Along the edge of the Pacific, Terranea offers space to unwind, reconnect, and experience the coast at its most effortless. Days unfold between oceanfront dining, spa rituals, coastal adventures, and quiet moments by the water—giving you more time to linger. All shaped by a setting that feels open, unhurried, and distinctly Southern California. Plan your oceanfront escape and enjoy a second night, our compliments.
Walk for friendship.
Walk for community.
Walk for kids who need us.
The Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk brings together families and friends to support children with special needs and public education.
SUNDAY
Men’s & Women’s State Championship Race
Kids Races & Kids’ Zone
Manhattan Mile (Men’s & Women’s Elite Race)
Food Stands & Local Exhibits
BACK TO THE BREAK
In 1995, surf music legends reunited at The Lighthouse Café to revive—and preserve—a distinctly Californian sound still resonating today.
THOSE SUMMER NIGHTS
Fill your calendar with upcoming events, both here and beyond The Bubble.
A SEAT AT THE COUNTER
As Manhattan Beach reinvents itself, Uncle Bill’s Pancake House anchors generations with classic meals and lasting connections.
VACATION VIBES
Bring the summer holiday home with these travel-inspired goodies from local boutiques.
PARADISE FOUND
With roots in California’s golden age of escapism, Tiki Kai brings handcrafted cocktails, island flavors and immersive design back to the South Bay.
RESTAURANT GUIDE
Book a reservation at one of these standout South Bay restaurants.
46
CASA Y CORAZÓN
Through fires, closures and decades of change, Jose Lamas and his family keep El Sombrero grounded in making people feel at home.
50 SOFFI’S SPOTLIGHT
@thesouthbayclub’s Soffi Yessmann shares her favorite summer bites from El Segundo to San Pedro. 54
HAPPINESS IS OVERRATED
In a world obsessed with self, a retired fire chief and lifeguard-turned-chaplain shows why serving others leads to something deeper: lasting joy, contentment and peace.
72
Who’s who around the South Bay
MORE THAN WORDS
The Hermosa Beach Friends of the Library Bookstore is doing far more than selling used books. It’s building community, one reader at a time.
Beyond breathtaking vistas in the Santa Ynez Valley, Alexis Zahoudanis is cultivating something deeper: community, family and wines with a sense of place.
COVER Barry Nugent Photographed by Ken Pagliaro
El Porto resident Amanda Lee blends community, intention and Eastern medicine into a deeply personal approach to wellness.
Born from boredom on a rainy afternoon in 1965, pickleball has exploded into a cultural phenomenon that’s transforming recreation, business and community throughout the South Bay.
High in the Austrian Alps, Stanglwirt blends heritage, health and sustainability—guided by the same family for over four centuries.
Former NBA player Chase Budinger traded arenas for the sand, turning a lifelong passion for volleyball into an Olympic career and a new chapter of success.
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Darren Elms
COPY EDITOR Laura L. Watts
DEPUTY EDITORS
Bonnie Graves (Food & Wine), Kara Mickelson (Food Style), Tanya Monaghan (Style), Jennie Nunn (Home)
WRITERS & CONTRIBUTORS
Michele Garber, JR Johnson, Quinn Roberts, Anne M. Russell, Jared Sayers, Jacob Michael Tan, Scott Sanford Tobis, Soffi Yessmann
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Michelle Villas
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Ajay Peckham, Yuiko Sugino
DIGITAL MARKETING Paul Fisher
SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER Shane O’Donnell
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Rian Basilio, Fabien & Laura Castro, Stacey Davis, Jeffrey Fiterman, Jakob N. Layman, Ken Pagliaro, Alexis Peterson
PUBLISHER Jen Turquand 310-528-5351 | jen.turquand@thegoldenstatecompany.com
DIRECTOR OF BRAND PARTNERSHIPS Erika Carrion 310-897-2424 | erika@thegoldenstatecompany.com
DIRECTOR OF BRAND PARTNERSHIPS Marcie Gutierrez 310-947-5404 | marcie@thegoldenstatecompany.com
SOUTHBAY IS A DIVISION OF THE GOLDEN STATE COMPANY
CO-CHAIRMEN
Charlie Koones Todd Klawin
No part of this periodical may be reproduced in any form or by any means without prior written consent from The Golden State Company, LLC. Any and all submissions to this or any of The Golden State Company, LLC publications become the property of The Golden State Company, LLC and may be used in any media. We reserve the right to edit.
SUBSCRIPTIONS: info@goldenstate.is. Subscriptions are $29 per year.
TO OUR READERS: Southbay welcomes your feedback. Please send letters to Reader Response Department, Southbay magazine. Please include your name, address and email. Edited letters may be published.
200 N. Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 110, El Segundo, CA 90245 | goldenstate.is | oursouthbay.com
When Southbay magazine debuted in 2006, the restaurant scene in the South Bay looked a lot different. Longtime local spots kept hungry residents well fed with plenty of great casual fare, along with a handful of fine dining destinations like Guy Gabriele’s beloved Café Pierre. But with a few notable exceptions, most foodies still left The Bubble when they wanted a gourmet dining experience.
What a difference 20 years makes. Chefs like Brooke Williamson, Dave LeFevre, Michael Fiorelli, Darren Weiss, Tin Vuong, David Slay and others introduced a wide range of cuisines and experiences to our communities, transforming the South Bay into a true dining destination. Now people from the Westside, Hollywood and beyond come here for a taste of excellence.
And the new venues keep coming. Stecca Taverna and AttaGirl in Hermosa, Salt & Pearl and Montauk in Redondo, and most recently Coucou in Manhattan Beach—all opened their doors in just the last year or two.
Yet even with all the shiny new arrivals, dozens of old favorites like The Kettle, Pancho’s, El Tarasco, The
Original Red Onion, The Bull Pen and many, many more never go out of style. How could you replace a lunch slice at Mickey’s Deli or a nightcap upstairs at Old Tony’s on the Pier? Hopefully, the answer is never.
In this issue, we celebrate South Bay restaurants— the innovative and the iconic—and the people who keep the plates coming. Some have been around for decades, others for less than a year. But they share a common thread: You only need to drive a few miles to feast on something fabulous.
Also in this issue … a portrait of retired Los Angeles County lifeguard and fire chief-turned-chaplain Barry Nugent; a celebration of the historic The Legends of Surf Guitar at The Lighthouse; the rise of volleyball star Chase Budinger; and a look at how the South Bay is serving the nationwide pickleball craze.
Happy summer!
JARED SAYERS | Jared is a byproduct of the salty waters of the Southern California coastline. He is a South Bay native who somehow found his way into media and publishing, only to discover a love for writing. His subjects vary but all hold one common truth: Their appetite for life is large, and they choose to lead extraordinary lives in very uncommon places.
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.
KEN PAGLIARO | Ken is an internationally recognized commercial, travel and surf photographer based in Southern California. His love of photography, adventure and nature have led him around the world creating images for Patagonia, Nikon, Vans, Coors, Chevrolet and many more. To see more of Ken’s work, follow him on Instagram @kenpagliaro.
This year, Southbay magazine commemorates two decades of celebrating inspiring people, creating meaningful partnerships and curating locally driven storytelling!
Celebrate this milestone with a Partners in Print showcase, a custom advertorial or a display ad.
Also in this issue ...
Featuring beautifully designed South Bay residences, local design inspiration, collected finds and more.
Spotlighting standout entrepreneurs, industry experts and influential community members making an impact.
For more information, contact Jen Turquand at jen.turquand@thegoldenstatecompany.com or 310-528-5351.
For 40 years, Custom Design & Construction has partnered with South Bay homeowners to thoughtfully reimagine kitchens, living spaces, and whole homes. Led by Director of Design Beth Yuen and Designer Chelsea Cutler, our integrated designbuild approach blends intentional planning, refined interior design, and expert construction to create spaces that feel both beautiful and livable now and for years to come.
Discover what’s possible for your home.
IN 1995, SURF MUSIC LEGENDS REUNITED AT THE LIGHTHOUSE CAFÉ TO REVIVE—AND PRESERVE—A DISTINCTLY CALIFORNIAN SOUND STILL RESONATING TODAY.
Written by Tanya Monaghan | Illustrated by Yuiko Sugino
On April 1, 1995, The Lighthouse Café became the unlikely epicenter of a genre born on the California coast. What was billed as a reunion concert evolved into a gathering of surf music pioneers and the next generation of revivalists—all under one roof, playing songs that defined both a sound and a place.
At The Lighthouse, time feels layered. People walk into the Hermosa Pier venue for a drink or to hear a band and find themselves surrounded by decades of music history. And on that night in 1995, history not only lingered in the walls. It also took the stage. Thirty years later, the concert that was captured on audio that night was released as The Legends of Surf Guitar, a reverb-soaked time capsule recorded live inside The Lighthouse and finally made available to a wider audience. Released on July 4, 2025, on vinyl, CD and digital platforms, the album allows longtime locals and first-time listeners alike to step into that room and hear it for themselves.
Surf music came from a very specific time and place: Southern California in the early 1960s. Few genres can trace such a clear origin story—Fender guitars, teenagers chasing waves and musicians translating that feeling into sound. While the genre eventually spread far beyond California, its roots have always remained here.
In the South Bay especially, that connection still feels personal. For John Blair, co-producer of the album and author of The Illustrated Discography of Surf Music, 1961–1965, the performance at The Lighthouse represented a full-circle moment.
“It was an honor,” he says of performing alongside the musicians whose records shaped his early years. “Growing up in Southern California, learning how to play guitar from those records, and then 30 years later standing on stage with those same people—it was kind of mind-blowing.”
By the late 1970s and early 1980s, surf music had already experienced its first revival. Bands like Jon & The Nightriders, The Surf Raiders, The Malibooz and Los Straitjackets reignited interest in instrumental surf music, bringing it back to clubs and college radio. What had seemed only nostalgic felt relevant again.
By the mid-1990s, that momentum was building further. Films like Pulp Fiction introduced surf instrumentals to a new generation. Surf-centric radio shows gained traction, and curiosity around the genre’s origins continued to grow. That’s when producer and radio DJ/host Les Perry, alongside surf legend Paul Johnson, organized what became The Lighthouse Surf Band Reunion.
The lineup brought together original 1960s icons, including The Chantays, The Surfaris and Davie Allan & The Arrows, alongside revival-era musicians and special guests like Bob Dalley and Bob Demmon of The Astronauts. Supporting them was a deeply respected group of backing musicians, including John.
“It wasn’t just a reunion,” John says. “It was the past, present and future of surf music all in one room.”
“There wasn’t much elbow room,” recalls Mark Linett of the packed room at The Lighthouse.
Mark, a three-time Grammy-winning engineer known for his work with The Beach Boys and Red Hot Chili Peppers, attended as a fan and took with him a small digital recording setup. It would prove far more important than anyone realized at the time.
“I just thought it would be fun to record,” he says.
Using one of the earliest digital 8-track recorders— compact enough to go largely unnoticed—Mark and his friend Elliot Easton of The Cars captured the entire performance. There was no grand plan for release at the time, just a sense that the night was worth preserving.
What unfolded inside The Lighthouse wasn’t something that could easily be recreated. It was spontaneous, electric and deeply rooted in shared history. Classics like “Pipeline” and “Wipe Out” blended with newer interpretations. Dancers filled whatever space they could find on the floor, while the music moved seamlessly between generations.
Then the night ended, and the recordings sat untouched for years. Decades later, Mark revisited them and realized what they truly represented. He took the project to Carl Caprioglio, who immediately recognized its potential.
“At first, I wasn’t sure,” Carl admits. “A recording done on the fly in 1995 … you don’t know what you’re going to get. But once I started hearing the mixes, it was clear. It sounded incredible. It didn’t matter what it was recorded on. It held up.”
What followed were years of selecting songs and collaborating to produce the project. The result is an album that preserves a moment that could have easily faded into memory.
Surf music has a way of transporting people. “It reminds me of easy access to the beach,” Carl says. “It has that feeling—it brings you back to a shoreline.”
That emotional connection is part of why surf music continues resurfacing across generations. Without lyrics, it is universal, open to interpretation.
“It’s an alternative to everything else that’s out
there,” John adds.
Even now, the genre continues to thrive—not only in California but around the world. From Japan to Eastern Europe, new surf bands continue emerging, drawn to the music’s simplicity and spirit.
But in the South Bay, it resonates differently because this is where it began—shaped by these beaches, these streets and this rhythm of life.
In 2025, three decades after the original performance, The Lighthouse hosted a kind of reunion tied to the release of The Legends of Surf Guitar. The room filled again. The music played again. And for a moment, time folded in on itself.
Surf music in the South Bay feels alive. It still exists in the venues, the musicians and the community that is connected to the water and the sound that came from it.
Back at The Lighthouse, everything feels familiar. People wander in from The Strand, grab a drink and settle into the same room where all this once unfolded. And now, people no longer need to imagine that night in 1995. They can simply press play and dive in. ■
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FILL YOUR CALENDAR WITH UPCOMING EVENTS, BOTH HERE AND BEYOND OUR BUBBLE.
SOUND SERIES
June 5-August 29
Fridays and Saturdays, 7 to 10 p.m.
Nelson’s at Terranea Resort
Set against sweeping Pacific Ocean views, live music and coastal cuisine combine for sunset gatherings under the stars. terranea.com
CONCERTS IN THE PARK
July 5–September 6
Sundays 5 to 7 p.m.
Polliwog Park, Manhattan Beach
This long-standing community tradition draws residents and visitors for free, family-friendly entertainment and picnicking under the sun. manhattanbeach.gov
MAMMA MIA!
June 23-July 19
Ahmanson Theatre
For over 25 years, people have fallen in love with the characters, story and ABBA music that make this the ultimate feel-good show. centertheatregroup.org
JULY FOURTH FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR WITH THE BEACH BOYS
July 2-4
Hollywood Bowl
The Beach Boys perform chart-toppers from throughout their career, including “Surfin’ U.S.A.” and “I Get Around,” and pay tribute to the 60th anniversary of their album Pet Sounds hollywoodbowl.com
SUMMER CONCERTS ON THE PIER
July 2-August 29
Thursdays and Saturdays, 6 to 8 p.m.
Fisherman’s Wharf, Redondo Beach
Featuring tribute bands, rock, soul, reggae and more at these free weekly concerts on the Redondo Beach Pier. redondopier.com
KARENA MASSENGILL: REVERBERATIONS
Through July 2
Palos Verdes Art Center
Working from a drawing or watercolor, this sculpture artist turns instinctive and emotional ideas into welded steel patterns. See her work on display and meet the artist in person on June 20. pvartcenter.org
JUDY CARMICHAEL TRIO
CABARET JAZZ SUPPER CLUB
August 16, 5:15 p.m.
Harlyne J. Norris Pavilion
Grammy-nominated pianist, vocalist, radio host and humorist Judy Carmichael, nicknamed “Stride” by Count Basie, commands the keyboard with dazzling technique and infectious energy. Joined by Dan Block on clarinet and saxophone and Chris Flory on guitar, she’ll deliver joyful, high-octane jazz filled with swing, spontaneity and charm. palosverdesperformingarts.com
SATURDAY, AUGUST 15, 2026
Westdrift Hotel Manhattan Beach
Featuring: WENDY BURCH
www.CSCSouthBay.org
KTLA HOST, MANAGER OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!
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Global Farms Enterprises | Jim & Joanne Hunter | Donna H. Lee
Signature Estate and Investment Advisors | South Bay Surgeons
Farmers & Merchants Bank | UCLA Health | Alan & Kelli Vieweg
Brian & Pauline Harris | City of Hope - South Bay | Cozen O’Connor
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Written by Jacob Michael Tan | Photographed by Shane O’Donnell
Perhaps the smallest house in all of Downtown Manhattan Beach is a one-story beach bungalow on Highland Avenue, one of the few remaining in the area. Despite its modest footprint and low-slung roof, the blue-trimmed cottage welcomes hundreds of people on any given weekend morning or afternoon. This is Uncle Bill’s Pancake House, a restaurant opened by “Uncle Bill” McElroy in 1961 inside a former walk street home. P. Allen VanAmburgh bought the restaurant in 1973, remodeled the place a bit and added a few tables. The family still owns the property today, more than 50 years later. On any summer morning, the draw is as much about nostalgia as it is about food.
Upon arrival, guests pass through a small blue door that reveals one of Uncle Bill’s defining features: the seating area at a compact diner counter. Though often overlooked today, this counter served the majority of the restaurant’s patrons until 2000, when the neighboring barbershop closed and allowed for expansion. The remaining seats fill quickly, and the space hums with activity as waitstaff move through the narrow galley in practiced coordination, balancing colorful plates piled high with classic breakfast fare.
The walls are lined with family Christmas cards and photographs of longtime regulars, many of them familiar faces within the community. The room feels
lived-in, layered with decades of shared memory.
A plate arrives: two muffins, generously buttered, alongside a hot drink. It is a simple order—one this writer has ordered since age 6. The exchange with server Summer is easy, familiar. Conversations between staff and guests feel less transactional and more like reunions.
That sense of continuity is no accident. Many of Uncle Bill’s team members have worked there for years, even decades. Names like Gloria, Greg and Maria have become part of the restaurant’s fabric, their presence woven into its identity. You may spot a Mira Costa student hosting on weekends or during school vacations.
Summer has been a server at Uncle Bill’s for nine years. When asked why she has stayed, her eyes flicker around the room. She shares that it’s all the team members, regulars and eager diners who make Uncle Bill’s so unique.
“I’ve formed such deep connections with a lot of people, and they feel like family to me,” she says. “You don’t get that at a lot of places. I know their names. I know what’s going on with them.”
The restaurant’s reach extends far beyond the beach.
Vacationers return year after year, making Uncle Bill’s a fixed stop in their travels. It’s a place people remember, and more importantly, a place they come back to.
Manhattan Beach itself has changed dramatically over the past 65 years. What once served as a coastal stopover has evolved into a destination, shaped by constant growth and redevelopment. Buildings are remodeled or replaced, familiar storefronts disappear, and new structures rise in their place. Even local landmarks, from restaurants to schools, have been reimagined, leaving little untouched.
