorial Medical Center is an amaz-

impacted the community for a long time,” says Michael.

ing place to work,” he shares. “I found myself in a very

“That’s why we stepped in and our neighbors joined the

difficult and challenging role, and the hospital leadership

cause to help them thrive. We’re a small town with big

reached out to me with tremendous support. It was the

hearts, and that’s why I love it so much. I’m grateful to

hardest and most rewarding thing I have ever done, and

be a part of our beautiful corner of the world.”

looking back, I would not have done it any differently.” ■

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Full Circle FLETCHER DRAGGE MAY LOVE TROUBLE, BUT IT’S ALL GOOD WHEN IT COMES TO THE SOUTH BAY. Written & photographed by Kat Monk

If you see Fletcher Dragge walk into The Arthur J, a

has the fastest right hand in the business,” says lead

give him a critical once-over. Fletcher is a big man at

singer Jim Lindberg. “I think some of our best songs are

6’6”—coupled with a big personality, tattoos and a

the ones where he’s written the music and I’ve written

sense of style that does not typically correspond with

the lyrics.” This partnership culminated in a formula

casual business attire.

that resulted in a passionate, honest product—one that

He’s a South Bay success story—not only as one of the founding members of one of the most commercially

More than 30 years later, Pennywise is just as popular.

Fletcher attributes the band’s success to not selling out. It

he didn’t blow all his money living the rock star lifestyle.

was important that the band retain control, especially over

Fletcher is a prolific investor, an entrepreneur and a

lyrical content and putting out their message. The band

Hermosa Beach homeowner.

turned down bigger opportunities with record labels and

perpetually in trouble, commonly referred to by local

stadium concerts so they could oversee their platform.

“Fletcher and I have butted heads over the years … it’s

police as “the Dragge brothers.” While attending Mira

because we care about what we’re putting out into the

Costa High School back in the 1980s, Fletcher connected

world. And when you do, there are bound to be disagree-

with the lyrical content and aggression of punk rock

ments. It just comes with the territory,” says Jim.

music. As some were deciding which college to attend,

Fletcher’s innate knowledge of conducting band busi-

Fletcher came up with a plan and a goal: to live his life on

ness mirrors his entrepreneurial endeavors. With an

his terms.

especially high regard for preserving the personality of

Before he even knew how to play a musical instrument, he wanted to be in a punk rock band and live a life of nonconformity that would allow him freedom outside

the Beach Cities where he grew up, Fletcher invests in businesses true to his heart.

His first few investments included a music studio

the mainstream. Lyrical content would be the key to his

(which he still owns today, called Screaming Leopard

plan, and he would refrain from writing songs just about

Studios), a local Mexican restaurant in Hermosa Beach

“chicks” or overall romanticism.

called Los Muchachos, and a skateboard line for the

Pennywise formed in 1988—originally a local band

against-the-grain clothing line Serial Killer. Since then

that played in exchange for a keg at a party. Soon those

he has also invested in companies such as Third Street

small parties turned into crowds of 600 to 700 people,

Tattoo, Deep Seas Tattoo and The Standing Room.

and the cops would inevitably intervene. As Pennywise

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ultimately connected with their fans.

successful punk rock bands in history, but also because

Growing up, Fletcher and his brother, Kristian, were

36

“When it comes to guitar playing, I’ve always said he

high-end steak house in Manhattan Beach, try not to

Almost 25 years ago, Fletcher bought a house in his

developed a name, they catapulted into a record deal with

hometown. He kicks himself for not also buying the two

Theologian Records and then with Epitaph Records.

surrounding properties. Two motorcycles flank the front of

“WHEN IT COMES TO GUITAR PLAYING, I’VE ALWAYS SAID HE HAS THE FASTEST RIGHT HAND IN THE BUSINESS. I THINK SOME OF OUR BEST SONGS ARE THE ONES WHERE HE’S WRITTEN THE MUSIC AND I’VE WRITTEN THE LYRICS.”

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY | MONDAY-FRIDAY | 310-378-3936 his yard, one etched with his brother’s name and lifespan.

If you hear the stories that Fletcher held the radio hosts at KROQ hostage, destroyed Rage Against the Machine’s dressing room in search of cocktails, and was tasered and ar-

R O B E R T M A R C A N D LU N O R T R U N K S H O W S AT U R DAY, J U LY 24T H | N O O N TO 4 PM

We invite you

to a Private Champagne Reception to view the New Eyewear Collections for Robert Marc and Lunor.

rested after an incident with the band Alesana, remember that he also has defied the odds

R E S E R VAT I O N S R E Q U I R E D — C A L L A S A P T O R E S E R V E YO U R V I S I T

and paid it forward—many times over. ■

H I L L S I D E V I L L AG E | 24 58 0 H AW T H O R N E B LV D, TO R R A N C E , C A 9 0 5 0 5

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S C H O O L S P OT L I G H T

Head of school | Amy 40 Hollinger

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mize the benefits for every type of learner. In

brings a sincere dedication to progressive

addition to the flagship program at RHP, the

education and an ongoing commitment to

school has expanded its approach with two

diversity, equity and inclusion.

schools aimed at neurodiversity: Renaissance School, a program for grades 5–12 that allows

INDIVIDUALIZED EDUCATION

students who learn differently to thrive, and

Even in a post-COVID-19 year, Ms. Hollinger

REACH elementary and middle schools,

joins the schools at an exciting time in their

which provide programs aimed at students in

history. Rolling Hills Prep and Renaissance

grades 4–7 with additional support for execu-

schools, now located in San Pedro, continue

tive functioning and learning differences.

to develop cutting-edge approaches that

The schools are set to celebrate their ruby anniversary with their first female head of

explore subject areas and activities that inter-

school, Amy Hollinger. “I am thrilled by the

est them. Both schools have now graduated

opportunity to join the inclusive and inno-

several classes of students who have received

vative community that is Rolling Hills Prep,

specialized diplomas indicating a focus on

Renaissance and REACH,” says Ms. Hollinger.

a specific field, such as a math and science,

“The commitment to making sure every stu-

arts, and global studies and world languages.

dent has an individual path for their learning

PHOTOGRAPHED BY MELISSA MCDOWELL

give students the individualized freedom to

RHP is also a candidate for the International

combined with a robust arts program and an

Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme,

inclusive approach to athletics in a support-

which encourages inquiry-based and multi-

ive community is the ideal environment for

disciplinary learning and allows for creative

students to thrive.”

explorations of subjects in deep and meaning-

Ms. Hollinger has served as an educator

ful ways. Additionally, the schools have devel-

for 27 years and comes to the RHP family

oped a new academic enrichment program

of schools from Puget Sound Community

designed to identify academic or cocurricular

School—a grade 6–12 independent school in

opportunities—such as no-cut arts and athlet-

the Seattle area where she served as head

ics programs—that allow students to maximize

of school. After beginning her career in the

their potential in fields that interest them.

classroom and serving as a cross country and track coach, she shifted into administrative

“THE COMMITMENT TO MAKING SURE EVERY STUDENT HAS AN INDIVIDUAL PATH FOR THEIR LEARNING COMBINED WITH A ROBUST ARTS PROGRAM AND AN INCLUSIVE APPROACH TO ATHLETICS IN A SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY IS THE IDEAL ENVIRONMENT FOR STUDENTS TO THRIVE.”

REACH Elementary and Middle Schools, the youngest of the family of schools, moved |

41

S C H O O L S P OT L I G H T

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

to the main RHP and Renaissance School campus this past year and was one of the first programs to consistently bring students onto campus for in-person instruction. Although the program is quite new, it is rapidly growing to incorporate additional families that seek a more supportive learning environment for students in grades 4–7 who may need more focused attention in the classroom or with learning skills and executive functioning. The REACH approach to education goes beyond

Students demonstrated their skills during an in-person talent show in May.

support and encourages students to thrive in their social environment, feel confident and develop their own sense of personal agency as they prepare for transitions to middle or high school.

A YEAR OF CELEBRATION Despite the challenges of virtual learning and prolonged departures from campus, RHP ended the school year on a high note in various areas, setting a positive tone for a 40th celebration for 2021–2022. Visual and performing arts students had numerous opportunities to showcase their talents and work throughout the year, culminating in a virtual performance of the musical Clue and a virtual arts show filled with classroom galleries that can be viewed at RollingHillsPrep. org/ArtShow.

The STEM program hosted their second virtual STEM Expo and made a full week of student presentations, guest lectures from STEM professionals and a student-developed

Small class sizes allow for more exploratory and focused work environments for projects or other learning.

STEM podcast—all of which can be viewed at RollingHillsPrep.org/STEMWeek. Many of the athletic programs were able to compete

Looking ahead, the educational teams will

exists again. All three schools are continuing

in condensed seasons, which allowed various

work with Ms. Hollinger collaboratively to cre-

to accept applications for rolling admissions

teams and athletes to compete for the first

ate stronger connections between the three

throughout the summer; more information can

time in more than a year and showcased

schools and their differentiated programs. All

be found at RollingHillsPrep.org.

talented seniors such as Clarice Akunwafo,

three programs will return to fully in-person

recognized nationally by both ESPN and

instruction for the 2021–2022 school year with

ROLLING HILLS PREPARATORY SCHOOL

McDonald’s All-American. Clarice received a

the ability to pivot to a full-featured distance

ONE ROLLING HILLS PREP WAY, SAN PEDRO

full scholarship to USC to play basketball.

learning program in the future if the need ever

310-791-1101 | ROLLINGHILLSPREP.ORG

42

|

An RHP ninth grade student works on the final physics project of the year.

REACH students work closely with their teachers to learn in creative and engaging ways.

Congratulations to the Rolling Hills Prep and Renaissance School Class of 2021

Rolling Hills Preparatory School Class of 2021 Acceptances

Renaissance School for the Arts and Sciences Class of 2021 Acceptances

Bold= Students Attending

Bold= Students Attending

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Refreshing Roundup BEAT THE HEAT WITH COCKTAIL RECIPES INSPIRED BY THE SOUTHWEST. Written, produced & photographed by Kara Mickelson

MICHELADA Serves 2 (about 13 ounces each) Enjoy a refreshing and alluring combination of Mexican beer with lime, tomato juice, piquant spices and a subtle kiss of the sea with a touch of clam juice in the mix. ½ cup lime juice (4 to 6 limes)

second glass. Fill both glasses with

2 teaspoons Chili Spice Mix

ice and pour in equal parts of the

(recipe below)

tomato juice mixture. Split the beer

2 (5½-ounce) cans V8 juice

between the glasses and add ad-

¼ cup (4 ounces) clam juice

ditional lime wedges.

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1 to 2 teaspoons Tapatío hot sauce

Chili Spice Mix

lime wedges for garnish

1 teaspoon kosher salt

ice

½ teaspoon freshly ground

12 ounces Tecate beer

black pepper ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Combine lime juice, 2 teaspoons

(ahumado)

Chile Spice Mix, V8 juice, clam

¼ teaspoon celery salt

juice, Worcestershire sauce and hot

1 tablespoon chili powder

sauce in a pitcher. Set aside. Pierce

1 tablespoon ground cumin

the inside of a lime wedge with

¼ teaspoon garlic powder

the edge of the glass and run the

½ teaspoon onion powder

lime around the edge to moisten

3 teaspoons granulated sugar

the rim of a glass. Spread remain-

pinch cayenne pepper

ing Chili Spice Mix in an even layer on a small plate and dip the rim of the glass into it. Repeat on

Combine all the ingredients.

COWBOY COMFORT HONEY WHISKEY LEMONADE Serves 1 (about 9½ ounces) Saddle up with soothing caramel, vanilla and woodsy notes of bourbon whiskey paired with tart lemon, sweet honey and thyme. ½ cup lemon juice (4 to 5 medium lemons) Honey Simple Syrup (recipe below) 1½ ounces bourbon whiskey, or more to taste 2 tablespoons sugar 1 tablespoon crushed flake salt large ice cubes thyme sprig for garnish Combine lemon juice, Honey Simple Syrup and whiskey in a pitcher. Combine sugar and salt; transfer to a small plate and distribute in an even layer. Dip rim of glass into lemon juice and then into sugar-salt mixture to coat. Add ice to the glass. Slowly pour whiskey mixture into glass. Add a sprig of thyme and serve.

Honey Simple Syrup ¼ cup water ¼ cup honey Combine honey and water in a small pot over medium heat. Cook and stir until honey is fully incorporated and sauce bubbles on top, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool. Honey syrup can be made three days in advance. Cool, cover and store under refrigeration. Add a small amount of water if needed to thin syrup to a pourable consistency.

DESERT ROSE STRAWBERRY DATE PALOMA Serves 2 (8 ounces each) This blended, tart drink of grapefruit juice, lime, honey and sweet strawberry is just the right amount of cool to beat the heat.

10 to 12 slightly frozen strawberries ½ cup fresh grapefruit juice 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime) 1 tablespoon honey 4 Medjool dates, seeded 3 ounces mezcal or tequila, divided ½ cup club soda 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 2 tablespoons flake salt, crushed small ice cubes 2 drops rosewater per drink, optional garnish: cocktail pick with 1 lime wedge, 1 small Medjool date (seeded) and ½ small strawberry Blend strawberries, grapefruit juice, lime juice, honey and dates in a blender until thoroughly combined. Stir in mezcal or tequila and club soda. Combine sugar and salt; transfer to a small plate and distribute in an even layer. Pierce the inside of a lime wedge with the edge of the glass and run the lime around the edge to moisten the rim of a glass. Dip the rim of the glass into the sugar-salt mixture. Repeat on second glass. Fill both glasses with ice; pour in equal amounts of blended drink. Sprinkle rosewater on top, add garnish and serve immediately.

