Mercedes-Benz of South Bay | Land Rover South Bay AutoNation Acura South Bay | AutoNation Ford Torrance
LA County Supervisor Janice Hahn | Kinecta Wealth Management
Farmers & Merchants Bank | South Bay Surgeons – A Cedars-Sinai Affiliate Global Farms Enterprises | UCLA Health | Donna H. Lee
Beach Front Property Management | Brian & Pauline Harris | City of Hope - South Bay
Continental Development Corporation | Cozen O’Conner Foundation | Kaiser Permanente LA County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell | Magee & Adler, APC
Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center - Torrance & San Pedro | Torrance Memorial Medical Center Southbay Magazine | Daily Breeze | The Beach Reporter | Palos Verdes Peninsula News | Easy Reader | Peninsula Magazine
Alex and Nancy Bologna | Elizabeth Grace Floral | Foundation Source | Kelly and Alan Vieweg | Wenzlau Vineyard
What some of our favorite locals have to say about life in the South Bay.
Remembering Greg Browning, Braun Levi and Ford Savela.
EAST MEETS WEST
From soul-satisfying ramen and innovative wafu pasta to delicious milk bread, the South Bay is enjoying a surge of Japaneseinspired delights.
FLIPPING THE SCRIPT
A Redondo Beach couple turns a pandemic pivot into the South Bay’s new favorite smash burger spot.
A Torrance-born interior designer revitalizes an aging dive bar, infusing it with a modern twist on a bygone era.
RESTAURANT GUIDE
Highlights of local dining
ALL IN THE FAMILY
Continuing a 72-year history with three generations of dedicated service, Paul Mance, Mickey Mance and Justin Essman know their venues are more than just about food. 62
SOFFI’S SPOTLIGHT
@thesouthbayclub’s Soffi Yessman shares best spots for summer sunset rituals.
IL DOLCE FAR NIENTE
At new eatery Stecca Taverna, the sweetest pleasures are enjoyed in the moment.
CIRCLE
A passionate community effort transforms Manhattan Beach’s iconic Roundhouse Aquarium into a meaningful family experience. 86
RAINBOW CONNECTION
Three original participants of Hermosa Beach Pride reflect on the event’s impact on the community, five years and counting.
Beyond the smiles, two local dentists are joyfully redefining wellness in the South Bay.
In The Dome at Cosm, photographer Bo Bridges surrounds spectators with his work.
After earning a silver medal for Team USA in Paris, Redondo Beach native Taylor Spivey sets her sights on LA 2028.
Tania Kvakic
A Manhattan Beach family chooses quality over quantity when renovating their longtime residence.
After a life-changing diagnosis, Kayla Mangione shifted her approach to food and inspired others with her online journey.
Salon | maie cosmetics
for a healthy lifestyle
In Tucson, Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa offers a sanctuary to relax and recharge.
Michele Garber, Linda Grasso, Karen Maguy, Kat Monk, Soffi Yessmann
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Michelle Villas
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Ajay Peckham, Yuiko Sugino
DIGITAL MARKETING Paul Fisher
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Amy Bartlam, Jeff Berting, Siri Berting, Andrew Bramasco, Bo Bridges, Fabien & Laura Castro, Jeffrey Fiterman, Nicholas Gingold, Jen Hochstadt, Kat Monk, Shane O’Donnell, Monica Orozco, Ken Pagliaro, Alexis Peterson, Lauren Taylor
PUBLISHER Jen Turquand 310-528-5351 | jen.turquand@thegoldenstatecompany.com
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Slice of Life
A South Bay diner for more than 20 years, I’ve witnessed the food scene change and evolve over time. From breakfast at Brother’s Burritos next door to our former Hermosa Pier office to white-tablecloth steak dinners on Manhattan Avenue, I’ve enjoyed meals of all styles and budgets—some many times over. Yet there’s always a new kid on the block grabbing my attention. That’s what is so great about this community: There’s something for every kind of appetite.
I also hold deep respect and admiration for the history that often accompanies a meal, be it a sub sandwich, sushi roll or steak frites. Many of our local eateries and the talented people who manage and service them bring familial, cultural and personal layers to their kitchens. It’s these stories that make the experience even more delicious.
In this issue, we explore the journey to success for a few of these establishments, some decades old and others very new. The legacy of Japanese cuisine in the South Bay traces back to the farms of the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Today a new batch of inspired eateries riff on cultural traditions and offer modern dishes both exciting and tasty.
A Hermosa Beach institution since the early 1950s,
Mickey’s Italian Deli & Pizzeria first served hungry South Bay locals under the leadership of founder Mickey Mance. In the capable hands of his son, Paul, for many years, the business then welcomed his grandson Mickey and business partner Justin, who continue the tradition—opening two more restaurants and counting.
Also in Hermosa, brand-new Stecca Taverna combines a local couple’s passion for travel and relaxed dining with a chef’s menu deeply rooted in Italian family traditions. Down in Redondo, a pandemic-era burger business started on a condo rooftop now enjoys a permanent home called Proudly Serving. Read about all these amazing culinary journeys on our pages.
And don’t miss our annual HEALTH section and guide to top medical, wellness and beauty experts here in the South Bay. That reminds me … better hit the gym to work off that slice of pizza.
Happy summer!
Darren
PHOTOGRAPHED
KARA MICKELSON | A graduate of UCLA and Le Cordon Bleu School of Culinary Arts, Kara trained in Spain and in Napa at the famed French Laundry. She has worked with Food Network chefs Bob Blumer and Giada De Laurentiis and others on the talk show circuit. She is an on-camera culinary expert, recipe developer, producer, writer and food stylist. Follow @styleddelicious.
MICHELE GARBER | A self-proclaimed information junkie, Michele has a penchant for history, news and trivia. “Family and friends teasingly say I’m a vast wealth of useless knowledge,” she says. Yet her eternal fascination with researching new subjects serves her well as a features writer.
TANYA MONAGHAN | Tanya is a fashion stylist, style influencer, editor and writer. She has worked for numerous international publications, such as InStyle and GQ, and served as fashion editor for Glamour South Africa. After relocating back home to Manhattan Beach with her husband and three children, she became a guest editor for Southbay, where she enjoys shining a light on inspirational people within the community.
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Bubble Talk
WHAT SOME OF OUR FAVORITE LOCALS HAVE TO SAY ABOUT LIFE IN THE SOUTH BAY
JP CORDERO VISUAL MEDIA & MARKETING MANAGER, BEACHLIFE FESTIVAL
Which South Bay dad, past or present, inspires you the most?
Greg Browning. A surf dad, filmmaker and legend who shaped how we see the ocean—and each other.
NICK RIERA OWNER, RIERA’S
PLACE
Summer vacation or staycation?
Staycation. Torrance Beach and other local beaches with my wife and our two boys.
CATERINA TOSCANO SENIOR DIRECTOR OF MEDIA & INFLUENCER MARKETING, MOONTIDE AGENCY
You need a picnic spot in town. Where do you go? You can’t go wrong with a picnic on the beach or Polliwog Park in Manhattan Beach.
THERESA
PLAKOS PUBLIC RELATIONS DIRECTOR, CANCER SUPPORT
COMMUNITY SOUTH BAY
What’s your go-to spot for happy hour?
I really like Kincaid’s on the Redondo Beach Pier. It has great views, a fun atmosphere and delicious appetizers.
SCOTT TOBIS SCREENWRITER & JOURNALIST
What do you love most about summer in the South Bay?
The best part of summer is I don’t need to brave traffic and leave the Bubble, since all of my friends want to be in the South Bay during the summer months and come to me.
Love & Loss
The South Bay said goodbye, far too soon, to three extraordinary souls. Each of them left an indelible mark on all they encountered—both in our community and beyond. Ford Savela, a Mira Costa High School senior remembered for his compassion and quiet strength, was taken in a tragic hit-and-run this January. His teachers called him a light in their classrooms; his friends remember him as a beacon of kindness. In April, the surf world lost Greg Browning—legendary pro surfer, filmmaker and father—whose brave fight against ALS inspired a global tide of love and admiration. And in May, 18-year-old Braun Levi, a rising tennis star with a magnetic smile and limitless promise, was struck down by a drunk driver just steps from home. The South Bay grieves, but we do so as we always have … together. Whether you joined in a paddle-out into the Pacific to celebrate their lives or chose to honor them in your own way, we carry Ford, Greg and Braun and their loved ones in our hearts and memories.
Written by Tanya Monaghan | Photographed by Bo Bridges
East Meets West
FROM SOUL-SATISFYING RAMEN AND INNOVATIVE WAFU PASTA TO DELICIOUS MILK BREAD, THE SOUTH BAY IS ENJOYING A SURGE OF JAPANESE-INSPIRED DELIGHTS.
Written & produced by Kara Mickelson | Photographed by Shane O’Donnell
Inventive Japanese cuisine, expanding beyond its strongholds in Gardena and Torrance, dazzles the Beach Cities as an exciting and welcome trend. At Unico Tokyo Pasta and Bread, Espresso & in Redondo Beach and RYLA in Hermosa Beach, a vibrant mix of flavors is redefining Japanese dining beyond traditional sushi.
The Japanese American legacy in the South Bay is complex, shaped by resilience through a challenging history. Early Japanese immigrants excelled in agriculture and fishing, laying the foundation for today’s culinary scene. From late 19th-century farming successes to the hardships of World War II internment, their story is one of strength and recovery. A new generation of chefs now builds on this heritage, blending tradition with invention.
Terminal Island, now a commercial port, was once a
“company town” and community for Japanese families working at a tuna cannery. Restrictive laws barred successful local Japanese fishermen from abalone fishing at White Point on the Palos Verdes Peninsula and prohibited boat ownership in the area, thus pushing them to give up their businesses for company roles.
Members of the Ishibashi family were the earliest immigrant farmers on the Peninsula. They created an agricultural legacy due to their success in “dry farming,” a practice well suited for the coastal landscape.
The 40 Families Project documents this history, subtly connecting it to the proliferation of Japanese-inspired restaurants today as new generations flourish.
As immigration increased, drawing in skilled farmers for economic benefits, the Peninsula was transformed into a hub for fresh flowers and produce including quality tomatoes and strawberries, shipped to markets and restaurants across California and beyond. Roadside stands, like Annie’s Stand, helped embed Japanese American culture into the South Bay’s community fabric.
This legacy of quality produce and cultural visibility also laid a foundation for the region’s embrace
RYLA Matcha-tini
Make with clean, soft, slightly sweet Japanese rice vodka. Homemade matcha syrup is the perfect touch of rich, sweet, grassy, umami flavor—the heart of the drink.
Whisk the matcha with a splash of hot water in a bowl until smooth and frothy (no clumps). Add the rest of the hot water and stir. Stir in sugar until fully dissolved. Cool and bottle. Store in the fridge for up to a week.
COCKTAIL
.75 ounces Haku vodka
.75 ounces Chiran Tea Chu
.75 ounces matcha syrup
¼ cup heavy cream, cold
Combine first three ingredients in a mixing glass. Add ice and stir for 20 to 25 seconds until well chilled and properly diluted. Strain into a chilled glass.
Lightly whip cream until it thickens slightly but is still pourable. Gently float it over the back of a spoon on top of the cocktail for a smooth finish. Garnish with a dusting of matcha powder.
of Japanese culinary traditions. While some Japanese Americans left post-war, many rebuilt. Newcomers enriched the region’s cultural and culinary scene.
Sushi has long been a Beach Cities favorite, from California Beach Rock n’ Sushi in Hermosa Beach, founded in the early ’80s, to Sushi I-Naba’s Michelinstarred Manhattan Beach location. Now, a broader range of Japanese-inspired dining is emerging.
RYLA, opened in 2022 by Chef Ray Hayashi and Chef Cynthia Hetlinger, offers a modern take on izakayastyle dining. Their menu reimagines classics like sushi and ramen, featuring a “Lobstah Roll”—a riff on the New England staple.
According to Ray, the menu is a delicate balance between nostalgia and creativity, taking familiar flavors and delivering them in a way that feels authentic, modern and personal. They have added three or four types of ramen to the daily menu, and their signature Hokkaido milk bread with tobiko nori spread, inspired by Ray’s mother’s recipe, is a popular staple.
RYLA also plays with texture, plating or adding surprise elements like the Matcha Tiramisu or Mapo Paccheri Pasta to the menu. Annual trips to Japan fuel inspiration, with Ray noting a focus on restraint and precision in even the simplest dishes—a reflection of Japanese culinary philosophy.
Their recent Michelin Guide inclusion was a milestone. “If we introduce new flavors while offering comfort and connection, we’ve done our job,” says Cynthia.
Takashi “Taka” Sada, founder of Japonica and Unico Tokyo Pasta, moved from Japan to the South Bay in 2001, drawn by the beach lifestyle and surfing. Seeing a culinary gap, he opened Japonica in 2002, an izakaya blending authentic and modern Japanese cuisine. Unlike high-end sushi spots, Japonica offers a relaxed, communal vibe for lingering over sake and food—a nod to Japanese social culture.
With three South Bay locations, Taka launched Unico Tokyo Pasta in 2025, introducing the area to wafu pasta. This post-World War II fusion of Japanese and Italian American cuisine uses umami-rich ingredients like soy, miso and nori with staples like uni or shio koji.
Taka first tasted wafu pasta in Osaka. It wasn’t
The menu is a delicate balance between nostalgia and creativity, taking familiar flavors and delivering them in a way that feels authentic, modern and personal.
Unico Tokyo Uni Cream Pasta
Serves 1
1 clove garlic, peeled, finely chopped
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 anchovy filet, deboned, finely chopped
2 tablespoons white wine
2 ounces uni, prepared and removed from shell
3 tablespoons tomato puree
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 teaspoon shio koji salt and cracked black pepper, to taste microgreens or parsley garnish, optional
1 cup cooked and drained spaghetti pasta
In a medium saucepan, sauté garlic in olive oil over medium-low heat until light brown. Turn off heat and add anchovy. Adjust the pan from the burner and stir to avoid burning. Mix ingredients until combined. Turn heat to medium, add wine and cook until evaporated. Add uni, tomato puree and cream. Simmer over low heat until slightly thickened. Season with shio koji, salt and pepper. Serve with cooked spaghetti.
This post-World War II fusion of Japanese and Italian American cuisine uses umami-rich ingredients.
until he came to the United States that he realized this unique Japanese version of Italian American food was not truly Italian. He aims to share this “fun fusion cuisine” with the South Bay, seeing his destiny as showcasing Japanese culture through his restaurants.
Taka’s business acumen—coupled with the culinary innovation of his wife, Chika, at Unico Tokyo Pasta in Redondo Beach—helps them earns rave reviews. Favorites like garlic anchovy and uni pasta join reimagined classics like Caesar salad and Bolognese, served in a bright, casual setting.
Bread, Espresso &, a Tokyo-based bakery café founded in 2009, brings its acclaimed “better-for-you” baked goods to Redondo Beach, marking its first U.S. location. Cube-shaped mou bread—their signature offering—has a soft, fluffy inner crumb and crisp exterior when toasted. This creation of Chef Sakurai Tadatsugu is a variation of the popular shokupan Japanese white bread and Hokkaido milk bread. It is a deliciously addictive hybrid of French pain de mie (essentially elevated white bread) and melt-in-your-mouth brioche without the heavy hand of butter in the mix.
The brand aims to be part of the in-dining or “eat at home” experience, with its assortment of grab-andgo bakery items. General manager Takuma “Kosa” Kozaiwa credits strategy and luck for securing the former Two Guns Espresso space. Customers select freshbaked items from glass displays using trays and tongs, often lining up for oven-fresh batches. On the menu, you will find interesting savory items like ginger pork, tandoori chicken sandwiches and a mou soup bowl with lobster bisque or clam chowder in addition to sweet offerings. A coffee bar with Caffe Luxxe beans, premium teas and mocktails rounds out the menu.
The South Bay’s evolving Japanese American cuisine reflects a cultural realignment, harmonizing traditional principles of balance, or washoku, with modern creativity. This culinary renaissance, driven by a new generation of chefs and entrepreneurs, celebrates Japanese American resilience, ingenuity and adaptability—enriching the coastal community with new and diverse dining options. ■
Cube-shaped mou bread— their signature offering—has a soft, fluffy inner crumb and crisp exterior when toasted.
MY MANHATTAN BEACH
Jen Caskey
THE JEN CASKEY GROUP AT COMPASS
805 MANHATTAN AVE., SUITE 201, MANHATTAN BEACH | 310-200-5900
JENCASKEYGROUP.COM | @JEN CASKEYGROUP.COM | DRE #01075946
Jen Caskey grew up in Manhattan Beach and raised her sons in her hometown. After graduating from Mira Costa High School and USC, she got her start in real estate working with her mother—an agent at Shorewood Realtors. For the past three decades, Jen has utilized those experiences to help people find their ideal homes in the South Bay. Her insight into the community makes her a valuable resource. “I know everything there is to know about Manhattan Beach—the qualities of each neighborhood, the local schools, the people,” says Jen. “There is so much goodness here!”
Best Friday Afternoon
Fishing With Dynamite for oysters and Chablis. Bartender Sal is the best! Go with the girls or take a date; you won’t be disappointed.
Best Mexican Food
At El Sombrero, the food is always delicious and the hospitality can’t be beat. Jose will greet you with “Welcome home,” and you will leave with “See you mañana.” This is El Som’s 50-year anniversary—make sure to stop in and say hi.
Wag-worthy Dog Walk
Veterans Parkway/the Greenbelt woodchip path is Winnie’s favorite spot Nothing better than frolicking in the ice plant or chasing squirrels. Fun fact: The Greenbelt area was previously a branch of the Santa Fe Railroad. On the way to Robinson Elementary, my sister and I would put coins on the tracks so they would get smashed!
Simply Delicious
For a truly delish dinner, Love & Salt does not disappoint. Sylvie Gabriele is at the helm of this Italian-inspired restaurant with SoCal soul, where my favorite dishes are the chicken, mushroom pizza and fennel salad.
Flipping the Script
A REDONDO BEACH COUPLE TURNS A PANDEMIC PIVOT INTO THE SOUTH BAY’S NEW FAVORITE SMASH BURGER SPOT.
Written by Tanya Monaghan | Photographed by Nicholas Gingold
When Matt and Jenn McIvor first moved to Redondo Beach, they couldn’t have predicted that their own driveway would become the most buzzed-about burger hot spot in the South Bay. But as Matt puts it, “Our journey, like many successful ventures, started humbly.”
What began as a pandemic-era change born out of necessity has grown into Proudly Serving, a must-visit for its smash burgers, craft beer and natural wine. Before the sizzle of burgers and scent of griddled onions wafted down South Bay streets, Matt and Jenn were East Coasters, navigating their 20s in Salt Lake City.
“We met through the Jersey music scene,” Jenn recalls. “It was all about live shows and mutual friends— very connected to music.” That passion still pulses through Proudly Serving, from the punk-influenced branding to the playlists echoing in their Hermosa and Redondo locations.
They landed in Los Angeles in 2009, gravitating toward the Beach Cities that reminded them of the Jersey Shore. The McIvors soon immersed themselves in the hospitality and PR worlds, helping restaurants adapt to the then-nascent tool of social media. But by 2020, Matt was ready for something different.
“COVID was sort of a blessing in disguise,” he reflects. “I had one foot out the door already, and when clients started dropping like flies, I knew it was now or never.” So he turned to a familiar comfort: burgers. Not just any burgers, but the perfect smash burger.
Armed with a $30 tabletop griddle from Target, Matt set up shop on the rooftop of their Redondo condo. Jenn remembers those early days vividly: “We had a pod with our condo neighbors, so we’d all meet in the driveway. Matt would make burgers, and everyone would give feedback. It was our own little burger test kitchen.”
After plenty of iterations, Matt says the 15th
attempt finally hit the flavor profile he’d dreamed of. The PS Burger (short for Proudly Serving) was born. Encouraged by rave reviews from neighbors and strangers alike, the McIvors launched their first pop-up in their driveway.
“We had a line of 75 to 100 people wrapping around the block,” Matt laughs. Jenn was whipping up cookies and fries, and the two operated like a full-blown restaurant—without actually having one.
As their pop-up momentum grew, so did their ambitions. They held events everywhere from Long Beach to Pasadena but found their sweet spot in the South Bay. “We had a residency at Select Beer Store in Redondo every Friday,” Matt says. “That really built our local following.”
They also popped up regularly at Riviera Village favorites like The Aloha Bungalow and collaborated with beloved neighborhood spots like Project Barley. The couple cultivated not just customers but genuine community fans.
“These places gave us a shot when we were just slinging burgers off a folding table,” Jenn adds. “We’re forever grateful. That’s what the South Bay is all about—people helping each other grow.”
Soon, opportunity knocked. Project Barley on the Redondo Pier offered Matt and Jenn use of their underutilized kitchen. “It was the break we needed—our first shot at a brick-and-mortar with minimal overhead,” Matt says. “It was still a real restaurant though, and we had to learn fast.”
The Pier location thrived, with lines forming before opening. But the McIvors still dreamed of a space they could call their own. When Matt noticed a vacant storefront while driving home, he made the call—and to his surprise, the price was within reach. With help
“I WANT PEOPLE TO NOT JUST EAT HERE; I WANT THEM TO HANG OUT, BRING FRIENDS, ENJOY THE VIBE. HOSPITALITY IS EVERYTHING.”
from friends and a lot of elbow grease, Proudly Serving Hermosa Beach opened its doors.
“It’s not fancy—it’s got its quirks,” Matt admits. “But that adds to the charm. Especially here in the Beach Cities, people love those surviving shacks. It’s part of the culture.”
The newest Redondo location is a step up in terms of space and design. “We had the money this time to really bring the brand to life,” Matt says. “It’s clean, bright, with natural light and a much bigger kitchen.”
And yes, the wait times are significantly shorter.
The Proudly Serving brand continues to evolve. There’s a food truck on the horizon, and they’re dipping into natural wine with a new label called Everything Is Orange. “We’re making our own orange wine with a winemaker friend,” Jenn beams. “It’s a nod to our branding and a first for the South Bay’s natural wine scene.”
Integral to the story is their son, Owen, now 5½, who’s been part of the journey from the beginning. “We used to plan pop-ups around his nap schedule,” Jenn says. “Now he loves being in the kitchen and helping out.”
The McIvors refer to him as their “mascot,” and there’s even video of him taking his first bite of a PS Burger—pure magic.
Despite their success, Matt is far from complacent. “The real journey starts now,” he says. “I’m not someone who can just be content. There’s always a next step.”
In addition to the food truck and future locations, Matt dreams of building Proudly Serving into a lifestyle brand. “I want people to not just eat here; I want them to hang out, bring friends, enjoy the vibe. Hospitality is everything.”
That ethos shines through every aspect of their business, from the curated playlist to the thoughtfully designed interiors and laid-back coastal energy. “You can grab food anywhere,” Matt says. “I want this to be a place people are excited to visit.”
And the South Bay is definitely excited. As loyal locals are lining up weekly, Proudly Serving has become more than just a burger joint—it’s a community staple, built on grit, flavor and a whole lot of heart. ■
Den Dreaming
A
TORRANCE-BORN INTERIOR DESIGNER REVITALIZES AN AGING DIVE BAR, INFUSING IT WITH A MODERN TWIST ON A BYGONE ERA.
Written by Jennie Nunn
Photographed by Andrew Bramasco
When Los Angeles- and London–based interior designer Sage Gracie Allard was entrusted with transforming Pat’s II Cocktail Lounge, a storied 1950s watering hole in Redondo Beach, into The Fox Den, a sleek and stylish cocktail lounge, she instantly extracted her childhood memories.
“I grew up in a 1950s house with a large woodpaneled den, popcorn ceiling and stone fireplace,” explains Sage, a Torrance native. “I’ll never forget that house and how badly I wanted to redesign it. This was a very cathartic way for me to design it how I wish my childhood home was.”
But overseeing the project remotely from her new base in London via late-night FaceTime calls was no easy feat. She had previously collaborated with owner Seth Weiss on numerous projects, such as Max’s Sports Grill in Huntington Beach, and Fox & Farrow and Underground Pub & Grill in Hermosa Beach. They decided to approach the full gut remodel with an artful amalgamation of attractive yet durable furnishings juxtaposed with cheeky and playful wallpaper, artwork and accessories to create specific design moments.
“It was a dark, gritty and dingy hole-in-the-wall bar with a 6 a.m. liquor license,” says Sage of the former establishment. “Picture black carpet, popcorn ceilings, ceiling fans, no windows, wood panels, low lights and pool tables. Seth envisioned Don Draper having a
cocktail here, so we drew inspiration from that and created a 1960s airport lounge with den nostalgia— complete with wood-paneled walls, rugs, lamps and lots of ambient lighting.”
To achieve the vibe of chic airport lounge and mid-century modern living room, Sage sprinkled in one-of-a-kind collected finds from her Mary Poppins design sleeve: A spray-painted silver fox statue procured from a Connecticut garden store and placed in an alcove defined by emerald-hued Zellige tile. Barbie dolls arranged in diorama-like frames affixed to restroom doors. A main bar with quartz countertops from Marwell by Cambria, brown leather barstools from Pottery Barn and Champignon 3-Light fixtures from West Elm.
Other whimsical winks and throwback elements include a portrait by Los Angeles artist Nick Corney of Bob Dylan smoking a cigarette; a collection of photographs portraying a vintage car in St. Tropez by Lella Soper and sunbathers on the Amalfi Coast by Emily Abay; and roaring tiger-patterned wallpaper inspired by an original Gucci design. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed at a front entry clad entirely in faux brown fur.
“I wanted the entrance to be covered in fur—something I got after watching Get Him to the Greek,” explains Sage. “These fun, tactile elements are not frequently
utilized in adult spaces, and I appreciate them. I wanted to have lots of comfortable nooks around the space—so although it’s a long, narrow, open room, you feel like you have your own little area defined.”
The moody and upscale lounge is divided into four distinct zones for mingling with other locals, sipping, lounging and playing darts. The sophisticated drink menu offers favorites such as espresso martinis and the Grey Goose vodka–based Pink Panther. DJs provide entertainment on the weekends.
“It’s your local living room—like your own home where you can be so comfortable you don’t want to get up from the sofa or chair,” Sage says of the project that she designed with SFJones Architects and contractor Michael Ferraro. “It’s a fun place to go and get dressed up, but I wanted people to feel comfortable to come in flip-flops too.”
Sage, who acknowledges the design is a departure from the norm, takes pride in the outcome. “As a native South Bay resident, I grew up with so many spaces leaning in to the beach vibe for obvious reasons. So I get excited when I can steer away from that. Living here doesn’t mean you don’t want to experience other places. I love that you feel transported out of the beach environment when you walk into The Fox Den, and you can be in a different world.” ■
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Restaurant Guide
Summer is here, and that means warm-weather dining and seasonal menus at our local restaurants. Check out these wonderful South Bay venues, ready to take your reservation and offer a memorable experience.
BALEENkitchen
Enjoy Knotty Hour, weekend brunch, weekly live music, marina views and cozy fireside seating. Named one of Los Angeles’ top 10 waterside dining spots by Zagat.
The Portofino Hotel & Marina
260 Portofino Way, Redondo Beach
310-372-1202
portofinobaleen@hotelportofino.com
@baleenkitchenla
Bluewater Grill
Located on the water amid the sailboats, we offer sustainable seafood with splendid views. Enjoy our large heated patio, private event rooms, full bar and happy hour!
665 N. Harbor Dr., Redondo Beach
310-318-3474
bluewatergrill.com
@bluewatergrill
Bettolino Kitchen
Crafting fresh California coastal Italian dishes for South Bay food lovers by a fourth-generation restaurant family. Stay tuned for our private banquet room coming winter 2025!
Your favorite new Manhattan Beach dining destination. Enjoy the charm of a reimagined local gem inspired by California cuisine and the vibrant beachside lifestyle.
124 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach
310-798-2744
brewcosocial.com
@brewcosocial
Bites & Bashes
The café branch of our mother/daughterowned celebrity catering company has the South Bay’s best breakfast burritos and farm-to-table brunch options. A hidden gem you can’t miss.
Known for creative, globally inspired pizzas, pastas and salads made with fresh, highquality ingredients in a vibrant setting.
Manhattan Village 3320 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Manhattan Beach
310-796-1233
cpk.com
@cpk
restaurant guide
Captain Kidds Fish Market & Restaurant
Serving the freshest seafood in the South Bay since 1976. A Redondo Beach landmark in the heart of King Harbor. Multiple indoor-outdoor patios and seafood delivered daily.
209 N. Harbor Drive, Redondo Beach 310-372-7703 | captainkidds.com @captainkidds
Fête Bistro by Slay
Where traditional American flirts with French finesse and Mediterranean.
Winkingly elegant interior, locally sourced dishes and Slay Estate wines create a bistro experience as thoughtful as it is celebratory.
1017 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach
310-376-1536
fetebyslay.com
@slayrestaurantgroup
Creme De La Crepe
Serving authentic French cuisine in the South Bay since 2003. Enjoy a family brunch on our patios or an intimate date night by candlelight.
424 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach 310-937-2822
1708½ S. Catalina Ave., Redondo Beach 310-540-8811 cremedelacrepe.com | @cremedelacreperb
Good Stuff Restaurants
Location, location, location! For 45 years, we’ve been a South Bay staple—serving up award-winning food, warm hospitality and good vibes at four iconic locations.
