The Argonaut Newspaper — December 16, 2021

Transforming a Classic Sebastian Blue creates concept album of William Shakespeare’s “The Tempest”

Home. For the Holidays.

In 2021, we’ve helped over 300 families find homes in the local community.

CONTENTS LETTERS....................................... 3 OPINION..................................... 4 COMMUNITY.............................. 5 FOOD & DRINK.......................... 8 PAWRGONAUT........................... 9

SPORTS..................................... 10 BUSINESS................................. 11 COVER STORY.......................... 12 ARTS & EVENTS....................... 14 WESTSIDE HAPPENINGS........ 19 ADVICE GODDESS................... 22

PAGE 2 THE ARGONAUT DECEMBER 16, 2021

ON THE COVER: New Roads student Sebastian Blue created a concept album of William Shakespeare’s “The Tempest” during lockdown. Photo: Larry Hirshowitz. Design by Arman Olivares.

Local News & Culture

The Westside’s News Source Since 1971 CONTACT US (310) 822-1629 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 Contributing Writers: Bridgette M. Redman, Jenn McKee, Michele Robinson, Haley Beyer Editorial Interns: Holly Jenvey, Sebastian Lipstein ART Graphic Designers: Arman Olivares Kate Doll Staff Photographer: Chris Mortenson

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Sunset at Venice Beach.

Coronavirus by the numbers and local updates Compiled by Kamala Kirk Cases and deaths by neighborhood as of December 12: Culver City: 3,145 (deaths 117); Del Rey: 41 (deaths one); El Segundo: 1,173 (deaths 10); Marina del Rey: 765 (deaths four); Mar Vista: 3,129 (deaths 37); Palms: 3,636 (deaths 67); Playa del Rey: 198 (deaths one); Playa Vista: 945 (deaths 12); Santa Monica: 7,282 (deaths 196); Venice: 2,975 (deaths 19); Westchester: 3,864 (deaths 59) Total Westside cases: 27,153 Total Westside deaths: 523

Total confirmed cases in LA County: 1,547,042 Total deaths in LA County: 27,330 Total new cases as of December 12: 1,460 Total new deaths: 5 Hospitalizations: 707 Positivity rate (seven-day daily average): 1.13% Total number of people tested: 9,596,550 (Source: Los Angeles County Department of Public Health)

Protect our kids from the harms of tobacco Editor: Last month marked the American Cancer Society’s 46th annual Great American Smokeout, a day dedicated to helping people make a plan to quit tobacco. In California, 40,000 people will lose their lives to smoking-related diseases this year alone. As an oncology nurse practitioner, I see firsthand the deadly consequences of tobacco use on a daily basis.

That’s why it’s so important that the Los Angeles City Council acts swiftly to help protect kids from the harms of tobacco use.

Menthol, other candy- and fruit-flavored tobacco products are a key part of the tobacco industry’s shameful strategy to bait youth into a potential lifetime of addiction.

And unfortunately, it’s working.

Nearly 29 percent of California high

school students have used tobacco products. Flavors are the leading reason young people use tobacco products and perceive them as less harmful.

The LA City Council has the opportunity to help reverse these disturbing trends by ending the sale of all flavored tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, menthol cigarettes and flavored shisha.

Laura LaRose, NP

Los Angeles

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O P I N I O N :

P O W E R

T O

S P E A K

New Vibrations in Ocean Park

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found my home,” Kari told me.

“I was a teacher for 25 years, a career that gifted me a deeper understanding of the importance and value of story. I went from teaching a subject to discovering personal and universal truths through the sharing of our lived experiences.”

“How did you transition from that career to where you are now?” I asked. ”The pivotal decision in my life was moving to Los Angeles in 2006 and attending massage school. There I learned about the relationship between my spirit, my emotions and my physical body — simply put — our bodies tell our stories.

Our biology is our biography.

As a massage therapist I learned how our bodies reflect our stories and our life experiences.

My further studies in cranial sacral unwinding along with Jorei and Reiki, both traditional Japanese energy healing practices, I learned to acknowledge and honor the energies of people’s stories and to hold space for the energies to unfold and unwind. I became a subscriber to the understanding that everything is energy and our choices determine how our energy is expressed. I took what I learned and adapted it for the middle and high schoolers I taught.”

“I loved it,” she continued.

“Everything in my life seemed to have led me to do what I was doing. The school offered me the opportunity to work part-time with a couple of classes in the morning. That really opened the door to possibility. I found a retail location in Westwood and set up shop. It was wonderful. I sat in circle in the mornings with my students and sat in my crystal sanctuary in the afternoons. The Westwood location didn’t provide sustaining sales, but it did offer experience, community, and yes, the sharing of more stories! People were coming in and sharing their lives with me, and I shared mine with them. The combination of these two worlds felt magical.”

“And what brought you to my corner of the world?” I asked.

“I decided to make a move to a location that would offer me more exposure. I knew I wanted

PAGE 4 THE ARGONAUT DECEMBER 16, 2021

PHOTO CREDIT: DEBBY TUNKS

By Tim Tunks love living in my southeastern corner of Ocean Park. I enjoy a great walking neighborhood with century-old Craftsman houses, and nearby stores and small businesses. After 45 years here I’ve gotten to know several store and business owners, some of whom share occasional lunches with me in one of the interesting restaurants within a 10-minute walk. I frequently stick my head into some of the stores as I walk by just to tell them the joke or riddle of the day.

After Kari Morioka opened her KM Crystals Shop around the corner from my house, I stopped in to welcome her and introduce myself as a longtime neighbor who wanted her interesting shop to prosper as yet another local asset. Displaying hundreds of different crystal objects, some in their natural earthen matrixes and others crafted into lovely shapes, she has established something that is all so much more than just a fine gift shop.

My own relationship with crystals began when I built my first crystal set radio receiver with its tuning coil - a discarded toilet paper roll carefully wrapped with fine wire. It was my Cub Scout project nearly 70 years ago, and revealed the resonant properties crystals had as I adjusted the “cat’s whisker” for best reception.

I told Kari about how her crystalline environment warmed my heart with memories of my mother’s collection of natural crystals lined up on her windowsills. She smiled and said, ”You know, there’s so many different reasons that bring people into the shop. but they usually all comment on how good it feels in here. And that really means a lot to me.”

She became fascinated by crystals of all sorts not too long ago and developed a sensitivity to the energy they stimulate. A Hawaii native, she migrated east to earn two degrees from Harvard University, and then returned to her old high school.

Kari’s intent was to become a school counselor, but her former dean encouraged her to spend a few years teaching first.

“Gaining a taste of being with students on a daily basis, I

Kari Morioka is the owner of KM Crystals Shop in Santa Monica, which sells a wide variety of crystals from around the world. to be in Santa Monica, but didn’t know where. I was driving by one day and saw a sign on the building. I felt that my shop would complement what was already there. I moved in March last year on a Wednesday and the following Monday we had to close down due to the Safer-At-Home order.”

“I was granted the gift of time to set up and nurture the energy that I wanted to share with the public. By the time we opened our doors in July 2020 and people felt comfortable going out again, the shop felt good. It felt ready to be shared. The best advice I received in preparing to open was from my wife: ‘Nurture the consciousness of the shop. Everything else will fall in place.’ And that’s what I did and continue to do every day. I ask to be grounded in love, gratitude and service — to tune in to the energy of the shop and go from there.”

“And the crystals?”

“They, too, hold and tell stories. They are a vibrational expression of what happened millions of years ago. The wisdom they offer is nature’s gift to us. Some people are attuned to their energy, some simply love their beauty.

Whichever the case, there is a shared experience. Crystals assist us in returning to our natural state of love and well-being,” Kari explained.

Sensing a bit of skepticism in my manner, she added, “I have a friend, a scientist, who isn’t a believer in the metaphysical aspect of crystals. She had surgery and a mutual friend suggested using crystals as part of her rehab. She accepted my offer of a pairing of two crystals. Although she wouldn’t outright admit that the crystals played a part in her recovery, she did say that she noticed feeling better. Buy in or not, at the end of the day, the laws of nature will govern the flow of

energy.”

Over the course of several months I offered Kari some advice on lighting and display fixtures — design and lighting was my profession until I retired. We collaborated and it has been a most satisfying experience for both of us.

Kari added, “My community continues to expand and stories continue to be shared. It’s been an absolute joy getting to know the neighborhood personalities and learning their histories, especially you, Tim. And thanks to your creativity and expertise in lighting and design, the shop is beautifully illuminated and the crystals are uniquely displayed. I know the light that helps to show their beauty will ultimately expand the reach of the crystals’ stories and help people be with their own.”

KM Crystals Shop is located at 3006 Lincoln Boulevard, Santa Monica, 310-775-1285, kmcrystalshop.com

C O M M U N I T Y

Helping Dog Owners in Need

Karma Rescue receives $20,000 grant to keep pets and families together

By Kamala Kirk nimal Farm Foundation recently announced a $20,000 People and Pets Together Grant to Karma Rescue, a Santa Monica-based organization that provides education and advocacy to support pet retention. Animal Farm Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending breed restrictions and discrimination and moving communities forward.

The grant will primarily be used to support Project Coco, Karma Rescue’s outreach program that offers support to dog owners in need. Volunteers for the program bring food, help reinforce fences, build shelters and educate owners who need help in hard times. The project also helps pay for veterinary expenses - with the goal of keeping dogs out of shelters and in their homes.

“We found that we might rescue five dogs from the shelter, but the next week there would be seven

PHOTO COURTESY OF KARMA RESCUE

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Karma Rescue received a $20,000 People and Pets Together Grant which will primarily be used to support Project Coco, an outreach program that offers support to dog owners who are in need. more,” said Rande Levine, president of Karma Rescue.

“And while there were a number of organizations in our area

working on adoption, there was less focus on keeping dogs in their homes. It became clear that we needed to transition our

energy and resources to pet retention. Due to the pandemic, there is even more of a need now for this kind of service. This grant from Animal Farm Foundation will help us meet that need, and cope with the exponentially higher costs of veterinary care and other rising expenses.”

Levine launched Karma Rescue in 2003 after years of volunteering at shelters. The organization initially focused on rescuing dogs referred to as “pit bulls” from shelters and finding them adoptive homes.