Yet amid this steady transformation, Uncle Bill’s remains. Its presence offers something increasingly rare: continuity. The blue swivel chairs, the well-worn counter and the familiar rhythm of the room hold traces of countless mornings spent there. Generations have passed through its doors, each leaving behind a small imprint.
The coastline itself offers a fitting metaphor. To live along the shore is to understand impermanence, to accept that everything built on sand will eventually be reshaped by the tide. And yet certain places endure— not unchanged, but steadfast in spirit.
Uncle Bill’s is one of them. ■
BRING THE SUMMER HOLIDAY HOME WITH THESE TRAVEL-INSPIRED GOODIES FROM LOCAL BOUTIQUES.
1. Capri Dolce Vita by Assouline, $105. Letters from Capri at Malaga Cove, lettersfromcapri.com
2. Voyage et Cie 14-ounce candle in Bali Gardenia, $70. Gum Tree in Hermosa Beach, gumtreela.com
3. Roman Holiday framed art print by Bo Bridges (24x36), $1,300. Bo Bridges Gallery in Manhattan Beach, bobridgesgallery.com
4. Bank Trunk in Moonlight Silver by FPM Milano, $2,450. Bespoke by Chase in Manhattan Beach, bespokebychase.com
5. TravisMathew Charted snapback hat, $44.95. ActivFever in Redondo Beach, activefever.com
6. Palm Royale mahjong tile set, $475. Tabula Rasa Essentials in Manhattan Beach, tabularasaessentials.com
7. Electric Oasis crossbody bag, $189.90. Forma in Hermosa Beach, forma.la
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WITH ROOTS IN CALIFORNIA’S GOLDEN AGE OF ESCAPISM, TIKI KAI BRINGS HANDCRAFTED COCKTAILS, ISLAND FLAVORS AND IMMERSIVE DESIGN BACK TO THE SOUTH BAY. Written by Darren Elms | Photographed by Jakob N. Layman
It may look Polynesian, but the tiki bar is distinctly rooted in California—a blend of fantasy, escapism and fascination with the South Pacific. In 1933, Don the Beachcomber—the first true tiki bar—opened in Hollywood, transporting patrons far from the hardships of the Great Depression.
Trader Vic’s, credited with creating the mai tai, helped ignite a global trend, inspiring tiki bars across the country from the 1940s through the ’60s. Today, mid-century nostalgia keeps those oversized ceramic vessels filled—and potent.
Now Hermosa Beach joins the party with the opening of Tiki Kai on the pier. Yet tiki culture is not new
to the South Bay. In fact, the new establishment nods to Lawndale’s Tiki Kai Restaurant of the 1960s. “Kai” translates to “sea” or “ocean” in Hawaiian.
“We feel this is a full-circle moment for Hermosa Beach,” shares co-owner Brian Eldridge. “The Lighthouse originally opened its doors as a tiki bar, so it has taken nearly 100 years for another tiki restaurant to join the Hermosa community. We feel incredibly lucky to stand alongside the legendary bars and restaurants that have defined the pier for decades.”
Alongside Tiki Kai partners Patrick Mescall and Dennis Doody, Brian first debuted a tropical escape in Torrance: The Hula Hula Room.
“A dedicated tiki cocktail lounge, it served as our proof of concept and gave us the inspiration to dream bigger,” he says. “The success of that intimate space gave us the courage to expand our vision and create a full-service tiki restaurant and bar experience in Hermosa Beach.”
For the immersive Tiki Kai, the trio partnered with
Davis Ink, an award-winning design firm based in Costa Mesa. Their portfolio spans the globe, from Southern California to international destinations.
According to Brian, three things drew them to the team: “First, their incredible work on a premier tiki restaurant in San Diego. Second, their bold ‘WTF’ design philosophy. And finally, the fact that they are a husband-and-wife duo who truly live the lifestyle— right down to the ‘Tiki Oasis’ in their own backyard.”
Patrons enter through a massive 14-foot tiki mouth, complete with glowing red eyes, custom-crafted by Asmar Studio of Gardena.
“From the exterior to the deepest corners of the interior, every piece of wood was hand-carved by legendary artist Tiki Tony,” Brian shares. “We are incredibly proud to showcase his largest project to date, featuring more of his signature carvings than any other location.”
Inside, the space delivers all the hallmarks of tiki culture: skulls mounted on bamboo, thatched roofs and
colorful floating glass lamps. Guests can gather at the lively bar, settle into intimate tables or spacious booths, or on a perfect evening, sip a Dole Whip on the pierfacing patio.
Kyle Rioux is the visionary behind the restaurant’s tropical cocktail program.
“His passion for tiki culture isn’t just a hobby; it’s a craft,” says Brian, who first partnered with Kyle at The Hula Hula Room. “Seeing his talent firsthand, we knew he was the only choice to bring our latest vision to life. He’s a true genius in mixology and tiki history.”
Evoking the flavors of the Pacific, the menu is a journey in itself, with favorites like Firecracker Shrimp and Macadamia Mahi Mahi. Of course, no tiki bar would be complete without a pupu platter, and the customizable selection—offering three to five items—remains a crowd favorite.
The cocktail menu pays homage to both Don the Beachcomber and Trader Vic’s, featuring classic drinks
alongside original creations. Each is crafted with respect for traditional recipes and small-batch producers.
Tiki Kai recently introduced a brunch menu, packing the patio just in time for summer. The kitchen offers classic breakfast staples with a playful island twist, including Short Rib Hash, Island Pancakes (with mascarpone whipped cream, macadamia nuts and sliced bananas) and Steak & Eggs. Brunch cocktails include the Bloody Mariko–a tiki take on the Bloody Mary—and Celtiki Coffee.
Brian recalls the buzz leading up to opening day. “It was amazing to hear all the rumors on the pier about our interior design, the menu and our opening date,” he says. “Now that our doors are open, I’m happy to say we’ve surpassed all expectations.”
And his go-to libation? “A mai tai is the soul of any great tiki bar. We stay true to the legend by using the original 1944 recipe created by Trader Vic himself.” ■
With over 40 years of experience creating beautiful, luxurious, curated design. We specialize in skillfully enhancing and completing your vision and producing an environment that is harmonious and unique.
Whether commercial or residential, from contemporary to traditional, modern or transitional. Our Mission is to “Create Beautiful Environments and have Happy Clients”. Contact me at: 310.345.1937 to arrange a complimentary consultation. drichardsinteriors.com |
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.
Same Bettolino you love—now even better, with a beautiful new private event space and covered terrace. Perfect for celebrations, gatherings and elevated dining experiences.
211 Palos Verdes Blvd., Redondo Beach
310-375-0500
bettolinokitchen.com @bettolinokitchen
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
Join us for lunch and dinner to enjoy premium steak and seafood selections paired with innovative starters, trendy cocktails and unparalleled hospitality.
Manhattan Village 3110 Sepulveda Blvd., Manhattan Beach 310-683-4080 boasteak.com | @boasteak_mb
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
A neighborhood bistro celebrating French aperitif culture through classic cocktails, thoughtful food and lively hospitality. Blending tradition with seasonal California ingredients in an elegant, relaxed setting.
1131 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach
424-237-2024
coucou.la | @bar.coucou
Serving the freshest seafood in the South Bay since 1976. Multiple indoor-outdoor patios and seafood delivered daily. Celebrating our 50th anniversary in the heart of King Harbor.
209 N. Harbor Drive, Redondo Beach 310-372-7703
captainkidds.com | @captainkidds
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
Framed by panoramic ocean views, we showcase New American cuisine with a coastal twist, featuring seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and an elevated dining experience.
100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes 866-690-6821
terranea.com/dining/catalina-kitchen @terranearesort
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
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
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
Set along the oceanfront, we offer California fare, outdoor fire pits, sweeping sunset views and a warm, inviting setting ideal for relaxed coastal dining.
100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes 866-690-6821 terranea.com/dining/nelsons @terranearesort
Eat, drink, chill. A local family-owned spot featuring fresh, homemade food, an extensive menu, a welcoming atmosphere, sports on TV, a full bar and dog-friendly patio.
525 S. Pacific Coast Hwy., Redondo Beach 310-540-7403
redondobeachgrill.com @redondobeachgrill
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
A family-run deli offering a wide range of sandwiches, breakfast burritos, 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
The South Bay’s newest oceanfront Mexican restaurant, located in King Harbor Marina. Book your next private event in our oceanfront CANTINA Room (shown above).
207 N. Harbor Dr., Redondo Beach
310-374-2689
info@therivmexcantina.com @therivmexcantina
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
Voted the best Mexican food in the South Bay Now celebrating our 30th anniversary (1996–2026). Enjoy our famous fish tacos and margaritas on multiple outdoor patios.
1615 S. Pacific Coast Hwy., Redondo Beach
310-540-2501
therivmex.com @therivmex
Satisfy your sushi fix with us for lunch and dinner, or get your favorites delivered straight to your door.
Manhattan Village
3110 Sepulveda Blvd., Manhattan Beach
310-683-4060
sushiroku.com
@sushirokumb
Seasonal cuisine, innovative cocktails, hundreds of handpicked whiskeys, masterfully curated wine list. Private dining room. Serving lunch, dinner, weekend brunch, weekday social hour.
Manhattan Village 3160 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Suite S100, Manhattan Beach | 310-759-3160 saintandsecond.com | @saintandsecond
Honoring Piedmont’s and Liguria’s rich culinary crossroads with Executive 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
A private library of exceptional Wagyu—rare selections, meticulously curated, reserved for those who value true distinction.
1937 Pacific Coast Hwy., Lomita 424-263-5373 steakslibrary.com @the_steaklibrary
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
The South Bay’s original gastropub, with locations in Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach and Manhattan Beach. Locally owned since 2011.
1707 S. Catalina Ave., Redondo Beach
418 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach 1209 Highland Ave., Manhattan Beach eatrockefeller.com | @eatrockefeller
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
A refined tiki bar and restaurant featuring a bold, playful menu of dinner, brunch and late-night bites, with an expertly designed cocktail program and top-tier hospitality.
73 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach 310-374-3822 tikikai.com @tikikaihb
Wildly fresh. Deeply rooted. From the family behind Bettolino Kitchen, serving organic bowls, wraps, salad jars and smoothies seed oil-free, mostly gluten-free.
24631 Crenshaw Blvd. #C, Torrance 424-378-1015
eatwildroots.com @eatwildroots
Written by Tanya Monaghan | Photographed by Shane O’Donnell
Walking into El Sombrero feels like returning to the home of an old friend. On a busy Friday afternoon, the familiar arches on Manhattan Avenue open into something increasingly rare: authenticity. The hum of conversation, the clatter of plates, and the scent of warm tortillas and grilled carne asada create an atmosphere that feels warm and unchanged, almost suspended in time.
Jose Lamas stands behind the counter in his crisp white uniform, his signature mustache framing an easy smile. He greets guests with a handshake that makes them feel instantly welcome.
Inside, painted murals stretch across the walls, rich with color and culture. Sombreros hang overhead, while bright Mexican flags drape across the ceiling. The space feels festive without trying too hard, authentic in a way that cannot be manufactured. Among the décor is a painting of Jose as a young boy standing in a field—a quiet reminder of where the story began.
The restaurant buzzes with activity. Teenagers stop in after school, families gather around tables and longtime locals walk in without needing menus. Jose greets many customers by name, often with the phrase “Welcome home.”
El Sombrero’s story began in 1975, when Jose’s father, Felipe Lamas, partnered with businessman Arek Abramyan to open a small Mexican restaurant just down the street from its current location. At the time, Felipe worked as a cook at El Tarasco.
After returning from a trip to Mexico, he discovered his position had been filled. Soon after, an opportunity emerged to build something of his own. That unexpected setback became the foundation of El Sombrero.
The original restaurant, remembered by many as a pink building near the La Mar Theatre on Manhattan Beach Boulevard, operated for five years before moving
to its current home on Manhattan Avenue in 1980. Jose was still a teenager then, spending time around the restaurant long before officially working there.
“I started when I was about 17,” he says, “but I used to come every day before that.”
When Felipe passed away in 1990, Jose stayed and learned every part of the business. In 2005 he purchased the Manhattan Beach location, keeping it in the family.
His brother Raul took over the second El Sombrero location in Artesia, which had opened years earlier.
Today Jose works alongside his son, Jose Jr., who grew up much the same way: around the restaurant, learning simply by being there.
“This place is like family,” Jose says. “The people, the customers … everybody.”
That sentiment is noticeable throughout the restaurant. Kids move comfortably between tables. Regulars are greeted warmly. No one seems out of place.
The walls tell much of El Sombrero’s story.
Photographs line the restaurant, capturing decades of ordinary and meaningful moments. Children who once sat in booths now return with families of their own. Couples who first came here years ago still do.
One framed school essay, written by a young customer named Jake, describes El Sombrero as his favorite restaurant. He writes not only about the food but about the feeling of being there: the warmth, the familiarity and the sense that the place matters.
For generations of South Bay families, El Sombrero has been woven into everyday life. It is where people gathered after school, after the beach or after games. Parents trusted it as a place where kids could safely spend an afternoon with a few dollars and leave happy.
Jose remembers a moment that reflected that confidence. It is a simple story, but it captures everything
the restaurant represents.
“I remember two kids, maybe 10 years old, who came in alone,” he says. “They told me their mom dropped them off and would come back later. I felt very happy because they trusted us.”
In 2006, the restaurant’s future was shaken when a fire forced it to close. The building had to be completely rebuilt, and for three years El Sombrero sat dark.
When it reopened in 2009, there was no guarantee customers would return. Time moves quickly in the South Bay. Habits change. Restaurants come and go.
But during the years it was closed, customers stayed connected through small, meaningful gestures. Children sent postcards. Families checked in. The bond had not disappeared. El Sombrero rebuilt itself slowly and steadily, “little by little,” as Jose describes it.
Years later, the pandemic brought another wave of uncertainty. Like many small businesses, El Sombrero shifted to takeout service while navigating closures, restrictions and constant unpredictability. Outdoor dining offered a temporary lifeline, though not without challenges.
But the same thing that carried the restaurant through the fire carried it through the pandemic: community. Regulars continued showing up. One customer quietly offered financial help when it was needed most. The foundation held.
There has never been a grand strategy behind El Sombrero’s longevity. No dramatic reinvention. No trend-driven pivot. Its success comes down to authenticity, warmth and care.
Jose still shops for ingredients himself. He still moves through the restaurant with purpose. He still greets customers like guests in his own home.
“I love the kids,” he says. “I start with them when they are babies.”
For him, the restaurant has never been about turning tables. It has always been about building relationships that last for decades.
By the end of the afternoon, El Sombrero is just as full as it was earlier. Orders are called out from the kitchen. Kids laugh between tables. Someone waves to
Jose from across the room, and he waves back without missing a beat.
“See you mañana,” he calls out, a phrase that has become something shared between Jose and the community, exchanged from car windows and across sidewalks.
In a town that is constantly evolving, El Sombrero has endured by remaining exactly what it has always been: a place to gather and to return to. It still feels like home. ■
@THESOUTHBAYCLUB’S SOFFI YESSMANN SHARES HER FAVORITE SUMMER BITES FROM EL SEGUNDO TO SAN PEDRO.
The Bay Scallops come light, elegant and full of bright flavor. Ponzu, tangerine, pistachio and olive oil create a citrusy balance that lets the scallops truly shine. 921 S. Beacon Street in San Pedro
The Birria Breakfast Burrito is packed with crispy tater tots, fluffy scrambled hen eggs, melted artisan cheese, creamy avocado and queso fresco all wrapped in a handcrafted flour tortilla. The rich, slow-cooked birria takes it completely over the top. 450 Main Street in El Segundo Vista
Summer shines in the Charred Watermelon Salad. Sweet, charred watermelon, creamy burrata, Thai basil, macadamia nuts and pomegranate vinaigrette come together for a fresh, vibrant bite that’s almost too pretty to eat. 11 Pier Avenue in Hermosa Beach
Explore more guides at thesouthbayclub.com
The Chicken Khao Soi is rich, creamy and packed with flavor. Tender chicken and coconut curry noodles are topped with crispy egg noodles, fresh herbs and fried chili for the ultimate comfort dish. 215 S. Pacific Coast Highway in Redondo Beach
The Coconut Poke Bowl serves a tropical twist on poke, beautifully presented inside a fresh coconut shell and paired with a chilled shot of coconut water on the side. It’s light, refreshing and feels like a mini island escape with every bite. 1727 S. Catalina Avenue in Redondo Beach
The Soft Serve Sundae offers a grown-up take on a childhood favorite. Strauss Family Creamery’s organic soft serve, topped with chocolate hard-shell, almonds and Luxardo cherries makes for the perfect ending to any beach day. 1131 Manhattan Avenue in Manhattan Beach.
The Loaded Hummus is hearty enough to steal the spotlight from the main course. Creamy hummus topped with ribeye or chicken, feta, tomatoes, chickpeas and garlic sauce makes every scoop with pita bread worth it. 1902 S. Pacific Avenue in San Pedro
This is a playful spin on Sweet Potato Fries with a waffle cut, dusted in cinnamon sugar and served with whipped cream. It’s the perfect sweet-and-salty snack to pair with a beer by the beach. 1200 Hermosa Avenue in Hermosa Beach
Ed Powell of Guzman Law Group helps South Bay businesses secure capital, manage risk and grow with confidence in today’s unpredictable economy.
WRITTEN BY DARREN ELMS | PHOTOGRAPHED BY MARISA GUZMAN-ALOIA
Aboutique firm built on community, collaboration and trust, Guzman Law Group and its team of professionals have long been a steady, reliable presence for local businesses, guiding clients through transactional matters, estate planning, litigation, intellectual property and more for 30+ years.
Since joining Guzman Law Group in 2014, attorney Ed Powell has built a reputation as a strategic, approachable legal advisor for businesses navigating the increasingly complex world of funding and finance. With experience spanning securities offerings, capital structures, commercial lending and acquisition financing, Ed helps firms move forward with clarity and confidence, securing the resources they need to grow while minimizing unnecessary risk.
