The Argonaut Newspaper - December 8, 2022

CONTACT US (310) 574-7655 Letters, News, Tips & Event Listings: kkirk@timespublications.com

EDITORIAL

Executive Editor: Christina Fuoco-Karasinski christina@timespublications.com

Editor: Kamala Kirk (310) 574-7654 kkirk@timespublications.com

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BUSINESS

Associate Publisher: Rebecca Bermudez (310) 574-7655 rbermudez@timespublications.com

Blackouts in Marina del Rey

Editor:

We had another blackout at Mariners Village last night. My wife and I were enjoying her favorite holiday movie, "It's a Wonderful Life," for her birthday. Blackouts, as well as cable and internet issues, have increased in recent years following the new developments down the street. While I favor new construction projects, I do not favor them if they put a strain on the existing infrastructure. Why aren't the city and county planners doing their jobs? We certainly overpay them enough.

Forgive me for stating the obvious, but the infrastructure needs to be expanded be fore any new developments are approved and built, and those profiting off of them should pay for the additional infrastructure. I joke that the new Marriott could at least give a complimentary drink to the sur rounding residents for the issues mentioned above, as well as for the traffic delays and loss of our local wetlands. Alright, I'll confess...I'm not joking.

Cheers...and happy holidays!

William R. Hicks Marina del Rey

We Want to Hear from You!

Being in print is a lot more meaningful than grouching on Facebook. Send compliments, complaints and insights about local issues to kkirk@timespublications.com

Correction to ‘Update on My Brother Ryan’ in our Dec. 1, 2022 issue: "Twenty-six years ago, I was hospitalized for a severe manic episode."

The Argonaut regrets the error. The original story incorrectly misquoted the author on page 9 in saying that she was hospitalized six years ago. The author was hospitalized 26 years ago. In the 26 years since her own bout with mental illness, she credits early intervention and medicine for saving her life. Maeve McGrath has been a working animator and illustrator in Los Angeles for almost 30 years and happy mom to a lovely 7-year-old daughter.

46 orchestra student musicians from Samohi have been selected to participate in the highly selective California Orchestra Directors Association honors orchestra program planned for December.

COURTESY PHOTO

LA City Council Scandal Update

Warrants in investigation of audio leak

By Morgan Owen

Latest in the scandal regarding a leaked audio recording of former LA City Council President Nury Martinez making racially charged statements, the LAPD Major Crimes Division has served several search warrants as part of their investigation into the leaked recording.

Last month, LAPD Chief Michel Moore announced the LAPD opened a criminal investigation to determine if the person who leaked the audio recording obtained it illegally. Reports indicate that investiga tion will involve ascertaining the identity of the whistleblower.

The LAPD has not released the subjects identified in the investigation, but anonymous sources state one of the warrants aims to uncover the identity of the owner of the Reddit account that posted the leaked audio recording. More warrants can be expected as the investigation

Nury Martinez.

can face either misdemeanor or felony charges and, depending on the case, could face up to three years in state prison and a maximum fine of $2,500. Martinez and others involved in the conversation stated they were unaware they were being

recorded at that time. LAPD Chief Moore confirmed via broadcast that Martinez, Councilmembers de Leon, and Cedillo requested the LAPD launch an investigation. How ever, de Leon has since denied he was involved in that request.

At the time of the leak, the Federation of Labor attempted to convince the Los Angeles Times not to publish the leak, alleging the recordings were obtained illegally. The Los Angeles Times refused and later published the recording from the now-disabled Reddit account.

The conversation in question occurred on Federation of Labor property between LA County Federation of Labor President Ron Herrera, Martinez, de Leon, and Cedillo in Oct. 2021.

In the audio, Martinez com pared former Councilmember Mike Bonin’s son to a “little monkey,” and alleged Bonin treats his black son as an “accessory.” The conversation

includes several instances of profanity and further inflamma tory statements by Martinez about Oaxacan immigrants. The contents of the recording sparked widespread calls for all parties involved to resign immediately. Although Cedillo did not step down, the public voted not to re-elect him in the recent midterm elections. De Leon, who has announced his intention to remain in office, won’t be up for re-election until 2024. Former Councilmember Bonin elected not to run for re-election.

The statute of limitations for a crime of this nature is three years, meaning the LAPD has two years to identify the person who leaked the recording and if it was obtained illegally. It’s also still unknown how the recording was made and why the whistleblower elected to release the information at the time and in the manner they did.

COURTESY PHOTO

Supporting

Jewish Community

Westside Activists holds demonstration to protest antisemitism

By Kamala Kirk

Westside Activists recently hosted a demonstration on the corner of Sepulveda and La Tijera Boulevard to show support for the Jewish community and to protest antisemitism. Westside Activists are organizers of peaceful, family-friendly demonstrations for justice and equality, and get-out-the-vote campaigns in the LAX area of Los Angeles.

“We were small and almighty, and it’s always such a gift to witness a group coming together for a cause that matters,” said Ahmanise Sanati, event

organizer and co-founder of Westside Activists. “Although social media has its perks, there is something uniquely cathartic about being in community of others in times of tragedy and unrest. This demonstration was no different. Also, it’s so inspiring to see how many people care and felt compelled to join—and when passerby honk and wave, the energy shared and felt in the process is priceless.”

Westside Activists facebook.com/westsideactivists

Various signs were held by the Westside Activists while they demonstrated in support of the Jewish Community.

Bev Sanford speaks out for the Jewish community with Westside Activists.

Westside Activist co-founder Ahmanise Sanati leads the chants while demonstrating for the Jewish community.

Stacy Park, Elison Park, Sarah Doan and Kearney Park.

Kyla Morgan holds up her sign.

The Brig Celebrates Big

Longtime Venice watering hole hosts anniversary party

By Michele Robinson

The Brig recently celebrat ed its big 70th anniver sary on Oct. 23. Located on Abbot Kinney Boulevard, The Brig is an iconic and well-loved establishment in Venice.

“We got a great turnout for the 70th anniversary,” said Jared Meisler, co-owner of The Brig. “The neighborhood celebrated and all of the regulars were there.”

An estimated 400 to 500 people came out to celebrate the special day, which included live music, two happy hours, food trucks, and complimentary tattoos from a local tattoo artist. Several DJs entertained the crowd including DJ Dred Foxx, DJ Illa and DJ Jayvon. The celebrations lasted until 2 a.m.

“For the 70th we offered great drinks, great DJs, and great music for the neighborhood crowd,” Meisler said.

The Brig’s cover band, The Brig Band, played an extra-long set lasting about three hours. In the past, The Doors guitarist Robby Krieger has joined them as their special guest. Krieger co-wrote many of the iconic group’s most popular hits including “Light My Fire," "Love Me Two Times," "Touch Me” and "Love Her Madly.”

“The Brig Band has played at The Brig for the past 23 years,” said co-owner Patti Reiss. "They have a group of core players and can be found here every Tuesday at 8 p.m.”

At the anniversary celebration, tattoos from Royal Heritage Tattoo and Body Piercing were offered for free. Over a dozen people received them and will forever have The Brig immor talized on their bodies.

There were also discounts on drinks and special gear. During the 2 to 4 p.m. happy hour, drinks cost 70 cents. Limitededition hats and T-shirts were also available. St. Joseph’s Center, a local Venice nonprofit offering assistance to those experiencing homelessness, received a portion of proceeds from the anniversary party.

The Brig, with its iconic sign of Golden Glove Boxer “Babe” Brandelli, has been a gathering place and staple of the Venice community since 1952. Bran

delli, who was a local Venice boxer in the 1930s, was The Brig’s first owner. He ran the establishment for about 50 years until his retirement. The current co-owners, Dave and Patti Reiss, bought it in 1999, then Jared Meisler came on board several years ago.

Capturing the eclectic spirit of Venice, The Brig was consid ered a biker dive bar. When the current owners took over, one of the first things they did was remodel it. From February to April 2001, they closed The Brig to make the updates.

“We wanted to give it a new elevated look,” Dave said. “We kept the original sign and the mural that was restored in 1990.”

Created in 1973 by a local Southern California artist and muralist named Art Mortimer, the mural is a “snapshot” of Babe and his beautiful wife Betty. The Brandellis are posing outside The Brig. Considered a mural within a mural, it depicts Mortimer on a ladder working on the mural in the background. The mural can be found located at the rear of the bar, near the patio.

