Westchester/Playa HomeTown News March 2022 edition

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AYSO AYSOSETS SETSGOAL GOALFOR FORFIELD FIELDIMPROVEMENTS IMPROVEMENTSATAT ATNEILSEN NEILSEN AYSO SETS GOAL FOR FIELD IMPROVEMENTS NEILSEN ...page ...page 4 44 ...page

Community Community invited invited toto to Community invited Art Art Show Show && Competition &Competition Competition Art Show ...page ...page 18 1818 ...page

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Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

This Month Brings You

help you prom help you prom nization or even l a c o L p Sho nization orin 20even 22!

A look inside your HTN

AYSO sets goal for Nielsen Field improvements Traveling back in time with WPHS Spring is in the air in Westchester/Playa NCWP Monthly Update

In Pictures: Clean UP Westchester

04 10 14 24 26

HOMETOWN STAFF/CONTRIBUTORS Stephanie Davis, Publisher

Jeff Blair, Contributing Writer Fay Craton, Contributing Writer

Lydia Smith, Contributing Writer Consuelo Israelson, Contributing Writer

Front page: A collage of AYSO photos that highlight the work that needs to be done on the field. Photos courtesy AYSO families.

About The HomeTown News (HTN)

The HomeTown News is a monthly community newspaper dedicated to providing information about the people, events and happenings of Westchester, Playa del Rey, Marina del Rey and Playa Vista. Look for the HomeTown News the first Thursday of the month at your home or at one of our drop-off locations.

Connect with the HTN:

Mailing Address: 8939 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Ste. 110 #745 Westchester, CA 90045 • Email: westchesterhometown@yahoo.com • Website: thehtn.com • Facebook: facebook.com/thehtn • Instagram: instagram.com/thehometownnews The deadline for submissions is the 22nd of each month.

act us for rates and act us for rates and hesterhometo Now, more than ever, Westchester retailers and service providers need your help. Slammed by the pandemic, our small businesses need

hesterhometo your help to survive. Please make “Shop Local” your

mantra for 2022 – it’s not just a slogan, it helps keep the businesses we love and the families they support alive!

us on Faceboo to-date with news and us on Faceboo Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

March 2022 • Page 3

AYSO Region 7 Commissioner, Gregg Deluga, poses at Nielsen Field with spotty grass in the background.

Community spotlight: AYSO looks for support to raise funds for improvements at Nielsen Field Since 1983, Nielsen Field has been a community hub where kids play sports, parents take their turn at the snack shack selling hot dogs and fond memories are made of scoring the winning goal or hitting a home run.

And with 3,000 kids using the space annually for soccer, softball and baseball, the field, located on Will Rodgers Street just north of Westchester Parkway, is well-loved and well-used. It could definitely use a refresh, so the volunteer leaders behind AYSO Region 7 are calling on the community to join them in making the athletic fields better and safer for all youth athletes.

For AYSO Region 7 Commissioner Gregg Deluga, now is the perfect time to launch a fundraising effort for Nielsen West Field.

AYSO’s spring season has a record enrollment of nearly 540 budding Lionel Messis and Megan Rapinoes and the wear on the field is increasingly noticeable.

Page 4 • March 2022

While there are some divots and muddy patches, the spotty grass is what’s really stopping the ball from rolling—literally. The field’s makeup of a mixture of bald spots, good grass and weeds can cause the ball to bounce instead of roll, creating a less than ideal situation when your team makes a great kick and is looking to score a goal. The current field uses reclaimed water from the West Basin, and with the water’s high salt content, grass has difficulty growing and remaining healthy. The good news, however, is that new types of grass have been developed to thrive in this type of environment.

Deluga explains that the grass they plan to use is the same one the Rams football team practices on and other professional leagues use. While many ask him about changing out all the grass for artificial turf, that material has numerous drawbacks including being hot to play on and rough on the knees, in addition to being pricey.

“We don’t usually do fundraising for AYSO,” said Deluga who has been the soccer league’s commissioner for the last two years. “We don’t have big donors yet, so we’re looking to make this a real grassroots effort. It’s a huge deal when you have a great community asset like this. If we can get to the point where the field looks great, then it’s a real point of pride for everyone.”

The goal is to raise $85,000, which will be enough to complete phase 1 of the “refresh project. During that phase, Nielsen West Field, used primarily by AYSO Region 7 (open to players from Westchester, Playa del Rey, Playa Vista, Marina del Rey, Lennox and Inglewood) and Westchester Little League, would be leveled and resodded. The hope is that the project would gain enough donors and momentum to move on to phase 2 where the entirety of Nielsen Field would be upgraded for all youth athletes’ benefit.

“The kids should all have a decent field to play on,” said Deluga. “It’s not fair for the kids who have been playing for a long time to finally make it to the big field and then have the ball bounce all over the place. It would be nice if the field was flat.”

Deluga says running a youth sports league like AYSO is already a team effort—everything is run by volunteers who take out the trash, mow the lawns and do maintenance wherever it is needed—so he’s confident the neighborhood will come together to support making improvements to the field where so many families spend weekend after weekend, year after year.