“We help clients find a legal solution to their business needs,” he explains, “whether it’s raising capital for a new venture, borrowing money to fund operations or buying a complementary business.”
From start-ups seeking investors to established businesses pursuing expansion opportunities, Ed works closely with clients, taking the time to understand their vision and structuring financing solutions that align with each client’s long-term goals.
One area where Ed’s experience proves especially valuable is in alternative financing strategies. When traditional lending channels such as bank or SBA financing are unavailable or impractical, he helps buyers and sellers explore thoughtful, creative options, including seller financing
and private lending arrangements. These paths often open doors to a cost-effective solution that once felt out of reach.
In today’s unpredictable economic climate, businesses are facing new financial pressures, from fluctuating revenues to rising operational costs. It is often in these uncertain moments that Ed’s guidance becomes especially meaningful. He believes adaptability is essential.
“When there are challenges in the economy and revenue is not increasing as planned, or unexpected needs arise, we help clients navigate various possibilities to fund their businesses,” he says.
This may include raising capital through new shareholders, negotiating institutional lending or exploring alternative financing sources designed to preserve flexibility and reduce exposure to unnecessary risk.
Ed’s depth of experience distinguishes Guzman Law Group in the community despite its boutique size. “Although we are a small firm, our attorneys have ‘big firm’ expertise,” Ed notes.
The team has represented financial institutions ranging from global banks to regional credit unions and small commercial lenders, giving them insight into how transactions are structured from every angle.
Because Ed understands both borrower and lender expectations, he can often streamline transactions by avoiding impractical demands and focusing on balanced, real-world solutions.
“Our experience on both sides of these transactions ensures that we do not waste
time on unreasonable expectations or arguments,” he explains.
Ed also believes successful transactions depend as much on mindset as legal strategy. While financial negotiations can sometimes become contentious, he emphasizes collaboration over conflict. “Unlike some fields such as litigation, results from securities offerings and financial transactions can be a win-win for both our clients and their counterparties,” he says.
That philosophy shapes the firm’s approach to every matter. Through calm negotiation, practical guidance and creative problem-solving, Ed strives to help all parties reach agreements that support lasting business relationships. In many cases, those relationships continue well beyond a single deal.
Serving the South Bay business community adds another layer of diversity to Ed’s work. The region’s economy spans multiple industries, which keeps the work both dynamic and rewarding. Ed’s experience in most industries helps him adapt to the needs of each in developing legal solutions for clients.
This flexibility has made Ed a go-to trusted advisor, and for many clients, he is more than legal counsel. He is a long-term partner in their success.
GUZMAN LAW GROUP, PC 111 N. SEPULVEDA BLVD., SUITE 250-22 MANHATTAN BEACH 310-321-6640 GUZMANLG.COM
IN A WORLD OBSESSED WITH SELF, A RETIRED LIFEGUARD AND FIRE CHIEFTURNED-CHAPLAIN SHOWS WHY SERVING OTHERS LEADS TO SOMETHING DEEPER: LASTING JOY, CONTENTMENT AND PEACE.
Written by Jared Sayers | Photographed by Ken Pagliaro
The baby is crying again. I unzip the tent and step outside in the early twilight hours of the morning, feeling fallen pine needles between my toes from the ponderosa canopy covering Yosemite Valley. I’m blearyeyed. I didn’t sleep last night, as my 8-month-old teething daughter had other plans.
I’m on the verge of lulling her back to sleep outside the tent, doing the daddy-daughter bounce. Delicately, delicately, bounce, bounce … bounce … and then— boom. Back asleep.
Whew. A moment of quiet. Ah. Everything is still. Just then, off in the distance, a faint yet peculiar sound. A squeaky wheel? A bike pedal in need of WD40? Odd. With the entire campground still asleep and the first light of day leaking in, I catch a fuzzy glimpse of something far off in the distance—a moving object. As it gets closer, it starts to take shape. A figure … riding a bike? Yes … someone on a bike … wait … a Strand cruiser?
As the figure comes into focus, I see it is a gentleman gliding down a slight grade through the Upper Pines Campground on his bike, freely carving S-turns with a grin across his face like the cat who ate the canary. A large, barrel-chested, white-haired individual, dressed in a fleece jacket, sunglasses, board shorts and flipflops (on a 52º morning). In a world all his own, filled with joy and ease, he carves his bike like a warm ice cream scoop cuts the surface of a freshly opened gallon of Dreyer’s.
I’m locked in. Slowly, those carves begin to veer in my direction. As he gets closer, I can see he has a towel over his shoulder and a toothbrush in his mouth. As he whizzes by, no more than 10 feet away, I catch his eye. A smirk peeks out from beneath his white mustache that seems to say, “Well, nice of you to wake up, sunshine. How was your beauty rest?”
I was hooked. That is how I met Barry Nugent
Barry’s father, a unit manager at NBC, and his stay-at-home mother raised Barry in Westchester, California. They would often find themselves at the beach, where young Barry routinely played in the surf. Being the charismatic type, he soon befriended a local lifeguard who surfed before his shift and would leave Barry “in charge” of the tower, asking that he call him in 10 minutes before his shift started.
Barry remembers looking out over the water from the closed lifeguard tower, pretending it was his water to be responsible for, and that everyone would make it home safely while he was the guy on duty. That’s where it all began. Over 64 years ago, a 10-year-old boy in a tower imagined what it meant to protect and serve his community.
Fast-forward: Barry joined the ranks of the Los Angeles lifeguards in 1969, working the beaches of El Segundo and Dockweiler as a recurrent lifeguard before being promoted to permanent status in April 1972 and working all up and down the Los Angeles coastline.
Barry later became a paramedic lifeguard and helped launch the lifeguard paramedic program in Zuma. You could write a book with his stories (which he has, and its release is scheduled for the latter half of this year). From stories of rescuing people from imminent danger to quite literally dragging some from death back into life, Barry has them all.
That night around the Yosemite campfire, Barry told a story about being at Zuma headquarters during galeforce conditions when a call came in: a 21-foot vessel, about 10 miles offshore, with two people on board—one experiencing full cardiac arrest. Barry and his crew boarded Baywatch Malibu and headed 10 miles out into the blustery Pacific. They reached the vessel and linked up with a Coast Guard helicopter, where Barry was hoisted up into the helo along with the patient.
As he told the story, you could see his eyes change— his pupils dilating, back in the action, right there in the pocket. And again, that infectious smile began to peer out from beneath the white mustache as he told it, like that 10-year-old kid left in the tower to watch the water.
A hundred feet up, with a patient pulled from a boat in a windstorm—pulseless and not breathing—Barry
Over 64 years ago, a 10-year-old boy in a tower imagined what it meant to protect and serve his community.
began resuscitation efforts. He regained a pulse, reestablished breathing and directed the Coast Guard to the nearest trauma center, ultimately saving the life of a perfect stranger.
When asked about the incident, he smiles and replies, “I dunno, I’m just glad I was there to help.”
By 1986, Barry pivoted to the fire side, working his way up through the ranks and eventually becoming assistant fire chief for the entire Los Angeles County Fire Department. There he served the L.A. community for a number of years before heading back to the lifeguard division in 2012, where he served as chief lifeguard and then retired in 2014.
When you retire, you join the country club, right? Or at least head down to the Elks Lodge every Tuesday to talk about the good old days and throw back a couple of suds? No judgment there—just not Barry’s style.
Today Barry serves as the L.A. County fire chaplain. The stories may look a little different, but they’re no less dramatic and, dare I say, even more impactful.
When someone in the fire or lifeguard service passes away, who shows up at the family’s house? Who leads their memorial service? When the family is left with no answers in their darkest hour, who shows up? Barry.
And in case you were wondering … no, this is not a paid position. It’s a choice—to continue to serve others.
Let’s be clear: this isn’t simply a story about why Barry chooses to make such admirable life decisions. No, no. Like everyone, he openly admits he has flaws. But there’s a larger narrative here.
We live in a world that tells us we deserve to be happy. We deserve more. Do what we want, when we want, and somehow, somewhere along that journey we’ll be able to tap into this thing called happiness from time to time. If I just get this many likes, if I just make this amount of money, if I just get this many followers, if people would just see it my way, why can’t people just vote like I do? Starting to sound familiar? It starts with us. And it ends with us.
I think Chaplain Barry would prescribe something a little different: Start with others. Risk for others. Step into the hard for others. Serve them because you can … besides, life is a gift.
Just ask any cancer survivor or someone who is terminally ill, and they will tell you the same. Life is not a guarantee; it’s actually quite fragile—a fragile gift that was never owed to begin with. So it may as well be shared and enjoyed.
And to answer all those wondering, “Well, what’s in it for me?” One, you’re still not really getting it, but two, get rid of the notion of being happy. It’s so fleeting and will always leave you disappointed. Instead, risk that your investment in others, slowly over time, will return things like contentment, joy and ease.
Contentment vaporizes things like anxiety and depression. Joy is a permanent, redemptive gift of buoyancy despite your external circumstances. Ease … oh man, ease allows for those long, drawn-out S-turns on your pedal bike down the Yosemite Valley floor.
The chaplain has all three. More than just about anyone I know. And he freely spills it back out on everyone he comes in contact with. It’s a beautiful, faith-centered cycle, rooted in a servant’s heart that creates a ripple effect that reaches far beyond perceived outcomes.
That night in Yosemite Valley, after Barry serves his signature chili dogs for dinner, we sit around the campfire while he continues to hold court. For the first time, I see it with my own eyes. In the air hangs a deep sense of contentment. Joy sits at the surface of everything. Ease whistles through the ponderosas above.
As things begin to quiet down and the day begins to fade, I can see Barry just past the campfire—relaxed in a beach chair, his granddaughter asleep on his shoulder. He looks over, and I catch his eye once again. That same grin slips out from under his mustache, and it says everything.
“It’s all worth it. Service compounds love. And love makes happiness look so futile. Keep going; there’s so much more.”
And with that, he shuffles off into the Yosemite night to quietly retreat to his tent with his wife, Joanie, deeply content because today was yet another very, very good day.
Thank you, Barry, for your life of service. The ripple effects have gone far beyond your imagination, and for that, your community is grateful. ■
Looking beyond the numbers as retirement approaches.
WRITTEN BY CAROL WILSHIRE, CFP ® | PHOTOGRAPHED BY FABIEN & LAURA CASTRO
Retirement planning is a team sport. Many couples do an admirable job of planning financially for retirement. They save, invest and ultimately implement a plan to ensure financial security, usually with the help of a trusted financial advisor. But navigating life in retirement can present other challenges. Even in the strongest marriages, retirement can reveal differences that money alone cannot reconcile. One spouse may dream of finally being able to travel the world, while the other longs to spend their time at home gardening or babysitting the grandchildren. Perhaps one spouse wants to continue to work, as it provides a sense of purpose and fulfillment. However, this may come as an unwelcome surprise to their partner.
No two individuals are completely in sync, and their differences can become magnified in retirement. While spouses may be financially ready to retire, they may be emotionally unprepared to do so. Open, honest communication early in the retirement planning process can go a long way toward smoothing this major life transition. Failure to communicate while planning for retirement may signal even greater relationship risk. While the overall divorce rate in the United States has declined steadily since 1980, divorce for seniors, known as gray divorce, has increased. According to Bowling Green State University National Center for Family & Marriage Research,
“HELPING COUPLES ALIGN THEIR FINANCES WITH A SHARED VISION BRINGS SATISFACTION AND MEANING TO THE RETIREMENT JOURNEY.”
divorce for those ages 65 and older has tripled since 1990.
A holistic financial advisor can play a valuable role in facilitating conversations to allow both partners to share their vision of what retirement looks like for them. Both partners can express why they are choosing retirement now and discuss the specific activities they envision for themselves on a daily, weekly or monthly basis.
The advisor can encourage couples to discuss experiences that they would like to share in retirement, as well as activities they would like to pursue independently—“we time” versus “me time.” Couples will not have identical goals, nor should they. But through open and honest communication, they can achieve compatibility to move forward in their retirement journey.
When financial advisors facilitate these conversations, it transforms them from portfolio managers to life coaches. They provide a platform for spousal engagement that no algorithm or robo-advisor can ever match.
Lifestyle conversations can and should take place alongside financial discussions leading up to retirement. Preparing financial projections is crucial, as they reveal the probability of achieving certain financial goals during retirement years, such as the amount of net income a couple may receive annually.
But just as important is identifying the activities and lifestyle that the couple’s finances must support going forward. If traveling the globe will be a shared pursuit, planning to fund that travel needs to be
factored into a couple’s pre-retirement planning. Additional saving and investing before retirement may be encouraged or required. If travel is a shared priority, one spouse may agree that the other can continue to work part-time to provide for and enhance their shared travel experience.
On the other hand, if both spouses rank spending more time at home with family or pursuing meaningful charitable endeavors highest, they may have the opportunity to retire earlier.
For couples, retirement planning should not be a solo pursuit. It is a shared vision that requires teamwork and communication. Financial planning can ensure financial survival. Couples who align their finances with a shared vision enjoy satisfaction and meaning on the retirement journey.
Carol Wilshire is a Certified Financial Planner™ and managing director at RBC Wealth Management based in Manhattan Beach. She has assisted couples in planning for successful retirements for over 25 years.
Disclaimer: Investment and insurance products offered through RBC Wealth Management are not insured by the FDIC or any other federal government agency, are not deposits or other obligations of, or guaranteed by, a bank or any bank affiliates, and are subject to investment risks, including possible loss of principal amount invested. RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, registered investment adviser and Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC.
CAROL WILSHIRE,
CFP®
RBC
WEALTH MANAGEMENT
CAROL.WILSHIRE@RBC.COM
310-341-6663
US.RBCWEALTHMANAGEMENT.COM/ CAROL.WILSHIRE
The award-winning annual event hit its fundraising target, raising more than $1.5 million for three nonprofit cancer organizations dedicated to critical research and support services for patients, families and caregivers. Since debuting in 2013, Tour de Pier has raised more than $16 million for cancer charities.
We celebrated the first two issues of 2026 at VEFA Gallery in Torrance to experience Monumental, an exhibition of selected works by artist Andy Scott. Guests enjoyed bites by Chef Aly at The Inspired Palate, wines by Barsha, Conscious Ink’s inspirational temporary tattoos applied by Indivisible Arts teens and a Jamie Lovelynn Mindful Magical Moment. Flowers were provided by Elizabeth Grace Florals.
Estate Properties raised a glass of Champagne and enjoyed ocean views at Pacific Standard Prime, commemorating an incredible first quarter. The team celebrated milestones made possible by the firm’s hardworking agents.
Skechers has officially unveiled its first-of-its-kind permanent Proto Hologram retail experience at the brand’s Manhattan Beach store, bringing Skechers ambassador Howie Mandel to life through an interactive, immersive 3D hologram installation.
Over 550 South Bay community members gathered in Hermosa Beach’s Cypress Arts District for an evening of art, music, service and connection in support of Indivisible Arts’ fifth annual fundraiser. The event featured live youth music performances, interactive installations and world-renowned artwork. Families, educators, artists, local businesses and supporters united around a shared mission: helping young people build greater selfawareness and mental well-being through creativity and the arts.
THE HERMOSA BEACH FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY BOOKSTORE IS DOING FAR MORE THAN SELLING USED BOOKS. IT’S BUILDING COMMUNITY, ONE READER AT A TIME.
Written by Scott Sanford Tobis | Photographed by Shane O’Donnell
Nestled between the Hermosa Beach community center, playhouse and historical society is one of the South Bay’s true hidden gems. In fact, several locals halfjokingly suggested this article shouldn’t be written at all. Their concern? Too much attention might spoil what they consider the area’s best-kept secret: the Hermosa Beach Friends of the Library Bookstore.
Housed in an 800-square-foot building that once served as a storage facility for the community center, the bookstore has evolved into a vibrant cultural hub. Books, games, vinyl records and DVDs are sold at prices that feel frozen in time—hardcover books for $1, paperbacks for $.50—creating the kind of browsing experience that seems increasingly rare.
At the center of the organization is Nancy Domingues, the Friends of the Library’s events and program coordinator. A longtime South Bay resident, Nancy developed a love of libraries early in life, describing them as a “safe space” during her childhood in Newark, New Jersey. After initially volunteering with the organization, she eventually stepped into her current leadership role.
Her enthusiasm for literature and community is immediately evident when discussing the Friends of the Library, whose mission extends far beyond the bookstore itself. While the shop, currently located on the south side of the community center complex near Pier Avenue, remains the organization’s most visible feature, it represents only one piece of a much larger effort to foster literary culture throughout Hermosa Beach and the South Bay.
“The shop is literally just one little piece of the puzzle,” Nancy explains. “It’s where people come for community. We have lots of regulars, and it’s amazing
to see the connections between volunteers and patrons. It’s become this hub that’s alive, vibrant and full of life. You can’t go in there and not smile.”
That welcoming atmosphere is enhanced by the volunteers themselves, who help create a warm, neighborhood feel, including the tradition of freshly baked cookies appearing every Friday.
Hermosa Beach Friends of the Library, or HBFoL, has set an ambitious goal of making Hermosa the “Best Little Bookish Beach City” in the country. Founded nearly 70 years ago, the nonprofit has built an impressive operation fueled by both community support and volunteer dedication.
The numbers are striking: Roughly 100,000 books and DVDs are donated annually by residents. The organization’s online bookstore, operated through PangoBooks, ships titles to customers in all 50 states. Combined in-person and online sales recently generated a record $96,912. Remarkably, the entire operation is supported by a small staff and 97 volunteers contributing thousands of hours each year.
While the bookstore remains the organization’s crown jewel, HBFoL works behind the scenes in ways many visitors never realize. The nonprofit hosts author events across the South Bay, including sold-out discussions centered on genres ranging from romance to science fiction. It also supplies books and infrastructure for the growing network of Little Free Libraries throughout the Beach Cities, with the long-term goal of creating a continuous corridor of free, 24/7 book access within walking distance of every Hermosa home.
