Playa Vista Direct — December 2021

DECEMBER 2021

D I R E C T

BIG SCREEN DREAMS TV producer Casey Kasprzyk found success in the world of soap operas

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE Pages 34-35

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Contents 6 Happy Holidays

28 CompostableLA shares tips for reducing holiday food waste

COMMUNITY

32 Entertain eyes and palates with a Blueberry Orange Tart

EDITOR’S NOTE

10 The 2nd Annual Playa Vista Monster Dash 5K Run/Walk raised money for local charities PEOPLE

33 Tart Cherry and Chocolate Scones pair perfectly with coffee or tea on cold mornings

BIG SCREEN DREAMS

SHOPPING

12 Senior power lifter Don Collins is breaking records with his strength 16 Casey Kasprzyk found success as a TV producer in the world of soap operas

D I R E C T

DECEMBER 2021

34 From sweet treats to self-care sets, our Holiday Gift Guide has something for everyone on your list

TV producer Casey Kasprzyk found success in the world of soap operas

PET ADOPTION

BUSINESS

36 Meet Venus, a sweet young kitten who loves to play and relax

22 Urbanic Paper Boutique offers a curated selection of unique and creative gifts

CALENDAR

FOOD 26 Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams releases a limited-edition Holiday Collection

38 Check out fun local events including the Playa Vista Farmers Market Holiday Pop-Up and PetSpace Kids Winter Camp Online

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE Pages 34-35

On the cover: Casey Kasprzyk is an Emmy Award-winning TV producer for the CBS soap opera “The Bold and the Beautiful.”

Photo by Chris Mortenson Design by Arman Olivares

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JESSE WEINBERG AND ASSOCIATES DRE #01435805 This is not intended as a solicitation if your property is currently listed with another broker/agent. Based on information from the CLAW MLS as of Dec. 3, 2021. All data, including all measurements and calculations of area, is obtained from various sources and has not been, and will not be, verified by broker or MLS. All information should be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy. Properties may or may not be listed by the office/agent presenting the information.

EDITOR’S NOTE

Happy Holidays

T

he holidays are officially here and I’ve been enjoying some of my favorite festivities this time of year, which include indulging in copious amounts of hot cocoa, listening to holiday albums while wrapping presents, and driving around the neighborhood to admire homes decked out in all their Christmas glory.

If you’re still in the midst of your holiday shopping (or haven’t started yet), our holiday guide has something to offer everyone on your list from the pet lover to the savory snacker. Some of my favorite highlights include Bonne et Filou’s line of French luxury dog macarons made from human-grade ingredients; Bath & Body Works’ beautifully packaged gift sets and holiday scents; Mami Wata’s brandnew coffee table book “AFROSURF” that features 320 pages of stunning photos, essays and profiles that explore the unique surf culture of 18 coastal countries in Africa; and SAINT Candles, which are named after different patron saints and manifest positive energy for specific purposes from health and travel to real estate.

For our cover story I had the pleasure of interviewing Playa Vista resident Casey Kasprzyk, an Emmy Award-winning television producer for the popular long-running CBS soap opera “The Bold and the Beautiful.” Fun fact: I interned for the show back when I was a student at the University of Southern California, and to this day it remains one of my favorite experiences because of the incredible people I met there who made me feel like a part of the family.

We also profile Don Collins, a senior powerlifter in his 60s who is breaking records in competitions with his impressive strength (he can leg press 2,000 pounds!) Strong and smart, he also has a degree in mechanical engineering and previously worked on improving nuclear and new submarines.

Other highlights from our December issue include Urbanic Paper Boutique, a local store founded by Audrey Woollen that offers a curated selection of unique and creative gifts; Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams’ limitededition Holiday Collection that features innovative flavors such as Sugar Plum and Cognac with Gingerbread; as well as adorable, adoptable pets from Annenberg PetSpace, including a sweet kitten named Venus who loves to play, relax and be around new people. Adopting a pet not only saves a life but also makes more room at the shelter for another animal in need, especially after holiday season when shelters are filled with ‘present’ animals that have been given as gifts and are then returned when the recipient can’t care for them.

Wishing you and your families a safe and wonderful holiday season.

See you in 2022!

Kamala Kirk Editor • kkirk@timespublications.com

6 PLAYA VISTA DIRECT | DECEMBER 2021

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Christina Fuoco-Karasinski christina@timespublications.com EDITOR Kamala Kirk GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Arman Olivares Kate Doll CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER Chris Mortenson, Luis Chavez CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Nicole Borgenicht, Emily Chavez, Michele Robinson INTERN Holly Jenvey ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Peter Lymbertos plymbertos@timespublications.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Rebecca Bermudez rbermudez@timespublications.com

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COMMUNITY

RUNNING FOR A CAUSE The 2nd Annual Playa Vista Monster Dash 5K Run/Walk was a big success STORY BY KAMALA KIRK | PHOTOS BY PETER COOPER

From Forrest Gump to honey bees, runners showed up in their most creative costumes for the 2nd Annual Playa Vista Monster Dash 5K Run/Walk on October 31.

The Halloween-themed event was hosted by Elevation Health, Playa Vista Parks & Landscape (PVPAL) and RUNWAY. 327 participants registered for the Monster Dash with nearly 90% participation, and 50% of the racers were from the Playa Vista community.

A costume contest was held for the top three creative costumes, and as a way to give back to the community, proceeds from the event were donated to several local charities including Friends of Ballona Wetlands and Junior League of LA. A donation was also made to a local food bank and Girl Scout Daisy Troop 70105 hosted a food drive and items were purchased to fill the bin they had at the Playa Vista Branch Public Library.

The sponsors who helped make the event happen included Suarez Team of Keller Williams, Playa Vista Living Real Estate, Champ Camp, Euro Soccer, The Junior League of LA, Gulp, Grandview House Preschool, Kaelo Marketing, BEEBAD Energy Drink, Clean Energy Drink, Yummy.com Playa Vista, and Anuraga Dance Company.

Elevation Fitness manages The Resort Fitness Center and all fitness and wellness programming in the Playa Vista community.

Their goal is to provide fun programming that engages everyone. For members of the Playa Vista community, The Resort Fitness Center offers free group fitness classes, personal training, wellness incentives, weight loss challenges and more. Currently, Elevation Fitness and PVPAL are planning their next big event, the annual Fit Expo in Spring 2022.

“Our goal is to always build community and we were thrilled to re-start events with the annual Playa Vista Monster Dash 5K Run/Walk after a year of cancelled venues,” says Micaela Robinson, regional director of business innovation for Elevation Corporate Health. “We’re so proud the 5K Run/Walk was a huge success, and collectively we were able to give back to several local non-for-profits. We can’t wait to start planning for next year’s 3rd Annual Playa Vista Monster Dash 5K Run/Walk.”

Follow @playavistaresort on Instagram and visit facebook.com/pvresort for updates on upcoming events.

327 participants registered for the Monster Dash and 50% of the racers were from the Playa Vista Community.

As a way to give back to the community, proceeds from the event were donated to several local charities.