The community rallied in a similar fashion in 2005, when Nielsen needed its dirt parking lot paved. If enough money is raised, the plan is to start work this summer in the off season, so that in the fall the Carl Nielsen Youth Park will be well on (continued on next page)

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

AYSO field (cont’d) (continued from previous page) its way to its glory days. The updates may even spark some additional improvements. A controlled access gate with a security system, murals, updated signage and a cleat-cleaning station are all on a wish list of projects that volunteers would love to see.

“We get out here, and do what we can,” said Deluga. “You just have to get out on the field and volunteer to get things done.”

Interested in supporting AYSO Region 7 and the Youth Foundation’s goal to refresh Nielsen Field?

Consider becoming a Supporter at the $1 to $999 level; a Silver Sponsor at the $1,000 to $1,999 level; or a Gold Sponsor at the $2,000 to $5,000 level. Organizers are also hoping to find a $25,000 title sponsor, who will receive naming rights for Nielsen West Field.

Email refreshnielsen@gmail.com or click the QR code below to learn more.

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Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

March 2022 • Page 5

Business & Nonprofit News

TheHTN.com

“Clue” readies for March 18 opening night at the Westchester Playhouse.

Kentwood Players are welcoming audiences to their next play, “Clue.”

The play is based on the popular movie, which was based on the iconic Hasbro board game of the same name.

“Clue” is a comedic murder mystery whodunit that takes place in a remote mansion. When six guests get together for an unusual dinner party, the host turns up dead and everyone is a suspect.

Opening night is Friday, March 18, and the play will run through Saturday, April 9. Performances are held on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. A matinee performance takes place on Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. The Kentwood Players perform at the Westchester Playhouse, located at 8301 Hindry Ave. in Westchester.

Reserved tickets are $22 and can be purchased at kentwoodplayers.org, by emailing boxoffice@kentwoodplayers. org or by calling (310) 645-5156.

Hannon Foundation joins Founder’s Circle at WPHS. The William H. Hannon Foundation recently announced that they have awarded a grant to the Westchester/ Playa Historical Society (WPHS).

With this donation, the foundation becomes a member of the Founder’s Circle for the WPHS Discovery Center.

“We are honored, pleased and greatly appreciative of the generosity of the William H. Hannon Foundation, Page 6 • March 2022

Photo by Gloria Plunkett Photography.

Pictured: Jane St. John, RE/MAX Estate Properties, poses with the firefighters at Playa Vista’s Station 67 as part of the LAX Coastal Chamber’s Protectors’ Appreciation Week in February.

During the event, more than 50 baskets filled with goodies and gifts supplied by sponsors were delivered to area fire stations, hospitals, the sheriff’s department and the LAPD as a way to say “thank you.” Restaurants like Cantalini’s, Tony P’s Dockside Grill, the Melody Bar & Grill, Sharkey’s and Benny’s Tacos also showed their support by catering lunches for different departments; and Westchester Lutheran and Carousel School students made cards that were included in the baskets. The week-long event was able to show appreciation to more than 1,500 protectors this year, its largest reach yet according to chamber President/CEO Chad Maender.

The cast of “Clue” get ready to welcome guests to the Westchester Playhouse with performances starting March 18.

“We could not be happier to supin support of the Westchester/Playa port the WPHS and their impressive Historical Society’s mission. This Discovery Center. Westchester is a grant will further enable our ability wonderful community and the center to meet our goals to gather, study, provides not only a home for the docpreserve and share the rich history uments and stories that built the comof the Westchester/Playa region,” munity, but a place where people can said Cozette Vergari, President of the learn about the names behind it,” said WPHS Board.

Hannon Foundation Board Member The foundation’s founder, William and longtime Westchester resident H. Hannon, is featured prominently David Herbst. “I had the opportunity in the Discovery Center for his to work with William Hannon and contributions, both philanthropic saw firsthand his support of our local and as a real estate developer in schools and community organizations.

Westchester and Playa del Rey. He would be very pleased that his Alongside close friend and mentor foundation is supporting WPHS and Fritz B. Burns, Hannon built and the Discovery Center, as this area was sold homes in the area to veterans very special to him.” returning from World War II. Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del

Congregation welcomes new leadership.

The Westchester congregation of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints recently changed the leader of its congregation. On February 13, Bishop Michael Tanner concluded his service after having served for five years. The new Bishop is Brandon Davis. Hyrum Lai and Tobin Jaramillo will serve as the new counselors to Bishop Davis. Both the bishop and his counselors are longtime residents of Westchester.

Leaders in an LDS congregation are lay people and serve without compensation. Bishop Davis is an attorney with Nossaman LLP and practices law in the public works projects area. He and his wife, Jenika, are the parents of three children.

He grew up in Northern California, but he and his wife settled in Westchester 14 years ago.

“We fell in love with the people of Westchester. More than anything, we felt like we belonged here. It was already home,” said Davis.

LMU hosts Paderewski Piano Competition.

Tickets are now available to attend the Paderewski Piano Competition at LMU on March 21 through March 25.