New in Town A NOTABLE RESTAURANT GROUP MAKES ITS MARK ON SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA WITH A THIRD LOCATION—MANHATTAN BEACH—AND BRINGS A NEIGHBORHOOD FEEL TO GLOBAL FARE. Written by Jennie Nunn | Photographed by Christina Gandolfo & Victor Yuen

It’s hard to miss JOEY Manhattan Beach, a new resort-like restaurant at Manhattan Village. The modern, 9,400-square-

ventive dishes from a diverse menu, such as Baja cauliflower

millwork, an expansive heated outdoor patio, a green ceiling

tacos with fried cauliflower, guacamole and paired with fries;

installation and a large-scale abstract art piece by local graf-

Bollywood butter tofu with aromatic basmati rice, papa-

fiti artist Amber Goldhammer.

dum and grilled naan; spaghetti pomodoro with Calabrian chili-spiked tomato sauce, whipped ricotta, fresh basil and

29 other locations throughout Canada and Washington),

Parmesan; and an Impossible burger served atop a brioche

JOEY Manhattan Beach features special touches such as a

bun with secret sauce.

bar topped with quartzite and a complimentary glass of

Her three favorites are the tuna poke bowl, hummus, and

Champagne upon arrival. But a huge part of the newcomer’s

hearty steak and lobster ravioli. “The hummus dish comes

success is Chef Rachel Mahoney.

paired with our house-made tzatziki and warm, crispy naan

“Guests have the opportunity to try cuisine from all over

chips,” she explains. “This dish is garnished with a toasted

the world,” she says. “We offer a little bit of everything—

cumin spice blend and an array of fresh herbs, currants and

from your traditional American cheeseburger or USDA Prime

drop peppers to expand the flavor profile and provide some

steak to our Bombay butter chicken, and we even offer sushi.

bright color to the plate. Our tuna poke bowl is another dish

What I love most about our menu is that it’s playful and

with an intricate combination of flavors and textures. We put

diverse. Whatever our guests are in the mood for that day,

our JOEY twist on it by incorporating some of our house-

we can easily accommodate each of their cravings. There’s

made carrot miso dressing and umami sauce throughout the

always a little something for everyone.”

dish to really amplify the flavors and create that satiating

Before landing at JOEY, Rachel—a New Jersey native—

taste of soy sauce without having to add it to the plate. Last

spent time working at a family-owned Italian bakery for

but not least, our steak and lobster ravioli is our take on

seven years. She dreamed of opening her own bakery and

a ‘surf and turf.’ It puts lobster on a ravioli pedestal with

eventually earned a bachelor’s degree in hotel and restaurant

truffle beurre blanc and garlic shrimp framed between thick

management at the University of Delaware with hopes of

cuts of our prime sirloin—the ultimate decadence.”

postgrad education in baking and pastry.

“During my senior year of college, I transitioned my bak-

Apart from the something-for-everyone menu, JOEY offers a distinctive cocktail program with libations spanning the Rosé

ing dream into a career goal centered around leading people

Spritz with rosé wine, lemon, peach, grapefruit, almond oil

and running a business,” explains Rachel, who received a

and club soda, and the Super Stoked Jack+Coke comprised of

certificate of culinary arts from the Culinary Institute of

Jack Daniel’s Tennessee whiskey, Coke and lemon-lime slush.

America in St. Helena. “After my big but short-lived move

|

Rachel manages the kitchen and stays busy prepping in-

foot eatery is appointed with dark wood siding and wood

The third location to open in Southern California (with

50

as my new home and JOEY as my new team to lead.”

“One menu addition that we are excited to offer is our

across the country, I began my culinary career with Hillstone

Watermelon Drink,” says Rachel of the concoction of Absolut

Restaurant Group in Bethesda, Maryland. Little did I know

vodka, fresh watermelon, agave syrup, fresh mint and lime

this journey would have me working in cities I would’ve

juice cane syrup. “This cocktail will only be available through

never imagined including Houston, Atlanta, New York City

the summer months, so come enjoy it before it’s gone. Also,

and of course Los Angeles. After living a bit of a nomadic life

don’t forget to ask your server about our secret menu item,

and running kitchens across the country, I claimed California

available in select JOEY locations including ours.” ■

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the extra mile WHEN FILMMAKER BILLY YANG LOST HIS FATHER, HE COULD HAVE EASILY RETREATED INTO DETACHMENT. INSTEAD, HE CHOSE TO RUN …

TOWARD A LIFE-CHANGING UNKNOWN. Written by Jared Sayers | Photographed by Jeff Berting

What do vanilla ice cream and adversity have to do with one another? Let me attempt to explain.

Comfort. Contentment. Work the safe job, pat yourself on the back when looking at the bank account, pick up a couple vices, have a green lawn and bounce along life’s road, hoping to bump into happiness somewhere along the way.

A widely accepted ideal of how we need to be in the Western world: Play it safe. Stick with the vanilla ice cream, because you know what? Vanilla tastes pretty darn good. And whatever you do, don’t try a different flavor.

Why? Well it might disappoint you. And that won’t feel very good. It’s comfortable right here, good ‘ol vanilla.

Someone once told me that if you never bump up against things in life that feel like they’re going to take you out, then you’re not doing a very good job. What?

That seems awfully counterintuitive, doesn’t it? If you’re not getting bucked off the horse, then you’re not doing it right? I don’t get it.

Billy Yang gets it. Billy had the safe job. Billy was comfortable with his bank account. Billy had some vices, namely smoking. And according to the world, Billy was right where he was supposed to be. At the time he probably would have told you life was just fine.

Yet in hindsight, he can now see there was also a pull.

Almost like a subtle nudge somewhere inside, as if to say, “There’s so much more.” It was around this time Billy tragically and unexpectedly lost his father.

The disorientation that comes with death—particularly the loss of a father—is debilitating. What Billy found in the midst of coping with the loss of his father was that his job, bank account, smoking and living for the weekend were not lending themselves to the answers he now sought.

Why did his father have to die? Why does life take such severe turns? Why is it so hard at times? The way he was told to be in the world and the comfort he had created for himself could not solve any of those questions. This is where most give up. Mask the pain. Choose comfort,

|

57

BILLY STARTED WITH WHAT WAS NECESSARY. HE DELIBERATELY CHOSE TO TAKE THE ROAD LESS TRAVELED AND STARED ADVERSITY SQUARE IN THE EYES. THERE WAS NO HANDBOOK. NO REFERENCE POINTS. HE VENTURED OUT INTO THE UNKNOWN—SEARCHING. SEEKING FOR MORE. DEMANDING EXPLANATIONS. HE LISTENED TO THAT QUIET NUDGE FROM SOMEPLACE DEEP WITHIN. A CURTAIN WAS PULLED BACK, REVEALING TO HIM WHAT WAS POSSIBLE.

sweep things under the rug and hope the road gets a little

densely populated urban Los Angeles … in the clothes he

less bumpy over time.

went to work in that day? That must have been a sight.

But that wasn’t good enough for Billy. He demanded more and wanted answers—no matter how much it hurt.

knew was no longer serving him—and running toward

His first step: Quit his job and pick up the family business

something riddled with uncertainty. The outward specta-

where his dad left off. Then: Quit smoking … but how?

cle was overruled by the internal propulsion moving him

Every time he’d crave a cigarette he would immedi-

forward to life’s larger questions that lie on the horizon.

ately drop what he was doing, run out the door and sprint

60

|

Billy was running with his hair on fire from a life he

And so the progression began for Billy. Running around

around the block until the urge went away. Over time the

the block turned into signing up for his first half mara-

urge began to weaken.

thon, which gave way to his first full marathon, which

Pause.

dovetailed into the world of trail running. That ultimately

A grown man in a dead sprint … in the middle of

put him at the starting line of his first 100-mile race

As a filmmaker, Billy often merges his love for the outdoors with a passion for storytelling.

called the Angeles Crest 100. He finished 24 hours later.

Let me emphasize for effect: running … for 24 straight

faint of heart.

Western States has hosted names like Scott Jurek, Ann

hours. Most of us don’t run for more than 10 minutes. Let

Trason, John Trent and Kilian Jornet Burgada—ultrarun-

alone one hour. Let alone 24 of them.

ners, gods and goddesses. Larger-than-life characters

Which leads me to Western States 100—the oldest and most iconic 100-mile race in the country. It starts in

running unspeakable distances.

And in 2015 Western States also got to host Billy

Squaw Valley, California, and ends in an old mining town

Yang—a kid from Seoul, Korea, raised in Los Angeles,

just outside Sacramento. Each runner will ascend from

who was forced to cope with the premature departure of

the valley floor at 6,200 feet above sea level and climb

his father, and who started asking deeper questions that

almost 3,000 additional feet in the first 4.5 miles before

eventually landed him on the starting line of the most

heading west on high-altitude trail passes and then

prestigious ultra endurance races in the world. Happily

descending 23,000 feet into Auburn. Yeah, it’s not for the

ever after? Not necessarily.

|

61

Halfway into his race (let me remind you, that was

problems or exchanging one vice for another. I’m here to

crossings and quads that were giving out on him, he

say those people probably don’t run and love vanilla ice

thought he was going to have to toss in the towel and go

cream. Running is never the easy choice. It expands the

home. But he didn’t. He kept going. His crew was there to

mind, bringing what is true to the surface. It does not

physically aid him, and his friends were there to emo-

fuel a false sense of self, yet it forces a reckoning with

tionally aid him. And he kept going.

humility. It is the ultimate truth-teller and acceptor. It

One foot in front of the other. Must. Keep. Going.

Small painful steps, one after another, which took him

You want answers? Billy would say go find yourself a bit of adversity. Lean into it. It may hurt a bit at first, but what

100 miles later.

comes out the other side far outweighs the hurt. Things like

“Start by doing what is necessary; then do what’s possaid Francis of Assisi.

joy, fulfillment, pride, friendship, community. And with those we begin to find some of the answers we seek.

It should be said that Billy admits to not having this

Billy started with what was necessary. He deliberately

whole thing figured out. He is still searching. And that

chose to take the road less traveled and stared adversity

is fine; he can take as long as he needs because he has

square in the eyes. There was no handbook. No reference

tapped into a beautiful alchemy that starts with the

points. He ventured out into the unknown—searching.

simple act of lacing up a pair of running shoes. From

Seeking for more. Demanding explanations. He listened

there things are brought into focus, deep connections are

to that quiet nudge from someplace deep within. A cur-

fostered and, maybe most of all, joy is realized. Yes, this

tain was pulled back, revealing to him what was possible.

can be fun!

Doesn’t vanilla ice cream now seem a bit boring?

Wherever life is found, shadows also will be cast. Many ultra endurance athletes can come under the scrutiny of

|

fosters community.

another 50 miles and put him at the finish line in Auburn

sible; and suddenly you will be doing the impossible,”

62

naysayers with accusations of simply running away from

around mile 50), with emaciated feet from the river

Keep going, Billy. Because life provides a wide array of delicious flavors of ice cream, and no one should have to settle for vanilla. ■

ORTHOPAEDIC URGENT CARE WALK-INS WELCOME Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

See one of our expert musculoskeletal specialists and receive the care you need in a safe, clean and open environment. We offer sanitized exam and waiting rooms, open spaces for physical distancing and proper protective equipment for staff and patients.

(310) 879-5317 KeckMedicine.org/sportsinjury ©2020 Keck Medicine of USC

On the Record PRODUCER STEVE ORNEST BRINGS A MUSICIAN’S EAR TO A NOTABLE REDONDO BEACH STUDIO. Written & photographed by Kat Monk

At Peninsula High School in Palos Verdes, Steve Ornest

to drive him to and from the music studio. Subsequently,

was the long-haired guy always with a guitar. Infatuated

Steve’s mom and Wyn met, fell in love and got married.

with music from an early age, he started playing piano at

Although they were only married for several years, Wyn

6, transitioning to guitar in his teen years.

remained a pivotal role in Steve’s life—not just musically

Steve was playing music while sitting on the bleachers when a fellow student told him he should meet her

but as a father figure.

After spending a couple years touring and playing

dad, Wyn Davis, a local music producer. Wyn owned the

with established artists around the world, Wyn suggested

state-of-the-art recording facility Total Access Recording

that Steve should attend Berklee College of Music. While

in Redondo Beach. That moment would forever change

attending Berklee, Steve intended to continue touring,

Steve’s trajectory.

recording for artists and playing as a “hired guitarist.”

“I went home and looked him up,” Steve remembers.

“It is easy to go from being the hero in your zip code to

“He had produced all these amazing records I grew up

just another musician amidst a sea of talent,” he explains.

listening to like Guns N’ Roses and Dio.”

A musician first, Steve distinguished himself from other

Wyn and his daughter soon went to see Steve’s band

students because of his ability to record music in his dorm.

play a gig at Sacred Grounds in San Pedro. Impressed,

He lived off-campus with some roommates—choosing the

Wyn invited Steve to come by his studio, and Steve started

attic as his room so he could record music there.

playing on recordings with guys almost twice his age.