“Karma Rescue shares our philosophy that you have to address the underlying racism and classism in communities if you want to keep people and pets together,” said Stacey Coleman, executive director of Animal Farm Foundation. “We are proud to support their approach to this work, which encompasses everything from covering vet bills to hands-on help, as well as

education.”

Animal Farm Foundation’s People and Pets Together Grant provides funds for services and policies that incorporate cooccurring animal and human support with the aim of reducing barriers to pet-retention. Those interested in applying for a grant should visit animalfarmfoundation.org/grants for more information.

“Most people truly love their pets and are in serious desperation when they bring them to a shelter,” Levine said. “They believe that the shelter will help their animal find a new home but, sadly, that is not always possible. We must do everything in our power to keep pets with their people and stop them from getting to the shelter door.”

Animal Farm Foundation animalfarmfoundation.org Karma Rescue karmarescue.org

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C O M M U N I T Y PHOTOS BY CHRIS MORTENSON

Joy on the Water

The 2021 Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade was a big success

By Kamala Kirk he 59th Annual Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade took place on Saturday, Dec. 11 and the theme was “Joy on the Water.” The event kicked off with fireworks followed by the parade. Cedars-Sinai Marina del Rey Hospital was the presenting sponsor for the boat parade.

This year’s grand marshals were Dr. Steven Krems, chief medical officer at Cedars-Sinai Marina Del Rey Hospital; and Joanne Laguna-Kennedy, vice president of hospital operations and chief operating officer at Cedars-Sinai Marina Del Rey Hospital.

The boat parade judges were Michael Rosenfeld, Commodore at Del Rey Yacht Club; Tony Palermo, co-owner of Tony P’s Dockside Grill; Rae Lamothe, chair of the Board of Directors for LAX Coastal Chamber of Commerce; Cody Koopmann, senior lead property manager with Drollinger Properties; and Garrett Smith, owner of Communications a la Carte.

On Dec. 12, an awards ceremony for the Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade was hosted at the Santa Monica Windjammers Yacht Club, where attendees viewed a photo slide presentation of all entries and enjoyed a buffet.

“I would like to thank all the participants this year, we had more first-time entries than ever,” said Kelly King, MDRHS president.

“There were so many beautifully decorated boats, our judges had a really hard time with their decisions. We look forward to our 60th anniversary next year.”

David Ross added, “Here at Boat Parade Central, we want to thank all the participants who brought their boats and lights out for the 59th Annual Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade. With a record 67 entries, the holiday season was kicked off in style here in Marina del Rey. Special thank you to our Presenting Sponsor Cedars-Sinai Marina Del Rey Hospital and our Captain Sponsor Toyota of Marina Del Rey. We are sending our list of nice folks to Santa and getting ready for our 60th Marina del Rey Boat Parade on Dec. 10, 2022. Finally, thank you to the 30,000-plus people who came to watch and made this the best parade yet. Happy holidays, be safe and happy New Year from all of us at the Marina del Rey Boat Parade.”

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The Winners Best Overall: #19 Nosso Lar, Pacific Mariners Yacht Club Best Power: #52 Weekend Hooker, Bruce Taguchi Best Sail: #33 Ellis Island II, Peter Ellis Best Yacht Club: #45 Let’s Go, Craig & Gisele Melone Best Individual: #60 Stiletto, Payam Manavi Best Company: #72 TowBoat U.S. Marina del Rey, Gabriel Roletti Best Organization: #61 Betty-O, Marina del Rey Anglers Best Charter: #39 Hotel California, Michael Sullivan 1st Place Theme: #18 Social Distancing, Deryk Howard 2nd Place Theme: #26 Mystic, Charlie Hentges 1st Place Lights: #7 Love the Journey, Richard & Julie Kulis 2nd Place Lights: #4 Zen, James Richards 1st Place Spirit: #6 Ellen, Bill Bracken 2nd Place Spirit: #15 The Anniebells, Adam Singer 1st Place Animation: #3 Southern Cross, Bria White 2nd Place Animation: #34 Charles Hathaway, Tommy Stiansen 1st Place Music: #10 Macondo, Mike Sudo 2nd Place Music: #62 Reyna Del Mar, Manuel & Angie 1st Place Band: #43 Phish Tales, John Reese 2nd Place Band: #48 Boundless, Susan Lord Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade mdrboatparade.org

#52 Weekend Hooker took home the award for Best Power.

The winner of Best Overall was #19 Nosso Lar (Pacific Mariners Yacht Club).

The boat parade kicked off with a stunning fireworks show.

Eileen Gonzales, boat parade judge Garrett Smith and Lauren Palermo at the Del Rey Yacht Club.

PAGE 6 THE ARGONAUT DECEMBER 16, 2021

Kelly King, Joanne Laguna-Kennedy and Dr. Steven Krems pose for a portrait before taking a dingy out to their judges boat.

Jillian Bray and Jake David of the Coast Guard before the MDR Boat Parade judging begins.

C O M M U N I T Y

Clean Your Closet for Charity

Support Flair Cleaners’ 19th Annual Holiday Clothing and Shoe Drive

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to the San Fernando Valley Rescue Mission and Helping Hands for the Blind.

“While 2021 has seen us resume many of our normal activities, many of our neighbors are still struggling to make ends meet,” said Gary Futterman, owner of Flair Cleaners. “As we prepare to celebrate during this holiday season, there is no better time to remember and help our neighbors. Please take some time to clean your closets for charity and donate to our 19th Annual Holiday Clothing and Shoe Drive.”

Flair Cleaners 720 Montana Avenue, Santa Monica 310-395-9354 flaircleaners.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF FLAIR CLEANERS

By Kamala Kirk et a head start on that spring cleaning and help others in need this season by donating new or gently used clothing, shoes and accessories to Flair Cleaners’ 19th Annual Holiday Clothing and Shoe Drive.

Through Dec. 31, Flair Cleaners is collecting all types of clothing in all sizes, along with accessories such as gloves, scarves, hats, belts and purses. They also need shoes, jeans and other denim products, rain gear and work clothes. Delicate will not be accepted and remember to empty all pockets before donating.

Customers and community members can donate at Flair Cleaners’ Santa Monica location. Pickup and delivery customers may leave a clearly marked bag out with their orders. Donations will be given

Through Dec. 31, Flair Cleaners is collecting new and gently used clothing and shoes in good condition for their 19th Annual Holiday Clothing and Shoe Drive.

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F O O D

&

D R I N K

Brand Refresh

Groundwork Coffee reveals new website and package designs

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for is being part of the communities where our stores exist so that everyone who comes in feels comfortable.”

As for Groundwork’s new website, “We tried to flatten it,” Smith said. “Before, there was a lot of clicking you had to do, because everything was separated.

To shop, there were too many steps to go through. The intention with the new site was to put the shopping experience right on the home page. We also created a very detailed system, so if you do know what you want, you’ll go right to it, but if you don’t know, you can select certain filters, which make the experience more user-friendly, and also lighter and more approachable.”

Remarkably, Groundwork’s “brand refresh” has already won a Coffee Design Award in the Specialty Coffee Association’s branding category; but because of the pandemic, the path was long and sometimes rocky.

“The number one challenge has been supply issues,” Smith said.

“We’d identify some stamp we wanted to use, and then we’d hear it’s going to be a year before we can get our hands on it, or that the cost of something is now three times the original price. We had to find solutions, because our first priority was offering high quality organic coffee with a reasonable price point.”

Perhaps to emphasize this point even further, Groundwork Coffee is also continuing its new Limited Reserve program, which twice a year showcases a premium organic coffee alongside a local talent from the art world.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF GROUNDWORK COFFEE

By Jenn McKee enice’s Groundwork Coffee, which bills itself as “the original organic LA-based coffee shop,” has been celebrating its 30th year by getting some work done.

Specifically, Groundwork’s two-years-in-the-making “brand refresh” – designed in collaboration with the branding agency Ludlow Kingsley – centers on a new, more user-friendly website; and packaging that’s more aligned, aesthetically and ecologically, with Groundwork’s core values.

“Our old look wasn’t successful in communicating what we stand for as a brand, so we wanted to make it more clear to our customers and to new audiences as well,” said Jessica Smith, Groundwork VP of marketing.

That mission involves sourcing high-quality organic coffee and tea, working toward environmental sustainability whenever possible, and supporting local communities. With all this in mind, Groundwork’s new packaging uses vibrant earth tones on eco-friendly materials, including Biotrē bags – which break down into healthy compost and are made from 60% renewable, plant-based resources by weight.

Plus, the image of a hand alongside a sprouting flower in the soil suggests the intersection of humans and the environment, and Groundwork’s stewardship approach.

“I think one of the most important things about Groundwork is that it’s not elitist,” Smith said.

“There’s not this ‘coffee snob’ mentality. What we really stand

Groundwork Coffee recently announced the reveal of a new website and package designs for its line of Certified Organic coffees and teas. comes from Julia Ortega Carballo, whose farm, Finca Los Pinos, is the first certified carbon neutral farm in Mexico. (Fruits of the coffee cherries are either repurposed into soil additives for next year’s harvest or processed into jams.) The coffee’s packaging features the work of LA artist Sonia Romero.

“We started this program in 2021,” Smith said. “We used to do some coffees in small lots, but that wasn’t a consistent option in our portfolio. This year, we wanted to do something special, and do some kind of partnership that would support local artists.”

Carballo’s limited-edition blend – her entry into this year’s Mexico’s Cup of Excellence competition – will likely sell out

quickly, but Groundwork’s more standard offerings seem destined to become far more widely available.

Groundwork opened its doors in Venice Beach in 1990. New Groundwork cafés continue to open across the West Coast; the company’s two busy roasteries (in Los Angeles and Portland) are humming along. Groundwork has a growing line of cold brew coffees and its product will earn a spot on grocery stores’ shelves.

“We’re slowly making our way East,” Smith said. “…With retailers like The Fresh Market and Fresh Thyme, it will be our first time ever in the Midwest.

These are brand new places for Groundwork.”

But frankly, it’s already impres-

sive – in a Little Engine That Could way – that Groundwork Coffee has grown and thrived for 30 years, at a time when a fervent coffee connoisseurship culture has taken hold.