1286 The Strand, Hermosa Beach
1617 S. PCH, Redondo Beach
550 Deep Valley Dr., Rolling Hills Estates
131 W. Grand Ave., El Segundo eatgoodstuff.com | @eatgoodstuff
Dan Modern Chinese
Handmade dumplings, wok-fired noodles, bold flavors. We blend tradition with modern flair for unforgettable meals.
Manhattan Village
3160 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Suite 140, Manhattan Beach 310-546-1588
danmodernchinese.com @danmodernchinese
Great American International Seafood Market
Shop fresh fish and so much more at our family-owned market, with a curated mix of seafood products, specialty ingredients and ready-to-eat salads. Gift cards available.
Golden Cove Center
31224 Palos Verdes Dr. W., Rancho Palos Verdes 310-750-6074 | greatamericanseafoodmarket.com @great_american_seafood_market
Love.Life Café + Wellness Bar
Nutrient-packed, flavorful food to fuel your active lifestyle. Come for the salads, bowls and smoothies; stay for the ultimate holistic health and wellness experience.
740 S. Pacific Coast Hwy., El Segundo 310-623-6895
love.life
@theofficiallove.life
LoZio Osteria
The newest South Bay pizzeria with full bar. Cocktails, amazing wines and tons of fresh pizza and more, plus our amazing outdoor patio.
320 S. Catalina Ave., Redondo Beach 310-921-8286 @lozio_osteria loziopizzeria.net
Montauk
Where coastal elegance meets culinary seduction. Indulge in refined flavors, moody lighting and timeless sophistication just steps from the shore. Your table is waiting.
1611 S. Catalina Ave., Redondo Beach 213-596-2699 montaukinredondo.com @montauk_rb
Pacific Standard Prime
Savor tastier, healthier food with ingredients from farmers markets and humane ranches. Succulent steaks, fresh seafood, great salads and more, plus boutique wines and artisan cocktails.
1810 S. Pacific Coast Hwy., Redondo Beach 424-247-7521 pspsteak.com @pspsteak
Mercado
Traditional yet contemporary elevated Mexican cuisine accessible to everyone! Enjoy daily food and drink features, Taco Tuesday, regular and late-night happy hours, and private dining.
Manhattan Village 3212A N. Sepulveda Blvd., Manhattan Beach 310-545-0388 | @mercadomanhattanbeach cocinasycalaveras.com/mercado-mb-menu
Primo Italia
For generations, our families have enjoyed the tradition of homemade Italian cuisine and hospitality. Recently awarded the Marchio Q for excellence in Italian food and hospitality.
24590 Hawthorne Blvd., Torrance 310-378-4288
eatprimo.com @primo_italia
restaurant guide
R/10 Social House
Located in Redondo Beach’s Marina, we are a neighborhood gastropub offering farmto-table food, handcrafted cocktails and a selection of intriguing, affordable artisan beers and wines.
179 N. Harbor Dr., Redondo Beach
310-798-2500
r10socialhouse.com
@r10socialhouse
Riviera Mexican Cantina
The South Bay’s newest oceanfront Mexican restaurant, located in King Harbor Marina. An OpenTable Diners Choice winner. Now open for weekend brunch starting at 10 a.m.
207 N. Harbor Dr., Redondo Beach
310-374-2689
info@therivmexcantina.com
@therivmexcantina
Radici
Rooted in Italian tradition, we are a familyowned gem by Chef Lucia and her daughter Laura, serving elevated, authentic cuisine with heartfelt hospitality.
934 Hermosa Ave., Hermosa Beach
310-318-0778
radicihermosabeach.com
@radici_hb
Riviera Mexican Grill
Serving the best Mexican food in the South Bay since 1996. Enjoy our famous fish tacos and margaritas on our multiple outdoor patios. See you at the Riv.
1615 S. Pacific Coast Hwy., Redondo Beach
310-540-2501
therivmex.com @therivmex
Riera’s Place
A family-run deli offering a wide range of breakfast burritos, sandwiches, salads, fresh poké, Sicilian-style pizzas and catering services. Monday through Saturday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Closed Sunday.
1908 S. Pacific Coast Hwy., Redondo Beach
310-316-1908
rierasplace.com @rierasplace
Rock’N Fish
The original steak & seafood house in Manhattan Beach. Celebrating 25 years of big portions, big pours and unforgettable hospitality. Now serving $10 happy hour!
3160 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Suite S100, Manhattan Beach saintandsecond.com
@saintandsecond
Slay Beach Grill, Hermosa
A beach-chic bistro with rooftop dining, locally grown wines and fresh coastal fare. Farm-to-beach cuisine meets laid-back sophistication in our Hermosa gem.
2620 Hermosa Ave., Hermosa Beach
310-921-8779
slayhermosa.com
@slayhermosabeach
Salt & Pearl
From the ocean’s freshest catch to sumptuous land-based fare, we provide an all-encompassing dining experience with a menu that is sure to please.
1719 S. Catalina Ave., Redondo Beach
310-372-0122
saltandpearlrb.com @saltandpearlrb
Slay Italian Kitchen
Rustic Italian fare, wood-fired pizzas, housemade pasta and wines—crafted from the bounty of Slay Estate & Vineyard. Vibrant, fresh, Cal-Ital.
1001 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach
424-257-8301
slayitaliankitchen.com @slayrestaurantgroup
Sea Level
Harbor-front hot spot with stunning views featuring California coastal cuisine, $10 daily happy hour, weekend brunch and live music!
655 North Harbor Dr., Redondo Beach
rb.shadehotel.com/dine
310-921-8950
@sealevelrb
Slay Steak + Fish House
A refined surf-and-turf experience featuring sustainable seafood, cast-iron steaks and ingredients from Slay Estate. Sophistication and heartfelt hospitality define our Manhattan Beach destination.
1141 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach
310-504-0902
slaysteakandfishhouse.com @slayrestaurantgroup
restaurant guide
Stecca Taverna
Honoring Piedmont’s and Liguria’s rich culinary crossroads with Chef Giorgio Vizia’s modern, vibrant Italian dishes rooted in deep tradition and cultural fusion.
439 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach
310-504-0865
steccataverna.com @steccataverna
The Strand House
Enjoy 180° sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and a California Coastal menu highlighting the bounty of produce available year-round in Southern California.
117 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach
310-545-7470
thestrandhousemb.com @strandhousemb
Surfer Girl
We offer modern coastal cuisine, sunset dining and oceanfront views on a vibrant patio blending historic charm and stylish elegance.
Sea Sprite Beach Club
1016 The Strand, Hermosa Beach
310-376-6933
seaspritebeachclub.com/dining @seaspritehb
The Rockefeller
The South Bay’s original gastropub, with locations in Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach and Manhattan Beach. Locally owned since 2011.
Celebrating 62 years in Palos Verdes, we have been a local favorite for three generations. Still owned and operated by the founding family.
736 Bart Earle Way, Rolling Hills Estates 310-377-5660 originalredonion.com
Unico Tokyo Pasta
A pasta-only restaurant where Italian tradition meets Japanese refinement. Our wafu pasta offers a harmonious fusion of flavor, texture and umami.
1310 S. Pacific Coast Hwy, Redondo Beach 424-766-1841 unicopasta.com @unico.pasta
Urban Plates
Enjoy craveable, made-from-scratch plates, salads, sandwiches and bowls, all at prices that won’t break the bank. Open for dine-in, takeout and delivery.
Manhattan Village 2650 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Manhattan Beach 424-350-0393
urbanplates.com
@urbanplates
Vida Modern Mexican + Tequila
A Baja-inspired modern-day Mexican eatery and bar that holds true to south-ofthe-border fan favorites, combined with some creative twists on East Los Angeles comfort foods.
1723 S. Catalina Ave., Redondo Beach 310-430-7787
eatdrinkvida.com | @eatdrinkvida
zinc@shade
Downtown buzz meets beach fun featuring $10 happy hour, weekend brunch and live music! The indoor-outdoor setting is perfect for your next celebration.
1221 N. Valley Dr., Manhattan Beach mb.shadehotel.com/dine 310-698-5559 @shadehotelmb
All in the Family
CONTINUING A 72-YEAR HISTORY WITH THREE GENERATIONS OF DEDICATED SERVICE, PAUL MANCE, MICKEY MANCE AND JUSTIN ESSMAN KNOW THEIR VENUES ARE MORE THAN JUST ABOUT FOOD. THEY’RE CREATING MEMORIES AND SPACES WHERE PEOPLE FEEL AT HOME.
Written by Darren Elms | Photographed by Shane O’Donnell
Paul Mance remembers walking around his father’s Hermosa Beach deli and market as early as age 5. “It was all family that worked there then. It was my uncles, cousins, and my grandfather was around,” he says.
His dad, Michael Angelo “Mickey” Mance, was a musician as a young man but shied away from the artist lifestyle. He opened Mickey’s Italian Deli & Pizzeria in 1953 so he could spend time with his family.
“What my dad did was unbelievable,” Paul shares. “When he first opened, he worked day and night, so his friend wanted to take him away on a fishing trip to Catalina. My dad went to lay down on the boat, and when he woke up they were already on their way home. He slept through the whole trip.”
Paul worked at the deli all through his childhood, into high school and summers back home from college. By the ’80s he was working full time alongside his dad, uncles and brother-in-law. He asked his dad how to run the business, and Mickey replied, “Watch me and find out.”
“He wanted us to figure it out,” Paul says. “My dad was ‘the guy,’ and he would always be ‘the guy.’”
Mickey continued to work at the deli all the way through the late ’90s. “Then he got sick, and we lost him in 2001,” says Paul. “I questioned myself. I’d sit in the office, look at his picture and ask, ‘What do I do?’”
Remembering how his dad ran the business, Paul immediately stepped in—making discoveries until he caught on. Like Mickey, there were times he struggled to find time off, but he still prioritized his family and made sure he was there for his kids’ games.
Paul’s son, also named Mickey, grew up in the same Rancho Palos Verdes house that his parents still live in today. “I can remember coming down to Hermosa when we were really young,” he says. “All my cousins and I would go to Mickey’s, jump into the kitchen and make pizzas with the team before heading to the beach.”
Like his dad, he would spend summers working at
the deli while attending college in San Diego. Back in the South Bay in 2014, Mickey began work at a digital marketing and advertising agency in Torrance.
While there, he helped with various things at Mickey’s Italian Deli including getting their digital presence up to date, restructuring the catering menu and offerings, setting up a new POS system and upgrading some equipment in the store.
“My dad never pressured me to join the family business, but during that time—as we were making all these improvements—I saw a huge opportunity to continue growing the business,” he says. “I also felt a strong calling to carry on my grandfather’s legacy. By 2016 I made the decision to come on full time, and I’ve been here ever since.”
Working with his son, Paul soon realized Mickey was more like his dad than he was. “I feel so safe with Mickey running things,” he shares. “We’re a lot different in personality—I’m more emotional while he’s very calm and collected.”
Mickey’s presence has not only enhanced the business, but it has also given Paul much-needed time off to travel with his wife to Italy and elsewhere. Knowing that his dad wouldn’t be at the deli forever, Mickey also recognized a need for a business partner to continue the family legacy.
Mickey met Justin Essman through his wife, Bree, when they both attended Long Beach State. “We got along right away,” he recalls. “We both had grown up in hospitality and became close friends—grabbing lunch, talking through ideas, even traveling together. It was a true friendship from the start.”
Born in Santa Monica but raised in Palm Desert, Justin grew up around his parent’s estate and consignment store at El Paseo. His mother, Emma, came from Bologna, Italy, to Los Angeles with her parents—master tailors who helped create costumes for the original Main Street Electrical Parade at Disneyland. Justin’s father, Rick, hailed from Long Island, New York, and made his way out to California, finding a place in the jewelry business.
Like it was for Mickey, Italian culture was a major
influence throughout Justin’s upbringing. “I developed a deep appreciation for authentic Italian food, European fashion and traditions rooted in family and hospitality,” he says. “I was lucky enough to spend time in Italy as a child, learning the language and connecting with my extended family, but more importantly the culture and way of life that allows you to connect with all walks of life. I can connect very specific and personally influential moments in my life to meals and holidays, and that is something deeply ingrained in every fiber in my body.”
With uncles behind a series of Italian restaurants called Spumoni on the Westside, Justin also spent many summers working with his family at their businesses. Though originally enrolled at Long Beach State to study film, he found himself drawn to the hospitality program and made a pivot.
His first job in college was checking IDs at the front door of Panama Joe’s in Belmont Shore, which had been recently acquired by the family that owned Baja Sharkeez. “It wasn’t glamorous, but it was the beginning of my journey into the industry I now love,” he says.
His relationship with Sharkeez would flourish over the years, eventually leading to an operating partner role and helping launch Tower 12 in Hermosa Beach.
“It was one of the most challenging and rewarding projects I had taken on up to that point,” he shares. “The tools, structure and business mentorship I received from Sharkeez—especially from Greg Newman and the team at the corporate office—played a foundational role in preparing me for any opportunity in the hospitality industry.”
It wasn’t until COVID-19 hit that Mickey and Justin first discussed the idea of opening a restaurant together. “As crazy as it sounds, all of our industry being completely closed down is what sparked us having the conversation,” says Mickey. “What started as an offthe-cuff comment turned into a real conversation and eventually led us to where we are today.”
For Justin, the pandemic forced a deep reflection. “Arguably one of the hardest professional decisions I’ve ever made was stepping away from the Sharkeez family—an organization and group of people that had
helped shape my career,” he says. “But ultimately I made a decision I felt was best for my family and our future. I wanted to create a life that hopefully would eventually allow for more flexibility and the opportunity to be present with my family—and with the kids we hoped to have one day. That clarity gave me the confidence to take a leap and rip the Band-Aid, and I’m grateful every day that I did.”
What started as a casual friendship evolved into a partnership and business called Bella Vita Hospitality. Mickey and Justin, together with Paul and an incredible team of business and culinary talent, set out to create an ecosystem of restaurants—both casual and full-service—and catering services, starting here in the South Bay.
“You often hear cautionary tales about mixing business with friendship, but I can genuinely say we got lucky,” says Justin. “We share the same core values: family, integrity, work ethic and a drive to constantly improve—not just for ourselves but for our team and the communities we work in. One philosophy we both believe in is the 1% rule: the idea of striving to be just 1% better every day.”
“It became clear to me very quickly that our relationship was strongest during the most challenging times, and that’s rare,” says Mickey. “I don’t want to speak for him, but I believe it comes from the deep respect we have for each other, both professionally and personally. I really feel like he’s part of my family.”
While the deli found its footing through the pandemic, Mickey and Justin sought a space for their first concept together—one that combined great food, a welcoming environment and a big emphasis on service and hospitality.
“Originally we developed an Italian concept, and we loved the Riviera Village,” Mickey shares. “When we found the space, it wasn’t the right fit for Italian. So we developed Vida based on what we thought would be a great fit for both the location and the neighborhood.”
Adds Justin, “We went all in on a modern Mexican concept, inspired by the flavors of Baja California with subtle nods to East L.A. taco carts and some creative
“My dad never pressured me to join the family business, but during that time—as we were making all these improvements—I saw a huge opportunity to continue growing the business.
I also felt a strong calling to carry on my grandfather’s legacy.”
fusions along the way.”
Building on that success, they opened Salt & Pearl when a space opened nearby and created an elevated seafood and steak restaurant accessible to everyone.
“Working with Vanrooy Design Group, we envisioned a room where Ernest Hemingway and Gatsby might host a cocktail party together, with The Old Man and the Sea providing the fresh catch. That’s the vibe we wanted: intimate, nostalgic and full of character,” explains Justin.
The cocktail program, created by beverage director Kenneth Gray, became the final layer. His reproofed cocktail program enhances the guest experience—a refined approach that starts with high-proof spirits and then slightly lowers the alcohol by volume (ABV) to create cocktails that are spirit-forward yet smooth and sessionable.
In a few short years, Bella Vita has assembled an amazing team of 100 employees across three restaurants, the catering division and the corporate team. Some have been part of the family for more than 30 years.
“There’s a good chance you’ve met our manager, Gonzalo. He started working here in 1990, which is the year I was born,” says Mickey. “I don’t know Mickey’s
Deli without Gonzalo. A big reason I want to continue growing our business is to give back to people like him, who have given so much to help us get to where we are.”
There’s also a new Mickey’s Deli location coming to South Bay in the near future.
As was a priority with both Mickey’s dad and grandfather, both partners still carve out quality time for their growing families. Justin and his wife, Elena, live with daughter Milana in Redondo, just a short drive to the restaurants, and keep Sundays sacred for family. Mickey and Bree are raising two daughters in South Redondo, not far from where he grew up.
“I feel strongly that this is the season of my life to put my head down and build both professionally and at home with my family,” he says. “I feel incredibly fortunate to come into work each day, spend time with my dad and continue building on my grandfather’s legacy. It’s something I’m extremely proud of.”
Paul knows none of this would be possible without the vision of one man. “My dad did this. He made it happen, and we carried on,” he says. “There was only one Michael Angelo ‘Mickey’ Mance—probably one of the brightest and kindest businessmen I’ve ever met in my life.” ■
TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS
Mergers and acquisitions attorney Edward Powell of Guzman Law Group helps family-owned businesses close the deal with confidence.
WRITTEN BY DARREN ELMS | PHOTOGRAPHED BY MARISA GUZMÁN-ALOIA
Aboutique firm built on community, collaboration and trust, Guzman Law Group understands the unique consulting needs of closely held businesses. For 30 years, their team of professionals has skillfully guided local business clients on transactional matters, estate planning, litigation, intellectual property and more. They actively serve a variety of industries, providing a particular focus on aerospace and defense, health care, real estate and entertainment companies.
Since joining Guzman Law Group in 2014, Edward Powell, a corporate, securities and finance attorney, has helped build a first-rate mergers and acquisitions practice in the South Bay, drawing on the firm’s breadth of experience in formulating creative, efficient and solid solutions for clients.
“Often our clients are family-owned businesses that have grown to the size that a sale to a larger company or private equity firm is advisable,” says Ed. “We educate the client on the benefits and risks of the deal, balancing the monetary reward with potential future liabilities that the seller accepts as part of the deal, and make commercially reasonable suggestions to reach a successful closing. Our goal is to ensure that the client understands the terms and is comfortable with any compromises or risks present in the transaction documents.”
Ed began his legal career as a banking lawyer in the ’90s during a transformational time for financial institutions. This resulted in exposure to a great variety of acquisitions, financings and securities
“... FORMULATING CREATIVE, EFFICIENT AND SOLID SOLUTIONS FOR OUR CLIENTS.”
offerings involving companies of all industries and sizes.
“My representation of businesses draws upon this experience every day in formulating creative, efficient and solid solutions for our clients,” he shares. “I remain calm through negotiations, ensuring that parties remain cordial and satisfied with the outcome after the closing.”
For family-owned businesses where the next generation is—and will remain— involved in the business, establishing a succession plan is crucial to ensuring that the next generation is positioned to take over. Here, Guzman Law Group can help the family maintain continuity for the company’s customers and create a culture that aligns the interests of family members with the success of the enterprise.
“When the family decides to sell rather than continue the business in the family, it is fundamental to have all the family members aligned in the sale and to allow company management to speak with one voice to potential buyers,” explains Ed. “Any differences of opinion should be settled behind the scenes and ideally well in advance of the sale process.”
Sellers of mid-size businesses can often maximize the value of the enterprise by
engaging an investment bank to run an auction process for the company. “We become involved early by prepping the company for sale, cleaning up the corporate books and ownership structure, and identifying contract and litigation issues to address,” notes Ed. “For auction sales, we prepare a data room with diligence materials and proposed transaction documents that interested bidders will review to inform their bids. The entire process is usually four to six months long. By running a competitive process, not only can you maximize the sale proceeds, but the deal terms themselves can be more reasonable than when entertaining only one offer.”
For Ed, practicing business law allows him to become an integral part of his client’s success. “Anticipating, acknowledging and addressing the interests of all the parties in a transaction not only protects my client’s legal interests, but also ensures that the business relationship is on sound footing and a positive experience for everyone.”
GUZMAN LAW GROUP, PC 111 N. SEPULVEDA BLVD., SUITE 250–22 MANHATTAN BEACH 310-321-6640 GUZMANLG.COM
Soffi’s Spotlight
@THESOUTHBAYCLUB’S SOFFI YESSMANN CELEBRATES PLAYFUL AND DELICIOUS SUNSET RITUALS—FROM CLASSIC BEACHSIDE HANGOUTS TO UNEXPECTED PAIRINGS. PHOTO
Naja’s Place
With oceanfront views on the Redondo Beach Pier, this laid-back dive bar is known for its impressive selection of over 80 beers on tap. With a relaxed vibe and live entertainment, it’s a favorite spot for locals. 154 International Boardwalk in Redondo Beach
Surf Food Stand
This feels like a hidden vacation spot right at home. With beachside tables set directly in the sand, you can sip a frozen lemonade with your toes in the surf. 4119 The Strand in Manhattan Beach
Perched on the Hermosa Beach Pier, you can sip a tropical cocktail while the sun sets over the Pacific. With ocean breezes and panoramic views, it’s an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy the golden hour. 11 Pier Avenue in Hermosa Beach
Flora Rooftop Bar & Lounge
Enjoy a tropical cocktail like the Sunset Paradise while watching the skyline shift atop the AC Hotel. This stylish spot offers panoramic views and a relaxed atmosphere—perfect for unwinding as the evening unfolds. 2130 E. Maple Avenue in El Segundo
Vista
Nelson’s
Located at Terranea Resort, the sunset becomes even sweeter with a s’mores kit around the firepit. As the sun dips below the horizon, you can roast marshmallows and indulge in this nostalgic treat while soaking in the breathtaking ocean views. 100 Terranea Way in Rancho Palos Verdes
Manhattan Beach Creamery
Grab their signature Cream’wich—a handcrafted ice cream sandwich that combines premium ice cream from their shop with artisan cookies from their family business, Katella Bakery. Introduced in 2012, the Cream’wich quickly became their most popular item, offering a nostalgic treat that locals and visitors alike enjoy. 1120 Manhattan Avenue in Manhattan Beach
Tony’s on the Pier
Sloopy’s Beach Cafe
Sloopy’s Beach Cafe is renowned for its rich, creamy specialty milkshakes, with favorites like strawberry shortcake, mango, peach and more. Just steps from the sand, it’s the perfect spot to grab a shake and stroll down to the beach to catch the sunset. 3416 Highland Avenue in Manhattan Beach
The Fire Chief at Old Tony’s is more than a cocktail—it’s a local legend. Served in a souvenir glass you get to keep, it’s the perfect companion for watching the sun dip below the horizon from the iconic crow’s nest. With 360º views and a salty breeze, there’s no better place to toast to the day. 210 Fisherman’s Wharf in Redondo Beach
Il Dolce Far Niente
AT NEW HERMOSA EATERY STECCA TAVERNA, THE SWEETEST PLEASURES ARE ENJOYED IN THE MOMENT.
Written by Kara Mickelson | Photographed by Jeff Berting
Recently opened on Pier Avenue in Hermosa Beach, Stecca Taverna transforms former Sosta Cucina into a vibrant community destination rooted in a love for Italy. Building on family heritage and over eight years
of travels to the country, James Meyer and Wimberly Meyer partnered with acclaimed Chef Giorgio Vizia to create a refined yet approachable dining experience that blends tradition, modernity and Italian hospitality.
Wimberly references their family’s mantra of “slowly … slowly,” a state of being they aspire to after many trips to Italy. “For us, it represents slowing down, looking around and enjoying life in the present moment,” she says.
The Meyers, longtime South Bay residents, drew inspiration from cherished memories of leisurely Italian meals shared with friends and family, both in Italy and at home. A prominent local architect, James oversaw the restaurant’s build-out, collaborating with Wimberly, founder of Front Porch Productions, to shape
“FOR US, IT REPRESENTS SLOWING DOWN, LOOKING AROUND AND ENJOYING LIFE IN THE PRESENT MOMENT.”
its creative vision and brand. From the light fixtures and tabletops to the reclaimed terra-cotta fireplace and place settings, each detail draws from their shared passion for Italian design and years of travels.
Chef Giorgio, whose heritage and family traditions shape the menu, grew up in Savona, Italy. As a child he would forage mushrooms for his mother, Francesca, a northern Italian cuisine trailblazer in the ’70s. “When the family was together cooking and eating, all the worries of life would go away,” he says.
His culinary roots run deep, from cooking with his parents in their family restaurant to learning from his grandmothers, Anna and Cesarina. He prepared meals for 800 people daily during military service—an experience he calls one of his life’s best. With a background in winemaking, enology and agro-technique, he prioritizes seasonal, high-quality ingredients and exceptional wine pairing.
The restaurant’s menu blends authenticity with innovation, fusing flavors from Piemonte and Liguria. Diners can expect dishes like crudo with fennel and grapefruit, grilled octopus inspired by the Ligurian coast, mushroom timbale, and gnocchi with truffles. Shareable small plates, piattini, and multicourse seasonal meals cater to both casual and sophisticated palates.
Chef Giorgio likens his culinary approach to a DJ, mixing flavors to elevate the experience. A delightful addition to the kitchen, Giorgio’s mother helped train staff to execute authentic “secret family recipes”—ensuring that every dish reflects passion, love and quality.
Housed in a former residential space, Stecca Taverna carries an “old soul” and naturally embodies the spirit of dining with friends at home. Doors open at 7 a.m. for morning coffee and again at 5 p.m. for an aperitivo and dinner.
Chef Giorgio, James and Wimberly envision the venue as a place for all occasions: a family dinner, a romantic date or even a professional gathering. “Stecca is the food, the ambience. Everything here has a story,” Giorgio says. “It’s intentional.” ■
• A state-of-the-art, turnkey audio and video recording and broadcasting system.
• Equipped with five mounted 4K PTZ cameras, high-quality microphones, and professionalgrade audio and video mixing.
• Features include three 85” 4K LED smart TVs for local playback and all necessary equipment for seamless recording or streaming to platforms like YouTube, Zoom, Vimeo, Teams, and more.
• Seating capacity for 30–50 attendees, depending on room arrangement.
• Access to a private lounge, break room, courtyard, and on-site restrooms.
• Catering available.
• Exclusive discounted rate at the Westdrift Hotel, just a five-minute walk from the facility.
“At SEIA, we specialize in serving ultra-high-networth individuals and families with the sophistication, discretion and strategic foresight required to manage complex financial lives. Our boutique advisory firm offers white-glove service and bespoke financial strategies, with a sharp focus on tax efficiency and multigenerational estate planning.”
– VINCE DILEVA, LEN HIRSH, ERIC PRITZ, SIGNATURE ESTATE & INVESTMENT ADVISORS, LLC
Financial Services
Peace of mind is something money can’t buy. But one way to keep anxiety at bay is to be smart with your money—with the help of a solid team of financial experts. The local wealth management professionals on the following pages can help you conquer today’s financial challenges and make smart decisions to meet your life goals.
70 SIGNATURE ESTATE & INVESTMENT ADVISORS, LLC VINCE DILEVA, LEN HIRSH & ERIC PRITZ
72 STUMPO SIKORSKI WEALTH MANAGEMENT
GINO STUMPO
74 SECOND 50 FINANCIAL, LLC
76 NAVIGOE WEALTH MANAGEMENT SCOTT LEONARD
EDITED BY LAURA L. WATTS
Signature Estate & Investment Advisors, LLC
Signature Estate & Investment Advisors, LLC® (SEIA) is an independent Registered Investment Advisory firm offering wealth management and financial planning services to affluent individuals, families and business owners. With a combined 50+ years of wealth management experience, managing senior partner Vince DiLeva, MS, CFP, AIF, senior partner Eric Pritz, CFP, and partner Len Hirsh, CFP, CPWA, MBA, AIF, are proud residents and supporters of the South Bay community. As personal financial concierges, the SEIA team provides guidance on a variety of financial, retirement, tax and insurance issues.
HOW DO YOU HELP CLIENTS BUILD A LEGACY?
When you’ve achieved significant wealth, your financial priorities evolve. It’s no longer just about accumulation—it’s about preservation, control and impact. Whether you’re navigating a liquidity event, expanding philanthropic efforts or ensuring your legacy endures for generations, our seasoned team delivers solutions that align with your vision and values.
WHY SHOULD POTENTIAL CLIENTS CHOOSE SEIA?
We specialize in the nuanced needs of clients—everything from pre-IPO planning to concentrated stock solutions to legacy philanthropy. We tailor the strategy to you, built around your life, your family and your future. Our in-house multidisciplinary team of professionals and external partners coordinate to deliver elite, integrated advice. And we operate with the highest levels of confidentiality, security and trust.
HOW DO YOU ASSIST CLIENTS IN PLANNING FOR THEIR LEGACY AND ESTATE?
Your wealth carries influence—both now and long after you’re gone. We help you design and implement estate plans that are not only tax-efficient but that uphold your legacy, protect your heirs and reflect your values. We act as both architects and stewards— guiding your estate plan through the complexities of changing laws, family dynamics and evolving financial priorities.
DESCRIBE SOME OF SEIA'S UNIQUE STRATEGIES.
Clients need advisors with the tools to address not only their unique life circumstances but also a range of market conditions. It’s important to incorporate assets that do not correlate to traditional equity and fixed-income assets. Consider investing in professional sports ownership, private debt and private equity. We can offer downside protection via a cap-and-cushion hedging approach using things like defined-outcome ETFs (exchange-traded funds), structured notes or option overlays. It all depends on a client’s goals and needs.