About 15 years old at the time, Steve relied on his mom

Upon finishing his first year of college, he submitted an original composition to a professor, who was convinced the piece was recorded at a recording studio. It was at that moment that Steve realized he might have

“WHAT I LOVE ABOUT

more to bring to the table than just playing guitar.

MY JOB IS GETTING

temporary writing and production. Fast-forward to the

TO ACT AS A CONDUIT

with Wyn. Steve also met his wife, Michelle, at the studio

FOR AN ARTIST’S CREATIVE VISION.”

64

|

Steve graduated from Berklee with a degree in conpresent, and he is now running Total Access Recording when she came to record there.

He has years of experience playing in all sorts of bands.

“I’ve been on tour in a van playing to half-empty rooms, as well as sold-out festivals and arenas,” he shares.

Steve speaks the language of music and, in turn, helps

his clients as a writer, player, arranger and someone who

the years—from Pennywise to Sublime,” shares Kat

has been there before. “Part of what I love about my job

Corbett, DJ at KROQ. “But it’s great to hear the next

is getting to act as a conduit for an artist’s creative vi-

generation of artists getting their time inside those walls,

sion,” he shares. “Whether I’m capturing their perfor-

like Funkraum.”

mance in the most honest way possible or coming up

tions to the studio. “He has the ability to listen and think

about making the song the best it can possibly be.”

like a musician and as a fan,” explains Mike Sutherland,

Bands such as Black Flag, No Doubt, Guns N’ Roses

66

|

Steve’s colleagues recognize his invaluable contribu-

with production elements that serve as ear candy—it’s all

production manager for Sublime With Rome and Gwen

and Foreigner have recorded at this little gem of a studio.

Stefani. “Most producers aren’t able to go back and forth

“Amazing tracks have been produced in that studio over

like that.” ■

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endless fun STORMS AND FIRES BE DAMNED. THE REDONDO BEACH PIER, WITH ALL ITS SALTY CHARACTER AND CHARM, IS HERE FOR THE LONG HAUL. Written by Jared Sayers

For a while as a kid, crabs were my

Redondo Beach Pier. That is what life was like on the pier

favorite underwater sea creature. I

in 1987. But now—34 years later—much has changed, yet

know. Strange. Most kids like whales, sharks, dolphins. But me? Crabs.

Why, you ask?

My mom would take me to the Redondo Pier when

At its inception there were actually three wharves, the first of which was built in 1888. It was shortly followed by a second, constructed in 1895, and wharf #3 was erected in 1904. By 1910 the three wharves became the major hub for importing and exporting in Los Angeles.

series of outdoor tanks filled to the brim with crabs. They

Their primary cargo: lumber. The rate of building in Los

were piled on top of one another like bricks making up

Angeles at the time was nothing short of an explosion, so

a wall. They would get stacked from the bottom of the

naturally lumber imports quickly became an entire indus-

tank all the way to the top, with their claws breaking the

try and thus one of the city’s most stable businesses.

It was about this time that tourism also began to flour-

a 6-year-old boy, it provided plenty of opportunity for

ish. Adjacent to the wharves was Hotel Redondo, located

gazing and curiosity.

just off the beach. It gave tourists all the amenities and

Every so often a man would come out from the back,

high-end accommodations one would expect when going

see my googly-eyed fascination for the underwater crus-

on a posh vacation: an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts

tacean and stick his hand in the tank to pull out a crab so

and 225 rooms right on the water.

I could take a closer look. Their legs each seemingly had a

By 1926 all three original wharves had taken the brunt

mind of their own, and their claws extended fully—wait-

of multiple winter storms and slowly were dismembered.

ing to clamp down on anything foolish enough to get in

In their place stood a newly constructed fishing pier to the

their way.

south and a brand-new municipal pier just to the north.

Typically I would fall behind, so my mom would take

To protect the piers in 1939, Redondo’s first break-

me by the hand and we would continue down the pier—

water was built—but it only provided subpar protection

aimlessly wandering and killing time. In hindsight, every

from the harsh winter seas. Reason being, most marinas

time we walked out on the pier, the proximity between

are fully contained with inland basins, but King Harbor is

life on land and life under the sea began to shrink for me.

situated completely seaward of the existing shoreline—

I remember looking down into the white buckets placed at the feet of the local fishermen at the end of the

exposing it to the harshest of ocean conditions.

By 1958 the bigger, better Redondo Beach Breakwater

pier. Each bucket would have something different in it.

was completed for a little over $5.5 million with an obli-

Small fish, bigger fish, octopus, stingray … you name it.

gation to the federal government to build the $45 million

And always looming nearby would be a pelican that—to

marina that stands today. The marina includes 1,450

a kid—looked more like a prehistoric pterodactyl. The

boat slips, utilities, a swimming facility (seaside lagoon)

pelican seemed almost as tall as I was, yet completely

and several parking lots. Yet winter storms continued

uninterested in me because it was transfixed over my

to ravage the outer breakwater with massive storms in

shoulder at the fishermen’s buckets—waiting for one

1962, 1963, 1980, 1983 and 1988, with major repairs and

misstep and an open window of opportunity to swoop in

modifications accompanying each.

and pilfer whatever was inside for a quick, easy meal.

The salt air, the smell of fish in the fryer and the sounds

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Like any good story, it started a long, long time ago.

I was a child. There was a seafood market that had a

water’s surface and positioned at about eye level. So for

72

much has also stayed the same. So where did it all start?

1988: That’s where I come in. An 8-year-old kid who enjoyed taking walks with his mom and pressing his

of arcade games off in the distance all made for one unique

nose against the glass of the crab tanks. All innocent and

sensory overload that I could only find in one place: the

tranquil, but then came the storm. Innocent and tranquil

The writer’s personal photos of memories on the pier.

View of the roller coaster and Pavilion from the Endless Pier in 1926. Below: view of the Bath House, approximately 1910.

“I CAN’T HELP BUT HEARKEN BACK TO THOSE WALKS ON THE PIER WITH MY MOM. I COULD FEEL HISTORY AND RICHNESS EVERYWHERE. MUCH OF IT HAS STOOD THE TEST OF TIME.”

it was not.

The ocean bared its teeth on our seaward-facing breakwater and marina. For perspective, I remember walking down to the beach after the storm had blown through and seeing couches, furniture and a plethora of other miscellaneous objects strewn across the sand.

VINTAGE PHOTOS AND POSTCARDS COURTESY OF REDONDO BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY.

Apparently, the storm had its way with a nearby oceanfront hotel just on the other side of the breakwater.

Waves crashed up against the building, destroying about one-third of it and taking many of its belongings and furnishings in the process. Old, dilapidated, salt-encrusted furniture pieces were now left in the middle of the same beach I would eat crackers on after hours of summertime boogie boarding.

It was the same storm that unknowingly loosened some electrical equipment under the pier, which sat like a ticking time bomb well after the storm had passed. Just a few months later, the fire department received a call that smoke was billowing out from underneath the pier. At the time, the pilings were coated with a water-resistant material that unfortunately was also quite flammable. So

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75

within minutes, flames erupted.

I recall standing on the Esplanade at about Avenue A and watching the plumes of black smoke soar thousands

What’s in store from here on for the Redondo Pier?

Only time will tell. Evolution and progression are im-

overhead, and people were all up and down watching as

minent. Yet there is a richness embedded in the history of

our Redondo Pier lit up like a Christmas tree.

the Redondo Beach Pier that mustn’t be overlooked.

I can’t help but hearken back to those walks on the pier

credit of the fire department, the fire was put out within

with my mom. I could feel history and richness every-

a matter of a few hours. But 15 businesses were either

where. Much of it has stood the test of time. Walk through

incinerated or now in the ocean.

the outdoor fish market at Quality Seafood and tell me you

After the fire of ’88, the walks with my mom on the pier felt a bit more ominous. Parts of the pier that were left would stick out from the ocean, charred and mangled, with old debris washing up on shore for months thereafter.

A rebirth was announced in July 1993, and within just two short years the old remains of the fires were cleared

|

to be debated for bigger, better, more.

of feet up in the air. I couldn’t believe it. Helicopters flew

“Were the crabs going to be OK?” I thought. To the

76

increased and newer development conversations continue

don’t feel it. Or stroll to the end of the pier and see if you are greeted by a prehistoric-looking pelican.

Sneak a peek into the fishermen’s bucket to see what’s coming out of the ocean that day. Move a bit slower when visiting, and you’ll notice it’s all still there.

Call me stodgy, or say I lack an evolutionary mindset

and a brand-new concrete structure was erected—firmly

… but a sanitized, wiped-down, bigger, better version

rooted to the ocean floor, rising about 25 feet above

just doesn’t seem like the most appropriate next move.

the ocean surface. Since the new structure was com-

Crab tanks lend themselves just fine to the essence of a

pleted, new tenants have taken up space, foot traffic has

place that has faced seaward for well over 100 years. ■

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S C H O O L S P OT L I G H T

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

CONGRATULATIONS, CLASS OF 2021!

Holding on to hope and a positive attitude, Vistamar School’s graduating seniors concluded one of the most unprecedented school years in history.

WRITTEN BY LAURA L. WATTS

C

|

PHOTOGRAPHED BY CW PRODUCTIONS

ompleting high school and receiv-

every graduating class as far back as anyone

combined with the strength and resolve they

ing a diploma is always a reason

can remember.

exhibited—point to a powerful future, said

to celebrate. Seniors work hard to put the finishing touches on the

But a year of living with a global pandemic and widespread shutdowns changed every-

head of school Chris Bright during his commencement speech in June.

educational path they started many years

thing. Students faced challenges that were

“These 77 truly amazing individuals have—

earlier, while simultaneously making plans for

previously unimaginable. Earlier this year it

through an incredible force of will, determina-

college, career or other adventures. Family,

was unclear whether circumstances would

tion and commitment—completed their high

friends and school administration honor their

allow a “normal” graduation celebration for

school career in the most inconvenient cir-

achievements with graduation ceremonies

the Class of 2021. The sacrifices made by

cumstances and now stand on the precipice

and celebrations. This has been the norm for

the graduating seniors at Vistamar School—

of something entirely new … poised to bring

78

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S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G S E C T I O N

S C H O O L S P OT L I G H T

“I BELIEVE YOU ARE READY FOR WHATEVER IT IS THAT’S COMING NEXT, AND OUR SCHOOL IS A BETTER PLACE BECAUSE OF YOU.” their talents, their hopes and their lives into the future,” Bright said.

To follow COVID-19 safety protocols, the

“I firmly believe that the resilience and courage you’ve needed to push through an unthinkable year has brought you to today,”

June commencement ceremony was held

Gregory told the group. “You are able to draw

outside under a tent constructed for the

upon one another for strength and conviction

occasion, with family and friends looking on.

as you emerge together as the class of 2021.”

After receiving their diplomas, each Vistamar

Founded in 2005 to bring students together

graduate took a celebratory processional on

to learn from each other and become global

the red carpet to self-selected music show-

citizens, Vistamar School prides itself on its

casing a range of individuality.

challenging academics offered in an intimate

Despite experiencing much of their senior

atmosphere that supports caring relationships

year apart, connection was an important

and a diverse community. The resilience and

theme emphasized over the past few months.

accomplishments of this year’s graduates are

“There is an invisible string that connects all

clear as they leave Vistamar and embark on

of us, and you can tug on it when you need

their next steps.

a friend and we will all either come running,

Members of the Class of 2021 were

flying or swimming over to you,” said senior

accepted into more than 130 schools across

Tess MacFarlane during her commencement

the U.S. and abroad. They will attend 58

speech. “After what the class of 2021 has been

colleges, including schools in Scotland

through, I think we have proven we are able to

and Ireland. More than 70% of graduating

stick together and protect our invisible string!”

students will leave California—the highest per-

Vistamar’s Student Services team created several events leading up to graduation to

centage in Vistamar history.

“This is the A+ class: artists, athletes, aware

bring the class together and emphasize that

activists, adventurers and authentic people,”

theme of connection. “Because so much has

says Pamela Davis, Vistamar’s director of

been taken away this past year, we wanted

life planning. “They have largely learned to

to create something memorable, something

ignore the noise and focus on walking a path

special, something that you would be able

that feels true and right to them.”

to hang on to and take with you for the rest

As Bright concluded his speech to the

of your life,” Jason Gregory, assistant head of

graduates on their special day, he left them

school, noted to the graduating seniors.

with this empowering thought: “I believe you

Some of these events included a senior

are ready for whatever it is that’s coming next,

prom on Vistamar’s patio, a senior sunset cel-

and our school is a better place because of

ebration at the beach, a catered senior break-

you. Congratulations!”

fast, a senior retreat and a night at Universal Studios. The evening before graduation, the

VISTAMAR SCHOOL

seniors were celebrated at an event with their

737 HAWAII ST., EL SEGUNDO

parents, guest speakers and a slide show com-

310-643-7377

memorating their four high school years.