“We really believe in relationships,” Smith said. “…If you’re a good partner, and you’re consistent in what you do, and what you stand for – that’s why we’ve maintained a foothold for so long…We just make a great product, and we make it a fun experience. Coffee is joyful, and it should be accessible to everyone.”

Groundwork Coffee groundworkcoffee.com

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DECEMBER 16, 2021 THE ARGONAUT PAGE 9

S P O R T S

We Are the Champions

Venice High School’s girls varsity volleyball team wins championship

By Michele Robinson he Venice High School girls varsity volleyball team has a lot to cheer about these days.

VHS won the Los Angeles City Championship and is proudly taking home the gold trophy this year. VHS, the underdog team, shattered the long-standing Palisades High winning streak, which they held since 2010. This is the first time in the school’s history to win this title.

“It felt amazing,” said Avia Yosef, VHS senior and varsity team player.

And what an amazing year they had, overcoming many challenges and hardships along the way.

“Every time we faced adversity we had the mental fortitude to know we could get through anything together,” said Coach Raul Aviles.

For starters, they were impacted

by COVID-19, as some of the team members ended up contracting it. Due to the pandemic they couldn’t practice together for almost a year. This made it mentally and physically challenging because many were not motivated to practice at home and had to retrain to get back into athletic shape.

“Volleyball keeps me fit mentally and physically happy,” Yosef said.

When the team could finally practice together, it was very difficult because they had to do it in late July during the heat of the summer, outside on the grass.

They also had to train wearing masks, which restricted their airflow and oxygen intake. Many ended up with a partial mask tan on their faces as well.

Other problems that plagued the team included injuries. One teammate broke her foot and was unable to play for the entire season. Two other members had sprained ankles and several others ended up with concussions.

“We had to adjust to the pace so quickly, the expectations were really high,” Yosef said. “We had to show up and just do it.”

Another thing that sets the VHS team apart from others is that most of the players on the team are minority students who don’t come from affluent or privileged backgrounds, and many of them

PHOTOS CREDIT: NICOLE MICHE

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Venice High School’s girls varsity volleyball team recently won the Los Angeles City Championship couldn’t afford the private clubs that their counterpart teammates at other schools utilized.

“In most teams, the girls have been in private clubs since they were young and had a head start in getting superior skills,” said Colette Brown, Yosef’s mother.

“Venice did not have this advantage, not everybody can afford it. Some of our girls only started playing in 9th grade.”

Out of 53 games, VHS won 49 - 4. Out of those four losses, three were to teams they had beaten before such as Palisades High School, Culver City High School and La Salle College Preparatory High School. In order to achieve this high level of success, the team needed to practice a lot. They practiced every day from the last period in school until 5 p.m., which came to three to four hours a day.

Then they practiced during the summer from 6 to 9 a.m., five days a week. If they missed the summer practice, they might not play that much in the fall.

“It was highly competitive and we had to be a well-trained team,” Yosef said.

The team attributed their success to the support and motivation of their teamwork, coaches Aviles and Allen Hunt, and supportive parents.

PAGE 10 THE ARGONAUT DECEMBER 16, 2021

“This year was a fantastic season,” Aviles said. “The reason for the team’s success ranges from a number of things. From having a few players who had played varsity as freshman to having all team members on the same page. Those players were not only highly motivated to learn and grow, but be good teammates. There was also tremendous support from our community; as the team grew so did our support from parents and families to more student fans at matches - even alumni were able to come out and support.”

Aviles, head coach for the varsity team this year, has a

coaching style that works very well with this team that has been together for four years.

“Coach Raul saw the talent and developed it,” Brown said. “He believed in the team, got them to practice. They got more from him than a club.”

Another advantage the VHS girls volleyball team has is their strong bond of camaraderie and teamwork. The teammates are close friends on and off the court. They hang out and have classes together, and enjoy group activities like going to the beach and bowling.

“They all pull together, it’s a ‘we got this’ attitude that is

amazing,” Brown said. “They are like sisters and not all teams have that.”

The support from parents also played an important role in the success of the team. The parents were always getting up early to take the team members to practices and games.

After all of the adversity VHS faced along with the hard work, perseverance and solidarity it took to win, they are excited and proud to be City Champions.

Keep up with the team’s progress on Instagram (@venicevolleyball).

“This is a great comeback story,” Yosef said.

VHS also beat the previously undefeated Palisades High School girls volleyball team in a historic league match.

B U S I N E S S

Making Spirits Bright

SAINT Candles opens in Santa Monica

By Haley Beyer ra DeWitt, a music executive with a PhD in education, had a friend whose son was diagnosed with a life-threatening illness. DeWitt wanted to come up with a unique gift so she created spiritual candles, which were a big hit, and SAINT Candles was ultimately born.

In October, DeWitt hosted a grand opening for her new Santa Monica store on Montana Avenue, which was also a benefit for the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The guest list included celebrities such as Cedric the Entertainer, comedian Heather McDonald and TV personality Audrina Patridge.

“I am so grateful for the connections I have made to help me launch this company and get me to the point of opening our first store,” DeWitt said.

DeWitt knew that opening in Santa Monica would really help establish the brand.

“Santa Monica has a little bit of everything,” DeWitt said. “Our unique concept fits into the area and it’s a cozy neighborhood vibe with a cool twist.”

DeWitt’s husband, William DeWitt III, is president of the St. Louis Cardinals. When a child with brain cancer wanted to connect with the Cardinals, DeWitt knew that she wanted to do more for other children in similar situations. It was through this experience that she learned about St. Jude, and she eventually formed a long-term partnership with the hospital.

DeWitt’s most popular products are the SAINT Candles. The modern prayer candles are each named after a patron saint of the Catholic church and each saint is associated with a specific aspect of human life. The first candle DeWitt created was the Saint of Impossible Causes for her work with St. Jude. There are 15 candles in the line, each with a special meaning.

“Each SAINT Candle comes with a prayer to the patron saint, holy oil as part of the wax, and a prayer coin embedded into the candle to help guide the person on their specific journey,” DeWitt said.

Before lighting the candle, the prayer to the patron of the saint

PHOTO CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES

I

SAINT Candles recently opened a new location in Santa Monica on Montana Avenue. should be read out loud. The holy oil has been blessed by both a priest and a rabbi. The coin is revealed after the candle has burned all the way down and can be kept in one’s wallet, purse, car or anywhere safe. It can also be buried in one’s backyard for a household blessing, Because the candles hold such strong spiritual power, they had to be created with pure and clean ingredients. They are made from food grade wax with a soy coconut blend and are free of harmful chemicals. Every detail of the candle works toward its purpose.

“There is no intention behind other candles,” DeWitt said.

“These ones are created with spirituality in mind and the money goes to a good cause.”

SAINT Candles has promised to give 10% of all proceeds to St. Jude to support their lifesaving mission of finding cures and saving children. St. Jude covers the cost of all medical bills of the children so the families can direct 100% of their focus on the child and their recovery. So far, SAINT Candles has raised over $105,000 for St. Jude. The money will help the only

National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center devoted solely to children by providing treatments invented at St. Jude to push the childhood cancer survival rate from 20 to 80% since the opening of the hospital more than 50 years ago.

The SAINT Candle line is available at the store in addition to roll-on perfumes, room sprays with holy oil, body creams, soaps, sanitizers and CBD products. SAINT Candles plans to continue expanding to get its message to a wider audience, but for now its focus is helping others, especially those at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

“My hope is to continue sharing the benefits of the products while fundraising as much as possible for St. Jude,” DeWitt said.

To join the St. Jude mission, visit stjude.org.

SAINT Candles 1327 Montana Avenue, Santa Monica 747-206-5393 saintcandles.com

Audrina Patridge joined SAINT Candles owner, Ira DeWitt, at the store’s grand opening and benefit for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

DECEMBER 16, 2021 THE ARGONAUT PAGE 11

C O V E R

S T O R Y

Transforming a Classic Sebastian Blue creates concept album of William Shakespeare’s “The Tempest” PHOTO CREDIT: LARRY HIRSHOWITZ

Del Rey resident Sebastian Blue is a senior at New Roads School and a local music performer who received a full-tuition scholarship to Berklee School of Music in Boston for next year.

By Bridgette M. Redman ebastian Blue wasn’t about to let a pandemic slow him down from creating and getting the most out of his high school experience. A sophomore when his school sent students home in 2020, he is now a senior and launching several parts of his multi-year project — an album and stage production of a de-colonized “Tempest” by William Shakespeare.

His recorded album — done in collaboration with artists around the world — was released on all streaming media on Black Friday. The hour-long concept album called “Full Fathom Five” has 13 tracks that Blue did as part of an independent study project with New Roads School in Santa Monica.

Blue, a Del Rey resident,

S

performs throughout the area and recently received a fulltuition scholarship to the Berklee School of Music in Boston. He started the Shakespeare project in March 2020 just as lockdown was beginning.

“On March 13, we were told to leave and never come back,” Blue said. “That day I bought my very first electronic piano. I had been playing piano for 12 years and never owned a keyboard. The head of the school said, ‘Find a project to do with your life,’ so I bought a keyboard and I wrote an EP for myself.”

Blue said he had been playing music all his life, but this marked the beginning of his journey into creating music. He would take his keyboard out to local parks, the marina, Westchester restaurants and the beach

PAGE 12 THE ARGONAUT DECEMBER 16, 2021

so he could share his music and listen to the ocean.

Project morphs into retelling of Shakespeare Then the school announced that any sophomores, juniors or seniors could do an independent study project where they could create whatever they wanted and use school resources. Many of Blue’s fellow students wrote papers, but he wanted to go in a different direction and create an album.

As for the choice of story, Blue said “The Tempest” has long been a favorite of his. When he was 10 or 11, he was really into magic tricks so his father took him to see a production of “The Tempest” in which Raymond Teller from Penn and Teller was performing as Prospero.

“This production had magic tricks and live music, it was so amazing,” Blue said. “I’m not sure I knew what it was about, but it was so cool to look at.”

Later, he learned that his dad had a shared love for the play and used it as his thesis in journalism school. Blue approached his English teacher, whom he knew was a Shakespeare scholar, and told him he wanted to do a concept album on “The Tempest.”

Themes pull artist up short Not everything went smoothly at first. Blue started to write the music and re-read the script. As he dove into it, he realized that there was a lot of pro-colonialism in the story.