My Local List
Favorite Healthy Eats: Turquoise Restaurant
Favorite Coffee Shop: Offset Coffee
Favorite Gym: Redondo Beach Fitness
Favorite Steakhouse: The Arthur J
WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE FOR CLIENTS?
Taxes. For our clients, tax planning is not just about deductions— it’s about structure, timing and effectiveness. We go beyond the surface to architect sophisticated, forward-thinking strategies that address advanced income, capital gains and estate tax minimization; tax-efficient trust and entity structuring; executive compensation, stock options and liquidity events; and charitable giving. Our team leads and coordinates seamlessly with your legal, tax and family office professionals to ensure alignment across every decision.
DESCRIBE A CUSTOMIZED SOLUTION YOU PROVIDED. Recently, we worked with a Manhattan Beach client approaching retirement who had a classic challenge: a portfolio full of highly appreciated stock, no clear retirement vision and a complicated estate. We built a comprehensive strategy, helped them exit a burdensome property, created a living trust and tied in some intergenerational trust planning. It was a great reminder that true financial planning goes way beyond just investments—it’s about aligning every piece of life with peace of mind.
Disclaimer: All investments in securities carry risks, including the potential loss of principal. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and there is no guarantee that any specific investment will be profitable or suitable for a particular investor’s financial situation or risk tolerance. Asset allocation and diversification do not guarantee better performance or eliminate the risk of investment losses. Alternative investments may not suit all investors. They often engage in speculative investment practices that increase investment risk, are highly illiquid, lack periodic prices or valuation, and may not be subject to traditional investment regulatory requirements. They often have complex tax structures, significant lock-up periods with no liquidity or significant penalties for early liquidity, and significant management fees in addition to advisor fees. SEIA is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting, or tax services. We recommend that all investors seek out the services of competent professionals in any of the aforementioned areas. For more details on any professional designations listed, including description, minimum requirements, and ongoing education requirements, please contact (310) 712-2323 or visit seia.com/disclosures. SEIA is an SEC-registered investment adviser; however, such registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training and no inference to the contrary should be made. Securities offered through Signature Estate Securities, LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through SEIA, 2121 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 1600, Los Angeles, CA 90067, (310) 712-2323.
L to R: Tamara Patterson, Chelsea Traub, Kyle Demshki, Len Hirsh, Vince DiLeva, Eric Pritz, Jeff Zuanich, Stephanie Chow, Robert Green
Stumpo Sikorski Wealth Management
Gino Stumpo, CFP®, CRPC® | UBS Financial Services Inc.
Gino Stumpo is a financial advisor, portfolio manager and managing director of wealth management at Stumpo Sikorski Wealth Management at UBS Financial Services Inc. With 25 years of industry experience, his career has focused on serving a diverse range of clients, including high net worth individuals, first responders, associations and more. Gino and his team focus on personalized strategies to enhance clients’ financial well-being, specializing in comprehensive investments and retirement planning.
HOW DID YOU FALL IN LOVE WITH THE INDUSTRY?
I developed a passion for the finance industry during my college years as a finance major. After joining the finance club on campus, meeting guest speakers and peers and learning about the industry, my interest in finance transformed into a passion. I later secured an internship at Salomon Smith Barney, a pivotal move that launched my career. After earning my bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in investments, I began my career at PaineWebber, which was later acquired by UBS Financial Services Inc. Throughout this journey, my fascination with the industry has only grown, and I find new reasons to love what I do every day.
WHY DID YOU PURSUE A CAREER IN FINANCE?
My father spent decades working as an engineer before he was laid off in the early 1990s. To make ends meet, he found a part-time job at a hospital to support our family. Witnessing his challenges as he later faced retirement motivated me to pursue a career in wealth management. It inspired me to learn how to help others secure their benefits and transition to the next stage of their lives. I am incredibly proud of the work I do.
WHAT MAKES YOU STAND
OUT
IN YOUR INDUSTRY?
In a world dominated by digital interactions, I believe in the power of in-person meetings and the value of human connection when discussing a client’s financial portfolio. My approach goes beyond numbers; it's about understanding a client’s lifestyle, dreams and aspirations to align them with their financial goals.
WHAT IS A UNIQUE FEATURE OF YOUR PRACTICE?
Thanks to the dedicated efforts of my fellow financial advisor
Mark Sikorski, myself and our team, we have built a profound and lasting connection with first responders nationwide. We believe Mark’s previous experience as a police officer in the U.S. Air Force and the Los Angeles Police Department brings invaluable insights and trust to our team. We maintain lasting relationships with first responders by managing their financial portfolios, pensions and other benefits.
• Wealth Management • Financial Planning
Retirement Planning • Estate Planning Strategies
WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO PIECE OF ADVICE FOR NAVIGATING TRICKY FINANCIAL SITUATIONS?
Navigating a volatile market requires the expertise of seasoned financial advisors who have managed portfolio risk, particularly through multiple recessions. An asset allocation policy can minimize risk during severe market movements, and a professional advisor can help position investments to weather financial storms.
TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOURSELF THAT OTHERS MAY NOT KNOW.
For the past two years, I have practiced Brazilian jiu-jitsu and competed in several tournaments. I also find joy in volunteering with special needs children through my church and sponsoring local charities to give back to my community. I live in Newport Coast with my wife, Ana; our three children, Lucca, Nicco and Gianna; and our lovable Goldendoodle dog, Bentley.
Disclaimer: Gino Stumpo is a Financial Advisor with UBS Financial Services Inc. a subsidiary of UBS Group AG. Member FINRA/SIPC in 3030 Old Ranch Pkwy Suite 300 Seal Beach, CA 90740. The information contained in this article is not a solicitation to purchase or sell investments. Any information presented is general in nature and not intended to provide individually tailored investment advice. The strategies and/or investments referenced may not be suitable for all investors as the appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor’s individual circumstances and objectives. Investing involves risks and there is always the potential of losing money when you invest. The views expressed herein are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect the views of UBS Financial Services Inc. Neither UBS Financial Services Inc. nor its employees (including its Financial Advisors) provide tax or legal advice. You should consult with your legal counsel and/or your accountant or tax professional regarding the legal or tax implications of a particular suggestion, strategy or investment, including any estate planning strategies, before you invest or implement. As a firm providing wealth management services to clients, UBS Financial Services Inc. offers investment advisory services in its capacity as an SEC-registered investment adviser and brokerage services in its capacity as an SEC-registered broker-dealer. Investment advisory services and brokerage services are separate and distinct, differ in material ways and are governed by different laws and separate arrangements. It is important that you understand the ways in which we conduct business, and that you carefully read the agreements and disclosures that we provide to you about the products or services we offer. For more information, please review client relationship summary provided at ubs.com/relationshipsummary, or ask your UBS Financial Advisor for a copy. IS2500535. Exp.: 4/30/2026
Second 50 Financial, LLC
Second 50 Financial’s motto is “Wealth Management for Life’s Next Chapter.” The firm—cofounded in 2021 by Kathleen Adams and David Swift—guides clients through the important financial considerations in their second 50 years. The team offers personalized strategies designed to address clients’ evolving needs and long-term objectives.
HOW DO YOUR PROFESSIONAL PARTNERSHIPS ELEVATE WHAT YOU OFFER CLIENTS?
At Second 50 Financial, our independence allows us to partner with world-class investment firms—not product quotas. We build portfolios that go far beyond the traditional—incorporating private equity, real estate and alternative investments available to our clients through our strategic partnerships, which not every advisor has access to. For example, our clients benefit from strategic allocations due to opportunities with firms like Blue Owl Capital, Hillpointe and CIRE Equity, as well as participation in high-profile private equity deals including SpaceX, Databricks and Anthropic. These unique partnerships expand the investable universe, offering potential diversification, stronger risk management and access to the innovation driving the modern economy.
WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT STEP YOU TAKE TO UNDERSTAND THE UNIQUE NEEDS OF CLIENTS?
Our complimentary Second 50 Readiness Meeting is the first and most important step. It’s a focused conversation designed to uncover each client’s goals, lifestyle priorities and financial concerns. As part of this process, we create a personalized S50F Wealth Map to visually organize their financial life. This meeting lays the foundation for highly customized, forward-thinking strategies tailored to help clients align their wealth with purpose in their Second 50. It also gives us a chance to get to know each other and mutually determine if we’re a strong fit for a long-term partnership.
DESCRIBE A TIME YOU CUSTOMIZED A SOLUTION TO MEET THE SPECIFIC NEEDS OF A CLIENT.
One client faced the burden of managing appreciated rental properties but still needed steady income and flexibility. Through our partnership with Blue Owl, we facilitated a 1031 DST solution—allowing them to exchange real estate with tax efficiency, boost income and diversify into institutional-grade assets like data centers and distribution hubs through their unique UpReit structure. This strategy provided passive income, reduced management stress and allowed partial liquidity over time—transforming a rigid, low-basis real estate position into a professionally managed, income-generating, more flexible solution for their Second 50.
My Local List
Favorite Italian: Mangiamo Ristorante
Favorite Breakfast Burritos: Baran’s 2239
Favorite Mexican: El Sombrero
Favorite Butcher: Manhattan Market
HOW DO YOU ASSIST CLIENTS IN PLANNING FOR THEIR LEGACY AND ESTATE? WHAT CONSIDERATIONS DO YOU TAKE INTO ACCOUNT DURING
THIS PROCESS?
At Second 50 Financial, legacy planning begins only after we’ve ensured your wealth will fully support your lifestyle. We distinguish between investing for income and investing for impact—offering strategic guidance on tax-efficient wealth transfer, asset protection and charitable giving. This now also includes helping ensure digital asset protection and access (such as online bank accounts, emails, etc.) as an additional clause in the estate plan. We also explore “living legacy” strategies, allowing clients to enjoy the impact of their generosity during their lifetime. As the world changes, we have to keep adapting in ways we didn’t consider even 10 years ago.
HOW
DO YOU HELP CLIENTS AVOID MAKING RASH DECISIONS WITH THEIR MONEY?
For our clients nearing and in retirement, we always start with a clear distribution strategy—not just a diversified portfolio. Too many investors enter retirement focused on simply growing wealth vs. understanding how to use that wealth to provide income. At this stage, success depends less on beating the market and more on building a tax-smart, sustainable income plan. Map out where your withdrawals will come from, in what order and with what tax impact—before markets force your hand. Sequence of returns, tax-drag poor withdrawal planning and failure to account for living longer are often more dangerous than market volatility itself.
Disclaimer: All responses provided are for illustrative purposes only. Descriptions are not recommendations, solicitations, or offers for any investment advisory services or securities. No response is intended as personalized investment, tax or legal advice. Investing in private equity investments involves the risk of loss, including the risk of loss of principal, that clients should be prepared to bear. You are advised to consult with your independent investment, legal and/or tax advisers with respect to your individual financial situation and investment needs before considering any investment or financial strategy.
L to R: Charles Dickey, Katie O’Neill, Kathleen Adams, CFP®, CPWA®, RMA®, Lisa Morig, David Swift, CIMA®
Navigoe Wealth Management
Scott Leonard, Owner
Navigoe Wealth Management is a fee-only, fiduciary financial planning firm based in Redondo Beach. Founded by Scott Leonard in 1996, the firm specializes in comprehensive investment management, estate planning and tax planning services. Its team of Certified Financial Planner® professionals works closely with clients to design tailored investment strategies, estate planning and tax-efficient solutions, all with a focus on longterm prosperity and peace of mind.
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE QUOTE OR SAYING FOR NAVIGATING TRICKY FINANCIAL SITUATIONS?
“Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference.”
HOW DO YOU RELATE THAT SAYING TO WHAT YOU DO IN YOUR BUSINESS?
As a financial planner who has weathered numerous market cycles, I’ve found the saying perfectly encapsulates successful investing. Accept that you cannot predict or control market movements, have the courage to focus on what you can control (like your savings rate, asset allocation and investment costs), and develop the wisdom to know the difference between the two. When clients ask about market timing, I remind them that serenity comes from building a resilient, diversified portfolio aligned with their goals rather than attempting to outsmart unpredictable market forces that even the most sophisticated investors cannot consistently time correctly.
DO YOU EVER ENGAGE IN ANY MARKET TIMING?
We do not engage in market timing because decades of research show that consistently predicting short-term market movements is nearly impossible, even for professionals. Instead we focus on building a well-diversified, long-term investment strategy tailored toward our clients’ goals and spending priorities, which has proven to be a far more reliable path to financial success.
HOW ARE YOU HELPING CLIENTS DURING THESE VOLATILE MARKETS?
During times of heightened market volatility and uncertainty, we focus on maintaining a disciplined, long-term investment strategy tailored to clients’ unique specific goals and spending priorities, rather than reacting impulsively to short-term market swings. This includes regularly rebalancing the stocks in the portfolio to keep it aligned with the client’s objectives, considering opportunities such as tax-loss harvesting, and ensuring there is an adequate cash reserve to avoid the need to sell stocks in a downturn. We also provide ongoing communication and reassurance, helping
Highlights
• Intentionally Boutique
• Strategically Local
• Uniquely Personal
• Always Independent
our clients stay focused on their personal financial plan and make thoughtful, strategic decisions rather than knee-jerk ones.
WHAT DO YOU MEAN BY “SPENDING PRIORITIES?”
As a financial planner, I define “spending priorities” as a clear understanding of which expenses and life goals matter most to you and your family, both now and in the future. By focusing on these priorities, rather than relying upon a generic risk score and traditional portfolios—such as the ubiquitous 60/40 portfolio—you can make smarter investment decisions that are better aligned with your real needs, especially during volatile markets. This approach helps ensure your financial plan remains resilient and personally meaningful, no matter what the markets are doing.
IN ADDITION TO INVESTMENT STRATEGIES, WHAT ARE YOUR AREAS OF EXPERTISE?
Our areas of expertise include advanced tax planning and estate planning. We help clients minimize tax liabilities and maximize after-tax returns through proactive tax strategies while also ensuring their wealth is efficiently transferred to future generations in line with their wishes. By integrating these disciplines, we provide a comprehensive approach that protects and grows clients’ wealth over the long term.
HOW DO PROFESSIONAL PARTNERSHIPS ELEVATE WHAT YOU OFFER CLIENTS?
Professional partnerships are essential to the value we deliver, as we work closely with accountants and attorneys to ensure every aspect of your financial plan is coordinated and comprehensive. While we do not prepare tax returns or draft living trusts ourselves, we act as a professional coordinator—making sure your documents and strategies reflect our holistic approach to financial planning. This collaboration allows us to integrate advanced tax and estate planning seamlessly so your financial, legal and tax advisors are always working in concert to support your goals.
L to R: Eric Toya, CFP®, Courtney MacGregor, Jennifer Okamura-Albert, Mandi Leonard, Scott Leonard, CFP®
Full Circle
A PASSIONATE COMMUNITY EFFORT TRANSFORMS MANHATTAN BEACH’S ICONIC ROUNDHOUSE AQUARIUM INTO A MEANINGFUL FAMILY EXPERIENCE.
Written by Tanya Monaghan
At the end of the Manhattan Beach Pier stands a small, round building—simple in shape but extraordinary in spirit. The Roundhouse Aquarium is more than a charming piece of architecture; it’s a community jewel where the Pacific speaks to children, families and visitors from all walks of life.
Inside, little hands reach into tide pools, eyes widen at the dance of jellyfish, and lives quietly change. What many don’t realize is that this beloved space now carries within it a story of love—and has become a place where magic happens every day.
In 2015 that story gained new depth when Harrison Greenberg, a Manhattan Beach native who loved the ocean and science, tragically passed away at age 19. In the face of unimaginable loss, his parents, Wendy and Michael Greenberg, turned their grief into purpose.
“We wanted to do something wonderful in the community to honor our son and memorialize him, and also do something amazing for the community,” Michael says. “And we wanted to do something special on behalf of the Roundhouse.”
The Greenbergs, through the Harrison Greenberg Foundation, joined forces with the city of Manhattan Beach, Oceanographic Teaching Stations, Inc. (OTS) and local citizens to launch the Roundhouse Aquarium Beautification Project—a collaborative community effort that would transform the historic aquarium into a modern marine science education center.
The result, unveiled in 2018, reimagined the Roundhouse with immersive exhibits, touch tanks and cutting-edge educational programs. It remained free and open to the public, just as Harrison would have wanted. Today the Roundhouse welcomes more than 220,000 visitors annually, offering hands-on marine science experiences to over 20,000 students each year.
Harrison loved the ocean. He loved science. And as a child he loved the Roundhouse Aquarium. His mother Wendy recalls him marching down the pier one year to
the little aquarium perched above the sea.
“The kids were enamored with the touch tanks because the experience was so tactile and ‘hands on,’” Wendy shares. “The tanks were an annual rite of passage where one boy and one girl were selected to kiss the sea cucumber. And when it was Harrison’s year, he was the boy who kissed the sea cucumber.”
Thanks to ongoing support from donors and volunteers, the Roundhouse has been able to expand access and outreach, particularly to students from Title I and underserved schools. In 2024 alone over 10,000 of the students served came from low-income communities. Through traveling aquariums, virtual programs and field trips funded by donor dollars, students from Los Angeles and beyond—many visiting the beach for the first time—are discovering the world beneath the waves.
Executive director Grace Adams emphasizes the broader vision. “The ocean belongs to everyone, and the responsibility to protect it is shared by us all. Every small action, every educational opportunity brings us closer to a future where the ocean thrives.”
That mission was on full display at Splash, the Roundhouse Aquarium’s annual fundraising gala. Held on May 1 at the home of philanthropist and founding donor Ted Schwartz, this year’s event drew nearly 200 guests and raised vital funds to support the aquarium’s educational and outreach programs. Hosted by sports broadcaster Jaime Maggio and featuring special guest Jim Harbaugh, head coach of the Los Angeles Chargers, the evening buzzed with energy and generosity.
Notable attendees included Sugar Ray Leonard, Howie Mandel, Rickea Jackson, Brad Williams and Denise Austin, all showing up to champion ocean education and access for all. A touching moment came when Ted was presented with the Harrison Greenberg Legacy Award, honoring his longtime support and commitment to the Roundhouse’s mission. As a founding donor, he has exemplified the spirit of giving that fuels the aquarium’s success.
“The Splash event is a wonderful reminder of the incredible spirit of our South Bay community— people coming together to support something truly
meaningful,” says Robin Curren, executive director of the Harrison Greenberg Memorial Foundation. “As a fundraiser for the Roundhouse Aquarium, it highlights how important it is for us to help one another and invest in our local treasures. The South Bay is a special place because of its caring residents who believe in making a positive impact. Events like this not only raise vital funds but also strengthen bonds that make our community so resilient and inspiring.”
Volunteers remain a vital part of that impact, contributing thousands of hours each year through beach cleanups, educational support and outreach. “I love volunteering at the aquarium because it brings me pure joy,” says a team member, “mostly because of the joy I see in others when they come in.”
As much as the Roundhouse honors Harrison’s legacy, it also represents a collective achievement. “This was a community project,” emphasizes Michael. “We couldn’t have built this aquarium without the support of everyone—the city, the citizens of Manhattan Beach, OTS and the foundation. The Roundhouse belongs to the people of the South Bay, not to any one group.”
Today the Roundhouse is a thriving center of environmental education and a symbol of inclusivity.
Children from across Los Angeles County are not only learning about ocean ecosystems—they’re becoming stewards of the planet. In honoring Harrison, the community has built something that transcends loss: a place of healing, joy and connection.
Wendy gracefully echoed that sentiment in her speech at the Splash event. “Here we are 10 years later after losing our Harrison. We continue to embrace this precious Manhattan Beach Roundhouse in honor of him.
This state-of-the-art little aquarium has the integrity of a large marine exhibit—a true treasure to the South Bay and to our community in Manhattan Beach at the end of the pier, our special little haven for all of us to enjoy.”
And that haven continues to change lives.
To learn more about the Roundhouse Aquarium and the work of Oceanographic Teaching Stations, Inc., visit roundhouseaquarium.org. ■
THE GOLDEN HOUR
Celebrate the season with a little self-care at this local beauty hub.
WRITTEN
BY
LAURA L. WATTS | PHOTOGRAPHED
BY
SHANE O’DONNELL
Therese De Vos and the 505 Salon team of stylists
Summer is taking center stage in the South Bay … are your hair and skin ready? Gear up for sunny days and sizzling nights with a little TLC in the heart of Hermosa Beach.
Nestled in a bustling block along Pier Avenue is a cozy retreat full of familiar faces. No, it’s not the neighborhood pub. It’s 505 Salon—a bright, modern boutique where laid-back coastal vibes meet high-end style. The salon features an extensive menu of hair services: coloring techniques, extensions, Cezanne smoothing treatments, and cuts for women, men and kids.
Owner and beauty expert Therese De Vos has gathered a tapestry of skilled, friendly professionals who ensure that clients leave feeling cared for, heard and happy … and looking fantastic. These stylists are total pros— artists who stay ahead of trends and have decades of industry experience. As long-time South Bay residents, their passion makes every day special for each other and for clients.
Recognizing that gorgeous hair goes hand in hand with healthy, glowing skin, Therese and her teen daughter created an exclusive line of performance-driven products for all ages and skin types. Maie cosmetics are made in California using high-quality ingredients and sold online, at 505 Salon and at EM Skin Studio in Hermosa Beach.
The beauty brand’s flagship product is the Ultra Hydrating Face Mist, a convenient way to keep skin hydrated and soothed throughout the day. Other items include lip balm, a bronzer/blush compact, and accessories like makeup brushes, hair towels and satin eye masks.
“Maie is more than just a brand,” shares Therese, who looks forward to eventually sharing the business with her younger daughter as well. “It’s a celebration of minimalist beauty that fits seamlessly into everyday life, offering must-have staples that do it all.”
Whether you’re seeking simple hair and skin maintenance or an extravagant transformation, Therese and her talented team will work their magic for you in their upscale, inviting space. Open Monday through Saturday with plenty of parking, 505 Salon offers walk-in and last-minute appointments as well as reservations.
“We are so grateful for all of our loyal clients and also love to see new faces in the salon,” Therese says. “If you are in our area, please stop by and say hi. We love to help our clients feel their very best.”
505
Therese and her daughters
Rainbow Connection
THREE ORIGINAL PARTICIPANTS OF HERMOSA BEACH PRIDE REFLECT ON THE EVENT’S IMPACT ON THE COMMUNITY, FIVE YEARS AND COUNTING.
Interviewed by Darren Elms | Photographed by Monica Orozco
HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN HERMOSA PRIDE?
Randy Renner: It all started over coffee at Java Man with a group of passionate locals from Hermosa’s LGBTQ+ community. We were talking about how vibrant and supportive Hermosa is—packed with LGBTQ+ residents and allies—and suddenly it just clicked: Why not bring Pride to Hermosa Beach?
Katie Vernon: I was part of the original group that painted the lifeguard tower. I had just moved to Hermosa Beach and was interested in meeting people. The Pride group was the first of many groups that welcomed me.
Izzy Bacallao: My involvement began shortly after a rainbow lifeguard tower in Long Beach was burned down in an arson attack in 2021. I had been so upset to see something so hateful happen so close to home, and instead of sitting on the anger, I decided to do something about it. I knew very little about getting permission to paint city property rainbow, let alone how to get enough people to help paint it. But as I reached out for support, I learned quickly that I wasn’t alone.
HOW HAS IT EVOLVED SINCE ITS INCEPTION?
RR: Since day one, we’ve been growing fast and doing our best to learn from prior years and listening to what our members want. We secured all of our nonprofit accreditations, expanded our powerhouse leadership team and evolved into a multiday event every June. On top of that, we’ve added extra meetups throughout the year to keep the energy going and the community connected.
HOW HAS THE LOCAL COMMUNITY COME TOGETHER TO SHOW SUPPORT?
IB: The generosity of this community cannot be overstated. It has been amazing to see how much people and businesses are willing to give—be it time, space, money, quite literally everything—to help Hermosa Pride reach new heights each year. I’ve been especially excited to see so many businesses and groups helping facilitate Pride events outside of June.
RR: The locals show up in full support. Hermosa might be one of the only Pride events where there are just as many allies as LGBTQ+ folks showing up in full force. The families that walk with us and wave their flags are such a beautiful visual to me. I wish my 10-year-old self would have gotten to see that in small-town Texas.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT THAT A SMALLER COMMUNITY LIKE HERMOSA HAVE ITS OWN PRIDE AND OUTREACH?
RR: The most common question we have gotten over the years is: Why is it called Hermosa Beach Pride and not South Bay Pride? The reason: Hermosa Beach has shown incredible, unwavering support for the LGBTQ+ community. It’s the gold standard for what true support looks like, and we felt like we could set an example for every town to create a group to socialize, feel welcome and help advocate for our community.
KV: Small towns have a unique sense of community, and Hermosa is no different. Our community is small but strong, and we continue to welcome anyone who enters the city limits and wants to meet with us, socialize, eat and exchange ideas. ■
Some Pig
MEET THE NOTORIOUS P.I.G. OF EL PORTO.
Written by Tanya Monaghan | Photographed by Ken Pagliaro
In the laid-back beachside enclave of El Porto, known more for surf breaks and sleepy cafés than spectacles, there’s one local resident who commands the boardwalk like royalty. At 150 pounds and outfitted with a leash and undeniable charisma, Piggy Smalls—the pot-bellied pig with a rapper’s namesake—has become something of a legend.
“He was always gonna be Piggy Smalls,” says owner Rian Basilio, a musician, visual artist, photographer and longtime El Porto resident. “The name was ready before the pig was even born.”
Rian’s path to pig parenthood is as unconventional as the pet itself. A native of Hawaii, he moved to
Downtown Los Angeles after studying and pursuing music in San Diego.
“Back then, I was living in this massive, 2,000-square-foot loft in the Arts District, rehearsing with my reggae band, doing photo shoots. It felt like that scene in Big with Tom Hanks,” he recalls.
But the grind of downtown started to wear on him. One fateful day, he visited a girl he’d met during a music video shoot. “I skated The Strand by day and listened to music all night. I was like, ‘What am I doing living in Downtown L.A.?’”
Soon after, he traded the concrete jungle for the beachy charm of El Porto.
Amanda Lee, who Rian met a few years later in 2015, had her own rooted ties to the community. A yoga teacher originally from Martha’s Vineyard, she had been working in local studios and bartending at spots like the former Café Boogaloo (now Atta Girl) in Hermosa Beach.
“She was already plugged in to the scene here,” Rian says. “I was still traveling a lot with music, so I hadn’t really gotten grounded. Meeting her changed that.”
Their connection was instant—and a little surreal. On their very first date, the subject of pets came up. “She asked what animal I’d want if I could have anything,” Rian recalls. “I joked about a tiger, but then said I’d always wanted a pot-bellied pig. Her jaw dropped. She pulled out her phone and started showing me all these pig adoption sites. She had already been actively looking for one.”
Amanda told Rian right then and there, “You are my soulmate.” She had even been apartment hunting based on whether a landlord would allow a pig.
“It was like fate,” Rian laughs. “We were both already on the pig path—we just didn’t know we were gonna walk it together.”
That winter, they welcomed a tiny, 9-pound piglet into their home. Born on October 12, 2015—the day before Rian’s birthday—Piggy Smalls flew in from Northern California and into a beach shack that would soon become his kingdom. The couple’s home, one of the original houses in El Porto, is the kind of quirky, lived-in place that fits perfectly into the neighborhood’s surfer soul.
Piggy Smalls wasted no time making himself at home. “He was litter box-trained within a month,” says Rian. “He was crate-trained, but one day we came home, and he wasn’t in the crate. We found him under the covers in our bed.”
From that day on, Piggy slept with them for the next four years—leaping up onto the bed like a dog, snuggling between them like a baby. As Piggy grew, so did his reputation.
The attention came fast and furious. “People would line up on The Strand to pet him,” Rian recalls. “I’ve seen car accidents from people gawking at him. It’s wild.”
Between Rian’s gigs and Amanda’s yoga practice,
“HE’S KIND OF LIKE THE MAYOR OF EL PORTO. EVERYBODY KNOWS HIM. HE BRINGS SMILES WHEREVER HE GOES.”
they built their lives around creativity and community. Together they also co-founded Kuleana Holistic Health, a clinic with a focus on traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture. Located in the heart of Hermosa Beach, Kuleana offers various revitalizing medical, wellness and beauty services.
But Piggy remains their most beloved collaboration. In the house, he is a mix of cat and toddler—the couple had to babyproof everything.
“He opens drawers with his snout, gets into bags and has started figuring out zippers,” Rian says. “He’s too smart for his own good. We’ve got locks on the fridge and cabinets. He knows exactly where we keep the vegetables.”
Now nearing 10 years old, Piggy lives a structured life. He walks daily with Rian through the neighborhood—greeting locals, sniffing out treats in grassy patches and posing for the endless stream of social media photos. “He’s kind of like the mayor of El Porto,” shares Rian. “Everybody knows him. He brings smiles wherever he goes.”
As for what’s next? “If we had land, we’d have a pig rescue,” Rian laughs. “I still want to use all those names—Snoop Hog, 2Pork, Pjörk. But for now, it’s Piggy Smalls running the show.” ■
Professional Calligraphy Artist www.SignsOfOurLives.com
Instagram: @SignsOfOurLives
Beautifying Spaces & Providing Live Personalization Experiences
From calligraphed Casa Dragones tequila labels to engraved Clinique jars --
Alex Hirsch of Signs of our Lives customizes it all. No surface is safe from getting personalized by hand –glass, metal, leather, textiles, and more. She offers hand engraving, pointed pen calligraphy, heat foiling, painting, and wood burning.