The winner’s concert and reception is scheduled for Saturday, March 26. The competition will see 28 semifinalists compete at the Murphy Recital Hall. (continued on next page)

Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

Rendering courtesy Starburst.

The parking lot adjacent to Flowers by Felicia and Tanner’s Coffee at 200 Culver Blvd. will be transformed on Saturday, March 5 with a pop-up market filled with Starburst’s newest invention: Starburst Airs. Visitors will be treated to samples and photo ops.

(continued from previous page) The pianists hail from Canada, China, Poland, Russia, South Korea, Taiwan, Vietnam and the United States.

The Drollinger Family Charitable Foundation is sponsoring the $10,000 grand prize and Fidelity Investments is the sponsor of the $5,000 second prize. In addition to the $10,000 prize, the winner will be given the opportunity to perform concerts in the U.S., France, Italy and Poland. The competition carries on the legacy of Ignacy Jan Paderewski, a celebrated concert pianist and composer, who was also a leader in the Polish fight for independence after World War I and the nation’s prime minister. More info and tickets can be purchased at paderewskimusicsociety.org.

Starburst invites community to check out new gummies at inflatable pop-up market.

Starburst is hosting its first-ever Starburst Airs Market in Playa del Rey on Saturday, March 12 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The pop-up event will showcase the popular candy’s newest product– Starburst Airs Gummies–with a fully immersive, inflatable market. Guests will have the opportunity to browse the aisles stocked with inflatable foods and household essentials with a twist, while posing for photo opportunities.

Visitors will be among the first to get a taste of the new gummies before they’re available nationwide in April.

Attendees must be 16 or older, unless accompanied by an adult. All COVID guidelines will be followed.

The pop-up will take place at 200 Culver Blvd. in Playa del Rey in the Legado parking lot. To celebrate having the pop-up on their property, Legado will be making donations to Westside Pacific Villages, Grass Roots Neighbors and doing a giveaway to support their other tenants located on site.

Westchester Rotary announces its 2022 Citizen of the Year.

The Westchester Rotary Club

Robert Milligan, Partner Business, Intellectual Property and Employment Counseling & Litigation (310) 201-1579 rmilligan@seyfarth.com Sharpe will be recognized as the Citizen of the Year by the Westchester Rotary Club on April 9.

has announced that it has selected Westchester resident, John Sharpe, as its 2022 Citizen of the Year.

Sharpe is being recognized for his work in the community, which includes founding and producing the Westchester Arts & Music Block Party, serving on the board of the Westchester Family YMCA, and launching the area’s first 24/7 community food pantry.

The club will honor Sharpe at its April 9 Spring Fundraiser, “Come Fly With Me,” at the LAX Flight Path Museum. The event is the club’s largest fundraiser of the year and raises money to support the Makeover Project, scholarships, nonprofits and more.

Visit rotary-westchester.com for more information.

Donate blood every Thursday in March at the YMCA. The Red Cross is teaming up with the Westchester YMCA for blood drives every Thursday in March from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Appointments can be made at RedCrossBlood.org. Use the sponsor code: YMCAWestchester.

The Westchester YMCA is located at 8015 S. Sepulveda Blvd. in Westchester.

Have info to share about your business or nonprofit? Email us at westchesterhometown@yahoo.com.

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

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March 2022 • Page 7

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Page 8 • March 2022

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

Thank You! ...to the sellers and buyers, cooperating brokers and agents, escrow companies, title companies, termite companies, home inspectors and contractors, gardeners, handymen, and cleaning companies…that all play an important role in every transaction today!

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Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

March 2022 • Page 9

Traveling back in time through Westchester/Playa

By Cozette Vergari Jumping back on board our time travel machine, we continue our adventures into the past and, as a reminder, we board each time from today’s Westchester/Playa geographic footprint. Though we’ve been standing still, our time machine has magically taken us from 65,000 BCE to the 20th century. Our last adventure took us forward from 1912 and the first of many air races at Mines Field, then a small airfield set in the rural outskirts of the city of Los Angeles and located at what is now the eastern edge of LAX. We sped forward and stopped in the 1920s, where we saw a young Fritz B. Burns, just 22-years-old, opening the land sales office for Palisades del Rey, which still stands and today is home to Tanner’s Coffee Co., as well as Flowers by Felicia among others.

It is located where Culver Boulevard makes its turn south and becomes Vista Del Mar. The Surfridge land development project sat on the cliffs above. The crash of Black Tuesday on October 29 dramatically interrupted these two developments and was the moment in time we last witnessed.

We have now stopped in the 1930s, a time of desperation for many. We see from our time machine, Fritz B. Burns living in a tent at what we now know as Toe’s Beach, despite owning several pieces of undeveloped real estate in the area. In an attempt to rally his resources, we see Burns negotiating the purchase of the former dormitories from the 1932 Los Angeles Olympiad Village in Baldwin Hills. After record-breaking heat in the summer of 1931, which hovered around 100 degrees for the entire summer, and seeing as many as 350,000 people fleeing to the

An undated aerial photo of the bluffs and what is now Playa Vista. Photo courtesy the WPHS.

beaches between what is now Playa del Rey and the Ocean Park Pier in Santa Monica, Burns recognizes the potential popularity of beach living and foresees relocating and using the Olympic dormitories as rental cottages. We also witness Burns enlisting the Herndon Oil Company to prospect for oil on his real properties.