“I don’t want to advocate for

colonizing countries and owning slaves — and those are the good guys,” Blue said. “So, I sat back and took a break.”

During the detour, he turned to one of his teachers who was a priest of Santero, also known as Lukumi, an African-based religion brought from Yoruba to Cuba. Blue reached out for help on a song he wrote that he was supposed to play at the school’s jazz festival which was canceled because of the pandemic.

They read through several books of songs belonging to Lukumi and there was one where the words perfectly fit his melody. Each of the religion’s songs belong to a particular deity or spirit and have their own rhythms and songs. The one that jumped out to Blue was about a particular orisha named Eshu. Orisha are the spirits and

ArgonautNews.com PHOTO CREDIT: MIRIAM BILLINGTON

As part of his school’s Independent Study Project program, Blue spent over a year working on “Full Fathom Five,” a 13-track concept album that puts a fresh musical spin on William Shakespeare. scene where Prospero is putting on a wedding play for Miranda and Ferdinand. In Shakespeare’s version, Roman gods make an appearance. In Cesaire’s version, the deity was Eshu.

“That was the deity of the song I had just spent two weeks on,” Blue said. “It all aligns. It’s not like he is that well-known. I was so surprised. That kind of started me off. Since then, I have worked with over 60 musicians in over a dozen different countries and all around Los Angeles.”

Group project takes on international flair Blue’s collaborations range from West Africa and Brazil to the Caribbean, Mexico, South Africa and Asia. He sought out like-minded people who wanted to help him tell the story and they met on Zoom, speaking seven different languages, and created together.

Contributors included Moyi Mbourangon — or Martial Pa’Nucci — a West African

rapper who spoke to Blue from his exile in Burkina Faso and a trio of Mexican musicians who speak a rare Mayan dialect.

The project took nearly a year.

The 13 tracks on the record mix genres — much, Blue said, the way that the colonial word mixes cultures. Songs are done in the styles of classical choir, Latin jazz, traditional religious percussion, folk rock, spiritual, indie rock, Afrobeat, Mayan/ English/Congolese/French rap, Chicago-style hip hop, singersongwriter, poetry, opera/musical theater, contemporary classical, salsa, orchestral and sea shanty.

“The through line is that I wanted it to feel like it is all heart music,” Blue said. “It is all honest music, whatever culture it comes from. It is performed from the heart, just pouring your heart into your violin or drums or your guitar.”

The lyrics are more interpretative than a straightforward narrative. Blue said he took inspiration from “Spring Awakening” and the way it used lyrics.

With the album complete, Blue began another independent study project. At the end of this school year, he will have put the show on stage — performing set design, lighting design, costuming, music design and casting.

The title of the album and the stage version comes from the character Ariel, whom Blue turned into more of a narrator voice. In the original, Ariel sings to Ferdinand, telling him that his father is dead: “Full fathom five thy father lies; of his bones are coral made; those are pearls that were his eyes: nothing of him that doth fade but doth suffer a sea-change into something rich and strange.”

It was a lyric that Blue felt works in multiple ways.

“It’s the first song of the album,” Blue said. “When I heard that, I was working with these Caribbean and African musicians and I couldn’t help but think of the transatlantic slave trade. ‘Your father is dead beneath the ocean’ reminded me of all the bodies that were thrown overboard. I chose that to be the central focus.”

Caliban, the “monster” who is enslaved by Prospero, also undergoes a transformation. His story is told with music that pays homage to Black American music and African music — all of which is performed on the album by musicians with those origins. The lyrics he uses in Caliban’s songs object to his

being named ‘devil monster’ and called wicked.

Album helps to say goodbye While Blue is deep into writing the script for his project, he is also preparing to leave LA to go away to college.

“Over the past couple months, I’ve been mourning that loss,” Blue said. “This is an amazing place and I’ve found so many people to work with here. It is such a melting pot that I couldn’t get anywhere else.”

However, Blue also said that he’s ready to find new places in the world. The last lyrics on the record are: “And after all, I’m going home, heading toward new horizons.”

“It’s pretty much Prospero telling Ariel that he is going back to his hometown,” Blue said. “But for me, I turned it on its head and I am going to be finding my own home. This was Shakespeare’s last play. This is my first, my opening soiree into the world. I am picking up and going out, leaving home and saying goodbye.”

While the live production at his school will be an abbreviated version because of all Blue has to juggle, he said he would love to someday turn this into a full-length production.

“For now, I’m just a high school kid,” Blue said.”

Sebastian Blue sebastianblue.net PHOTO CREDIT: JULIAN LOPEZ-ALBANY

deities of Lukumi.

The words that fit his melody described bowing down to pray, a simple but devout prayer. Blue asked the priest to record a percussion part for the song.

While they were working on that, Blue heard back from his English teacher who had a resource that he thought would help him get through his block.

The resource was a book called “A Tempest” by Aime Cesaire, a Martinique playwright who rewrote the play to be performed by a troupe of Black actors and to excise the themes of colonialism in it. Written in 1969, it is infused with Garvian ideology of Black liberation and Caribbean French-speaking literature and poetry.

“I was reading it and it was the craziest thing I’d seen,” Blue said. “This is what I want to do.

He decolonized the themes of ‘The Tempest.’ This was perfect and I want to do this with music.”

Then he found a further surprise that cemented his connection to it. He got to the

Album to take the stage

To create his album, Blue collaborated with artists from other countries including a West African rapper and a trio of Mexican musicians.

DECEMBER 16, 2021 THE ARGONAUT PAGE 13

A R T S

&

E V E N T S

Gorgeous Glass

Artist specializes in mosaics of Westside landscapes PHOTOS COURTESY OF CAROL DAVIS

Carol Davis is a local mosaic artist who specializes in capturing landscapes and nature in the Santa Monica area.

By Bridgette M. Redman arol Davis knows that no two people will see the same thing in her artwork, but one thing she does hope for is that it will bring every viewer some taste of happiness and joy.

Davis is a mosaic artist who specializes in capturing landscapes and nature in the Santa Monica area. She takes photographs while she is out hiking or even driving around town and then transforms those photos into glass mosaic pieces of art.

“I start with an image that I’ve taken and I love to see how glass transforms it,” Davis said. “I never quite know. I have an idea, but it always kind of amazes me, especially after I grout it and the image pops out. Then the color choices are just incredible.”

Art is something that has always been in Davis’ life. Her father was an impressionist painter who used to take Davis to museums and explain paintings to her, pointing out perspectives and colors, and helping her to engage deeply with the art.

When she was five, her father took a painting she’d made in school of a butterfly and put it in his art show.

C

“It was just a painting I did at school,” Davis said. “He inspired me by loving the painting and putting it in his show. I was like, ‘Really? You want my painting?’”

Path traveled from collages to mosaics She spent 10 years in San Francisco doing collage arts, building paintings from photos she found in old magazines from the 1940s and 1950s.

“They were kind of fun and kitschy,” Davis said.

She took a break from art for a while so she could raise her daughter. Then one day, she came across a mosaic class on Groupon. It was a weekend class and after attending it, she decided she was going to go for it.

Davis began to develop her own process for what she calls “painting with glass.” It starts with a photo which she sizes and then draws a picture of on wood.

On a separate piece of paper, she tries out different colors with paint. She cuts large sheets of colorful glass into small pieces.

She then begins placing them on the wood drawing, cutting

PAGE 14 THE ARGONAUT DECEMBER 16, 2021

shapes as she goes and then gluing them into place.

Once glass covers the entire drawing, she mixes and applies grout. After 20 minutes, she wipes the grout off and frames the piece.

Trees inspire Davis’ work. They make up the bulk of Davis’ inspiration and the art work that she does. She especially likes cypress trees because they remind her of her youth. When she’s looking for trees to photograph, she’ll notice the shadows and shapes and the way they can be transformed in her art.

“I like using shadows on things, especially hills,” Davis said. “I can really play with light logic — where is the sun coming from? Is it the upper right side?

The left side? That means that a tree or a trunk is going to be lighter on certain parts and darker on certain parts. That’s how you make two-dimensional objects three-dimensional, by manipulating the colors.”

The tree’s shape also speaks to her— the way one limb will go in one direction and another in a different direction.

“Trees are so strong and literally grounded and the roots

go so deep,” Davis said. “They seem kind of wise. What have they seen? What eras have they been through?”

Artist takes photos as she hikes and drives Will Rogers Park is a favorite destination of Davis’ when looking for places to create photos for her work. It has a trail with a lot of eucalyptus trees that she really likes. At other times, even a sidewalk can capture her attention, especially the perspective created by a tree-lined path.

Davis spent some time in landscape design awhile back, focusing on sustainable design, which is what still draws her to landscapes. One time she was walking in an alley behind her house and saw a low wall with a weed growing out of it. It fascinated her and she ended up creating a mosaic of that.

“Sometimes I’m just driving around and I’ll pull over to photograph anything beautiful,” Davis said.

At other times, she’ll use photos that other people took and build upon them. One of her favorite pieces is called “Gus.” It’s larger than her usual work

and was created from an image of a dog wearing a gas mask in World War I. “First, this is very sad that dogs go to war,” Davis said. “But second, they designed a gas mask for this dog, so there is some nurturing in there.”

She liked the shape of it and in the background she put a tree to offer a taste of optimism.

“There is some hope there,” Davis said. “There is a tree growing behind this dog with a gas mask. It just seemed hopeful, but also poignant.”

Davis’ studio is in her converted garage and recently she hosted a show in her backyard.

She made a lot of mosaics for the show and hopes people will consider them for themselves or for gifts. She describes them as a hunk of joy that you can hang on your wall.

“I want them to make people happy,” Davis said. “I’m biased because I made them, but when I look at them, they make me happy.”

Absolute Mosaics

by Carol Davis absolutemosaics.com

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Trees make up the bulk of Davis’ inspiration and her art work, and Will Rogers Park is a favorite destination of hers when looking for places to create photos.