VISTAMARSCHOOL.ORG |

79

Oil & Water FOR ARTIST AND OCEAN ENTHUSIAST MARK LEVY, THERE’S NOT A MORE PERFECT PAIRING. Written by Tanya Monaghan | Photographed by Ken Pagliaro

South Bay surfer and artist Mark Levy moved to the

or discussion topics. Everyone would participate, and

beach when he was 10. His dad, Sol, picked up surf-

everyone’s opinion mattered—even the kids’.

ing, and it became a bonding exercise for him and his

sions with their friends around that table, but Mark was

shares Mark. “He’s 91 now and lives a few streets over.

always artistic and always felt the strong urge to create.

He is a huge part of my life.”

“I like the idea of starting out with a blank canvas and

This shared love of surfing also afforded them amaz-

school at Mira Costa, I took a really good class taught by

trips together, and Sol even came along to support his

John Jenkar. He was the best teacher I ever had. All of

boys on crazy paddles on the English Channel, the Irish

the students who took his class became inspired. John

Sea and around Manhattan Island.

pulled me aside at the end of my junior year and told me I should consider going to art school. At the time, the

due to a hip replacement, but the two still spend lots of

$5,000 tuition seemed too steep. As much as I loved art, I

time together. “When he had his surgery, he lost a lot of

wondered if it was actually something I could make a liv-

muscle. It was really hard for him, but he’s still really

ing from. Deep down I didn’t believe I was good enough.”

active and sharp. He’s sort of a fixture around town.

Mark ended up taking the “practical” path and stud-

You have probably seen him walking The Strand with his

ied business at the University of California, Berkeley.

clipboard and crossword puzzle. That’s my dad.”

He didn’t really enjoy it, but he is grateful for the

Mark has called the South Bay home for more than

beach lifestyle it afforded him. He bought his home in

50 years. Growing up here was special. The Levy boys

Manhattan Beach at the age of 26 and has never taken

would often run up the hill from the beach to get home

a day here for granted. He runs long distances on the

just in time for dinner—their hair still wet as they sat

sand and gets in the water daily—whether it’s surfing

at the table. At their house, dinner was a sacred thing.

or swimming the half-mile to the pier … or both. Mark

They could be doing whatever they wanted, but at 6

also loves sunsets and rarely misses one. His lifestyle

p.m. sharp they had better be seated.

has a huge influence on his art.

“Our house was one where people felt really comfort-

Mark started painting 10 years ago when his life

able,” remembers Mark. “There were always extra seats

quieted down. Before then his house was buzzing with

at the dinner table for whoever.”

activity and filled with kids, animals and distractions.

Sol had a lot of interesting artistic friends, and he

Mark needs to get into a zone to paint; he needs time,

often invited them around for a meal. This was the Levy

peace and quiet to focus. He started out experimenting

family’s time of togetherness, when music would be

with pastels and then moved to oil painting.

playing and Sol would often share his words of the day

|

making something from nothing,” he says. “In high

ing bonding experiences. They went on incredible surf

Sol unfortunately had to stop surfing in his late 70s

80

Perhaps some seeds were planted by those discus-

three sons. “Surfing brought me even closer to my dad,”

He carved himself a makeshift studio in a loft space

Xxxxxx Xxxxxx XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX Written & photographed by xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xx xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xxx xxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xx ■

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81

in his house. “I just go to town up there,” he says. “I

say, ‘Write what you know,’” he says. “For me, that’s

turn on some music and start painting. It’s all about

the water because it’s always been such an important

experimenting, but occasionally I do stuff I am happy

part of my life. The ocean has moods. It changes every

with. I love playing with different ideas and perspectives

day, and I love it. Once you leave the land, it is sheer

like looking at the beach from the water.”

wilderness out there. You’re kind of on your own, out of

Mark approaches his art with complete abandon.

your element and in the food chain, and not at the top.

“There’s no formula. I don’t even slap down a palette.

The ocean can be really scary, and I think that humbles

I work with a lot of paint and will even squeeze the

us. So when you get back and you deal with daily stuff,

paint right from the tube and start applying it onto the

it can often seem easier somehow.”

canvas. It is usually pretty unplanned and quite fanciful

Mark started a Facebook page for his art as a way to

because I am always experimenting. It’s hard to know

not only share the accompanying stories more easily but

when to stop.” He recalls the wise words of his former

also to try to glean what resonates most with people.

teacher: “Stop before you are finished” and “Simplicity

So far it’s been very supportive. “People enjoy insight

is the keynote to good design.”

into what a painting is about,” he says. “People crave

Mark likes working with oil because the colors are so intense and rich. The downside of working with oil is the patience required to let it dry, however. Some

that connection—the more personal the better. It really surprised me how much people care.”

It took Mark 10 years of doing art to even feel halfway

pieces take weeks as a result, but he enjoys layering and

comfortable calling himself an artist. “The role of an

scratching the paint and applying gesso on the bottom

artist is to create; it’s not to judge your own work. Don’t

layer to get even more texture and movement.

think about it—just create.” ■

All of Mark’s inspiration comes from the water. “They

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83

Coming Up Rosie LOCAL VOLLEYBALL LEGEND SEAN ROSENTHAL REFLECTS ON MORE THAN TWO DECADES OF COMPELLING COURT ACTION. Written by Quinn Roberts | Photographed by Jeff Berting

June 5, 1997. It’s a date that brings a smile to

quality to his playing style that is still apparent

face every time. That’s because it marked the

every time he steps onto the court. Jake re-

first professional beach volleyball match he ever

members going to his matches before they were

played. He was just 16 years old.

partners and that everyone would talk about his

“I got to miss school on Thursday for the qualifier—not expecting to make it—and when

“He has an understanding of the game that is even hard for him to put into words,” Jake says.

miss Friday. I was just excited to miss one more

“One of the biggest goals when I was with him

day of school,” Sean says. “I walked into the tent

as a partner was to ‘quarterback’ the match,

of professionals the next day and saw everyone

because he had such knowledge about it and had

there. It was pretty amazing. I knew from then

been around it since he was a kid. He found ways

on, this is what I wanted to do.”

to win and understood it at a level that is hard

Nearly 25 years later, Sean is still living that

to teach.”

The understanding of and trust in each other

20 years and is a two-time Olympian, finishing

created a dynamic partnership between the two.

fifth in Beijing in 2008 and fifth in London in

Jake saw the kind of person and player Sean

2012 with partner Jake Gibb. His love of beach

was in the middle of a tournament in Acapulco,

volleyball started on 8th Street in Hermosa Beach

Mexico, with the temperature soaring above 100º.

while attending Redondo Union High School, and it’s still one of the places he practices.

While many professionals on the AVP tour

“I was getting served every ball and was exhausted. We called a time-out, and I was struggling. I could barely hold my head up, I was

choose to hone their skills playing indoor vol-

so exhausted,” Jake says. “All of a sudden I feel

leyball at the college level, Sean took a differ-

something cool on the back of my neck. Ice is

ent path. He never played organized volleyball

being rubbed up and down the back of my neck

in high school or college. Instead he decided to

by Sean. We never even talked about it, but he

work his way up from the bottom and dedicate

knew I needed it. That’s the kind of guy who

every minute to become a successful professional

looks out for his partner.”

beach volleyball player. In 2000 he truly began his AVP career, participating in eight events.

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athleticism.

I made it with my partner Dale Smith, I got to

dream. He’s been on the AVP tour for more than

84

Choosing this career path created a raw, gritty

beach volleyball legend Sean “Rosie” Rosenthal’s

Sean’s never won the AVP Hermosa Beach Open but has won the Manhattan Beach

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85

86

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Open—considered the crown jewel of the sport— three times. Each time there is a local tournament, you can expect to see Sean’s fan club, Rosie’s Raiders. They don’t just cheer for Sean and his partner but also give his team a true advantage by getting under the skin of the other team because they know the game so well.

“The original ones were 8th Street friends from high school. It has become bigger over the years,” Sean says. “When the name [of the fan club] started, you had the likes of Bo Jackson and Marcus Allen playing for the Raiders. When we were watching one of the games, that’s what it came from. Then we made some shirts and went to tournaments, and it’s just grown since then.”

Another nickname that has stuck for Sean is Superman. While he is 6’4’’, which by beach volleyball standards is considered on the smaller side, his leaping ability garnered the nickname back in 2000. Jake even remembers seeing him jump 40 inches and spike the ball straight down.

With those skills having somewhat diminished as the years have ticked by, Sean is fully aware that his career may be coming to an end. The COVID-19 pandemic has hit the sport hard, and the 41-year-old is recovering from shoulder surgery.

“I love the game and want to play as long as my body can hold up. I don’t have anything left to prove except to myself,” Sean says. “Even though I haven’t won a tournament since 2014, I feel like I can still win. Coming back from this, I’d like to try. I’ve proven more to myself over my career than I ever thought possible.” ■

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87

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89

as seen in

In every issue, we share one story across our network that explores topics beyond the limits of the South Bay. These California stories speak to the meaningful impact our state and its residents are making on the global stage. To learn more about Golden State and discover more stories like this, visit goldenstate.is.

all in good time AN INDEPENDENT WATCHMAKER PROVES THAT THE BEST THINGS IN LIFE ARE OFTEN WORTH THE WAIT. Written by Shaun Tolson

Every story has an origin point.

these things. You have to figure that out on your own.

Joshua Shapiro’s journey as a

Invariably, you have to talk to other watchmakers.”

watchmaker has two.

In 2011 Josh’s wife gifted him a quartz Bulova wrist-

paper to explain a process, and it’s only by getting your

was the catalyst to his now-passionate commitment to

hands dirty and figuring those things out that you can

building complicated mechanical timepieces of his own.

understand it.”

Fortunately, Josh had some experience getting his

enthusiasm. It was an advertisement he saw at Feldmar

hands dirty. That’s the second origin point of his watch-

Watch Company when he took his wedding gift to the

making tale.

boutique on Pico Boulevard in Los Angeles to have his

For all intents and purposes, he grew up inside a ma-

watchband resized. The poster that caught Josh’s eye

chine shop. His grandfather was, as Josh describes him,

showcased a skeletonized timepiece—a watch that lacks

“a renaissance man.” He worked with his hands and did a

a customary dial and instead shows many of the intricate

little bit of everything. He was involved in the Manhattan

moving pieces at its core.

Project during the 1940s, working as a welder. Once he

“I was pretty enthralled,” the 36-year-old recalls. “I wondered what it takes to make a watch like that—to skeletonize a watch.”

At the time Josh worked as the principal and taught history at a private Jewish high school. Over the next year he spent much of his free time researching and learn-

retired, the elder Shapiro refined metals and poured his own gold bars.

“I smelted gold when I was 6 years old,” Josh says, recalling time spent with his grandfather. “That was really cool.”

Josh’s father followed in his father’s footsteps, oper-

ing about watchmaking, including the intricate processes

ating a sandblasting shop in the same work space where

and the mechanical wizardry the trade required. In the

the watchmaker’s grandfather had toiled. Reflecting on

spring of 2012, wanting to formally learn the vocation, he

his childhood years, Josh acknowledges that he got to

enrolled in a distance-learning program offered by the

see a lot of beautiful vintage cars up close, as their own-

British Horological Institute.

ers regularly brought them into the shop to have their

Through that program, Josh was introduced to the late George Daniels’ seminal tome—a 462-page compendium

fading paint jobs stripped and prepped for a new color application.

simply titled Watchmaking. Widely regarded as one of the

“It was a fun childhood,” he says. “The shop itself was

greatest watchmakers of the last 250 years, Daniels pub-

a huge junkyard. I spent my childhood climbing over junk

lished his comprehensive guide to watchmaking in 1981,

and old machines, getting filthy and chasing lizards.”

and its contents have inspired a handful of today’s most exceptional and highly revered independent watchmakers.

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have no idea what these things are. They’re just words on

watch on their wedding day. In some ways, that watch

However, it wasn’t the watch itself that sparked his

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Josh recalls his initial experiences reading Daniels’ book. “He’ll reference a mandrel or a faceplate, and you’ll

The appreciation for metals and a desire to work with his hands were both ingrained in Josh during his child-

“It seemed extremely daunting,” Josh remembers.

hood, and reading Daniels’ book while engaging in the

“When you’re just starting out, the amount of tools you

lessons taught through the British Horological Institute

need to make a watch, which tools to buy, which makers

pulled them to the forefront of his consciousness. In

to buy them from and then how to use them … there’s

particular, Watchmaking introduced him to the practice of

a tremendous amount to learn. Daniels doesn’t walk

guilloché—a decorative technique that utilizes engine-

you step-by-step through the very basics of some of

turning machines to mechanically engrave an intricate,

repetitive pattern onto a metallic surface.

The art of guilloché appealed to the aspiring watchmaker. After an early foray spent skeletonizing as many movements as he could find, Josh focused his attention on this specific technique—knowing that if he were to master it, he could craft exceptional dials that would lead to even bigger projects down the road.

After finishing the self-guided aspect of the British Horological Institute’s study program in 2012, Josh spent the next three years waffling about his future plans as they pertained to the trade. As he acknowledges, “There was a limbo stage.”

He collected modern and vintage timepieces (a hobby he still pursues) while also acquiring the necessary classical machinery he would need to build watch components himself. By the beginning of 2015, Josh owned a set of engine-turning machines. However, not knowing then how seriously he wanted to pursue the trade as a profession, he sold them to actor Aldis Hodge—who serves as a board member of the Horological Society of New York and also enjoys a successful side hustle as a watch designer.

