City Launches Second Phase of Santa Monica Airport Conversion Project
Until Oct. 16,
Residents Are Encouraged to Participate by Visiting the Project’s Website
The City of Santa Monica has begun the second phase of its community engagement initiative aimed at transforming the Santa Monica Airport site into a public space, potentially centered on a park. This phase is part of a two-year, five-phase effort to involve residents in shaping the future of the 227-acre site, with the final decision expected in late 2025.
Following the first phase over the summer, which gathered feedback through a project website, surveys, and community events, the city received nearly 2,000 survey responses and 147 suggestions for future site use, according to a City post.
Phase 2 of the project, launched on
Mitchell’s
Sept. 18, is divided into two segments. In Phase 2A, city staff will work with the community to refine and prioritize suggestions. In Phase 2B, guiding principles will be developed, with a finalized version expected to be presented to the City Council in January 2025.
Until Oct. 16, residents are encouraged
to participate by visiting the project’s website, watching a virtual training session, and completing a survey to help prioritize the proposals. The city also invites community members to apply for micro-grants to host listening sessions.
Once a preferred scenario is selected by fall 2025, it will guide the
environmental review process mandated by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The site transformation is expected to begin after the airport ceases operations on Dec. 31, 2028. For more information, residents can email TheFutureofSMO@santamonica. gov.
Market Assumes New Ownership, Changes Name to “Bodega & Palms”
Venetians Phil and Kaila Neuville Look
Forward
to Retaining the Charm of the Local Neighborhood Bodega in the Heart of East Venice
By Nick Antonicello
For the New York Bodega culture and California lifestyle will continue as Phil and Kaila Neuville will assume the operation of Mitchell’s with a new name, Bodega & Palms! The traditional Bodega is at the center for gathering and grocery within New York Neighborhoods.
Not only do kids come to their local
Bodega for ice cream, but they also come to spend time with their friends.
The owners know all the customers by name, along with their orders. Local patrons leave their kids at the Bodega while they run errands. Residents hang around and gossip about current events.
This Bodega has the distinct advantage of being uniquely located in the middle of the lovely East Venice neighborhood of Southern California. We can source product all year from farmers markets, due to superior weather to New York. The sidewalk can be used year-round and these are aspects that are unique to our area.
Not many places can provide an “openair” concept that will be utilized all year. But the place is also slower and more laid back than the hustle and bustle of New York. So, this is where the intersection of the Bodega culture and Palms lifestyle occurs. At the actual intersection of Bodega and Palms.
Cont. on page 12
Coming Soon: Saint Monica Prep Open House Oct. 13
An open house for Saint Monica Preparatory, a co-ed Catholic college preparatory school, is coming soon. The school is inviting potential parents and students to tour its Santa Monica campus, meet teachers and coaches, and explore classrooms and facilities.
For transitional kindergarten to 12th grade, Saint Monica Prep boasts strong programming including experiential learning, league champion athletic programs and a close-knit community where students are challenged by rigorous academic standards anchored in character and spiritual formation.
In its almost 100-year history, SMPREP continues to evolve and prides itself in offering a dynamic, cohesive and comprehensive learning environment where students are known, seen, challenged and nurtured.
“For parents and students who are thinking about transitioning to Saint Monica Prep, this is an excellent opportunity to see our offerings and meet some of our current students and families,” said Kaitlen Murphy, director of Marketing Communications at the school. “It’s also great for current students to learn more about continuing at SMPREP for middle and high school, including the Core Prep program.”
Student presidential ambassadors will lead the open house tours, sharing their own experiences with the school’s impressive STEM, arts and humanities programs, including American Sign Language, Japanese and Spanish languages, as well as athletics, counseling services and experiential learning opportunities.
“SMPREP is excited to announce its new Korean exchange program this year, in addition to the Japanese exchange program, and other programs throughout the year for experiential learning. From international trips for Upper School students to domestic travel for middle school students, college tours, museum and film tours, and more, SMPREP takes
learning outside the classroom,” Murphy said.
Online RSVP forms found on SaintMonicaPrep.org are encouraged but not required. Join Saint Monica Prep, Sunday, October 13, from 1 to 4 p.m., at 1011 7th Street, Santa Monica, California, 90403.
Firefighters Battle Blaze at Vacant Sawtelle Commercial Building on Bundy Drive
No Injuries Reported as Crews Work to Extinguish Stubborn Flames
Los Angeles firefighters are battling a fire at a vacant two-story commercial building at 2050 S. Bundy Drive, the site of previous fires. The fire was first reported at 6:15 a.m. via a Los Angeles Fire Department alert.
The 53,500-square-foot structure has been heavily damaged by the blaze, which began early Monday morning. Fire crews are conducting defensive operations, focusing on extinguishing deep-seated pockets of fire within the building. No injuries have been reported.