Alex primarily offers her calligraphy on site at brand activations and PR/influencer events, creating a unique and memorable experiences for guests and VIP clients.
She also beautifies community spaces and small business with hand lettered signage and hand painted murals. You may have seen her work at your nearest Sweetgreen!
Looking for a professional artist for your event or business in Los Angeles, San Diego, or beyond? Connect with Alex via email or via the contact form on her website.
“Hermosa Beach is a warm, walkable town with beachside charm and a sense of belonging,” says Tania Kvakic, a Hermosa resident for the past six years and a financial advisor with RBC Wealth Management. For almost two decades she has helped individuals and families in the South Bay and beyond build, preserve and transition wealth with personalized, values-driven strategies. Tania always leads with her heart, and her wide circle of local friends and clients keeps her connected to the heart of the community. Here are some of her favorite Hermosa Beach locations.
Cozy Moments
Lana at The Green Store makes every visit feel like home. Her warmth creates a welcoming vibe. I love grabbing a coffee and sandwich; it’s my go-to for a cozy moment and a sense of community.
Favorite Shop
Whether it’s a quick bite or a thoughtful gift, Gum Tree always delivers. It’s a favorite for casual meetings. I love the charming atmosphere, great food and perfect local vibe.
Fantastic Food
The Hook & Plow is a great casual spot to grab a bite with friends. I especially love the patio—perfect for people-watching, and Bentleyfriendly too! (Tania’s Bernedoodle!)
Self-Care Solution
The Solution is my wellness lifesaver! I stop in monthly for my vitamin IVs. It’s convenient, impeccably clean and so relaxing. It’s just steps away, which makes it an easy part of my self-care routine.
Wellness Routine
The Pilates Room is my personal sanctuary. I do reformer workouts with Athena and enjoy the amazing group classes. It’s not just fitness; it’s a beautiful tribe of strong, supportive women.
Southbay’s Spring Fling
In celebration of our first two issues of the year, our magazine gathered friends and supporters for cocktails and small bites in the courtyard of Shade Hotel Manhattan Beach. Guests generously donated Mother’s Day items to support patients of Cancer Support Community South Bay. Raffle prizes came courtesy of Manhattan Denim, The NOW Massage and zinc@shade. Special thanks to musician Nick Shattuck, Elizabeth Grace Floral, Niche + Novel and Signs of our Lives.
PHOTOGRAPHED
Recognizing the Class of 2025
Congratulations to the 12 graduating high school seniors from the NOVAS of Torrance Memorial Medical Center. Collectively they contributed over 10,000 service hours to support patients and staff, including treating them to thousands of baked goods items along with care packages.
Go Wild for the Peninsula Campaign
The Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy celebrated the success of the $30 million Go Wild for the Peninsula campaign to create a new 96-acre wildlife corridor connecting coastal land to the contiguous Palos Verdes Nature Preserve. At a gathering hosted by co-chairs Steve Tight and Chris Tight, major campaign supporters raised a glass to toast this remarkable achievement in natural land preservation.
L to R: Madison Hironaka, Rylee Woodward, Trinity McKenny, Mia Constantino, Emma Pusavat, Jacob Ma, Kelly Hironaka, Nicole Huang, Gianna Villa, Jason Lee, Aaron Monzon, Daniel Huang
PHOTOGRAPHED
John Cruikshank, Adrienne Mohan, Mayor David Bradley
Steve Tight and Chris Tight
Grace Wallace, Randy Ross, Danise Hollway, Eda Van Dyk, Christina Wainwright
How Women Are Shaping the Creator Economy
In honor of Women’s History Month, Emergent Media hosted a panel of inspiring and accomplished business leaders at Team One. Attendees heard firsthand how these women are shaping the creator economy, pursuing their passions and molding incredible communities in the process.
Heritage Hoedown
Peninsula Heritage School’s annual spring GALA raised funds for five independent schools completely burned by the recent wildfires. Parent co-chairs Devon Hennessey Smith and Anna Perry, assisted by Hayley Tumanjan and Ashley Carlin, designed a cowboy-themed event with live band, three-course dinner, and silent and live auction. Attendees’ enthusiasm for donating to the impacted schools was evident by their generosity.
Steve Edo, Pedro Jimenez, Dr. Cindy Chun, Joan Behrens
Katy Tucker, Shaun Tucker, Andrew Werts
Michelle Cobb, Jason Cobb, David Glassman, Roni Glassman
Paul Hennessey, Jennifer Hennessey, Devon Hennessey Smith, Erik Smith
Big Waves, Big Vision
IN THE DOME AT COSM, PHOTOGRAPHER BO BRIDGES SURROUNDS SPECTATORS WITH HIS WORK.
Written by Tanya Monaghan
Photographed by Bo Bridges
Bo Bridges doesn’t just shoot iconic images; he immerses himself in them. Whether he’s chest-deep in a Tahitian reef break, hovering above a snowboarder mid-flight or riding his beach cruiser along The Strand in Hermosa Beach, Bo brings an intensity and intimacy to visual storytelling that’s unmistakably his own.
It’s late morning in Manhattan Beach, and Bo is sitting in his freshly remodeled gallery—a place that feels more like an artful clubhouse than a commercial workspace. Just home from a shoot, he discusses Big Wave, his latest immersive film project for Cosm, a state-of-the-art domed theater experience. It’s a firstof-its-kind cinematic dive into the power and poetry of massive surf.
“I’ve always loved the challenge of trying something new,” Bo says, leaning back with the ease of someone who’s just returned from riding 40-foot walls of water. “But shooting for a dome theater? That was a whole new frontier.”
Long before he was a fixture of the South Bay creative scene, Bo was zigzagging the globe, photographing extreme snow sports for clients like ESPN and Sports Illustrated. Originally from Vail, Colorado, he moved to Hermosa Beach in 2001, drawn by the promise of waves, light and proximity to LAX.
“I kept coming through here on layovers between shoots in Japan, New Zealand, Australia,” he recalls. “I’d take these little surf detours in Malibu or Venice.
Eventually I thought, ‘Why not just live here?’”
He and his wife, Susan, rented an apartment across the street from Martha’s 22nd Street Grill. “I remember riding my beach cruiser down The Strand thinking, ‘This is it!’” he recalls. “But I was hesitant at first. Back then it felt like no one worked. I’d ride past Sharkeez on a Tuesday at 2 p.m., and it was packed!”
Despite the laid-back coastal vibe, Bo stayed grounded, building a career that straddled sports, commercial and fine art photography. He opened a small studio near the Hermosa Beach Pier and hung a few big-wave shots in the window. Locals started walking in, asking to buy prints. The gallery side of his business was born. Fast-forward to 2024, and Bo found himself invited to the NBA All-Star Game in Utah—an unexpected catalyst for his most ambitious project yet. After-party serendipity led him to Cosm’s immersive Dome, where 360º visuals wrapped above and around viewers like a digital planetarium.
“I walked in and thought, ‘We need to shoot big waves for this. Surfing, snowboarding—stuff with real movement and power,’” he says.
The Dome itself is no small venue. Part of the Cosm experience in Los Angeles, Dallas and soon Atlanta, the screen inside The Dome is a staggering 87 feet in diameter with 12K resolution.
Bo pitched a concept: a surf film that would harness The Dome’s massive scope, giving audiences the sensation of being inside the wave. Cosm was all in. What followed was a global scramble to chase the biggest swells on earth—from Nazaré in Portugal and Jaws in Hawaii to the remote reef breaks of Tahiti. But nothing went quite as planned.
“We’d get all our gear to Portugal, and then the wind would shift. Jaws didn’t break the way we hoped. Everything was a gamble. We had no playbook,” he says. “We spent about a year and a half chasing swells around the world—Fiji, Nazaré, Maui, Mavericks—and dialed in on Teahupo’o, Tahiti, as the heart of the story. That place just has this otherworldly beauty and power.”
To make matters trickier, The Dome required entirely new gear and shooting formats. “There’s no camera
in the world made for that field of view,” Bo explains. “We had to build custom housings, stitch footage, figure out stabilization on jet skis. It was like R&D on the fly—no YouTube tutorial to lean on.”
What began as an abstract “eye candy” surf film took a human turn when Bo met Heimiti Fierro—a 20-yearold Tahitian surfer with fearless energy and raw grace. Though she had never attempted a tow-in wave, her poise impressed Bo. He began filming her journey, not realizing she would become the emotional center of the film.
“She gets hammered on her first wave, watches someone nearly drown right in front of her and still chooses to go back out,” he says. “That moment gave us our arc. She wasn’t just a surfer. She was a symbol of courage.”
Heimiti’s scenes—including a mesmerizing fire dance she choreographed and performed herself—give Big Wave its soul. “She told me later, ‘I grew up doing this.’ And I’m like, ‘You’re just telling me this now?’” Bo laughs. “She brought this elemental power—water and fire. It was magic.”
Though Bo has spent much of his life documenting other people’s heroics, Big Wave is also a family affair. His kids make a surprise cameo, and his parents walked the red carpet at the premiere.
He’s quick to credit his community too. “This place—Hermosa, Manhattan—it’s not just where I live. It’s where I get inspired. I’ll shoot in Tahiti, Hawaii or Portugal, but I come home and ride The Strand with my kids. That’s what fills me up.”
While the surf is Bo’s first love, snow is where he started. The next Dome film will be shot entirely on snow-covered peaks. “I’m already watching the weather patterns,” he says. “Snowboarding, skiing—it’ll be the same immersive experience but in a totally different element. There’s so much more we can do.”
As for Big Wave, it’s not just a film—it’s an invitation into something visceral, risky and beautiful. For Bo, it’s one more way of sharing the world he sees.
“I’ve seen it more times than I can count, and each time from a new spot—it feels like a totally new film,” he says. “There’s just that much to take in.” ■
BETTER SPACE
A MANHATTAN BEACH FAMILY CHOOSES QUALITY OVER QUANTITY WHEN RENOVATING THEIR LONGTIME RESIDENCE.
Written by Darren Elms | Photographed by Lauren Taylor & Amy Bartlam
When Cailin and Paulo Goncalves found their Marine Avenue home off-market, they could tell it needed a little TLC. “We just knew it had great bones with thoughtful touches throughout,” says Cailin. “Most notably, we were enamored with all the natural light that pours in.”
Their family lived in the home for many years before they decided to rebuild. Time gave them an opportunity to truly live in every square inch and consider what they would want to change or improve. Paulo, who grew up in Portugal, craved the relaxed yet refined feel of beach homes from his youth.
“Ultimately our goal was to build a modern beach home with an open floor plan—one that celebrates natural light and invites the outdoors in,” explains Cailin. “We wanted to feature oversized windows, skylights and edge-to-edge sliding glass doors to maximize the beautiful natural light and deliver a seamless indoor-to-outdoor transition. This was at the center of our rebuild.”
The couple collaborated with AAHA Studio to realize the project. “As creatives themselves, with backgrounds in advertising and publishing, [Cailin and Paulo] had a strong aesthetic vision and were looking for a team that could bring it to life while balancing design with function,” says founder and architect Harper Halprin, who partnered with husband and fellow architect Aaron Leshtz and interior design project manager Lisa Ljevaja. “Aesthetically they were drawn to a mix of Scandinavian simplicity and mid-century warmth with a coastal, modern-day feel that felt right at home by the beach.”
Knowing how important the environmental surroundings were to the owners, Harper and Aaron conducted a comprehensive light study to optimize natural light throughout the home, thoughtfully accounting for the ocean breezes the home enjoys being so close to the water. After multiple discussions, the team decided to
“WITH LARGE SLIDING GLASS DOORS THAT FULLY POCKET, WE GET THAT SEAMLESS INDOOR-OUTDOOR FLOW WE DREAMED OF. IT’S THE PERFECT PLACE TO RELAX AND SPEND QUALITY TIME AS A FAMILY.”
keep the original footprint and adjust the current bones to better suit the family’s lifestyle and needs.
“It was an exercise in restraint, something that many homeowners in today’s market aren’t up for,” says Harper. “The mantra of the day often seems to be ‘bigger’ or ‘more space,’ but in this case it wasn’t either of those. The goal was just better space.”
Executed by Matt Ehrhard from Ehrhard Building Company and Rob Jones of Jones Landscapes, the renovation took about a year to complete. The exterior of the home was wrapped in sustainably sourced Western red cedar, ensuring the cladding would hold up for decades against the sometimes harsh coastal conditions of the area while creating a patina and character with age.
Interiors were opened to maximize natural light and extend the living spaces outside. Other elements enhance the sense of space—like vaulted ceilings, hallway transoms and oversized skylights–giving the home a light-filled, larger-than-life presence.
The ADU, added above the garage, enjoys its own distinct yet complementary vibe. The flexible space offers a modern, clean aesthetic and creative retreat for the family—just removed enough to feel like a separate world but still very much a part of the home’s overall design story.
Cailin says it’s hard to choose a favorite room in the new home. “It’s probably a tie between our open, clean kitchen and the outdoor living area. The kitchen gets absolutely flooded with natural light and really feels like the heart of the home. But the outdoor space is just as special. With large sliding glass doors that fully pocket, we get that seamless indoor-outdoor flow we dreamed of. It’s the perfect place to relax and spend quality time as a family.” ■
“Since 1984, we’ve redefined Los Angeles real estate, combining family values with unmatched excellence.”
– JAMES SANDERS, DIANE SANDERS, JOHN SANDERS ESTATE PROPERTIES INTERNATIONAL
Real Estate PROFILES
Buying or selling a home can be a roller-coaster ride. It is crucial to have a capable, experienced, trustworthy professional by your side. Here we share our annual real estate profiles section, showcasing some of the most accomplished professionals of the South Bay. Whether you are merely seeking advice about your property or you are ready to initiate a transaction, the pros you see on the following pages welcome an opportunity to offer assistance.
110 ESTATE PROPERTIES INTERNATIONAL JAMES SANDERS, DIANE SANDERS & JOHN SANDERS
112 ALISON CLAY-DUBOFF SALTY WATER PROPERTIES
114 CHARLES FISHER FISHER REAL ESTATE | ESTATE PROPERTIES
116 BRITTNY BURFORD BURFORD BEACH HOMES | ESTATE PROPERTIES
118 JANE SAGER ESTATE PROPERTIES
120 DAVID KELLER & TEAM ESTATE PROPERTIES
122 THE KONDO GROUP | COMPASS TADASHI KONDO
124 HARBOR LIGHTS ESCROW MARY FUJISAKI
126 TERRY NIEMANN TERRANEA REAL ESTATE
128 JOHANNES STEINBECK STEINBECK HOMES | ESTATE PROPERTIES
129 SANDY BRUCE ESTATE PROPERTIES
130 ANNE BOBEK ANNE BOBEK REAL ESTATE | ESTATE PROPERTIES
131 DARREN PUJALET PUJALET REAL ESTATE | ESTATE PROPERTIES
132 GAYLE PROBST ESTATE PROPERTIES
EDITED BY LAURA L. WATTS
133 KELLY EVANS & LAURA MEDINA KELLY & LAURA | ESTATE PROPERTIES
134 LYNN LORD ESTATE PROPERTIES
135 GABRIELLE HERENDEEN GO GABBY TEAM | ESTATE PROPERTIES
136 DEVRA ZANDELL ZANDELL REAL ESTATE GROUP | ESTATE PROPERTIES
138 NICK BURDIAK VISTA | SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
Estate Properties International
James Sanders, Diane Sanders & John Sanders, Owners
Estate Properties International is a luxury real estate brokerage headquartered in Los Angeles. With 42 years in the real estate business, the company is dedicated to agent empowerment, client satisfaction and global excellence. The firm boasts $123 billion in total sales volume from over 200,000 transactions. The Sanders family launched its first real estate brokerage in 1984, spearheaded by their founder and mother, Sandra Sanders. Siblings John, Diane and James joined the brokerage in 1989. Previously affiliated with a national brand, the Sanders family made a bold move on January 7, 2025, founding Estate Properties as the largest independent brokerage in the South Bay.
WHAT MAKES YOUR FIRM STAND OUT?
Estate Properties is driven by a commitment to empower agents. We've built a state-of-the-art video production studio that our agents can use for self-promotion.
WHAT IS YOUR PROFESSIONAL SUPERPOWER?
Our superpower is simple: We care—we care a lot. What gets us out of bed in the morning is helping agents succeed. As our mother taught us: “You get up. You dress up. You show up. No matter what.”
WHAT DO YOUR AGENTS LIKE BEST ABOUT YOUR COMPANY?
If you ask our agents what they love most about Estate Properties, they'll tell you, “It feels like family.” We foster a family environment every day—at every event, meeting and training. Our agents feel loved, supported and safe. There is always someone available to help.
WHAT DO YOU CREDIT FOR YOUR SUCCESS?
Our culture. Our agents are thriving—and they're having fun doing it. We host ongoing events, team-building activities, networking, parties and awards celebrations to foster connection and collaboration. We are committed to ensuring that our agents feel supported and empowered.
HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW THIS AREA?
John, James and Diane were all born in Texas but moved to the South Bay at young age. We grew up here, attended local schools and raised our families—and now grandchildren—here. We know every street in every city.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR APPROACH?
Our agents are the foundation of everything we do. When they succeed, our clients benefit. Every decision we make supports that mission.
• In-house Legal Department
• Advanced Technology Solutions
• In-house Marketing Department
• Comprehensive Training & Support
TELL US ABOUT THE REBRAND OF THE COMPANY.
The launch of Estate Properties is about more than a name change—it’s a commitment to elevating how we do business. Independence gives us the flexibility to innovate and adapt, ensuring that our agents and clients thrive in today’s dynamic market.
DO YOU HAVE PROFESSIONAL PARTNERSHIPS?
Yes. Estate Properties collaborates with trusted leaders like Peninsula Escrow, Progressive Title, CB Loans, Bichlmeier Insurance and Movement Mortgage. These partnerships streamline transactions and provide customized solutions, ensuring a seamless experience for agents and clients.
HOW DO YOU PROVIDE GLOBAL EXPOSURE FOR YOUR AGENTS AND CLIENTS?
Our exclusive global partnerships unlock boundless opportunities, connecting clients and agents to elite real estate markets worldwide. We are proud members of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World, a network that links us to over 550 companies, 140,000 agents and 4,900 offices in more than 70 countries.
WHAT DO YOU HAVE IN THE LUXURY SPACE?
Luxury Portfolio International is the premier platform for luxury real estate professionals. Utilizing the robust suite of marketing tools, properties receive global exposure through print and over 20 syndicated websites. Luxury is our business.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR ESTATE PROPERTIES?
James Sanders: Estate Properties is excited to begin this new chapter by investing in our community and expanding into new markets. Through local advertising, philanthropy and innovative client experiences, we are setting a new standard for excellence. For over 40 years, we’ve delivered results that speak for themselves. Now, we’re taking the next step—empowering agents, elevating clients and redefining leadership in luxury real estate.
Estate Properties team at the Redondo Beach office, L to R: Back – Pete Warren, John Sanders, James Sanders, Clara Baum
Alison Clay-Duboff has worked in real estate for 20 years and operates Salty Water Properties as part of Estate Properties in Manhattan Beach. She grew up in Southern California, attended the American University in Paris for two years and then graduated from George Washington University with a degree in radio-television broadcasting. Alison has lived in the United Kingdom, St. Barts, France, Sweden and Saudi Arabia.
WHAT ARE SOME THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING A REALTOR?
It is important to select the requirements most significant to you when selecting representation on what may be the largest monetary and emotionally impactful commitment in your life. Is it response time? Market knowledge? A mirrored communication style? Advanced education? Acute negotiating skills?
TELL US ABOUT YOUR CLIENTS.
I represent buyers, sellers and investors in residential real estate throughout El Segundo, Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, Redondo Beach, Torrance and the Palos Verdes Peninsula. My clients include high net worth individuals, first-time and step-up buyers, downsizers, military families, trust representatives, retirees and everyone in between. My repeat and referral business shows that I have been successful in my chosen profession of real estate.
WHAT DO YOUR CLIENTS LOVE ABOUT PUTTING YOUR EXPERTISE TO WORK FOR THEM?
My creative and out-of-the-box marketing campaigns sell properties of every price point. My special brand of marketing is known worldwide. I dedicate my efforts equally—from the smallest of homes to the largest of luxury properties. With me, the relationship doesn’t end at the close of escrow. It is just a beginning.
DESCRIBE YOUR IDEAL CLIENT.
My ideal client is one who requires my brand of professionalism, understands my experience and knowledge, and allows me to be the shoulder they may not be aware they need.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR SIDE GIG AS A PUBLIC SPEAKER. I am flattered to be held in high regard by my peers, clients and colleagues and to have been featured as a public speaker, moderator, keynote speaker, motivational kickoff speaker and published author. I have shared my real estate philosophy throughout the United States, France, Italy and Japan. One of my crowning achievements was being on the main stage at Disneyland Paris, motivating and educating more than 550 Realtors and brokerowners from across France and Canada.
My Local List
Favorite Steakhouse: The Arthur J
Favorite Spa: The Spa at Terranea
Favorite Ahi Tuna Sandwich: Turquoise
Favorite Vet: VCA Hermosa Animal Hospital
WHY ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT REAL ESTATE?
I maintain that real estate is and will always be a contact sport requiring hands-on, interpersonal engagement to be able to cross the finish line of my clients’ goals—be it the sale of their home (including all of the emotions that accompany such a transaction), the purchase of a principal residence (equally emotion-filled) or investment property acquisitions.
WHAT IS THE KEY TO BUILDING AND GROWING CLIENT RELATIONSHIPS?
The words are diminished by overuse, but communication, honesty and transparency are the building blocks to deep, effective, lasting business relationships.
IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU STAND OUT AS A REALTOR?
I listen to my clients’ lifestyle and real estate goals, analyze the viability of those goals, and try to fulfill those goals or guide clients in a direction that will benefit their present and future goals. My marketing creatively paints an engaging story of my clients’ properties to present their unique qualities and target the appropriate buyer’s market. Being my own multilevel marketing company is the best way I can serve my clients.
SPEAK ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNITY. Betterment of my community and larger global concerns are woven into my work—not simply by financial donations to various charities but by hands-on volunteering. Being a deeply caring individual and neighbor proffers boundless rewards. Being immersed in our local neighborhoods and being a passionate force by volunteering have not only enmeshed me in the real estate psyche of the South Bay but have developed my reputation as a trusted neighbor, friend and beacon of hope. I’m always ready with an open heart, a willing hand and time to share with those who need me. My years of living in the South Bay have passed in a flash; I am beyond humbled by the impact I’ve made on these communities I’ve served.
Charles Fisher
Realtor®, Fisher Real Estate | Estate Properties
Fisher Real Estate with Estate Properties is a full-service real estate company owned by Realtor Charles Fisher. With more than 19 years of experience, he offers a range of real estate services including strategic pricing, marketing, property staging guidance, contract negotiation and community insights.
WHAT IS YOUR AREA OF EXPERTISE?
I serve both the Westside of Los Angeles and the South Bay, where I’ve built strong connections both professionally and personally. I grew up in El Segundo, so my roots in this community run deep. That gives me a unique perspective on neighborhoods, schools and the lifestyles that truly matter to my clients. I specialize in a wide range of property types and sale types, from single-family homes to multifamily investments, to trust and complex sales. I bring a well-rounded, informed approach to every transaction. I offer honest guidance, strategic insight and a genuine commitment to clients in these dynamic markets.
WHAT FULFILLS YOU MOST ABOUT YOUR CAREER?
The opportunity to build real, lasting relationships with people during some of the most important moments of their lives. Helping someone find the right home, or move forward from one they’ve outgrown, is deeply personal and I never take that responsibility lightly. It’s incredibly rewarding to be a steady guide through that journey—offering support, clarity and confidence along the way. I also value the partnerships I’ve built with lenders, inspectors, stagers and other agents. It truly takes a team to make a real estate experience smooth and successful. For me, it’s not just about properties—it’s about people, relationships and being a steady, reliable presence in an often overwhelming process.
WHAT’S THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED?
The best advice I’ve ever received is to focus on relationships, not transactions. Real estate isn’t just about properties, it’s about people, their lives and their milestones. That approach has shaped how I work every day: putting people first, always.
HOW DO YOU ENSURE THAT THE ADVICE YOU GIVE CLIENTS ALIGNS WITH ETHICAL STANDARDS?
I take my responsibility to act ethically very seriously. One of the ways I ensure that my recommendations always align with the highest standards is by staying actively connected to a network of top professionals in the trade—attorneys, lenders, escrow officers, inspectors and seasoned colleagues—who are experts in their respective fields. Their insight helps me stay sharp, informed and prepared to advise my clients with accuracy and integrity. Additionally, through regular company meetings at Estate Properties,
• Residential | Multifamily | Commercial
• Integrity, Transparency, Personalized
• Strategic Guidance
• Trust & Estate Specialist
ongoing legal updates and industry training, I’m always up to date on the latest changes in contracts, disclosures and real estate law. This constant flow of knowledge allows me to confidently guide clients while protecting their best interests, both ethically and legally.
HOW DO YOU ENSURE THAT YOU UNDERSTAND CLIENTS’ UNIQUE NEEDS?
I listen. Before anything else, I take the time to have real conversations, ask thoughtful questions and truly understand what matters most to them—not just in terms of property features, but in lifestyle, timing, concerns and long-term goals. Every client is different, and I I tailor my strategy based on their specific priorities. It’s this intentional focus on listening and connection that allows me to be not just their Realtor but their advocate—someone they can trust to guide them with care, clarity and purpose.
SHARE A PROFESSIONAL SUCCESS STORY.
For a recent trust sale, we coordinated a full estate sale with a trusted company to empty the property. We handled all repairs and completed a full refresh of the home. From there, we managed professional staging and executed a customized marketing plan tailored to attract the right buyer pool. The result was a seamless sale process that far exceeded initial value expectations, maximizing returns for the estate and relieving the family of the logistical burden. The process gave them peace of mind during a difficult time and allowed them to move forward without added stress.
IN WHAT WAYS DOES YOUR WORK MAKE OUR COMMUNITY A BETTER PLACE TO LIVE?
Every transaction is an opportunity to strengthen the community one home, one family, one project at a time. Helping people invest in their futures doesn’t just transform individual lives; it revitalizes neighborhoods, supports local businesses and creates the foundation for lasting connections. Real estate has the power to shape stronger, more vibrant communities, and being part of that impact is the driving force behind my work.
Brittny Burford
Realtor®, Burford Beach Homes | Estate Properties
Agraduate of Arizona State University with a business degree in marketing, Brittny Burford moved to the South Bay in 2004. She owned a small business in Hermosa Beach before becoming a licensed Realtor in 2009. She has worked in residential real estate in the South Bay for the past 16 years.
WHAT MAKES YOU STAND OUT AMONG LOCAL REALTORS?
My motto is: I would never put you in a home I wouldn’t put my own family in. I deeply care about my clients’ goals, and I take the time to truly understand what matters most to them—beyond just bedrooms and bathrooms. It’s about lifestyle, community and longterm happiness. I’m committed to being the kind of Realtor people feel confident in and comfortable with, both professionally and personally. I also value strong relationships within the Realtor community, knowing that collaboration and mutual respect help create smoother transactions and better outcomes for everyone involved. My clients appreciate my honesty, work ethic, attention to detail and the way I go above and beyond—even after the deal is done.
HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW THIS AREA?
Over the years, I’ve gotten to know every corner of our Beach Cities—and I absolutely love being part of this vibrant, tight-knit community. People jokingly call me the “mayor” because I genuinely love connecting with others and supporting everything local.
WHAT ARE YOU AN EXPERT AT OUTSIDE WORK?
Travel! My family and I love exploring new places and creating unforgettable experiences together. Whether it’s a quick weekend getaway or a big international trip, I’m all about finding the best spots, hidden gems and family-friendly adventures. I love sharing those moments on social media, and I’ve become the go-to person for friends and followers asking for travel tips, itineraries and destination ideas.
WHAT IS NEW AND EXCITING FOR YOUR BUSINESS IN 2025?
This year kicked off with an exciting change: My brokerage rebranded to Estate Properties. The fresh look and elevated brand have strengthened our presence not just here in the South Bay but internationally as well. With a strong global network and an incredible luxury portfolio platform, we now have even more tools to market high-end properties in a standout way. Even more exciting? We’re now the #1 independent brokerage in the South Bay and ranked Top 3 across all of Los Angeles County!
My Local List
Favorite Coffee: Hi-Fi Espresso
Favorite Burrito: Brother’s Burritos
Favorite Gift Shop: Gum Tree
Favorite Dinner: Gabi James
WHAT DO YOU EXPECT TO SEE IN REAL ESTATE THIS YEAR, SPECIFICALLY IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA?
Southern California’s market is always dynamic, and 2025 is shaping up to be no different. I expect to see continued demand, especially in lifestyle-driven areas like the South Bay, where people value coastal living, great schools and vibrant communities. Inventory is still tight, but motivated buyers are out there—especially as interest rates begin to stabilize. We’re also seeing more movement in the luxury market, with buyers prioritizing quality of life and long-term value. It’s a great time for sellers to prep their homes and take advantage of strong demand, and for buyers to stay ready and work with a local expert who can help them act quickly when the right opportunity comes up.
HOW DOES YOUR FAMILY SUPPORT YOUR WORK?