From Forrest Gump to honey bees, people dressed in a variety of fun costumes for the family-friendly event and a costume contest was held for the top three creative costumes.

After participants ran and walked through the beautiful On October 31, Elevation Health, Playa Vista Parks & Landscape, and RUNWAY hosted the 2nd Annual Playa Vista community of Playa Vista, RUNWAY hosted a Halloween afterparty.

Monster Dash 5K Run/Walk.

10 PLAYA VISTA DIRECT | DECEMBER 2021

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PEOPLE

Don Collins is a Playa Vista resident and senior powerlifter.

12 PLAYA VISTA DIRECT | DECEMBER 2021

PEOPLE

HEADLINE STRENGTH IN NUMBERS subhead Don Collins is breaking records as a senior powerlifter STORY BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI | PHOTOS BY STORY BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI | PHOTOS BY CHRIS MORTENSON

XD

on Collins has done plenty in his 61 years. The Playa Vista xxxxxxx resident has worked with subxxxxxxxxxxx marines and in the nonprofit technology and scientific sector.

His “strength,” some could say, is more remarkable: He can leg press 2,000 pounds.

“Someone mentioned if I kicked anyone with these legs, I would kill them,” Collins says with a laugh.

In September, he competed in the United States Powerlifting Association Drug Tested Southern California Open in Long Beach. There, he broke records for the lift, squat and bench press along with the dead lift.

It was his first competition of the sort. The success in Long Beach allowed him to qualify for the Drug Tested World Championship in Costa Mesa in early November. There, he surpassed his weight in Long Beach.

“I deadlifted 469.6 pounds,” Collins says. “It was 3.2 times my body weight. I want to go for four times.

I’ve been lifting weights throughout my life. The first time I competed in official powerlifting competitions, I broke records. I was just doing it to get strong. I wasn’t looking to compete.”

His workout regimen complements his other lifelong hobby: hockey. The Massachusetts native started playing the sport when he was just 5.

“Baseball followed,” he says. “I played in all the youth leagues and all that.”

Back then, his position of choice was goalie, which was easy for the 5-foot 2-inch, 110-pound athlete.

“When I was a young kid — the youngest kid on the block — I was the smallest kid on the block, so I ended up playing goalie,” he says.

Collins recently competed and broke records at the United States Powerlifting Association Drug Tested Southern California Open in Long Beach.

Armed with a degree in mechanical engineering from University of Lowell, Collins worked on improving nuclear submarines and, eventually, new submarines.

“Then the Cold War ended, and I had to find something else to do,” says Collins, who earned a master’s from George Washington University.

“They were cutting the Department of Defense budgets. I had worked on my master’s in systems engineering.”

He landed a job at the Department of Energy in clean energy technology.

Subsequently, Collins was recruited to answer a nonprofit technology and scientific research center in Laramie, Wyoming. He worked there for 13 years.

There, he began to lift and play hockey regularly. It came out of necessity: Being in shape helped him avoid injury as a recreational hockey player.

“If I didn’t stay in good condition, I’d hurt myself and I’d have a lifelong injury,” he says. “In my mid-40s, I started lifting more consistently. I’d play adult rec league hockey once a week.”

He and his wife moved to Playa Vista in April 2020 to be near their daughter and son-in-law.

“They were getting ready to have grandchildren, so we moved out here to enjoy that journey of life,” he says.

Collins hasn’t played hockey since (Continued on page 16) PLAYA PLAYAVISTA VISTADIRECT DIRECT | | DECEMBER DECEMBER 2021 2021 1313

PEOPLE

(Continued from page 12)

the COVID-19 pandemic started. He’s hoping that leagues will start again, specifically in El Segundo. To prepare, he trains at least four times a week at Different Breed Strength and Conditioning in Playa Vista with the owner/ head strength and conditioning coach, Kyle Shepherd.

He is Collins’ son-in-law.

“He said I have good genetics,” Collins says with a laugh. “He said, by lifting, I have a really good foundation and base to work from. It’s probably from playing hockey. I played it as a kid all the time during the summer. I have very muscular legs and that helps with the squat and deadlift.”

He acknowledges that bodies plateau. Collins knows he hasn’t hit that yet. He’s going to continue to push.

“It’s good to have these goals,” he says. “The next world championship is in July in Las Vegas. I’m going for it then.

Collins can leg press 2,000 pounds and his workout regimen complements his other lifelong hobby: hockey.

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PLAYA VISTA DIRECT | DECEMBER 2021 15

PEOPLE

BIG SCREEN DREAMS TV producer Casey Kasprzyk found success in the world of soap operas STORY BY KAMALA KIRK | PHOTOS BY CHRIS MORTENSON

F

rom a young age, Casey Kasprzyk knew that he wanted to work in the entertainment industry. He attended Chapman University for the school’s film and television production program, where he helped produce various late night and business shows.

“I was inspired by the film ‘Back to the Future’ and wanted to make movies like that one day,” Kasprzyk says. “I aspired to be the next Steven Spielberg or Robert Zemeckis. Then I went to film school and realized there was a difference between film and TV and how they’re produced. Film production is a very different world. I gravitated more towards television, I liked the controlled environment inside a studio with set hours. I knew at a young age what I wanted to do, and I’m fortunate that I went to school for it and have a job in this industry.”

In college, Kasprzyk was very involved in student activities and was associated students president. During the last semester of his senior year, he landed an internship with the CBS soap opera “The Bold and the Beautiful” and drove from Orange County to Los Angeles twice a week.

“My friend Diane had interned there and I thought it would be fun because I watched the show,” Kasprzyk says. “I really enjoyed the internship.”

After graduating from Chapman University in 2001, Kasprzyk enrolled in the graduate television program at Loyola Marymount University. He gained industry work experience through various internships including the Game Show Network and Fox Sports, and was a page at Television City.

“I got exposure to television shows like ‘American Idol,’ ‘The Price Is Right’ and ‘Hollywood Squares,’ it was really 16 16 PLAYA PLAYA VISTA VISTA DIRECT DIRECT || DECEMBER DECEMBER 2021 2021

Casey Kasprzyk is an Emmy Award-winning television producer who has worked for the CBS soap opera “The Bold and the Beautiful” since 2003.

cool to have that opportunity,” Kasprzyk says. “During my internship at Fox Sports I always had ‘The Bold and the Beautiful’ on TV, but whenever someone would come into my office I changed the channel back to sports. I was always more interested in what was going on with B&B, which reinforced that it was where I wanted to be.”

In 2003 during his final year at LMU, Kasprzyk was hired to work at the front desk for B&B. He started out performing various administrative duties, which included answering phones and making copies of scripts, but quickly worked his way up.

“At B&B, everyone starts at the front desk,” Kasprzyk says. “That’s what’s so special about working there, it’s a familyrun production company and the Bell family who owns it is amazing. My boss, Brad Bell, really set a tone at the company that creates a family atmosphere and most of the employees have been there a very long time. That’s the secret sauce of the show.”

Kasprzyk caught the attention of his boss and the show’s producers after he created entertaining videos for the company’s anniversary and Christmas parties.