The owners also changed The Brig’s hours and expanded the list of spirits served. Originally, it was open from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m., 365 days a week. When they took over, they decided to open it in the afternoons. They also enlarged the bar menu to include cocktails, good beers, and other drinks like agave spirits.

Currently, The Brig is known for offering its popular Mojitos menu and house cocktails that are named after boxing moves like “Knockout” and “South Paw.” There is even a “Babe Brandelli” shot, in homage to its original owner and founder.

In 2008, another innovation was the Reiss’ connection to food trucks. Besides drinking, many of The Brig’s regular customers wanted something to eat. During this time, food trucks were transitioning to offer good cuisine by reputable chefs. This included the Kogi Korean BBQ Taco Truck, which was co-founded by celebrity chef Roy Choi. Choi, who is a big advocate of street food culture, was one of the first

Iconic Venice establishment The Brig recently celebrated its 70th anniversary with a big party.

PHOTO CREDIT: ROB STARK PHOTOGRAPHY

Originally established in 1952, The Brig features a bohemian charm and charisma that reflects the neighborhood’s diverse spirit.

trucks to park in The Brig’s parking lot. Since this beginning, The Brig has continued this tradition and brings in local food trucks on Fridays. This is the origins of the First Friday Food Truck night on Abbot Kinney. From 5 to 9:30 p.m. on the first Friday of every month, locals can come out to dine and enjoy dozens of A-list food trucks. To com memorate the 70th anniversary and this incredible historical link to The Brig, food trucks were on-site all day and night with a special appearance by the Kogi BBQ Truck.

Celebrating 70 years, The Brig is proud

to continue its long history as a local hangout that draws in the neighborhood crowd.

“The ambiance, relaxed neighborhood feel, and world-class bartenders are what The Brig is all about,” Meisler said.

The Brig 1515 Abbot Kinney Boulevard, Venice 310-399-7537 thebrig.com

Winning the Wright Way

Local company receives prestigious business award

COURTESY PHOTOS

preparing for the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP). During this time (Oct. 15 to Dec. 7), they studied the Medicare law changes, plan benefits, and became certified annually with most major carriers. This enabled them to help their new and existing clients confidently select the plan that is right for them. Their expertise helps promote high customer retention, with many of their clients remaining loyal to the Wright Health Agency for years.

When asked what is next for Wright Health Agency in light of this award, Doug said, “We value being a family-run

company who helps people and knows our clients. Our plan is to keep doing what we do. We will keep our finger on the pulse of all the Medicare plans out there and help each client get the best plan that is right for them.

Quality service from our team will take us into the future. Our prosperity will continue to emerge from satisfied customers who trust us.”

All services by the team of Jonathan Smith, Gabriel Smith and Doug Wright are always free to every client.

Wright Health Agency wrighthealthagency.com

By Michele Robinson

It takes a lot of hard work and ethical service to win the prestigious 2022 “Ethics Small Business Award.” That is exactly why Jonathan Howland Smith and his son, Gabriel, won this accolade for Wright Health Agency.

Blair Looney, president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau (BBB), publicly present ed the award to the agency. During the NBC-covered presentation on Sept. 7, 2022, Looney said, “In the history of the BBB Ethics Award, Wright Health has received more letters of recommendation and positive reviews than any other busi ness.”

Wright Health Agency prides themselves on their ethical business transactions and is thrilled to win this award. The award covers the geographical area of Central and Southern California and is reserved for companies that have smaller than 10 employees.

“It is an honor and blessing to be awarded the most ethical small business in Central and Southern California,” said Doug Wright, founder and president.

They credit this win to their strong belief that a company should express ethical behavior consistently, starting at the top and trickling down.

“Our founders, Linda and Doug Wright, led by example and expect our small team of five people to put honesty and integrity first, before sales,” said vice-president Jonathan Smith. “We always spend quality time with every client to learn their unique needs and expectations.”

Established in 2002 by Doug and Linda Wright, Wright Health Agency is an independent health brokerage firm. It provides a wide range of health insurance products and services to senior citizens in West Los Angeles, Pasadena, Coachella Valley and five Western states.

Both Jonathan and Gabriel are natives of Venice. For Jonathan, ethics is a value that was instilled in him as a child.

However, this father-son team's value of ethical service doesn't start there. They come from a long local lineage that dates back to early Venice pioneers who arrived in the early 1900s. For over 115 years their family has made a difference in Ocean Park,

Venice, and the West Los Angeles community by helping construct many of the churches and over 100 homes.

Prior to joining the Wright Health Agency, Jonathan and his wife, Diane, were founding pastors of the Venice Vineyard Church. In 2015, Jonathan became part of the Wright team and Gabriel joined the growing company in 2019.

Since Jonathan joined forces with Doug and Linda, they have vowed to keep the business small and done over 100 community educational and sales events. Educating seniors to help them understand Medicare basics is just one of the ways Wright Health serves their communities.

Another attribute the team offers is consistent client care.

“We don’t just sign up a senior in a Medicare health plan and expect them to navigate the often confusing maze of Medicare alone,” Gabriel said. “We take care of our clients. As a result, they tell their friends.”

Additionally, the agency provides its clients with exper tise. The sales team spent hundreds of hours each year

The BBB Ethics Award covers the geographical area of Central and Southern California and is reserved for companies that have smaller than 10 employees.

Gabriel Smith works for Wright Health Agency, which received the 2022 Most Ethical Small Business award by the Better Business Bureau.

By Kamala Kirk

Beachside Restaurant & Bar at Jamaica Bay Inn debuted a refreshed seasonal menu for fall/ winter featuring various new items such as Honey Nut Squash, Local Duarte Salmon, Pumpkin Picadillo and Goat Cheese Empanadas, and Red Wine Poached Pear.

“We are currently utilizing seasonal ingredients such as honey nut squash and pears,” said Chef Irene Verceles. “Guests will be able to enjoy the seasonality of these dishes so when they taste them, they can definitely feel that we are in fall/winter. The desserts are also very delicious in their own right with a little something everyone will enjoy.”

Among Verceles’ recommendations are the fried prawn, New York steak and the pork tomahawk. When asked how she finds inspiration in her dishes, she said it goes back to her own roots and love of

food.

“Coming from a Filipino background, food was always a centerpiece at every gathering,” Verceles said. “Being able to go to the farmers market and try the beautiful produce they have available or even trying different food I’ve never had before was an incredible experience.”

Located on the waterfront in Marina del Rey, Beachside Restaurant & Bar overlooks Mother’s Beach and is known for serving elevated California cuisine. In addition to a full bar and dining room, the oceanfront patio is located steps from the sand to offer guests a one-of-akind al fresco dining experience. Call or visit the website to make a reservation.

Beachside Restaurant & Bar 4175 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310-823-5333 jamaicabayinn.com

‘This Came Out of the Blue’

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

Danny Lidgi didn’t consciously decide to become musician Mr. Opposite.

Instead, it chose him.

“It came out of a perfect storm of events,” said Lidgi, a Playa Vista resident.

“I was doing very well in life. I had a girlfriend. I was living with my girlfriend. Money was no object. It all came crashing down with the recession. I was living that riches to rags story. I was OK with it because this new thing inside of me was growing.”

What was germinating was “18 and Stupid,” a quirky pop song led by a xylophone that defies any trend. It was inspired by a tattoo he got at 18.

“I never knew how to play anything,” he said. “I didn’t know how to write a song. I was learning along the way. These melodies just started coming out of me.”

“I had this thing, this little seed of a saving grace to use as an outlet. I didn’t care about losing everything.”

Lidgi may be new to original music, but he is a longtime lover of entertainment. When he was 13, he and his parents saw “Phantom of the Opera” in San Francisco.

“I was flabbergasted by it,” he said. “I thought it was the most incredible thing I saw.”

His love of theater made him “that oddball in high school who was on the fringes.”

“I love music, but this was something that came out of the blue. I’ve always been inspired by ‘Phantom of the Opera,’” he said.

Deep lyrics

Fans have told Lidgi how much they enjoy the lyrics of “18 and Stupid,” a story, he said, took a lifetime to write.