Authorities have closed Bundy Drive between Olympic Boulevard and LaGrange Avenue. Travelers are advised to expect delays and use alternate routes as the area remains closed for safety while firefighting efforts continue.
The latest update from the LAFD was
issued at 6:15 p.m. and said, “Defensive firefighting efforts will systematically continue through the night to fully extinguish stubborn flames deep within the tons of smoldering debris created by the vacant and now heavily fire damaged 53,500 square foot two-story commercial building.
To assist in that effort, LAFD heavy mechanized equipment (i.e. bulldozers, excavators, etc.) is now at the scene to assist in strategic demolition and physical hazard abatement.”
“Though no injuries have been reported, and no escalating or off-site hazard identified, pursuant to protocol, an LAFD Hazardous Materials team and Department of Building & Safety Inspector have assessed the location, and environmental officials have been notified of the firefighting efforts and controlled demolition related to the unstable structure.
“Until LAFD operations are complete, all lanes of Bundy Drive between Olympic Boulevard and LaGrange Avenue will remain closed. Unknown ETO.”
Santa Monica Brew Works Celebrates
10 Years As City’s First And Only Craft Brewery (Est. 2014)
Join the festivities starting Friday, September 27 through Sunday, September 29.
Featuring Special Beer Releases, Commemorative Merchandise, Anniversary Specials, Giveaways, and more!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Santa Monica, CA – Santa Monica Brew Works (SMBW), the first and only locally owned craft brewery on LA’s Westside, is proud to celebrate its 10-year anniversary!
From Friday, September 27 through Sunday, September 29, SMBW invites the community to join in the festivities at their award-winning Tasting Room and Beer Garden, located at 1920 Colorado Avenue.
To commemorate this milestone, SMBW will offer 10% off all draft beer purchases throughout the weekend. Restaurant partner Emmy Squared Pizza
will match the 10% off discount for dinein orders. The brewery will also feature a pair of exclusive, limited-edition anniversary beer releases: Hang 10 Hazy IPA and Magic Hour IPA. Both will be available on draft and in 4-packs (16 oz cans) to-go. Starting Saturday 9/28, buy a pint of either anniversary IPA and ‘keep-the-glass’ as a commemorative a keepsake (while supplies last). Attendees can also purchase NEW limited-edition anniversary merchandise and ‘shop the vault’ for throwback items at clearance prices. Patrons can expect more fun activities happening on-site and possibly even a surprise or two!
Anniversary Beer Releases: Hang 10, Hazy IPA (7.0% ABV) Dive into a wave of righteous flavor! Hang 10 Hazy IPA is crafted with a killer blend of hyper-lush hops. Juicy swells of tropical aromas collide with a succulent surge of pineapple, passionfruit, and vibrant tangerine. It’s paradise in a pint.
Magic Hour, Santa Monica-Style IPA (7.0% ABV) Featuring Cashmere, Citra, and Wakatu hops, this snappy IPA offers a bright burst of citrus and sweet fruit flavors, balanced by floral and herbal
notes. Soft on the palate yet pleasantly assertive, this brew is a harmonious hybrid that bridges style characteristics form both West Cost and New England style IPAs.
To complement the anniversary beers, Emmy Squared Pizza—the only West Coast location of the Brooklyn-born favorite—will offer a special Californiainspired BBQ Chicken Pizza, perfectly pairing with SMBW’s “Beach Brewed” vibes.
“We couldn’t have reached this milestone without the incredible support of our community,” said Scott Francis, SMBW Co-Founder, President & CEO. “This anniversary isn’t just about celebrating our brewery, but also the amazing people who’ve been part of our story. We can’t wait to raise a glass with everyone who’s made these last 10 years so special.”
Since opening in 2014, Santa Monica Brew Works has become a cornerstone of LA’s burgeoning craft beer scene, offering world-class hospitality and innovative brews that reflect the spirit of their coastal hometown. Over the past decade they’ve received many accolades, including being
voted back-to-back “Best Local Craft Brewery” in Los Angeles Times ‘Best of the Southland’ contest, 2022 & 2023 (Region: Westside, Downtown, East Los Angeles).
Mark your calendars for a weekend full of fresh beer, good vibes, and celebration. A toast to a 10-years of great memories—and many more to come! For more information and updates follow @santamonicabrewworks on Facebook and Instagram.
Contact Information: Johnny Wardell [SMBW Marketing Director] Email: johnny@santamonicabrewworks. com
Public Safety and Traffic Enforcement Can Help Save Lives and Revitalize Santa Monica’s Economy
SMa.r.t.
Santa Monica Architects for a Responsible Tomorrow
We wholeheartedly endorse the candidates below for Santa Monica City Council. Their leading campaign platform is for increased safety in Santa Monica.