My husband has been my biggest cheerleader since day one— he’s actually the one who encouraged me to chase my dream of becoming a Realtor. He’s been there through every milestone and continues to celebrate each win with me. Now our daughter, Kennedy, is getting in on the fun too! She loves to offer her own “expert” advice and even makes appearances in some of my marketing videos and social media. It’s become a fun family affair, and I love having them so involved.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR OWN HOME.
We bought our Riviera home in 2015 when our daughter was just a toddler. We knew we wanted a place where we could put down roots and raise our family. I sold our home in North Redondo Beach and found a house on a quiet cul-de-sac that backed up to the trail—it had great bones and was full of potential. We jumped into a remodel right away, creating spaces that truly worked for our growing family. Over the years, we’ve continued to make updates as our needs evolve. To me, a home is more than just a place—it’s where your family grows, memories are made and life unfolds. Ours has been just that.
Jane Sager
Real Estate Agent, Estate Properties
Originally recruited by Hughes Aircraft, Jane Sager moved to the South Bay from Kansas, earned a master’s degree in engineering and worked for a decade in electrical engineering. She transitioned to real estate 37 years ago, which opened the door to the most meaningful parts of her life. She met her dearest friends, found her husband through a client referral and even discovered her dog during an open house! Jane has been recognized among the top 1% of agents nationwide by Estate Properties and featured by the Los Angeles Business Journal. She has personally made 11 moves—each one carefully chosen for its potential as a property she could improve, and each one a little closer to the beach. This experience has given her valuable insight to share with clients.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR WORK.
I help families build smart strategies that grow with them, whether that results in future income or a move from one property to something that better fits their changing needs. For most, the path to their dream home isn’t a straight line. Often it takes a few strategic steps, and I’m there to help. My own moves taught me how to recognize value, opportunity and the power of vision, which I now share with my clients. I'm deeply grateful for this profession. Helping clients shape a plan, build equity and ultimately land in a home that feels like their dream come true is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.
WHO DO CLIENTS WORK WITH ON YOUR TEAM?
My clients work directly with me. While I have a sharp, efficient crew behind the scenes, I’m personally involved in every detail from start to finish. Unlike team-based models, I never hand clients off. My approach is deeply personal, hands-on and entirely focused on delivering the highest level of individual attention. That connection doesn’t end when the sale closes. I stay in touch long after the keys are handed over, whether it’s checking in, offering advice on a renovation or helping their kids find their first home years later. Most of my business comes by referral, and I’m honored that clients trust me enough to recommend me to their friends and family.
WHAT IS IMPORTANT TO YOU ABOUT YOUR WORK?
My own family is small, so I treasure the deep connections I build with clients and value becoming part of their extended family. During COVID-19, I helped a family sell their Tree Section home and move to Maine. We became incredibly close, and I’ve been by their side through several more milestones since. When their beloved mother passed, we honored her with a quiet farewell at sea. That kind of trust and closeness is everything to me.
My Local List
Favorite Mexican: Esperanza
Favorite Steak: Slay Steak and Fish
Favorite Italian: Mangiamo Ristorante
Fantastic for Kids: King Harbor Yacht Club
WHAT DO YOU EXPECT TO SEE IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA REAL ESTATE THIS YEAR?
In the South Bay, conditions are shifting. Today’s environment rewards preparation, discretion and precision. I’m focused on story-driven marketing that emotionally connects with buyers, and negotiating with clarity and conviction. A client recently told me, “I wouldn’t want to be sitting across from you at the negotiation table”—and today that strategy is crucial.
WHAT IS THE MOST BIZARRE REQUEST YOU’VE RECEIVED FROM A CLIENT?
Once a seller asked if I could help interested buyers “fall in love with our beach lifestyle.” So I hosted a sunset dinner in the home with the family, and afterward they walked to the beach for a spontaneous midnight swim! The next morning we had an offer and the home was sold.
WHAT DO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY ENJOY DOING?
Coming from the middle of the country, I’ve always been drawn to the ocean. My husband is from Naples and has the same passion. Whenever we can, we take friends out on our boat, The Plain Jane. To be on the water with our stunning coastline and hundreds of dolphins dancing alongside is a dream I never imagined would come true. We love the simple joys of beach life—walking to downtown shops, riding our bikes to dinner with friends and strolling The Strand with our dog.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR OWN HOME.
I had the privilege of creating our dream home—a sanctuary on the water’s edge. Once inside, the backdrop is soothing and focused entirely on the views. I love the bronze fireplace in the kitchen, a spot where everyone gathers. It pulls people in and creates a unique but comfortable feel. And then there’s Sammy, our vintage sea lion fountain from the San Francisco Bay circa 1957. The neighborhood kids love him, and so do I!
David Keller & Team
Estate Properties
Real estate agent David Keller started his career as a professional dancer. “That means I’ve got the rhythm, grace and precision to navigate even the trickiest negotiations with style and flair!” he says. David and his team at Estate Properties— including agents Mia Ellison, Gina Bradley and Morrine Robey—have more than 100 years of experience in the real estate industry.
WHAT MAKES YOU STAND OUT AMONG LOCAL REALTORS®?
I know the South Bay like the back of my hand—every curve, corner and hidden gem. And I bring that insider knowledge, along with a keen eye for detail and a deep sense of professionalism, to every transaction. I blend sharp communication skills with a warm, down-to-earth approach that instantly puts clients at ease. With years of experience leading thousands of agents, I have a knack for staying one step ahead—keeping clients in the loop, anticipating their needs and answering questions before they’re even asked.
I formed my team with the same high standards and the same love of fun. We make the process not just seamless but genuinely enjoyable. When you work with us, you’re not just getting real estate pros—you’re teaming up with people who care deeply, communicate clearly and love what we do.
WHAT IS YOUR PROFESSIONAL SUPERPOWER?
My exceptional relationships and stellar reputation with agents throughout the South Bay. Our mutual respect opens doors, smooths negotiations and creates opportunities that others simply can’t match. When you work with us, you benefit from a powerful local network that helps get deals done quickly and successfully.
WHAT DO YOU CREDIT FOR YOUR SUCCESS? Discipline.
WHICH REAL ESTATE TRANSACTION ARE YOU PROUDEST OF?
The transaction I’m proudest of isn’t about the size or price—it’s about the heart behind it. I had the privilege of working with a single mother living in a Gardena condo who dreamed of owning a single-family home for her family. Together with a dedicated lender, we navigated the process to make that dream come true. Watching her step into a home that was truly hers—where she could build memories and create stability—was incredibly fulfilling. It reminded me that real estate is about so much more than just buying or selling; it’s about helping people find a place to call their own, a foundation for their future. That emotional connection and the value of homeownership is what makes this transaction my proudest.
My Local List
Motorcycle Passion: Bike Shed Moto Co.
Favorite Restaurant: Little Sister
Favorite Music Venue: The Lighthouse Café
Favorite Mechanic: 808 Southbay Motorcycles
DESCRIBE YOUR COMMUNICATION STYLE.
My communication style is direct and transparent, and it keeps clients fully informed at every step. I provide clear, honest updates with no surprises, wrapped in a comprehensive weekly seller report. From marketing activity to feedback and next steps, every detail is continually shared so clients are never left in the dark. My goal is to help them feel confident, empowered and in control throughout the entire process.
TELL US ABOUT A BOOK THAT HAS MADE AN IMPACT ON YOU.
I read The Daily Stoic because its simple, daily reflections help me focus on what I can control and let go of what I can’t. I’m always astonished that these writers, speaking from ages past, still manage to amplify and shed light on the very same issues we face today. Their timeless wisdom builds habits of clear thinking, calmness and resilience, making it easier to navigate modern life with perspective and purpose.
WHAT DO YOU EXPECT TO SEE IN REAL ESTATE THIS YEAR, SPECIFICALLY IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA?
This year, Southern California’s real estate market will stay competitive, but there are still opportunities for those who are actively searching. Even with tight inventory and strong demand, buyers who stay engaged and persistent can uncover hidden gems. With the right strategy and a keen eye, opportunities are absolutely out there waiting to be found.
WHAT HAVE CLIENTS SAID ABOUT WORKING WITH YOU?
• “David is not and never will be about just the sale.”
• “I would work with David again and again.”
• “We could not be more pleased; we strongly recommend David to anyone considering buying or selling a home in the South Bay.”
• “I have been proud to have David represent my interests and without hesitation recommend him to others.”
• “I highly recommend Dave whether it’s listing your home or looking for a home in the Beach Cities.”
L to R: Mia Ellison, David Keller, Gina Bradley, Morrine Robey
The Kondo Group | Compass
Tadashi Kondo, Founder
Founded by Tadashi Kondo in 2014, The Kondo Group is a team of 17 professionals who have been consistently ranked among the top 1% of producers nationwide and recognized by RealTrends and Wall Street Journal over multiple years. With deep roots in the Palos Verdes and South Bay markets, the team specializes in luxury service enhanced by Compass’ innovative marketing. Beyond real estate, The Kondo Group is actively engaged in the community and real estate industry through organizations like the Asian Real Estate Association of America, Rotary clubs, dog rescue initiatives, golf clubs and chambers of commerce.
WHAT MAKES YOU STAND OUT IN YOUR FIELD?
Our team is truly one of a kind. We bring a wide range of expertise to the table—from mediation and negotiation to interior design and marketing. This collaborative model allows us to provide wellrounded, strategic service that goes beyond what a single agent can offer. We lean on each other’s strengths to ensure that every client gets the best possible outcome. We even have a team in Las Vegas, Nevada, and are the only Compass agents licensed there!
WHAT DO YOU CREDIT FOR YOUR SUCCESS?
Without question: our team. Our shared values, work ethic and support for one another have been the foundation of our success. We operate as a unit and always put the client first. We’ve streamlined our system over the years to perfect our communication and assist with a smooth transaction.
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP TIPS FOR GETTING A HOME READY FOR MARKET?
Start with decluttering and professional staging. Presentation is everything. Just like you’d detail a car before selling it, a clean, well-styled home can have a major impact on how quickly it sells— and for how much. Buyers want to see the potential of a space, and thoughtful preparation helps them do just that. We also utilize our brokerage Private Exclusives to pre-market our listings before they hit the public. This is an amazing way to test the price while adding finishing touches and even selling off market.
HOW DO YOU WANT PEOPLE TO FEEL WHEN THEY STEP INTO A SPACE YOU’VE PREPARED?
We want it to feel like home—inviting, warm and full of good energy. Every home has a vibe, and we aim to create spaces that feel light, bright and full of life so buyers can instantly picture themselves living there.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR APPROACH?
We’re resourceful, solution-oriented, client-focused and always
My Local List
Cute French Bakery: Pinwheel Café
Amazing Japanese Hand Rolls: Oh! BANZAI
Cool Vintage Boutique: Retro Reload
Best Kids Services: SHARE Pediatric Therapy
thinking outside the box. Most importantly, we prioritize our clients’ best interests above all else. When negotiating terms or navigating challenges, we bring a proactive mindset and a calm, professional presence to every transaction.
DESCRIBE YOUR COMMUNICATION STYLE.
We adapt to what works best for each client. Whether you prefer texts, calls, emails or in-person updates, we stay flexible and responsive to match your schedule and needs. Everyone is so different, and we will cater to them. That said, clear communication is always a priority. We set expectations early, keep you informed every step of the way and make sure you understand all your options. No one likes feeling backed into a corner—transparency and choice are key to helping our clients feel confident and in control. Plus, within our team we are fluent in six languages.
HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW THIS AREA?
Incredibly well! We know just about every street, school, park, hidden gem, local eatery and driving shortcut in the area. Tadashi is even a Miraleste High School graduate! Every one of us either graduated from a South Bay high school or have kids in the local school systems. Chances are we know who has lived in that house.
WHAT’S THE MOST BIZARRE REQUEST YOU’VE HEARD?
We haven’t had many bizarre requests—but we do have stories! One memorable moment was having to break up a fistfight between two sisters during a showing. That was definitely a first!
WHAT DO YOU EXPECT TO SEE IN REAL ESTATE THIS YEAR, ESPECIALLY IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA?
We’re seeing a gradual shift toward a buyer’s market, with inventory increasing and buyers gaining more leverage in negotiations. That said, demand in the South Bay and Palos Verdes remains strong, so strategic pricing and preparation are still key. It’s a more balanced market, and that opens the door to new opportunities on both sides.
L to R: Poul Erik Norgaard, Michelle Nishide Lucin, Hanna Carlson, Victoria Paullin, Shima Circle, Amanda Krampert, Lisa Martini, Tadashi Kondo, Lorena Andrade, Sylvia Kim, Alyssandra Hill, Mora Sepehrnia, Jessiqa Pace, Meg Puccinelli, Andrew Boston
Harbor Lights Escrow
Mary Fujisaki, President/Owner
Mary Fujisaki founded Harbor Lights Escrow in 1999, assembling a team of professionals with 250 years of combined experience in the real estate industry, including residential and large complex commercial projects. The firm, licensed by the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation, follows stringent requirements to protect its clients.
IN WHAT WAYS DOES YOUR FIRM STAND OUT?
We have been in business at the same location in the city of Rancho Palos Verdes since 1999 and are a leader in sales within the surrounding area. By choosing Harbor Lights Escrow, customers are ensured smooth transactions. We work with our customers up front to understand what is truly important and how they define quality, in addition to the things that we know are essential to provide the highest value and innovative real estate solutions. Additionally, Harbor Lights Escrow gives access to its most experienced staff via hands-on management, sterling customer service and support, operational transparency and continuous access to project information. While some escrow companies talk about quality, our commitment to quality underpins everything we do and differentiates us from others.
WHAT IS YOUR PROFESSIONAL SUPERPOWER?
Exceptional attention to detail. We can catch errors or discrepancies that could potentially derail a transaction or create problems down the line. Our superpower allows us to meticulously review and process paperwork, spot inconsistencies, and ensure that all parties involved in the escrow process are protected and satisfied with the outcome.
WHAT DO YOU CREDIT FOR YOUR SUCCESS?
Harbor Lights Escrow’s professional success is built on relationships, trustworthiness, efficiency, experience, good communication, problem-solving skills and compliance with legal real estate requirements. These qualities have helped us attract amazing clients, streamline transactions, provide valuable guidance, build strong relationships, handle challenges effectively and ensure a successful transaction.
DESCRIBE YOUR COMMUNICATION STYLE.
We prioritize open and transparent communication with our clients. We understand the significance of keeping our clients informed throughout the escrow process. Our communication style is proactive and responsive, aiming to provide updates and address any inquiries promptly. We strive to maintain regular contact with our clients, offering progress reports and addressing
• Residential Home Sales
• Mobile Home Sales
• Commerical/Income Properties
• Tenant Relocation Escrows
any questions or concerns they may have. Our goal is to ensure that our clients feel supported and informed at every step of the escrow process.
HOW DOES HARBOR LIGHTS ESCROW KEEP UP WITH CHANGES IN THE INDUSTRY?
We keep pace with real estate updates and legislation, showcasing certified escrow officers with professional designations. By actively engaging with the California Escrow Association, we utilize their educational resources to remain informed and enhance our service offerings consistently.
WHAT IS NEW AND EXCITING FOR YOUR BUSINESS?
We are thrilled that the city of Rancho Palos Verdes selected Harbor Lights Escrow to provide escrow services for the Greater Portuguese Bend landslide voluntary property buyout program.
WHAT ARE YOUR TEAM MEMBERS’ AREAS OF EXPERTISE OUTSIDE WORK?
Beyond their roles in escrow services, our team members are accomplished individuals with a wide range of talents and interests. Among us, you’ll find award-winning horse riders, dedicated philanthropists, influential community leaders, presidents and board members of nonprofit organizations, nurturing mothers and proud grandmothers. We believe that our diverse experiences and skills contribute to the exceptional service and dedication we bring to our clients and the community.
TELL US ABOUT A BOOK THAT’S IMPACTED YOU.
The Bible has greatly impacted Harbor Lights Escrow, providing inspiration, guidance and strength. The messages of love, forgiveness, compassion and redemption within its pages have influenced how we approach our work and interactions with others. The Bible’s profound insights have instilled a sense of hope, faith and resilience within the team, inspiring us to uphold integrity, compassion and excellence in all aspects of our escrow services.
L to R, front: Mary Fujisaki, president; Annette Kaio, vice president, business development
Third row: Eileen Rech, senior escrow officer; Stellesa Petorella, escrow officer; Laura Turner, senior escrow officer
Back: Maryann Johnson, escrow officer
Terry Niemann
Realtor®, Terranea Real Estate
Terranea Real Estate is a full-service real estate agency assisting buyers and sellers of view homes on the Palos Verdes Peninsula and the Beach Cities. The firm also maintains a waiting list of people who want to be notified about Terranea Casitas & Villas resales. Realtor Terry Niemann has worked in the industry for two decades and joined Terranea Real Estate in 2010. She previously worked as president of an advertising and PR firm that specialized in marketing real estate.
WHAT IS YOUR PROFESSIONAL SUPERPOWER?
Buying or selling residential real estate is emotional and can be intense, worrisome or stressful. We certainly hope to alleviate some of that as well as create a calm, positive experience. It’s my job to keep everyone relaxed and on track for a successful completion where all parties feel like winners. In an ideal world, buying or selling a home as the next step in one’s life adventure should be fun! Terranea Real Estate clients enjoy special privileges at the resort that are customized just for them. These include perks like complimentary valet parking, being able to use the fitness center and spa pool or playing golf at the Terranea Links course.
WHAT MOTIVATES YOU IN YOUR WORK?
What motivates me is that I truly care about my clients. Because I live here and raised my family here, I will probably see them at the grocery store, while walking/hiking or at a restaurant. Relationships are far more valuable than any single transaction. Clients become friends, and the fact that they trust me to be straightforward and hardworking, pay attention to their specific wants and needs, and take care of them as if they were a family member is extremely important. It’s very rewarding when clients say, “Thank you! You were absolutely right!” even years after a sale.
WHAT IS THE MAIN THING THAT YOU CREDIT FOR YOUR PROFESSIONAL SUCCESS?
I am truly fortunate to have been blessed with great clients, wonderful mentors and partners, and some pretty incredible bosses over the years. The South Bay has many wonderful, knowledgeable real estate professionals, and we are fortunate to work with great experts. Knowing the best mortgage lenders, inspectors, landscapers, architects, engineers and interior designers benefits our clients when we are preparing their homes to sell for the best price or buyers who want to remodel or rebuild. I have a keen interest in staging and sometimes updating interiors to help create the best presentation, photos and flow for a home on the market. I am proud that as a broker, I was named a Los Angeles Magazine All-Star Top Producer in 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, in addition to earning the Palos Verdes Specialist certification.
My Local List
Favorite Spa: The Spa at Terranea Resort
Favorite Restaurant: The Original Red Onion
Favorite Retail Shop: Waterleaf Home
Favorite Garden Center: Roger’s Gardens
WHICH TRANSACTION ARE YOU PROUDEST OF?
Selling the original Terranea Casitas & Villas for the resort’s developer during a recession and stagnant real estate market was challenging because very few people had heard of or understood the California Coastal Commission conditions that make the Terranea properties second homes and not primary residences. There have only been Terranea resales available for the last several years. Many of the original buyers are now dear friends, and we continue to do business together all over the South Bay.
WHICH TRANSACTION HELPED DEFINE YOUR WORK?
Selling the new semi-custom homes in Rolling Hills Country Club was exciting, creative and enjoyable as we worked with buyers to personalize and customize their new homes along the brand-new Rolling Hills golf course and country club. Seeing a former rock quarry transformed into a beautiful, thriving neighborhood of families living in their gorgeous dream homes was very fulfilling. Plus, I adore all things related to interior design, including the indooroutdoor spaces. So it was truly so much fun.
HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW THIS AREA?
As a longtime resident, I raised my children here and was very involved in their schools’ parent associations, community service groups and sports leagues. My husband coached many youth sports leagues in the area, and one of our sons and his wife are now raising their own family in the South Bay. I am delighted to help clients navigate the different neighborhoods and unique personalities of the South Bay and on the Hill.
WHAT IS AN UNUSUAL REQUEST YOU'VE RECEIVED FROM A CLIENT?
A buyer insisted that I meet her at 5:00 a.m. in front of a house she was considering buying—to see if street traffic would wake her up in the morning. Well, we stood outside in the front yard until about 6:30 a.m., and thank goodness no loud trucks drove by. She ended up buying the house!
Johannes Steinbeck
Realtor
®,
Steinbeck Homes | Estate Properties
Realtor Johannes Steinbeck has more than a decade of experience selling real estate across Los Angeles, specializing in luxury residential properties in the South Bay and the Palos Verdes Peninsula. He is an avid interior design enthusiast and enjoys helping clients visualize the potential of a space, as well as transforming homes through creative design.
WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE POTENTIAL CLIENTS TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?
With an impeccable reputation built upon integrity, transparency and exceptional client service, I seamlessly guide clients through every transaction. My personal approach is marked by dedication, meticulous attention to detail and a genuine commitment to clients’ goals. I deliver results that exceed my buyers' and sellers' expectations.
WHAT TRENDS ARE SHAPING REAL ESTATE IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA THIS YEAR?
We're seeing a strong move toward soulful, layered interiors. Buyers want homes that feel personal, textured and emotionally resonant.
HOW DO YOU CONSISTENTLY SECURE IMPRESSIVE OUTCOMES FOR BOTH BUYERS AND SELLERS?
My strategy relies heavily on thorough market analysis and strategic negotiations. Also, my passion for architecture and design enables me to highlight the true potential of every property, ensuring my clients see maximum value.
IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU STAND OUT IN COMPETITIVE MARKETS LIKE THE SOUTH BAY AND THE WESTSIDE?
I anticipate challenges before they arise, communicate clearly and tailor every strategy to the individual client.
WHAT IS YOUR PROFESSIONAL SUPERPOWER?
Personalized attention and understanding the unique desires and needs of each client. I believe in transparency and communication—essential in achieving outstanding results.
DESCRIBE YOUR MOST MEMORABLE DEAL.
Winning a home for first-time buyers with a compelling, heartfelt offer.
Sandy Bruce
Broker Associate, Estate Properties
Areal estate agent for the past decade, Sandy Bruce joined Estate Properties in 2016 and was named Realtor® of the Year by the South Bay Association of Realtors in 2024. In addition to helping clients sell and buy real estate, she also trains and mentors new agents who are getting started in the real estate industry.
WHAT IS YOUR BEST ATTRIBUTE DURING A REAL ESTATE TRANSACTION?
I am very communicative and quick to respond. Even when things are not emergent in the transaction, I know that swift response time helps mitigate stress for all parties. When you can keep stress levels down, ultimately the entire process is much smoother.
WHAT DO YOU CREDIT FOR YOUR SUCCESS?
I truly love people! I enjoy their stories, their dreams and the energy of our amazing community. There are so many different types of personalities in this area, and I genuinely love to meet as many people as I can.
WHAT MAKES YOU STAND OUT?
I developed negotiation skills while working in the trenches of corporate America prior to getting into real estate. I have entwined them with South Bay vibes, building rapport and an exemplary reputation along the way.
WHICH REAL ESTATE TRANSACTION ARE YOU PROUDEST OF?
I was honored to help a very special person purchase her first home. When she was in elementary school, her family and ours were neighbors. After my kids were born, she became the babysitter we relied on frequently. I saw her grow up and now have the pleasure of sharing the status of USC alumni with her! All these years later, she trusted me to assist her in purchasing her first home. I was with her every step of the way. It was a very personal experience for me, and I am so proud of her!
DESCRIBE YOUR COMMUNICATION STYLE.
I am highly communicative. I start by asking how clients like to receive communication (i.e., email, text, calls). I want to meet clients where they are and be sure they are comfortable. Communicating is the best way to reduce stress and worry for everyone through this process.
Anne Bobek
Realtor®, Anne Bobek Real Estate | Estate Properties
Anne Bobek has worked in South Bay real estate for 20 years. She started as an escrow officer and moved into residential sales four years ago. Anne is a certified Palos Verdes Specialist.
WHAT MAKES YOU STAND OUT AMONG LOCAL REALTORS?
In a market as competitive as the South Bay, having an edge matters. I began my career as an escrow officer, which gives me a level of transactional insight that few agents can offer. That background allows me to navigate even the most complex deals with precision and discretion while delivering a seamless, elevated experience for my clients from start to finish.
WHAT IS YOUR PROFESSIONAL SUPERPOWER?
My superpower is staying composed and solution-focused in every situation. Real estate can be unpredictable, but I remain clear-headed and strategic even in high-pressure moments. My clients know they can trust me to move their transactions forward with confidence, clarity and discretion.
HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW THIS AREA?
As a Palos Verdes Specialist and longtime South Bay resident, I have a deep understanding of the area’s unique character. From microclimates to school boundaries, neighborhood culture to lifestyle fit, I guide my clients with insider knowledge that goes far beyond what you’ll find online. It’s a personal and professional connection to this community that elevates the experience.
WHAT IS NEW AND EXCITING FOR YOUR BUSINESS IN 2025?
This year brings a fresh start with the rebranding of my brokerage as Estate Properties Los Angeles, and I couldn’t be more excited about what’s ahead. I’m building on that momentum by expanding the marketing, education and resources I offer to my clients, helping them stay ahead in a fast-changing market. It’s an exciting time in real estate, and I’m committed to delivering a higher level of service and results every step of the way.
Darren Pujalet
Real Estate Broker, Pujalet Real Estate | Estate Properties
Darren Pujalet graduated from San Diego State University with a degree in marketing with an emphasis in sales and finance. He began working in real estate 18 years ago and joined Estate Properties in 2013.
DESCRIBE YOUR PROFESSIONAL SUPERPOWER. Delivering value at every stage of the real estate process. Whether it’s uncovering hidden off-market opportunities for buyers or crafting high-impact, creative listing strategies for sellers, I tailor my approach to my clients' goals. I’ve built and developed homes, managed investment portfolios and invested in income properties—giving me a well-rounded perspective when advising on lifestyle, renovation potential and long-term value. It’s important to have a broker with strong negotiating skills and trusted agent relationships on your side as a strategic consultant. A home is often the most significant asset someone will own. I take the responsibility of protecting and maximizing that very seriously.
WHAT DO YOU CREDIT FOR YOUR SUCCESS?
A strong work ethic, a steady hand under pressure and the trusted relationships I’ve built over time. Clients return and refer others because they know I deliver results with integrity, strategy and care—and I never take that trust for granted. My team and I offer a personalized, boutique real estate experience that goes beyond the transaction, building long-term confidence and lasting value for clients.
HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT OUR COMMUNITY?
I’ve called the South Bay home for over 30 years. Before real estate, I spent more than a decade working in the music industry—and through it all, the South Bay has remained my anchor. This community offers a unique small-town feel, and it’s where I’ve chosen to build a family, cultivate lifelong friendships and build a career rooted in the community. Over nearly two decades in real estate, I’ve helped clients navigate every pocket of the South Bay from the coastal walk streets to the hillside homes—leveraging local insight to guide smart investments. With top-rated schools, mild weather, and a market that consistently outperforms state and national trends, this is one of the few places where your home is both a lifestyle and a wealthbuilding asset. My connection to the South Bay isn’t just professional—it’s deeply personal. That’s why I stand by the belief: “When you buy here, you’re buying a lifestyle.”
Gayle Probst
Realtor®, Estate Properties
Gayle Probst has been selling homes in the South Bay for 33 years. She works with sellers, buyers and investors and also assists with leasing. Gayle graduated from the University of Nebraska and worked on Capitol Hill for a couple of years before relocating to California.
WHAT MAKES YOU STAND OUT?
I love selling real estate in the South Bay. We have fabulous weather, friendly people, great schools, real community values, clean air, low crime—an overall better quality of life! I believe that “home is where the heart is.” It’s where your friends and family gather, where memories are made. It is wonderful to help people with this major event in their lives. I take their trust very seriously, and I feel that it sets me apart from many other agents. My clients know they can totally count on me, and that relationship and bond is what I love. I feel patience is a great personal attribute and something I bring to every transaction.
WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR TOP TIPS FOR GETTING A HOME READY FOR MARKET?
I pride myself on getting my clients and their homes ready for sale. I prepare them for all the ups and downs (and curveballs) that can happen. I have a professional stager come to their home to talk to them about how to arrange their furniture and what to get rid of so we are picture-perfect when we go on the market. Making sure counters are clean—no more than three items in a space—is a great rule.
WHO DO CLIENTS WORK WITH ON YOUR TEAM?
I have a fabulous assistant, stager, escrow officer and title rep, legal team, marketing team and photographer—but my clients work only with me.
WHICH
REAL ESTATE TRANSACTION DURING YOUR CAREER ARE YOU PROUDEST OF?
I can still remember my very first transaction like it was yesterday. I was so excited to be called by a tennis friend of my husband. He was building a new home and wanted to sell his current residence. I was so nervous and then almost passed out when he said he was looking forward to working with me! I showed the house to a neighbor of his, and he had me write the offer. The negotiating was nerve-racking and so educational. I remember how proud of myself I was.
Kelly Evans & Laura Medina
Realtors®, Kelly & Laura | Estate Properties
Kelly Evans and Laura Medina, also known as “Sisters SOLD on the South Bay,” have been navigating the residential real estate market together as “Kelly & Laura” for 25 years. Their experience of previously owning two successful paint-your-own-pottery studios—coupled with their degrees in economics and communications and former work in publishing sales and interior design—gives the sisters a businessminded approach to real estate transactions.