“But it took me 10 years to get it right — just this one song,” he added. “It’s like a script in Hollywood that goes around eight or nine years before it’s made.

“It’s carefully crafted: Every lyric, every movement of the song, every piece of the music. It’s very, very important. Melodies are easy to create, but

Danny Lidgi flips the switch with Mr. Opposite

Playa Vista resident Danny Lidgi is a musical artist known as Mr. Opposite.

PHOTOS BY CHRIS MORTENSON

lyrics and compelling songwrit ing, that’s something different.”

Lyrics are important to him and he’s proud that fans enjoy them.

“To make great art is one thing,” he said. “Anybody can make a song. But it takes a lot to pour your heart out, to sacrifice your life to do that. I wouldn’t have done it if the lyrics were standard or substan dard. What was coming out of me was so good.”

He takes the music seriously. For inspiration, he looks to lyricists/singers like Bono and the Goo Goo Dolls’ Johnny Rzeznik. Imagery is important: In “18 and Stupid” he sings, “A serial flake cartoon / On a hot air balloon.” Part of that line is reflected in his merchandise.

“They’re important people and artists,” he said. “Their songs are poetic. They’re not just throwaway pieces — not that I don’t like the garbage that everybody else likes. There is McDonald’s stuff, but there’s the stuff on the super high level that I believe I’m on.

“Very few people are blessed to write amazing lyrics that have that sort of double entendre, where you’re just amazed by the story. The same goes for films like ‘Good Will Hunting.’ This is along those lines. It’s a story that, when you read the lyrics, you’re blown away by it.”

Directed by Jared Barel, the clever video aptly tells the story with a chain-smoking, leather jacket-clad lead character. Lidgi admits he was hesitant about the accompanying video.

“I felt it was necessary to put imagery behind it,” he added. “It took a very long time to get a guy who was so talented. It’s incredible.”

In the last decade, Lidgi has penned eight or nine songs. Placed side by side, he said, they reveal a diary of sorts.

“This is a testament to the last 11, 12 years of my life,” he said.

“I was living alone. I had nobody around me. I didn’t want anybody around me. I was completely off the grid. I was very anti anything that resem bled a normal life. It was the cliché artist life, I guess you could call it.

“But it was a very important period of time in my life.”

All in the Family Jaq

& Oliver share parents’ musical prowess

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

When Jeremy Adelman played a show in New York last May with his sons, Jaq and Oliver, he was in his element.

“An old friend said, ‘I’ve never seen you smile for an hour straight,’” Jeremy recalled. “It’s really fun playing with the boys. It’s like a dream.”

The Santa Monica trio — dubbed Jaq & Oliver — will hit the stage again locally at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 13, at The Venice West. The 90-minute set will feature covers and a dozen of Jaq’s originals.

“It’s an intimate set,” Jeremy said. “It’s a stripped-down set that we do with just me and the boys. It’s mellow; we’re easing into the holidays.”

Oliver is 13 and Jaq is 15 but the latter is already a schooled musician who was chosen for Grammy Camp twice. A singer-songwriter, he incorpo rates a 1960s-1970s vibe. Oliver, meanwhile, picked up the bass a year ago and his dad called him a natural.

“It fits him like a glove,” Jeremy said. “Originally, when we were going to our show last May (in New York), I hired a drummer, a guitar player and an organ player. I was going to hire a bass player, but Oliver just learned all the songs and took that spot. I was so impressed with how quickly he picked it up.”

The band will also perform as part of 2022 Teaming with Laughter: An Evening of Hilarity Benefiting Israel Sport

Center for the Disabled at 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 12, at the Hollywood Improv. They’re the lone musical act hitting the stage, along with Gary Can non, Wendy Liebman and The Sklar Brothers.

“We’re fans of ‘Better Call Saul,’” Jaq said. “We’re excited to be on the bill with them.”

Jaq, who attends Santa Monica’s Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences, was influ

enced by orchestral music, specifically the theme to the 1970s-era “Superman” TV show. Later, “The Blue Dan ube,” which was predominately featured in “2001: A Space Odyssey,” was a favorite.

Jaq picked up his hobby by playing classical music and then moving on to pop. He has a deep understanding of music for someone who’s in his early teens.

“In the middle of fifth grade, I

started playing trumpet, though,” he said. “At first, I started with the viola. I was very bad at that. I played trumpet and I thought it was fun. I still play that. I definitely say, though, I’m way ahead in piano.”

Jaq enjoys music by Queen and Billy Joel, but recently got into Stevie Wonder.

“I knew the super popular songs like ‘Superstition,’ ‘Sir Duke,’ but when I heard other

songs that aren’t so well known, I loved them more than the other ones,” he said. “He’s amazing.”

Jaq was led into music by Jeremy, an award-winning American film and television score composer, storyteller and record producer. Jaq’s mother, Samanta, is also a musician.

“We raised him playing music all the time,” Samanta said for a previous story. “When he was little, we always had a guitar in the living room, singing songs, classic rock songs and classical music. He was a singing little baby. He’s too shy now to sing. I’m hopefully going to bring that out with him. I think there’s potential.”

Samanta sees promise in her musical son.

“I feel music to him is a necessity,” said Samanta, a longtime music producer.

“He’s always sitting at the piano. Before he says, ‘Good morning,’ he has to go to the piano. He’s not that kind of guy where we have to tell him to go practice. It’s an outlet for him.”

Jeremy is proud of his son, whom he described as “enthusi astic about all-things music.”

Jaq & Oliver

WHEN: 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 13

WHERE: The Venice West, 1717 Lincoln Boulevard, Venice

COST: $10 in advance INFO: thevenicewest.com

Oliver Adelman, left, will perform with his brother, Jaq, right, and their father, Jeremy Adelman, at The Venice West on Tuesday, Dec. 13.

PHOTO COURTESY OF JEREMY ADELMAN

in California and #2 #1

We’re truly honored to be named the #1 hospital in California and #2 in the nation on U.S. News & World Report ’s Best Hospitals Honor Roll. Thank you to our physicians, nurses, academic leaders and thousands of others who always bring their best to this organization and to the people we serve.

#1 in California and Los Angeles #1 in California and Los Angeles #1 in Los Angeles #1 in California and Los Angeles #1 in California and Los Angeles #1 in California and Los Angeles

Family Affair

Supergroup brings legendary songs — and more — to the stage

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

The Immediate Family is steeped in musical history.

The supergroup features guitarist, singer-songwriter Steve Postell, who owns Katonah Studios in Marina Del Rey; guitarist/vocalist Danny Kortchmar; guitarist/vocalist Waddy Wachtel; percussionist Russ Kunkel and bassist Leland Sklar of Pasadena.

The Immediate Family — who has written songs for the likes of Linda Ronstadt, Stevie Nicks, James Taylor, Jackson Browne, Bryan Ferry, Keith Richards, Don Henley and the Bee Gees — plays The Mint at 6010 W. Pico Boulevard in Los Angeles on Saturday, Dec. 10.

“Fans can expect good old rock ‘n’ roll,” Postell said. “We have some of the most legend ary rock ‘n’ roll sidemen in the world. Half of the set are hits that the guys have written for people like Don Henley, Jackson Browne, James Taylor and Warren Zevon, and half of the set is new material that we’ve been writing.

“There are a few all-star bands where they play their old hits. We’re a real band. We’re writing and making music, and making videos, yet we have the legacy.”

Recently, it released the single “The Toughest Girl in Town,” a compelling version of the Sparks song. It’s the first single from The Immediate Family’s forthcoming sophomore effort, “Skin in the Game,” arriving in early 2023 via Quarto Valley Records.

The band is also the subject of the documentary “Immediate Family” by director Denny Tedesco (“The Wrecking Crew!”) and took home the 2022 Audience Awards at the Woodstock and Tallgrass film festivals.

“Denny did such a great job,” Postell said.

“We’ve seen it a lot of times now. I was nervous about it the first time, but I’m pleasantly pleased with how it flows. It’s a great story of the four other guys. I’m the newcomer — I’m the young guy.”

The film tracks the rise and collaborations of the musicians through the 1970s and onward,

spotlighting their partnerships and their mark that helped define the sound of a genera tion.

“When I started out, it was all analog,” he said. “If you wanted to find out who was playing, for me it was the Village Voice in New York. It was a much different world.