Phil Brock, Mayor, and Council Member
Dr. Vivian A. Roknian
Oscar de la Torre, Council Member
John Putnam Traffic Safety and Enforcement: An Overlooked Concern
While much of the public safety conversation has focused on crime, traffic safety has become a pressing issue in Santa Monica. Busy streets, speeding, reckless driving, and increasing pedestrian, scooter, and cyclist accidents have all contributed to an increased sense of unease on the roads.
Improving traffic safety is crucial for several reasons. First, safer roads directly impact the well-being of residents, tourists, and commuters. Pedestrian—and cyclistfriendly infrastructure, along with increased and more effective enforcement of traffic
laws, can significantly reduce the number of accidents and fatalities. Tourists will likely feel safer and more inclined to explore the city if they know traffic regulations are strictly enforced and that walking or biking is a safe option.
Increased Revenue from Traffic Fines for Public Safety.
Strict and aggressive enforcement of speeding, illegal parking, illegal turns, distracted driving, and other traffic violations increases road safety. It provides an opportunity to impose penalties on those who break the law. Santa Monica has the authority to increase the penalty amounts for traffic violations, and they should implement that immediately.
The increased enforcement would also provide the city with much-needed additional revenue. This could be reinvested into improving public safety efforts, hiring additional police officers, enhancing traffic infrastructure, or launching public safety initiatives and campaigns. Moreover, these fines could help offset the costs of infrastructure upgrades, contributing to long-term safety and economic stability improvements. Social media marketing campaigns are needed to attract more tourists and help offset recent worldwide negative
press about crime and safety in Santa Monica.
A safe city that consistently enforces traffic laws is integral to the foundation for better and well-managed growth. It is foolish to continue densifying Santa Monica with large development projects without addressing this critical issue.
Santa Monica has recently revised speed limits on several streets to enhance Traffic Safety. The City Council unanimously approved these changes, which will lower speed limits on 29 roads, covering a total of 31 miles, and raise the limit on one short segment. The adjustments are part of the city’s Vision Zero initiative, aimed at eliminating fatal and severe injury crashes by creating safer conditions for all road users.
The new speed limits, to be implemented in October, include reductions on major thoroughfares such as Lincoln Boulevard, Ocean Park Boulevard, and Pico Boulevard. These changes are based on a speed survey conducted earlier this year to ensure the limits are appropriate and legally defensible.
While the revised speed limits are a positive step towards safer streets in Santa Monica, their success will largely depend on the
SMPD’s ability to enforce them. Increased police presence and targeted enforcement operations will be essential to reducing traffic-related injuries and fatalities. It will not be possible to achieve the desired safety outcomes without increased enforcement, as much more than simply lowering speed limits will be required.
Santa Monica residents are concerned about the level of traffic enforcement. Government data indicates that traffic stops have decreased in recent years, even as traffic incidents have risen. Active and consistent enforcement is crucial to ensure compliance with the new speed limits and enhance pedestrian, bicycle, and road safety.
Santa Monica Should Implement the Following:
1. Stronger Police Presence in HighTraffic Areas: Increasing the presence of law enforcement in critical areas such as the Santa Monica Pier, downtown, and along major traffic corridors can deter crime and encourage safer driving habits. Patrol officers can help address crime and traffic violations in these high-traffic zones, ensuring that tourists and residents always feel secure.
2. Enhanced Traffic Enforcement: Implementing stricter traffic enforcement— through speed cameras, red-light cameras, and an increase in traffic citations—would deter reckless driving. By addressing common issues like speeding, illegal U-turns, and failing to yield to pedestrians, the city can prevent dangerous collisions and create a safer environment for all road users.
3. Increased investment in Pedestrian and Cyclist Infrastructure: To further support traffic safety, Santa Monica has invested monies recently but should invest even more in improving pedestrian walkways, crosswalks, and bicycle lanes. Expanded sidewalks, protected bike lanes, and larger and clearer signage in specific locations would reduce accidents and encourage ecofriendly forms of transportation. The safer and more accessible the city feels, the more likely people are to explore on foot or bike, which benefits local businesses and reduces congestion.
4. Community Education and Awareness Campaigns: To promote both crime and traffic safety, Santa Monica could invest in public education campaigns aimed at residents, tourists, and commuters. These campaigns could highlight the importance of traffic safety laws, offer tips for avoiding crime, and emphasize the city’s commitment to safety. By fostering a culture of safety awareness, Santa Monica would encourage responsible behavior from everyone—drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike.