The 1932 Los Angeles Summer Olympics had been a financial disaster, with less than half of the countries that participated in the 1928 summer games choosing to attend due to the worldwide

economic downturn set off by Black Tuesday. President Herbert Hoover became the first sitting head of a government to miss their country’s hosted Olympics. We notice the organizers are selling anything and everything in an effort to recover from their financial losses. After successful negotiations and acquiring the dormitories, we are watching Burns arrange for their relocation to the beach where he is living and renaming it to Olympic Beach.

Moving east from the beach, we are seeing the success of Loyola University on the bluffs of what is

now Westchester, surrounded by nothing but farmland, a few homes and a few rundown farmhouses.

Initially, the bluffs had been targeted for the Del Rey Hills land development, and would have been parcels of land sold to potential homeowners. Harry Culver, the founder of Culver City, donated 100 acres of what was to be Del Rey Hills to build and relocate the Loyola College of Los Angeles, from what is now Loyola High School, to the bluffs on the east side of Lincoln Boulevard in 1929. (continued on next page)

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Bring donations of non-perishable food to Covenant Presbyterian Chuch. Volunteers and money donations also welcomed and encouraged!

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Page 10 • March 2022

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

History (cont’d) (continued from previous page) Loyola College of Los Angeles earned university status by 1930 after opening its campus on the bluffs. Culver and Burns had also jointly donated 100 acres on the bluffs west of Lincoln Boulevard to build a Lutheran college, which never came to fruition.

Moving southwest from the bluffs, we witness the boom of aviation in this footprint. Mines Field, the site for the newly opened (1930) airport servicing the city of Los Angles is now being purchased by the city in 1937. The main airport for Los Angeles at this moment in time is the Grand Central Airport in Glendale. However, at this same time in the 1930s, we start to see the aircraft manufacturing industry swell, and this area becoming the major center of aviation-related industry. We observe large plants being built for Douglas Aircraft, North American Aviation and Howard Hughes Aircraft.

It is 1938, and we are back standing atop the bluffs. After years of serious flooding, which even caused deaths to some residing throughout the Los Angeles region, we find ourselves looking down on what is now Playa Vista and Marina del Rey. The area is completely underwater due to a pair of oceanic storms. The storms have made the area inaccessible by normal transportation for months. The water level of the intersection of Lincoln and Jefferson Boulevards is 20 feet deep. Ballona Creek, which weaves throughout the region for nearly 15 miles from the ocean inland, has caused repeated devastation to developing communities in Los Angeles. Out of necessity for safety to the emerging neighborhoods in Los Angeles, the creek is being channelized by the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers. As we observe them, they line the creek with concrete and boulders brought more than 26 miles from Catalina Island on barges.

At the same time, in 1938, we make an about-face in our time-

travel machine and witness the birth of the Woman’s Club of Playa del Rey. The organization still continues to serve our local community today with the mission to promote civic improvement, cultural interest and philanthropy.

Stay tuned for our next journey, which will take us into the 1940s and 50s, where we will see the leadership of female pioneers in our local community. Honoring those women of history—or “herstory–” the Westchester/Playa Historical Society will open its next exhibition on March 20 at the Discovery Center.

The “Celebrating Women” exhibit is very generously being sponsored by the Woman’s Club of Playa del Rey and coincides with National Women’s Month. The exhibit will run through May 15 and is open to the public each Sunday between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. or otherwise by appointment.

Following that exhibit, the WPHS will open the “Commemorating Veterans” exhibit. The exhibit will run from May 29 through June 26.

If you know a Westchester/ Playa area veteran that we can honor in the exhibit (including posthumously), we invite you to submit their names, photos and their branch of service. Please submit to info.wphistorical@gmail. com.

In the meantime, visit the Westchester/Playa Historical Society Discovery Center in the Westchester Triangle during its operating hours or by appointment. Learn more at wphistoricalsociety.org. The Discovery Center is located in the Westchester Triangle at 6207 W. 87th Street in Westchester.

Cozette is an attorney and lifelong resident of Westchester. She is the President of the Westchester/Playa Historical Society. Together with a group of dedicated volunteers, the organization is working on creating new programming and events to celebrate the history of the area and engage the community in preserving it for future generations.

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March 2022 • Page 11

SCENE Spring Time is Coming to Playa Vista!

Our 3 Favorite Ways to Stay Fit in Playa Vista One of the greatest things about the Playa Vista lifestyle is the walkability and outdoor spaces! For those that want to kick up their exercise routine a bit, there are also some phenomenal fitness options readily available.

COMMUNITY SOCIAL WELLNESS SERIES

CHRIS P. CYCLE MAR 4 | 5:30 PM brought to you by

Here are a few of our favorite ways to get fit in Playa Vista...