“You had to go to a record store and go through record bins to find out what was happening. I watched the massive shift in the way music is made. I think we feel very indebted to and connected to the really great traditions of songwriting and rock ‘n’ roll. You won’t find us playing with tracks.”

Postell was bitten by the music bug early in his life. His parents let him stay up late to

watch “The Ed Sullivan Show” when The Beatles made their first appearance.

“It took me over,” he said.

“It’s just a real love affair. I love all kinds of music. I love getting to play it. It’s a neverending journey, if you want it to be, in terms of growth and exploration.”

The Immediate Family is a modern iteration of a legendary studio ensemble known as The Section, who played for James Taylor and Jackson Browne.

“Jump ahead to six or seven years ago, and a Japanese label wanted to re-release The Section records,” he said.

“They got in touch with Danny and said, ‘Why don’t you put the band together, come here and tour?’

“They thought about it and it

didn’t materialize. The feeling was, ‘We did that, and it was good in its time.’ They didn’t feel it was necessary to revisit.”

Postell suggested they get together but do something else. They assembled a band, but it wasn’t The Immediate Family.

Kortchmar was approached about releasing an album of his hits with him singing. They went to Jackson Browne’s studio and, in the middle of making Kortchmar’s record, it “felt like a band.”

“It was extremely organic,” Postell said. “We didn’t have discussions about it. It was a very effortless and organic process.”

The Immediate Family plays songs like Kortchmar’s “Dirty Laundry” and “Somebody’s

Baby,” by Henley and Browne, respectively, and new tunes. Postell said there hasn’t been any change in response.

“It’s the same writers, the same players, the same energy,” he added. “There’s not a big different from one to the other. They hold up just as well. They’re really well-writ ten songs and they fit. We have a sound at this point.”

The Immediate Family w/ Angela Petrilli and Resurrection Road

WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10

WHERE: The Mint, 6010 W. Pico Boulevard, LA COST: Tickets start at $30 INFO: themintla.com

The Immediate Family is, from left, Steve Postell, Russ Kunkel, Leland Sklar, Waddy Wachtel and Danny Kortchmar.

PHOTO BY ROB SHANAHAN

Community Holiday Extravaganza

Venice High School Alumni Association hosts Artisan Craft Fair

By Kamala Kirk

The Venice High School Alumni Association hosted the Venice Artisan Craft Fair, a unique community event that featured a selection of local artisans, crafters, makers and masters, among others. The event was free to attend and visitors enjoyed strolling around the fair while shopping for arts, crafts, food and other items for the entire family.

“It is always great to see how much involvement the Venice High School

Alumni has with our community, our craft fair is one of the many events we host that ties us all together,” said Nanette Chor pash, VHS Alumni Association, Art Director. “As an artist myself, it was fun to share my crafts alongside so many amazing artisans. This was our first of this kind of function for the VHSAA, break ing away from all high school, as we showed our community’s strong side of giving. When neighbors asked when we will hold another artisan/craft fair, I would call this a successful day.”

Amber Spence is all smiles at her booth Serial Knitter.

Susan R. Grieder shows off custom ceramics at her Beauty Underfoot booth.

A group shot of all the vendors at the show.

Kim Chorpash behind her booth of custom sea art.

Jorge Ayala selling custom bowls for Bowls by Grants.

Shirlene Levingston enjoying the Venice Alumni Craft Fair.

60TH ANNUAL MARINA DEL REY

Holiday Boat Parade

OFFICIAL PROGRAM

HOLIDAY BOAT PARADE

We are so excited to present the 60th Annual Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade presented by Cedars-Sinai Marina del Rey Hospital. Hitting our 60-year milestone we are pulling out all the stops this year and have amazing announce ments for our 60th Annual Parade. First, we are happy to welcome back Cedars-Sinai Marina del Rey Hospital as our presenting sponsor. Cedars-Sinai Marina del Rey Hospital has turned into an amazing partner, and we are happy to have them back this year again.

Our Grand Marshal this year is Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell. Holly J. Mitchell is the Supervi sor for the 2nd District here in Los Angeles, which covers Marina del Rey as well as other parts of LA. We are hon ored that the Supervisor is taking her valuable time to come help us spread holiday cheer at the boat parade.

Sparkle on the Water History of the Boat Parade

In addition, we also have Katharine McPhee, “American Idol” winner in 2006; and David Foster, 16-time Grammy Award winner, who will be joining us as our Celebrity Grand Marshals. This amazing couple will be cheering to the crowd from our Grand Marshal Boat so don’t miss getting a glimpse of these amazing talents.

Finally, we are very excited to announce that the 2022 Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade presented by Cedars-Sinai Marina del Rey Hospital will be giving away an 8-day European River Voyage hosted by Viking Cruises. This cruise has a retail value of over $7,000 and is open to everyone who signs up for our free giveaway sweepstakes. It’s easy to enter, just go to our web site (www.mdrboatpa rade.org) to sign up for this amazing trip of a lifetime.

Look forward to seeing everyone in Marina del Rey on Dec. 10 at 5:55 p.m. for fireworks and the parade will start promptly at 6 p.m.

David Ross President

Thousands of us who live in the Marina and thousands more from miles around come to the Marina to see the annual boat parade in Marina del Rey. But very few remember the first boat parade in Marina del Rey. When that first boat parade circled the Marina’s main basin in 1963 there were approximately 100 boats in the Marina and almost no buildings. Twenty of the hundred boats entered the parade.

Margie and Steve Bragg were among the first hundred Marina del Rey Boat owners who formed Pioneer Skippers Boat Owners Association. They and the other charter members decided to have a boat parade “because the harbor had nothing at the time,” Margie remembered. “We thought it was a good idea, and the county was delighted. Our boat parade would advertise the Marina when nobody wanted to come here.

“The Marina had just opened and had no breakwater, no nothing except a few docks. And very few boat owners. In those days, the surge was so strong that it was frightening,” Margie remembered, referring to the waves of water that would come roaring into the unprotected Marina del Rey harbor, damaging berthed boats. “There were times when it threw boats up on the docks—or threw the docks up in the air and down onto the boats. Sometimes we’d all grab axes we kept handy to cut the dock lines quickly before our boats were beaten under the docks. Then we’d all anchor out in the middle till it calmed down. We were a very close group and we had dinners ashore and sometimes dinner dances at our home.”

At that time, the Braggs lived ashore and had just finished building a 47-foot trimaran that Steve designed. The Tres Leis (Three Leis) was built in their own shop, with professional help from Arthur Piver, a multihull designer, since lost at sea. “Our trimaran was ideal for a Christmas parade float–a 47-by-24-foot platform. All of us got excited about a boat parade, regardless of the size boat.”

“In the beginning, we walked the docks to get parade entries. We asked for a $2 donation. I remember talking to a man who wanted to enter but he didn’t have any money and I was so anxious to see his boat in the parade that I offered him the $2 entry fee.”

“What fun it was! Everyone chipped in—and worked!” Donations from merchants and hard work by boat owners put the boat parades together. “For the first few years each parade might have cost us $50 or $60," Margie said. "In fact, it may have been less. Everything but printing the entry form was done by donation, and the printer gave us a nice low price on the entry forms.”

“There was only one restaurant open in the Marina when we had the first boat parade. The Pieces O’ Eight was at the end of a little dirt road. It’s hard to believe now, but everyone in the Marina came—and there was room inside for all of us.”

The Marina grew from 100 to nearly 6,000 boats since the first few boat parades. In 1964, a detached breakwater was built to solve the surge problems. The first restaurant, Pieces O’ Eight on Fiji Way, is now Shanghai Red’s. The Christmas Boat Parade is now a Holiday Boat Parade.

The Braggs moved away many years ago. However, many Marina boat owners who have lighted and decorated their boats for marina del Rey boat parades through the years are still here. They may not have won, but they joined the parade, and as they watch each year’s new parade, they remember. Standing on the docks, watching the parade every year, they recall winning–and not winning, but participating in –the boat parade. After their grand efforts, they elected to become spectators.

Along with newcomers, who watch this parade for the first time are the many boat owners and crew who have perpetuated our salute to the holidays, Marina del Rey’s annual Holiday Boat Parade.