Building a Safer, More Prosperous Santa Monica If Santa Monica is to remain a top tourist destination and a desirable place to live and conduct business, prioritizing safety must
become the city's primary focus. Addressing rising crime rates and improving traffic safety is essential for protecting residents and visitors and preserving the city’s economic future. Businesses can only thrive if locals and tourists feel safe in their surroundings, whether shopping, dining, or walking around town.
Improving traffic safety and enforcing traffic laws are integral to this larger public safety strategy. The city can take a multipronged approach that protects lives and strengthens its economic foundation by reducing accidents, increasing enforcement, and using fines to generate revenue. With strategic investments in policing, infrastructure, and public awareness, Santa Monica can ensure that safety remains a priority—allowing its community and economy to flourish again.
To summarize, a safer Santa Monica means more residents staying in the city, renting and purchasing residences, and supporting local businesses. More tourists will visit here with positive experiences, and more businesses will succeed and grow. The path to a brighter future begins with making public and traffic safety a non-negotiable priority, ensuring that the town remains a thriving coastal gem for our enjoyment and future generations.
Michael Jolly for SMa.r.t.
Santa Monica Architects for a Responsible Tomorrow
Samuel Tolkin, Architect & Planning Commissioner; Thane Roberts, Architect; Mario Fonda-Bonardi AIA, Architect; Robert H. Taylor AIA, Architect; Dan Jansenson, Architect; Michael Jolly, AIR CRE; Marie Standing, Jack Hillbrand AIA, Architect
1:00-4:00 p.m.
‘A Must-See’: Light in the Piazza Comes to Broad Stage for One Night Musical
By Susan Payne
An intimate story of contemporary and timeless romance produced by the Musical Theatre Guild is coming to the Broad Stage in Santa Monica for a one-night only, semistaged reading at the end of September, launching the first of many performances for the guild’s 2024-2025 season.
“The Light in the Piazza” is a Tonyaward winning lush, sophisticated and classical musical about a mother and daughter discovering their true selves while visiting Florence, inspired by the 1962 romantic comedy film and novel by Elizabeth Spencer.
While sightseeing in Florence, daughter Clara Johnson (Valerie Larsen) loses her hat in a sudden wind gust. As if guided by an unseen hand, the hat lands at the feet of Fabrizio Naccarelli (Gabriel Navarro), a handsome Florentine, who returns it to Clara. This begins The Light in the Piazza, a story of Clara and Fabrizio falling in love. However, with love, comes unforeseen complications.
“Certain problems ensue, and we learn more about those difficulties and the intimacies of the families. It’s a very moving story that’s told quite well. One of the great things about this score is that although it’s very modern in its way, it also harkens back to a time when Broadway
melodies were soaring — like Richard Rodgers, or Leonard Bernstein writing in West Side Story,” said Brad Ellis, the director of music for The Light in the Piazza.
As this one-night performance is set for the end of September, Ellis, who played the quiet teacher/piano accompanist in the Fox television show “Glee,” encourages all to attend for the musical’s complexity, unpredictability and romantic draw sung by a cast of Musical Theatre Guild members with a wealth of expertise.
“This is your chance to see an absolutely expert cast, performing a musically rich and unique storyline. It doesn’t follow traditional romantic expectations. Because of the complexity of the situation, which I can’t reveal, you’re not sure exactly what it is you want to have happen. When you finally understand what should happen, that brings us to tremendous conclusion,” Ellis said.
Ten Musical Theatre Guild members are cast for this performance on Sept. 29: Margaret Johnson (Kim Huber); Clara Johnson (Valerie Larsen); Fabrizio Naccarelli (Gabriel Navarro); Franca Naccarelli (Tal Fox); Guiseppe Naccarelli (Will Collyer); and Signor Naccarelli (Robert Yacko); Signora Naccarelli (Eydie Alyson) and Roy Johnson (Brent Shindele). Music and lyrics are by Adam Guettel.
“This show is beautiful and it’s famously complex to put together. What’s terrific about Musical Theatre Guild is the depth of experience of these Broadway performers who really can dig into this material and get it right, even for one night,” Ellis added. “For musical theatre fans, and for those who aren’t the deepest musical theatre fans, it’s a must-see.”
Musical Theatre Guild comprises musical theatre artists in the Los Angeles area that produce staged concert readings
of Broadway’s forgotten gems and undiscovered treasures. Members represent over 60 Broadway shows, 79 Broadway National Tours, countless regional products, cast recordings and more.
Get your tickets to “The Light in the Piazza” on Sept. 29 at 7 p.m. at the Santa Monica College Performing Arts Center, Eli and Edythe Broad Stage (1310 11th Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401) here: musicaltheatreguild.com/show/the-lightin-the-piazza.