The sale of those machines allowed Josh to acquire a Patek Philippe Calatrava—a classic modern wristwatch from the revered Swiss horological house. But only a month later he knew he had made a mistake, in part because he was then certain that he wanted to transition to watchmaking as his long-term profession. After tracking

“I DON’T THINK IT’S POSSIBLE TO OBTAIN PERFECTION OBJECTIVELY, BUT THE PURSUIT OF THAT MAKES US BETTER PEOPLE. I HOPE PEOPLE ARE INSPIRED

BY MY INFINITY WEAVE AND ARE INSPIRED TO PURSUE PERFECTION IN WHATEVER THEY’RE DOING.”

down another pair of engine-turning machines—a British rose engine from the 1920s and a German straight-line

as $40,000. “I can be working on a machine that’s 100

engine from the 1940s—Josh sold the Calatrava, along

years old that’s all hand-operated with no electricity, and

with a 1967 Ford Mustang Fastback, to raise the neces-

then go to another machine made a few years ago that

sary funds to purchase them.

uses lasers and computers,” he says.

“It still hurts me,” he says of the thought of selling

Three years ago, Josh unveiled a selection of introduc-

that revered muscle car, “but it was definitely the right

tory timepieces under his eponymous watch brand J.N.

decision. I bought the other set of machines and never

Shapiro that comprise the Infinity Series. They feature

looked back.”

multilevel, engine-turned dials accented by a signature

Now, from a 2,800-square-foot shop outfitted with

repeating guilloché pattern that Josh invented—a finish-

almost $1 million worth of machinery—both vintage and

ing technique that requires a week to complete and is the

contemporary devices, Josh crafts elegant, complicated

first of its kind. “It’s extremely difficult to do, and I still

wristwatches that start at $26,000 and can cost as much

mess it up quite frequently,” Josh says of the pattern that

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he describes as a basket weave within a basket weave.

He will soon unveil a limited-edition watch that is

“It’s classy and timeless, but it’s also mind-boggling.”

housed in a case made of tantalum—a dense, blueish-

Since unveiling the Infinity Series in the summer of

grey alloy. According to Josh, that release will mark the

2018, Josh has received more than 60 orders—thus far ful-

first time a wristwatch with a tantalum case has been

filling about half of them. Along the way, the burgeoning

manufactured outside Switzerland.

watchmaker unveiled a limited, 10-piece special edition of

watch powered by an in-house movement. (Up until

of meteorite. But that only scratches the surface of the

now, his Infinity Series timepieces have utilized an

advancements and new offerings Josh has planned.

outsourced Swiss movement made exclusively for the

As he’s grown more comfortable in the trade—and as

unveil a tourbillion and has already accepted an order

components at a high level—Josh has ventured beyond

from an existing customer.

house, which he acknowledges is a difficult undertaking.

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brand.) He also acknowledges that he will eventually

he’s proven to himself that he can machine other watch engine-turned dials. He has begun making cases in-

96

Additionally, Josh has plans to introduce a time-only

the wristwatch that featured an engine-turned dial made

Josh anticipates that the aforementioned time-only wristwatches will likely cost twice as much as the Infinity

Series pieces and that the tourbillions will likely carry a

says. “Now I’m all in for watches, and I’m so glad.”

price tag more than double the cost of a time-only watch.

Josh shares the mission statement of his business: the

As for that already-reserved tourbillion prototype, he says

pursuit of perfection. “I don’t think it’s possible to obtain

it will require thousands of hours of work, all of which

perfection objectively, but the pursuit of that makes us

will ultimately guide him in setting a commensurate price

better people. I hope people are inspired by my infinity

for future models.

weave and are inspired to pursue perfection in whatever

“It doesn’t matter what machinery you have; there’s a lot to figure out and a lot you have to do,” he says.

they’re doing.”

As for his own horological pursuits, Josh is still

“There’s a lot of trial and error and making parts one at

constantly learning—through both hands-on trial and

a time.”

error and studious research. On the latter topic, he still

Although the events that ultimately led Josh away from

routinely opens the tome that drew him so passionately

a career in education and into watchmaking occurred

into the craft of watchmaking—and it’s one that he

recently, they aren’t so contemporary that he’s unaware

knows still holds future discoveries. “Even now, I don’t

of their significance. “The machines called me back,” he

understand every part of that book.” ■

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SEEN

Recognizing the Class of 2021 Congratulations to Novas Class of 2021 graduating seniors. Collectively they contributed more than 7,400 hours of service to support patients and staff at Torrance Memorial Medical Center, particularly during the pandemic. Top row: Brandon Mar, Daniel PHOTOGRAPHED BY DEBBIE LEN

Kent, Julia Kahen, Sidney Campbell, Helen Choi, Terrie Jeon, Nicholas Lu, Christopher Wang, Francesca Malit. Bottom row: Michelle Jeong, Kiana Nishimura, Olivia Malit, Sarah Sugiyama, Felicia Huang, Kelsey Lee, Allison Kwon, Lauren Mar, Alexandra Nho, Kaitlin Lee. Not pictured: Russel Chuang and Ethan Quan.

31st Annual Seahorse Classic Golf Tournament Peninsula Committee Children’s Hospital presented the 31st annual Seahorse Classic Golf Tournament on April 19, with proceeds benefiting Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. The day’s activities included a scramble golf format with tee times, gourmet box lunches, exciting hole-in-one opportunities, a skins game,

Jeff MacLean, Steve Lopes, Tom Light, Dave Klein

raffle prizes, an online auction and post-round alfresco cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.

Noelle Giuliano and Joe Giacomin

Vall Light, Kelly Walsh, Jacquie Leimbach, Wendy Mouton and Sue Wilkinson with premiere sponsor Joe Giacomin of Martin Chevrolet.

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Jerry Solder, Jim Scriba, Dan Scriba, Roy Omoto

Janice Latimer and Catherine Lucas

PHOTOGRAPHED BY MAUREEN HAZARD

Terry Greene (CHLA), Noelle Giuliano, Ed Wirtz, Buck Page (CHLA)

SEEN

Manhattan Wine Auction The Manhattan Beach Education Foundation (MBEF) livestreamed the Manhattan Wine Auction into private homes throughout the South Bay. While the virtual event was not able to uphold all of the typical traditions of the annual event, the focus on great food, great wine and a great cause remained at the forefront. For 27 years, the event has provided an opportunity for the community to come together to raise critical funding for Manhattan Beach public schools.

Despite not gathering in person for a second consecutive year, the event was a tremendous success—raising nearly $800,000 to support local schools.

Patel family hosts, culinary and wine experience

Greg Quiroga, auctioneer, and Hilary Mahan, MBEF executive director

Congressman Ted Lieu

Chevron guests at wine auction production

Melissa and Rod Spiegel table: early raffle winners

Scott Rosenthal, president of the board of directors of MBEF

Guests at host Andrea Hutter’s home for culinary and wine experience

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“We love pushing the envelope to create one-of-a-kind homes for our clients to enjoy. We never build the same house twice. Every project is unique to the client and their needs.

Our clients always keep us on our toes! Making each home as custom as we can sets us far apart from the rest.”

– RJ SMITH, PRINCIPAL, RJ SMITH CONSTRUCTION

MEN IN BUSINESS The secret to success in any business is good leadership. Leaders have the drive and resourcefulness to get the job done and get it done well. And that’s the story of each of the men on the following pages.

These South Bay leaders in business are at the top of their game because they are smart, ambitious and committed.

Their hard work and entrepreneurial spirit have helped them build successful organizations despite challenges along the way. These are our neighbors, colleagues and friends. They inspire their teams, love their friends and families, and give back to their communities. Read on to learn more about the South Bay’s Men in Business …

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RJ SMITH RJ SMITH CONSTRUCTION

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BILL MEALER, MD, & BRAD THOMAS, MD BEACH CITIES ORTHOPEDICS & SPORTS MEDICINE

106

MICHAEL GARVEY & RAY CHODOROWSKI THE DUMBELL MAN FITNESS EQUIPMENT

108

ALI SARMAST PLATINUM AUTOHAUS

110

DANIEL STEPHENSON, MD COASTAL ORTHO ADVANCED ORTHOPEDICS

112

MARSHALL VARON MORGAN’S JEWELERS PALOS VERDES, INC.

113

TADASHI “TAD” KONDO THE KONDO GROUP

114

BRET JOHNSON

WRITTEN BY LAURA L. WATTS PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE O’DONNELL

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

MEN IN BUSINESS

RJ SMITH Principal, RJ Smith Construction

R

J Smith grew up in a family that worked in the construction industry, so he has worked as a builder and designer his entire life. He graduated from Redondo Union High School and the University of California, Santa Barbara. In 2003 he started RJ Smith Construction, a custom and spec builder servicing Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach.

WHAT ARE SOME WAYS YOU AND YOUR TEAM HELP CLIENTS FEEL THEY ARE IN GOOD HANDS? “We have the best team in town, and it starts with our communication with our clients. We review the design/build, budget and schedule on a monthly—sometimes weekly—basis.

When it comes to building a home, there can never be enough communication.”

WHEN DID YOU HAVE YOUR LIGHT BULB MOMENT? “I was working for a great developer in Manhattan Beach and decided to leave a secure position and take a leap into a development project and two custom homes.

I have never looked back. Since then RJ Smith Construction was born, and it has been one of the best decisions of my career.”

WHAT SERVICES DO YOUR CLIENTS APPRECIATE MOST? “I think the thing our clients appreciate most about us is our attention to the design and detail. We love working hand-in-hand with our architects and designers. We want to let their ideas sing and turn out just the way they envisioned them. We are always proud of our finished product when we hear positive feedback from the client and design team.”

WHAT FULFILLS YOU MOST ABOUT YOUR CAREER? “The amount of happiness that we get to see firsthand in our clients after completing a home. Nothing beats knowing that this family is about to start a brand-new chapter in a home my team and I built.”

WHAT MAKES RJ SMITH CONSTRUCTION DIFFERENT FROM THE REST? “RJ Smith Construction is different because when you become an RJ Smith client, you become part of the family. We take pride in our homes and selecting the right clients and projects. We do an amazing job of listening to the needs of our clients. With the knowledge we have from our spec homes and custom homes, no one can compare. Our brand motto is ‘Setting The Bar.’ We always walk into every project reminding ourselves that our team sets the standard.”

IS YOUR WORK BACK TO A “NEW NORMAL” YET? “Our business has not stopped! We have been very fortunate to work around and through the pandemic. It has opened our eyes to what we can do and what our clients are now looking for. Our normal is focusing on materials that last and the maintenance of our homes, while keeping the design at the front of our attention.”

TELL US SOMETHING UNIQUE ABOUT YOUR WORK THAT OTHERS MAY NOT KNOW. “Once we finish a house, we have a home maintenance division within our company that works with the homeowner to maintain the longevity of the home. We stay on throughout the years to keep our homes looking in top shape. We take pride in building our homes, and we keep them looking perfect for years to come.”

TELL US ABOUT YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA PRESENCE. “Our social media presence is amazing. Our team does a great job of being ahead of the curve when it comes to our vision. From Instagram, Facebook and YouTube, we have you covered. I love that we are pushing the idea to show how tough it is to turn out a great product for everyone to appreciate. Videos are the wave of the future in our opinion—you can’t cheat a video. They show every detail.”

HOW DO YOU COPE WITH HIGHLY STRESSFUL SITUATIONS IN YOUR WORK? “We have a process in place so we can limit stress. Our clients come to us early—a lot of times before they purchase the land—and we explain our process and make sure it is in alinement with theirs. This takes most of the stress out of building. Keeping everyone on the same page makes for an easy process.”

HOW DO YOU PURSUE HAPPINESS? “Happiness for me is creating our clients’ dreams with our wonder design team. On the last home we finished, the designer and owner had already worked on a project together and knew each other well. The RJ Smith Construction team was added, and I am happy to say it was a perfect fit. It was great for us as this project was a new design and style for the area, and it all came together perfectly in the end.”

TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY. “My family is my world. I have huge local extended family, which lives as close as across the street from us. Currently our boys’ sports are taking up most of our time. My wife, Robin, and I enjoy the beach lifestyle and local dining with our friends and family.”

1116 8TH ST., MANHATTAN BEACH | 424-275-9505 | RJSMITHCONSTRUCTION.COM

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L to R: Geoff Chait, project manager; Hannah Dominick, project manager/maintenance; Trinh Lam, project manager; Richard Smith, quality control; Marilyn Velez, office administration; Luis Topete, on-site super; Michael Capobianco, senior project manager; Michael Boch, maintenance; RJ Smith, principal Not pictured: Stacey Hidalgo, social media

MEN IN BUSINESS

BILL MEALER, MD, & BRAD THOMAS, MD Owners, Beach Cities Orthopedics & Sports Medicine

B

each Cities Orthopedics & Sports Medicine is a full-service sports medicine and wellness clinic offering integrative primary care, pediatric orthopedics, chiropractic, 3D MRI imaging, stem cell therapy/PRP, acupuncture, massage, cold laser therapy, orthopedic urgent care and an on-site surgical center. Dr. Brad Thomas and Dr. Bill Mealer started Beach Cities Orthopedics in 2008 and have both been working in orthopedics for more than 20 years.