1

Maverick Community

Register at PlayaVista.Events

Silicon Beach Real Estate professionals Kris Zacuto | COMPASS and Vivian Lesny & Co. have teamed up this month with Maverick Community to bring a series of free fitness events to the community!

Registration is now open for their launch event, which takes place on Friday, March 4 at 5:30 p.m. Take a fun and invigorating class with fitness professional @Chrisvpipkinsc! Then after the workout, join Kris and Vivian on RUNWAY at Joliet for a round of refreshments, music and fun!

This is a great way to kick-start your weekend with a 45-minute cycle and socializing with your neighbors!

2

RVIVL

Fitness recovery center, RVIVL, opens in Playa Vista this March! With a variety of fitness recovery options including red and NIR light therapy, vitamin IV drips, an infrared sauna, ice baths, and InBody analysis, RVIVL is an amazing addition to the fitness world in Playa Vista and surrounding areas.

Lookout for RVIVL coming soon to RUNWAY!

3

Sender One

For a unique workout experience that is sure to take you to the next level, you have to check out Sender One Playa Vista. Their space on RUNWAY offers more than 7,000-square-feet of essential bouldering terrain, a tension board and a tread wall, as well as a fitness area. There are also climbing classes, a new HIIT the Rock class and a kids’ climbing academy. Join Sender One to connect with new people and old friends through climbing!

All events & places are located at RUNWAY Playa Vista at 12746 W. Jefferson Blvd. in Playa Vista.

Page 12 • March 2022

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

OPEN ENROLLMENT Join our Panther family!

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March 2022 • Page 13 Sports Programs 76 percentile

8

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ENJOY WESTCHESTER/PLAYA WESTCHESTER/PLAYA WESTCHESTER WESTCHESTER THIS MONTH MONTH BY...

THIS MONTH Getting out into nature Right in our backyard is approximately 600 acres of protected wetlands and last month one of the Ballona Wetlands trails reopened! The Fiji Trail is now available to visit Wednesday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The trail is accessible by entering the gate across from Fisherman’s Village on Fiji Way. Spring is a great time to try out this easy trail, take some nature photos and hope to catch a glimpse of the more than 250 species of bird that have been observed in the wetlands. Along the trail are numerous benches so visitors can stop and enjoy the clean air and open space. If walking the trail gets you interested in learning more about this important habitat, visit the Friends of Ballona Wetlands at ballonafriends.org and check out their volunteer opportunities that include clean-ups and restoration days.

Finding our what produce is in season

Getting dirty in the Emerson Ave. Garden

In addition to being a great place to stock up on seasonal produce and artisanal foods, the farmers’ market provides a range of programming and activities focused on building community. Visit the info booth near The Book Jewel to learn about upcoming special event market days that feature added community booths and fun.

The Emerson Avenue Community Garden always has exciting things going on, and just in time to kick-off the growing season, they will be hosting “Let’s Talk Dirt.” The soil and planting workshop will take place on Sunday, March 13 from 12:30 to 1:45 p.m. This informative workshop will be held at the community garden on Emerson Ave. at 80th Place and is offered free of charge, but donations are always welcome. The workshop will be led by Joanne Poyourow, a founding designer of the garden. The workshop will cover topics like organic soil for vegetables and fruit trees, mulch vs compost, the importance of building living soil and the truth about mycorrhizae. Everyone is encouraged to bring all your dirt-related questions! For more information and to learn about upcoming events, visit eacgc.org.

Growing flowers

The Westchester Mental Health Guild (WMHG) is always looking for new ways to support the Airport Marina Counseling Service and promote good mental health in our community. A great way to do both is by growing flowers!

Gardening has been known to improve your mood, and in today’s world, everyone could use a mental health boost! This month, WMHG is participating in a flower power fundraiser and is inviting the community to visit their website and get planting. A portion of the proceeds from buying bulbs and seeds that will grow into beautiful flowers, herbs and veggies will go to the nonprofit. Visit WMHG.fpfundraising.com to view the catalog and order.

Dining al fresco at a local restaurant

Sunny days call for delicious dining al fresco at a great restaurant like Café Solar. Café Solar offers indoor/outdoor dining for breakfast and lunch with a hip, cozy and welcoming vibe.

Delicious offerings such as ricotta toast and housemade crepes will make your breakfast a delightful experience, while a fennel and arugula salad for lunch is the perfect springtime meal.

Café Solar is located at 6224 West Manchester Ave. in Westchester.

Page 14 • March 2022

Taking in a ball game

One of the hallmarks of springtime is taking in a baseball game on a beautiful day. If you like the smell of hot dogs and the crunch of peanuts, spend a Saturday cheering on the teams playing in the Westchester Little League or Del Rey American Little League. Games are starting up soon and are held at Nielsen Youth Park and Del Rey Lagoon Field.

Page by Lydia Smith.

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

Photos by Zsuzsi Steiner.

If you haven’t visited the Westchester Farmers’ Market lately, spring is the best time to visit! The market is open every Sunday in the Westchester Triangle from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

A Younger home gets noticed.