WHAT IS YOUR PROFESSIONAL SUPERPOWER?
We are straightforward with clients yet bring a sense of humor to the table. Real estate transactions often occur during stressful times: death, divorce, debt, diamonds, diapers (the D’s of real estate). So it is important that we offer solid and sage advice to help clients know what to expect.
WHAT
MAKES YOU STAND OUT?
Reputation is everything in this business. Our reputation translates into how our clients and our colleagues perceive us. We strive
to stay on top of the ever-changing real estate landscape, and networking with other agents is a great way to understand new trends in the market and dig into potential off-market listings that might benefit our buyers. Wearing many hats and having a can-do attitude means we often get our hands dirty to make things happen. We will do whatever it takes to make our clients happy!
WHAT DO YOU CREDIT FOR YOUR SUCCESS?
It’s “the love of the game” that lights a fire in our bellies. We are both competitive, and nothing makes us happier than the sound of our phones ringing from a referred, past or brand-new client asking us to help them buy or sell a home. We love making that a reality.
HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW THIS AREA?
We grew up here, and our kids grew up here. We work and play here. We know the schools, the neighbors, the buyers and the sellers, the original home and the newly flipped version, the old and new stores, the best painter, termite guy, HVAC guy, interior designer, stager, etc. And we rarely need our GPS!
Lynn Lord
Broker Associate, Estate Properties
Lynn Lord has worked in South Bay real estate for nearly four decades, negotiating more than 2,500 property sale transactions with a broad spectrum of clients. Lynn counts dynamic marketing, negotiations and relationships as the foundation of her business. She holds designations as a Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist, Palos Verdes Specialist, Accredited Staging Professional, Senior Real Estate Specialist and Trust/ Probate Sale Specialist and is a 1031 Expert.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR WORK.
For the past 39 years, I’ve been dedicated to helping clients successfully navigate the South Bay real estate market. This experience has equipped me to effectively negotiate with all types of individuals, always keeping the client’s goals at the forefront. Today I’m proud to continue that tradition of excellence with Estate Properties Los Angeles, where luxury service meets expert guidance.
WHAT DO YOU EXPECT TO SEE IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA REAL ESTATE THIS YEAR?
In 2025 home prices in the Beach Cities are expected to remain high. However, the rate of appreciation will slow down due to elevated mortgage rates and buyer fatigue. There has been an increase in the number of homes available on the market. Despite this, quality homes located in desirable neighborhoods continue to be in high demand. Additionally, with permitting processes becoming easier, 2025 is expected to see a rise in the construction of accessory dwelling units (ADUs).
DESCRIBE A MEMORABLE REAL ESTATE SALE.
One of my first sales in the Hollywood Riviera was with Courtney and Darrell. They were first-time homebuyers and just had a daughter, Nicola. Decades later, I had the privilege of selling Nicola and Tommy a home. Nicola was pregnant with their daughter, Charlie. Can’t wait to start shopping for Charlie!
WHAT IS YOUR BEST PROFESSIONAL ATTRIBUTE?
Patience is key when it comes to finding the right home. Sometimes it takes buyers a while to truly understand what matters most to them in a home and lifestyle—and that’s completely OK. I’ve worked with clients who have been searching for over a year, and I’m always committed to supporting them every step of the way.
Johnny Religa & Lynn Lord
Gabrielle Herendeen
Broker Associate, Go Gabby Team | Estate Properties
Gabrielle Herendeen is a real estate professional with 25 years of experience representing clients who are buying and selling in the South Bay and beyond. A South Bay native, she assists clients with everything from luxury coastal estates to fixer-uppers, investment properties and rentals. Gabrielle holds accreditations as a Real Estate Negotiations Expert, a Seller Representative Specialist and a Certified Probate Expert.
WHAT MAKES YOU STAND OUT?
With decades of experience, over 500 5-star reviews and hundreds of successful transactions, I bring a confident presence to what can be an emotional and stressful process. My clients describe me as detail-oriented, knowledgeable and fiercely protective of their best interests. I blend sharp negotiation skills and strategy with a warm, personal touch, and that balance makes the difference to my clients.
WHAT IS YOUR PROFESSIONAL SUPERPOWER?
I have developed the ability to assess situations clearly, seeing both the big picture and the smallest details simultaneously. I can often anticipate how offers and negotiations are likely to unfold before they even happen, which allows me to guide clients with clarity and confidence. Whether positioning a home for market or navigating complex decisions, I make sure my clients feel informed, empowered and advocated for every step of the way.
WHAT DO YOU EXPECT TO SEE IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA REAL ESTATE THIS YEAR?
Buyers are more discerning, and move-in-ready homes with outdoor space, functional floor plans and strong lifestyle features are in high demand. While some were hoping for significant drops in interest rates or real estate prices, we are seeing a stable yet competitive market largely due to persistent low inventory, especially in desirable areas like the South Bay. Because affordability continues to be a challenge, buyers are taking their time and scrutinizing value carefully, which means that pricing strategy, property presentation and professional representation matter more than ever. Sellers who invest in some preparation and partner with an experienced, dedicated agent will be best positioned to attract serious offers, stand out in the market and see the sale through to a successful closing.
Devra Zandell
Realtor® Associate, Zandell Real Estate Group | Estate Properties
Devra Zandell brings more than 21 years of experience to the table when helping people buy and sell homes in the South Bay. She holds the designation of Real Estate Collaborative Specialist in Divorce and has received Easy Reader’s “Best of the Beach” Real Estate Listing Agent award for three consecutive years.
WHAT MAKES YOU STAND OUT?
My unwavering enthusiasm and positive energy, which I bring to every client interaction. I am solution-oriented, ensuring that I effectively address challenges as they arise. My hands-on approach reflects my commitment to guiding clients through their real estate journey with care and support. My strong work ethic and meticulous attention to detail further enhance my ability to deliver exceptional service and achieve successful outcomes for my clients.
WHAT IS YOUR PROFESSIONAL SUPERPOWER?
I am highly resourceful, ensuring that my clients have access to a comprehensive network of vendors and services tailored to their needs. This “one-stop shop” philosophy allows me to effectively support clients, providing them with valuable resources and assistance every step of the way.
WHAT IS YOUR BEST ATTRIBUTE IN REAL ESTATE?
My attention to detail plays a crucial role during real estate transactions. I ensure that every aspect of the process is thoroughly reviewed and understood. This diligence allows me to guide my clients through the complexities of the transaction, making certain they fully comprehend what they are signing and feel confident in their decisions.
WHAT DO YOU CREDIT FOR YOUR SUCCESS?
My strong passion for helping others. This drive motivates me to go above and beyond in delivering value, building meaningful relationships and making a positive impact.
DESCRIBE YOUR PROFESSIONAL APPROACH.
My approach to real estate is built on integrity, personalized service and a commitment to delivering results. I take time to understand client’s goals, provide clear communication, and use my market expertise to guide them through the process. I build long-term relationships by ensuring a seamless and rewarding experience for every client. My tagline is: "When it's time to buy or sell, it's time to call Zandell."
Andre Suarez & Angelica Suarez
Realtors
®, Suarez Realty Partners | Estate Properties
With a combined experience of over 35 years, Angelica Suarez and Andre Suarez are real estate professionals specializing in South Bay real estate owned (REO) properties, buyers and sellers, and real estate investments.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR TEAM.
We are committed to providing personalized, client-focused service. Our extensive industry knowledge, proven negotiation skills and dedication to building lasting relationships ensure that our clients achieve their real estate goals with confidence and success.
WHAT IS YOUR PROFESSIONAL SUPERPOWER?
We love what we do.
WHAT ATTRIBUTE OF YOURS COMES INTO PLAY DURING A REAL ESTATE TRANSACTION?
Our personalities. We are friendly and professional. We love talking to and informing our clients and meeting new people.
WHAT MAKES YOU STAND OUT?
Our experience and negotiating skills, our wealth of resources and relationships, and the fact that we are bilingual.
WHAT DO YOU CREDIT FOR YOUR PROFESSIONAL SUCCESS IN THE REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY?
Coming from a place of contribution and value, and not expecting anything in return.
WHAT ARE SOME TOP TIPS FOR GETTING A HOME READY FOR MARKET?
Decluttering, making small repairs as needed and focusing on lawn/curb appeal. We recommend that you hire a professional.
DESCRIBE YOUR COMMUNICATION STYLE— HOW OFTEN ARE YOU IN TOUCH WITH CLIENTS?
Weekly, by calls and texts mostly. We make all client outreach personal and do not just copy and paste the same thing to everyone.
Nick Burdiak
Realtor®, Vista | Sotheby’s International Realty
After graduating from American Martyrs and Mira Costa, Nick Burdiak played on the Division 1 water polo team at UC Irvine. He worked in the financial sector, then joined Vista Sotheby’s in 2016 and learned about the industry from his mentor and father-in-law, Chris Adlam, co-owner of Vista. Nick lived in Manhattan Beach for most of his life but now lives in Palos Verdes Estates with his wife and their two young children.
WHAT MAKES YOU STAND OUT?
How much I enjoy connecting with people from all walks of life. I don’t look at clients as just transactions—I take the time to build real relationships, and a lot of those turn into genuine friendships. I love collaborating with clients and other agents, and that’s opened the door to some great offmarket opportunities and referrals. I’m all about community, good conversations, and making the whole experience as personal and positive as possible.
HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW THE AREA?
I can’t imagine many people knowing it better! My parents and brothers live in the Beach Cities, so this community is connected to both my personal and professional life. I’ve lived and breathed every part of the area, from Junior Guards at Marine Street to hunting down the best breakfast burrito in the area (not naming any names here). I truly understand what makes every corner of the South Bay so special—giving me a unique edge in helping clients navigate the market with confidence.
DOES YOUR FAMILY SUPPORT YOUR WORK?
I married into a family deeply rooted in real estate. In addition to Chris, I also work with my mother-in-law and sisterin-law. My wife says she can handle the late nights and weekend hours of my work because she grew up around it and understands how important it is to be there for clients. Real estate doesn’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule, and I pride myself on being available when my clients need me most.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR APPROACH?
Being adaptable and staying in tune with each client’s unique needs. I’ve worked with everyone from first-time buyers to experienced sellers, and no two situations are the same. It comes down to clear, honest communication—listening closely, staying responsive and making sure clients feel supported every step of the way.
Come Back HOME
Southbay’s popular HOME section returns in our August/September issue, arriving August 12!
HOME is where the South Bay’s top architects, designers, landscapers and contractors showcase their best projects, and you could be among them.
Sign up now to reach our 100,000+ affluent, engaged readers and highlight your business with a 1-page display ad or a 2-page Design Showcase, Moodboard or Before & After. RESERVE YOUR
For more information, contact Jen Turquand at Jen.Turquand@thegoldenstatecompany.com
HEALTH
Bowled Over
FINDING JOY AND CREATIVITY IN NUTRITION, PAGE 150
Outof Office
BEYOND THE SMILES, TWO LOCAL DENTISTS ARE JOYFULLY REDEFINING WELLNESS IN THE SOUTH BAY.
Written by Tanya Monaghan | Photographed by Shane O’Donnell
Walk into Hi-Fi Espresso in Hermosa Beach, and you might find two unexpected guests holding court with some of the morning patrons. That’s Michael Fulbright, DDS, and Kevin Faist, DMD, hosting locals for free coffee and a chance to talk about, yes, teeth. Or life, if that’s the preferred topic of the day.
“We set up a sign that says, ‘Ask me anything,’” Michael says about Coffee Talk—one of the ways these two professionals hope to ease people’s minds about a visit to the dentist. “People come out of the woodwork. They’ve got questions, fears or just curiosity. We’ve gained a ton of patients that way because they meet us as people first.”
Let’s face it: For many, a trip to the dentist triggers immediate dread. Michael and Kevin recognize that and set out to meet that fear before a patient even visits the office. That’s why both men are stepping out into the community, surfboard in one hand, coffee in the other. Their community-focused initiatives are helping South Bay residents redefine what oral health really means—and how it ties in to the bigger picture of overall wellness.
“We want to make going to the dentist feel good,” says Kevin. “Not just in the chair, but through everything we do—before, during and after you walk through our doors.”
Both dentists took winding roads to end up in this sunny corner of Southern California. Kevin grew up outside Cleveland, Ohio, and always dreamed of heading west. After dental school and a decade in Chicago, he and his wife, Luisa—who was raised in Manhattan Beach—finally made the leap to the South Bay during the pandemic.
“We were always trying to get here, and once we did, we just knew it was home,” he says. “There’s something special about this community—the loyalty, the
warmth. It’s more than I could’ve imagined.”
Michael, raised in Las Vegas, relocated to California to attend the USC School of Dentistry and discovered the South Bay while staying in Westchester. What started as a temporary move turned into a long-term love story. He began practicing in Redondo Beach in 2004 after purchasing the practice from his former employer. More than two decades later, he’s still deeply rooted in the community he fell in love with.
“I ended up in Hermosa for a year and thought, ‘Wow, this is it!’” he says. “It had everything I loved about Newport but with a more grounded, community feel.”
The pair set up two serene, beach-inspired locations—one in Redondo Beach led by Michael and one in Manhattan Beach helmed by Kevin. Transforming a sterile medical office into something calming and enjoyable, they brought in aromatherapy, noisecanceling headphones, heated neck wraps and even weighted blankets.
“Little things like that make a huge difference for someone with dental anxiety,” says Kevin.
This sensory approach is intentional. From the tone of voice used by front-desk staff to the warmth of the waiting rooms, the experience is designed to ease tension.
“We don’t ask if patients want these amenities,” says Michael. “We offer them because everyone’s first instinct is to say, ‘Oh, I’m fine.’ But once they experience it—the aromatherapy, the warm neck wrap—it really takes the edge off.” They also offer sedation options for those needing extra support—everything from oral sedation to nitrous and IV.
But the duo’s mission is bigger than filling cavities. Rather than staying behind the mask, they are taking their work far beyond the confines of a traditional practice into the community.
Their quarterly Surf Club says it all. Locals gather at the beach to catch waves with the doctors before participating in a wellness experience like breath work, Pilates or yoga, in collaboration with South Bay businesses like Breathe & Learn, Jamie Lovelynn and The Daily.
“We’re bringing together like-minded people who
“We’re bringing together likeminded people who care about their health, in and out of the dental chair.”
care about their health, in and out of the dental chair,” says Kevin. “These events are about connection, education and fun.”
Most of all, Michael and Kevin are passionate about educating the community on the direct link between oral and systemic health. “We stopped asking patients how their teeth are,” says Michael. “We ask how their health is. Because what’s happening in the mouth often tells us what’s happening in the rest of the body.”
They take patients’ blood pressure at every visit, screen for sleep apnea and airway issues, and look beyond the surface for the root cause of problems.
“Fifty percent of strokes and heart attacks are tied to gum disease,” says Michael. “It’s not about vanity—it’s about longevity.”
Both doctors take a whole-body approach, especially when working with children. “A lot of kids are diagnosed with ADHD when it’s actually an untreated sleep disorder,” says Kevin. “When we improve their breathing, everything changes—from behavior to focus. That’s the kind of dentistry that excites us.”
Both Michael and Kevin live locally, raise families here and treat patients like neighbors. “Becoming a part of the community and giving back to the community, we’ve been able to find people who have likeminded visions,” shares Kevin. “The events we do are building community, and that’s important because the more connected we are, the healthier we are.”
Their social media presence reflects that same ethos. Scroll through their feed, and you’ll see surfing snapshots, wellness collaborations and plenty of smiling patients—but not a single scary drill in sight. “We intentionally keep our content focused on positivity, lifestyle and community,” says Michael. “It’s about building trust and showing who we are.”
The partners know that not everyone will be in their chair as regularly as they should, but that’s still OK.
“People want the treatment,” adds Michael, “but fear holds them back. So we meet them where they are, and we do as much as we can in a single visit so they don’t have to keep coming back.” ■
Going the Distance
AFTER EARNING A SILVER MEDAL FOR TEAM USA IN PARIS, REDONDO BEACH NATIVE TAYLOR SPIVEY SETS HER SIGHTS ON LA 2028.
Written by Kat Monk
With a laugh, 34-year-old Taylor Spivey jokes that she first competed in a triathlon while still in her mom’s womb, albeit in the early months of pregnancy. She was destined to be an athlete—her parents met while both were competing in the event. Taylor’s dream came true last summer when she returned from the Paris 2024 Olympics wearing a silver medal, earned as a member of the USA mixed relay team.
Growing up in the South Bay, she became a national champion competing as a Junior Lifeguard on the beaches of Los Angeles. Eventually she became an L.A. County Lifeguard.
She played water polo at Mira Costa High School and was a Division 1 swimmer for California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. During her time at Cal Poly, she discovered her love for the triathlon—an endurance race where athletes compete consecutively in swimming, cycling and running.
It was not long before she was invited to be on the Olympic development team even though she had no background in running. She started competing in under-23 events and quickly progressed to race against the best in the field.
Despite Taylor’s relentless training for the Olympics, her strong world ranking and her stellar performances, the committee gave the third and final spot for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics to another competitor. While other athletes may have quit, Taylor persevered.
“She embodies the mentality of ‘thank you, sir, I’ll have another,’” says lifelong friend Stef Corgel, a fellow athlete and fitness influencer. “I watched Taylor handle every brand of adversity on her journey to the Olympics and add it to her fire. Only someone as gritty as Taylor could handle a horrible bicycle accident, training across the world so far from family and friends, missed holidays, the daily sacrifices and then a head-scratching
decision from the committee.”
The disappointment became a turning point, pushing Taylor to become not only stronger and faster but more consistent. “Never count Taylor out,” says her father, Marc. “For the next four years she raced so consistently.”
She qualified for Paris 2024 individually as well as for the United States mixed relay team. “She definitely earned her spot for Paris,” Marc says. “To sit along the River Seine and watch her medal was surreal. It just doesn’t get much better as a parent, and the tears were flowing.”
After the individual races, where Taylor placed 10th, Team USA stepped away from the Olympic Village for a few days to recover and focus on the relay. “We came back with a bit more energy, and we wanted to give everything—not just for ourselves but for each other,” Taylor shares. “Winning an Olympic medal is every athlete’s dream. To win silver with Team USA in such a close race was really special.”
Shortly after the games, the T100 Triathlon tour invited Taylor to compete as a “hot shot” wild card. The middle-distance race—covering 70.3 miles including a 1.9 km swim, 90 km cycling and a 21.1 km run— seemed like a fun opportunity to Taylor. It kept both her body and mind busy and was a great release after the intensity of the Olympics.
Taylor’s ambitious 2025 goals include the World Triathlon Championship Series, the T100 tour and the Supertri series (short course). Next, the California girl has her sights set on a full-circle moment as she strives to compete once again on the beaches of Los Angeles—this time as the hometown Olympian for the 2028 games.
For certain, Venice Beach will be filled with not only a crowd of L.A. County Lifeguards supporting one of their own, but also a slew of Taylor’s fans, family and friends from here in the South Bay. ■
Healing to Helping
AFTER A LIFE-CHANGING DIAGNOSIS, HERMOSA NATIVE KAYLA MANGIONE SHIFTED HER APPROACH TO FOOD AND INSPIRED OTHERS WITH HER ONLINE JOURNEY.
Written by Tanya Monaghan
Photographed by Alexis Peterson
For Kayla Mangione, food is never just food; it’s a vehicle for healing, connection and empowerment. As creator of The Family Food Project, a growing online platform focused on practical, nourishing meals and intentional wellness, she’s helping families rethink the way they nourish themselves. Her journey to this work has been deeply personal, grounded in years of transformation, healing and a fierce dedication to her own family.
“I was born in Hermosa Beach to two hippie parents,” Kayla tells me, her voice carrying a mixture of nostalgia and pride. Her parents, both drawn to California in search of the proverbial dream, met serendipitously on the Venice Beach Boardwalk. “My mom drove from New York, my dad from British Columbia. They met at the beach and never looked back.”
Growing up in the South Bay shaped Kayla’s values.
“I THINK PEOPLE RELATED TO THE IDEA OF FEEDING YOUR FAMILY WITHOUT FEAR—JUST WITH KNOWLEDGE, INTUITION AND LOVE.”
She attended Hermosa Valley School and graduated from Redondo Union High, where she was already working 30 hours a week as a teenager. “I was very motivated,” she laughs. “I managed The Beehive and was dabbling in college, still figuring out what I wanted to do.”
Love, as it turns out, found her through a storage room phone line. While working at The Beehive, Kayla formed a long-distance friendship with a packaging rep named Mike. “We talked for almost two years before meeting in person,” she says. “He finally came up to visit and took me out for a quick coffee date. That was it.”
Kayla likes to joke that she “imported a husband from Orange County.”
Eventually, she left retail and pursued her growing interest in mental health, completing her psychology degree and earning her MFT and art therapy credentials from Loyola Marymount University. It was during this time that Kayla encountered the challenges that would forever reshape her relationship with wellness.
At age 21 she was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease after years of misdiagnoses and declining health. “I had to have emergency surgery and part of my intestine removed,” she shares. “Doctors wanted me on immunosuppressants indefinitely, but I just felt I’m too young for this.”
So Kayla chose a different path. She immersed herself in studying nutrition, autoimmune healing and antiinflammatory diets. “I removed gluten before it was even a thing. It was life-changing.”
More than just about gut health, Kayla’s change ignited a spiritual awakening. “I realized how much swallowing my emotions affected my body. I had to grow up and stop internalizing everything. That’s when I began healing.”
After working with underserved youth at the 1736 Family Crisis Center, Kayla pivoted again—this time toward motherhood. “Therapy is heavy, and being a new mom, I didn’t have the bandwidth,” she explains.
But feeding her daughter, Luca, sparked a new fire. “I had this deep desire to give her the best possible
foundation. I started researching everything—foods, toxins, nontoxic cookware.”
Kayla began photographing Luca’s meals. “At the time, I thought I invented posting food on Instagram,” she laughs. “I had never been on Facebook. I was totally new to social media.”
Her account, The Family Food Project, took off. Followers were drawn not just to her beautiful meals but to her no-fuss, deeply intentional approach. “I think people related to the idea of feeding your family without fear—just with knowledge, intuition and love.”
Her Instagram became a haven of grain-free, dairyconscious, nutrient-dense recipes, all served with gentle wisdom and motherhood realness. But it’s never been about perfection.
“My meals are super simple,” she says. “Thirty minutes or less, or I throw it in the Crock-Pot. I want people to feel like, ‘I can do this too.’”
Now homeschooling her two daughters, Kayla is entering a new phase. “I want to start working one-onone with local families,” she says.
Her vision includes custom meal plans, pantry makeovers and gentle lifestyle coaching that blends her therapeutic training with her culinary know-how. “Everyone’s puzzle looks different. Some families want more plant-based meals, others have allergies or are picky eaters. I help make it doable.”
Kayla’s philosophy transcends food, encouraging nervous system regulation, joy and creativity—particularly for mothers. “I realized I was always trying to be better—reading self-help, parenting books, doing all the things. Last year I gave myself permission to read only fiction for fun. It changed everything.”
That seemingly small shift had a powerful ripple effect. “It gave me back joy. My kids started reading more. My husband did too. We have family book club now,” she says, eyes sparkling. “And you know what? It made me a better mom, a better person.”
What’s next for Kayla? “I just want to keep growing. Keep helping. Keep creating. And above all, keep listening—to my body, my family and my own inner voice.” ■
WHERE INNOVATION MEETS BEAUTY
Providing personalized, compassionate skin care to help South Bay clients reclaim their confidence.
Life is busy and sometimes chaotic … making it easy to put other concerns ahead of your own beauty and wellness. The experts at Golden State Dermatology’s three Torrance locations want you to reclaim your confidence by investing in yourself. The board-certified doctors and friendly staff provide the highest level of care—helping you turn the tables on time while looking and feeling your best.
Golden State Dermatology is a physician-owned network of comprehensive dermatology services throughout the Western United States. It partners with leading dermatology clinics and dermatologists offering services such as cosmetics, Mohs surgery, pathology and plastic surgery in state-of-the-art medical facilities.
The network has more than 100 providers at 35+ locations throughout California. In April 2023, Golden State Dermatology expanded its footprint from the Bay Area and Central Valley into Southern California through a partnership with Moy-FincherChipps Facial Plastics & Dermatology.
Moy-Fincher-Chipps’ providers are renowned experts in dermatology, facial plastic surgery and custom laser treatments. They have remained at the forefront
of the beauty industry for more than 30 years, helping clients correct the signs of aging, treat sun damage, and address general and cosmetic skin care concerns. The team is committed to advancing the field of dermatology by performing breakthrough research, having developed and tested new products and devices for treating multiple types of skin conditions and cancer.
South Bay native Ronald Moy, MD, founded the practice while working as co-chief of the dermatology department of UCLA, where he had the opportunity to train both Edgar Fincher, MD, and Lisa Chipps, MD. The practice then moved to Beverly Hills and expanded to locations in Torrance and Encino. Dr. Moy’s daughter, Lauren Moy, MD, later joined the team, along with physician assistant Jeffrey So and nurses Kaitie McKeever and Madison Talley.
“We’re always looking for opportunities to serve more patients in their local communities,” says Edward Becker, MD, founder of Golden State Dermatology. “That means we seek out partners who share our values, our high standards of care and have great relationships.”
In early 2024, Golden State Dermatology further expanded its network by adding two
additional Torrance partnerships: Shirlene Jay, MD, with South Bay Dermatology and Amber Kyle, MD.
At South Bay Dermatology, Dr. Jay treats a variety of skin disorders and has a special interest in treating geriatric and pediatric patients, as well as medical dermatology and the diagnosis and removal of skin cancers. Dr. Jay and Tina Miley, RN, also enjoy cosmetic-enhancing procedures including fillers, toxins, lasers and microneedling.
Dr. Kyle has been a member of the South Bay community for over 30 years. She and Yen Vo, RN, and Esther Loop, LE, provide pediatric and adult patients with comprehensive medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology care. Peterson Pierre, MD, who also has a practice in Thousand Oaks, recently joined Dr. Kyle’s team.
“Golden State Dermatology is proud to support our clinicians to provide the highest-quality patient-centered care possible,” says Dr. Becker.
Ready to rejuvenate your appearance and reclaim your confidence? Book your cosmetic surgery consultation with any of the physicians at these three Torrance locations and embark on your journey to a more vibrant you.
“HELPING YOU TURN THE TABLES ON TIME WHILE LOOKING AND FEELING YOUR BEST.”
Edgar Fincher, MD
Lisa Chipps, MD
Lauren Moy, MD
Jeffrey So, PA-C
Kaitie McKeever, RN
Madison Talley, RN
Yen Vo, RN
Peterson Pierre, MD
Amber Kyle, MD
Shirlene Jay, MD
Ronald Moy, MD
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Eat, Sleep & Be Happy
WHETHER GETTING A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP, SHARING A GOOD MEAL WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY OR SIMPLY ENJOYING A GOOD LAUGH, HERE ARE A FEW NEW BOOKS TO ENHANCE YOUR HEALTHY LIFE.
Edited by Michele Garber
SUPER-ITALIAN: MORE THAN 110 INDULGENT RECIPES USING ITALY’S HEALTHIEST FOODS
By Giada De Laurentiis
Restaurateur, Emmy award-winning TV host and author of 10 best-selling cookbooks, Giada De Laurentiis has never wavered from her fundamental formula for memorable meals: Good Cooking = Technique + Ingredients + Ambience. In Super-Italian, Giada shows readers how to eat like an Italian, with an emphasis on quality ingredients—specifically healthy Italian superfoods. Her recipes are comprehensive, from how to stock your shelves with superfoods to how to create meals that are both nutritionally dense and delicious. And to further whet her readers’ palates, her cookbook features over 100 stunning photographs of finished meals.
HOW TO SLEEP LIKE A CAVEMAN: ANCIENT WISDOM FOR A BETTER NIGHT’S REST
By Dr. Merijn van de Laar
Described as an evolutionary romp through the science of sleep, Dr. Merijn van de Laar’s first book cracks the code and busts the myths of why so many of us struggle to get a good night’s sleep. A psychologist, sleep scientist and self-proclaimed recovering insomniac, van de Laar describes how our issues with sleep date back to our ancestral roots. Here, he shares insight into improving sleep, understanding how our sleep patterns change as we age, and how gadgets, temperature, light and other factors may affect sleep. Drawing upon observation, research and emerging science, he shakes up conventional wisdom of optimizing sleep and offers a fresh and accessible approach.
BIG DUMB EYES: STORIES FROM A SIMPLER MIND
By Nate Bargatze
If laughter is the best medicine, then comedian Nate Bargatze’s eagerly awaited first book is just what the doctor ordered. One of today’s hottest comics, Nate is selling out arenas with his side-splitting stand-up tour. His hilarious comedy specials are breaking streaming records, and his memorable Saturday Night Live hosting gigs and broad multigenerational comic appeal were likely reasons he was just named the host for this year’s Emmy Awards. In his new book, the Nashville native shares personal stories, anecdotes and opinions imbued with his southern charm, his signature family-friendly humor and his self-deprecating wit. Big Dumb Eyes is sure to make readers laugh aloud.
Desert Recharge
MIRAVAL ARIZONA RESORT & SPA HAS BEEN A DESTINATION FOR REGENERATING—AND IN SOME CASES REINVENTING—SINCE THE 1980S. AN EASY HOUR’S FLIGHT FROM LOS ANGELES TO TUCSON, THE RESORT IS THE IDEAL PLACE TO RELAX OR PHYSICALLY CHALLENGE YOURSELF.