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A Plus Tree LLC: Leading the Way in Professional Tree Care for Homes and Businesses
A Plus Tree is a tree care company committed to maintaining the safety, beauty, and health of trees, all with a winning client experience. Founded in 2001 by the late Jeremy Tibbets, A Plus Tree has grown to be a trusted name in the industry. Our team of certified arborists and crews brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to each project. We are dedicated to serving our clients with love and respect, taking care of our urban forests, and preserving our precious environment.
The A Plus Tree team partners with and serves residential, apartment, HOA, commercial, and retail properties. Our expert services include tree pruning and trimming, tree removals and planting, tree health care, wildfire prevention, and arborist consultation. Professional tree care improves tree health and safety, enhances property value and curb appeal, and reduces tree risks and liabilities. To assist clients with all their tree care needs, we offer both routine maintenance and emergency response services.
All our practices strictly adhere to standards of tree care as set by the International Society of Arboriculture and the Tree Care Industry Association. We are
fully licensed, insured, and certified, so rest assured that we provide quality service that comply with safety regulations. With over 20 years of experience, we tailor our services to match our clients’ needs while ensuring the health and safety of every tree we touch.
At A Plus Tree, our approach goes beyond mere tree trimming and removal. With a firm belief in innovation, we have pioneered the industry by creating our own cutting-edge technology, ArborPlus. A tree inventory and management software, ArborPlus allows our clients to access their properties’ detailed tree inventories, view and compare proposals, and check for job status - all from their fingertips. Continuously updated and improved, ArborPlus streamlines the tree management process and contributes to healthier, more sustainable urban environments.
Beyond providing professional tree care, A Plus Tree is also dedicated to community engagement and sustainability. We participate in local outreach and tree planting programs to educate the public on tree care and create greener, safer communities. Our commitment extends to reducing our carbon footprint through
eco-friendly practices like recycling urban wood into handcrafted furniture, mulch, and biochar. Sustainability is central to all aspects of our operations so we can work towards a better tomorrow for our urban forests.
Choosing A Plus Tree means choosing a partner who prioritizes your needs and values the health of your trees and the safety of your property. With a reputation
for exceptional service and a team that genuinely cares, we are dedicated to making tree care accessible and reliable for all. Whether you need emergency services or multi-year tree management, you can trust A Plus Tree to get the job done right. For more information or to schedule a complimentary assessment, visit us at www.aplustree.com.
Venice Shorts: Jeffrey Solomon Memorial Bench Back at the Boardwalk
Tribute to the Late Venetian Reinstalled at Ocean Front Walk
By Nick Antonicello
In cooperation with the Los Angeles Recreation and Parks Department and the Los Angeles Parks Foundation, a bench & plaque memorializing longtime Venetian Jeffrey Solomon has been reinstalled.
A dedication that was held in June saw the bench temporarily removed due to administrative issues, but is now back at the beach close to the Venice/Santa Monica border and across from the Adda & Paul Safran senior housing facility.
Private funding paid for the bench through the efforts of Jeffrey’s wife and widow, Fran Solomon who is a longtime advocate of Venice Beach and Oceanfront Walk.’
She was recently appointed as a member of
the Venice Neighborhood Council.
An active member of the Venice Chamber of Commerce, Solomon owned a tour guide business and was a regular at the beach where he resided with his wife for decades.
Born in Westchester in 1943, Solomon attended Westchester High School and Upland College on a basketball scholarship.
In 1963, having been seen by a local scout, he was summoned by the Lakers coach Freddy Schaus to the LA Sports Arena, the Lakers home facility, for a private tryout.
Solomon passed earlier this year.
NBA Legend Lists Marina del Rey Home For Nearly $3M The
Home Includes Custom Features Suited to Accommodate His
7’2” Frame, Such as Enlarged Doorways
The former residence of NBA legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has been listed for sale at $2.995 million. Located in Marina del Rey’s exclusive gated enclave, the 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home sits across from the RitzCarlton and the California Yacht Club.
Abdul-Jabbar, known for his time with the Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Lakers during his 20-year NBA career, is a six-time champion and widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time.
Abdul-Jabbar owned the property from 2011 to 2021, and the home includes custom features suited to accommodate his 7’2” frame, such as enlarged doorways and other modifications. The spacious property spans 3,586 square feet and is ideal for entertaining,
with an open floor plan, a gourmet kitchen, and a family room that features a fireplace.
The second floor boasts a primary suite with a spa-like bathroom, a private balcony with marina views, and a fireplace. The home also features a bonus loft area on the third level, perfect for an office or workout space, with additional views of the Ritz-Carlton and Marina.
Other amenities include a two-car garage, parking for up to four additional cars, a whole-house water filtration system, and a monitored security system.