DECEMBER 16, 2021 THE ARGONAUT PAGE 15

GORGEOUS MEDITERRANEAN IN CULVER CITY

“Newer construction home with 5-bedrooms and a detached 1-bedroom guest house in downtown Culver City,” say agents Kelley and Todd Miller. “This beautiful home has an open great room design with a large living room with hardwood floors, recessed lighting and custom tile fireplace. The gourmet kitchen with wood cabinetry, professional grade appliances, pantry and a large center island with counter seating, opens to the spacious formal dining area. Glass doors open to the covered patio and huge backyard. The detached guest house has its own private yard, full kitchen, an office, a bedroom, and a separate entrance to the street. The incredible location in the center of downtown Culver City offers city living at its best, a stone’s throw to shops, coffee, restaurants, theaters and nightlife. Lafayette Place is the premier street opening to Culver City’s restaurant row, Kirk Douglas Theater, the new Culver Steps and new Amazon studios.”

PAGE 16 AT HOME – THE ARGONAUT’S REAL ESTATE SECTION DECEMBER 16, 2021

Offered at $2,625,000 I N F O R M AT I O N :

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In Escrow 1260 W 81st St, South LA 2 bed | 1 bath Coming Soon

8238 W Manchester Ave #407, Playa Del Rey

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In Escrow 1734 Bel Air Rd, Bel Air 5 bed | 6 bath | $3,495,000 Spectacular Panoramic Views

In Escrow 7918 Kenyon Ave, Westchester 5 bed | 3 bath | $2,495,000 Modern luxury with Timeless Style

Just Sold 7101 Playa Vista Dr #109, Playa Vista

3 bed | 2.5 bath | $1,150,000 Modern Deluxe Townhome

8000 Dunbarton Ave, Westchester 5 bed | 5.5 bath | $4,295,000 Coastal Vibes for the Holidays

In Escrow 1015 S Gramercy Dr, Windsor Square

4 bed | 2 bath | $1,199,000 Traditional California Craftsman

2641 Glendon Ave, Rancho Park 3 bed | 3 bath | $1,649,000 Indoor-Outdoor Living

3720 Hughes Ave #5, Palms 3 bed | 3 bath | $799,400 Multi-Level Condo

In Escrow

In Escrow 7054 W 85th St, Westchester 3 bed | 1 bath | $1,049,000 Traditional Ranch in Loyola Village

In Escrow 16900 Gault St, Lake Balboa 3 bed | 1.5 bath | $699,000 Traditional and Timeless

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Just Sold 4920 S Centinela Ave, Mar Vista 2 bed | 2 bath | $1,108,000 Bungalow in Silicon Beach

6516 W 83rd St, Westchester 3 bed | 1 bath | $1,049,000 Spacious Retreat

2528 N Via Artis, Elysian Heights 4 bed | 3 bath | $1,049,000 Tri-Level Retreat

In Escrow 4733 La Villa Marina #F, Marina del Rey

3 bed | 2.5 bath | $1,149,000 Tri-Level End Unit Townhome

In Escrow 8336 Bleriot Ave, Westchester 4 bed | 3 bath | $1,499,000 Traditional Ranch with ADU

FIND YOUR PLACE Stephanie Younger Group 310.499.2020 | DRE 01365696 stephanieyounger.com | @stephanieyoungergroup Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01991628. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified.

Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate. If your property is currently listed for sale this is not a solicitation.

DECEMBER 16, 2021 AT HOME – THE ARGONAUT’S REAL ESTATE SECTION PAGE 17

Era Matilla rEalty 225 CulvEr Blvd.

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“Located in the impressive Icon community, this gorgeous home has arguably the most sought after floor plan in Playa Vista,” says agent Tami Humphrey. “This 3,233 sq ft home with a modern exterior offers 4BD/5BA and private 2 car garage.

As you walk in you are greeted by beautiful wood flooring leading to an open living, dining room and kitchen that flows out to a gorgeous patio perfect for indoor/outdoor living. The first floor also includes a bedroom and full bathroom.”

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“Beautifully renovated 3BA/2BA, freestanding patio home has a private two-car garage, ” says agent Jesse Weinberg. “This sun-drenched home boasts white oak wood floors, LED lighting, new HVAC, custom built-ins, vaulted ceilings, and more. The chef's kitchen offers quartz counter-tops, tile backsplash, custom cabinetry and fixtures, SS appliances, and an oversized island. The bright and spacious living and dining rooms open to a private wrap-around patio/yard. Upstairs the primary suite offers vaulted ceilings, a walk-in closet, and a spa-like bath with dual vanity and an oversized shower.”

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The Argonaut has you covered.

Call Rebecca Bermudez at 310-463-0633 or rebecca@argonautnews.com

THE ARGONAUT REAL ESTATE BUSINESS NEWS

10 Tips for Creating a Calmer, More Peaceful Home Your home should be your sanctuary, but sometimes it’s hard to brush off the stress of the day and sink into the serenity. Use these tips to create a space that’s soothing, so, no matter what the day holds, you always have an inviting place to come home to.

Add some greenery Studies have shown that plants can make your home feel calmer and ease anxiety. Plants like jasmine and English ivy can improve sleep, lavender and rosemary can lower stress, and several other plants have been shown to improve air quality so you breathe easier.

Hide the electronics “Nobody wants to stare at a tangle of cords,” said Houzz. “Thankfully, we have more options than ever for keeping our tech devices hidden away. When possible, choose smaller, wireless devices that look less obtrusive even when left out in the open.

Get a dog Or a cat, or a bird for that matter. Yes, having a pet can mean more noise and more mess. But, there are studies that show that having a pet lowers stress.

“Researchers found that pet-owning patients with high blood pressure could keep their blood pressure lower during times of mental stress than patients without pets,” said AnimalSmart.org.

Clear the clutter

color, consider shades of blues and greens—two colors that are known to be more serene than, say bright yellow, orange, or red.

Clean up your entryway It’s the first place guests see, and while you probably don’t pass by or through your front entry all that often if you park in the garage, it may not feel as welcoming as you’d like when you do.

Going all Marie Kondo on your home can have surprising effects on your mental state. “Clutter can play a significant role in how we feel about our homes, our workplaces, and ourselves,” said psychologist Sherrie Bourg Carter in Psychology Today.

“Messy homes and work spaces leave us feeling anxious, helpless, and overwhelmed.”

Soften the lighting

Tone down the harsh colors

“Opt for solids and subtle patterns,” said Houzz. “Busy patterns have their place, but if you’re aiming for calm, then solid fabrics are your friends”

There’s something to be said for going bold, but soft colors can bring on a calming feeling. If you want a deeper

PAGE 18 AT HOME – THE ARGONAUT’S REAL ESTATE SECTION DECEMBER 16, 2021

Harsh overhead lighting can make you feel like you’re being interrogated, and can also be hard on your eyes. If you need to keep it because the space will be too dark otherwise, a dimmer can at least give you some control over just how bright it is.

Limit the patterns

Buy some fresh flowers According to a study by Rutgers, “The presence of flowers trigger happy emotions, heightens feelings of life satisfaction and affects social behavior in a positive way far beyond what was originally believed.”

Make your master bedroom a zen zone Getting good rest is key, and there are several ways you can create a soothing space. Keeping the colors serene is key, and so is a good mattress. Loading the bed up with soft textures can also help. “The sensation of touch is often overlooked, but a powerful way to unwind,” said Mass.gov.

THIS WEEK’S CONTRIBUTION CAME FROM:

Bob & Cheryl Herrera, Professional Real Estate Services 310-306-5427 DRE: 00910858 DRE: 01332794

WESTSIDE HAPPENINGS Compiled by Kamala Kirk

Holiday Snow Flurries at The Point Friday, Dec. 17 Magical snow flurries will be happening on Fridays and Saturdays at The Point every 30 minutes from 6 to 8 p.m. through Dec. 23 (plus every night from Dec. 20 to 23). They will take place on the grass.

850 S. Pacific Coast Highway, El Segundo, 6 to 8 p.m., thepointsb.com Marina del Rey Farmers Market, Saturday, Dec. 18 This weekly outdoor event allows Westside residents to support local produce sellers and other vendors. Food from a wide variety of businesses is available for purchase. Masks are required and only 40 people are allowed to shop at any one time. Held in parking lot 11.

14101 Panay Way, Marina del Rey, 8 to 9 a.m. (seniors), 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (general public), beaches.lacounty.gov/ mdrfarmersmarket Downtown Walking Tour Saturday, Dec. 18 Explore the architecture and history of Downtown Santa Monica in a docent-led walking tour that covers about six blocks and begins at the city’s first historic landmark – the 1875 Rapp Saloon, which was built as a beer hall and later served as City Hall, a piano tuning shop

CREDIT: SANTA MONICA PLANNING COMMISSION

Have an event for the calendar? Send it to kamala@ timespublications.com

On Saturday, Dec. 18, explore the architecture and history of Downtown Santa Monica in a docent-led walking tour that covers about six blocks and begins at the city’s first historic landmark. and an art gallery, among other reincarnations. The tours are open to all ages and limited to 10 People. Reservations are suggested and walk-ups are welcome. Free for Conservancy members, $10 general public.

Starts at 1436 2nd Street, Santa Monica, 10 a.m., smc.givecloud.co/dwt Playa Vista Farmers Market Holiday Pop-Up Saturday, Dec. 18 Stop by the Playa Vista Farmers Market Kid Zone for a family fun holiday pop-up that includes letters to Santa, kids ornament crafts, a special story time plus a Microkickboard scooter giveaway. Pre-register to reserve a craft kit for your children plus an extra holiday giveaway ticket.

12775 West Millennium Drive, Playa Vista, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., siliconbeachparents.com CREDIT: THE POINT

Outdoor Holiday Boutique Saturday, Dec. 18 The Penmar Restaurant and Barely Canadian are hosting a day of safe outdoor shopping experiences with complementary holiday photos, a Holiday Mixer, and food and drink served all day on Penmar’s new outdoor patio.

The outdoor boutique takes place from noon to 6 p.m. and the Holiday Mixer takes place from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. The Penmar is located inside the gates of The Penmar Golf Course. Kids and doggies are welcome.

1233 Rose Ave., Venice, Noon to 7:30 p.m., barelycanadian.com Santa Monica Pub Crawl Saturday, Dec. 18 The Santa Monica Pub Crawl is one of the city’s most beloved community holiday charity events bringing together thousands of crawlers, over 20 participating businesses and multiple routes to showcase the best bars and restaurants the city has to offer. Tickets include access to food and drink specials, priority entry into bars, one free drink, free cover charges, DJs and live entertainment, and entry into Santa’s Secret After Party.