Written by Linda Grasso
The secluded Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa is in the middle of Sonoran Desert nature—replete with classic landscape elements: stucco, dirt, decomposed granite and cactus. As the friendly receptionist checked my sister and me in, she handed us a linen sack for our phones, informing us in the nicest way possible that electronics are prohibited from most areas of the resort.
It was my first trip to Miraval and my well-traveled sister’s third. Insisting that her experience at Miraval topped our visits to both Golden Door and Rancho La Puerta, she counseled me to bring only workout clothes. I’m glad I listened. Miraval is ultracasual. It is not uncommon to see people in spa robes eating dinner at Cactus Flower, the resort’s one full-service restaurant.
The sprawling 500-acre campus includes structures that range from meditation yurts to open-air massage tents. Although it was hot (105° during the day), many of the shrubs and trees still had blossoms.
The most appealing aspect of Miraval is its wideranging variety of classes, scheduled throughout the day. I’m not a morning person; for me, nothing is more frustrating than going to a resort that has yoga classes only available at 7 or 8 a.m. At Miraval, multiple classes and activity choices are available from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. and most are included in your room rate.
I loved the body-area-specific exercise classes. For example, I took a Glutes & Abs and a Happy Hips class. The resort also offers dozens of seminars on everything from maximizing your metabolism (who knew that the antioxidant properties of green tea were best absorbed when sipped hot and combined with lemon?) to getting better sleep.
Numerous group and private fee-based activities and sessions are also available. (A typical guest package includes a $175 per night credit that can go toward
them or spa services.) Choices include Better Sleep in Menopause & Beyond, Optimize Your Sex Life, The Power of Self-Compassion.
The Spirit & Soul category gets pretty woo-woo: Discover Your Soul Mission, Dream Circle, Dharma: Find & Follow Your Life Purpose, and a hands-on Crystal Oil Infusions workshop. I enjoyed a class on upping your cooking game with plant-based combinations. My sister loved her private session with a clairvoyant.
Those with an adventurous streak can opt for the Desert Tightrope, where you walk on a tightrope 25 feet in the air—clinging to a series of ropes for support—while protected by a harness and tether. Or the Quantum Leap, which begins with a climb up a 35-foot pole. At the top you reach a small platform from which you step off—while tethered—and swing midair. My sister loved this activity.
Unfortunately, I was recovering from foot surgery and couldn’t partake. But I did enjoy some firsts. I tried a barre class—taught by a former ballet dancer—and I attended a class on the bells and whistles of iPhone photography. Most of the teachers and instructors I had over a three-day period filled with back-to-back classes were enthusiastic, personable and informative.
The basic rooms are scattered across the resort in U-shaped structures, numbered in the 100s through the 400s. Our room was small and dark, with tired towels and dated furnishings. An older model air conditioner blasted icy gusts through a large ceiling vent above my bed—and it roared on and off all night.
My suggestion: Pay more for a room in the 500s or 600s. They are larger and have outdoor patios, showers and firepits. For multiple bedrooms, guests can opt for a villa or the newer villas called “retreats.” Built just six years ago, they offer updated amenities, furnishings and decor. Some even have pools.
All meals are included in the room rate and can be enjoyed at the Cactus Flower Restaurant. Lunch is a colorful, expansive buffet with all kinds of farm-fresh salads, healthy soups and sandwiches. Guests can also order from a small menu with a couple of daily entrees
like a meat burger or a burger that is beet-based.
For dinner, a handful of rotating entrees are available, with options such as halibut on a bed of peas and wild mushrooms, and short ribs atop mashed potatoes and pearl onions—our two favorites. The focus is on healthy ingredients and controlled portions, yet we were always completely satiated.
Also in the main hub: a café and a bar that is the nightly spot for a lively happy hour. Cocktails and an interesting array of California varietals can be ordered by the glass (alcohol is not included in the room rate).
One of the things I loved about Miraval: No matter where we were eating or drinking, the staff never made us feel rushed. We never felt any pressure from them to turn a table or vacate a bar stool. Can’t remember the last time I felt like that in Los Angeles.
The resort has four pools, including one filled with saltwater. Despite the heat, guests could be seen throughout the day lounging on chairs with glasses of wine, frozen grapes, ice pops—all available at the poolside bar.
We thoroughly enjoyed our time at Miraval, but to be candid, it needs an update—from decor to landscaping. The resort was acquired from a private equity group by Hyatt Hotels & Resorts in 2017, and it is surprising that the corporation hasn’t given it any (visible) love.
Many of the concrete pathways—particularly near the older rooms—are stained and in sore need of a power
The most appealing aspect of Miraval is its wideranging variety of classes, scheduled throughout the day.
wash. From body scrubs to massages, the spa services are top-notch but the facility itself is not. The oldschool sauna and the steam room, which dripped very hot water from the ceiling, felt subpar. The absence of an infrared sauna, considered a must-have nowadays for upscale wellness, is another negative.
Sustainability is another area where Miraval needs to improve. The resort provides refillable water bottles upon check-in, but plastic cups and straws abound. And for a place with so many insightful classes on nutrition—emphasizing the need to avoid processed, packaged foods—the presence of Coffee-Mate by the in-room coffee maker seems off. Why not place a tiny container of milk or cream in the mini fridge like so many resorts do?
To the sophisticated spa consumer, these have become basics. Miraval, with its entry-level price point of $1,675 per person per night in June (the offseason), can and should do better.
Who goes to Miraval? Mostly women. Mothers with daughters. Pairs and groups of friends. Women recently divorced or empty-nesters looking for a new path. We did see a few men, most of them there with wives—a few of whom were pregnant.
Despite the resort’s flaws, most guests had been to Miraval before and were planning to visit again—a testament to a unique form of magic that Miraval has created as an oasis in the middle of the Arizona desert. ■
“We’ve designed our experience with comfort at the forefront because we know proactive oral care has the power to help our South Bay patients live healthier and longer. Complementing our uniquely wellness-driven approach with world-class cosmetic care, we’re thrilled to offer the best of both worlds right here in our beloved beachside community.”
- Dr. Michael Fulbright and Dr. Kevin Faist
Before
Proud to be the oral care partner of choice for many South Bay business owners and their families.
After
Dr. Christina Hutchinson Hutchinson Dental
THE SOUTH BAY’S TOP HEALTH, WELLNESS & BEAUTY PROFESSIONALS
184 BEACH CITIES MEDICINE MONA MADANI, MD
186 RIO FROHOFF SOUTH BAY CHILD AND FAMILY THERAPY INC.
188 MEAGAN MARCUCCILLI, MD
190 STEVEN K. OKAMOTO, DDS, INC. STEVEN K. OKAMOTO, DDS & MICHELLE OKAMOTO, DDS
196 ARTSCI DENTAL ANTHONY NGUYEN, DDS & BRYNN MATSUURA, DDS
EDITED BY LAURA L. WATTS
HUTCHINSON DENTAL
CHRISTINA L. HUTCHINSON, DDS
512 Main St. #4, El Segundo | 310-640-2025 | hutchinsondds.com
BUILDING TRUST
Trust is key in any relationship. To build trust with patients, I make an effort to engage and learn as much about them as I can. This helps me understand what is important to them so I can align with their values to be their dental advocate. If there is a dental problem, I make an effort to be clear in what I see and communicate in a way they will understand. I like to provide patients with visual information about what is going on and what their options are so they can make their own decisions. Patients know that I won’t recommend treatment unless it is necessary.
IDEAL STAFF
My ideal team member would be someone who is a “yes” person. Someone who takes initiative, is cross-trained to wear multiple hats and is committed to putting the patient first with integrity. Some would call it having a servant’s heart—to simply endeavor to be helpful and naturally do their very best. It’s something that really can’t be trained; you either have it or you don’t.
PATIENT STORY
I share a patient with Dr. Estess, and this procedure took nearly a year to complete. It began with nearly a month of planning between myself, Dr. Estess and the lab for a successful and predictable outcome. Dr. Estess removed all of the patient’s teeth and placed implants in stages: the top arch first and the bottom arch a few weeks later.
I added implant-supported temporary restorations after each surgery and the final restorations a few months after that. Once we crossed the finish line and completed the follow-up bite appointment, the patient described what this treatment meant to him.
Not only did we help rid him of broken, painful and infected teeth, we also gave him a better smile to present to the world.
The restorations gave him a more even chewing table to enjoy foods he hadn’t been able to eat in years. Who knew one could find joy in a crunchy crouton?
Even from the temporary stage, he found himself engaging more often with strangers instead of hiding his smile. The way he shared all the ways this treatment improved different parts of his life is something I will absolutely never forget and always hold dear. As a thank-you, he made a bobblehead for myself and my assistant, which now reside in our reception area!
WISE WORDS
I encourage aspiring medical professionals not to forget the art of having a conversation and learning from mistakes. I feel the younger generation is detached and ill-prepared for the challenges real patients and their personalities pose since they have been trained via simulation. That’s not reality. Have the humility to learn what works in your hands and what doesn’t. Always turn a less-than-ideal outcome into an opportunity to learn and improve. There is no room in relationships or health care for arrogance.
SERVICES OFFERED
• Family dentistry
• Cosmetic dentistry
• Implant restorations
• Sleep appliances
• TMD
WORK-LIFE BALANCE
I love what I do, but dentistry can be physically demanding. Sometimes I just need to step away to switch off. And if that’s what I need to keep going, I can’t deny the same to be true for my team. If they need time to recharge or they have something come up that is important to them, that time is always granted. It’s important to surround myself with good people because you can’t train that. So if my ladies have a need, it’s only right to honor that. I never keep track because no one abuses it, and they all pick up slack when one person is out.
LOCAL GO-TO
Sometimes I feel I’m the unofficial sponsor of Proudly Serving in Hermosa Beach. It’s a smash burger place near where I live. When the wind is just right, all you have to do is breathe in to enjoy and spare yourself the calories. Their burgers are simple perfection between the steamed potato bun, caramelized onions, cheese just gooey and thick enough to sink your teeth into, and the crispy ends of the beef patty. Mmm! And the duck-fat fries are somehow crunchy and soft at the same time and always perfectly seasoned. It’s a dangerous treat to have so close!
LUSKIN ORTHOPAEDIC INSTITUTE FOR CHILDREN
SOROUSH BAGHDADI, MD
403 West Adams Blvd., Los Angeles | 213-493-5265 | luskinoic.org | @luskinoic
SERVING ADOLESCENTS
The Luskin Orthopaedic Institute for Children (LuskinOIC) operates in strategic alliance with UCLA Health, with physicians who serve as faculty and researchers at the UCLA Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. This partnership ensures treatments reflect cutting-edge research while addressing critical needs. This is particularly important as children ages 5 to 14 account for nearly 40% of all sports-related hospitalizations nationwide. With a decade of distinguished practice, I specialize in treating adolescent sports injuries—from ligament tears to complex dislocations—while contributing to community outreach programs and international children’s health initiatives.
A FAMILY-CENTERED APPROACH
Patients working with me at LuskinOIC receive a world-class and personalized approach to care, with access to the latest surgical innovations. We focus not only on treating injuries but also on supporting long-term growth and mobility. Our collaborative, family-centered approach ensures every child receives the best possible outcome in a welcoming and compassionate environment.
IN THE COMMUNITY
At LuskinOIC, our mission doesn’t stop at the clinic doors. We reach into the community with outreach programs, sports injury prevention workshops and global initiatives to deliver orthopaedic care where it’s needed most. All of us proudly volunteer to serve children worldwide through our International Children’s Program, which has been delivering international orthopaedic care for over 100 years. True health care should be about building healthier communities, near and far.
BUILDING TRUST AND CREDIBILITY
We offer care designed specifically for children, not treatments borrowed from adults. Families trust us to support every child’s journey, whether it’s a high school athlete recovering from a knee injury or a child with cerebral palsy in adaptive sports. Our commitment is to guide and support our patients through every challenge and every triumph.
ADVOCATING FOR YOUTH
The most rewarding part of my work at LuskinOIC is helping children heal, regain their strength and live full, active lives. Watching a young patient return to the activities they love is an incredible feeling. The most difficult part is seeing families face obstacles—whether emotional, medical or insurance-related—that can delay or complicate care. Our team works tirelessly to advocate for every child and ensure they get the treatment they deserve.
INTEGRATING AI
We are leading the future of pediatric orthopaedic care by integrating artificial intelligence into diagnostics, treatment planning and surgical precision. We are at the forefront of AI research, collaborating with other top institutions nationwide to study the best applications of AI in
SERVICES OFFERED
• Sports medicine
• Orthopaedic urgent care
• Ahmanson Fracture Center
• Rehabilitation center
• Comprehensive radiologic services
our approach. Technology will never replace expertise, but when combined with human insight and surgical skulls, it empowers us to deliver truly next-generation care for every child we serve.
CHANGES IN ORTHOPAEDICS
Pediatric orthopaedics is evolving faster than ever, bringing new opportunities to improve outcomes and transform the way we care for growing children. At LuskinOIC, we offer the full spectrum of cutting-edge pediatric orthopaedic care, including minimally invasive techniques, regenerative medicine, 3D-printed tools for preoperative planning and surgery, and personalized post-operative physical therapy. Our motion analysis lab also helps young athletes safely return to sports with tailored recovery programs.
WISE WORDS
I encourage aspiring medical professionals to remain curious, lead with compassion and always keep the patient at the center of everything they do. Medicine is constantly evolving, but the human connection remains timeless. I believe that combining technical excellence with genuine empathy is what truly makes a difference in a child’s life and shapes your career.
Dr. Baghdadi with LuskinOIC sports medicine team
LOVE.LIFE
740 S. Pacific Coast Hwy., El Segundo | 310-424-7011 | love.life | @theofficiallove.life
ABOUT LOVE.LIFE
Located in El Segundo, Love.Life is a 45,000-square-foot health and wellness destination redefining what it means to live well. An all-in-one club for root-cause medical care, personalized fitness, regenerative recovery and nourishing food, we offer a fully integrated approach to wholeperson health—under one roof. Love.Life bridges the gaps in today’s fragmented health care system by uniting the best of Eastern and Western medical science and wisdom with leading-edge diagnostics, treatments and therapies. Members uncover the underlying causes of imbalance and work toward optimal well-being with expert support, advanced testing and personalized health plans. Whether you’re focused on longevity, performance or prevention, we meet you where you are—and empower you to evolve.
MEDICAL MEMBERSHIP
Our care philosophy blends functional, integrative and lifestyle medicine for a holistic health experience that is highly personalized to support all dimensions of your well-being: mind, body and spirit. When you join Love.Life’s medical membership, you have a handpicked team of multidisciplinary experts who work together in partnership with you. We dive deep to understand what’s happening in your body at the cellular level and optimize five core markers: physical health, cellular health, gut and nutrient health, genetic predisposition, and social and spiritual health.
We use advanced testing and in-depth assessments to establish your baseline health and create a precision plan tailored to your unique goals. The actionable treatment plan includes integrated nutrition and fitness protocols prescribed by your doctor that you can put into practice on-site with the support from experts spanning 20+ health and wellness disciplines. Your physician meets with you throughout the year and stays connected
to your care team to ensure you’re tracking toward your goals. Tracking your progress is simple with a digital dashboard that connects your plan with providers, offering access to biometric data, test results and wearables data for a complete picture of health.
FITNESS + RECOVERY
Our Fitness + Recovery membership offers access to the fitness facility, unlimited use of the saunas and cold plunges, group fitness classes, access to the meditation area and pickleball courts, and therapies like lymphatic compression and red-light beds. Designed to support precise and efficient training, the fitness facility features state-of-the-art equipment, an indoor pickleball court, group fitness classes and 1:1 workout sessions with a trainer.
SERVICES OFFERED
• Comprehensive diagnostics & functional medicine
• High-performance fitness training
• Personalized nutrition
• Precision wellness therapies
• Spa services
SPA THERAPY
Our spa is open to the public and features the best of Eastern and Western modalities, making it your ultimate destination for wellness, mindfulness, rejuvenation and balance. Services include Chinese medicine, acupuncture, reiki and cupping, Ayurvedic massage, resultsdriven skin care, relaxation rituals and more. We also provide an expansive range of recovery treatments, including red-light beds, cryotherapy, hyperbaric oxygen chambers, lymphatic compression, cold plunge baths, steam room, and infrared and dry saunas.
CAFÉ + WELLNESS BAR
Our Café + Wellness Bar is open to members and the public, serving a variety of nutrient-rich, responsibly sourced foods to support optimized health and overall well-being—made in-house without any artificial ingredients or seed oils.
L to R, back: Hailee Burns, care navigator; Jade Mori, medical assistant/phlebotomist; Katie Lombardi, holistic health coach; Davon Murray, director of fitness operations
Front: Danel Lombard, director of physical therapy; Dr. Jaclyn Tolentino, lead functional medicine physician; Dr. Anna Emanuel, lead integrative medicine physician
My patients experience true conciergelevel care with direct call or text access anytime. I intentionally limit my practice to just 50 patients, compared to the 2,000 or more patients managed by a typical primary care physician. This allows me to deliver truly personalized attention and create fully customized plans for each individual. Our testing goes far beyond standard labs and includes advanced blood panels, hormone testing, microbiome analysis, genetic testing, cancer screenings and cardiovascular imaging.
DEDICATED TO HEALTH
I believe true leadership starts with living the message. I prioritize daily movement, a whole foods diet, clean living practices, and toxin-free products in my home and office. My team and I promote wellness through healthy recipe sharing, movement breaks and community engagement. Staying connected, balanced and energized allows me to better guide and inspire my patients.
HEALTH EDUCATION
Patient education is a cornerstone of my work. I share daily wellness tips, testing insights and prevention strategies through Instagram posts, reels and stories. I also write a monthly newsletter with research updates, recipes and actionable health advice. Through my website, blog and downloadable guides, I aim to empower individuals to take ownership of their health and feel confident navigating their wellness journeys.
A CAREER IN MEDICINE
Becoming a doctor has been my calling for as long as I can remember. Even as a toddler, I proudly told people I wanted to be a doctor. That passion never wavered. Helping others feel their best has always driven me. Witnessing my patients transform their health and reclaim their vitality remains one of the most rewarding parts of my work.
PATIENT STORY
One of the most powerful moments in my career was identifying a lifethreatening blockage that had been missed during routine cardiology care. I recommended a Cleerly CT coronary angiogram—an advanced imaging test
SERVICES OFFERED
• Concierge physician access
• Advanced diagnostic testing
• Personalized treatment protocols
• Personalized nutrition
• Exercise planning & coaching
that uses AI technology to map arterial plaque with precision. The AI overlay detected a nearly 90% blockage in a patient’s main artery. Immediate intervention with a stent placement saved his life. It was a profound reminder of how deeper testing and proactive screening can truly make all the difference.
PERSONALIZED APPROACH
I often say that being my patient is like having a doctor in the family. I spend time truly getting to know each person and thoroughly explaining lab results and treatment plans. I frequently test health strategies on myself before recommending them. I also research new tests and therapies for my patients, ensuring every recommendation is thoughtful, evidencebased and personalized.
There has been an explosion of minimally invasive treatments in the last five to 10 years, including an increase in popularity of the thread lift procedure, which involves inserting barbed threads (like fishing line with little hooks along the length) through a tiny puncture hole. These threads can be used to lift the tissue of the cheeks, the jowls, the eyebrows and even the nasal tip. With the use of thread lift procedures and fillers, one can achieve quite a dramatic transformation.
WISE WORDS
I always tell the students I mentor to really listen to their patients. We can only do our jobs if we get all the information from the patients. So learning how to ask the right questions and not rush to a diagnosis—and focus on the complaints or concerns that the patients come to your office for—are valuable skills.
TRUST AND CREDIBILITY
As a female surgeon in a largely maledominated field, I bring the personal experience of aging in today’s society from a woman’s perspective. I actively try new technologies and products on myself so I can better educate my patients about them. I believe that being a patient myself inspires confidence in my patients. I am diligent about using sunscreen, wearing a hat and sunglasses, applying high-strength retinol nightly, and receiving neurotoxin treatments every four to five months. I also use fillers to restore volume in my temples and midface/cheeks.
WHAT IS A FACELIFT?
A facelift is a surgery designed to address the jowls and neck skin laxity and tighten up the skin along the jawline. It involves deep permanent sutures to hold the muscle and tissue underneath the skin in a more aesthetic, youthful direction.
Stitches and scars are hidden around the ears and by the hair. Results typically last 10 to 15 years.
The typical facelift surgery lasts about two hours. However, if you want to address other issues at the same time such as eyelid skin trimming, it can add another hour. The recovery for a facelift is one to two weeks, with two weeks of no heavy lifting. By two weeks, when the stitches and staples come out, most of the swelling has gone down, and the incisions are still pink but can easily be covered with makeup. Patients are encouraged to be up and walking one day after surgery and beyond.
If you find yourself standing in front of yo ur mirror, pulling your skin back along your jawline and liking how that looks, you would probably be very happy with a facelift.
FILLERS AND BOTOX VS. FACELIFT
Fillers and Botox, while great for the mid-face, forehead and around the eyes, are not designed to do much in the neck and will not be able to tighten up the skin of the neck and jawline comparably to a surgical facelift.
WHAT IS A MINI FACELIFT?
The mini facelift does not involve elevating the skin as far out, which can sometimes mean that you can’t tighten sufficiently to achieve a sharp jawline. In most cases, it’s advised to invest in a facelift, which will be longer-lasting and only involve
SERVICES OFFERED
• LazerLift
• Cosmetic injectables
• Laser services
• Skin care
• Cosmetic facial surgeries
one recovery period, versus doing a mini facelift and having another surgery/recovery period five years later. Due to the costs for anesthesia and facility remaining the same per hour, a mini facelift is not considerably cheaper. However, an office laser facelift is offered at a lower price with a shorter recovery period for those not yet ready for a surgical facelift.
WHAT ABOUT A NECK LIFT?
A neck lift is actually a facelift or a face and neck lift that addresses the upper neck and the lower face to sharpen the jawline. There are many different names associated with the same surgical procedure.
COMMONS CLINIC
13160 Mindanao Way, Suite 300, Marina del Rey | 310-437-7921 | commonsclinic.com | @commonsclinic
BUILDING TRUST
Neil Bhamb, MD: Building trust starts with listening—really listening—to a patient’s values and needs, not just diagnosing a condition. It’s easy in today’s health care environment to slip into a factory mindset, where patients become cases or checkboxes. But that’s not care, and it’s certainly not how you build trust. The best way to earn trust is by showing trustworthiness. That means being an advocate and a partner, not just a provider.
Allyson Estess, MD: Give patients the information they need, take the time to truly listen and make decisions together. Every patient is unique, with different goals, different concerns and different needs, and that should shape every aspect of their care. I believe the best care comes from understanding the whole person, not just the image or diagnosis. I also feel that making decisions about medical treatment is a two-way street—I encourage my patients to ask questions, explore options and take an active role in their treatment.
Sanjay Khurana, MD: I try to bring transparency and clear communication to all of my patient interactions. What I do as a spine surgeon can be nuanced or complicated at times, and these procedures need to be well communicated every time to each patient. Having practiced for over 20 years, I am lucky to have patients who are happy to provide testimonials and often speak directly to prospective surgical candidates.
A HEALTH CARE CAREER
Dr. Bhamb: I explored the business side of health care before becoming a physician. What drew me to medicine was the patient-physician relationship. There’s something uniquely fulfilling about helping people one-on-one. While I recognize that you can make a broad impact through the business side of health care, I find it much more rewarding to connect directly with patients.
Dr. Estess: Early in college, I sustained a significant knee injury and found myself on the patient side of health care. I experienced firsthand how essential it is to have a medical team that listens, supports and helps you heal—especially if you’re looking to return to sport. It was during that time that I realized I wanted to be part of that kind of care for others.
Dr. Khurana: I have long been drawn to the healing arts. Even during early childhood, I had a strong feeling that my path would lead me to become a physician.
SOUTH BAY HOT SPOTS
Dr. Bhamb: For me, the South Bay is all about the vibrant, fun, and loving beach community. There’s this perfect blend of
SERVICES OFFERED
• Advanced orthopedics
• Comprehensive spine care
• Sports medicine
• Total joint replacement
• Pain management
hardworking individuals and a laid-back, Southern California vibe. Whether people are out biking along the coast or just taking a stroll blocks from the beach, there’s always this great energy and sense of connection.
Dr. Estess: My family enjoys being close to the beach and spending a lot of time there together. We appreciate the incredible variety of restaurants—our kids are adventurous eaters, which has made exploring the South Bay food scene even more fun for all of us.
Dr. Khurana: I love the South Bay—the community, the amenities, restaurants and everything that comes with it. And I enjoy the beach and racket sports whenever I have time. We are very spoiled here!
Dr. Khurana
Dr. Estess
Dr. Bhamb
L to R: Orthopedic surgeons Dr. Neil Bhamb, Dr. Sanjay Khurana, Dr. Allyson Estess
UCLA HEALTH – PALOS VERDES PRIMARY & SPECIALTY CARE
501 Deep Valley Dr., Suite 100, Rolling Hills Estates | 310-303-3953 | uclahealth.org | @uclahealth
CARE FOR ALL AGES
The primary care physicians at UCLA Health are here for you in all stages of your life. As the point person for your health care, your PCP should be your first point of contact. Whether you’re sick, injured or have a general health concern, you’ll receive outstanding, individualized care. Our PCPs include doctors who are boardcertified in internal, family and geriatric medicine, meaning we’re qualified to care for everyone in the family. We build strong relationships and deliver personalized, wellrounded care.
LIFELONG CARE
Michelle Sangalang, MD: There is a saying that family medicine provides care from the cradle to the grave, and this has been very true for me. A rewarding part of my job is being with patients in happy times, like the birth of their first child, and through difficult times, like the passing of a sibling or parent. These are such important moments that build strong relationships. Many of my patients have been with me for over a decade. I am grateful for our time together.
DEDICATION TO CARE
Robert Reiss, MD: I have dedicated my life to medicine and enjoy caring for my patients. Outside the office, I volunteer weekly to provide tattoo removal services to individuals who are working to change their lives and become productive members of society. Additionally, I have been actively involved for many years with events that support funding medical research dedicated to finding cures for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Finding a cure for inflammatory bowel disease is personally important to me, and I am honored to be recognized later this year for my efforts to make a difference in this important area of medical research.
SUPPORTING OUR HEALTH
Hanbyul Choi, MD: Some things that I recommend to my patients to support their health include having a hobby to enjoy outside of the busyness of life. Laugh often; laughter is excellent medicine. Be thankful. And try to have media-free time before sleep.
CONTINUITY OF CARE
Shih-Fan Sun, MD: Continuity of care refers to consistent and organized delivery of health care services over time. This is important for patients to maintain their health, especially those with chronic medical conditions. UCLA Health provides continuity of care through multiple dedicated primary care physicians, who will maintain a long-term relationship with patients and help coordinate all aspects of their health care, including necessary care with specialists.
TECHNOLOGY IMPACT
KimNgan Nguyen, MD: Technology has positively impacted my practice and health care. It has allowed patients to have direct access to test results and message the office through our online portal. Additionally, patients have access to telemedicine, which allows a convenient way to see their doctor. Along with other providers, I have adopted the use of an AI scribe in our clinical care, allowing me to connect with the patient rather than the screen of a computer.
GET MOVING
Maija Sanna, MD: Physical activity is one of the most essential aspects of maintaining both mental and physical health. The mantra “If you don’t use it, you lose it” is even more important as we age. Coupling exercise with regular visits to your primary care doctor is the best way to improve one’s longevity and quality of life.
SERVICES OFFERED
• Family medicine
• Internal medicine
• Geriatric medicine
• Neurosurgery
• Social work
A MEDICAL CAREER
Hyunah Poa, MD: I’ve known since middle school that I wanted to be a doctor. I almost majored in music, but my mother suggested I could become a doctor and still play violin. She was right. I still love music and occasionally play in a community music group or ensembles and thoroughly enjoy my career as a physician. For those interested in the medical profession: Have healthy stress-relieving habits such as good sleep, healthy nutrition, regular exercise, music/arts and social support. Seek out mentors in your field of interest. Get exposure in order to see if you actually enjoy the medical field. Life is a journey, not a destination. Remember to live life fully and with grace toward yourself and your loved ones.
LOCAL SPECIALTY CARE
Kunal Patel, MD: I am a neurosurgeon and have enjoyed extending my practice in Westwood to include the South Bay. I manage neurosurgical issues for patients in our Palos Verdes clinic. For patients requiring surgery, I coordinate surgery at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center. I enjoy working with the primary care physicians who have great relations with our South Bay patients, and I am happy to be able to provide local specialty care, which allows patients requiring neurosurgical care to decrease travel and wait times for specialty services.
L to R: Robert Reiss, MD; Michelle Sangalang, MD; Hanbyul Choi, MD; Hyunah Poa, MD; KimNgan Nguyen, MD
Not pictured: Kunal Patel, MD; Maija Sanna, MD; Shih-Fan Sun, MD
At BEAM, my philosophy is simple: Healthy skin is the foundation of everything. I combine effective, results-driven treatments with personalized education— covering skin care, diet and daily habits— so my patients can glow from the inside out. When you truly care for your skin, the results aren’t just better; they last.