HOW HAS YOUR PRACTICE CHANGED IN THE LAST 10 YEARS? “Medicine has changed drastically in the last 10 years. Most physician groups are now owned by large hospital systems, which forces patients into a single care pathway, much like an HMO. These hospital systems are also much more costly than outpatient care.

Beach Cities Orthopedics (BCO) has been committed to remaining sovereign in an effort to preserve independent thinking and customized patient care. We never want our patients to feel like they are part of an impersonal system. Many challenges have arisen on this path, and it has become surprisingly difficult. Hospital systems refer to hospital doctors, whereas our referral system is word-of-mouth and based on our excellent outcomes and patient experience.

BCO is one of the few independent orthopedic groups in Southern California, and we hope to maintain that amidst an everincreasing push for a more socialized health care system.”

TELL US A FEW OF YOUR BEST SECRETS TO SUCCESS. “There is no substitute for hard work. Learn and improve every day. Each day and every patient is different in orthopedics, and we never take that for granted. Hard work for us means treating each day like it’s the most important day. Continued learning and staying ahead of our peers with techniques and treatment options is part of the BCO culture.

We also realize that work ethic and integrity are hard to come by. The future of medicine must strive to uphold these unique qualities in order to achieve both physician and patient success.”

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST DIFFICULTIES YOU ENCOUNTER IN YOUR BUSINESS? “Insurance companies have become increasingly difficult to deal with. Their payments are slow and often inaccurate, their authorization processes are long and they don’t cover many treatments that dramatically improve outcomes. BCO has tried to help our patients by offering low-cost, cash-based treatments.

Occasionally we provide full treatment plans including surgery for less than a patient’s deductible. For some patients, paying cash is less expensive than using insurance—and a much faster way to achieve results.”

WHAT ARE SOME WAYS YOU AND YOUR TEAM HELP PATIENTS FEEL THEY ARE IN GOOD HANDS? “Many people who come in are scared, especially if it’s a pediatric injury. They don’t know what is wrong, and they are afraid they are going to have a really bad problem. Giving our patients and families clarity quickly is very important. At BCO we offer diagnostic ultrasound and same-day MRI when necessary to quickly diagnose a problem and bring relief to anxious families. We also give our patients a variety of treatment options, which further helps alleviate their fear.

BCO truly looks at each patient holistically, helping individuals solve their body’s problems as a whole—not just correcting a single piece. We also combine Eastern and Western treatment modalities to better meet our clients’ needs. We can confidently treat people through several avenues including chiropractic care, acupuncture, EMSculpt, physical therapy, stem cell therapy, PRP and sometimes surgically. With such a wide range of treatment options available under one roof, we can save our patients time and streamline their experience.”

HOW DO YOU GIVE BACK TO YOUR COMMUNITY? “We have fostered strong relationships with local schools, providing care to young athletes. We spend many Friday and Saturday nights volunteering our time on the football field and at other athletic events. As a service to these kids, we routinely evaluate injuries— regardless of ability to pay—to help quickly diagnose and initiate a treatment plan.

Another exciting and fulfilling program BCO offers is providing mentorship opportunities to individuals seeking careers in orthopedics and related fields. Several of our young athletes show an interest in medicine, and we offer shadowing experiences in the office and surgery. We have many ‘BCO graduates’ who have gone on to med school, chiropractic, PT and PA careers. There is nothing better than inspiring young adults to pursue a career in medicine.”

WHAT MAKES BCO SPECIAL? “We have built our practice on trying to make our business special and unique. We set out over 12 years ago to drastically change the patient experience in orthopedics. We didn’t like the concept of a drab, stale doctor’s office with grumpy front desk staff sitting behind a glass window. Our goal is to welcome people to a space that is inviting, beautiful, vibrant and full of energy.

People often come to our office in a lot of pain and leave with hope and energy for the future. We give hope where there is hopelessness, relief to those in pain and a smile or a hug to nearly every patient we see.”

400 S. SEPULVEDA BLVD., SUITE 200, MANHATTAN BEACH | 310-546-3461 | BEACHCITIESORTHO.COM

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MEN IN BUSINESS

MICHAEL GARVEY & RAY CHODOROWSKI President & Vice President, The Dumbell Man Fitness Equipment

T

he Dumbell Man Fitness Equipment (TDM) specializes in the creation of commercial fitness centers in a variety of market segments. Serving luxury hospitality, multifamily and corporate locations, TDM offers design, supply, installation, after-sale service and preventive maintenance. They recently began offering services to select retail clients as well.

Owner Michael Garvey started the company in his Hermosa Beach apartment in 1990. He moved to the South Bay after attending Boston University and worked as a high school coach, fitness trainer, health club manager and gym owner before starting TDM. Michael and vice president Ray Chodorowski both have more than 30 years of experience in exercise equipment sales.

Ray’s retail sales experience helped TDM pivot to business-to-consumer (B2C) services during the past year. Requests for home gyms helped keep the team busy and revenue sustained throughout the pandemic and shutdown.

WHAT FULFILLS YOUR TEAM MOST ABOUT THIS INDUSTRY? “Providing quality commercial exercise equipment and creating better health and wellness opportunities is always rewarding. Having fun and watching the business grow is very satisfying. People of SoCal are very passionate about exercise.”

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST MISCONCEPTION ABOUT YOUR LINE OF WORK? “A common misconception is that we only sell dumbbells, but we have been very successful as a turnkey solution provider. However, The Dumbell Man is a name no one could forget!

Dumbbells are ubiquitous and spelled with two b’s. There is only one Dumbell Man.” TELL US ABOUT YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA PRESENCE. “TDM is present on most social media outlets and always looking to expand.”

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO ACHIEVE PROFESSIONALLY IN 2021?

“The goal in 2021 is to reconnect with all our commercial clients and expand the custom home gym niche we created here in the South Bay. We are now completing commercial projects for several clients (Chess Fitness, El Camino College, LA Galaxy, Bellagio Resort) and expanding our B2C portfolio with local developers and homeowners.”

IS YOUR BUSINESS BACK TO A “NEW NORMAL” YET? “Demand is back to normal, but the challenge continues with business operations and keeping employees and customers safe. The past year has been a test, but thanks to our team we have created solutions and new procedures that will benefit our staff and clients alike moving forward.”

WHAT ARE SOME WAYS YOU AND YOUR TEAM HELP CLIENTS FEEL THEY ARE IN GOOD HANDS? “We are driven to create a five-star customer service experience. We are focused on using 30 years’ experience while keeping up-todate on trends and breakthrough products.

Being honest with clients ensures they make educated equipment selections. Safety and a great exercise experience are always the top priority.”

IN WHAT WAYS DOES YOUR WORK MAKE OUR COMMUNITY A BETTER PLACE TO LIVE? “The fitness amenity or gym space is a top priority for the markets we serve. Most clients look to our experience to create first-class exercise environments. People are always excited to see the new fitness center, and our staff is motivated by the positive feedback. It’s great for morale for Team Dumbell Man.” WHAT ARE YOUR BEST SECRETS TO SUCCESS? “Pursue your passion, keep your promises and be nice to people.”

WHAT SERVICES DO YOUR CLIENTS APPRECIATE MOST? “Our clients appreciate our turnkey approach.

From the start we collaborate with clients, architects and designers. We supply, install and provide service. We make it easy and keep it simple.”

HOW DO YOU COPE WITH HIGHLY STRESSFUL SITUATIONS IN YOUR WORK? “We have a small team with an enormous amount of experience. As we add staff, we make it clear: We work as a team, get the job done and have fun. We also have access to 10,000 square feet of warehouse space filled with stress-relieving exercise equipment.

Great job perk!”

WHOM DO YOU SEEK OUT FOR ADVICE? “After 35 years in the South Bay, I have been fortunate to meet many area business owners, friends and mentors. I am always seeking advice. I never learned anything while talking.”

WHAT ARE THE KEY TRAITS OF A SUCCESSFUL ENTREPRENEUR? “Tireless dedication, ability to embrace failure and using fear as a motivator.”

IN WHAT WAYS DOES THE DUMBELL MAN TEAM PURSUE HAPPINESS? “Happiness is found in appreciating how fortunate we have been. We are grateful every day. We have a great staff, and we have created some great business relationships over 30 years. We are happy because we have exceeded all expectations, and we are still growing and having fun. It has been a great journey.”

HOW DO YOU GIVE BACK AND SUPPORT THOSE IN NEED? “We are proud of the support we have provided to charities and nonprofits in the communities we serve. It is one of my favorite parts of being a small business owner—doing well by doing good.”

655 HAWAII AVE., TORRANCE | 310 381-2900 | DUMBELLMAN.COM

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MEN IN BUSINESS

ALI SARMAST Owner/CEO, Platinum Autohaus

A

li Sarmast was educated in Ankara, Turkey, and moved to London, England, to pursue a business degree before relocating to the United States.

His first job in the automotive industry was with a friend’s rental car company near LAX in 1993. Ali realized that the company’s friendly customer service contributed to its worldwide growth and success. Drawing on his own customer service experience, he established Platinum Autohaus—a dealership specializing in preowned luxury vehicles and exotic cars— in Redondo Beach in 1997.

TELL US WHAT YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS. “I take pride in selecting each luxury vehicle on my lot. I have a passion for matching a potential client with the dream car they are searching for. They are all unique. I think the classic cars we feature are really cool because I’m buying a piece of history. My wife calls me the ‘passionate collector’!

The smile on a client’s face when they drive off the lot in their new vehicle makes me happy—whether it be an exotic sports car or a simple SUV. We can provide financing for new cars, or we can assist in used-car financing.

Our clients appreciate that extra personal touch we give at Platinum Autohaus.”

WHAT IS YOUR BEST SECRET TO SUCCESS? “Getting up every day like it’s a new day. I also credit much of the dealership’s success to my great team! They make each client feel special and attend to their needs—whether the client bought a new car or they are just browsing. We try to establish a friendship with each client—a South Bay friendship! We want our clients and friends to feel they can stop by anytime and browse. We are so lucky to have the beautiful ocean breeze and great weather here in Redondo Beach. It’s an asset to our dealership.”

HOW DO YOU HELP CLIENTS FEEL THEY ARE IN GOOD HANDS? “Being in this business for more than 20 years, when clients are looking for a special car, I am able to match them with their dream vehicle.

If desired, I find a cost-saving plan with a special pre-owned to suit their budget. I take the extra time to search and shop nationwide until I find what they are looking for. If there is a deadline—perhaps an anniversary or birthday surprise—I'm happy to work with the client, from finding the car to the special delivery process. I enjoy this, and I think my customer service skills play a big part in the fact that I have returning customers and celebrity clientele."

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT LIVING IN THE SOUTH BAY? “I work out in the morning at Equinox. It’s a friendly, cozy environment, and exercise starts my day right. The South Bay has lots of beautiful people out early walking along the beach, biking, jogging. Just look around—it’s full of good energy here. The beach motivates me, and I’m grateful that on my way to work I get to enjoy the view.

I also love all of the beautiful restaurants in the South Bay. Whether it be Japanese or Italian, I appreciate all cultures of food. The best part is having dinner where you can enjoy the beautiful sunset! My favorite restaurant is in Manhattan Beach—my wife and I love The Strand House. We have dinner overlooking the Manhattan Beach Pier, with an ocean-view sunset and a lovely glass of rosé.

I think the South Bay is fast becoming California’s favorite new cultural place to get away on the weekends. I have so many outof-town clients now who pop back here on the weekends just for the International cuisine influences … and then of course they come to see my cars.”

HOW DO YOU PURSUE HAPPINESS? “I love to cook and discover new ways to inspire my taste for good food. I love to go to a market and search for fresh herbs to add.

Fresh herbs make cooking fun and greattasting. I love it when I make a delicious dish and my family sits down and enjoys. It's pure happiness when everyone is gathered around the table with a smile after the first bite. My specialty dish so far is my handpressed Red Meat Kebob, which is panfried

and then steamed, served with my Persian Burnt Rice with a touch of saffron. It's an old family recipe."

TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY. “My wife and I share a passion for beautiful exotic cars. Raising two children and being married has inspired me to work harder and provide the best I can for my family.

My son recently graduated from college and now helps me at Platinum Autohaus.

He has lots of innovative ideas and is great with the power of design—an asset for the Platinum Autohaus team because good designs are changing the world.

My daughter is an equestrian show jumper.

We go to the barn and spend time with her three horses on the weekends. I enjoy being with her there; it is a great stress-reliever being around the horses and watching her train. She is passionate about it.

My wife and I also have three dogs. Tyson is a Great Dane, Peter is a Chihuahua and Akira is a Wooly Husky. Our favorite family together time is having dinner when I arrive home from work. We all cook in our family, including the kids! From guacamole to steak, fried rice to crepes—you name it, we love to make it!

My mother and two sisters live in Virginia. I have an older brother, and he played a big role in the construction of Platinum Autohaus. Even though I'm taller than him, I look up to him.”

WHAT'S THE MOST EXHILARATING EXPERIENCE YOU'VE HAD WITH A CAR? “When the world-class Longines Masters horse jumping show was last in Long Beach, we were invited to attend. My wife surprised me with something she set up beforehand with the Lamborghini headquarters director and the mayor of Long Beach. When we attended the pre-event party, they told us that Longines had set up a special car racing course around the horse show. The mayor closed all of the main roads around the show, and I got to drive a Lamborghini like I was in Italy: 100+ mph. This was the most exhilarating experience I have had with any exotic car in the United States, and we did this right here in the South Bay!"