The organization’s ambitions continue to grow. Future plans include expanding author programming, increasing donations to the Hermosa Beach
Library, strengthening the successful Book READCycle Program—which distributes books to schools, teachers, nonprofits and community organizations—and launching a Beach Cities scholarship program for high school students focused on creative writing and historical research.
Another major initiative is the goal of installing 125 Little Free Libraries in time for Hermosa Beach’s 125th anniversary in 2032.
In other words, HBFoL is just getting started. All are welcome to visit, donate or volunteer for this truly worthwhile cultural stop in the South Bay. Whether you’re looking for a good read, good conversation or just a safe space to spend a quiet afternoon, this may quickly become your home away from home. ■
“IT’S WHERE PEOPLE COME FOR COMMUNITY. IT’S BECOME THIS HUB THAT’S ALIVE, VIBRANT AND FULL OF LIFE. YOU CAN’T GO IN THERE AND NOT SMILE.”
BEYOND BREATHTAKING VISTAS IN THE SANTA YNEZ VALLEY, ALEXIS ZAHOUDANIS IS CULTIVATING SOMETHING DEEPER: COMMUNITY, FAMILY AND WINES WITH A SENSE OF PLACE.
Written by Bonnie Graves
It’s been a difficult time in the wine industry of late. It seems like a new doom-and-gloom article is published daily, detailing declining alcohol consumption rates in general and their collective impact on wine production in California particularly. Many factors are at play, including overproduction and the legalization of marijuana most prominently. But the reality is that it’s a very tough time to be in the business of fermenting grape juice.
2026 also marks my 20-year anniversary of writing about food and wine for Southbay magazine, and it was in the South Bay 22 years ago that I went on a fateful blind date at The Kettle with some guy who lived in Manhattan Beach. This magazine, my personal life and the wine scene have changed dramatically over the past two decades, but what remains is deeply rooted.
I thought a lot about roots, viticultural and cultural, while having lunch next to Alexis Zahoudanis recently at his family business, Demetria Estate. Arguably the most beautifully situated winery in California, a meal or tasting on the patio with its expansive views of the Santa Ynez Valley will make anyone yearn for the lifestyle.
But it’s the genuine sense of welcome that is as distinctive as the view. I’ve traveled the globe and tasted wines with any number of impressive folks, but my chat with Alexis reminded me that hospitality cannot be faked. And I was delighted to learn of his own roots in the South Bay.
Alexis is the son of John Zahoudanis, a commercial real estate investor and immigrant from Greece, and Sandra Zahoudanis, a travel agency owner with Southern roots. Alexis was raised in Manhattan Beach and graduated from Mira Costa High School.
“The South Bay was an incredible place to grow up,”
he shares. “Life in Santa Ynez is a lot quieter and runs at a totally different pace. While I do miss the multitude of cultural opportunities in a more urban area, it has been great to see the Santa Ynez Valley evolve in recent years into a true culinary, wine and hospitality destination. The only thing missing here is views of the Pacific Ocean.”
After a stint back east at New York University for college, Alexis returned to the South Bay to join his family’s business. One of their more notable real estate projects was developing the Manhattan Beach Country Club. Their family’s imprint on the South Bay is both physical and metaphysical, as longtime residents who are deeply committed to the area’s development.
John was raised on Greece’s Mount Olympus, though, surrounded by olive and citrus groves with a modest farm wine production. The allure of winemaking persisted alongside his commercial successes.
“For as long as I can remember, owning a winery was my father’s dream,” says Alexis. “As a Greek immigrant, a love for wine, food and hospitality was ingrained in him.”
Vocation met avocation when he purchased the legendary Ashley’s Vineyard in the early 2000s. The resale of Ashley’s provided the capital to purchase a once-in-a-lifetime estate, planted and farmed by Santa Barbara pioneer Andrew Murray. Demetria Estate was reborn in 2006, and 20 years of the Zahoudanis family’s commitment to biodynamic farming and minimal interventions has resulted in one of California’s most legendary properties.
And yes, the wines are great. First made by my friend Mike Roth, an early natural-wine proponent, they have been produced since 2019 under the watchful eye of Ryan Roark, who is both the winemaker and the vineyard manager at Demetria. His dual role is unusual and allows a level of holistic, farm-to-bottle viticulture that has resulted in something remarkable.
“Owning and operating a winery is a ton of hard work, but it’s also a dream come true,” says Alexis. “I get to do what I love alongside an incredibly passionate team—creating wines that reflect our estate in the
Santa Ynez Valley and sharing them with the people we’re lucky enough to welcome here.”
Yet Alexis didn’t want to talk about how great Demetria’s wines are, and you’ve got to like a guy who lets the grape juice do the talking on its own. Rather, we spent a few hours talking about family. We both have raised children in SoCal and are now in that transitional space sometimes called the “sandwich” generation.
Alexis spoke movingly of his own childhood and specifically about his mother, from whom he learned to cook and for whom he now acts as primary caregiver. He also counts his longtime employees as family, and team members Ryan, Emily, Logan and Nick are an integral part of Demetria’s successes. Demetria is Alexis’ sister, herself named for the Greek goddess of harvest, Demeter.
Then we got to talking about cooking, and what Alexis considers his “body by pasta” approach to life.
An accomplished home chef, Alexis and I had a lot of fun discussing food and wine pairings. The feeling at Demetria is one of welcome, and I kept thinking of Olive Garden’s popular—if wholly inaccurate—corporate tagline: “When you’re here, you’re family.” At Demetria, this tagline is exemplified by how warmly
each guest is treated, a rarity that may speak to the demise of certain haughty tasting rooms and the era of allocated wines in general.
In addition to wine tasting, Demetria is one of Santa Barbara County’s premier event venues, and its gorgeous setting is widely coveted for weddings, birthdays and corporate retreats. I found myself thinking of my own family and could not imagine a more lovely place to have a multigenerational reunion here in California.
While walk-in guests are accommodated, making a tasting reservation is advisable, as is planning for the winding mountain drive up to the estate along the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail. Come early and enjoy the sunlight streaming through the majestic oaks, the melodic birdsong and a lineup of wines that truly showcase an origin story. Terroir is as much about people as it is about soil and sun—something that Demetria embodies.
“Demetria is a place where you can bring your kids, your dog and a picnic and just enjoy the day, whether that’s listening to live music or taking in the views,” Alexis notes. “From the beginning, my parents wanted to create a place where people could relax, connect with nature and experience a real, lived-in wine estate, and it has evolved into just that.” ■
“At SEIA we operate with a strong emphasis on confidentiality and trust, focusing on the nuanced needs of clients— everything from pre-IPO planning to concentrated stock strategies and legacy philanthropy. Our in-house professionals and external partners coordinate to deliver integrated advice, and every plan is customized and bespoke, built around your life, your family and your future.”
– SIGNATURE ESTATE & INVESTMENT ADVISORS, LLC
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 your financial challenges and make smart decisions to meet your goals.
LAURA L. WATTS
Founded in 1997, Signature Estate & Investment Advisors, LLC (SEIA) specializes in serving ultra-high-net-worth individuals and families with complex financial lives. The boutique advisory firm offers white-glove service and bespoke financial strategies, with a focus on tax efficiency and multigenerational estate planning.
Tax planning using long-short strategies. One thing we are increasingly utilizing is a long-short strategy that we often refer to as “tax-loss harvesting 2.0.” The strategy either starts from scratch with cash or an existing SMA (Separately Managed Account), or it collateralizes existing portfolio holdings (including highly appreciated stocks, bonds, ETFs and/or mutual funds).
Using margin, it runs both a long and short equity sleeve (approximately 300 U.S. large-cap stocks in each sleeve). No options are used. Rather, the sleeves seek to generate short-term capital losses through ongoing trading activity, including selling long positions at a loss and buying back shorts at a gain (two sources of tax-loss realization).
Notably, by playing both sides of the market, the approach is designed to generate tax-loss harvesting opportunities across a range of market environments—unlike a traditional tax-loss harvesting account, which may run out of tax benefit after prolonged periods of market upswing, like what we’ve seen over the last few years.
The strategy is generally managed to be market neutral, meaning the combined long and short extensions are intended to have minimal directional market exposure over time. This approach can be useful for clients seeking tax flexibility to offset gains from events such as the sale of a home, building or business, or to reposition a portfolio—especially one with highly appreciated positions that can start to feel somewhat “stuck” or “stale.”
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 considering how your legacy endures for generations, our team delivers strategies that align with your vision and values.
Best Mediterranean Food: Turquoise Restaurant
Favorite Roaster: Offset Coffee
Best Burn: Redondo Beach Fitness
Ultimate Steakhouse: The Arthur J
TELL US ABOUT SOME OF THE SERVICES YOU OFFER.
We believe there is more to managing one’s wealth than just managing one’s money. Accordingly, we’ve seen that many clients can benefit from ensuring their tax and estate planning efforts are aligned with their goals and objectives. With the recent changes to tax law and estate planning considerations, it may be an appropriate time to review whether your current plan still meets your needs. SEIA’s internal Department of Estate, Tax and Financial Planning can help.
In particular, clients often find value in our Signature Compass comprehensive retirement planning process. The process models different scenarios and stress-tests a portfolio with various assumptions and decision points. It is designed to help clients and their families better understand whether they are on track toward their future financial objectives.
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.
Gino Stumpo, Wealth Advisor/Financial Advisor
Gino Stumpo is a managing director—wealth management, portfolio manager, financial advisor and wealth advisor at UBS Financial Services Inc. With over 25 years of industry experience, his career has focused on serving high-net-worth individuals and families, with a concentration in investments and retirement planning. Gino is a member of the Stumpo Sikorski Wealth Management team, which guides clients with personalized, tailored strategies designed to enhance financial well-being.
I developed a natural interest in investments and decided to pursue a college degree in finance. I was already a member of the finance club when I attended an event featuring a guest speaker who was a financial advisor. I secured an internship at Salomon Smith Barney, a move that helped launch my career. After graduating, I joined PaineWebber, which was later acquired by UBS Financial Services Inc. Throughout this journey, my fascination with the industry has only grown, and I continue to find new reasons to love what I do.
In the last decade, client communication has increasingly shifted to digital channels—whether by phone, email or emerging technologies. I believe in the power of in-person, face-to-face meetings and the value of human connection when discussing a client’s financial questions and concerns. My approach isn’t just about numbers; it’s about understanding a client’s story, their goals and what matters most to them. In addition to providing financial services, I enjoy hosting client appreciation events, dinners and informative seminars.
My fellow financial advisor and team member Mark Sikorski served as an officer in the U.S. Air Force and with the Los Angeles Police Department before transitioning into wealth management. Because of that background, our team has built long-standing relationships with first responders—including police officers and firefighters— helping them coordinate their investments with their retirement plans, pensions and other benefits.
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 keep our family afloat, he took a part-time job at a hospital to cover the bills and make ends meet. As the eldest child, watching him navigate uncertainty—and
• Retirement Planning
• Wealth Management
• Financial Planning
• Investment Management
thinking about what retirement would look like—left a lasting impression on me. That experience inspired me to pursue a career in finance and ultimately specialize in retirement planning so I can help clients make confident decisions about their benefits and move into the next stage of life with greater clarity. I am incredibly proud of the work I do.
TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOURSELF THAT OTHERS MAY NOT KNOW.
For the past two years, I have practiced Brazilian jiu-jitsu and have competed in several tournaments. I also enjoy volunteering with special needs children through my church and sponsoring local charities. I live in Newport Coast with my wife, Ana Maria; our three children, Gianna, Nicco and Lucca; and our lovable goldendoodle, 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/relationship summary, or ask your UBS Financial Advisor for a copy. IS2600458
Heather Quinn & Barbara Bernstein
Wealth management advisors Heather Quinn and Barbara Bernstein operate Fortuna Wealth Management & Insurance Services as part of Northwestern Mutual. They guide clients in tax efficiency, risk management, retirement planning, investment strategy, and wealth preservation and distribution.
WHAT DOES “FINANCIAL WELLNESS” MEAN TO YOU BEYOND NUMBERS?
To us, financial wellness is not just about what is in an account. It is about having a plan that supports the way you actually want to live. At its best, it creates a sense of freedom, confidence and steadiness that shows up far beyond the spreadsheet.
WHAT’S ONE FINANCIAL HABIT EVERYONE SHOULD START TODAY?
Be intentional. Set aside time monthly to look at what you have, what you want and what needs to change to close that gap. Those who make the best financial decisions over time are usually willing to have that honest conversation with themselves and their advisors.
WHAT’S A BELIEF ABOUT MONEY YOU’VE CHANGED YOUR MIND ON OVER THE YEARS?
Early on, it was easy to think financial confidence came from having more income or certainty. What we have learned is that confidence comes from having a plan. Thoughtful planning can create real peace of mind, even in unpredictable seasons.
WHAT MISCONCEPTIONS DO PEOPLE OFTEN HAVE ABOUT WORKING WITH A FINANCIAL ADVISOR?
That it starts and ends with investments. The real value often comes from helping people think through major life decisions, organize the full picture and build a road map that reflects both where they are today and where they want to go.
WHAT’S A FINANCIAL DECISION THAT LOOKS SMART ON PAPER BUT OFTEN ISN’T IN REAL LIFE?
One that maximizes a number but ignores the realities of someone’s life. We see this when people make choices based only on returns or what someone else says they “should” do without considering flexibility, timing, family needs or risk tolerance. The best decision is not always the most impressive one on paper.
WHAT FIRST DREW YOU TO FINANCIAL ADVISING?
We both came to financial advising after careers in entertainment, where we had a front-row seat to see how unpredictable even successful careers can be. That shaped the way we think about
• Tax Efficiency
• Risk Management
• Retirement Planning
• Investment Strategy
planning and made this work feel deeply meaningful. What keeps us passionate is the opportunity to help people create more stability, confidence and freedom through thoughtful financial decisions.
TELL US ABOUT A CLIENT WHO COMPLETELY CHANGED YOUR PERSPECTIVE.
We have a client who earns over $1 million a year, and everyone assumed she had everything together. Yet in working with her, we realized she was very good at earning money but didn’t know what to do with it or how taxes work. Together, we crafted a plan giving every dollar a job assignment. Now she is in a far better position.
HOW DID YOUR EARLY EXPERIENCES INFLUENCE YOUR PHILOSOPHY ON MONEY?
We both grew up in households where there were no financial plans and decisions were reactive. We learned that creating a plan around money leads to far better outcomes in every area of your life.
WHAT’S THE MOST REWARDING PART OF YOUR WORK?
Empowering a client to move from uncertainty to confidence. Finances touch so many of the biggest concerns in a person’s life, and it is incredibly meaningful to help someone feel more organized, steady and in control of what comes next.
Disclaimer: Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM) (life and disability Insurance, annuities, and life insurance with long-term care benefits) and its subsidiaries, including Northwestern Long Term Care Insurance Company (NLTC) (long-term care insurance), Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (NMIS) (investment brokerage services), a registered investment adviser, broker-dealer, and member of FINRA and SIPC, and Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company® (NMWMC) (investment advisory and trust services), a federal savings bank. NM and its subsidiaries are in Milwaukee, WI. Heather Quinn and Barbara Bernstein use Fortuna Wealth Management, Legacy Strategies and Insurance Solutions as a marketing name for doing business as a representative of Northwestern Mutual. Fortuna Wealth Management, Legacy Strategies and Insurance Solutions is not a registered investment adviser, broker-dealer, insurance agency or federal savings bank. Heather Quinn and Barbara Bernstein are Insurance Agents of NM and NLTC. Investment brokerage services provided as a Registered Representative of NMIS. Investment advisory services provided as an Advisor of NMWMC.
Strategic View Advisors is a financial planning team, led by CEO Edward Moyzes, that operates under the umbrella of the Northwestern Mutual Private Client Group. Northwestern Mutual has been in business for the past 169 years.
WHAT’S SOMETHING ABOUT YOUR JOB THAT PEOPLE WOULD FIND SURPRISING?
Most people assume financial advisors spend their days staring at spreadsheets and tracking markets. In reality, our work is fundamentally about people—understanding what matters most to them and building a plan that reflects that. The best moments are not tied to market highs but to hearing a client say they finally feel at ease.
HOW IS TECHNOLOGY CHANGING THE WAY YOU SERVE CLIENTS?
You cannot automate trust, and you cannot automate peace of mind. Technology is a tool, not the solution. It enables our team to move faster on the operational side and focus on the relationships and strategic thinking that shape outcomes.
WHAT’S A QUIET “WIN” IN YOUR WORK THAT WOULDN’T SHOW UP ON A BALANCE SHEET?
When a client takes a big vacation during a down market because they trust their plan completely, that says everything. It is a sign they are not reacting to noise. They are making decisions from a place of confidence.
WHAT FIRST DREW YOU TO FINANCIAL ADVISING, AND WHAT KEEPS YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT IT?
Money is one of the most significant sources of stress, and most of that stress is unnecessary with the right guidance. The opportunity to help people feel more confident, prepared and secure is what drew us to this work in the first place, and it is still what drives us today. Partnering with clients to Achieve Financial Peace of MindTM is not just the mission; it is the reason we show up every day.
WHAT’S SOMETHING UNIQUE ABOUT ADVISING CLIENTS IN THE SOUTH BAY?
Housing plays an outsized role in financial planning here in a way that feels distinct to the South Bay. It is an incredible place to live, but that comes with higher home values and greater long-term planning considerations. A meaningful part of the work is helping clients make sure the home they love supports their future rather than limiting it.
WHAT’S MOST REWARDING ABOUT YOUR WORK?
Partnering with clients to Achieve Financial Peace of MindTM is what this work is all about. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing someone move through major life decisions with
• Financial Planning
• Investment Planning
• Retirement Income Planning
• Estate Planning
confidence because they know their plan is built to support them. That sense of clarity and security is the outcome we are always working toward.
WHAT MISCONCEPTIONS DO PEOPLE OFTEN HAVE ABOUT WORKING WITH A FINANCIAL ADVISOR?
The misconception that it has to feel complicated. It does not. A good plan should create clarity, not confusion, and leave people feeling more confident.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT THE SOUTH BAY?