CONTINUED EDUCATION
In an industry that’s constantly evolving, staying educated and informed is a top priority for me. Whether it’s attending aesthetic conferences or hands-on training seminars, I’m always learning from some of the best in aesthetics. This past year, I proudly earned my master’s degree as a nurse practitioner—and I’m not stopping there. I’m currently working on incorporating an integrative wellness approach at BEAM.
A FOCUS ON WELLNESS
Aesthetics has come such a long way, and it’s more exciting than ever. We now understand that good skin isn’t just about what we put on the surface, but how our entire body functions. The gut-skin connection is no longer just a trend; it’s a vital part of creating long-term skin health. You’ll see a growing focus on integrative wellness, where peptides, supplements, nutrition and lifestyle habits play a key role in enhancing skin from within. Rather than just placing a Band-Aid on the many health issues we face, we need to shift our focus to prevention. Prioritizing nutrition, movement, stress management and overall well-being is key to creating lasting health from the inside out.
One area I’m especially passionate about is regenerative treatments—cuttingedge therapies that help the body heal and rejuvenate itself, promoting collagen production, improving skin texture and offering more natural, long-lasting results. It’s a truly holistic approach to aging
gracefully, and I can’t wait to offer even more of this to my patients.
PATIENT CONNECTION
As an aesthetic nurse practitioner, contributing to a patient’s self-esteem and confidence can be incredibly fulfilling. Building rapport with my patients and witnessing their joy after achieving their aesthetic goals is truly rewarding. For me, health care is rooted in compassion. It is about prioritizing others, supporting their well-being and putting their needs first.
WORK-LIFE BALANCE
Supporting women and moms in the workforce is something I care deeply about. I feel incredibly fortunate to work alongside a powerhouse team of women— many of us moms—who inspire me daily.
SERVICES OFFERED
• Injectables
• Hyaluronic acid gel
• Platelet-rich plasma
• Laser treatments
• Collagen stimulating treatments
As a working mom myself, I understand the importance of balancing family, personal life and career, and I’m proud to create a supportive environment that allows our team to thrive in all areas.
WORDS OF WISDOM
Professionally, I have faced many challenges, such as overcoming self-doubt and balancing work-life responsibilities as a wife and a mom. My words of wisdom for other women facing similar challenges is don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Believe in yourself! Trust in your abilities, and don’t let self-doubt hold you back from something you know you’re meant to do. As far as balancing work and personal life is concerned, it’s not easy. I am always a work in progress. I love my family, and the hardest thing about being a working mom is not always being available. I have learned to lean in to the simple everyday moments together because those are the ones that will last forever.
While I strive to provide the best care possible, I believe the “best” dentist is someone who listens, understands your needs, and works with you to maintain and improve your oral health. My team and I are dedicated to creating a welcoming, comfortable environment where every patient feels valued and well cared for. If you’re looking for a dentist who offers both expertise and compassion, I would be honored to help you on your dental journey!
UTILIZING AI
Dentists are increasingly using artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance diagnostics and create more personalized treatment plans. AI algorithms can detect abnormalities faster and sometimes more accurately, such as cavities, bone loss and even oral cancer—allowing for earlier intervention and tailored preventive care plans.
ADVANCEMENTS IN DENTISTRY
The dental field has evolved quite a bit in recent years due to technological advancements, shifts in patient expectations and broader health care trends. 3D printing is used for crowns, bridges, aligners and even dentures—providing faster turnaround and better customization. CAD/CAM technology enables same-day restorations with computeraided design and manufacturing. Virtual
consultations and remote diagnostics have gained traction, increasing access to care and convenience for patients. Demand for procedures like teeth whitening, veneers and clear aligners (like Invisalign) continues to rise, driven by social media and Zoom culture. Practices are becoming spa-like, and anxiety-reducing techniques (like sedation dentistry or VR headsets) are more common.
MIND-BODY CONNECTION
A person’s mental and emotional state can significantly impact their oral health, and vice versa. This concept emphasizes the holistic nature of dental care, recognizing that factors like stress, anxiety and overall mental well-being can influence oral health outcomes. I have witnessed firsthand the profound relationship between a patient’s mental and emotional well-being and their oral health. This mind-body connection plays a critical role in both the prevention and management of various dental conditions.
One of the most significant ways the mind-body connection manifests in dentistry is through the effects of stress, which can lead to a range of oral health issues. Poor oral health can also take a toll on one’s mental well-being. As dental professionals, it’s important that we recognize the psychological factors affecting our patients and address them as part of their
SERVICES OFFERED
• Preventive & comprehensive dental care
• Invisalign & whitening
• Veneers & crowns
• Implants & dentures
• Laser dentistry & 3D scanning
overall treatment plan. A holistic approach to dentistry not only considers the health of the teeth and gums but also takes into account the emotional and mental wellbeing of the patient.
TREATING SLEEP APNEA
A dentist can help with sleep apnea by providing treatments that improve airflow during sleep, especially for cases of mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. Custom-fitted oral appliances help reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open while you sleep. They work by moving the lower jaw forward, which helps prevent the airway from collapsing. Dentists provide follow-up care to ensure the device fits correctly, is effective and doesn’t cause discomfort or other issues.
Dentists can collaborate with sleep specialist physicians to diagnose and manage sleep apnea. They may recommend certain treatments, including referral for a sleep study, to assess the severity of the condition. Dentists trained in sleep medicine can help identify signs of sleep apnea during regular dental visits, such as worn teeth (from grinding) or signs of airway obstruction. They can also educate patients about lifestyle changes (e.g., weight management, sleeping positions) that may improve the condition. Severe cases may require more extensive interventions, such as CPAP therapy or surgery, often in collaboration with a medical team.
BEACH CITIES MEDICINE
MONA MADANI, MD
520 N. Prospect Ave., Suite 309, Redondo Beach | 424-437-4700 | beachcitiesmedicine.com
ABOUT THE PRACTICE
I am excited to have patients receive personalized, proactive health care. You will always have a direct line to me, whether it is through a call, email or text. You will not feel rushed when you are in the office. You can expect support every step of the way. I want you to feel safe, respected and cared for like a friend or family member, not a number. I am here to help you along your health journey.
A MEDICAL CAREER
Growing up, I knew I wanted a career in medicine. It was something I felt naturally drawn to, even without any direct exposure through family or close relatives. I’ve always had a deep desire to help people— not just physically but emotionally as well. What excites me most about medicine is the opportunity to build long-lasting relationships with patients and support them throughout different stages of their lives.
BUILDING TRUST
I build trust and credibility with my patients by listening actively, showing genuine empathy and being transparent about their care. I make it a point to explain diagnoses and treatment options in clear terms, and I always welcome questions. I follow through with my patients to reinforce that I value their health. I want my patients to feel heard and aware we are working as a team toward their well-being.
FAMILY SUPPORT
My family is incredibly supportive of my work as a physician. My husband is also a physician, and we have developed a partnership where we share responsibilities—particularly when it comes to taking care of our two kids. A balance between work, family and personal life is essential for long-term well-being. Having a solid support system at home makes it possible for me to give my best to both my patients and my loved ones.
TAKING TIME
One of the changes I hope to see—and I am excited to be a part of—is the time for providers to spend with their patients. The system often prioritizes volume over quality, which can lead to rushed visits and missed connections. When we are given the time to truly listen and engage, we can provide more personalized, effective care. This allows us to build trust, and this leads to better outcomes.
SERVICES OFFERED
• Personalized care
• Comprehensive visits
• Personal relationship with your physician
• 24-hour access
• Same-day appointments
WISE WORDS
Medicine as a career path is worth it, but make sure it’s truly what you want. The path to becoming a doctor will involve real highs and lows. It is not just a title—it’s about building meaningful relationships with the people you care for. You’ll need to be useful in different ways, which requires learning to put parts of your personal life on hold, especially during training. It’s not always easy, but it’s deeply rewarding.
A MISSION OF CARE
I believe it’s essential to enjoy the work you do and the people you do it with. I am excited to begin this next chapter of my life and career with Beach Cities Medicine, where our mission is clear: to provide the highest quality of care with compassion, connection and integrity.
I provide both in-person and virtual therapy services to clients of all ages and issues. I use a combination of therapeutic modalities and will mix interventions based on need. I always take a clientcentered approach, focusing on what my clients bring into session each time we meet. I practice a generalist approach and am ready and willing to help anyone who wants to step into the therapy space. I particularly enjoy a motivated client who needs a safe space to process, grow and thrive.
BEST PRACTICES
Clients have shared that they have an improved ability to take on life’s challenges after working with me. They’ve shared their triumphs over performance anxiety, feeling overwhelmed by school and overcoming relational issues. I allow my clients to be themselves in a completely accepting, nonjudgmental space that offers them an opportunity to grow and gain perspective. Newfound perspectives have helped my clients improve their frustration tolerance and grow in their problem-solving abilities across areas of life.
BUILDING TRUST
I build trust with my clients by showing up in the therapy space as my authentic self. As I’ve learned throughout my training, the best therapy comes from genuineness, empathy and unconditional positive regard for each client. For me, those qualities show up with humor, comfort and an engaging, goal-oriented approach.
A THERAPIST’S WORK
The most rewarding part of my job is seeing my clients meet their goals. Whether they want to play better in their sport, overcome health challenges, improve their grades or make it through a tough life transition, I feel so lucky to be a part of
their process. The hardest part of being a therapist is compartmentalizing. We care so much for our clients that it can be challenging to leave therapy at the office.
FINDING SUPPORT
I could not be this far into my career without the unwavering support of my parents, friends and family. They allow me the space to grow as a person and clinician while reminding me to enjoy all the fun life has to offer. Through the best and worst of times, my family is always there to reignite my fire and push me to be my very best. I love them dearly.
EDUCATIONAL JOURNEY
My journey to becoming a psychologist has included a bachelor’s degree from Tulane University and a master’s degree from Pepperdine University. I am completing my doctorate in clinical psychology at Azusa Pacific University. I have trained in both private practice and hospital settings. I was recently a health and neuropsychology extern at MemorialCare Miller Children’s Hospital, and I am a neuropsychology extern with Hoag Memorial Hospital.
CLINICAL SPECIALTIES
I chose to specialize in neuropsychology, health psychology and sports psychology because each one holds a key passion of
SERVICES OFFERED
• In-person & virtual therapy
• Sports psychology
• Health psychology
• College preparation
• Executive function coaching
mine. For neuropsychology, my deep desire to understand the inner workings of the human brain, neuronal connections and functional neuroanatomy is very exciting. For therapy, I love both sports psychology and health psychology because I have used both. I was a five-year NCAA Division I student-athlete, and sports psychology helped me make it through college athletics. As a Type 1 diabetic, I love helping clients with acute and chronic health conditions process and overcome their health challenges from a holistic lens.
CAREER GOAL
My short-term goal is to complete my program and graduate as a doctor of clinical psychology in the coming years. My long-term goal is to become a licensed, board-certified clinical neuropsychologist who offers both assessment and therapy services in either a private practice or hospital setting. I love the field of psychology and hope to teach workshops and classes and create free resources to help the South Bay continue a tradition of excellence.
As I entered my 40s, I noticed some unexpected changes. My body wasn’t responding to workouts like it had, I couldn’t sleep through the night, my inner ears constantly itched (a lesser-known symptom of perimenopause), and I felt increasingly on edge. I went to my doctor but left feeling dismissed and without answers.
So I dove into the research and realized I was in perimenopause. I shared what I’d learned with friends and family, and they wanted to know everything. That’s when it hit me: Women in midlife are drastically underserved. Despite spending four years in medical school, I’d received zero training on menopause.
I decided to do something about it and became a Menopause Society Certified Practitioner. Today I run a private practice focused entirely on women’s midlife health because women deserve care that’s informed, personalized and long overdue.
BUILDING TRUST
So many women feel unheard by their health care providers, and that’s a huge miss when it comes to building trust and creating an effective treatment plan. Too often, care becomes a one-sided directive: “My doctor told me to do this,” instead of a true collaboration between doctor and patient.
That’s why every new patient visit starts with a full one-hour consultation to tell me their story—symptoms, history, lifestyle, family context. We work together to
determine what treatment options make the most sense. I also have check-ins for the first several months so we can make adjustments. This isn’t a “prescribe and disappear” approach. It’s a partnership built on communication, responsiveness and shared decision-making.
TAILORED, SUPPORTIVE TREATMENT
My patients don’t get one-size-fits-all protocols or vague advice; they get tailored hormone therapy plans, comprehensive lab testing, nutrition and body composition assessments, and proactive strategies that are specific to their symptoms, goals and lifestyle. We focus on real-life functionality in real time: improving sleep, stabilizing mood, reducing brain fog, building muscle and supporting sexual wellness— because these aren’t “just menopause symptoms.” They are everyday quality-oflife issues that deserve real solutions.
Another key benefit to my practice is access and continuity. My patients don’t wait weeks for a response or feel dismissed after a five-minute visit. We build relationships over time through longer appointments, regular check-ins and ongoing communication. That sense of support and trust makes all the difference.
PATIENT STORY
One patient, who generously gave me permission to share her story, was an avid runner but started noticing changes. Her body felt foreign, and she felt constantly angry. She started forgetting simple things, and she hadn’t had a good night’s sleep in months. She told me she felt completely disconnected from herself.
We ordered a DEXA scan and ran a full lab panel. We then increased her estrogen and added testosterone. She also made intentional lifestyle changes: upping her protein intake, lifting weights regularly and dialing in her recovery. Within a few months, she was sleeping through the night and feeling more grounded. Her
SERVICES OFFERED
• Hormone replacement therapy
• Perimenopause nutrition, weight management & body composition
• GLP-1 treatment, management & nutrition
• Peptide therapy
• Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy
workouts felt productive again, and—most importantly—she began to feel like herself. Today she’s back to running and is working toward her master’s degree. Watching her reclaim her energy, focus and confidence has been incredibly rewarding.
COMMUNITY FAVORITES
My girlfriends and I love Fishing With Dynamite in Manhattan Beach and The Rex in Redondo Beach. My husband and I just joined the California Surf Club and are so excited to see what’s next for them. I have been receiving treatment from Dr. Annie Chiu at The Derm Institute for years, and I cannot recommend her and her staff enough. My workout go-tos are KIS Training Studios for strength training and SoHo Yoga.
STEVEN K. OKAMOTO, DDS, INC.
STEVEN K. OKAMOTO, DDS & MICHELLE OKAMOTO,
22330 Hawthorne Blvd., Suite E, Torrance | 310-373-1120 | okamotodds.com
QUALITY CARE
Dr. Steve: Our dental practice aims to provide the highest quality of care while operating efficiently. We recently began utilizing a dental AI platform that excels in detecting oral diseases with unmatched precision—educating patients through clear imaging and streamlining the submission, review and approval of insurance claims. This is a powerful advancement in image analysis—an advanced technology that can detect even the most subtle nuances in dental scans, leading to improved identification of issues before they escalate.
PATIENT RELATIONSHIPS
Dr. Michelle: The most rewarding part of our job is undoubtedly the patients. We love what we do and value the long-lasting relationships we create with our patients. I have known some of my patients for over 20 years, and they have witnessed my growth in practice. They are some of my biggest supporters during life’s significant moments, and being their dentist is truly a gift.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Dr. Michelle: Our team stays up to date on the latest developments in dentistry. We incorporate state-of-the-art technology into our practice to enhance our patients’ treatment and comfort. As a patient, you can expect friendly and knowledgeable care from us in a comfortable, high-tech setting designed to make you feel at ease.
BUILDING TRUST AND CREDIBILITY
Dr. Michelle: The best way for patients to trust me as a provider is to spend adequate time getting to know them. We often want to jump into the problem at hand, but taking the time to understand why the patient is in my office, their frustrations or concerns from past dental
experiences, and what they hope for with their next dental home can establish that critical foundation.
ENHANCING THE DENTAL EXPERIENCE
Dr. Steve: Computer software offers patients a glimpse of their future smiles. A virtual smile design tool can predict treatment outcomes based on a patient’s photo. This innovative approach enables effective communication between the patient, dentists and dental laboratory technicians regarding the desired aesthetics of the smile.
AI & DENTISTRY
Dr. Steve: Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer just a buzzword. Influential figures like Stephen Hawking, Bill Gates,
DDS
SERVICES OFFERED
• Comprehensive general dental care
• Aesthetic cosmetic dentistry
• Hygiene & periodontal care
• Conventional & implant prosthodontics
• All-on-X implant prosthodontics
Musk and Jeff
have agreed that AI is comparable to electricity in terms of its potential impact. And dentistry is no exception.
AI represents a significant force poised to transform the dental industry in many ways. Its exceptional ability to analyze extensive datasets facilitates accurate diagnoses, ensuring that each patient receives appropriate care. With sophisticated algorithms, AI can streamline treatment planning by evaluating multiple variables and proposing tailored solutions for individual cases. The potential for enhanced patient outcomes is substantial.
A HEALTH CARE CAREER
Dr. Michelle: I’ve always known I wanted a career in health care, although I didn’t initially consider dentistry. As a child, I explored various fields, including pediatrics, optometry and dermatology, before seriously considering dentistry. As a dentist’s daughter, I wanted to ensure I chose the profession for the right reasons. After spending numerous summer breaks and weekends assisting in both the front and back offices with my dad, my passion for the field began to grow.
I love what I do, but the most challenging aspect of my job is the time away from my family. As a mother of two young daughters, I realize that these early moments with them are fleeting. I strive to find a balance between motherhood and work.
Elon
Bezos
MANHATTAN BEACH FITNESS
ANGELA AMIRI, OWNER
South Bay | 310-403-8720 | manhattanbeachfitness.com | @manhattanbeachfitness
CLIENT BENEFITS
We start from the inside out on day one. I am a certified holistic nutritionist and NASM-certified personal trainer, so there’s zero guesswork in what clients eat or how they train. They cook with recipes that stabilize blood sugar, reduce inflammation and eliminate cravings that cause weight gain. They feel lighter, clearer and in control. Clients learn the science behind 30+ superfoods, herbs and spices that naturally heal metabolism, mood, sleep, digestion and hormones. They can train live with me from home or follow my online strength program. Most midlife women undervalue strength training, but it’s critical for Gen X, millennials and boomers to counter muscle loss and support bone health, mitochondrial function and body fat distribution.
BUILDING TRUST
My first client still trains with me weekly years later, and most new clients come through word of mouth from women who’ve had real transformations. I’ve helped women in every life stage I’ve personally mastered—losing baby weight in their 40s, navigating perimenopause, and managing the effects of declining estrogen on energy and body composition. A few share sessions with their husbands now. With daily accountability in both nutrition and workouts, they’re empowered with game-changing knowledge to take control of their health for life. Many lose 15 to 20 pounds, improve body composition, and learn how to fuel, heal and reverse age their bodies through strength training and
anti-inflammatory meals. Most importantly, they leave with a clear, sustainable path forward—one they can follow for life, not just a season.
IMPROVING HEALTH LITERACY
I’ve designed a science-backed program called the Lean & Clean Reset to educate women in midlife on the gut-brain axis, hormonal weight loss, muscle and bone health. My seminars cover the challenges of postnatal weight loss, perimenopause, menopause and postmenopausal body composition. I’m also working to partner with South Bay businesses to offer nutritional wellness programs. Additionally, I spent the last year collaborating with 26 South Bay restaurants on The 2025 Beach Healthy Dining Guide, featuring over 85 menu items with nutritional breakdowns to help clients make informed dining choices, tracking calories and macronutrient breakdowns of protein, carb and fat grams on recommended menu items. This is my gift to my local clients dining out in the South Bay community, where health and fitness are part of our DNA.
A FOCUS ON WOMEN
In my online nutritional support program, I specifically cater to women ages 40 to 65, offering coaching from the perspective of someone who’s lived through perimenopause and menopause. With over 6,000 hours of one-on-one private training and nutritional coaching, I bring
SERVICES OFFERED
• Gut-healthy nutritional plans
• Hormone-balancing recipes
• Women’s wellness workshops
• In-home workouts
• 2025 Local Beach Healthy Dining Guide
real-life experience to the table. Unlike many nutritionists and trainers under 50 who simply repeat what they’ve read about these hormonal shifts without ever having lived through them, I understand the challenges firsthand. I’ve already been through these life stages and offer real empathy, compassion and relatability to help my clients navigate their own journey.
HEALTHY FAMILY
Health and wellness have become a shared value in our home. I’ve taken my son to the gym with me since he was 7, and now at 17 he genuinely respects the healthy lifestyle we share. He’s taken a real interest in learning about fitness and nutrition and values my advice. As he heads to college soon, he still makes time to walk The Strand with me or run the beach. It’s been amazing to see how this lifestyle has shaped him, and the bond it’s created between us.
Organique opened in February 2025 in the heart of Manhattan Beach. The vision for this space has been with me for years, but it truly began to take form after I returned to California last August, following a decade in Hawai‘i. That time deeply influenced how I see beauty and healing—it taught me the value of presence, nature and soulful connection. Organique is the physical expression of all of that: a sanctuary where skin, spirit and nature come together. We believe that true beauty radiates from within and that skin care should be rooted in intention, integrity and nature. Organique is here to help people reconnect with that sense of wholeness.
THE WHOLE PERSON
I genuinely love what I do, and I pour that love into every moment I spend with my clients. This is more than skin care—it’s a form of care that honors the whole person. My years in Hawai‘i taught me to move slowly, listen deeply and treat beauty as something sacred. That’s what I bring into every treatment. Organique isn’t just a spa—it’s a soul-centered experience. We focus on creating a sense of grounding and restoration, not just results. Every treatment is highly personalized.
A PEACEFUL AMBIENCE
Our space is intimate and calming, and we use only consciously chosen organic products. It feels like an exhale. Soft lighting, organic textures, subtle sound healing and gentle aromas welcome you the moment you walk in. We’ve designed the space to feel like a peaceful, natural retreat—and many of our guests say it instantly shifts their energy. There’s no rush here, only presence.
BUSINESS GROWTH
As a new business, we’re growing beautifully. We’re expanding our treatment menu, hosting curated wellness events and beginning to partner with other likehearted local businesses. It’s an exciting, creative time, and I’m embracing the organic unfolding of it all.
SERVICES OF EXCELLENCE
We never compromise. Every product is organic, cruelty-free and selected for both purity and performance. Every treatment is thoughtfully curated for the individual. We offer more than just services—we offer care that’s deeply intentional and felt.
FROM THE HEART
The key success factors for my business have been authenticity, connection and consistency. I’ve built Organique from the heart, and I think people feel that. The love and intention behind this space have truly been the foundation of its growth. Whether you’re looking for skin care support or just want to explore the space, you’re welcome here. Organique was created with love, and it’s meant to be shared.
A PASSION PROJECT
Everything I offer is a reflection of my passion for skin care. My treatments are not mechanical—they’re intuitive, inspired and constantly evolving. I’m always learning, creating and refining because this work continues to light me up every day.
SERVICES OFFERED
• Organic custom facials
• Firm & sculpt facial
• Natural Radiance makeup
• Brow lamination & tint
• Organic custom massage
WISE WORDS
Beauty doesn’t need to be complicated. Keep it simple, stay consistent and lead with love—for your skin and for yourself. Glow follows care, not perfection.
TOP BUSINESS GOALS
I hope to grow our team with practitioners who share my values, introduce new healing modalities and host more events that bring our community together around beauty and wellness. I’m open to what’s next—whether it’s a second location, a product line, or more wellness collaborations. My focus is on growth that feels aligned and meaningful—expansion, in the most soulful and intentional way.
ARTSCI DENTAL
ANTHONY NGUYEN, DDS & BRYNN MATSUURA, DDS
903 N. Catalina Ave., Suite 103, Redondo Beach | 424-400-5288 | artsci.dental
ELEVATED DENTISTRY
At ARTSCI Dental, every detail of our experience is designed with intention— from state-of-the-art technology to a personalized, minimally invasive approach. Our patients value precision, comfort and collaboration. We don’t just treat teeth— we curate beautiful, functional, longlasting results with care and clarity.
EXPERTISE & INNOVATION
As current faculty at two of the top institutions in the country—UCLA School of Dentistry and USC Department of Veterans Affairs—we’re proud to bring the best of both dental education worlds to our patients. Teaching keeps us on the leading edge of the art and science of dentistry, ensuring our care is always informed, elevated and evolving.
BEYOND THE CHAIR
Our commitment to health extends well beyond the walls of our practice. We actively support local nonprofits like Healing California, provide care at community health fairs and regularly donate our time to serve those in need. One of
our most memorable experiences was a joint mission trip to the Dominican Republic, where we provided life-changing dental care in underserved areas. Whether local or global, we lead with compassion, care and purpose.
A GRATEFUL SMILE
One patient arrived reserved and hesitant; years of hiding his smile had taken a toll. Through a full-mouth rehabilitation that combined implants and aesthetic design, we restored both his smile and his spirit. He now radiates confidence—and that transformation will stay with us forever.
A REWARDING CAREER
There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing a patient fall in love with their smile again. Our greatest challenge is earning trust in an industry where fear is common. That’s why we lead with transparency, comfort and results that speak for themselves.
BLENDING ART & SCIENCE
Dentistry has always been more than a profession for us—it’s a true craft. We’re drawn to the harmony of art, technology and science, where each smile is designed with intention and individuality. By integrating the latest in AI and facially driven smile design with the finesse of human
SERVICES OFFERED
• Cosmetic dentistry
• Oral surgery, implants & periodontics
• Full-mouth rehabilitation
• Guided Biofilm TherapyTM
• Laser & general dentistry
hands, we create results that are not only precise but beautifully bespoke. It’s this blend of innovation and artistry that elevates dentistry into the modern age.
PATIENT EDUCATION
We’re passionate about elevating health literacy. Whether we’re designing a smile makeover or explaining routine care, we take the time to educate our patients. When people understand their health, they’re empowered to invest in it—and that’s where real transformation begins.
SOUTH BAY SANCTUARY
We both grew up in the South Bay, so serving this community feels deeply personal. It’s a privilege to give back to the place that shaped us—caring for longtime friends and family, and welcoming new ones into our circle. This is home—and we’ve designed our practice to reflect the balance, beauty and warmth that define the South Bay lifestyle.
Palos Verdes Estates
Breathtaking ocean and coastline views from this charming Old Spanish home in Malaga Cove. Situated on a huge lot with a large, grassy backyard, this 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom has over 2300 square feet with open living spaces and large decks ... perfect to enjoy the spectacular views!!! $3,799,000
DRE#00967574
5 bedrooms / 5.5 baths
4,326 sq ft
$5,250,000
4005 Via Campesina, Palos Verdes Estates
Taking Time
WHEN GRIEVING A LOSS, BE IT A PERSON OR A HOME, WE OFTEN FIND RENEWED HOPE THROUGH CONNECTION WITH OTHERS.
Written by Karen Maguy
I took my walk along the beach this morning, looked south toward Palos Verdes, then north to Malibu and the Palisades. I remember standing there one afternoon six months ago, watching the ominous white clouds puffing up, turning dark and darker still, the Santa Ana winds blowing the ashes of people’s homes and neighborhoods out into the ocean.
Many of those people are now living here in the little Beach Cities community we call the South Bay. They’ve relocated. What began as a one-week stay at a hotel turned into a six-month leased apartment. And for some, a permanent home.
They’ve enrolled their children in our local schools. They roam the streets, following their car’s nav systems because they don’t know their way around our towns yet. It’s still new to them.
They let their kids hang out in Downtown Manhattan Beach after school because “when in Rome,” they say. They walk along The Strand looking out at the Pacific; they sit on the benches that have someone’s name, the year they were born, the year they died.
They think about the grief they are enduring right here, right now. They wonder about others who have
endured grief in this same spot. Someone’s husband, old-school Hermosa, married for 30 years. Or someone’s son, so loved and with so much promise, only 18 years old when he died. I wonder about them too.
The pain is with us. What makes a difference is to not face it alone. I didn’t write these words alone; they were written sitting alongside my peers.
I volunteer for a grief group called Taking Time: South Bay. Three years ago, co-founders Claire Towle and Patty Ellis started a nonprofit offering individual and group support for adults and children who have experienced grief and are looking to find a way forward.
Grief doesn’t follow a schedule, nor does it look the same for any two people. Yet in the quiet, aching aftermath of loss, one thing often makes all the difference: connection. Asking questions, listening to others’ sorrows, joys and stories. Finding hope.
In a community that celebrates sunshine and strength, Taking Time: South Bay reminds us that vulnerability is part of the human experience—and that healing begins when we give ourselves permission to grieve.
Learn more at takingtime.org. ■
Your Engagement Ring Specialists
As engagement ring specialists we offer a completely different experience—one built on expertise, intention, and personal connection.
When you sit with our expert jewelers you can create a ring as unique as your partner, branded solely with your taste and in your budget. Work with GIA-certified gemologists, and our master jewelers trusted by generations of couples for our depth of knowledge and attention to detail.
Creating a custom engagement ring with us is the beginning of a life long relationship.
MANHATTAN BEACH
1009 Manhattan Ave.
Manhattan Beach, Ca. 90266
Phone: (310) 921-8707
EL SEGUNDO
245 Main Street
El Segundo, Ca. 90245
Phone: (310) 322-8060
LONG BEACH
4814 2nd St
Long Beach, Ca 90803
Phone: (562) 433-8222
NAPA VALLEY
1300 1st St. Suite 365 Napa, Ca. 94559
Phone: (707) 224-0997 bluediamondjeweler.com
Come in and see us for a complimentary jewelry cleaning during the month of June