Throughout the years, the Crawl has raised over $125,000, which is enough to provide a half-million pounds of food for the Westside Food Bank. Tickets start at $20 in advance. A portion of proceeds benefits the Westside Food Bank. Check-in closes at 9:30 p.m. Participating locations include The Victorian, Rick’s Tavern, Harvelle’s, Britannia and more.

Various locations, 5 p.m. to midnight, santamonicapubcrawl.com “U.S. 99” Band – The Duo at Jackson Market Sunday, Dec. 19 “U.S. 99” Band – The Duo is a local band that will be performing at Jackson Market in Culver City. They play retro-vintage rock ‘n’ roll, blues and more.

4065 Jackson Avenue, Culver City, 2 to 5 p.m., facebook.com/u.s.99band Holiday Lights Tour & Contest Sunday, Dec. 19 – Dec. 26 In place of its traditional Holiday Home Tour of the indoors of five special homes, the

Santa Monica Main Street Farmers Market, Sunday, Dec. 19 Shop for local fresh produce and prepared foods from local restaurants. You can also enjoy musical entertainment from featured weekly bands, face painting, balloon designs, and if you catch it on the right week, a cooking demonstration featuring local produce.

2640 Main St., Santa Monica, 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Mar Vista Farmers Market, Sunday, Dec. 19 This vibrant, year-round market offers local produce, prepared foods, kids crafts and live events.

12198 Venice Blvd., 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., marvistafarmersmarket.org

Send event information at least 10 days in advance to kkirk@ timespublications.com COURTESY OF SANTA MONICA PUB CRAWL

Magical snow flurries will be happening on Fridays and Saturdays at The Point every 30 minutes from 6 to 8 p.m. through Dec. 23.

Creative Communal Holiday Makers Market Saturday, Dec. 18 Enjoy a day of holiday fun at RUNWAY Playa Vista with local makers, kids activities, live music and more. Urbanic Paper Boutique will have a booth with complimentary gift wrapping with a purchase form any RUNWAY retailer or Creative Communal vendor. The event is pet-friendly and kid-friendly.

Free admission.

12775 West Millennium, Drive Playa Vista, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Westchester Mental Health Guild is sponsoring a driving tour of outdoor decorations. There are more than 20 houses participating in the tour, all in Westchester and Playa del Rey. The tour takes place from 5 to 9 p.m. every evening through Dec. 26, with online voting through Dec. 19.

To participate, register online and donate at least $10. The donation covers your entire vehicle and gives you a list and maps of the homes on the tour, plus the right to vote for your favorite. It also gives you a chance to win a terrific New Year’s celebration gift basket.

5 to 9 p.m. daily, 2021guildholidaylights.eventbrite.com

On Saturday, Dec. 18, participate in the Santa Monica Pub Crawl, one of the city’s most beloved community holiday charity events bringing together thousands of crawlers with over 20 participating businesses.

DECEMBER 16, 2021 THE ARGONAUT PAGE 19

tious Business Name stateNumber: 2281769. REment must be filed before the GISTERED OWNER(S) expiration. The filing of this Helen Sanderson, D.D.S., statement does not of itself Inc., 4560 Admiralty Way, authorize the use in this state Suite 250 Marina del Rey, of a fictitious business name CA 90292. State of Incorporin violation of the rights of anation or LLC: California. THIS other under federal, state, or BUSINESS IS CONDUCcommon law (see Section TED BY a Corporation. The 14411 et seq., Business and date registrant commenced Professions code). Publish: to transact business under The Argonaut Newspaper. the fictitious business name DEADLINE: Dates: 12/02/21, 12/09/21, or names listed above on: Monday at 11am for Thursdays 12/16/21, 12/23/21 05/2003. I declare that all information in this statement is CALL ANN: true and correct. (A regisFICTITIOUS BUSINESS 626-584-8747 or trant who declares as true NAME STATEMENT FILE any material matter pursuant NO. 2021253051 EMAIL: to Section 17913 of the BusiThe following person(s) is ann@argonautnews.com ness and Professions Code (are) doing business as: that the registrant know to be MARIE KELZER DESIGNS, false is guilty of a misdePAPER ARTS. 4141 Glenmeanor punishable by a fine coe Ave., Unit 501 Marina del Fic. Business Name not to exceed one thousand Rey, CA 90292. COUNTY: dollars ($1,000)). REGISLos Angeles. REGISTERED TRANT/CORP/LLC NAME: OWNER(S) Marie Kelzer, FICTITIOUS BUSINESS Helen Hooper. TITLE: Pres4141 Glencoe Ave., Unit 501 NAME STATEMENT FILE ident, Corp or LLC Name: Marina del Rey, CA 90292.

NO. 2021248971 Helen Sanderson, DDS, Inc. State of Incorporation or LLC: The following person(s) is This statement was filed with California. THIS BUSINESS (are) doing business as: the LA County Clerk on: IS CONDUCTED BY an IndiSOMATIC HEALING THERNovember 18, 2021.

NOAPY. 701 Angelus Place vidual. The date registrant TICE – in accordance with Venice, CA 90291. COUNTY: commenced to transact busisubdivision (a) of Section Los Angeles. REGISTERED ness under the fictitious busi17920, a Fictitious Name OWNER(S) Melinda D. Lonness name or names listed statement generally expires don, 701 Angelus Place above on: 11/1989. I declare at the end of five years from Venice, CA 90291. State of that all information in this the date on which it was filed Incorporation or LLC: Califorstatement is true and correct. in the office of the county nia. THIS BUSINESS IS (A registrant who declares as clerk, except, as provided in CONDUCTED BY an Inditrue any material matter pursubdivision (b) of Section vidual. The date registrant suant to Section 17913 of the 17920, where it expires 40 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS commenced to transact busiBusiness and Professions days after any change in the NAME STATEMENT FILE Code that the registrant know ness under the fictitious busifacts set forth in the stateNO. 2021253258 to be false is guilty of a misness name or names listed ment pursuant to Section The following person(s) is demeanor punishable by a above on: N/A. I declare that 17913 other than a change in (are) doing business as: fine not to exceed one thouall information in this statethe residence address of a PREMIERE DENTAL sand dollars ($1,000)). REment is true and correct. (A registered owner. a new FictiGROUP. 4560 Admiralty GISTRANT/CORP/LLC registrant who declares as tious Business Name stateWay, Suite 250 Marina del NAME: Marie Kelzer. TITLE: true any material matter purment must be filed before the Rey, CA 90292. COUNTY: Owner. This statement was suant to Section 17913 of the expiration. The filing of this Los Angeles. Articles of Infiled with the LA County Clerk Business and Professions statement does not of itself corporation or Organization on: November 18, 2021. NOCode that the registrant know authorize the use in this state Number: 2281769. RETICE – in accordance with to be false is guilty of a misof a fictitious business name GISTERED OWNER(S) subdivision (a) of Section demeanor punishable by a in violation of the rights of anHelen Sanderson, D.D.S., 17920, a Fictitious Name fine not to exceed one thouann@argonautnews.com other under federal, state, or Inc., 4560 Admiralty Way, statement generally expires sand dollars ($1,000)). REcommon law (see Section Suite 250 Marina del Rey, at the end of five years from GISTRANT/CORP/LLC 14411 et seq., Business and the date on which it was filed CA 90292. State of IncorporNAME: Melinda D. London.

Professions code).

Publish: in the office of the county ation or LLC: California. THIS TITLE: Owner. This stateThe Argonaut Newspaper. clerk, except, as provided in BUSINESS IS CONDUCment was filed with the LA Obituaries Dates: 12/02/21, 12/09/21, subdivision (b) of Section TED BY a Corporation. The County Clerk on: November 12/16/21, 12/23/21 17920, where it expires 40 date registrant commenced 12, 2021. NOTICE – in acdays after any change in the to transact business under cordance with subdivision (a) facts set forth in the statethe fictitious business name of Section 17920, a Fictitious ment pursuant to Section or names listed above on: Name statement generally 17913 other than a change in 05/2003. I declare that all inexpires at the end of five the residence address of a formation in this statement is years from the date on which registered owner. a new Fictitrue and correct. (A regisit was filed in the office of the tious Business Name statetrant who declares as true county clerk, except, as Mariein Elizabeth Rizianu known as the Queen ment must be filed before the anyHaist, materialsometimes matter pursuant provided subdivision (b) of expiration. The filing of this 17920, where it ex- or Queen to Section 17913 Section of the Busi- away Wednesday, of Montana Avenue Mimi, passed statement does not of itself pires 40 days after any ness and Professions Code November 24th, 2021, losing her fight with COVID19.

She authorize the use in this state change in the facts set forth that the registrant know to be in the statement pursuant to falseresident is guilty ofofa Santa misde- Monica. of a fictitious business name was 96 and a longtime Section 17913 other than a meanor punishable by a fine in violation of the rights of anchange in the adnot to exceed one thousand other under federal, state, or Mimi ledresidence an amazing life.

A native of Los Angeles, she grew dress of a registered owner. dollars ($1,000)). REGIScommon law (see Section up in East Los Angeles.

She married in 1947, and she and a new Fictitious Business TRANT/CORP/LLC NAME: 14411 et seq., Business and Name must be Helen TITLE: PresProfessions code). Publish: herstatement husband started theirHooper. life together in Culver City, then filed before the expiration. ident, Corp or LLC Name: The Argonaut Newspaper. to statement Inglewood andSanderson, finally to Woodland Hills. For 30 Themoving filing of this Helen DDS, Inc. Dates: 12/02/21, 12/09/21, does not ofshe itselfwas authorize This 50’s statement was filed with and very active 12/16/21, 12/23/21 years, a typical homemaker the use in this state of a fictithe LA County Clerk on: inbusiness the church, teaching Sunday and singing in the November 18, school 2021. NOtious name in violaTICEentertaining, – in accordance and with raising her two tionchoir. of the rights of another Singing, cooking, subdivision (a) of Section under federal, state, or comdaughters were her joys. her divorce in 1977, she 17920,Upon a Fictitious Name mon law (see Section 14411 statement generally expires et seq., Business and Professtayed in the Woodland Hills house for a time, but unable at the end of five years from sions code). Publish: The Arto support herself, her home and lived the eventually date on which itlost was filed gonaut Newspaper.