2022 Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade

Holiday Boat Parade Harbor Map

Viewing Spots & Parking

The public can view the parade and listen to live announcements at two locations:

• Fisherman’s Village: 13650 Mindanao Way, Marina del Rey

• Burton Chace Park: 13755 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey

Event parking is available between $5 and $15 in County Lots. Pay stations take cash and Visa/ Mastercard. The public parking lots closest to Burton Chace Park (Winter Rates).

60th Annual Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade

When will the boat parade take place?

The parade is on Dec. 10, 2022. Fireworks start at 5:55 p.m. The parade starts at 6 p.m.

What is the theme for this year’s boat pa rade?

“Sparkle on the Water.” Join for a magical night of the marina, full of enchantment and wonder.

Does the weather affect the parade?

The parade will run rain or shine. However, in the interest of safety, upon the issuance of a small watercraft advisory notice from the Coast Guard, the parade would be cancelled for that evening. This decision will be made at 6 p.m. on the day. A message will be post ed on the website at mdrboatparade.org in the extremely rare case of the parade being cancelled.

How many boats participate?

Last year we had over 70 boats in the pa rade. This year we expect to have a few more than last year.

How can I enter the boat parade?

The parade is open to everyone with a boat and lights. There is no minimum or maxi mum size to enter the parade. In the past we

have had kayaks and even SUP (stand-up paddleboards) enter the parade. To enter, download the form on the website, register online at mdrboatparade.org/parade-entry/ enter-online or come to the Parade Skip per’s Meeting at Burton Chace Park. The deadline for online registration is Friday, Dec. 9 at 8 p.m. You can also enter on Satur day, Dec. 10 at the Skipper’s Meeting. Be sure to arrive at the meeting at 8:30 a.m.

Is there a cost to attend?

The boat parade is free to attend.

Awards Ceremony

Awards Ceremony

The Awards Ceremony for the Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade will be held after the parade at 9 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 10 at Killer Shrimp. Appetizers (vegetarian options available) and a no-host bar will be provided for all boaters. Two people invited per boat entry.

Please join the Awards Ceremony for the Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade at the Santa Monica Windjam mers Yacht Club on Sunday, Dec. 12 from 2 to 4 p.m. A buffet (vegetarian options available) and no-host bar will be provided for all boaters. Two people invited per boat entry.

Additional attendees are $10 each at the door.

Additional attendees are $10 each at the door.

There will be a photo slide presenta tion of all entries. Boat entrants will need to return 3 assigned numbers at the ceremony. Parking spaces are available at the Yacht Club. Please wear a mask or face covering before entering.

There will be a photo slide presenta tion of all entries. Fabulous gifts will include hotel stays, restaurants, enter tainment, golf, theater, and everyone goes home with a prize. Free parking is available. Please return two assigned numbers at the awards ceremony.

Address: Santa Monica Windjam mers Yacht Club, 13589 Mindanao Way, Marina del Rey

Address: Killer Shrimp, 4211 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey

Award

Categories

Award Categories

Best Overall

Best Overall Best Power

Power

Sail

Sail

Individual

Theme

Organization

Music

Charter

Yacht Club

Lights

Company

Theme

Music

Spirit

Animation Best Spirit Best Live Band Best Individual Best Yacht Club

Live Band

Lights

Animation Where

Parking at Burton Chace Park is available for $8 in County Lots #77 and #4. Pay sta tions take credit cards and cash. Parking is also available at Fisherman’s Village (cash only, $1 per 20 minutes, $15 max; pay at tendant at exit).

HOLIDAY BOAT PARADE

Boat Parade Grand Marshal

Holly J. Mitchell

Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell currently serves as Chair of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors. As the daughter of parents who were public servants and a third-generation Angeleno, Mitchell leads with a deep understanding of the vital safety net LA County provides to millions of families and is committed to ensuring that all residents can thrive. Since being elected to the Board of Supervi sors on Nov. 3, 2020, Supervisor Mitchell has made poverty alleviation a countywide priority and has anchored an equitable recovery plan from the health and economic pandemic caused by COVID-19.

Within her first year as Supervisor and with support from the County Board of Supervisors, Mitchell passed a landmark guaranteed income program, made LA County the first in the nation to phase out urban oil drilling and has strengthened the County’s ability to quickly respond to mental health crises among our unhoused residents. Supervisor Mitchell is honored to represent the 2 million residents of Los Angeles County’s Second District–including the neighborhood she grew up in–Leimert Park, along with the cities of Carson, Compton, Culver City, El Segundo, Gardena, Hawthorne, Hermosa Beach, Inglewood, Lawndale, Los Angeles (portions), Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, and a dozen unincorporated communities.

Boat Parade Celebrity Grand Marshals

David Foster

David Foster is one of the most illustrious composers of our time. With 16 Grammy Awards, including three for Producer of the Year, an Emmy Award, a Golden Globe, and Three Oscar nominations for “Best Original Songs,” Foster has earned a reputation as a keen spotter of new talent, playing a key role in the discovery and career launches of Celine Dion, Josh Groban, and Michael Bublé. Few other individuals can claim to have their fingerprints on more major moments in all of popular music than Foster. He has created hit songs for a diverse array of artists including Barbra Streisand, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, Madonna, Andrea Bocelli, Michael Bublé, Josh Groban, Rod Stewart, Stevie Wonder; Earth, Wind & Fire; Diana Krall, Natalie Cole, Michael Bolton, Seal, Chaka Khan, Kenny Rogers, Dolly Parton, Chicago, Hall Oates, Brandy, ’N Sync, Boz Scaggs, and Gloria Estefan. Foster is gearing up to take on Broadway with several projects including writing the music for a new musical about the iconic animated character “Betty Boop.” He is also writing the music for a musical based on the Amy Bloom novel and New York Times bestseller “Lucky Us.”

Katharine McPhee

Katharine McPhee can most recently be seen starring in the Netflix Original Series “Country Comfort.” Previously she starred as Paige Dineen on the CBS spy drama “Scorpion” and was featured in NBC’s award-winning musical series “Smash,” executive produced by Steven Spielberg. Her other television credits include “CSI:NY”, “Community” and “Family Guy.” McPhee appeared on the big screen in Columbia’s romantic comedy “The House Bunny.” In addition to her acting career, she finds great success in the music space after her turn on Season 5 of “American Idol.” McPhee’s first single debuted at #2 on the Billboard’s Hot Singles Sales chart. Her debut album landed on the Billboard 200 chart and went gold in 2008. McPhee also has a presence in theater, having recently starred in both the U.S. and U.K. productions of “Waitress.”

Boat Parade Judges

Janet Bubar Rich

A resident of Marina del Rey and sailing enthusiast, Janet Bubar Rich serves as Commodore of Del Rey Yacht Club, after serving on the DRYC Bridge, Board, and several committees while chairing the club’s Speaker Series since 2013. Rich has served on such nonprofit boards as the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, Los Angeles Chapter since 2015. Having been a marketing communications manager in the corpo rate world and a published author with a doctorate in mythology, Rich is dedicated to community service.

Andrew Harris

Andrew Harris grew up in a small town just east of Seattle where his father told him he was born with a soccer ball at his feet. With two older brothers and a twin sister, he was always busy doing something outside and causing ruckus with one of his siblings. As a kid, he played soccer, basketball, tennis, and baseball, but ended up focusing just on soccer and eventually played at the collegiate level for two years.

After graduating from college with a degree in psychology with an emphasis on crim inal justice, Harris relocated to Beverly Hills where he took a role as a bodyguard pro tecting celebrities and fortune 500 executives, which lasted about three years taking him all over the country. He soon realized being a bodyguard wasn’t his passion, so he moved to Scottsdale and became a sales manager working at the JW Marriott.

Over the next 14 years, Harris worked his way up the ranks with numerous manage ment companies in and within the hospitality industry in Arizona and Washington as a Director of Sales and now GM of the Marina del Rey Hotel with Pacifica Hotels. He is blessed that he found something he truly enjoys and loves what he does. On the week ends you will find Harris boogie boarding in El Porto or hiking up a trail in Malibu.