“After that, I started making videos for our website,” Kasprzyk says. “In

2008 after being with the company for five years, I became associate producer and helped with the creative aspects of the show, quality control, and helped move the show forward transitioning to high definition. I also supervise digital effects, and spend a lot of time in post-production editing montages and sequences. I have also directed several episodes. I always say that I don’t write the show, I look for ways to help enhance it creatively.”

Kasprzyk eventually became the show’s location coordinator, scouting and securing places to shoot.

“Brad and I started collaborating to make LA more of a character on the show,” Kasprzyk says. “It usually starts with him asking me where we could go that would be fun and different, like if a character is going to propose or there’s going to be a wedding. We’ve filmed in a lot of Westside locations like Malibu and Marina del Rey. On an episode, one of the show’s main characters, Stephanie, had a lifelong dream to ride a rollercoaster at the Santa Monica Pier so we filmed an entire episode about that. We’ve also taken the show to Aspen, Cabo San Lucas, Italy, Monte Carlo, Paris, Amsterdam and Sydney. I’ve been all over the world.”

When scouting for a shoot, Kasprzyk will travel to destinations to do research and figure out logistics, meet with a local production company, then make a big concept board with the different locations for filming.

“It all comes together really quickly,” Kasprzyk says. “One of the most challenging and rewarding locations to film in was Dubai, where Brad had this idea that one of the actors was going to fall off the helipad at the Burj Al Arab Hotel. When I saw it in person, I realized it was going to be hard to get the filming equipment up to the helipad and the hotel decided they didn’t want us to shoot there. We changed the scene so that the character falls out of a helicopter, which made it even better. That was one of our most exciting location shoots.”

Another memorable location was downtown LA’s Skid Row. The storyline ended up winning a Daytime Emmy for Outstanding Drama Series in 2011, which was Kasprzyk’s first Emmy.

“Brad came to me and said he wanted to do an episode about homelessness

PEOPLE

Kasprzyk is an alumnus of Loyola Marymount University, where he enrolled in the graduate television program.

and he wanted to feature residents of Skid Row as actors,” Kasprzyk says.

“That started our production team on this incredible journey stepping outside the studio, going into downtown LA and meeting with representatives from Union Rescue Mission and different community leaders. By the time the episodes were edited and on air, winning an award was an afterthought. It was more about the experience, the people that we met and what we all taught one another. Skid Row was a part of LA I’d never been to before and now I have a connection to the community.”

Always looking for new ways to challenge himself, Kasprzyk collaborated with his colleague, Anthony Ferrari, who oversees B&B’s international distribution, to write a song for the show in 2014.

“I’d had this song in my head for 10 years and one day I sat down and put it on paper, then I gave him the lyrics,” Kasprzyk says. “He came up with a melody, we created a song and put it in the show. It was called ‘Hands of Time’ and was well received by the fans. It was the first song I ever wrote and it won a Daytime Emmy for Outstanding Original Song for a Drama Series.”

After their success, Ferrari and Kasprzyk continued to write songs for the show. Together they’re written over 40 songs, winning Daytime Emmy Awards in 2015, 2016 and 2019, in addi-

tion to earning multiple nominations.

“The majority of songs start with an idea, I’ll be driving or going on a long walk around the neighborhood and lyrics will come into my head, then I’ll jot them down in my phone and elaborate on that,” Kasprzyk says. “When a script comes out, I’ll try to have it relate more to the storyline so it helps to tell the story through the song. It’s interesting, I’ll write these songs and then the episodes will come out and will be exactly how I was feeling when I wrote the song.

I don’t play any instruments or have any music training, but writing song lyrics is like poetry. It’s been really cathartic to have that kind of outlet.”

After COVID-19 hit and the entertainment industry was put on pause, B&B was the first scripted TV show that was officially approved to go back into production. Kasprzyk and his colleagues worked tirelessly to come up with ways to continue filming the show in a safe manner.

“The producers met every day at the beginning of shutdown to figure out how we could make the show,” Kasprzyk says.

“Once the unions and the guilds came out with their protocols, we were able to get approved quickly to go back into production. There were a lot of starts and stops because everyone wanted to do it safely. Our actors had to be 8 feet apart, (Continued on page 18) PLAYA PLAYAVISTA VISTADIRECT DIRECT | | DECEMBER DECEMBER 2021 2021 1717

PEOPLE

(Continued from page 17)

we used mannequins and camera tricks, and some of our actors and actresses brought in their significant others as stand-ins for kissing scenes. Everyone gets tested weekly and half of our office works hybrid.”

When faced with the decision of whether or not to incorporate the pandemic into the show’s storylines, Kasprzyk says that B&B ultimately decided not to include it because the show helps people escape from the realities of daily life.

“The soap opera isn’t supposed to be real life, we need to tell stories that are larger than life,” Kasprzyk says. “Our show gives viewers 30 minutes a day, five days a week where they can forget about their problems, see the characters they love and just have fun. People are tuning in to escape from the pandemic. That’s what I feel my contribution is: entertaining people.”

Back in June, Kasprzyk started a weekly YouTube show called “Bold Live”

where he interviews a cast member in every episode and fans can call in.

“We talk to fans from around the world live on the air, it’s a fun way to get to know the actors and it grew out of COVID-19 because we couldn’t have fan events,” Kasprzyk says. “I enjoy hosting, it’s another creative outlet for me and it helps me feel the pulse of what our fans like.”

March 2022 will mark the show’s 35th anniversary, and while Kasprzyk doesn’t exactly know yet what B&B will doing, he is looking forward to some type of celebration.

“That’s what I love about this job, we film 250 episodes a year and eight episodes a week, but every day is something different,” Kasprzyk says. “B&B is the most watched daily drama series in the world. I’m very fortunate to have a job where I can use my creativity and I’ve really grown up with the show. I’ve learned a lot from the people I work with and we all help each other grow.”

While B&B is a huge part of Kasprzyk’s life, in his spare time he enjoys mentoring students at his alma mater, running marathons, playing tennis, attending sporting events and spending time outdoors in Playa Vista. He moved to the community last year after being a Westchester resident for 19 years.

“When I started at LMU in 2001, Playa Vista was starting to be incorporated,” Kasprzyk says. “I saw condos being built and over the years it continued to grow. I just felt a connection to the area and knew I needed to be on the Westside. It’s very open with hiking trails, dog parks and great access to the beach and airport. Playa Vista is such a welcoming community and I really feel at home in this part of LA.” The Bold and the Beautiful cbs.com/shows/ the_bold_and_the_beautiful

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PLAYA VISTA DIRECT | DECEMBER 2021 19

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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 footages are approximate.

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BUSINESS

THOUGHTFUL AND CONTEMPORARY Urbanic Paper Boutique offers a curated selection of creative gifts STORY BY NICOLE BORGENICHT | PHOTO BY SAM DRYFUS

A

udrey Woollen’s magical store, Urbanic Paper Boutique at Free Market Playa Vista, is in fashion but not trend driven.