I spoke with the new owner Phil Neuville, a Venice resident and below is our conversation:
Mitchell’s was the quintessential local neighborhood market. Why did you purchase the business and what changes can we expect? Will it remain Mitchell’s? The dream of running something like this began back in 2019 (we lived in Chicago at this point) when we visited Cape Town, where I proposed to my wife. There was a cool little market/café called “Nourish’d” that inspired the idea of running something like Mitchell’s. Fast forward to 2021, my wife and I bought our home on Nowita Place, and have walked by Mitchell’s almost every day. We have always envisioned owning it and envisioned how awesome it could be for the neighborhood. When Mr. Woo tragically passed away, I asked around for weeks to try and get in touch with his wife Veronica to see if they needed someone to take over the lease. I finally got a hold of her and her daughter, but many parties had already reached out to them. I built trust with them through many calls and eventually they were sold on our vision and sold us the assets of the business. We will be changing the name of the market to Bodega & Palms. We will also have a mural drawn of Mr. Woo and the original Mitchell’s and hang it in the new market. We will continue to operate this market as a local neighborhood bodega but will be adding coffee, matcha, mesquite coffee (decaf alternative) and soft serve ice cream. We will also be featuring local vendors by serving prepared foods such
as focaccia sandwiches and breakfast burritos. There will also be local, unique beer and wine offerings. Our SKU assortment will be very focused and we will be able to give fulsome honest answers about any vendor/product that we offer. We will focus on bringing the best taste, ingredients and price point to the neighborhood. We also are cognizant of isolating longtime residents who may want products that have been offered at Mitchell’s for many years. We will have a section of the store that will be purely based on customer feedback and surveys to ensure that no one is forgotten!
We understand you are currently closed. What is the timeline for the Grand ReOpening?
We are currently in escrow, awaiting the transfer of the beer and wine license. This is expected to be completed by October 18th. At this point we will begin a minor facelift of the market. Nothing major, just cleaning it up and shuffling some stuff around inside. We expect to be open after Thanksgiving.
How does a local venue like Mitchell’s survive in Venice with all the surrounding gentrification?
I think that through living in the neighborhood, we have a good feel for what people want. At the end of the day, we think that by offering high quality goods at a price point that is affordable, you will always win with that formula. We also believe in fostering and cultivating local brands. We will feature many of them. We will be very focused on having no fees, tipping, or hidden surcharges. We think that this
practice has gotten out of control. Old and new residents have expressed fatigue with that practice.
Will you offer home delivery and how will you reach out to locals?
We will be offering free delivery for anyone within approximately a mile of the market. We have already begun outreach to locals, which is easy because we live here. We will continue to do stuff through social media, flyers and word of mouth. I believe that word of mouth marketing is the most important and organic way to spread the news. This is generally done by going above and beyond for customers, whether it be through the products or the service. People are far more likely to spread the word if you treat them right. They say change is the only constant in
life. How will the new Bodega & Palms adapt with an ever changing Venice? Adapt or die is a phrase to live by. I always believe that new facts must render new solutions. My wife and I plan to run this store ourselves. I believe by doing this you can be in touch with the customer and grow the brand the right way. This is a self- funded business with zero outside capital. The only stakeholders are ourselves and our customers. We answer to no one, but the customer, and we think that is what will set us apart.
Nick Antonicello is a thirty-one-year resident of the neighborhood and covers all things, Venice. Have a take or a tip? Contact him via email at nantoni@ mindspring.com
Kickstart Your Summer with Creativity at the Brewery Artwalk Explore Open Studios on October 5th and 6th
If you’re looking for something fun and different to start off your Fall, the Brewery Artwalk is holding its Fall Artwalk on October 5th and 6th, with two days of open studios on Main Street in Lincoln Heights, just east of the LA River.
You’ll find nearly every discipline represented here, and the pleasure of meeting the artist in their studio is a wonderful way to fall in love with original art. Start your collection with a connection to the person who made it, and you will have a story to go with the artwork that adds layers of meaning to the experience and your memories of your visit.
This event is for everyone! From families to first time buyers, collectors to curators, experienced art denizens to young kids experiencing the artworld for the first time.
A venerable institution, the Brewery
Artwalk is in its 42nd year of welcoming the public to this twice-yearly event. It is a truly unique opportunity to explore the campus. The Brewery Art Colony began in 1903 as the Edison Electric Steam Power Plant. The building was designed by John Parkinson, who also designed the Bullocks Wilshire Building, Union station, and was one of several architects responsible for City Hall. The building is sometimes called The Bingo building (it used to say BINGO on the smokestack. The "B" was kept and used to begin the word "Brewery." The plant was the first to use the new, efficient steam turbine technology and was the third plant in Los Angeles and by far the most modern at that time. The Brewery Art Colony is so called because it includes the old Eastside and Pabst Blue Ribbon breweries - now home to hundreds of artists and creatives, many of whom will be opening their studios during the weekend.