Dates: she in the office of theended county up living on the street, eventually cutting 11/25/21, 12/02/21, 12/09/21, out of her van until she lost it and clerk, except, as provided in 12/16/21 off contact with her family.

She found her way to Santa Monica where she was subdivision (b) of Section 17920, whereowner it expires 40 Fox and spent years helping customers in taken in by Fox Laundromat’s Stan days after any change in the the daytime and sleeping a chair in the aisles at night. In 2010, a friend helped facts seton forth in the statement pursuant to Section her find out about her family online, and she reconnected with her surviving 17913 other than a change in daughter. Then, in 2013, amazingly, a friend from the laundromat rented her an the residence address of a new Fictiapartment across theregistered street.owner.

She asaid that she felt like Cinderella! She lived there tious Business Name stateuntil her death, crossing thebe street daily ment must filed before theto help out at the laundromat until its cloexpiration.

Thefriend filing of Yaniv this sure in 2019. In 2010, her dear Roheh, began filming and interviewing statement does not of itself her, eventually leading to a the documentary authorize use in this state movie about her life. She was endlessly of a fictitious business name delighted to be the star of “Queen Mimi.” in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or Mimi leaves behind her daughter, Gramcko, her grandaughters Sara, Jessica, common law (see Kate Section 14411 et seq., and and Laura, and dear friends andBusiness benefactors Marli, Sean, Stuart, Aldona, Zach, Rene, code). Publish: and Yaniv, and a hostProfessions of other friends.

She was preceded in death by her beloved The Argonaut Newspaper.

Dates: 12/02/21, 12/09/21, daughter Elizabeth and her siblings Daniel, Ruth, Jim, and Margaret.

12/16/21, 12/23/21

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING Classifieds / Legals

to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000)). REGISTRANT/CORP/LLC NAME: Melinda D. London.

TITLE: Owner. This statement was filed with the LA County Clerk on: November 12, 2021. NOTICE – in accordance with subdivision (a) of Section 17920, a Fictitious Name statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the county clerk, except, as provided in subdivision (b) of Section 17920, where it expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to Section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. a new Fictitious Business Name statement must be filed before the expiration.

The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see Section 14411 et seq., Business and Professions code). Publish: The Argonaut Newspaper. Dates: 11/25/21, 12/02/21, 12/09/21, 12/16/21

626-584-8747

O B I T U A R Y

MARIE ‘MIMI’ ELIZABETH HAIST

She will be greatly missed for her her radiant smile, her laugh, her positive outlook on life, her lively sense of humor, her feistiness, and her friendly, outgoing, caring nature. She was sunshine!

PAGE 20 THE ARGONAUT DECEMBER 16, 2021

TICE – in accordance with subdivision (a) of Section 17920, a Fictitious Name statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the county clerk, except, as provided in subdivision (b) of Section 17920, where it expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to Section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. a new Fictitious Business Name statement must be filed before the expiration. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see Section 14411 et seq., Business and Professions code). Publish: The Argonaut Newspaper.

Dates: 12/02/21, 12/09/21, 12/16/21, 12/23/21 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2021268797 Type of Filing: Original. The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: THE GREENBERG GROUP. 4316 Campbell Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90066.

COUNTY: Los Angeles. REGISTERED OWNER(S) RA Greenberg International Inc., 4316 Campbell Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90066. State of Incorporation or LLC: California. THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY a Corporation. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 07/2021. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. /s/ Randy Greenberg. TITLE: President, Corp or LLC Name: RA Greenberg International Inc. This statement was filed with the LA County Clerk on: December 10, 2021. NOTICE – in accordance with subdivision (a) of Section 17920, a Fictitious Name statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the county clerk, except, as provided in subdivision (b) of Section 17920, where it expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to Section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. a new Fictitious Business Name statement must be filed before the expiration. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see Section 14411 et seq., Business and Professions code). Publish: The Argonaut Newspaper.

Dates: 12/16/21, 12/23/21, 12/30/21, 01/06/22 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2021268524 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: ARCHANGEL MICHAEL ORTHODOX BOOSTORE. 4145 Sepulveda Blvd., Culver City, CA 90230.

COUNTY: Los Angeles. REGISTERED OWNER(S) Joy Of All Who Sorrow Orthodox Church, 4145 Sepulveda Blvd., Culver City, CA 90230.

State of Incorporation or LLC: California. THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY a Corporation. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 07/1999. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. /s/ Thomas John Tomasi.

TITLE: President, Corp or LLC Name: Joy Of All Who Sorrow Orthodox Church.

This statement was filed with the LA County Clerk on: December 10, 2021. NOTICE – in accordance with

is true and correct. /s/ Thomas John Tomasi.

TITLE: President, Corp or LLC Name: Joy Of All Who Sorrow Orthodox Church.

This statement was filed with the LA County Clerk on: December 10, 2021. NOTICE – in accordance with subdivision (a) of Section 17920, a Fictitious Name statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the county clerk, except, as provided in subdivision (b) of Section 17920, where it expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to Section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. a new Fictitious Business Name statement must be filed before the expiration. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see Section 14411 et seq., Business and Professions code). Publish: The Argonaut Newspaper.

Dates: 12/16/21, 12/23/21, 12/30/21, 01/06/22

Name Change ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME Case No. 21CMCP00144 SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES. Petition of FABIAN NIETO JR AND KATIE NIETO BY AND THRU JULIEANN LUGO, for Change of Name. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1.) Petitioner: FABIAN NIETO JR AND KATIE NIETO

BY AND THRU JULIEANN LUGO filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a.)

Fabian Nieto Jr to Fabian Lugo b.) Katie Nieto to Katie Lugo 2.) THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

NOTICE OF HEARING: Date: January 13, 2022.

Time: 8:30 AM. Dept.: A Room: 904. The address of the court is 200 West Compton Blvd., Compton, CA 90220-Compton Courthouse.

A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Los Angeles. Original filed: November 10, 2021. Thomas D. Long, Judge of the Superior Court. PUBLISH: The Argonaut Newspaper 12/02/21, 12/09/21, 12/16/21, 12/23/21

Trustee’s Sales NOTICE OF TRUSTEES S ALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 10/08/2020. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDINGS AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. ASSESSORS PARCEL

TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDINGS AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. ASSESSORS PARCEL NUMBER 5015-039-012 On JANUARY 4, 2022 at 10:30 A.M., BOBBY FORD as the duly appointed Trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust, recorded on 11/19/2020 as document No. 20201294172 of Official Records in the Office of the Recorder of LOS ANGELES County, California, executed by: ROBERTO HERNANDEZ BUSTAMANTE, a married man as his sole and separate property as Trustor, BOBBY FORD and MARY FORD, husband and wife as joint tenants, as Beneficiaries, will sell at PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH (payable at time of sale in lawful money of the United States, by cash, a cashier's check drawn by a state or national bank, a check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, savings association, or savings bank specified In section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business In this state).

AT THE FRONT ENTRANCE LOS ANGELES COUNTY COURTHOUSE, SOUTHEAST DISTRICT, 12720 NORWALK BLVD., NORWALK, CALIFORNIA 90650 all right, title and interest conveyed to and now held by it under said Deed of Trust in the property situated in said County, California describing the land therein as more fully described on said deed of trust. ALL CASHIERS CHECKS MUST BE MADE PAYABLE TO BOBBY FORD. All third party checks will be returned for re-issuance.

The property heretofore described is being sold "As Is".

The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be 5024 3rd AVENUE, LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA 90043. Directions may be obtained by written request.

The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. Said sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust, with interest thereon, as provided in said note(s), advances, if any, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, estimated fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust, to-wit: $337,340.97 estimated. Accrued Interest and additional advances, if any, will increase this figure prior to sale.

Whenever the context hereof so requires, the masculine gender includes the feminine and/or neuter , the singular number includes the plural.

NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale.

If you wish to learn whether your sale has been postponed, and if applicable the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this C:\0 LA BUSTAMONTA

Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as aSales courtesy to Trustee’s those not present at the sale.

If you wish to learn whether your sale has been postponed, and if applicable the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this C:\0 LA BUSTAMONTA FORECLOSURE\PUB NOTICE OF SALE\0 NOTICE TRUSTEE SALE.wpd

y o u ma tc h th e l ast a nd highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an "eligible bidder," you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction.

There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase, First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call 714-637-8877, or visit this internet website WWW.BOBJOEFORD.NET for information regarding the sale of this property, using the file number assigned to this case (451) to find the date on which the trustee's sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee.

Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15 days after the trustee's sale. Third, you must submit a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 45 days after the trustee's sale.

If you think you may qualify as an 'eligible tenant buyer" or "eligible bidder," you should consider contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional immediately for advice regarding this potential right to purchase.

The beneficiary under said Deed of Trust heretofore executed and delivered to the undersigned a written Declaration of Default and Demand for Sale, and a written Notice of Default and Election to Sell. The undersigned caused said Notice of Default and Election to Sell to be recorded In the county where the real property is located and more than three months have elapsed since such recordation. The Trustee contact information is BOBBY FORD, 18091 MARK CIRCLE, VILLA PARK, CALIFORNIA 92861 TELEPHONE 714-637-8877 FAX 714-637-2955 EMAIL BOBJOEFORD@ATT.NET PUBLISHED: The Argonaut Newspaper 12/16/21, 12/23/1, 12/30/21

property, you may call 714637-8877. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close to the time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information. The best way to verify postponement is to attend the sale.

NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property.

Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property.

You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of the outstanding liens that may exist on the property by contacting the county recorders office or a title company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these res o ur ce s, yo u sho ul d b e aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property.

NOTICE TO TENANT You may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code. If you are an "eligible tenant buyer," you can purchase the property if yo u m a tch the la st and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an "eligible bidder," you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid Employment - FT placed at the trustee auction.

There are three steps to exercising this right of purGPA Consulting is seeking qualified Disadvantaged Business chase, First, 48 hours Enterprise certified firms after to assist with Public Outreach, CulturtheResources, date of theand trustee sale, Architecture services for the al Landscape you can call 714-637-8877, California Department of Transportation District 7 Environmentor visit this internet website al Generalist Services On-call in Ventura County, RFQ WWW.BOBJOEFORD.NET 07A5282. GPA is also seeking Geotechnical Engineering and for information the Geologists with regarding coastal stabilization experience, and Certified sale of this property, using Industrial Hygienist.