“Urbanic is a blend of natural, cotton paper, warm earthy colors and textures, mixed with style and a twist of inspiration from urban lifestyle,” Woollen says. “It is urban mixed with organic.”

The boutique carries a curated selection of beautiful and unique cards, stationery, wrapping paper, party supplies, desk accessories and small gifts. Its best sellers are signature candles, greeting cards, stationery, notebooks and pens.

Woollen doesn’t base her business on trends though. She buys items with themes and designs that are popular across industries such as art, design and fashion, but not simply for the sake of being on trend. Urbanic changes with each season, but what doesn’t change is the character of the shop.

“The brand is aesthetic, street and stylish,” Woollen says. “There are softer colors of a female undertone, a lot of muted colors and color stories for each season. There are also seasonal and holiday gift boxes.”

After Woollen received her bachelor’s degree in journalism, public relations, and advertising from Temple University in Philadelphia, the New York fashion industry swept her up as a designer sales rep.

Working in New York, Woollen represented high-end contemporary individual designers showing their new lines and collections, setting up trade shows, traveling and selling.

“I learned the wholesale side of retail all over the country,” Woollen says.

In 1998 she began working in downtown Los Angeles, selling in showrooms and at market, many of the designers she’d represented in NY. Eventually Woollen went freelance, working all trade shows and servicing boutiques.

“It was fun and exciting, lacking sentiment,” Woollen says. “My ah-hah (Continued on page 24) 22 22 PLAYA PLAYA VISTA VISTA DIRECT DIRECT || DECEMBER DECEMBER 2021 2021

Audrey Woollen, who has a background in design and retail, is the founder of Urbanic Paper Boutique at Free Market Playa Vista.

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| DECEMBER 2021 23 PLAYA VISTA DIRECT Broker DRE# 02035381

BUSINESS

(Continued from page 22) PHOTO BY MELODY HANSEN

The boutique offers a curated selection of cards, stationery, wrapping paper, party supplies, desk accessories and other small gift items.

moment was I wanted to create a (paper) boutique version with select beautiful designers in the United States and internationally.”

Nonetheless, these experiences set the road map in varied market and wholesale to retail business for her passion.

“I found meaning behind what I’m doing now,” Woollen says. “Now all is based on thoughtfulness: someone is 24 24 PLAYA PLAYA VISTA VISTA DIRECT DIRECT || DECEMBER DECEMBER 2021 2021

having a baby, sorry, wedding and so on.

Pair that with a love of desk things, back to school time, greeting cards – I used to spend my allowance on all of this.”

Even prior to the retail opening, Urbanic had made a splash helmed by Woollen at the Santa Monica farmers market. She also had a booth at what was then a hot spot at the Merchant’s Mart in Santa Monica with only a small space

in the Main Street farmers market at the time.

“I ordered from tiny designers and tagged all the merchandise,” Woollen says.

When the 1,200-square-foot space opened on Abbot Kinney, she went to work.

“I built the business from scratch,” Woollen says. “I went to the paint shop.

I had a blog and made friends. I blogged late at night after work. I would blog that I was pregnant and made a lot of late at night blog traction. I had free press from my blog. I discovered a lot of people are into fashion and designers that love paper too, and they came in. I added a giftwrapping service.”

The business grew and Woollen had become part of a network of peoplebuilding business.

“We were featured in Japanese magazines and in Vogue as a special niche, and people could feel my passion,” Woollen says. “Business improved. Then GQ printed that Abbot Kinney was the hippest (shopping) place in America, and all the rents went up. The recession hit us as a brief dip, but an international buyer purchased half the block and business got good again.”

When Playa Vista began developing, Woollen had her eye out for another store. But it wasn’t until Alchemy Works’ owners suggested she also get a spot, that Woollen became inspired to do so.

Pre-COVID-19, Woollen had a space in Alchemy Works’ pop-up in downtown LA. Then with COVID-19, everything closed. Urbanic has been at Free Market now for six months.

Woollen’s assistant director is Melody Hansen, who has been with Urbanic for eight years. “She’s my right hand and an integral force behind the business,” Woollen says. “She helps coordinate my ideas and makes them happen. My products include greeting cards, small gifts, baby and kid gifts, party goods, desk accessories, wrapping paper and ribbons, stationery and rubber stamps. We sell a lot of our locally made candle line, and we are different from a big box stationery store because we curate a cohesive collection.”

Urbanic Paper Boutique 12751 Millennium Drive, Playa Vista 310-804-2931 urbanicpaper.com

PLAYA VISTA DIRECT | DECEMBER 2021 25

FOOD

FESTIVE FLAVORS Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams releases limited-edition Holiday Collection STORY BY KAMALA KIRK | PHOTOS COURTESY OF JENI’S SPLENDID ICE CREAMS

J

Jeni’s Splendid Holiday Collection features festive flavors including Pistachio Macaron, Mexican Hot Chocolate, Sugar Plum, White Chocolate Peppermint, and Cognac with Gingerbread.

26 26 PLAYA PLAYA VISTA VISTA DIRECT DIRECT || DECEMBER DECEMBER 2021 2021

ust in time for the festive winter season, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams has released a limit-edition Holiday Collection that includes two new flavors, Pistachio Macaron and Mexican Hot Chocolate, along with three returning fan favorites: Sugar Plum, White Chocolate Peppermint, and Cognac with Gingerbread.

“Our Cognac with Gingerbread, Sugar Plum, and White Chocolate Peppermint are returning flavors – back because I love them deeply,” says founder Jeni Britton Bauer. “They just scream ‘holiday’ to me. Two are reimagining classics I made years ago, Mexican Hot Chocolate and Pistachio Macaron. The latter is the flavor I can’t stop thinking about lately. It’s gorgeous in its simplicity – double-toasted pistachios with bitter almond and a touch of honey that gives the cream this meringue-like texture. It’s heaven on earth.”

Pistachio Macaron is a two-toned roasted pistachio ice cream with a touch of almond and meringue-like texture.

Mexican Hot Chocolate, a velvety milk chocolate cream with red-hot cinnamon and a kick of cayenne, is the flavor that inspired Bauer to make ice cream more than 20 years ago.

“It was 1996 and I was a pink-haired art student obsessed with scent,” Bauer recalls. “On a whim, I smashed cayenne essential oil into a tub of chocolate ice cream and served it at a dinner party.

Everyone went wild. It was cold and sweet. And then burst into flames in the back of our throats. I knew right then and there that I’d be making ice cream for the rest of my life. I opened my first scoop shop not long after. Mexican Hot Chocolate was on my very first menu.

It’s had a few names since, most recently Queen City Cayenne. The flavor is just as delicious as ever.”

FOOD Sugar Plum is a delectable trio of from scratch Amaretti cookies, puckery plum jam and plum wine sweet cream; White Chocolate Peppermint combines pink and white peppermint ice cream swirled together with white chocolate freckles, and Cognac with Gingerbread features warming cognac ice cream with notes of butterscotch and brown sugar, caramel sauce and heavily spiced gingerbread cake pieces throughout.