Our listings attracted over 3 million digital views - generating more than 500 offers from qualified buyers. Connect with us to build a marketing strategy for your home. stephanieyounger.com

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

March 2022 • Page 15

CALLING ALL PARADE PARTICIPANTS, SPONSORS AND VOLUNTEERS! We need your support to make the 2022 parade our best yet!

PLANNING IS NOW UNDERWAY FOR THE 22ND ANNUAL

FOURTH OF JULY

PARADE 2022 THEME!

EMAIL LAXCOASTALONPARADE@GMAIL.COM BY MARCH 14

Email us to receive more information and stay tuned for participant packets going out soon!

Page 16 • March 2022

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

THANK YOU

Spring Well-Being

to our sponsors

DIAMOND SPONSORS:

into

celebration

RUBY SPONSORS: chester Ment est al W

PMS 581C

JANE ST. JOHN He

alth Guild

Fritz Coleman

2022 COMMUNITY BUILDER Valeria Velasco Vice President Board of Airport Commissioners, Los Angeles World Airports

MASTER OF CEREMONIES NBC4 Weathercaster Fritz Coleman

Thursday, May 19, 2022

|

GOLD SPONSORS: Judy and Daniel Dews Janie Guthrie Skjervem and Mark Skjervem Inn at Playa de Rey Kaiser Permanente Julie Porter Southwest Airlines SILVER SPONSOR: AvAirPros Burns Engineering The HomeTown News The Luboviski Family Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary Rotary Club of Westchester Law Office of Edgar Saenz United Airlines

6:00pm

Location TBD Join Janie Guthrie Skjervem, Event Chair and Airport Marina Counseling Service as we honor Valeria Velasco, Vice President, Board of Airport Commissioners, Los Angeles World Airports, as the 2022 Community Builder

Cocktails

6:00PM

Dinner

7:00PM

BRONZE SPONSORS: Suzette and Ed Barden Cantalini’s Salerno Beach Mary Ellen Cassman Dan Cohen Loyola Marymount University Linda Peterson Quigley and Miron Ramey Law, PC Regatta Capital Group, LLC Rotarians Fighting Human Trafficking

For information regarding sponsorship opportunities please contact Bill Morgan at bmorgan@amcshelps.com

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

March 2022 • Page 17

A sampling of the student artwork that will be displayed in the Westchester Triangle as part of the LAX Coastal Education Foundation’s Second Annual Art Show & Competition.

Community invited to view student artwork at Second Annual Art Show & Competition fundraiser.

Local K-12 students are using their artistic skills to share what they love most about their schools for the LAX Coastal Education Foundation’s (LAXCEF) Second Annual Art Show & Competition.

Starting Friday, March 4 at 5 p.m. through March 18, 115 pieces of artwork will be displayed in the Westchester Triangle. The drawings, with the theme “My favorite thing about my school” are the winning pieces created by students at 14 area schools. Each campus held its own competition before submitting the artwork to LAXCEF. The community is invited and encouraged to view the artwork at The Book Jewel, Tanner’s Sewing and Vacuum, Ayara Thai and Covered by

Page 18 • March 2022

More State Farm Insurance Agency.

“We are thrilled to be able to highlight the work of our talented local student artists during this event,” said event chair Lory Sarlo. “Last year, the students showed a real sense of pride visiting their artwork and seeing people in the Triangle enjoying what they had created. After you view the art, we welcome the community to scan our posters to learn more about the foundation and donate to support arts education.”

The artwork will be judged by local community leaders and artists in a variety of age categories. The top three artists in each group will receive an arts scholarship, and the first place winners will receive an art class courtesy of Otis College.

“A big thank you to our teachers and administrators for coordinating the artwork, and our business sponsors for supporting our efforts to raise

funds for arts education,” said Sarlo.

“Many of our schools are still facing fundraising challenges, so events like this can really make a difference in having stocked art supplies in the classroom and being able to enhance programs in theater, music and more.”

This year’s event sponsors include The Drollinger Family Charitable Foundation, the Hannon Foundation, Stephanie Younger Group, Sarlo Income Tax, SoCalGas, Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary, Westchester Rotary, JANEFF, Otis College and Truxton’s.

All foundation schools will be eligible to apply for $2,500 grants to support their arts projects and programs.

Participating schools are Visitation, St. Jerome, Playa Del Rey Elementary, Goethe, Loyola Village Elementary School, Cowan Elementary School, WISH Community School, WISH Academy High School, Kentwood

Elementary School, Westchester Lutheran School, Playa Vista Elementary School, Wright STEAM Magnet Middle School, Carousel School and St. Bernard High School.

Learn more at laxcef.org.

Local educators receive funds at 25th Annual Teacher Mini Grant Awards Breakfast.

Local teachers are celebrating receiving more than $17,000 in mini-grants courtesy of the Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary Club and event sponsors.