Get a jump on starting your art collection, or add to it with new work, by visiting the Brewery Artwalk. It’s a free event, and is sure to be a great day of exploring and seeing!
There will be a beer garden in the middle of the complex with a menu of easy to eat on-the-go food, plus an array of food trucks on Avenue 21.
Free parking is available at the UPS facility on Moulton Avenue. Open Saturday and Sunday, October 5th & 6th, from 11am to 6pm.
1920 N Main Street, LA 90031
Message line: (323) 638-9382 www.breweryartwalk.com info@ breweryartwalk.com
The venture is the creation of Nick Monica, the owner of Gnarwhal Coffee, and his wife, Dakota
A new restaurant, Companion, has officially opened its doors in Venice.
The venture is the creation of Nick Monica, the owner of Gnarwhal Coffee, and his wife, Dakota. The restaurant’s concept centers around the Latin origin of “companion” — com panis, meaning “with bread” — symbolizing a place for gathering over food and drink, according to LA Eater.
During the day, Companion will serve coffee, tea, and pastries, with offerings such as cereal milk matcha and affogato made with homemade ice cream. Pastries, provided by Ed Cornell and the Café Tropical team, include pecan sticky buns and maritozzi, with gluten-free and vegan options forthcoming. The daytime menu also features sandwiches
“Companion”, New Restaurant with ItalianInspired Menu, Opens in Venice Cleanup Efforts Underway After Del Rey
Yacht
filled with porchetta, chicken Parmesan, and Bolognese sauce, according to LA Eater.
In the evening, chef Jack Goode, previously of Quarter Sheets and Jac’s on Bond, will present an Italian-inspired menu using California produce. Diners can expect pizzas from a Neapolitan-New York-New Haven hybrid dough, featuring toppings like spicy sausage and clams with garlic cream sauce.
The menu will also include a unique Caesar salad made with Romano beans, rigatoni Bolognese, and wagyu New York Strip. Companion’s wine list emphasizes small Italian producers who focus on regenerative agriculture, as well as local wines.
The restaurant’s interior, designed by Venice resident Glen Bell of Studio Dex, is intended to feel like a cozy living room, as reported by Eater. The space is highlighted by vintage furniture and a high-fidelity sound system, with vinyl records spinning during dinner service.
Companion is located at 1700 Lincoln Boulevard, Venice, CA, and will operate from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. for coffee and pastries, with dinner service from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.
Fire and Fuel Spill
The Oiled Wildlife Care Network Has Been Activated, and an Oiled Hummingbird Was Recovered
Cleanup operations are in full swing following the diesel fuel spill caused by the fire and sinking of a 105-foot luxury yacht, The Admiral, in Marina del Rey.
The Unified Command, led by the U.S. Coast Guard, is coordinating efforts to recover the estimated 4,000 gallons of diesel fuel that leaked into the water when the yacht caught fire and sank on Wednesday night.
According to the U.S. Coast Guard,
containment measures have been effective, and no further fuel sheening has been observed. “Coast Guard crews, along with teams from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and Clean Harbors, have been working to recover the diesel fuel and maintain constant observation of the source,” said Capt. Stacey Crecy, Federal On-Scene Coordinator for the Coast Guard.
While no sensitive environmental sites have been affected, air monitoring is ongoing, and officials report no immediate threats to public health.
The Oiled Wildlife Care Network has been activated, and an oiled hummingbird was recovered and transported for care. Residents are advised to avoid capturing wildlife and to report sightings to the designated hotline.
The fire, which occurred at around 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, caused a dramatic scene, with flames and explosions resulting from ammunition and fireworks stored onboard. The two passengers aboard escaped without injury, but the yacht eventually sank, leading to concerns over environmental hazards.
September 29th at
Eclipse School Helps Children Prepare for Kindergarten
By Susan Payne
Transitional Kindergarten works.
For Juliya Spiegel, mother to a now five-year-old kindergartener, a decision was on the table one year ago to enroll her son into Eclipse School, a TK program in the Pacific Palisades.
After touring the school and learning more about the program, Spiegel felt the program was right for her son and decided it was a yes.
Because it’s a smaller, more intimate setting, her son — like the other students — was encouraged to find commonalities and build a bond with each of the students through activities and play. While developing social emotional and foundational skills in his last year of preschool, Spiegel’s son gained confidence in making new friends and the ability to read before kindergarten started.
“It was the best parenting decision we could have made. His confidence was soaring on his first day of kindergarten this year,” Spiegel said.
With over 50 years of combined
teaching experience, Eclipse founders Beth Reilly and Shea Morris lead the program, combining foundational skills and developmental learning with an emphasis on language and literacy.