“This time of year I like to say that we’ve done the work for you,” Bauer says. “We’ve spent months baking, roasting, chopping and churning the most delicious ingredients we can find into flavors worth sharing. Ice creams that are made for my style of entertaining – what I call low lift, high impact. As in, open a pint of one of our new flavors and serve it in a fancy coupe or footed cup. That’s it. A few unforgettable bites are all you really need at the end of a big meal or holiday party.”

Aside from their unique flavors, Jeni’s partners with growers, makers and producers who supply them with fresh ingredients to make the finest ice cream that is free of flavorings, chemical dyes and cheap commodity milk. The company is also a Certified B Corporation known for their social, environmental and business leadership. Their ice cream is distributed in grocery stores including Whole Foods, Ralphs and Gelson’s, as well as at their own scoop shops in and around Los Angeles.

“These are the flavors that sort of put the extra in the holiday,” Bauer says.

“Like the bow on top of a gift – they’re fun and lively, and truly made for celebrating the season. These are ice creams I want to serve and share with loved ones this time of year.”

Jeni’s Splendid Holiday Collection is available for a limited time in shops. A pint retails for $12.

Jeni’s Venice 540 Rose Avenue, Venice (310) 314-2024 Jeni’s Free Market at RUNWAY 12751 Millennium Drive, #PU- 4, Playa Vista (213) 814-0590 jenis.com

Founded by James Beard Award-winning ice cream maker Jeni Britton, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams is dedicated to making the finest ice cream in partnership with growers, makers and producers who supply them with fresh ingredients.

PLAYA VISTA DIRECT | DECEMBER 2021 27

FOOD

BENEFITS OF COMPOSTING CompostableLA shares tips for reducing holiday food waste STORY BY MICHELE ROBINSON | PHOTO COURTESY OF COMPOSTABLELA

M

onique Figueiredo started CompostableLA, a womanrun community composting business, in 2019 because she saw a need for this type of service on the Westside.

“I wanted a convenient way to compost and it didn’t exist on the Westside, so I started it,” Figueiredo says. “Food waste is not waste, it is a resource. Nothing in nature is wasted. We can reuse it.”

CompostableLA, which Figueiredo co-owns with Jamie Renee Williams, is the only curbside compost pick-up subscription service that serves all of the Westside from Playa Vista to Pacific Palisades and everywhere in between including Mar Vista, Palms, Westchester, Venice and Culver City.

“The goal is to keep everything local,” Figueiredo says. “Keep these valuable resources in the community that produces it. From Westside to Westside. This way we give back locally.”

Composting is the most ancient form of recycling — using something to make a resource for something else. Composting works by using microbes or worms to break down food waste and the end by-product is compost. Once it is broken down, it becomes nutrient-dense soil, not dead dirt.

Composting is a great way to benefit the environment while giving back to the community. There are many benefits of composting including reducing greenhouse gas, creating healthy soil and growing more nutritious foods. The act of composting reduces greenhouse gases because when food waste is thrown away it produces methane gas due to the anaerobic conditions in the landfill. This gas is 84 times more potent than carbon dioxide for approximately 20 years. However, when food scraps are composted, (Continued on page 30)

28 28 PLAYA PLAYA VISTA VISTA DIRECT DIRECT || DECEMBER DECEMBER 2021 2021

Monique Figueiredo started CompostableLA, a woman-run community composting business that serves all of the Westside and turns food scraps into superfood for soil.

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PLAYA VISTA DIRECT | DECEMBER 2021 29

FOOD

(Continued from page 28)

methane gas is not created.

Additionally, composting creates healthy soil, which has better water retention (it can hold five times the weight in water) and pollution filtration abilities (it can remove 60 to 95 percent of stormwater pollutants). This is powerful because it can maximize absorption and storage of precious rainwater in drought situations. Healthy soil also takes the carbon dioxide out of the air and puts it in the ground, which is beneficial for the plants and reduces carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

Healthy soil produces nutrient-rich foods because they come from the nutrient-dense soil. Compost is a soil amendment that restores microbes and serves as an organic fertilizer, which produces foods that are healthier for our bodies.

“Healthy soil, healthy food, healthy humans, healthy planet,” Figueiredo says.

There is a major difference between using organic fertilizer and synthetic fertilizer. Synthetic fertilizers gradually seep into the water supply and create ocean “dead zone” (an area in the ocean that is devoid of life), killing the animals and plants in that space. If you use natural fertilizer from compost, not only

HOLIDAY TIPS FROM COMPOSTABLELA: • Don’t over plan meals. Plan your meals according to how many guests you are expecting. Remember ‘less is more.’ Holidays are a time when people typically prepare too much food for their guests. Instead of overpreparing, you can offer a smaller selection. This will help reduce waste and overeating. “Remember it is a privilege and honor to have an abundance of food, try not to use more than your need,” Figueiredo said.

• Properly store leftovers. You can basically refrigerate, freeze or can almost anything. There is no need to throw away leftovers. For example, if you are preparing pie, you can make the pie filling ahead of time, freeze it and defrost whenever you’re ready to bake. Then afterwards, you can freeze the pie leftovers. Another tip is freezing milk. You can break it up into 30 30 PLAYA PLAYA VISTA VISTA DIRECT DIRECT || DECEMBER DECEMBER 2021 2021

BUSINESS

During the holidays when there is excess food waste, composting is a great way to benefit the environment while giving back to the community.

are living creatures not injured, it actually boosts the beneficial microbes that live in our soils.

“Replace artificial plant food with compost,” Figueiredo recommends.

Composting creates clean air and clean water, and community-based organizations like CompostableLA also support environmental justice.

“It’s free, it’s a natural resource,” Figueiredo says. “Instead of throwing our pints, freeze each container and then pull small amounts out of the freezer gradually. This can be done with bread and other items that people usually throw out when their shelf life has expired. For more tips on freezing and canning, visit nchfp.uga.edu/ tips/tips_home.html or for recipes try pickyourown.org/ allaboutcanning.htm.

• Distribute the “wealth.” Offer your guests food to take home with them after the holiday meal. If you anticipate a lot of leftover food, prepare ahead of time by providing reusable storage containers or beeswax wraps. This way you can wrap it up like a present and your guests will not leave emptyhanded. Or you can share leftovers with your unhoused neighbors that may be experiencing food insecurity.

• Use scraps to make stock. When preparing meals, instead of throwing away your scraps, you can use

scraps away, we can save costs and benefit the environment by reusing them. Waste is a human invention, not a natural one.”

CompostableLA compostablela.com lacompost.org/start-composting Instagram: @compostable.la

those herb stems and carrot peels to make stock. Here is a delicious vegetable stock recipe: Collect herbs and scraps, roast in the oven on high heat until browned, move to a large pot, fill with water and bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to simmer until liquid reduces by one half to two-thirds.

Strain out remnants and add to your compost bin. Store stock in the fridge or freezer.

• Compost. After all other methods have been used, the last place for your food waste should be the compost pile. Composting makes soil, which can then be used to grow new produce. Use apps like ShareWaste and MakeSoil to find neighbors who have compost systems you can use.