Joe Coleman

Joe Coleman is Chief Operating Officer at Decron Properties. Coleman is responsible for directing Decron’s Residential and Commercial platforms, as well as the construc tion and marketing efforts for the company. Prior to Decron, Coleman served as COO for Mosser Companies and Area Vice President for Laramar. He brings over 14 years of experience in the property management industry and he has managed over 12,000 units from Class A to C assets throughout California, Washington, Nevada, and Arizo na. Coleman's background includes managing all operations, financial reporting, asset management, budget development, expense management, and building highly effective teams. Coleman is a dynamic leader, committed to excellence and delivering best-inclass performance benchmarks. Coleman’s unique approach to employee development and process optimization is critical in maximizing employee engagement and creating a culture centered on collaboration and teamwork.

Jerry Jen

Jerry Jen is the founder and managing attorney of the Jen Law Firm, APC, a law firm that focuses of commercial collections, creditors’ rights, and judgment en forcement. Jen enjoys helping business owners resolve their business disputes and recover what is duly owed to them. Aside from practicing law, Jen currently serves as a board member with the LAX Coastal Chamber of Commerce, and is also the honorary mayor of Westchester this year. Jen is an active Rotarian from the Rotary Club of Playa Venice Sunrise, and enjoys working with others to serve the com munity.

Nicole King

Nicole King is a family woman, friend to many, and mentor. As a native Angeleno, King has built a beautiful family with her husband and five children. She has served the community and built a career advocating on the behalf of children who are historically underserved. Her experiences as a foster parent and as a member of the Los Angeles County Child Abuse Council are evidence of her empathy and level-mindedness. Al though she is currently retired and working in the private sector, King remains steadfast in her advocacy of children, bringing voice to their needs and light into their lives through work with the Rotary Youth Exchange by way of her proud membership in the Westchester Rotary Club. Homegrown and proud, Nicole received her bachelor’s de gree from the University of Southern California. Additionally, she attained a master’s degree from the University of California, Los Angeles. Taking advantage of the op portunities of graduate school, Mrs. King lived in Shizuoka, Japan. As a result of this time abroad, she continues to enjoy many aspects of Japanese culture, including hosting foreign exchange students from Japan.

Sean Moor

Sean Moor loves a good story. As a child he was shipwrecked alone on the desert island of Biblios, which is not far from Borneo. He survived typhoons, shark at tacks and defeated the pirate attack at West Reef. He was finally rescued in 1983 on Christmas Eve by a Holiday Boat Parade entrant that accidentally left the harbor and kept going. Moor has said that he’d never forget the splendid sight of that boat listing onto his beach all lit up like a Times Square Christmas Tree. Today, Moor Moor is the manager of Westchester’s beloved independent bookstore – The Book Jewel.

WESTSIDE HAPPENINGS

Compiled by Kamala Kirk

Have an event for the calen dar? Send it to kkirk@timespub lications.com

Betty’s Place Toy Drive Dec. 9 to 19

Drop off your toy donations through Dec. 19 at Betty’s Place. Check their website for store hours.

2314 Lincoln Boulevard, bettysplace.la

Open Art Studios

Friday, Dec. 9

Grand View Fine Arts Studios presents Open Art Studios, a superb art and live music experience. Everyone is wel come.

3871 Grand View Boulevard, Mar Vista, 6 to 10 p.m.

Sip & Sign Holiday Pop-Up Friday, Dec. 9

Head to Dorado 806 Art Space for picture book fun: authors, book signings, revelry, stories, drinks, cookies, and of course, art. There will be a meet & greet with the creators of featured books including Andrea Campos, Jennifer Sinclair, Priscilla Witte, and Mags DeRoma. There will be cookies and drinks (for grown-ups and little ones), a handmade gift wrap station, a gallery of the original art from picture books, and of course, good times and great music! Pick up some special gifts for your favorite book lovers, and get them signed by the makers. Little ones welcome but not required. Free event.

806 Broadway, Santa Monica, 5 to 8 p.m.

Holiday Lights Tour & Contest Dec. 10 to 26

Tickets are on sale for the Westchester Mental Health Guild’s 3rd Annual Holiday Lights Tour & Contest. For $10, ticket purchasers will get a map of Contest homes to see in Westchester and Playa del Rey from December 10 to 26.

On Dec. 10 from 5 to 9 p.m., come

Through Dec. 20, tour goers can vote for their favorites, with the winners announced December 21. All proceeds benefit Airport Marina Counseling Service. 2022holidayslightstour. eventbrite.com

Winter Open Saturday, Dec. 10

Join Bergamot Station Arts Center for their Winter Open event. Bergamot Station Arts Center is an internationally renowned creative arts complex, boasting over 20 galleries and creative businesses. The Winter Open highlights gallery exhibi tions and brings together artist talks, curator walkthroughs, live performances, opening recep tions and more. Come enjoy a thriving arts community gather ing! This is a free, family-friend ly event. There are no tickets necessary to gain admission. Visit the website for more information about specific event times including workshops and artist talks.

2525 Michigan Avenue, Santa Monica, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., bergamotstation.com

Memorial for Linda Albertano Saturday, Dec. 10

The literary community of Los Angeles anchored around Beyond Baroque among other numerous locations from Venice Beach to the downtown Los Angeles Library lost a significant voice on Sept. 13. Linda Alber tano was a longtime resident of Venice and an icon of the LA poetry community, a rare talent among performance artists, and a gifted musician. A memorial will be held for Ms. Albertano at Beyond Baroque. 1 p.m. arrival, there will be a performance at 1:30 p.m. 681 Venice Boulevard, Venice, 1 p.m.

Culver City Symphony Orchestra Saturday, Dec. 10

Maxim Kuzin, who studied and started his conducting career in his native Ukraine, will lead the season opening concert of the Culver City Symphony. The Junior winner of the 2019 Parness Concerto Competition, Yirou (Ronnie) Zhang, will perform Alexander Glazunov’s Violin Concerto. Her appearance with the orchestra was delayed when Covid-19 shut down concerts in early 2020. The concert will be presented free of charge to the public at The Robert Frost Auditorium at Culver City High School.

4401 Elenda Street, Culver City, 7:30 p.m., culvercitysymphony.org

Snake Coffin at TR!P Santa Monica

Saturday, Dec. 10

80s rock/pop classics and TV themes! Appearing with Nature Loves Courage and Deadcenter. $10.

2101 Lincoln Boulevard, Santa Monica, 8 to 11:30 p.m., 310-396-9010, tripsantamonica.com/tripsanta-monica

Pet Crafting Station Sunday, Dec. 11

Join for a special pet crafting station at the Motor Avenue Farmers Market, located at National and Motor. Led by a Girl Scout who is working on her Gold Award, everyone is welcome to stop by and make enrichment items to help pets in shelters and rescue groups enjoy the holidays. All materials will be provided free of charge and all made items will be donated. For more information visit @ reducinganimalstress.

Motor Avenue Farmer’s Market, Motor Avenue and National Boulevard, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Pet Adoption Sunday, Dec. 11

Looking to adopt a new furry friend for the holidays? Don’t shop, adopt with Beach City Kitties holiday pet adoption event. For more information visit @beachcitykittiesrescue.

Motor Avenue Farmer’s Market, Motor Avenue and National Boulevard, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Culver City Woman’s Club Monthly Meeting Monday, Dec. 12

10

will be Eric Coffey, a wellknown musician. They will be also offering a hot served lunch at a minimal fee. This will be a truly fun meeting, music, food, discussing all the upcoming fun things available. The Culver City Woman’s club is a nonprofit philanthropic and social organi zation that supports a number of local charitable causes such as Student Scholarships, Shoes for the Homeless, West LA Veterans, Children’s Foster Care Services, Meals on wheels, Lange Founda tion (no kill shelter) and several more. Check-in and shopping at 10 a.m., meeting at 10:30 a.m. For more information, contact Pat Harmon at 310-569-6595 or at: patricia.harmon@med.usc. edu.

4464 Sepulveda Boulevard, Culver City, 10 a.m.

Cedars-Sinai Blood Drive Monday, Dec. 12

Save a life by donating blood at the Westchester Elks Lodge. Donors will receive their choice of an In-N-Out gift card or voucher for a free pint of Baskin-Robbins ice cream. To make an appointment to give blood, visit the website below. Donors must be at least 17 years of age; a 16-year-old may donate if they have a signed parent consent form and weigh at least 135 pounds.