Eclipse’s unique curriculum prepares children socially, emotionally and academically to ensure they succeed in any kindergarten — progressive, traditional or rigorous academic.
“Social emotional growth is one of Eclipse’s focuses and that’s what gave my son confidence. They (Reilly and Morris) have been lifechanging teachers and humans and I’m so grateful that I listened to my gut,” Spiegel said.
After spending over 14 years as friends and colleagues, many conversations about child development, teaching philosophies and collaboration propelled the founders to start Eclipse. What began as a summer camp is now a school in its third year, preparing each child the strongest foundations for their academic journey.
Reilly and Morris believe wholeheartedly that opportunities for play and social emotional growth with
exposure to foundational skills set young students up for success in kindergarten and beyond.
“If they’re developmentally ready then they will grasp those skills sooner. If they are not quite ready, the multitude of opportunities to be exposed to the skill will give them familiarity to the skill when they are ready in kindergarten,” Morris said.
Eclipse’s literacy program introduces children to sounds and letters throughout the transitional kindergarten year. By the end of the year, the students are putting sounds and letters together to create words while reading or writing.
For math, Eclipse exposes children to a variety of skills such as number recognition, counting, patterns and critical thinking in a fun and developmentally appropriate way. Diving deeper into science topics and art, Morris said this year, they take each letter of the alphabet and focus on an artist or art techniques.
“The letter C was connected to Eric Carle, the illustrator and we created colorful collages,” Morris said. “It’s
another way to be engaged while learning. Our job is to instill a love of learning in these children and to do that we have to have a fun and inviting environment.”
Now that TK has passed for Spiegel’s son, she reflects on the decision she made to transition him to Eclipse.
“Beth and Shea really delivered, they instilled a love of learning in Lev and confidence both inside the classroom and on the playground. Eclipse is a magical school that provided the perfect foundation for Lev’s school experience,” Spiegel said.
To learn more about the school and its founders, visit EclipseSchool.org. Eclipse School applications of interest can be found online.
Industrious Expands, Opens New Flexible Workspaces in LA
By Susan Payne
New and expanded Industrious offices are opening soon in Los Angeles.
Founded in 2012 by Jamie Hodari and Justin Stewart, the first Industrious office opened in Chicago. Now, with more than 120 locations in 50+ cities in the United States and abroad, the company has become the leading workplace provider for companies of all sizes and stages.
This fall and winter, Industrious is opening new and expanded office space in Century City, Santa Monica and West Hollywood. Offering flexible lease terms, coworking memberships, conference and meeting rooms, Industrious’ coworking, private offices and suites are perfect for professionals looking for thoughtfully designed and full service workspaces.
“We fill a void for professionals who desire the flexibility of being in the office when they want to and enjoy a great experience while they are here. As companies expand, shrink or change, we’re able to support that growth in both directions,” said Chloe Sosnowski, the general manager for Industrious Los Angeles.
Opening in October, Industrious in Century City is expanding to the building next to its current location because of its need for more space. This premier location in Watt Plaza puts your workplace in the heart of Century City and close to LA’s
luxe real estate, retail and entertainment.
In Santa Monica, Industrious is opening a new location on Wilshire Boulevard, slated to open this winter. Near the beach, this office space offers a range of flexible solutions including outdoor space, storage space, an open atrium lobby and more.
“We’ve had successful locations in Los Angeles for a long time, so we’re excited to open a new space for the first time in Santa Monica this winter. We don’t have a lot of options for flexible working spaces in Santa Monica, so we believe this is going to fill a gap for people don’t want to commute long distances for work” Sosnowski said.
An expansion of an Industrious workspace in West Hollywood, slated to open in the spring of 2025, shares a similar story to Century City’s growth, in
which more space was a necessity.
“We’ve been full in our West Hollywood location for a long time, so much so, that we’re expanding next door, and we’re so excited for the expansion,” Sosnowski said. “For these openings, we usually have a ribbon cutting ceremony and we’re locking in those dates now.”
At Industrious workspaces, common areas such as cafes, meeting rooms, lounges and wellness rooms are shared. Offices come fully furnished and move in-ready while suites, or upgraded offices, come with a dedicated reception area and conference rooms.
“We’re excited to be in Los Angeles in a city that’s supported us for so long. We’re looking forward to continuing our growth there, we’d love to have people and companies experience us,” Sosnowski
said.
The company offers monthly Access Memberships that allow people to work from the common areas every day, plus reserve a desk once a week. Virtual Memberships provide businesses with a professional mailing address at any location, exclusive member benefits and the Industrious’ full range of on-site services, amenities and spaces. Meeting spaces are available for teams up to 20 people available by the hour or the day. Day passes are also available ranging from $50-85 per day.
For more information, visit IndustriousOffice.com.
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Photo by Ed Gandara