The weather, the beach, the schools, the food. It is an incredible and unique community within the larger Los Angeles landscape, and we are proud to be part of it.
IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU GIVE BACK LOCALLY OR OTHERWISE?
Our mission statement includes the goal to “transform the communities in which we live,” which we are able to accomplish through our philanthropic group, SVA CARES. Each quarter, SVA CARES organizes or participates in causes that are important to the team on a personal level. A few examples of past events include picking up trash at the local beach, volunteering at the local animal shelter and fundraising/walking in the Beach Cities’ Walk to End Alzheimer’s.
Disclaimer: Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM) and its subsidiaries in Milwaukee, WI. Members of Strategic View Advisors use Strategic View Advisors as a marketing name for doing business as representatives of Northwestern Mutual. Strategic View Advisors is not a registered investment adviser, broker-dealer, insurance agency, or federal savings bank. Northwestern Mutual Private Client Group is a select group of Northwestern Mutual advisors and representatives. Northwestern Mutual Private Client Group is not a registered investment adviser, broker-dealer, insurance agency, federal savings bank or other legal entity. To view detailed disclosures regarding individual representatives, view their information at strategicviewadvisors.com.
Tammy Trenta, CEO & Lead Advisor
Family Financial LLC provides integrated investment management, financial planning, tax strategy, tax preparation and business advisory services and serves as the central point of coordination, bringing multiple financial professionals into one cohesive strategy. Owner Tammy Trenta has advised high-networth families and business owners for three decades.
WHAT DOES “FINANCIAL WELLNESS” MEAN TO YOU?
Financial wellness is about clarity, coordination and confidence. It means your financial life is working together in a way that reduces stress, creates peace of mind and gives you more time to focus on the people and priorities that matter most.
WHAT’S A GOOD FINANCIAL HABIT FOR EVERYONE?
Be intentional instead of reactive. The best outcomes usually come from a thoughtful plan followed consistently over time, rather than constantly changing direction.
WHAT’S A BELIEF ABOUT MONEY YOU’VE CHANGED YOUR MIND ON OVER THE YEARS?
I used to think more complexity meant better results. Over time, I’ve learned that simplicity—paired with coordination, discipline and good decision-making—often leads to better long-term outcomes.
WHAT DO CLIENTS WORRY ABOUT THAT'S SURPRISING?
Even very successful people worry about making the wrong decision. It’s often less about the numbers and more about uncertainty, information overload and not having enough time to think clearly through important choices.
WHAT’S A QUIET “WIN” IN YOUR WORK THAT WOULDN’T SHOW UP ON A BALANCE SHEET?
When a client stops worrying. When things feel organized, coordinated and manageable, that sense of relief is incredibly meaningful.
WHAT’S MOST REWARDING ABOUT YOUR WORK?
Helping clients move from feeling overwhelmed to feeling organized and confident. When everything is coordinated and they no longer have to manage multiple professionals on their own, it gives them back valuable time and peace of mind.
WHAT MISCONCEPTIONS DO PEOPLE OFTEN HAVE ABOUT WORKING WITH A FINANCIAL ADVISOR?
That it’s only about investment returns. Performance matters and shouldn’t be discounted, but the bigger goal is improving overall financial outcomes through a coordinated, family office approach that aligns every part of a client’s financial life.
• Family Office Model
• Tax Strategy
• Exit Planning
• Proactive Coordination
WHAT’S A FINANCIAL DECISION THAT LOOKS SMART ON PAPER BUT OFTEN ISN’T IN REAL LIFE?
Chasing returns or over-optimizing for taxes without considering the bigger picture. The best strategies are the ones that work in real life and support long-term goals, flexibility and peace of mind.
HOW IS TECHNOLOGY CHANGING HOW YOU WORK?
Technology helps us operate more effectively as a family office by improving coordination, communication and visibility. It allows us to be more proactive and spend more time focused on personalized advice and strategy.
WHAT FIRST DREW YOU TO FINANCIAL ADVISING— AND WHAT KEEPS YOU PASSIONATE?
Early in my career, I saw successful families juggling separate advisors who didn’t talk to each other—and paying for it in missed opportunities and decision fatigue. I started Family Financial to fix that. What keeps me passionate is seeing clients get their time and clarity back.
IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU GIVE BACK?
I mentor younger women building careers in finance, and I’m often a sounding board for clients’ adult children as they navigate their own first big financial decisions. Helping the next generation feel confident with money matters to me.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR TEAM.
Our team is incredibly client-focused and committed to delivering a true family office experience. We coordinate closely with CPAs, attorneys and other professionals so clients don’t have to manage everything themselves. It’s rewarding to see how much clients value having a team they can trust to help simplify their lives.
Disclaimer: Family Financial LLC is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Investing involves risk.
Scott Leonard, Owner
Navigoe is a fee-only, fiduciary wealth management firm specializing in comprehensive financial planning, investment management, estate planning and tax planning. Owner Scott Leonard and his team of Certified Financial Planner® professionals work closely with clients to design tailored investment strategies, estate planning and tax-efficient solutions with a focus on long-term prosperity and peace of mind. Navigoe is celebrating its 30th anniversary this fall.
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 that 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.
HOW ARE YOU HELPING CLIENTS DURING THESE VOL ATILE MARKETS?
During times of heightened market uncertainty, we maintain a disciplined, long-term investment strategy tailored to clients’ unique goals and spending priorities, rather than reacting impulsively to short-term market swings. This includes regularly rebalancing stocks in their portfolio to keep it aligned with their objectives, considering opportunities such as tax-loss harvesting, and ensuring there is an adequate cash reserve to avoid selling stocks in a downturn. We also provide ongoing communication and reassurance, helping clients stay focused on their financial plan and make thoughtful, strategic decisions rather than knee-jerk ones.
“SPENDING
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 to build portfolios—rather than relying upon a generic risk score and traditional portfolios, such as the ubiquitous 60/40
Highlights
• Intentionally Boutique
• Strategically Local
• Uniquely Personal
• Always Independent
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.
We recently started working with a client who had just retired and was concerned about how to fund retirement. They did not want to risk investing in the stock market, yet bonds did not provide the growth they needed to fund their retirement. By spending time understanding their spending priorities, we clearly showed them how to allocate their investments to support those priorities. We broke down their spending priorities between essential and non-essential, then created a customized plan to bulletproof their essential spending using their pension, Social Security and a custom-built, inflation-hedge bond strategy. Helping them secure their minimum spending goal—essential spending—provided the confidence to continue investing in the stock market, which is forecast to provide growth to support over 35 years of retirement.
IN ADDITION TO INVESTMENT STRATEGIES, WHAT ARE YOUR AREAS OF ADDITIONAL EXPERTISE?
We help clients minimize tax liabilities and maximize after-tax returns through proactive strategies, while 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.
ARE YOU TAKING NEW CLIENTS?
Yes. We start with a complimentary meeting to get to know their financial situation, goals and concerns. This conversation allows us to provide a second opinion on their current investments and begin building a financial plan tailored to their needs. Through this collaborative process, prospective clients gain valuable insights and a clear road map, with no obligation to proceed until they feel confident our approach is the right fit for them.
Regatta Capital Group® is an independent, $1.7 billion RIA firm that provides fiduciary wealth management advice to families, business owners, retirees, group 401(k) plans and endowments.
WHAT IS YOUR APPROACH TO INVESTMENTS, AND WHAT UNIQUE ASPECTS DO YOU BRING FORWARD?
We use ETFs and our in-house stock portfolio and then add top-tier managers for private equity, private credit, real estate, infrastructure and venture capital. We invest with tax-awareness, but the tail does not wag the dog. Total return, after taxes and fees, is what matters most.
WHAT’S THE MOST VALUABLE LESSON YOU’VE LEARNED FROM ADVISING OTHERS?
Not every financial decision is black or white; often the answer lies in the middle. Wealth is not only defined by one’s financial status, but also defined by mental and physical health, time with family and having a community of friends close to us. A great advisor knows their client in a truly personal way. If taking the promotion increases income 20% but decreases time spent with your kids by
50%, is it worth it? If reducing taxes slightly gives you less control of your money, is that the best solution? The answers are always custom for each client’s personal situation.
WHAT IS YOUR GUIDING PRINCIPLE?
To do right by the client. Our team’s culture is built on this principle. We want clients passionate about our service model. Every decision, recommendation and action is grounded in our responsibilities to serve the client.
WHAT NEW INITIATIVE EXCITES YOU FOR THIS YEAR?
We are excited to develop our AI co-intelligence service model in conjunction with Claude. We are adding one of the top private equity managers in the country for qualified purchasers in a very investor-friendly structure. We plan to add one or two more CFP® professionals to our South Bay team to work with our growing clientele.
Disclaimer: Past performance does not predict future results. Investments are not bank guaranteed and may lose money. *AUM as of 9/30/25.
We focus on curing cancer. You focus on life.
From diagnosis through survivorship, our more than 2,000 experts are focused on one thing—ending cancer. As one of the nation’s largest and most advanced cancer research and treatment organizations, we deliver outcomes that exceed national standards.
BORN FROM BOREDOM ON A RAINY AFTERNOON IN 1965, PICKLEBALL HAS EXPLODED INTO A CULTURAL PHENOMENON THAT’S TRANSFORMING RECREATION, BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY THROUGHOUT THE SOUTH BAY.
Written by Michele Garber
Photographed by Shane O’Donnell
Pickleball is proof positive that necessity is the mother of invention.
In the summer of 1965, three families were vacationing on Bainbridge Island, Washington. On a dreary Saturday afternoon, Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell and Barney McCallum searched for a way to entertain their bored children at the family cabin. They gathered the kids on the backyard badminton court, handed them pingpong paddles and a Wiffle ball, lowered a tennis net they found in the shed and told them to start hitting the ball around.
The adults realized the improvised game was surprisingly fun and soon joined in. Barney noticed the ping-pong paddles were too small and kept breaking, so that evening he used a bandsaw to craft larger plywood paddles—unintentionally creating the prototype for today’s pickleball paddle.
Before long, everyone on the island wanted to play Joel, Bill and Barney’s new paddle game. The trio began experimenting with rules that would make it enjoyable for players of all ages and skill levels, blending elements of badminton, tennis and ping-pong into a completely new sport.
Joel’s wife, Joan, remarked that the mash-up of games reminded her of a “pickle boat,” a rowing term for a crew assembled from leftover oarsmen. The nickname stuck, and pickleball was born.
At the time, Joel, Bill and Barney had no grand vision that their backyard invention would someday become an international phenomenon. They simply wanted to create something social, accessible and fun for family and friends to enjoy together.
That simplicity remains the secret sauce behind pickleball’s appeal. The game’s basic rules create an unusually level playing field, allowing people of all ages, sizes and athletic abilities to compete together.
Because the court is compact, it can be set up almost anywhere—on streets, driveways, gym floors or tennis courts. The equipment is relatively inexpensive, the learning curve is approachable and, most importantly, the game is undeniably fun.
Over the following decades, pickleball steadily evolved from a backyard pastime into an organized sport. In 1972, Joel, Bill and Barney trademarked the name Pickleball and formed Pickleball Inc., selling starter kits throughout the United States. By 1984 the U.S. Amateur Pickleball Association had formed, and the first official rule book was published.
As the sport spread, schools added pickleball to athletic programs, courts were built, leagues emerged and tournaments multiplied. Strong amateur players turned professional, and athletic brands began producing paddles, apparel and accessories specifically for the game.
Then everything changed in 2020. Pickleball became one of the rare cultural phenomena that benefited from the COVID-19 pandemic. At a time when people craved safe outdoor activity, social interaction and exercise, pickleball perfectly fit the moment.
COVID was to pickleball what the Tupac hologram was to Coachella: the catalyst that launched it into the national spotlight. From 2020 to 2025, the number of pickleball players in the United States exploded from 4.2 million to 24.3 million, making it America’s fastest-growing sport for four consecutive years.
The surge happened so rapidly that it seemed as if pickleball had gone from obscurity to ubiquity almost overnight. That explosive growth has transformed the South Bay as well.
Pickleheads, the official court and game finder of USA Pickleball, lists more than 20 locations throughout the Beach Cities where people can play. These range from public recreation centers and school courts to private clubs and dedicated pickleball facilities. The sport’s expansion has also inspired local businesses to embrace the craze and launch new ventures catering to the growing community.
One of the more unique businesses to take on the sport is California SMASH Pickleball & Social Club in El Segundo.
Cali SMASH is far more than a traditional athletic facility. While it features nine indoor padded pickleball courts, the venue is designed as an elevated social
and entertainment destination. The facility includes a restaurant, full bar, 100-seat social lounge and multiple event spaces.
“It’s kind of like Topgolf meets Cosm meets Lucky Strike,” says Scott Doerner of Cali SMASH. “It’s a really cool experience. We wanted to bring that energy to pickleball.”
Cali SMASH also emphasizes its food and beverage program. Its restaurant, The Kitchen, named after a pickleball term, serves an upscale menu created by Chef Dee, formerly of Playa Provisions. Guests can enjoy DJs, watch parties and social events, even when they’re not playing.
Located just steps from the Metro line connecting to SoFi Stadium, the venue has also become a popular pregame and postgame destination on game days.
“What Cali SMASH is really about is community and social engagement,” Scott explains. “Yes, there will be leagues and tournaments, but look around—people are hanging out. We want this to feel like everyone’s local spot. Play pickleball, make new friends, reconnect with old friends, grab a drink, watch a game and stay awhile.”
Also in El Segundo, Love.Life offers a 6,500-squarefoot pickleball facility featuring three indoor courts, lessons, clinics and an observation lounge. Pickleball is included in all memberships for the first year.
For players seeking an outdoor experience, South Bay Tennis & Pickleball Center in Torrance remains one of the area’s premier destinations. The facility has been owned and operated since 1997 by Courtney and Ken Hance, longtime tennis players and coaches whose family has deep roots in racquet sports.
Their three oldest children played Division I tennis. Keaton, their youngest, recently won the U.S. Open junior boys doubles title and will attend the University of Texas this fall. Daughter Kenadi is a touring pickleball professional, and son Connor founded Enhance Pickleball, specializing in equipment and accessories.
South Bay Tennis & Pickleball first introduced pickleball during the pandemic.
“My son suggested I blend pickleball lines onto the
tennis courts,” Courtney recalls. “I told him, ‘I’m not ruining my tennis courts.’ But he said, ‘Mom, people need to get outside and play. You can fit 16 pickleball players on one tennis court.’”
She finally agreed. “Within minutes, people started rolling in,” she says. “That decision changed everything.”
Today the facility features 26 blended courts and nine dedicated pickleball courts.
Beyond the courts themselves, local businesses throughout the South Bay have embraced the pickleball movement. Few have leaned in more aggressively than Manhattan Beach-based Skechers.
The company launched Viper Court, a performance footwear line specifically designed for pickleball, along with apparel, paddles and accessories. Skechers has also sponsored professional athletes, tournaments, leagues and local pickleball organizations.
“Seeing how the South Bay, along with communities around the world, has embraced pickleball has truly inspired us,” says Skechers president Michael Greenberg. “The synergy between Skechers and pickleball feels natural, and we’re excited to support the sport’s ongoing growth both locally and globally.”
According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, pickleball is now one of the most widely played and fastest-growing sports in America, ranking among the nation’s top 25 recreational activities. Industry analysts estimate participation could reach 40 million players by 2030.
The business surrounding the sport is booming as well. Pickleball generated an estimated $1.77 billion in revenue in 2025 and is projected to surpass $3.5 billion by 2032. Surveys show that the average player spends hundreds of dollars annually on court fees, lessons, tournaments and equipment.
“Pickleball is not just a game,” says Kevin Kim, COO of DUPR, the global pickleball rating system. “It’s a lifestyle.”
It may have taken five decades to get here, but pickleball has officially arrived—and shows no signs of slowing down. Joel, Bill and Barney would undoubtedly be proud. ■
Dr. George Rice and the health care pros at Love.Life help members connect the dots to achieve comprehensive wellness.
WRITTEN BY LAURA L. WATTS | PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE O’DONNELL
For years, patients have walked into the office of George Rice, MD, carrying the same frustration: They know something feels off, but nobody has quite connected the dots. Fatigue is written off as “just stress.” Brain fog gets blamed on aging. Hormones, digestion, sleep issues? Maybe normal, maybe not.
Dr. Rice has built his career on asking a different question: What’s actually going on here?
Now practicing at Love.Life, the sprawling health and wellness club that focuses on longevity and total health optimization, Dr. Rice specializes in integrative and functional medicine—a field that looks beyond symptoms to investigate how the body’s systems interact.
“It’s about understanding the story behind why someone doesn’t feel well,”
“WHEN YOU UNDERSTAND YOUR BODY’S STORY, YOU CAN CHANGE YOUR HEALTH IN A MEANINGFUL AND LASTING WAY.”
“SYMPTOMS ARE SIGNALS.”
says Dr. Rice, who views medicine as fullbody detective work. “Symptoms are signals.”
That philosophy has shaped more than two decades in medicine. After earning degrees from Stanford University and Rush University, followed by residency training at the University of Southern California, Dr. Rice gravitated toward a more personalized style of care. Today his work focuses on hormone optimization, metabolic health, gut health and longevity—often helping patients who feel like they’ve exhausted every other option.
“Many people come to Love.Life after years of frustration,” he shares. “When they finally understand what is happening in their body and begin to feel better, it
transforms not only their health but their confidence, relationships and overall quality of life.”
His entry into the field of medicine was deeply personal. When his wife developed chronic health issues, Dr. Rice found that conventional treatments addressed symptoms but not the underlying causes. Exploring functional medicine and hormone optimization changed the trajectory of her health … and eventually his career.
“That experience completely shifted how I thought about medicine,” says Dr. Rice, who works as part of a multidisciplinary team that combines 20+ health care specialists under one roof at Love.Life.
Established in 2020 by Whole Foods Market’s founder and former executives, Love.Life boasts a 45,000-square-foot space that combines medical care, fitness, recovery therapies, spa services and nutrition in one setting, with a focus on helping members take a more proactive, personalized approach to health. The atmosphere feels more boutique wellness club than traditional medical office, with calm lighting and sleek interiors.