8025 W. Manchester Avenue, Playa del Rey, 1 to 7 p.m., cedars-sinai.org/giveblood (group code: WELG)

Santa Monica Pier Hosts Locals’ Night: Holiday Cheer Thursday, Dec. 15

Revel in the season’s magic with family and friends while enjoying activities for kids, holiday carolers, hot chocolate, a car show, visits from Santa, and so much more. From the historic Merry Go-Round Building to the spectacular West End of the Pier, activities and entertainment will feature the best things about Santa Monica, including homegrown talent, seasonal storytelling and a couple of endearing nods to the past.

200 Santa Monica Pier, Suite A, Santa Monica, 3 to 9 p.m., santamonicapier.org/locals night

1 p.m.,

Fun loving five-piece band of multi-instrumentalists perform ing exceptional covers of 60s to

The Culver City Woman’s club will add a day of festive mu sic. Please attend their December meeting to see and meet new and old friends. The guest performer

check out a trail of beautifully lighted boats at the 60th Annual Holiday Boat Parade in Marina del Rey.

On Dec.

at

a memorial will be held at Beyond Baroque for Ms. Linda Albertano, a longtime resident of Venice and an icon of the LA poetry community.

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WESTCHESTER BEAUTY

Enter the expansive great room filled with natural light that is highlighted by polished hardwood floors, recessed lighting and multiple skylights. The dining and living areas open to the contemporary kitchen with butcher block counters, a large center island with gleaming white quartz countertop, glass-tiled herringbone backsplash, and stainless-steel appliances. The adjacent, oversized sunroom makes a great family room or rec room, and boasts wall-to-wall glass windows and views to the spacious and private fully fenced backyard. The primary suite is a luxurious retreat with vaulted ceilings, sliding glass doors out to the backyard, and an updated en-suite with a sleek glass-enclosed shower. Enjoy the benefits of a quiet suburban community while living a very short distance to the new rail line which connects LAX to the Expo line. Offered at $1,249,000 Stephanie Younger COMPASS 310-499-2020

When you’re selling your home, you need every advantage you can get. And there are few homes that are magically market ready without a little help. If your home needs a touch more than a little help, it’s time to get focused. After all, listing your home when it’s not in the right condition to sell will probably only end in frustration. And, in this case, frustration means: your home sitting on the market for months with no offers or the errant, offensive, lowball.

If you want to make sure you get home sold quickly and for the right price, you’ll want to avoid listing it with the following:

1. Excessive damage

Maybe the home you’re selling was used as a rental and trashed by frat boy tenants, or maybe you just haven’t kept it up as you should. Either way, those holes in the wall that look like the living room was used as a boxing gym, the scratchedup wood floors on which dinosaurs have clearly been racing, and the yard that’s barren except for those two-foot-tall patches of weeds are not what buyers are looking for. Unless you’re planning to offer your house for a price that will make buyers emphasize the good and ignore the bad and the ugly, it’s going to need some attention.

2. Carpet in the bathroom

It’s just gross. And everyone who walks into

that bathroom is thinking one of two things: 1) There’s gotta be mold under there; 2) There’s gotta be pee on the floor around that toilet. This is one update you’ll want to do before you list. Or, if you’re already listed and your home’s not selling.

3. Big, nasty stains

A buyer shouldn’t know where your dog likes to mark or where your kids spilled the entire bowl of holiday punch. If the stains on your carpet are that bad, potential buyers will stroll in and run right back out. No one wants to buy a pigsty. Invest a few bucks in new carpet. You’ll make the money back since you won’t have to drop your sales price.

4. Pet smells

Speaking of pets…they smell. You probably don’t notice since you live with them everyday, but buyers will, and it might be enough to turn them off. Deep clean the carpets and the upholstery, invest in some air fresheners, and remove cat boxes from the house for showings. The last thing you want is a potential buyer referring to your house as “the stinky one.”

5. Loud dogs who bark every time someone approaches the home

One last word on pets. Barking happens, whether it’s your dog or one that belongs to a neighbor. But you don’t need that on the day of your open house. Offering to pay for doggie day care for a neighbor’s pooch can eliminate the issue and help create the serene setting buyers want.

6. Your dead lawn

Lack of curb appeal won’t necessarily kill a deal. In many cases, you won’t even get potential buyers to get out of the car. If the front yard is a mess, buyers will naturally think the mess continues inside.

7. A bad agent

Face it. Not all of them are winners. If your agent is: rude, uninformed, lazy, uncommunicative, belligerent, or unwilling to take your opinions into consideration, get a new one. An agent who isn’t giving their client the right type of attention probably isn’t going to get the job done.

8. Your sloppiness

Those drawers and cabinets you shoved everything into when you cleaned off your kitchen and bathroom cabinets could be a deal breaker for picky buyers. We all know buyers open stuff. They look in drawers, they

open cabinets, they examine closets. If these spaces are messy and overstuffed, they may assume there’s not enough storage space.

9. Unreasonable sellers

Big problems in your house can be deal killers, but they can also be deal sealers, if you are reasonable. If your inspection uncovers plumbing, electrical, or roofing problems (or all three!) and you’re unwilling to negotiate, you can kiss that sale goodbye.

10. Bad Taste

Your poor decorating choices and failure to keep up with trends from this year - or century - may haunt you when it’s time to sell. If it’s true that many buyers have no vision— and all you have to do is watch House Hunters and observe a buyer getting hung up on a paint color to know that’s true - then you are really in for it with your crowded house full of ugly, outdated crap. A few simple updates can help it to look fresh and give buyers something to fall in love with.

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F I C T I T I O U S B U S I N E S S

N A M E S T A T E M E N T F I L E N O 2 0 2 2 2 6 0 7 6 8 T h e f o l l o w i n g p e r s o n ( s ) i s (are) doing business as: BOX CITY, BOX CITY INTERNA T I O N A L , B O X C I T Y O V E R 2 0 0 0 S I Z E S 7 2 7 7 H a y v e n hurst Ave Ste B5 Van Nuys, C A 9 1 4 0 6 C O U N T Y : L o s Angeles Articles of Incorpor a t i o n o r O r g a n i z a t i o n N u m b e r : 1 7 0 2 5 6 6 R E G I S T E R E D O W N E R ( S ) Kairos Packaging, LLC, 7277 Hayvenhurst Ave Ste B5 Van Nuys, CA 91406 State of In c o r p o r a t i o n o r L L C : C a l i f o r n i a T H I S B U S I N E S S I S CON D U C TED BY a L i m i ted Liability Company The date r e g i s t r a n t c o m m e n c e d t o transact business under the f i c t i t i o u s b u s i n e s s n a m e o r n a m e s l i s t e d a b o v e o n : 05/2012 I declare that all in formation in this statement is t r u e a n d c o r r e c t ( A r e g i s t r a n t w h o d e c l a r e s a s t r u e any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Busi n e s s a n d Pr o fe s s i o n s C o d e that the registrant know to be f a l s e i s g u i l t y o f a m i s d e meanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand d o l l a r s ( $ 1 , 0 0 0 ) ) R E G I S

T R A N T / C O R P / L L C N A M E : S a m K h o u r y T I T L E : C E O , C o r p o r L L C N a m e : K a i r o s Packaging, LLC This state m e n t w a s f i l e d w i t h t h e L A County Clerk on: December 0 2 2 0 2 2 N O T I C E i n a c cordance with subdivision (a) of Section 17920 a Fictitious N a m e s t a t e m e n t g e n e r a l l y e x p i r e s a t t h e e n d o f f i v e years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the c o u n t y c l e r k , e x c e p t , a s prov ded in subdivision (b) of Se c ti o n 1 7 9 2 0 , w h e r e i t e x p i r e s 4 0 d a y s a f t e r a n y change in the facts set fort h in the statement pursuant to S e c t i o n 1 7 9 1 3 o t h e r t h a n a change in the residence ad dress of a registered owner a n e w F i c t i t i o u s B u s i n e s s N a m e s t a t e m e n t m u s t b e f i l e d b e f o r e t h e e x p i r a t i o n T h e f i l i n g o f t h i s s t a t e m e n t d o e s n o t o f i t s e l f a u t h o r i z e the use in this state of a ficti tious business name in viola t i o n o f t h e r i g h t s o f a n o t h e r under federa , state, or com mon law (see Section 14411 et seq Business and Profes sions code) Publish: The Ar g o n a u t D a t e s : 1 2 / 0 8 / 2 2 , 12/15/22, 12/22/22, 12/29/22