Now in its 25th year, the event is a way for the service club to support programs and the purchase of classroom supplies that teachers often pay for out of their own pockets. The $250 grants are used for books, musical instruments, science experiment kits, craft supplies and more. (continued on next page)

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

At left: Members of the Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary and the LAX Coastal Education Committee pose with local teachers and administrators during the Teacher Mini Grant Breakfast last month.

Photo courtesy Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary. At right: St. Monica students perform at The Showcase arts event. Courtesy St. Monica High School.

(continued from previous page) This year, 71 grants were awarded to teachers from 21 schools at the February 9 Rotary Club breakfast in partnership with the LAX Coastal Chamber’s Education Committee.

Major sponsors of this program include the LAX Coastal Education Foundation, M&M Foundation, Playa Sunrise Rotary Foundation, Rotary District 5280, Sarlo Income Tax and Westchester Secondary Charter School.

St. Monica students showcase the arts at performance night.

St. Monica Catholic Schools kicked off Catholic Schools Week festivities

with The Showcase, a new visual and performing arts event put on by students direct from St. Monica’s TK-12 classrooms. The evening was hosted by senior Tommy G., the Associated Student Body President who has committed to attend the University of Notre Dame, and Zoe M., the middle school Student Council President. Following Msgr. Lloyd Torgerson’s welcome to everyone, the students introduced their classmates’ song, instrumental and dance numbers. Featuring performances from “Encanto,” “The Office” and “Phantom of the Opera” to jazz, modern and tap dance routines, The Showcase culminated in a grand finale

with chorale singers and liturgical dancers performing “Build a Family,” a song with special meaning to the St. Monica community.

The arts appreciation night also featured middle and upper school student improv and acting skits, a rap performance by Emmanuelle S., an eighth-grade finalist in the national Latinx Identities Contest by Flocabulary, and a medley of Spanish songs from the enhanced Transitional Kindergarten to eighth grade language program performed by first-, secondand third-graders. In addition to a variety of popular food trucks, the audience was treated to an art walk spanning TK students’ nature scenes

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

to advanced photography.

Following The Showcase, themed days at St. Monica schools celebrated St. Monica parish, one of the largest Catholic parishes in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, as well as the local community, the schools’ faculty and staff, school families and of course, the students. Activities included a food drive for Westside Food Bank, teacher appreciation lunches, pep rallies, family dodgeball tournaments and family/classroom Zoom calls offering a peek at the school day.

Have something to share about your school? Email us at westchesterhometown@yahoo.com.

March 2022 • Page 19

Random Notes/Opinion

TheHTN.com

Turn back the clock in three easy steps

By Jeff Blair

picking up a laundry basket, climbing a set of stairs or lifting a child. Muscle Opinion: Children often spend their also helps us control posture.

When we lose muscle strength, days running, climbing and riding bikes. As we settle into adult life in our stress shifts to the joints and this is one reason joint pain develops with age.

20s, physical activity usually slows.

Muscle serves as something of a shock Once we hit 30 and especially after absorber for our knees, shoulders 40, our bodies slowly lose muscle and and lower backs. Maintaining and strength. From 40 onward, we can lose 10 percent or more of our muscle increasing muscle strength has been each decade. Most people really begin connected with better brain health and to feel the effects of this process after lower risk of stroke and hypertension.

50 when a variety of muscle and joint For all these reasons, taking steps pains become common. Most of us to retain and build muscle is a great have been told we should strength choice for everyone over 40. train by our doctors. In this month’s One strength training myth deserves article, I will dig into the reasons quick consideration. If you are a for that recommendation and give female, you probably do not need to you three steps to feel and live much worry about becoming “big and bulky” better. from strength training. Men have While some muscle and strength loss dramatically more testosterone than is probably inevitable for most, we can women (often circulating as much as 15 times more), and testosterone is definitely slow and sometimes even the major muscle-building hormone in stop this process. Your first thought the body. It can be extremely difficult when you hear “building muscle” might be of some huge bodybuilder for women to develop “big and bulky” or superhuman professional athlete. muscles unless they are taking anabolic I refer to this as the “old game” of steroids.

Here are three ways to maintain strength training. The “new game” muscle and strength after age 40. is muscle is important for everyone.

1. Strength train. Strength training Muscle is instrumental in all human allows us to maintain the muscle we movement, whether the movement is

have and even add muscle. Strength training can also strengthen our bones. Performing two to three hours per week of full body strength training is usually adequate. You will want to perform exercises that strengthen your large muscle groups.

Exercises that strengthen the legs, back and abdominal areas are strength training staples. Seek out an exercise professional to help create a strength training program individualized for you and your personal goals.

2. Remain active in other ways.

Just as our childhood activity kept us strong as kids, staying active after 40 can help keep muscles and joints strong and healthy. Hiking, riding bikes and swimming all can help.

While strength training is the most effective way to maintain muscle and strength, all physical activity makes a difference.

3. Consume adequate amounts of protein. As we age, our bodies do not process protein as well as they once did. In addition to that, we often eat less protein as we get older. This combination poses a challenge since adequate protein intake is essential to maintain and build muscle.