Love.Life’s approach is state-of-the-art, with advanced diagnostics and testing on site. Yet Dr. Rice believes the most important tool is surprisingly old-school: “Listening—a lot of people simply haven’t felt heard. When we take the time to understand their individuality, we are far more successful in identifying and resetting imbalances and ultimately optimizing health.”
Members undergo comprehensive testing and assessments designed to uncover patterns that may otherwise go unnoticed. From hormone imbalances and inflammation to sleep and metabolic issues, the physician-led care teams create individualized plans that often blend nutrition guidance, lifestyle changes, fitness coaching, stress management and targeted therapies.
The club also features a wide range of fitness and performance technology, from AI-assisted strength training to specialized recovery equipment, alongside a spa offering both traditional and Eastern therapies. A public café rounds out the experience, with a menu centered on whole ingredients and meals made without seed oils or artificial additives.
“We are best known for helping members who have not found answers elsewhere finally understand what is happening in their body—and how to correct it,” Dr. Rice points out. “We help individuals move beyond symptom management to truly living with energy, clarity and purpose.”
Always forward-thinking, Love.Life recently added a new modality and two comprehensive tests, which are also available to non-members. SoftWave Therapy is a type of shockwave therapy that is noninvasive and regenerative, stimulating the body’s natural healing, reducing chronic pain and repairing damaged tissues. The Advanced Cardiovascular Assessment gives patients a complete picture of their cardiovascular health, and the noninvasive Multi-organ Ultrasound Assessment evaluates eight vital organs, providing a clear picture of thyroid and abdominal organ function.
“When you understand your body’s story, you can change your health in a meaningful and lasting way,” says Dr. Rice.
For patients who arrive exhausted, discouraged or feeling unlike themselves, that message alone can feel like medicine.
Your next chapter starts with knowing your numbers. The best version of you is waiting.
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POSITIVITY HAS BEEN LINKED TO LOWER RATES OF CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE, IMPROVED IMMUNE RESPONSE AND INCREASED LONGEVITY. HERE ARE A FEW NEW BOOKS TO BOOST BOTH YOUR SPIRITS AND YOUR HEALTH.
Edited by Michele Garber
IN DEFENSE OF SUNLIGHT: THE SURPRISING SCIENCE OF SUN EXPOSURE
By Rowan Jacobsen
Southern Californians enjoy an average of 275 sunny days each year, so it’s only natural that we want to make the most of our spectacular climate. Yet for decades, dour “experts” cautioned us to avoid any sun exposure. Fortunately science has evolved, and soaking up a little sun is finally no longer taboo. Awardwinning journalist Rowan Jacobsen presents this common-sense, responsible approach to enjoying sunlight while offering his own seven words of advice: Get sun. Not too much. Go outside.
EAT YOURSELF HEALTHY: FOOD TO CHANGE YOUR LIFE
By Jamie Oliver
Chef Jamie Oliver has dedicated his career to leading a global food revolution focused on improving people’s health and happiness through the power of eating well. His 28 bestselling cookbooks have inspired millions to enjoy cooking fresh, delicious food with his accessible scratch recipes. His latest book offers 120 new recipes, 50 health hacks and a two-week kick-start meal plan. Chef Jamie shows readers that eating well isn’t about denial; it’s about abundance. Healthy eating can be energizing, satisfying and joyful.
THE MEANING OF YOUR LIFE: FINDING PURPOSE IN AN AGE OF EMPTINESS
By Arthur C. Brooks
Arthur C. Brooks tackles the age-old and perhaps greatest, most existential question each human faces at some point in life: What is the meaning of life? As a social scientist and Harvard professor, Brooks has observed how the pursuit of purpose has grown increasingly more complex and elusive, especially for younger generations. Rapid societal, cultural and technological changes have rewired our brains and left many with an increasing sense of emptiness and unfulfillment. Using evidence-based, cutting-edge science, Brooks offers a road map of how to discover our calling, pursue our passion and build a life of meaning and purpose.
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FORMER NBA PLAYER CHASE BUDINGER TRADED ARENAS FOR THE SAND, TURNING A LIFELONG PASSION FOR VOLLEYBALL INTO AN OLYMPIC CAREER AND A NEW CHAPTER OF SUCCESS.
Written by Quinn Roberts | Photographed by Shane O’Donnell
It was the summer of 2017, and Chase Budinger faced a lifechanging decision: retire from professional basketball or take a chance on a new career in professional beach volleyball.
“It was a good, long process of mulling it over,” recalls Chase. “Do I really want to end my career? I could have gone overseas and played or tried to make it on an NBA team. I asked my family and close friends. In my heart, I just thought it was the right time to move on from basketball.”
The two sports don’t necessarily go hand in hand, but for Chase, basketball and volleyball have always been intertwined. During his senior year of high school, he was named National Player of the Year for indoor volleyball by Volleyball Magazine while also earning McDonald’s All-American honors in basketball. He shared co-MVP honors in the McDonald’s All-American Game with future NBA superstar Kevin Durant.
After three seasons of college basketball at Arizona under Hall of Fame Coach Lute Olson, Chase declared for the 2009 NBA Draft and was selected #44 overall by the Detroit Pistons. From 2009 to 2016, he played for four NBA teams—the Houston Rockets, Minnesota Timberwolves, Indiana Pacers and Phoenix Suns— before spending one season in the EuroLeague with Spanish club Saski Baskonia.
Statistically, his best NBA season came in 2010-2011, when he averaged 9.8 points and 3.6 rebounds per game. He was also selected to participate in the 2012 NBA Slam Dunk Contest.
“Always in the back of my mind was that I could play once my career in the NBA was done,” Chase says of volleyball. “I didn’t see it beyond the AVP and the domestic tour, but playing internationally came later when I knew my body was still healthy and athletic enough.”
When AVP legend Sean Rosenthal learned Chase was contemplating retirement from basketball, he reached out. Sean was searching for a new partner, and the two
had already spent several summers playing together for fun while Chase rented a home in Hermosa Beach during NBA offseasons.
Partnering with Sean in his first season proved invaluable. Chase not only learned from the two-time Olympian but also earned direct entry into the main draw of tournaments from the start.
“I think it was the right time for him to make that switch,” says Sean. “A year earlier or a year later, it might not have allowed him to make that run in 2024. It all worked out timing-wise and growth-wise.”
From the start, Sean knew Chase’s size and confidence would be advantageous. He quickly learned too that he was partnered with one of the best setters on the tour. “He just believes in himself,” Sean says. “He has all the athletic tools.”
When Chase began his beach volleyball career, he set two major goals for himself: winning the Manhattan Beach Open and reaching the Olympics. He has now accomplished both. Alongside then-partner Miles Evans, Chase was one of two teams representing the United States in men’s beach volleyball at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. A year later, the pair captured the Manhattan Beach Open title.
“The South Bay is the mecca of beach volleyball. It is one of the places in the world that lives for the sport,” says Chase. “When they have tournaments here, it is jam-packed. You can’t find a seat. They love the sport. They know the sport. I’ve been lucky enough to win both Hermosa and Manhattan, and it was such a cool experience.”
Chase believes much of his success comes from his work ethic and professionalism. He also recognizes the lessons he learned in basketball about taking care of his body and maintaining longevity on the road translated seamlessly to beach volleyball
It was during the Olympics, where he and Miles finished ninth overall, that Chase finally felt he had become the player he always envisioned.
“During my Olympic run, I got in a groove of being a high-level, consistent player. Before that, I was sort of up and down,” he says. “Pretty early on, I felt like
I was consistent at a high level. It showed me that I could compete at that level.”
After a successful run with Miles, Chase recently teamed up with fellow AVP standout Trevor Crabb, another highly accomplished player on tour. Chase believes the partnership has the potential to thrive and perhaps even lead them to the next Olympics.
“I want to go to the 2028 Olympics and medal. Now that I know the journey of what it takes to get there, I’m even more eager to do it,” says Chase. “As long as I continue to get better, that is the ultimate goal—especially with it being in Los Angeles.” ■
“Always in the back of my mind was that I could play once my career in the NBA was done.”
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How one South Bay amateur golfer moved past years of pain and back onto the course, thanks to Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance.
WRITTEN
BY
ANNE M. RUSSELL | PHOTOGRAPHED
BY
SHANE O’DONNELL
Mark Weber approached spine surgery the way he approached most things: carefully, methodically and armed with research. A retired engineer, he spent more than 20 years managing back pain that steadily worsened and eventually included sciatica. He had given up his favorite sport, golf, because of the pain. By the time he scheduled his third consultation, he was looking for a surgical solution.
That’s when he met Remi Ajiboye, MD, an orthopedic spine surgeon at Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance. Early in their conversation, Dr. Ajiboye explained how robotic guidance could support surgical planning and the precise placement of spinal hardware—technology that immediately resonated with Mark.
Dr. Ajiboye specializes in minimally invasive spine surgery and complex spinal reconstruction. For select cases, he uses the ExcelsiusGPS robotic guidance system from Globus Medical, which was made possible through the generosity of the medical center’s philanthropic community.
Mark, a meticulous woodworker and tinkerer, was impressed by the robot’s ability to guide precise hardware placement during his spine surgery. This technology offered a level of confidence he could trust.
“Dr. Ajiboye used a different technique that seemed like a much more elegant solution. Plus, he had the robot,” says Mark, who had researched back surgeries extensively on YouTube and Google. He also liked Dr. Ajiboye’s caring and communicative style.
“Excelsius improves the accuracy and safety of spine surgery and helps minimize complications,” says Dr. Ajiboye. “Little Company of Mary is the only hospital in the South Bay that offers this leading-edge technology. It allows us to execute a spine surgery in a very precise fashion. I’m talking about 1 millimeter of accuracy in terms of the placement of screws. And in the spine, we’re working with very narrow corridors with important structures like nerves, so precision is of utmost importance.”
Mark was diagnosed with severe lumbar stenosis—a condition caused by compression of the spinal nerves in the lower back, leading to pain. To relieve the pressure, Dr. Ajiboye needed to free the compressed nerves and stabilize Mark’s lower spine by fusing two vertebrae.
The procedure was performed through a few 1-inch, minimally invasive incisions in Mark’s side and back—unlike traditional open spine surgery, which involves much larger incisions. The entire surgery took about three hours.
“I was walking the day I was released from the hospital,” says Mark, who returned home to Palos Verdes the day following his surgery.
“His recovery was remarkable,” says Mark’s wife, Gale. “I went
with Mark on all of his visits to Dr. Ajiboye. I got to know the doctor; he’s very personable and easy to talk to.”
After seeing Mark’s improvement firsthand, Gale decided to address her own chronic neck pain. About a year after Mark’s surgery, Dr. Ajiboye performed an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion on Gale—a 90-minute procedure that helped alleviate her pain. Like Mark, she spent one night in the hospital before returning home, and she is rapidly regaining her strength.
Dr. Ajiboye says the Webers both took their recovery seriously, following his guidance for physical therapy and exercise. Today, Mark is pain-free, and Gale is rapidly regaining her strength.
They attend Pilates classes twice a week at a studio near their home, walk daily on Palos Verdes trails and stay committed to movement. Mark lifts weights twice a week, and he’s happy to be back on the golf course.
For him, returning to the fairway is the clearest sign that daily life no longer revolves around pain or limitation. The couple’s energetic South Bay lifestyle includes moving freely, staying active and fully enjoying the days ahead.
PROVIDENCE LITTLE COMPANY OF MARY MEDICAL CENTERS
SAN PEDRO & TORRANCE
844-510-HEAL (4325)
PROVIDENCE.ORG/SOUTHBAY
IG: @PROVIDENCECALIFORNIA
FB: PROVIDENCE LITTLE COMPANY OF MARY (SOUTH BAY)
LINKEDIN: PROVIDENCE LITTLE COMPANY OF MARY
Written by Tanya Monaghan
Photographed by
Rian Basilio & Alexis Peterson
Amanda Lee meets for coffee at Stecca in Hermosa Beach, just across the street from the wellness center she opened a few years ago. It is a fitting place to begin: casual, familiar and rooted in the neighborhood she has become such a meaningful part of. Within minutes, it becomes clear why people are drawn to her.
She carries an open smile and a natural ease. She is striking, but it is her warmth that lingers and makes people feel immediately at home.
Kuleana Holistic Health feels like an extension of Amanda herself. The space is layered and alive, filled with lush greenery, warm light and walls wrapped in murals painted by her husband, Rian Basilio, an artist in his own right.
One wall, featuring a bird-of-paradise, draws immediate attention. It is bold yet calming, symbolic without being overstated.
Like everything Amanda creates, there is meaning behind it. The bird-of-paradise appears in her branding, referencing a yoga pose, but it also holds personal significance. Rian released an album titled Birds of Paradise when they first started dating, and a towering plant of the same name grows in their yard in El Porto—often mistaken for a palm tree.
That tree, planted decades ago, rises above their home—easy to overlook without a second glance. Its flowers sit high, nearly hidden, revealing themselves only to those who look up. It mirrors Amanda’s work. The beauty is present, but it requires a pause to be fully seen.
Amanda’s story begins far from the South Bay, on Martha’s Vineyard, where she was raised in a deeply service-oriented family. Her mother joined the military at age 18, and giving back was a constant presence in their lives. Volunteering was routine, and that early sense of responsibility to others became foundational.
She graduated from high school at 16 and followed a traditional path into medicine, attending Northeastern University with plans to become an OB-GYN. It was a clear and logical trajectory, but it would not remain her path.
After college Amanda moved to the South Bay,
arriving in Hermosa Beach at a time in her life that felt both expansive and uncertain. The medical career she had envisioned proved difficult to pursue in a practical sense. Entry-level roles offered little financial stability, making it nearly impossible to manage student loans.
Like many other residents, she found herself working within the local community, becoming part of the rhythm of Hermosa long before opening her own space. Everything shifted during a trip to Sri Lanka.
While volunteering abroad, she began practicing yoga daily. What started as a physical pursuit quickly deepened into something more transformative. Within months the practice changed not only her body but her perspective. As she worked on medical school applications, a realization surfaced: Healing did not have to follow the path she had originally imagined.
Back in the South Bay, Amanda immersed herself in teaching—leading yoga, spin and group fitness classes—sometimes up to 15 sessions a week. The work was fulfilling, but it came at a cost. Physical strain eventually forced her to slow down.
Acupuncture entered her life as a solution for knee pain, but its effects extended far beyond relief. It improved sleep, softened her interactions and created a sense of internal balance. Amanda realized that acupuncture is a form of medicine that addresses the
whole person.
That experience led her to enroll at Emperor’s College to study traditional Chinese medicine. The path aligned naturally with what had initially drawn her to health care: supporting others and working closely with women. Acupuncture offered that, along with the ability to shape her own career and life.
After graduating in 2018, she began building her practice, which would eventually become Kuleana Holistic Health in Hermosa Beach. “Kuleana” translates to responsibility, its meaning reflecting purpose, a personal way of showing up in the world. It is about alignment with one’s health, choices and direction.
That philosophy defines the space she has created. Kuleana is more than an acupuncture clinic. It is a thoughtfully integrated wellness environment offering infrared sauna, massage, lymphatic drainage, cosmetic acupuncture and more. Each element is designed to support the body holistically.
The vision was simple: to create a place where people could access multiple forms of care in one setting.
Amanda built it independently, but its evolution became a collective effort. Friends contributed to the design, clients became collaborators and local relationships formed a strong support system. The center feels deeply rooted in community.
Then there is Piggy Smalls. Readers of Southbay magazine may recognize the potbelly pig, a local favorite. What many may not know is that Piggy Smalls belongs to Amanda and Rian. The couple’s story reflects the same sense of serendipity found throughout Amanda’s life.
On their first date, the conversation turned to their dream pets. Rian said his was a pig, and Amanda replied that she was already actively looking for one. The connection felt undeniable. It was a small moment, but it captured something essential about her: depth paired with a sense of lightness. She is deeply committed to her work but never overly serious about herself.
Amanda is building something enduring in the wellness field, grounded in experience, shaped by community and guided by intention. Her message remains clear: Take care of yourself. ■
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Architecture firm dSPACE Studio creates healthy homes from the inside out.
Enduring homes are defined as much by how they feel as by how they look. Along the coast, where light, air and landscape shape daily life, a quiet idea of luxury is taking hold—one expressed not only through beauty but by how a home supports health and wellbeing. Well-designed spaces bring calm, focus and comfort to everyday living.
This is the work of dSPACE Studio. Known for its warm modern aesthetic, this AIA award-winning residential architecture firm designs homes as immersive, multisensory environments—personalized
spaces that respond to site, climate and the rhythms of everyday life. Drawing from neuroarchitecture and biophilic design, their work explores how light, materiality, sound and spatial flow influence how we feel, think and live.
“We now spend as much as 90% of our time indoors, disconnected from the natural world,” says dSPACE principal and founder, Kevin Toukoumidis, AIA. “But humans evolved to thrive in constant dialogue with nature: dynamic light, moving air, and ever-changing sounds and scents.”
It’s a profound shift. In many ways, we
are Stone Age creatures living in a modern world—just beginning to understand how the spaces we inhabit impact wellness.
“The built environment has an extraordinary influence on health and well-being,” Kevin adds.
In practice, this perspective reveals itself in subtle but powerful ways. A home is designed not just for views but for how sound travels—buffering ambient noise while allowing breezes and distant waves to register within.
Transitions between spaces are calibrated to how they are used. Ceilings lift to
create openness, then compress to foster a sense of refuge. Materials are selected not only for visual composition but for texture and warmth—surfaces that invite touch and register temperature. Even scent and airflow are considered, with operable window walls bringing the seasons into daily life.
“THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT HAS AN EXTRAORDINARY INFLUENCE ON HEALTH AND WELL-BEING.”
Clients often describe the result in simple terms: “The home just feels right.”