610 N. PACIFIC COAST HWY., REDONDO BEACH | PLATINUMAUTOHAUS.COM | 310-318-3122

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Platinum Autohaus exclusives: Ferrari 430 Scuderia and McLaren 570S special edition “Racing Through the Ages”

MEN IN BUSINESS

DANIEL STEPHENSON, MD Partner, Coastal Ortho Advanced Orthopedics

C

oastal Ortho Advanced Orthopedics is a medical partnership of orthopedic surgeons providing care to people with musculoskeletal ailments and injuries. The team includes physicians, physician assistants, physical therapists, certified hand therapists, pool therapists, MRI staff and support staff. The practice began in 1971, and Dr. Daniel Stephenson joined the group in 2015. He has practiced medicine in the South Bay since 2010 and for 17 years altogether.

Dr. Stephenson grew up in the South Bay and graduated from Mira Costa High School. He earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from Bucknell University in Pennsylvania. After studying abroad for a semester in New Zealand, he attended medical school at the Keck School of Medicine of USC. He completed the LA County + USC Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program and spent an additional year training in orthopedic sports medicine at the University of Kentucky. Dr. Stephenson continues to work as a recurrent ocean lifeguard for the Los Angeles County Fire Department, which he began doing in 1994.

WHAT FULFILLS YOU MOST ABOUT YOUR CAREER IN MEDICINE? “The most fulfilling part of my work is helping people get better. Whether it is rehabilitating a sprained ankle, getting an athlete through recovery and rehab after an ACL tear, or helping an elderly person with a broken hip and seeing them get back to a better quality of life, it is an amazing journey.”

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO ACHIEVE PROFESSIONALLY IN 2021?

“My partners and I aim to continue to grow our practice to meet the demands of an active Southern California population. I value high-quality care founded upon researchbased principles. There is a balance in providing the most up-to-date treatments with the body of evidence that science has to offer.”

IS YOUR PRACTICE BACK TO A “NEW NORMAL” YET? “The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic caused a unique set of problems. It forced us to slow down and delay procedures for approximately two months during the winter surge. Now with people getting vaccinated and returning to most activities, we have a huge increase in patient visits. I am seeing patients with problems that they put off because of fear of getting sick from COVID-19. Along with this are the normal ailments that come with a return to sports, injuries on the playground and overuse injuries, as people have gone from 0 to 100 in their activity level.”

WHAT ARE SOME WAYS YOU AND YOUR TEAM HELP PATIENTS FEEL THEY ARE IN GOOD HANDS? “I am surrounded with a great support staff.

Patients are treated with best-in-class service, and they can be confident that their journey to recovery will be as smooth as possible.”

HOW DOES YOUR WORK MAKE OUR COMMUNITY A BETTER PLACE TO LIVE? “Being able to provide a service to our community is what drove me to medicine.

Learning from one of our founding members, John Stratton, MD, considerably influenced me in my career choice and how to deliver quality medical care and compassion. I also give back by overseeing high school sports at Mira Costa and Bishop Montgomery. I spend most of my Friday nights during fall season at football games for both schools and try to attend games of other campus sports. It is a labor of love to be on the sidelines and help athletes during competition.”

HOW DO YOU COPE WITH HIGHLY STRESSFUL SITUATIONS IN YOUR WORK? “As a surgeon, I have people’s lives in my hands regularly. That is something a lot of people don’t think about. There is certainly a baseline level of stress. The physicians at Coastal Ortho are all hardworking and supportive of each other. When any of us have something challenging going on, it’s nice that we have each other to lean on.”

HOW DO YOU PURSUE HAPPINESS? “I find a lot of joy in the work I do, but there are outside interests that I love. I spend time with my wife and kids as much as possible and enjoy being outdoors. Surfing is my favorite way to relax, but I also spend time snowboarding, camping and hiking. I have always been an active person, played four sports in high school, and was an NCAA Division I water polo player and swimmer.

My favorite recent endeavor was to summit Mount Whitney with my wife. I stay active with the International Surf Festival, and apart from last year I completed the Dwight Crum Pier-to-Pier 2-mile swim every year since I turned 40.”

TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY. “My wife and I have been together for 20 years and have two children who keep us busy with various activities. My daughter is an avid ice hockey player and loves surfing and art. My son is interested in anything that keeps him moving, but currently his favorite sport is lacrosse. Our goal is to take our kids to all 50 states by the time they hit college; we are at 20 so far, with eight or nine years left on the clock!”

WHAT SERVICES DO YOUR PATIENTS APPRECIATE MOST? “My patients appreciate the attention I give them for their ailment. Currently there are a lot of options available, and since every person’s injury and circumstance is different, the treatment needs to be individualized.”

5215 TORRANCE BLVD., SUITE 210, TORRANCE | 2200 E. MAPLE AVE., EL SEGUNDO | 310-316-6190 | COASTALORTHOCA.COM

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MEN IN BUSINESS

L to R: Marshall Varon, owner; Elie Massoud, general manager; Miroslav Dvorak, certified Rolex watchmaker; Danny Huang, manufacturing jeweler

MARSHALL VARON Owner, Morgan’s Jewelers Palos Verdes, Inc.

M

organ’s Jewelers Palos Verdes is a full-service jewelry business offering a variety of gemstones and custom designs, as well as watch and jewelry repair. Morgan’s Jewelers opened for business 75 years ago and has been family-owned and operated ever since—now with the third generation of family members.

Owner Marshall Varon joined the business 57 years ago. He is a Graduate Gemologist with the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and a Certified Gemologist Appraiser with the American Gem Society (AGS).

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE READERS TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS? “Our credentials speak for a level of honesty, integrity and quality. We have an accredited gemological laboratory approved by the AGS and GIA. Being certified appraisers, we hunt the globe for the best quality at the most competitive prices. Feel free to include us in your quest to acquire a fine gemstone or fine piece of jewelry. Our selection will impress you.”

WHY DO YOUR CLIENTS TRUST YOUR EXPERTISE IN YOUR INDUSTRY? “My affiliations for gemstones are worldwide.

Being a Certified Gemologist Appraiser, I use my knowledge and ethics to offer clients the best recommendations for their investments.”

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO ACHIEVE PROFESSIONALLY IN 2021?

“Getting reunited with my customers, friends and business associates. And reigniting the business through extensive marketing in the fourth quarter.”

WHAT ARE SOME WAYS YOU AND YOUR TEAM HELP CLIENTS FEEL THEY ARE IN GOOD HANDS? “Customers receive the finest service and current education on gems and pricing. We offer an amazing selection of outstanding jewelry lines and the finest watches. There’s no pressure to buy, and we focus on fine quality at reasonable pricing.”

WHAT FULFILLS YOU MOST ABOUT YOUR WORK AT MORGAN'S JEWELERS? “Personal connectivity. Creating unique, oneof-a-kind jewelry for customers’ occasions and celebrations. Gemological studies.”

WHAT ELSE DO YOUR CLIENTS APPRECIATE ABOUT MORGAN’S JEWELERS? “All work is done in-house and inspected by professionals for best results.”

IS YOUR WORK BACK TO A “NEW NORMAL”?

“Almost. Many vendors have manufacturing issues, and there are many shortages.”

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU HELP MAKE OUR COMMUNITY AND OUR WORLD A BETTER PLACE TO LIVE? “I’m very caring and sensitive and give to many charities and organizations that promote international and local goodwill.”

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU HAVE EVER RECEIVED? “Be patient and don’t get upset over small things.”

50C PENINSULA CENTER, ROLLING HILLS ESTATES | 310-541-2052 | MORGANSJEWELERSPV.COM

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MEN IN BUSINESS

TADASHI “TAD” KONDO Owner, The Kondo Group

T

he Kondo Group is a full-service real estate sales team serving residential and commercial clients. The group works under the umbrella of Compass, a real estate technology company operating in more than 50 markets in the United States. Palos Verdes native and Realtor® Tad Kondo started The Kondo Group in 2015 and has worked in the real estate industry for 17 years.

WHAT FULFILLS YOU MOST ABOUT YOUR CAREER? “Buying or selling a home is not only one of the biggest transactions of a client’s lifetime, but it is also very stressful. Helping clients navigate the complexities of real estate transactions is very rewarding. Whether they are relocating to another part of the country or upgrading to a bigger house, every client has a different need and every situation is unique. We love being part of that journey.”

WHAT ARE SOME WAYS YOU AND YOUR TEAM HELP CLIENTS FEEL THEY ARE IN GOOD HANDS? “Communication, follow-through and setting expectations are vital to any client-agent relationship. If our clients have questions, it’s our job to respond right away. And if we say we are going to do something, we do it. This builds trust so that our clients can rely on us. We educate clients about the process and potential issues that may arise so we can minimize surprises, and we also let them know what they can expect from us.”

WHY DID YOU RECENTLY MOVE TO COMPASS? “Compass gives us the ability to better serve our clients. We can now provide financial assistance for sellers who need to prepare their homes for sale with costly repairs or upgrades, as well as provide bridge loans for clients who need up-front cash to purchase their dream home before their current home is sold. The technology and resources here at Compass far surpass any other brokerage we have been a part of; we are excited to utilize these advantages for our clients.”

TELL US ABOUT YOUR TEAM. “My team consists of a diverse, multilingual group of agents with different upbringings and experiences in the United States. This brings a unique perspective to my team and what we can offer our clients. We have 12 sets of eyes, hands and minds to better improve our business, which in turn allows us to better help families achieve their real estate goals. We are always collaborating with each other to improve our services.”

PALOS VERDES | 310-567-8790 | THEKONDOGROUP.COM | DRE #01438455 SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY JL CEDERBLOM

MEN IN BUSINESS

BRET JOHNSON

E

ntrepreneur and beverage expert Bret Johnson spends his days wearing a variety of hats, including recently authoring his first book, Heavenland.

He is the president of the CUBAMERA project, designed to execute cultural exchanges with American bands/artists and the people of Cuba. As president of B-Fusion Consulting he connects brands, bands, products and people with event-based sponsorships and activations. He also works as a director of marketing and sales at BeyondBrands.

WHAT FULFILLS YOU MOST ABOUT YOUR CAREER? “My business projects support my lifestyle.

I’ve never wanted to have a job that I needed a vacation from. I'm OK with a daily spice of surprises with mucho flexibility. That openness allows for inspiration, which comes to me at many times and in many ways.

Staying creative and free from office work keeps me alive.”

WHAT WERE SOME RECENT HIGHLIGHTS IN YOUR LIFE? “Self-publishing my novel on Amazon was a huge step into another chapter of my life. It has fulfilled my writing void and is allowing me to pursue ways to adapt a book to TV and film. I call the book true fiction. The story is about a dude dying, going to heaven and meeting up with a dog at a dive bar with Jimi Hendrix and Bob Marley on stage. The characters discuss religion, regrets, racism and relationships with flashbacks about being on Earth. It’s all about finding inspiration to live a great life by acknowledging that death will happen and taking care of your regrets now, while you can!

The other highlight gives me goosebumps: the CUBAMERA project. Finally getting musicians to Havana to perform was huge for me. Serious efforts started in 2010. We were authorized by both governments twice by 2014 but couldn’t raise the capital. We went in 2015 on a shoestring budget with Dave

Kim, Gary Dourdan and Darren Lee. We went again in 2019 on my credit card budget and had Ozomatli with original members DJ Cut Chemist and Chali 2na (both from Jurassic 5) plus Printz Board (Black Eyed Peas) and Angelo Moore (Fishbone). For all of these shows, we invited Cuban musicians on stage and in the studio. Getting musicians together at that level made my heart sing.”

HOW DO YOU COPE WITH HIGHLY STRESSFUL SITUATIONS? “I need exercise to release any work stress and refresh. I do my best to keep my seasoned athletic body capable of playing volleyball, taking beach runs, stretching/yoga, skiing and a little golf. Getting in the water washes off the day and keeps me globally connected. In the event and beverage spaces, being calm in chaos is a superpower of mine. There always will be fires popping up randomly, so I expect ‘em and deal.

Laughter helps!”

HEAVENLANDBOOK.COM | CUBAMERA.ORG | BEYONDBRANDS.ORG LINKEDIN.COM/IN/BRET-JOHNSON | INSTAGRAM.COM/BRETJET

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HOME FILMS

HOME FILMS

C R E AT I N G V I D E O F O R YO U R L I S T I N G S I S O N LY E X P E N S I V E I F N O O N E I S W AT C H I N G .

Home Films is the only fully integrated real estate video production and digital d i s t r i b u t i o n p a c ka g e . O u r t a l e n t e d f i l m m a k i n g t e a m a r t i s t i c a l l y t e l l s t h e s t o r y o f w h a t m a ke s y o u r l i s t i n g u n i q u e . A n d o u r t a rg e t e d d i g i t a l d i s t r i b u t i o n e n s u re s t h a t t h e r i g h t p o t e n t i a l b u y e r s a re s e e i n g y o u r p ro p e r t y i n t h e m o s t b e a u t i f u l l i g h t.

BEST IN CLASS FILMMAKERS

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Fo r m o re i n f o r m a t i o n : M a rc i e G u t i e r re z a t m a rc i e @ g o l d e n s t a t e . i s .