LA Compost has drop-off locations throughout the city or you can schedule a pickup with CompostableLA. “This year’s meal will become next year’s harvest,” Figueiredo said.

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PLAYA VISTA DIRECT | DECEMBER 2021 31

FOOD

WINTER BLUES MEET SUNNY CITRUS Entertain eyes and palates with a delicious Blueberry Orange Tart RECIPE BY EMILY CHAVEZ | PHOTOS BY LUIS CHAVEZ

S

ometimes when I tell people I made a blueberry tart, they assume it’s a tart filled with custard topped with fresh blueberries and oranges. Please don’t misunderstand. That type of tart is fabulous and delicious. But what I mean when I say “blueberry orange tart” is that it’s a celebration of the fruit itself; the blueberry the star of the show. It is indeed a dramatic and vibrant showstopper in color and flavor. The acidity of the orange lifts the richness of the blueberries, elevating the tart as a bright and sunny contrast to the traditional blueberry cobblers baking in many kitchens this winter.

Blueberry Orange Tart Active time: 45 minutes | Total time: 1 hour, 45 minutes Yields: 6 servings Ingredients 4 cups fresh blueberries 3 tbsp orange juice, freshly squeezed 1/2 cup of sugar 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 egg yolks 2 whole eggs 1/2 cup butter, melted 1 packet gelatin, unflavored 10-13 sheets of graham crackers Optional garnishes: oranges slices or clementine wedges Instructions In a food processor purée the blueberries until it is a smooth liquid. Add the liquefied blueberries, orange juice, sugar, salt, eggs, and 3 tablespoons of butter into a medium pot. While continuously stirring, cook the mixture on medium heat for about 20 minutes or until thick. Reduce heat if needed to prevent bubbling. Remove mixture from heat and strain to remove solids. Stir the gelatin into the mixture and set aside. Begin to make the base by pulsing the graham crackers and remaining melted butter until it starts to come together to hold its shape when pressed. Press the crust base into the tart pan’s bottom and sides. Pour in the prepared blueberry filling and place in the refrigerator to set, approximately one hour for a soft set or two hours for a firm set.

32 PLAYA PLAYA VISTA VISTA DIRECT DIRECT || AUGUST DECEMBER 2021 32 - SEPTEMBER 2021

FOOD

CHERRIES, CHOCOLATE, AND THE CRACK OF DAWN These tart scones pair perfectly with coffee or tea on cold mornings RECIPE BY EMILY CHAVEZ | PHOTOS BY LUIS CHAVEZ

S

weet and crumbly scones are the perfect pair for coffee or tea on a chilly November morning. The simple scone recipe starts off with baking basics such as flour, leavening agents and heavy cream. However, this time around, the scone is upgraded with the addition of pump dried tart cherries and silky chocolate. A mildly sweet pastry is the perfect, softly neutral background for delightfully tart cherries and bittersweet chocolate for a balanced bite.

From the moment you begin to smell the aromatic cherries and chocolate in the oven to the last scrumptious crumbly bite, this indulgent yet understated bake brings a bit of luxury to a busy morning.

Tart Cherry and Chocolate Scones Active time: 10 minutes | Total time: 45 minutes Yields: 6 scones Ingredients 6 ounces dried tart cherries 1/4 cup granulated sugar 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, chilled and cubed 1 egg 1/2 cup heavy cream 1 /4 cup bittersweet chocolate, chopped Instructions 1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

2. In a large bowl, stir together flour, sugar, baking powder and salt.

3. Add in dried tart cherries, butter, egg and heavy cream and mix until dough starts to come together.

4. Add chocolate and mix for a couple more seconds.

5. Form dough into a 6-inch round disk.

6. Cut into 6 wedges and transfer to a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.

7. Bake for 25-28 minutes until golden brown.

PLAYA PLAYAVISTA VISTADIRECT DIRECT || DECEMBER DECEMBER 2021 2021 33 33

SHOPPING

2021 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE From festive fragrances to sweet treats and self-care sets, these gift ideas are perfect for everyone on your list this year.

STORY BY KAMALA KIRK| ALL PHOTOS COURTESY

• MaeMarie Wraps feature wearable intentions for every purpose-driven, ambitious dreamer in your life. Each time you wrap a bracelet, you repeat an affirmation and carry it with you as you wear it. Once the wrap is on, it feels weightless; days, weeks or months may pass before you take it off. It’s a way to remember what is divine in you: your desire for well-being using your own mindfulness.

Available in different colors and style. All profits from the Honoring Oxford (pictured) will be donated to the Oxford High School GoFundMe. $38 and up, maemariewraps.com

• Bath & Body Works has everything you could ever dream of this holiday season from cute stocking stuffers to beautifully packaged gift sets. Their classic 3-wick candles will enhance any space and are available in an array of festive scents ranging from Winter Candy Apple to Cookies with Santa. Their themed gift sets come in minis, gift bags and boxes, and feature a variety of scents and goodies including hand cream, pocket hand sanitizer, hand soap and other selfcare necessities. Available for purchase in store and online. $9.95 to $34.50, bathandbodyworks.com

• The perfect gift for beloved pups, Bonne et Filou is a line of French luxury dog macarons that are designed to make furry companions feel like kings and queens. Made from human-grade ingredients and available in a variety of flavors ranging from lavender to birthday cake. $23.99 for a box of 6, bonneetfilou.com

34 PLAYA VISTA DIRECT | DECEMBER 2021

• For pet owners and lovers alike, Celeste Watch Company creates custom pet watches that capture the personality of our four-legged friends. Using photographs submitted by the pet owner, Celeste is able to copy the photo with shell, mother-of-pearl and abalone.

Each watch is equipped with a Swiss Ronda movement, choice of a metal or leather band, and comes with a lifetime guarantee. Now you can take your pet with you everywhere and smile at them whenever you look at your watch. $195, celestewatch.com

• SAINT Candles is a line of luxury scented modern prayer candles, and each one comes with a blessing and prayer to the patron holy saint, holy oil as part of the wax (blessed by both a priest and a rabbi), and an Italian prayer coin embedded into the candle honoring the patron saint which reveals itself once the candle has burned down. Each candle is named after a patron saint associated with a specific aspect of human life. Whether someone is battling a health issue, embarking on a trip or trying to find love – there is a candle to help them on their journey. $65, 1327 Montana Avenue, Santa Monica; 747-206-5393, saintcandles.com • Compartés has an assortment of gourmet luxury chocolate holiday gift sets that are a feast for the eyes and the senses. Offerings include their individual chocolate bars in a variety of flavors that make the perfect stocking stuffers, the Christmas Tree Chocolates Box featuring nine artisanal chocolates in a festive box, and a 40-piece box of signature handmade chocolate truffles. $11.95 and up, compartes.com • Produced entirely in Africa and co-founded by Venice resident Selema Masekela, South African surf lifestyle brand Mami Wata uses homegrown raw and sustainable materials to create a range of matching tees, shirts, sweats, swim trunks, surfboards and accessories. Their new coffee table book, “AFROSURF,” is the first book to capture and celebrate the surf and related street cultures of Africa. It features 320 pages of stunning photos, essays, surfer profiles, and more that explore the unique culture of 18 coastal countries from Morocco to Mozambique. $40, mamiwatasurf.com • Give the gift of self-care with The NOW’s limited-edition Good Energy NOW Holiday Bundle which includes their best-selling Jasmine Coconut Candle, Stress Less aromatherapy, and an exclusive Gara Danielle x The NOW black tourmaline and gold beaded bracelet. Available at select boutiques and online. $135, thenowmassage.com

SHOPPING

• Chic Danish confectionary brand Lakrids by Bülow has taken an innovative twist by coating their licorice in chocolate, resulting in delicious and creative flavor combinations like coffee and passionfruit. Just in time for the holidays, Christmas Butter Cookie combines cinnamon, caramelized white chocolate and crunchy butter caramel.