That’s thanks to neuroarchitecture—an emerging field at the intersection of medicine and architecture that explores how our bodies constantly process environmental cues. Proportion, rhythm, acoustics and light all register subconsciously, influencing
stress, blood pressure, mood and sleep. Over time these signals accumulate, impacting long-term health and well-being in ways that are subtle yet profound. dSPACE approaches each project as a personalized environment, tailored to how each client lives. Spaces support daily rhythms, from morning routines grounded
in natural light to quiet areas designed for focus and restoration. Kitchens open to outdoor spaces for gathering, while private zones are carefully tuned for comfort and retreat. Subtle calibrations of light, shadow, air and material create environments that feel intuitive—supporting a healthier, more balanced way of living.
“It’s a highly collaborative process—one our clients truly enjoy,” Kevin notes.
The result: homes that feel refined yet relaxed. Whether set along the coast, in hillside neighborhoods or within more private landscapes, each project responds to its environment and its occupants. Spaces are attuned to daily rhythms. Views are carefully framed to invite curiosity and quiet joy. And materials age in ways that deepen a sense of connection and comfort.
The effect is subtle but enduring—an invisible luxury. Homes that quietly support health and well-being in everyday life.
DSPACE STUDIO
925 LA BREA AVE., LOS ANGELES 213-588-3392
INFO@DSPACESTUDIO.COM DSPACESTUDIO.COM @DSPACE_STUDIO
HIGH IN THE AUSTRIAN ALPS, STANGLWIRT BLENDS HERITAGE, HEALTH AND SUSTAINABILITY—GUIDED BY THE SAME FAMILY FOR OVER FOUR CENTURIES.
Written by Darren Elms
While working in hospitality in San Diego, Maria Hauser had a brief encounter with a fellow Austrian that would turn into a lasting friendship. On her first day on the job, her general manager took her to a fundraiser attended by then–California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger.
“What do I say?” she remembers thinking. “I only have half a minute.”
So, she greeted him in her native dialect—straight from the heart. “He must have loved it,” she says.
She mentioned her family’s resort back in Austria, Stanglwirt. Having visited once before, the governor promised to return.
Much later, back at her family’s business in the Alps, a guest stood at reception asking for Maria. “I promised you I’d be back,” said Schwarzenegger, who now visits Stanglwirt and the family at least twice a year.
Though Stanglwirt has hosted many luminaries over its long history—including Bing Crosby, Muhammad Ali, Audrey Hepburn and Hillary Clinton—it is spaloving, ski-loving and sport-loving families who keep this remarkable eco-friendly wellness resort thriving. Nestled in the shadow of the picturesque Wilder Kaiser mountain range, the resort has been sustained for over 400 years by a deep-rooted spirit of family tradition.
Maria and her siblings, Elisabeth and Johannes, help run the business owned by their parents, Balthasar and Magdalena. Together, they represent the 11th generation to leave their mark on “the Inn on the Prama,” which first opened as a wine tavern in 1564, serving silver and copper miners affected by a regional plague.
Over the centuries, the inn evolved—surviving wars, fires and financial hardship—while expanding to include a farm, a dairy, musical gatherings and more. Today, under Balthasar’s leadership, the resort features cutting-edge green initiatives, state-of-the-art spa and sporting facilities, and Austria’s first private Lipizzaner horse stud farm. Despite these advancements, Stanglwirt remains deeply connected to its agricultural roots.
“Our dairy cows provide the milk for the cheese, yogurt and cream in your cappuccino,” Maria explains. “They’re also really cute and live very good lives. That’s why my grandfather installed windows in one of our restaurants—so guests could see the cows and where their milk comes from.”
The original centuries-old “Stangl” inn, serving authentic Tyrolean cuisine, is just one of several dining
options. Guests can also enjoy the Dreiklang international kitchen and Leni’s, a newer addition offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Much of the produce is homegrown or locally sourced and as organic as possible.
The accommodations reflect the same natural philosophy. Arolla pine is carefully handcrafted using traditional construction methods, while solid-wood furniture, plush cotton robes and towels, wool carpets and soft linen bedding underscore the resort’s commitment to sustainability and authentic Alpine craftsmanship.
The spa and sporting facilities occupy a large portion of the property, offering countless opportunities for fitness and relaxation. The sauna complex alone features five saunas and steam baths, secluded grottos, pools and tranquil lounging areas. Children are welcome in designated areas, including a playful water world with waterfalls and a slide.
Guests can indulge in a full range of treatments, such as massages, facials, baths and body wraps. A standout experience is a Rolfing session with therapist Sascha
Bauer, where the body’s fascial network is aligned with gravity to promote natural posture and ease of movement. After just one hour with Sascha, I booked a 10-session program at home to continue the process.
For those seeking activity, there’s no shortage of adrenaline. Tennis (five indoor carpet courts and three outdoor clay courts), yoga and Pilates are available year-round, while seasonal offerings include golf, hiking, biking and skiing. The Stanglwirt riding school features 24 Lipizzaner horses, with the riding ring visible from the lobby bar.
Operating a resort of this scale—with 350 staff, returning guests and an extensive network of buildings— requires significant resources. Recently Stanglwirt introduced a cutting-edge power plant that converts regional wood chips into electricity, heat and biochar— efficiently and with low emissions. It is currently the only facility of its kind in the global hotel industry, showcasing a closed-loop, environmentally responsible energy system.
Fittingly, the descendants of the family who once owned the sawmill on that land now operate the plant.
“It all came full circle,” says Maria. “It’s still their business in a way—and it’s generational. That’s why I call it a story made in heaven.”
Family remains central to everything at Stanglwirt. Each sibling brings unique strengths that contribute to the resort’s success.
The quickest and easiest way to reach Stanglwirt is via Munich, less than two hours away by car. Fortunately, a layover in the Bavarian capital offers plenty to enjoy: shopping, sightseeing and, of course, stein after stein of local beer.
Book a stay at the historic Bayerischer Hof, home to its own nightclub, theatre, six bars and five restaurants, including the two-Michelinstarred Atelier. Recently renovated public spaces and spacious rooms—ranging from classic to contemporary—set a high standard for comfort and style.
From the hotel, Old Town Munich is easily explored on foot. Cobblestone streets lead to landmarks like Marienplatz, where the ornate Neues Rathaus and its famous Glockenspiel draw crowds daily. Nearby, the twin domes of Frauenkirche define the skyline, while Viktualienmarkt offers a lively taste of local flavors and Bavarian specialties. The Munich Residenz adds another layer of grandeur, making the area a compact blend of history, culture and energy.
No visit is complete without a stop at the legendary Hofbräuhaus München. Founded in 1589, it’s known for its lively atmosphere, communal wooden tables and traditional Bavarian music— a place where locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy hearty food, giant steins of beer and a centuries-old social tradition.
“We share a common goal,” Maria says, “to keep this place healthy, preserve its spirit and pass it on to the next generation.”
When not in Austria, the family spends time at their vacation home in Santa Barbara, maintaining a strong California connection.
“I had such a wonderful time living and working there,” Maria adds. “It’s still my home in many ways.” ■
132 BNL HEALTH BRAIN, NEURO & LIFE
134 BEACH DENTAL CLUB BITA DAVOODIAN, DDS
136 COMMONS CLINIC
138 STEVEN K. OKAMOTO, DDS, INC. RENEE HUMBERT, RDH & KATHY LARA, RDH
140 UCLA HEALTH TORRANCE SKYPARK PRIMARY & SPECIALTY CARE
142 THRIVE BOUTIQUE SENIOR LIVING JOHN E. NEMETH
144 PACIFIC NEUROSCIENCE INSTITUTE SOUTH BAY
146 KRISTIN EGAN, MD, FACS
148 LUSKINOIC EMILY MILLER, MD
150 FULBRIGHT DENTAL
152 CHRISTINE PETTI, MD, FACS PLASTIC SURGERY & SPA BELLA MEDICAL DAY SPA
EDITED BY LAURA L. WATTS
Our practice is built around a shared commitment to delivering timely, highquality neurological care that meets the evolving needs of our community. We are continually working to expand access and reduce delays so patients can receive appropriate evaluation and treatment as efficiently as possible.
We recently welcomed nurse practitioner Kristina Murata, who brings over a decade of experience in evaluating and managing both adult and pediatric neurological disorders. Her addition has further strengthened our ability to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care.
In addition to clinical services, we are proud to offer a dedicated clinical research division led by Melanie Lampa. This program provides patients with access to innovative therapies and clinical trials that may not otherwise be available to them, broadening treatment options and advancing neurological care.
Our team is supported by an experienced and responsive medical staff that helps ensure smooth coordination of care, including scheduling and patient support across our Los Angeles and Torrance locations. Together, we strive to create a collaborative, compassionate environment focused on achieving the best possible outcomes for our patients.
Consistency is often difficult for patients not because of a lack of motivation, but
because of systemic barriers that make it hard to access and maintain care. In the post-pandemic era, many parts of the health care system have been strained. Patients often face delays in getting appointments, interruptions in followup or difficulty establishing an ongoing relationship with a provider—making it challenging to stay consistent with their treatment plan, medications or lifestyle changes. Consistency in health requires timely access, clear communication and a stable care team.
One of the most challenging aspects of our work is discussing new diagnoses of chronic neurological conditions, whether it’s epilepsy, dementia, Parkinson’s or other progressive diseases. These conversations carry a lot of weight, as they often change how patients and their families view the future. While there is almost always something we can offer in terms of treatment and guidance, delivering that news in a way that is honest yet hopeful requires empathy and clarity.
Meeting patients where they are starts by truly listening and understanding—not only to what they are saying, but what they’re hoping for, worried about or trying to make sense of. It involves recognizing their level of medical knowledge, emotional state and individual goals, then tailoring the plan accordingly. That may
• Neurological evaluations for adults
• Neurological evaluations for pediatric patients
• Botox for migraine, cervical dystonia & spasticity
mean taking extra time to explain information patients have read online, clarifying misconceptions and providing thoughtful education. It may mean focusing on reassurance, validation or shared decisionmaking. Ultimately, it is about ensuring that each patient leaves feeling heard, informed and supported in a way that aligns with their needs and expectations.
Dr. Lisa Cook: What I love most about the South Bay is the strong sense of community. It became clear to me very quickly that this is a place where people genuinely care about one another. As a result, our patients are engaged and invested in their health, which makes it especially meaningful to be part of their care. It creates an environment where providing thoughtful, compassionate care feels both valued and impactful.
1959 Kingsdale Ave., Redondo Beach | 310-793-1000 | drdavoodian.com
Dentistry is an intensely personal field. Our patients are often anxious, vulnerable or in pain. The ability to read a patient’s nonverbal cues, calm their fears and foster a welcoming, respectful environment build trust. These efforts enhance patient satisfaction, team cohesion and, ultimately, the success of the practice.
What I love most about living and working in the South Bay is the balance. Being near the ocean brings a certain calm and perspective to daily life, and that tends to carry over into how people approach their health. There’s a strong appreciation for staying active and taking care of yourself. There’s also a real sense of community here. I often see patients out and about— at local events, coffee shops or just walking along the beach—and it makes the relationships feel more personal.
From a professional standpoint, I appreciate that people in the South Bay are generally proactive and engaged when it comes to their health. It creates an environment where prevention, education and long-term care really resonate, which makes the work even more fulfilling.
It's surprising how closely oral health is connected to overall health. We’re often looking for early signs of systemic conditions—like inflammation, nutritional deficiencies, or even sleep-related issues— during routine exams. It’s not just about teeth; it’s about the bigger picture. Managing anxiety, building trust and helping people feel comfortable are just as important as the clinical work. Creating a positive experience can make the difference between someone staying consistent with care or avoiding it altogether.
As a dentist, my commitment to health care doesn’t stop when I leave the office. I see oral health as deeply connected to overall well-being, so I carry that perspective into everyday life. That means educating friends, family and my community about preventive care, sharing simple habits that make a big difference, and helping people understand the link between oral health and systemic conditions.
I also stay engaged by keeping up with new research, participating in community outreach events and supporting programs that improve access to dental care for underserved populations. Whether it’s volunteering at free clinics, visiting schools to talk about oral hygiene or just being a reliable source of information, I believe being a health care provider is a responsibility that extends far beyond the clinic walls.
Wellness goes far beyond simply not being sick. It’s about balance, prevention and quality of life. I see wellness as the integration of oral health with overall physical and mental well-being. It’s not just about having no cavities or gum disease; it's also being free from pain, able to eat comfortably, speak confidently and
• Preventive & comprehensive dental care
• Invisalign & whitening
• Veneers & crowns
• Implants & dentures
• Digital and laser dentistry
feel good about your smile.
Wellness also includes daily habits and long-term choices: nutrition, stress management, sleep and consistent selfcare. In dentistry, that means focusing on prevention, patient education and helping people build sustainable routines rather than only treating problems when they arise. Ultimately, wellness is feeling your best and functioning at your highest level with health practices that support you not just today, but over a lifetime.
“Meeting patients where they are” means recognizing that every person comes in with a different background, comfort level and set of priorities—and adjusting my approach accordingly. That might mean tailoring how I communicate. Some patients want detailed explanations and to be involved in every decision, while others feel overwhelmed and prefer a simpler, step-by-step plan.
It also means being mindful of dental anxiety—taking extra time and ensuring patients feel in control during their visit. It can include offering realistic options and prioritizing what matters most.
At its core, it’s about respect and partnership. Instead of expecting patients to fit into a rigid model of care, I try to create an environment where they feel heard, supported and empowered to take the next step—whatever that step may be for them.
Douglas Park, 3828 Schaufele Ave., Suite 320, Long Beach | Bixby Knolls, 3610 Long Beach Blvd., Suite 202, Long Beach
Additional Los Angeles Locations | 310-437-7921 | commonsclinic.com | @commonsclinic
To us at Commons Clinic, wellness means performing at your peak—physically, mentally and functionally. We want our patients returning to the activities they love, moving with confidence and living without limitation. True wellness is an active state, and we build individualized care plans to get people there and keep them there.
The most rewarding part of our job is hearing from a patient who’s back on the ski slopes or playing with their kids after surgery for a problem that they thought would sideline them permanently. The most difficult part is navigating a health care system that too often prioritizes volume over value. That’s exactly why we built Commons Clinic differently—to give patients and physicians a better experience from start to finish.
Our physicians and team prioritize the same fundamentals we prescribe: sleep, movement and stress management. Medicine can be a demanding profession, and we believe that practitioners who invest in their own health bring a sharper focus and deeper empathy to every patient interaction.
Showing up is so important. Consistency in physical therapy, follow-up appointments and rehabilitation protocols matters more than any single treatment. Patients who stay engaged with their recovery plans heal faster and experience better long-term outcomes. The science is clear: Recovery is an active commitment, and we support our patients every step of the way to make that commitment achievable.
People know that early intervention is better than waiting, yet most delay seeking care until pain becomes unmanageable. By the time many patients arrive, a condition that could have been treated conservatively now requires more intensive intervention. Closing that gap is a mission for us. We’ve built an environment designed to lower every barrier to getting care sooner.
The fragmented care model is overdue for a rethink. Patients shouldn’t have to coordinate between five different offices just to treat one condition. At Commons Clinic, imaging, physical therapy, surgical consultation and pain management all live under one roof. When care teams communicate in real time, diagnoses sharpen and outcomes improve dramatically.
• Orthopedic surgical care
• Minimally invasive spine surgery
• MAKO assisted joint replacement & restoration
• Interventional pain management
• Minimally invasive foot & ankle surgery
Southern California is a physically active community, which means we see both the benefits and the costs of that lifestyle. High-performance athletes and weekend warriors alike push their bodies hard. The strength is the motivation people bring to recovery. The challenge is that active lifestyles can mask injury until it becomes serious. We encourage patients to treat prevention as part of performance.
The South Bay has a genuinely unique energy—an active, community-minded culture that values quality of life. People here don’t just want to survive their health challenges; they want to thrive. That ambition aligns perfectly with our mission. We’re proud to bring world-class surgical care to a community that truly appreciates and embraces it.
RENEE HUMBERT, RDH & KATHY LARA, RDH
22330 Hawthorne Blvd., Suite E, Torrance | 310-373-1120 | okamotodds.com
Renee: I started working for Dr. Steve when I was 15 years old. I have loved every step of the way—from working in the front office in high school to assisting on weekends throughout college and ending in hygiene. Dr. Michelle and I have worked together since we were teenagers, and it is great to continue to work together as dentist and hygienist!
Kathy: My commitment and dedication to my profession do not stop when the patient leaves the dental chair. I remain a resource and advocate to the community by helping people understand how their daily lifestyle choices—including brushing, flossing and nutrition—can have a profound impact on their overall oral and systemic health. I also attend yearly seminars and dental conventions to stay informed on the most recent research, technological advances and evidence-based practices.
Renee: A water pick is beneficial to any routine—even more so as we age and our teeth shift, our hand dexterity declines and we receive more restorative treatment.
Kathy: Flossing reaches where a toothbrush can’t—between teeth and under the gumline—removing plaque that leads to gum disease and decay. It’s a simple step with a big impact, even though it’s often the most difficult habit for patients to start and maintain.
Kathy: Sometimes people try to take on too many goals at once. Consistency is not about perfection; it is about focusing on the repetition of small, sustainable steps in the hopes of leading to longterm adherence.
Especially as we age, our teeth and gums need extra support. There is usually an increased risk of gum disease, root decay and dry mouth caused by medication side effects. Choosing to remain consistent with regular dental visits and home care can set you up for your best dental health.
Renee: The most rewarding part of my job is the relationships I build with patients. While I love helping people improve their oral health, patient interaction is what makes my workdays so enjoyable. Getting
• Comprehensive general dental care
• Aesthetic cosmetic dentistry
• Hygiene & periodontal care
• Conventional & implant prosthodontics
• • All-on-X implant prosthodontics
to know people throughout the years and being with them through different phases of life is special, and each interaction is meaningful to me.
Kathy: My family is truly the center of my life. My son, Zachary, is such a happy, friendly ball of energy! Watching him grow and thrive, even with the little things, has brought so much joy. I’m endlessly grateful for my supportive husband and parents, who shaped who I am. After losing my sister to breast cancer in 2022, I strive to honor her by living with kindness, love and compassion—and by cherishing the people who matter most.