F I C T I T I O U S B U S I N E S S

N A M E S T A T E M E N T F I L E N O 2 0 2 2 2 5 8 1 4 7 T h e f o l l o w i n g p e r s o n ( s ) i s ( a r e ) d o i n g b u s i n e s s a s : B U Z Z W O R T H Y S H O T S 1 4 0 3 E a g l e V i s t a D r i v e L o s A n g e l e s , C A 9 0 0 4 1

COUNTY: Los Angeles RE

G I S T E R E D O W N E R ( S ) Buzzworthy Shots LLC, 1403 E a g l e V i s t a D r i v e L o s Angeles CA 90041 State of Incorporation or LLC: Califor n i a T H I S B U S I N E S S I S C ON D U C TED BY a L i m i ted Liability Company The date r e g i s t r a n t c o m m e n c e d t o transact business under the f i c t i t i o u s b u s i n e s s n a m e o r n a m e s l i s t e d a b o v e o n : 09/2021 I declare that all in

s ( $ 1 , 0 0 0 ) ) R E G I S T R A N T / C O R P / L L C N A M E : S t e v e n L B u s b y J r T I T L E: P r e s i d e n t , C o r p o r L L C N a m e : B u z z w o r t h y S h o t s LLC This statement was filed with the LA County Clerk on: N o v e m b e r 3 0 , 2 0 2 2 N O T I C E i n a c c o r d a n c e w i t h s u b d i v i s i o n ( a ) o f S e c t i o n 1 7 9 2 0 , a F i c t i t i o u s N a m e s t a t e m e n t g e n e r a l l y e x p i r es at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed i n t h e o f f i c e o f t h e c o u n t y clerk, except, as provided in s u b d i v i s i o n ( b ) o f S e c t i o n 1 7 9 2 0 , w h e r e i t e x p r e s 4 0 days after any change in the f a c t s s e t f o r t h n t h e s t a t e m e n t p u r s u a n t t o S e c t i o n 17913 other than a change in t h e r e s i d e n c e a d d r e s s o f a registered owner a new Ficti t i o u s B u s i n e s s N a m e s t a t e ment must be filed before the e x p i r a t i o n T h e f i l i n g o f t h i s s t a t e m e n t d o e s n o t o f i t s e lf authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of an other under federal, state, or c o m m o n l a w ( s e e S e c t i o n 14411 et seq , Business and P r o f e s s i o n s c o d e ) P

12/15/22, 12/22/22, 12/29/22

who declares as true any material matter pur suant to Section 17913 of the B u s i n e s s a n d P r o f e s s i o n s Code that the registrant know to be false is gu lty of a mis d e m e a n o r p u n i s h a b l e b y a fine not to exceed one thou s a n d d o l l a r s ( $ 1 , 0 0 0 ) ) R E G I S T R A N T / C O R P / L L C N A M E : K a y n a C a s s a r d T I T L E : P r e s i d e n t , C o r p o r L L C N a m e : K a y n a C a s s a r d Marital Therapy This state m e n t w a s f i l e d w i t h t h e L A County Clerk on: December 0 6 , 2 0 2 2 N O T I C E i n a c cordance with subdivision (a) of Section 17920 a Fictitious N a m e s t a t e m e n t g e n e r a l l y e x p i r e s a t t h e e n d o f f i v e years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the c o u n t y c l e r k , e x c e p t , a s provided in subdivision (b) of Se c ti o n 1 7 9 2 0 , w h e r e i t e x p i r e s 4 0 d a y s a f t e r a n y change in the facts set fort h in the statement pursuant to S e c t i o n 1 7 9 1 3 o t h e r t h a n a change in the residence ad dress of a registered owner a n e w F i c t i t i o u s B u s i n e s s N a m e s t a t e m e n t m u s t b e f i l e d b e f o r e t h e e x p i r a t i o n T h e f i l i n g o f t h i s s t a t e m e n t d o e s n o t o f i t s e l f a u t h o r i z e the use in this state of a ficti tious business name in viola t i o n o f t h e r i g h t s o f a n o t h e r under federal, state, or com

LOS ANGELES TIMES SUNDAY

“TIS THE SEASON” BY GARY LARSON & AMY ENSZ

ACROSS 1 “God bless us, __ one!” 6 Cola choice 11 __ pudding: Christmas treat 15 Org. with Falcons and Ravens 18 Stimulates, as curiosity 20 Mr. T’s outfit 21 Syllables from Santa 22 ISP pioneer 23 Snow-covered home in many Hallmark Christmas greetings? 25 Soon, long ago 26 Overly 27 Most wee 28 Task of untangling last year’s outdoor Christmas decorations? 30 “Sounder” Best Actress Oscar nominee Cicely 31 Cap brims 34 Dog-__ 35 Ryder Cup org. 37 Loudness measure 40 Chef’s workload 41 Rude way to describe shopping mall Santas? 47 Completely updated 48 “Well, shoot” 49 Air France hub 50 Wok, for one 53 Coffee cup insulators 55 TV series based on a Coen brothers film 57 Noted secondplace finisher 58 Dodger great Reese 61 Slender stemware 62 Went up a size 63 “Waterloo” quartet 66 Like a decorated Christmas tree, usually?

69 Word with wind and Wing 70 Armoire part 71 Oscar winner Hunt 72 Build up 74 Go up against 75 Parlor piece 76 Shows age, as newspaper 80 Yoga roll 81 Make a bundle? 82 Meyers of latenight TV 86 British fish dish 87 Like the contents of a gift-wrapped pet carrier, hopefully? 91 With good judgment 94 Perfect example 95 Game console letters 96 Perfect 97 Tell 99 Puts at ease 103 Career preparing gifts for those on Santa’s “naughty” list? 105 Proclaim loudly 108 Actress Basinger 109 “Start talking” 110 Portraying Comet’s sleighpulling partner in the Christmas pageant?

College domain 115 Jump 116 Dispatch 117 Wonderland host who says, “It’s always tea-time” 118 Tres menos uno 119 “NASCAR on NBC” analyst Earnhardt Jr. 120 Figures (out) 121 Flowering shrub, in gardener slang DOWN 1 NT book before Philippians 2 Baroque stringed instrument

3 Evenhanded 4 Out of practice 5 Throws away quickly, in slang 6 Busy orgs. during campaigns 7 Coup d’__ 8 According to 9 Despondent 10 Online chats, briefly 11 “Exile in Guyville” singer Liz 12 Yearns (for) 13 “I don’t like the sound of that” 14 __ Jack cheese 15 Essence 16 Header’s opposite 17 London insurance giant 19 Flight school hurdle 24 Italian fashion house known for leather goods 28 Hang around lazily 29 Some parents 31 “La Dolce __” 32 “Yeah, right” 33 Min. fraction 35 Free TV spots 36 Noisy shorebird

Wrap up 39 Mercury or Saturn

Norwegian capital

Words in a cocktail recipe

Nice dream?

Geeky type 45 __ valve: heart part

Pressing need 50 Cut (down) 51 War god 52 Small amphibian 54 African language 55 Ala. neighbor 56 Luminous glow 57 “The Time Machine” author 59 Telepathic girl in “Stranger Things” 60 Jazz great Fitzgerald 61 Marshy area 63 “House of Gucci” actor Driver

64 “The Book of Fett” 65 Boxing match 67 Actor Kingsley 68 “The Whole Woman” writer Germaine 73 Peter Fonda title role 75 Crockett of folklore 77 Confides in 78 Sangria ingredient 79 Gels 81 Wallet 82 Tizzy 83 Kin of -kin 84 Howe’er 85 Garment border 87 “Dreamgirls” actress Sharon 88 Fix, as a horse 89 Brewery letters 90 Praline nut 91 Musical set in Oz 92 Eager reply to “Who wants dessert?” 93 Irish poet Heaney 97 Fit for a queen 98 Skip the formalities, in a way 100 Cry of frustration 101 Aptly named Renault 102 Impudence 104 Superstore with wordless assembly instructions 105 Information unit 106 Baloney 107 Seven up, e.g. 110 Letters from school 111 Asian language 112 Egyptian viper 113 Like some humor