Contains authentic licorice root and is wrapped in 100% recyclable packaging with a sleek Scandinavian-inspired design. $19, amazon.com

• Get into the spirit of the yuletide season with Native’s Holiday Collection Scents (Candy Cane, Mistletoe, Sugar Cookie) that are available in a variety of products ranging from deodorant and body wash to toothpaste, shampoo and conditioner.

Featuring clean ingredients that are free of sulfates, paraben free, vegan, and cruelty-free. Also available in holiday gift sets. $3-$30, nativecos.com • Featuring a bright, joyful and feminine fragrance with sparkling top notes of citrus and black currant with lush white florals, cedarwood and tonka bean, the Rebecca Minkoff Blush Gift Set includes a 3.4 oz Eau de Parfum, 0.47 oz Eau de Parfum Travel Spray, and a 6.8 oz Fragrance Mist. Comes in a beautifully packaged box designed by multinational illustrator Isabelle Feliú. $100, rebeccaminkoff.com

• Omnom Chocolate’s tasty and folklore-inspired artisan chocolate bars from Iceland embrace the Nordic culture of storytelling. Their Winter Collection comes with three limited-edition flavors (Spiced White + Caramel, Milk + Cookies, Dark Nibs + Raspberry) and comes in a gorgeous black and gold gift box. $24.99, omnomchocolate.com PLAYA VISTA DIRECT | DECEMBER 2021 35

PET ADOPTION

Adoptable Pets

FROM ANNENBERG PETSPACE The coolest buddies in Playa Vista are waiting for their new forever homes

VENUS

SHURI

CLIFFORD

Hi, my name is Venus! I’m a sweet, young kitten who is perpetually winking at friends. I love to play and relax all day, and am very interested in being around new people. Come by so we can meet up and you can learn more about my special needs.

Hello, I’m Shuri. I’m a sweet, gentle giant who is searching for a kind and caring home. I would like to be your easygoing companion.

I am happy relaxing around the house and I make a great walking partner too.

Hey, I’m Clifford. I may not be very big or exactly beet-red, but I’d love to become your best friend. I’m a young guy who starts a bit nervous, but once I relax, I warm up quickly. Let’s get to know each other soon!

Trainer Tip – The Importance of Crate Training Katie McGuire, CPDT-KA Annenberg PetSpace

Holidays can be stressful for pets, so it’s ideal to give them a little help in finding a secure, comfortable place where they can relax. Teaching your dog to go into their crate on cue, and to be comfortable and calm while there, is very useful. This can become a safe space in a quieter

area of the house where they can nap, enjoy a treat or focus on a favorite toy away from guests or other distractions.

Start them with a crate training class in advance so you and your dog can be properly prepared for upcoming festivities.

To learn more about pet adoption, or to see other available pets, visit annenbergpetspace.org 36 PLAYA VISTA DIRECT | DECEMBER 2021

Adoptions & Programs for Pet Lovers Annenberg PetSpace is celebrating the human-animal bond by offering socially-distanced tours, pet adoptions, classes, and programs for all ages.

Visit Us Today!

annenbergpetspace.org

Advertising Works!

Playa Vista Direct magazine is the only local magazine mailed directly into every address in 90094.

Your advertisement will reach a community with a median income of $121,000! And with so many families staying closer to home, our readers are closely paying attention to each issue.

JA N / F E B Ad Space deadline Wednesday, Jan. 19 Publishes Jan. 27

DECEM BER 2021

D I R E C T

BIG SCREEN DREAMS

TV producer Case found success in y Kasprzyk of soap operas the world

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE Pages 34-35

Caring & Comfortable Dentistry Dr. Michael Parsons — In Westchester Since 1981 —

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Welcome to our beautiful new state of the art office near LAX 8930 S Sepulveda Blvd, #210 Los Angeles, 90045 Free Parking

For more information, please call 310.822.1629 PLAYA VISTA DIRECT | DECEMBER 2021 37

EVENTS

Playa Vista Farmers Market Holiday Pop-Up Saturday, Dec. 18 Silicon Beach Parents Group is hosting a family-friendly holiday pop-up event at the Playa Vista Farmers Market. From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. there will be ornament crafts and letters to Santa, and at 10 a.m. there will be a special story time. Preregister to reserve a holiday craft kit for your children and holiday giveaway ticket. At 1:30 p.m. there will be a Microkickboard Scooter giveaway on Instagram Live (instagram.com/siliconbeachparents).

12775 Millennium Drive, Playa Vista, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., siliconbeachparents.com/events RUNWAY x Creative Communal Holiday Makers Market Saturday, Dec. 18 Enjoy a day of holiday fun at RUNWAY Playa Vista with the curated market Creative Communal. There will be local makers, kids activities, live music and so much more. The event is also pet-friendly. Free admission.

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

PetSpace Kids Winter Camp Online Monday, Dec. 20 to Wednesday, Dec. 22

— Compiled by Holly Jenvey

Annenberg PetSpace Kids Winter Camp Online offers a variety of fun and informative learning opportunities from home that engage campers in learning about the human-animal bond. The special 3-day winter experience is designed for campers ages 8 to 11 and each daily itinerary explores a variety of themes through playful activities, interactive games, demonstrations and videos. Campers will meet a variety of adoptable animals and learn how to be responsible pet owners. Each child will receive a camper packet, which includes a t-shirt, craft supplies and additional Annenberg PetSpace swag.

Camp will be held on Zoom Dec. 20 to 22. Register online in advance.

Virtual, 9 to 11 a.m., $75, petspacecamp.org Squad Night Tuesday, Dec. 21 Santa has arrived at Manhattan Village for the holiday season with themed photo opportunities for visitors of all ages. From now through Dec. 24, visitors will have the opportunity to share holiday wishes and have a photo taken with Santa. Four-legged family members will have their chance to “sit” and meet the big guy during Pet Photo COURTESY OF ANNENBERG PETSPACE

From Dec. 20 to 22, Annenberg PetSpace Kids Winter Camp Online will be held via Zoom and offers campers ages 8 to 11 the opportunity to virtually meet adoptable animals and learn how to be responsible pet owners.

38 PLAYA VISTA DIRECT | DECEMBER 2021

COURTESY OF MANHATTAN VILLAGE

CALENDAR

On Tuesday, Dec. 21 from 5 to 8 p.m., grab the whole squad to take the most epic photo ever with Santa at the Manhattan Village Shopping Center.