Renee: Family is my top priority! Living in close proximity allows siblings, parents, nieces and nephews to get together every Sunday for dinner, and it is something I look forward to every week.
Renee: I love the balance living and working in the South Bay brings. It has the excitement of Los Angeles mixed with the relaxed, easygoing beach vibes.
Kathy: The South Bay offers a unique and relaxed pace of life full of opportunity—a setting where you feel grounded and connected to the people that make up the community.
TORRANCE SKYPARK PRIMARY & SPECIALTY CARE
2780 Skypark Dr., Suite 110, Torrance | 310-265-8422 | uclahealth.org
UCLA Health Torrance Skypark is a leading choice for families seeking a trusted family medicine doctor or primary care doctor in Torrance. Our physicians provide comprehensive, whole-family care, offering preventive services, chronic condition management and same-day appointments to meet your health needs quickly and conveniently. Patients benefit from UCLA Health’s clinical excellence paired with the accessibility of a community-based location in the South Bay. Serving Torrance and surrounding areas in Los Angeles County, our clinic also offers coordinated specialty care, allowing patients to receive advanced treatment without traveling far. Whether you need long-term primary care, support for acute concerns or referrals to UCLA Health specialists, our Skypark team delivers compassionate, personalized care backed by one of the nation’s top health systems.
The primary care physicians (PCPs) 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 board-certified in internal and family medicine, meaning we’re qualified to care for everyone in the family. We build strong relationships and deliver personalized, well-rounded care.
Mindy Goh, DO, Family Medicine:
One small change that can improve your health is adding 10 to 15 minutes of walking to your day. This can help control blood sugar, improve sleep, boost your mood, and support a healthy weight.
Pinting Chen, MD, Family Medicine:
What I love about the South Bay is its rich diversity, amazing variety of food and year-round pleasant weather. Plus, being so close to the beach adds the perfect touch of relaxation to an already vibrant and welcoming community.
Joel Thomas, MD, Internal Medicine: As a physician, technology helps me stay connected to my patients beyond the exam room. Through messaging, virtual care and health tracking, I better understand their daily lives and challenges. This allows more timely support, meaningful conversations and helps patients feel seen, heard and more in control of their health.
Kenneth Leung, MD, Internal Medicine: Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician ensures that you have someone who knows your health history well and understands your lifestyle and health goals. Your physician will ensure that you have the appropriate preventive care, treat common illnesses and manage chronic conditions, and also help coordinate your care with specialists.
• Primary care for children & adults
• Dermatology
• Preventive care
• Chronic disease management
• Care coordination
Chris Gornes, MD, Family Medicine: Patients today have almost unlimited access to health care information online. Helping them navigate what can be an overwhelming amount of information (and misinformation) to proactively formulate a health plan that is right for each individual is a challenging but rewarding part of my job. It’s important to work with each patient’s personal experiences, preferences and limitations to create a health plan that the patient understands and accepts, rather than just prescribing medications that remain unused and ineffective.
Charmi Shah, MD, Internal Medicine: Wellness means caring for the whole person—mind, body and soul. It’s nurturing mental health with compassion, supporting physical health through mindful habits, and embracing joy through connection, purpose and the activities that bring meaning. True wellness is balance, where each part of ourselves is valued and supported.
JOHN E. NEMETH, CO-FOUNDER & CEO
2011 Graham Ave., Redondo Beach | 424-247-9595 | thrivebsl.com
Senior living is long overdue for a hospitality mindset. Too often, aging services feel institutional or transactional. We created THRIVE Boutique Senior Living to feel more like a luxury coastal residence or boutique hospitality experience than a traditional care facility. Families today expect elevated experiences, individualized support and transparency—and older adults deserve environments that are beautiful, dignified and deeply human-centered.
At THRIVE Boutique, health and wellness are about far more than remaining safe or managing medical needs. We believe older adults should live with dignity, purpose, joy and social connection as they age. We support the whole person through attentive care, engaging experiences, authentic relationships, beautiful surroundings and hospitality-inspired service that nurtures emotional, physical, cognitive and social well-being every day. We believe the right environment can be truly transformative.
As people are living longer and healthier lives, the conversation around aging should evolve beyond simply managing decline. The 80+ population is becoming one of the fastest-growing age groups in America, and they prioritize wellness, purpose and overall quality of life. We offer a more intimate, relationship-centered
approach to senior living supported by attentive care, elevated hospitality and engaging experiences.
Many adult children in the South Bay are balancing demanding careers, raising children and supporting aging parents at the same time, which can feel emotionally and logistically overwhelming. We strive to provide families with genuine peace of mind by creating a warm, attentive environment where older adults can truly thrive as they age. A hallmark of the THRIVE Boutique model is our exceptional 1-to-3 caregiverto-resident ratio, which allows us to provide one of the highest levels of personal attention and genuine human connection in the senior living industry. Families can feel confident their loved ones are safe, connected, supported and enjoying a high quality of life in their later years.
Personalized care begins with truly knowing each resident—their routines, preferences, interests, life story and individual wellness needs. Because we intentionally maintain an intimate boutique environment, our team can provide attentive care that feels warm, responsive and deeply personal rather than standardized or institutional. From customized dining preferences and engaging daily experiences to wellness-focused programming and white-glove hospitality, every aspect
• Boutique senior living
• Personalized senior care
• Assisted living & memory care
• All-inclusive living
• White-glove hospitality
of the resident experience is thoughtfully designed to help older adults feel comfortable, connected, valued and able to continue to thrive as they age.
At THRIVE Boutique Senior Living, our residents’ daily lives become easier, more connected and more supported from the very beginning. Our warm boutique environment feels more like a luxury coastal residence than a traditional senior living community. Families frequently tell us that they see renewed confidence, improved social engagement, better nutrition and a greater sense of joy and purpose shortly after their loved one moves in. Many are surprised to discover how dramatically the right environment, attentive support and genuine human connection can improve an older adult’s overall quality of life. Often families initially reach out simply seeking guidance and peace of mind, only to discover how transformative the right care environment can be for their loved one.
5215 Torrance Blvd., Torrance | 424-212-5361 | @pacificneuro | @drwallymd
Wellness means preserving a person’s ability to fully participate in life—physically, mentally, emotionally and socially. In neurosurgery, success is not just removing a tumor or fixing a spinal problem. It’s helping patients return to their families, careers, passions and independence with confidence and dignity.
One of the biggest shifts in our practice came from seeing how dramatically patients benefited from enhanced recovery pathways after brain surgery. Patients who historically had stayed in the hospital for nearly a week were recovering faster, needing no opioids and returning home sooner (often the day of surgery or the next). Surgical success depends not only on the operation itself, but on the entire recovery experience surrounding it.
Earlier in our careers, many surgeons believed that recovery after major brain and spine surgery had to be prolonged and difficult. We’ve learned that with minimally invasive techniques, thoughtful perioperative care, early mobilization and better patient education, many patients can recover far faster and more comfortably than we once thought possible.
Consistency with sleep, movement, hydration and nutrition often matters more than extreme health trends or “quick fixes.” Small sustainable habits practiced daily typically outperform aggressive short-term efforts. We routinely encourage people to prioritize preventive care and address symptoms early instead of waiting until problems become advanced.
The most rewarding part of our job is helping patients navigate some of the most frightening moments of their lives and seeing them regain hope and function afterward. The most difficult part is delivering life-changing news to patients and families when the diagnosis or prognosis is devastating. Those conversations never become easy, nor should they.
People are often surprised by how collaborative modern neurosurgery has become. The best outcomes come from multidisciplinary teamwork involving neurologists, neuro-oncologists, ENT surgeons, rehabilitation specialists, nurses,
• Degenerative & complex spine surgery
• Brain tumor, pituitary & skull base surgery
• Minimally invasive neurosurgery
• Stroke & neurovascular care
• Treatment of movement disorders
anesthesiologists and many others. Even highly complex surgical care is rarely accomplished by one person alone.
The South Bay is very engaged in health and wellness, which is a tremendous strength. People here value active lifestyles and preventive health. At the same time, many high-performing professionals delay seeking care because they are busy balancing careers, family and responsibilities. Early evaluation can often make treatment simpler and outcomes better.
South Bay patients genuinely value relationships and continuity of care here. It’s rewarding to bring academiclevel brain and spine care directly to this community so patients no longer feel they need to leave the South Bay for world-class treatment.
2809 Sepulveda Blvd., Manhattan Beach | 3655 Lomita Blvd. #150, Torrance | 310-426-8415 | drkristinegan.com
Wellness means physical and mental self-care, which can help prevent or even improve chronic diseases. Stress, or our mind’s manifestation of stress, can have many physical manifestations. So focusing on trying to incorporate healthy food choices, exercise and good sleep habits can improve our daily lives and likely help us to not be as sick as often.
There is so much information available online, in magazines and on television that it can feel overwhelming—even to those of us who work in the medical field! I think it is best to keep it basic: exercise, get enough sleep, eat whole foods not in a package. And give yourself grace to indulge every so often.
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.
Incorporating walking into your daily life can have a huge impact long term. It is hard to find enough time in the day for dedicated exercise for many people, but taking the stairs or parking farther away and even going for a short walk after dinner can become a part of a routine and soon become something you do automatically and perhaps even enjoy.
I pride myself on setting up a no-pressure office environment so patients do not feel compelled to do or try something that they are not completely decided upon yet. My job is to listen empathetically to the issues bothering the patient and offer what treatments are available, along with my recommendation and any side effects/recovery time. That way the patient can make an informed decision with which they feel 100% comfortable and confident.
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.
• LazerLift
• Cosmetic injectables
• Laser services
• Skin care
• Cosmetic facial surgeries
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.
403 West Adams Blvd., Los Angeles | 213-742-1000 | luskinoic.org | @luskinoic
True wellness means caring holistically for the patient and seeing them as more than their injury. We are committed to providing every patient, regardless of background, the same high standard of care given to our collegiate and professional athletes. This includes access to highquality physical therapy, cutting-edge surgical techniques and comprehensive physician evaluations. As a board-certified family and sports medicine physician, I can evaluate a musculoskeletal injury while also recognizing when an underlying medical condition warrants further workup. This comprehensive approach helps patients get back to what they love, whether that is competing at an elite level or returning to daily activities pain-free.
Since I first started seeing pediatric patients, our practice has become much busier! With that volume comes more knowledge and expertise—not only for managing common diagnoses but also more complex and rare conditions. Those cases often require more difficult conversations, which I have become more comfortable having as my practice grows. I do my best to approach patients with compassion and empathy, recognizing how much impact my words carry. Deciding to hold a young athlete out of sport is never a decision I take lightly, but when I make it, I know it is in the best interest of the young person in front of me.
Programs like FIFA 11+ reduce soccerrelated injuries in youth athletes, and we routinely reference them when counseling patients. LuskinOIC’s long-standing partnership with Students Run LA has allowed us to examine running-related injuries among adolescent marathoners and design a strength-training program
specific to them—ultimately providing evidence-based recommendations to reduce injuries. In our Sports Medicine Clinic, we have an athletic trainer who teaches home exercise programs, communicates with physical therapists and high school athletic trainers, and ensures athletes return to sport safely. This coordinated, teambased approach puts the patient and their recovery at the forefront.
Having in-house MRI imaging and a renovated Sports Medicine Center will be a game-changer. The process of obtaining images and receiving a radiology report will be streamlined, reducing stress for families who may already feel overwhelmed. Our physician will see high-quality scans as soon as they are completed, allowing us to quickly direct patients to surgical colleagues when needed or get them into physical therapy sooner when a scan is reassuring.
The most difficult part of my work is delivering hard news. Telling someone they have torn their ACL or need surgery will never become easier. I work every day to approach that conversation with the same care I would give a family member. The most rewarding part is seeing the joy when someone is cleared to return to their sport. They have put in countless hours of rehabilitation, and getting to say, “You can
• Pediatric orthopedics
• Urgent Care Center
• Sports medicine
• Specialty care
• Orthopedic rehabilitation
go back to soccer” and witnessing that immediate excitement never gets old.
Every time I see a patient, I ask what they do for physical activity and what they want to get back to. Understanding what matters to them helps build trust, and if we build that trust early, they will feel comfortable returning with new concerns. How I explain an injury also varies by age. For many adolescents, being an athlete is a defining part of their identity, and losing that due to injury carries a real mental and emotional toll. I approach those conversations with empathy. A lot of youth drop out of sports around age 12, and if I can keep kids engaged in physical activity, I know it will have a lasting positive impact on their overall health and well-being.
1221 Highland Ave., Manhattan Beach | 310-545-4561 | 1815 Via El Prado, Suite 200, Redondo Beach | 310-316-4477 fulbrightdental.com | @fulbrightdental
Wellness is thriving and doing what you love without health or confidence holding you back. Oral health can reduce systemic disease risk, extend your lifespan and significantly improve your quality of life. Our practice recognizes that loving your smile impacts confidence and how you carry yourself, which is very much part of wellness too. Helping patients feel good and smile brightly is what we dedicate ourselves to every single day.
Witnessing true transformation—in health, cosmetic results and even in the relationship people have with the dentist—is truly rewarding. Recently a patient returned to share how much better he felt after treatment, with improved blood pressure and inflammatory markers. It was a true testament to the connection between oral and overall health.
Seeing a patient’s first smile after cosmetic work is equally rewarding. Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you, and not being able to smile proudly affects both confidence and health. Research shows that smiling benefits your physical and mental health. We also prioritize comfort at every step—through special amenities and
compassionate care—and have seen even the most phobic patients transform their relationship with the dentist.
Our industry is due for a rethink. Too many practices offer “repair care” rather than true health care, and it’s impacting patient wellness. If your doctor isn’t educating you and looking beyond what needs fixing, that’s a red flag. We spend two hours with every new patient because their overall health depends on it.
Cosmetic care also shouldn’t be treated in a silo. A beautiful smile requires a healthy foundation. We look at the big picture while delivering excellent aesthetic results, and we want to make sure you get the most out of that investment.
Proactive oral care makes a huge impact— it really is that simple. Staying on top of cleanings, flossing and working with a doctor who connects your oral health to your overall wellness and gets ahead of things, versus waiting to react and fix, can have a tremendous impact on your longevity and quality of life. What most people don’t know is that gum disease increases the risk of dementia, heart disease, stroke, certain cancers and so
• Porcelain veneers & Invisalign
• Comfort amenities & sedation
• Preventive & reconstructive care
• Sleep & airway dentistry
many other systemic conditions. Oral care is about so much more than just taking care of teeth.
We wish more people knew about the level of cosmetic care available right here in the South Bay. So many people think they have to drive to Beverly Hills or fly to New York, and that just isn’t true. Our doctors have trained with some of the best cosmetic dentists, and we partner with world-renowned master ceramist Paulo Battistella of Code White Boutique Lab to create porcelain veneers that bring each patient’s vision to life. The work is true artistry, and we’re very proud of it.
Helping our fellow South Bay residents live healthier and happier is incredibly rewarding. All the Fulbright kids have gone through the Hermosa Beach school system, with their oldest now at Mira Costa. Dr. Faist’s wife, who leads our marketing, grew up here and attended American Martyrs School. It means so much to care for families with such personal ties, and to give back through their scrip program. We also support Indivisible Arts and The Butterfly Strong Foundation, among others. Partnering with Hi-Fi Espresso and joining the California Surf Club has also been such a bright spot for us. (Thanks to the California Surf Club for hosting our photo shoot!)
• Face, neck, mini, eyelid & brow lifts
• Laser face/neck peels
• Breast augmentation and lift
• Smartlipo, abdominoplasty
• Medical spa treatments
My office and OR team are skilled, caring and attentive. Their expertise and clear communication let me craft personalized surgical plans that honor each patient’s unique anatomy and goals. Together we create a warm, confident experience where patients feel supported, understood and excited about their results.
This is six weeks post-surgery of our patient’s eyelid lift and Tetra CO2 laser resurfacing of the face and neck. It was performed in-office under local anesthesia with minimal oral relaxants and pain meds.
A trend has been on the rise in patients on GLP-1 meds (Ozempic® and others). While transformative, they often lead to skin laxity and volume loss. This has expanded both my surgical and nonsurgical treatment strategies, allowing me to create highly personalized plans that restore balance, volume, contour and natural-looking results.
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Rendering of proposed structure.
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Written by JR Johnson
I was driving up 1st Street near Robinson Elementary when I saw an old station wagon coming my way with a longboard jammed all the way up to the front windshield. I tucked in between a couple of parked cars to make space for him to pass. The driver threw out a full-blown handout-the-window shaka in thanks. His enthusiasm made me smile. I lifted a couple of fingers off the steering wheel to recognize his gratitude.
It was a small moment, but it made me appreciate our South Bay streets in a new way. That simple wave represented something so much bigger.
When my great-grandparents moved to the South Bay in the early 1920s, the houses were smaller, the people were smaller and the cars were smaller. The narrow streets made sense. Today some folks see them as a flaw or an inconvenience. But I see them as a feature, not a bug.
When two cars meet, one must make space. Someone pulls over. Someone waves. That act of coordination, while brief, is a form of recognition. It says, “I see you.” It says, “Thank you.”
Each time this happens, our streets create an opportunity for connection. Slowing down, squeezing next to a parked car and waiting a few seconds so someone else
can get through. These moments make us more aware of each other. They turn driving into something shared rather than competitive.
The wave takes many forms. It’s the driver who slows early for a crosswalk and the pedestrian who nods in appreciation. It’s the cyclist who raises a hand when a car gives a buffer. It’s the mom with the stroller who acknowledges the driver who waited an extra second. Small gestures, repeated thousands of times, silently shape the tone of our community.
You can live in a perfectly planned suburb where wide streets allow you to pull into your garage without ever noticing a neighbor. You can live in a major city where getting around feels like a full-contact sport. But here in our little corner of California, we live in a place that forces us to share space. While we might lose convenience, we gain connection.
When we make space for each other, we wave. When we wave, we acknowledge one another. When we acknowledge one another, we strengthen our community.
The wave is a visible sign, a quiet ritual and a building block of the communities that make our South Bay such a special place. Keep on wavin’. ■