DRE#00967574

Manhattan Beach Located in a prime, sand section neighborhood on a corner lot, this stunning 4300 square foot home has 4 bedrooms plus an office/5th bedroom, large, open living spaces and beautiful views and vistas. Quality workmanship combined with designer amenities throughout are often hard to find in today’s market. $5,999,000

R E A L E S TAT E

Your Beach House For Every Season Come home to your very own seaside, ocean-view casita at Terranea this summer, and every season in between. The only residence of its kind currently on the market, Casita 21-301 features three spacious bedrooms among a 2,040-square-foot floor plan, newly refreshed in 2021, all framed by lush landscape and ocean vistas. Plus, with VIP status as an owner, you will enjoy privileged access to a personal Owners Concierge, preferred pricing on golf, dining and Spa services, around-theclock upkeep and so much more. It’s as carefree as a vacation home should be. Reserve a private tour today and be among the lucky few to call Terranea your all-season coastal getaway.

Brought to you by Terranea Real Estate CA DRE #01774333 310-265-2888

220 8TH STREET MANHATTAN BEACH 4 BEDS | 3.5 BATHS | 4195 SF | 2709 SF LOT OFFERED AT: $10,000,000

NEW CONSTRUCTION

620 12TH STREET MANHATTAN BEACH 5 BEDS | 5 BATHS | 4600 SF | 3000 SF LOT OFFERED AT: $6,000,000

3405 BAYVIEW DRIVE MANHATTAN BEACH

NEW CONSTRUCTION

3 BEDS | 5 BATHS | 3250 SF OFFERED AT: $6,799,000

310-374-1800 caskeyandcaskey.com LIC#01198999

528 The Strand

NEW LISTING

Hermosa Beach, CA

Great triplex on The Strand, Owner user or investment property | 2 x 1 BD, 1 BA units and 1 x 2 BD, 1 BA units | 2,300 SF living space – $6,499,000

238 First Street

NEW PRICE

Hermosa Beach, CA

Panoramic ocean views, 2 blocks from The Strand Fully remodeled in 2016 | 3,340 SF | 5 BD, 3.5 BA including attached ADU – $3,599,000

30502 Palos Verdes Drive West Rancho Palos Verdes, CA

Open floorplan overlooking gorgeous ocean and sunset views, Remodeled 4 BD, 5 BA | 4,055 SF | 10,133 SF lot – $2,750,000

Raju Chhabria BRE: 00874072

Philo Chhabria BRE: 00897605

ChhabriaRE.com

Neil Chhabria BRE: 01821437

(310) 902-7227

Anand Chhabria BRE: 01908741

chhabria.realestate

Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed, buyer to conduct own investigations.

4125 Roessler Court, Palos Verdes Peninsula $2,499,000 | 5 BR | 2.5 BA | 3,370 square feet

310/938-9167 cariandbritt.com BRITT: BRE# 01799654 CARI: BRE# 00850678

A Private Oasis with Spectacular Views 7 Outrider Road, Rolling Hills 6 BR | 5 BA | 4,547 Sq Ft | $5,499,000 Welcome home to this entertainer’s dream behind the gates! Take in the sweeping views of ocean, city, and harbor from the large entertaining patio, common areas, and bedrooms. Walls of Nana doors seamlessly blend the indoors and outdoors, providing the ultimate Southern California living experience. Over an acre of flat usable land, with beautiful landscape design throughout by Deborah Richie-Bray including water features, fountains, and beautiful natural stone patios. Lower wrap-around lot with ample access and room for a stable includes new children’s playground, trampoline, and fenced vegetable garden. Six bedrooms and five baths provide generous living space for a family, including the attached guest house with kitchenette and private entrance. Built with the utmost attention to detail and quality, this home offers extensive use of French limestone and santos mahogany floors, doors and moldings of solid mahogany, and artisanal handfinished beams on the vaulted ceilings. The elegant remodeled kitchen offers granite countertops, professional quality Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, dual dishwashers, warming drawer, and U-line refrigerator drawers. This home has state of the art light and sound systems, dual zoned heating and air conditioning, and dual paned custom windows.

1640 Chelsea Rd, Palos Verdes Estates 5 bed | 4 baths | 3,573sf | Offered at $3,650,000

1737 Steinhart Ave, Redondo Beach 3 bed | 2.5 bath | 1,891sf | Offered at $1,529,000

DARIN DERENZIS 310.418.6210 DRE# 01760239 darin@vistasir.com

MEREDITH JOHNSON DERENZIS For more information on this property, use your smartphone camera to scan this code!

310.600.7973 DRE# 01907722 meredith@vistasir.com Each office is independently owned and operated.

A BE ACH HOUSE FOR E V ERY SE A SON Come home to The Villas at Terranea, an exclusive collection of whole-ownership second homes on the Palos Verdes Peninsula.

CASITA 21-301

VILLA 10-301

VILLA 13-301

$1,895,000 | 2BR + den | 2040 SF

$1,845,000 | 2 BR + den | 2337 SF

$1,825,000 | 3BR | 2421 SF

Discover a coastal getaway that’s as carefree as a vacation should be. The Villas and Casitas at Terranea afford privileged access to the best of the award-winning resort — including its world-class dining venues, championship golf course, indulgent spa and serene pool environments — while ownership comes with VIP status, preferred pricing on dining, spa treatments, shopping and golf, a personal Owners Concierge and around-the-clock upkeep.

Be among the fortunate few to call Terranea your very own seaside sanctuary, every season of the year For a showing, please call 424-275-5750 100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275

LDD LONG POINT MANAGEMENT, INC. DRE LICENSE #1774333

TERRANEAREALESTATE.COM

HOME SWEET, SOUTH BAY

As the South Bay real estate market continues to flourish, our communities are growing stronger than ever. This summer, enjoy everything the South Bay has to offer from incredible dining to familyfun events. While you’re making moves around town, remember you can count on us for all things real estate.

This is your AREA.

Follow @accardo_realestate on Instagram to stay up to date with local happenings, favorite things and South Bay events.

AREA | ACCARDO REAL ESTATE ASSOCIATES

Tony Accardo 310.855.3557 accardorealestate.com | DRE 01863340

Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01991628. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate.

999 Paseo La Cresta, Palos Verdes Estates

LI NE ST W IN G

$9,999,000 | www.999paseolacresta.com 7 Bd | 8 Ba | 10,484 sq.ft | 42,718 sq.ft lot (Almost 1 Acre Lot) | 4 Car Garage

905 Via Del Monte, Palos Verdes Estates

$7,295,000 | www.6490seacove.com Ocean Front | 6 Bd | 7 Ba | 7,617 sq.ft. | 27,987 sq.ft. lot | 4 Car Garage

$6,998,000 | www.905viadelmonte.com 6 Bd | 7 Ba | 5,771 sq.ft. | 13,080 sq.ft. lot | 3 Car Garage

LI NE ST W IN G

6490 Sea Cove, Rancho Palos Verdes

964 Via Rincon, Palos Verdes Estates

1012 Via Mirabel, Palos Verdes Estates

$5,495,000 | www.964viarincon.com Built 2007 | 2 Bd + Study | 4 Ba | 3,147 sq.ft. | 21,684 sq.ft. lot Panoramic views from ocean to the cities, mountains, and beyond

$3,699,000 | www.1012viamirabel.com 5 Bd | 5 Ba | 4,034 sq.ft. | 10,714 sq.ft. lot | 3 Car Garage

LILY LIANG

LL.COM

EDBYVARIOUS NFORMATION.

HOME TO THE FINEST COLLECTION HOME TOESTATE THE FINEST COLLECTION OF REAL EXPERTS IN THE SOUTH BAY. OF REAL ESTATE EXPERTS IN THE SOUTH BAY.

+1 310 373 3333 | 310 902 7799 Text STRANDHILL.COM STRANDHILL.COM

STRAND HILL | CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE LICENSE #01968431. THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, SQUARE FOOTAGE AND/OR

STRAND HILL|CHRISTIE’S REAL ESTATELICENSE #01968431.

THE INFORMATION INTHIS DOCUMENT, INCLUDING, BUTNOTLIMITED TO,SQUARE FOOTAGE AND/OR ACREAGE,HAS BEENPROVIDED BYVARIOUS ACREAGE, HAS BEENINTERNATIONAL PROVIDED BY VARIOUS SOURCES WHICH MAY INCLUDE CONTAINED THE SELLER, PUBLIC RECORDS, THE MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE OR OTHER SOURCES. BROKER HAS NOT AND WILL SOURCES WHICH MAY INCLUDE THE SELLER, PUBLIC RECORDS, THE MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE OR OTHER SOURCES. BROKER HAS NOT AND WILL NOT INVESTIGATE OR VERIFY THE ACCURACY OF THIS INFORMATION.

NOT INVESTIGATE OR VERIFY THE ACCURACY OF THIS INFORMATION.

lily@lilyliang.com | www.lilyliang.com 716 Yarmouth #202, Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274 BRE# 00837794

"A real gem to work with, Lisa is competent, kind, and very hardworking. She helped us get our dream home in a very competitive market. I have no hesitation in recommending her to all my friends."

Ranked Top Producer Year After Year Serving the South Bay and the Greater Los Angeles area since 2003 Trusted by high-profile executives, pro athletes & international companies

T H E TR U S TE D R E A L TO R lisalevin.com | 310.463.9118 | lisa@lisalevin.com CALBRE# 01345434

Custom Craftsman-style home with VIEWS of Ocean, Coast, Lights, Harbor & Catalina Asking $3,695,000 | 5,059 SqFt | Private 1+acre lot | 3+ BR | 5 BA | Dramatic 20ft Great Room Ceiling

Anna Randall

Chairman’s Circle, Re/Max Collection Specialist Cell: 310-413-0838 | AnnaRandall.com | annamrandall@gmail.com BRE#00592793

THE KONDO GROUP AT COMPASS!

THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT!

TAD, MICHELLE, VICTORIA, MEG, MORA, SHIMA, POUL ERIK,

LORENA, ALY, NOELLE, CHRISSY + LISA

3 1 0 .74 0 . 5 74 2

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H E L L O @ T H E K O N D O G R O U P. C O M | T H E K O N D O G R O U P. C O M TA DA S H I KO N D O | D R E 0 1 4 3 8 4 5 5

Add legal language: Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01991628. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed.

Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage.

INTRODUCING

LAST WORD

Out of the Shadows A LOCAL DAD SEES THE LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL. Written by Scott Sanford Tobis | Illustrated by Nikki Smith

2020 reminded me of a story we used when I was working

reopen, albeit on a truncated and slightly bizarre schedule.

as a counselor on a suicide hotline many years ago. When

My entire family was vaccinated. I was able to leave my

talking to a caller whom we simply couldn’t get through to,

house comfortably without a mask. I went under the knife

we were encouraged to use the analogy of closing a door to

two times to correct the damage caused by the accident the

the light in the world beyond them and locking themselves

year prior. (I am not listing these items in order of impor-

inside said room—eventually forgetting there is anything

tance, in case you were curious…)

in the world except for the darkness. 2020 seemed like that

noonday sun set against a brilliant blue sky. It’s more of a June

the other side of the door.

gloom kind of thing. But I know that my world is improving.

The Year of the Pandemic was brutal. Like many of us, I

with the numbers rising in other parts of the globe, my per-

stepfather, which was particularly devastating to my son; a

sonal experience has been of—dare I say—renewal?

year of high school; the inability to see family and friends.

2021 seems to be an altogether different kind of year. To

I cannot put into words the joy I felt watching my son play softball with his friends in the Manhattan Beach Big Ball League. The smiles on the teenagers’ faces—even when

reuse the suicide hotline analogy, I started to see a narrow

they were losing by a ridiculously large margin—felt like a

beam of light at the bottom of the door: the arrival of a

direct injection of light into my veins.

vaccine; a slightly more civil discourse of politics; rum-

The best moment so far: arriving at Dorsey Field to watch

blings of a return to some version of a traditional senior

the softball game just as the sun was setting in the distance.

year for my son.

I knew it would rise again tomorrow—for me, my family

Life continues to slowly improve. Mira Costa did finally

|

What was this sensation? A return to normalcy? Even

experienced a dire set of circumstances: the passing of my debilitating car accident; my 17-year-old son losing his final

130

To be fair, the light I see at the moment is not one of a

kind of year. It was all too easy to forget about the light on

and all of us. ■

TERRANEA C A L I F O R N I A

Rediscover Adventure at Southern California’s hidden gem.

8 5 5 . 41 6. 39 28 | T E R R A N E A .CO M | # T E R R A N E A D I S C O V E R Y | C O M M U N I T Y | S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y | E P I C U R E A N | W E L L N E S S | C E L E B R AT I O N

RECOVERY FOR YOUR MIND BODY & SOUL WE ARE HERE TO HELP EVERY STEP OF THE WAY ON YOUR JOURNEY OF RECOVERY The Thelma McMillen Recovery Center for alcohol and drug treatment at Torrance Memorial is making lasting changes in the lives of South Bay adults and adolescents as well as their families. Providing outpatient treatment services to help clients find sobriety within the framework of their daily lives is at the core of what we do.

TAKE THE FIRST STEP • CALL US FOR A FREE CONSULTATION AT 310.784.4879 VISIT US AT T helmaMcMillenRecoveryCenter.com