Nights every Monday. On Dec. 21, grab the whole squad to take the most epic photo ever with Santa. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made online. Events will take outside in the Plaza and inside the shopping center.

3200 Sepulveda Boulevard, Manhattan Beach, 5 to 8 p.m., shopmanhattanvillage. com/holiday Letters with Santa and Mrs. Claus Tuesday, Dec. 21 Mr. and Mrs. Claus will stop by RUNWAY to pick up kids’ letters to Santa and read a story to them. Drop off letters at the Wonderland Mailbox located outside of RUNWAY EXPRESS. 12775 Millennium Drive, Playa Vista, 10 to 11 a.m., runwayplayavista.com Urbanic Holiday Happy Hour Thursday, Dec. 23 After your work day, come enjoy some wine, wassail and nibbles at Urbanic Paper Boutique inside of Free Market. Bring all of your gifts and simplify the holiday to-do list with Urbanic’s gift wrapping service.

12775 Millennium Drive,

Playa Vista, Marina del Rey, 5 to 7 p.m.

Silicon Valley of LA (Playa Vista) Tour Saturday, Jan. 1 Come and visit beautiful Playa Vista, a community built in 2003 that included a new elementary school, a library and a preserved area of the wetlands just east of Playa del Rey and north of LAX. Playa Vista is also known as Silicon Valley South due to companies like Google and YouTube calling it home. This tour will show you the outside of the legendary aircraft hangar that was used

by Hughes Aircraft Company and later Boeing and movie studios for filming the movies “Titanic” and “Independence Day.” Google has transformed the aircraft hangers into a unique office space. The tour will start at Google’s offices then make its way to the heart of Playa Vista, where there are businesses such as a movie theatre, CVS and restaurants. The tour will end at Sol Mexican Cocina for mingling. Tickets cost $18.50 to $25. Register at eventbrite.com/e/siliconvalley-of-la-playa-vista-tourtickets-221236112167 Spruce Goose Hangar, 16 S. Campus Center Dr., Los Angeles, 1 to 3:30 p.m.

We are Committed to Excellence & Comfort Your comfort during dental care is just as important as your results, we look forward to treating you in a secure, friendly environment.

Marina Dentistry ALL DENTAL SPECIALTIES

• Easy Payment Plans/Zero Interest • No Insurance • No Problem • All Insurance Accepted • Nitrous Oxide Available • We Accept All Other Competitors’ Coupons • Se Habla Español

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DENTAL IMPLANT

699

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ABUTMENT AND CROWN ARE EXTRA NEW PATIENTS ONLY WITH AD NOW THROUGH 12-31-21

PORCELAIN VENEERS $ 699Each. REG 1,400 COMPLETE $

NEW PATIENTS ONLY WITH THIS AD EXP 12-31-21

PORCELAIN CROWN $

DENTURE $

BUILD UP IF NEEDED IS EXTRA PORCELAIN FUSED TO METAL NEW PATIENTS ONLY WITH THIS AD EXP 12-31-21

NEW PATIENTS ONLY WITH THIS AD EXP 12-31-21

399 REG 999 $

799 REG 1800 $

MARINA DENTISTRY 4292 Lincoln Blvd., Marina del Rey, CA 90292 (Above Starbucks)

2500 FREE

CLEANING SPECIAL

www.marinadentistry.com

$2,999 WITH THIS AD. NOW THROUGH 12-31-21

TEETH WHITENING SPECIAL

89

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ONLY

00

Regular $749

ONE HOUR IN-OFFICE ZOOM! WHITENING AS SEEN ON ABC’S “EXTREME MAKEOVER” INCLUDES X-RAYS & EXAM

Cannot Be Combined With Any Other Offer

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X-Rays, Exams, Cleaning, Oral Cancer Screening, TMJ Evaluation, Diagnosis & Treatment Plan

NEW PATIENTS ONLY!

Periodontal Root Planning Not Included • With Coupon Only • Insurance Programs Billed At Regular Fees • Exp. 12-31-21

CONSULTATION INCLUDING FULL MOUTH X-RAYS & EXAMINATION NEW PATIENTS ONLY EXP 12-31-21

DEEP CLEANING

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310-305-9600 PLAYA VISTA DIRECT | DECEMBER 2021 39

A B OU T THE A SS I L E Y E I NSTI TU TE • The Assil Eye Institute is nationally recognized for its compassionate patient-centric care, its commitment to pioneering advances in ophthalmology and its dedication to supporting the health and well-being of not just its patients, but also of their community.

• Dr. Assil’s life-long commitment to advancing the field of ophthalmology is evident in his body of work developing new surgical techniques and advances in laser surgery.

• Dr. Assil lectures internationally and has taught state-of-the art surgical skills to well over 10,000 thousand ophthalmologists worldwide.

Dr. John May, Dr. Avneet K. Sodhi Gaur, Dr. Kerry Assil, Dr. Lindsay Harris

• The Assil Eye Institute has participated in dozens of FDA clinical trials, either as lead investigator or as a member of a multi-center team, testing new ophthalmological devices and surgical techniques.

A B O U T DR. AVN EET K. SOD H I G A U R • Dr. Sodhi Gaur is a Board Certified, Fellowship trained Cataract, Refractive, and Glaucoma Specialist, with training and experience developed at nationally renowned ophthalmic institutions. She serves as the Director of the Glaucoma Service at Assil Eye Institute.

• She has performed thousands of glaucoma, refractive (LASIK, PRK, ICL), and cataract surgeries including implantation of the latest premium intraocular lenses with Optiwave Refractive Analysis (ORA) system and Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery.

• She has been featured in Angeleno Magazine 2019 Los Angeles Power Players section as one of the top extraordinary inspiring individuals and she is highly regarded among her patients and peers leading her to be voted multiple times as one of Los Angeles Top Doctors and Super Doctor Rising Stars.

• She is a local Playa Vista resident and enjoys working out, cooking, traveling and spending quality time with her husband and two boys.

G OO G L E R E VI EWS: “I just got my lasik completed and I cannot tell you how excited and happy I am with the result.

I was told Dr. Sodhi Gaur was the best and that I would not be disappointed, and they were

right. From the consultation to having 20/15 vision, only took 1 week. I never dreamed I would be able to see clearly so quickly and without much pain or discomfort! “

“Professional staff as well as elegant waiting rooms, with all safety protocols in place during these challenging times.”

“I was wearing ‘Readers’ and my distance vision was starting to

assileye.com

fade so I went to Assil Eye for a consultation, and thanks to Dr. Gaur and the phenomenal team at Assil Eye, I’m now glasses free in my early 50’s! Couldn’t be happier!”

450 N. Roxbury Dr., 3rd Floor | Beverly Hills, CA | 90210 | 310-651-2300 2222 Santa Monica Blvd., Suite 107 | Santa Monica, CA | 90404 | 310-382-5050

@avneetsodhigaurmd @assileye 40 PLAYA VISTA DIRECT | DECEMBER 2021