To be considered, please send an email to the file number assigned to by COB Dec. 17. GPA will assist mary@gpaconsulting-us.com (451) tobonding, find thelines of credit, insurance, and/or this case DBE’s in obtaining date on whichassistance the trustee's any technical related to requirements for the work. sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee.

Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15 days after the trustee's sale. Third, you must submit a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 45 days after the trustee's sale.

If you think you may qualify as an 'eligible tenant buyer" or "eligible bidder," you should consider contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional immediately for advice regarding this potential right to purchase.

The beneficiary under said Deed of Trust heretofore executed and delivered to the undersigned a written Declaration of Default and Demand for Sale, and a written Notice of Default and Election to Sell. The undersigned caused said Notice of Default and Election to Sell to

For Classified rates and info, call Ann at 626-584-8747 or ann@argonautnews.com

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The Argonaut Classifieds (626) 584-8747 ann@argonautnews.com

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argonautnews.com DECEMBER 16, 2021 THE ARGONAUT PAGE 21

LOS ANGELES TIMES SUNDAY CROSSWORD PUZZLE “ACROSS AMERICA” By JOHN-CLARK LEVIN

BED OVER HEELS? I’m a 29-year-old guy with a “keep it casual” relationship history, but I can’t stop thinking about this new girl at work.

Beyond not wanting her to date anyone else, I don’t want someone to hurt her or make her sad.

No other woman has ever made me feel this way. How do I know whether this is lust or the beginnings of falling in love?

— Confused It’s easy to believe you’re “in love” when you’re really just in lust. To be fair, lust is a form of love...if you broaden the field to stuff like, “I love, love, LOVE your boobs in that inappropriately tight sweater.”

In other words, lust is animal attraction, so the “inner beauty” that’s elemental to loving somebody is immaterial. I know this firsthand, having repeatedly been the target of interspecies sex predators, large and small.

A giant male goat chased me across my friend’s parents’ farm, trying to mount me – while my friends looked on laughing. A previous perv was 6 inches high and green: a friend’s lorikeet (a kind of parrot). He ran after me on his little bird feet all around another friend’s apartment, squawking the oh-sosensual pickup line, “Otto, bird!

Otto, bird!” I bolted into the bathroom, slammed the door and refused to come out till he was behind bars. #beaktoo Complicating the detangling of “love or lust?” is another important question: “Love or infatuation?”

Falling in love is not love. It’s infatuation – an intense, usually lust-fueled obsession with our idea of who a person is: a projection of our hopes and romantic fantasies that often has little relationship to who they really are.

That said, the sheer strength and intoxicating nature of infatuation – like being blind drunk on romantic possibility instead of Jim Beam – often leads to premature feelings of “We’re perfect for each other!”

People tend to believe the more they learn about a new person they’re into, the more into them they’ll be – a la “to know them is to love them.” However, psychologist Michael I. Norton finds that when we have the hots for someone we barely know, we’re prone to read ambiguity – foggy, partial information about them – as signs the person is like us.

These (perceived!) similarities amp up our “liking” for them – at first.

However, as time goes by, we can’t help but notice all the dissimilarities

poking up, which leads us to like them less and less – a la “To know them is to loathe them.” In other words, rushing into a relationship of any permanence is the stuff dreams are made of -– if you’ve always dreamed of being financially and emotionally incinerated in a grotesquely ugly divorce.

“Buyer beware” in love is best exercised in two ways: The first is “buyer be seriously slow.” Consider putting the person you’re dating on secret probation for a year (or more).

This will give you time to not just see the best in them but give it muchneeded company: glimpses of the worst.

Second, explore whether your compatibility with a person is surface – “I love sushi! She loves sushi!” – or sustainably deep. The ideal tool for assessing this is the best definition of love I’ve ever read, and by “best,” I mean the most practically useful. It’s

by Ayn Rand. (And no, I’m not one of the glassy-eyed worshippers of everything she ever said or wrote, but she nailed it on this.)

“Love is a response to values,” writes Rand. “It is with a person’s sense of life that one falls in love – with that essential sum, that fundamental stand or way of facing existence, which is the essence of a personality. One falls in love with the embodiment of the values that formed a person’s character, which are reflected in his widest goals or smallest gestures. ...It is one’s own sense of life that acts as the selector,” identifying one’s own core values in the other person.

Using this “values model” to determine compatibility requires some preliminary work: figuring out your own values, meaning the principles you care most about – the guiding standards for the sort of person you want to be. If you’re in the “gotta get started on that” stage, recognizing what isn’t love – those love fakers, lust and infatuation – should help you avoid sliding into the committed relationship nightmare zone.

Ultimately, love is nautical: It’s both the ship that launched a thousand sappy cliches and, more vitally, a lifeboat. In lifeboat form, it gets romantic partners through the worst of times, major and, um, somewhat less major – like when your bae spends your entire date night searching Hulu for a movie to watch. Love is dropping your phone in the goldfish bowl to keep yourself from whispering, “Hey, Siri, where’s the legal line between murder and involuntary manslaughter?”

GOT A PROBLEM? Write to Amy Alkon at 171 Pier Ave, Ste. 280, Santa Monica, CA 90405, or email her at AdviceAmy@aol.com.

©2021, Amy Alkon, all rights reserved. Alkon’s latest book is “Unf*ckology: A Field Guide to Living with Guts and Confidence.” Follow @amyalkon on Twitter or visit blogtalkradio.com/amyalkon.

PAGE 22 THE ARGONAUT DECEMBER 16, 2021

Across 1 Band with horns 8 Some fits 14 “Or perhaps less” 20 Go on a rampage 21 November pardon recipient 22 End of a sentence 23 Tournament pairings in Fort Wayne, Denver and Kennebunkport?

25 Without delay 26 Personnel groups 27 A 20-sided one may be used in Dungeons & Dragons 28 Bit of Lab love 30 Pericles foe 31 Hot Wheels item 33 Regular observance in Bangor, St. Louis, Providence and Mobile?

35 Grandpa Simpson 38 Cheering noise 39 Fill up 40 They may have EIKs 41 They may be uncut 43 __ Díaz de Vivar (El Cid) 46 Reddit Q&A sessions 47 Bagel topping 50 Bread spread in Montgomery, Jefferson City and Fargo?

52 Showed the way 53 “Murder, She Wrote” setting Cabot __ 54 Formal topper 55 Screenwriter James 56 Fronts divide them 58 Cleave 59 Hilton rival 61 Ancient Dead

Sea kingdom 64 Far less friendly 65 “A Wrinkle in Time” director DuVernay 66 Tableware in Boston, South Bend, Baton Rouge and Bismarck?

70 Old draft org.

72 Amazon’s sector 74 Did 75 Base opposite 76 Cable station for 45 yrs.

77 “Shape of You” Grammy winner 80 Moderate, with “up” 82 Religion of Mecca 84 Some Kias 85 Gadot of “Wonder Woman” 86 What can capture Santa Barbara, Grand Forks and Boise?

89 Journalist Curry 90 Cry hard 91 Pasta order 92 Shoe part 93 Route-finding app 94 Writer Bombeck 95 Contractor’s no.

97 Power-washing meas.

98 Olympiads in Little Rock, Fresno and Dover?

102 Modesto Nuts’ baseball level, historically 105 Tackle neighbor 106 Giants manager Kapler 107 Orc, to an Elf 108 JFK’s 109 112 Name of six popes 114 Traffic cone color in Quincy, Minot, Bentonville and Bloomington?

117 Supply 118 Big Easy cuisine

119 Coffeehouse job 120 Implored 121 Patronizing words, maybe 122 Mountain wind Down 1 NFL analyst Collinsworth 2 Track 3 Atahualpa, e.g.

4 Lara of “Tomb Raider” games 5 Try to achieve 6 Homers, in baseball lingo 7 Gambling initials 8 Part of a flight 9 Purplish shade 10 Target of Indy’s quest 11 He-Man nemesis 12 Relaxing bubble bath, say 13 Food service giant 14 Pub pick 15 Campaign funders 16 Online harassers 17 Worked to perfect 18 Big name in metal 19 Itsy-bitsy 24 Food label fig.

29 “Seinfeld” doofus 32 Greek-style yogurt brand 33 Old wizard 34 Small tablet 35 First name in mystery 36 Trusted 37 Hermione Granger portrayer 39 Browsing blueprint 42 Campus org.

44 Started eating 45 Hwy., e.g.

46 Clay became him 47 Worries too much (over) 48 Evokes a “TMI,” say 49 Strikes (out) 51 “Moonlight”

actress Harris 53 TV forensics letters 56 Easy as __ 57 Maine coastal park 60 Feminist filmcriticism subject 62 __-horse town 63 Riders, e.g.

67 Office PC linkup 68 Invites over 69 Summer quencher 71 Kenyan’s neighbor 73 “I see” reactions 77 Important period 78 Caesar salad dressing ingredient 79 Tie word 81 Gator’s tail?

83 Texter’s “No way!”

86 Lurched 87 Donation to the poor 88 Corruption metaphor 90 Disappointing social outing 93 In a watchful way 94 Head to sea 96 Sandal style 98 Audibly shocked 99 Less tactful 100 “Cheers” waitress 101 Big name in transmission repair 102 Apple pie-making tool 103 Welcoming garland 104 Bring shame to 107 FDR’s Scottie 109 Not duped by 110 New __ 111 Migratory seabird 113 Quiet go-ahead 115 One looking for a buck?

116 Food service trade org.

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These materials are not from HUD or FHA and were not approved by HUD or a government agency.

DECEMBER 16, 2021 THE ARGONAUT PAGE 23

Your Journey starts at SMC

Classes start

February 14 smc.edu/spring

SANTA MONICA COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES Rob Rader, Chair; Dr. Louise Jaffe, Vice Chair; Dr. Susan Aminoff; Dr. Nancy Greenstein; Dr. Margaret Quiñones-Perez; Dr. Sion Roy; Barry A. Snell; Ali Shirvani, Student Trustee; Kathryn E. Jeffery, Ph.D., Superintendent/President Santa Monica College | 1900 Pico Blvd. Santa Monica, CA 90405 | smc.edu