Unfortunately, current protein intake

recommendations from different health agencies vary somewhat. The current RDA recommendations of 0.8 gram per kilogram of body weight is often considered inadequate for retaining and building muscle by many nutrition experts. This works out to approximately one-third a gram of protein per pound of body weight daily, but quite a bit of research calls that number into question. As a twohundred-pound active male, I aim for at least 150 grams per day. One helpful tip is to try and get 25 to 30 grams of protein with each meal.

Your first thought when you think of protein might be of a huge slab of meat, but there are many ways to get more protein into your diet. Vegans and vegetarian options include lentils, beans and quinoa. Please discuss adequate protein intake with your doctor or a registered dietician as individual needs may vary and medical conditions should be considered.

Jeff Blair (MS, CSCS) is celebrating 20 years as a certified personal trainer in 2022. He is also a fitness author and founder of the SoCalSport & Fitness Personal Training Studio in Westchester. Reach him at jeff@ socalsport.com with questions.

cash door prizes of $100-$300 10 games of bingo with $100 payout & final blackout card pays $500. raffle prizes. silent auction. fun!

Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary’s

Luck O’ The Irish Annual Bingofest! march 12, 2022, 6pm to 10pm visitation school, westchester

Admission includes dinner, entertainment and 10 bingo games!

All proceeds fund charitable rotary projects. $60/pp early bird special $70/pp after march 1 $500 table sponsor with 8 seats & recognition.

rsvp today: playavenice.org (310) 963-9494 Page 20 • March 2022

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

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Kentwood Home Guardians will be holding their 2022 Annual Member Meeting on SATURDAY, MAY 21 AT 1:00 PM! This is going to be an important year for all KHG Members to be heard on the pressing issues you have brought forward to the KHG Board. We need your turnout to support all those efforts.

Keep an eye out for your KHG ballot and see you at the...

PAID FOR BY FRIENDS OF KENTWOOD Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

March 2022 • Page 21

Finding well-being when living in tumultuous times

By Fay Craton

Opinion: For the past few years, we have all experienced continuous shocks to the framework of how we perceive and understand the world around us.

This past week, another blow to that framework happened with Russia’s attack on Ukraine. Collectively, people across the globe are alarmed. The destruction and ramifications created by this action are difficult to fully grasp.

This event is raising already stressed people to new levels of anxiety. My prayers are with all who are in harm’s way.

Each shocker layers on top of one another. We haven’t had a chance to adjust from one event, when the next appears. Our emotions and mental well-being are stretched a little bit with each episode. Each time creates a ripple of trauma within each of us and collectively in the communal emotional consciousness. Personally, I have felt anxiety and uncertainty generated from living in our tumultuous times. I know many others share in my experience.

What does this mean to you? For one thing, it may mean increased depression and/or anxiety about everyday life. If you had hopes, plans, or dreams about doing something specific and COVID, other illness, family changes/needs, job changes, or political conflict has blocked you, it is possible you may feel a sense of loss and depression. Or, if what you can anticipate in the future is uncertain, you may feel a sense of confusion, a loss of control, even possibly fear or anxiety.

You could even be experiencing a combination of depression and anxiety.

All the feelings and confusion triggering your uncomfortable mood can be very painful to experience. Be gentle with yourself. Most people have an internal dialogue judging what they are doing as good or bad. Your feelings are normal. If your internal dialogue is critical, tell it to be quiet.

Not only you, but others around you could easily be experiencing their own confusing moods as a result of the shocks. Just as your feelings are normal, so are theirs. Therefore, don’t get caught in the trap of thinking everyone else needs to accommodate your difficult mood. Your mood is your responsibility.

When moods take control of you, consider what life affirming actions have worked in the past to help you feel better. Life affirming actions do not include dysfunctional behaviors such as substance misuse, cheating on your spouse, or other addictive behaviors. If past solutions do not help, I strongly suggest you seek a mental health professional to assist you in Page 22 • March 2022

transforming your mood.

Living in tumultuous times might have another impact on you. For some, their experiences might be considered to be traumatic. If this is you, when experiencing trauma, your mind automatically shifts to a protective stance such as flight from the situation, fighting, freezing in order to hide, or mentally dissociating.

The trauma response comes from a different part of our brains than the part used to think and plan our days, and the trauma response can override the thinking part. People don’t get to choose their own trauma response, and science has not yet determined why one person will respond one way and another person will respond in a different way.

This means you, and people around you, may be reacting from a “flight, fight, freeze, or dissociate” brain function.

Not only are you attempting to manage your own stress, but you may also be confused or hurt by the way someone close to you is acting. For example, my “go-to” trauma response might be to “freeze.” If so, I might be unable to think clearly, or I might withdraw to sort out my feelings and thoughts. In the immediate aftermath of a trauma, I could be with someone who naturally will take “flight” or “fight” actions. If so, I could find their actions to be confusing or distancing. Alternatively, someone who has a “go-to” response of “fight” could be frustrated by my reaction. Because your trauma mind is different from the thinking part of your brain, now might not be a good time to make major life decisions. Patience with yourself and others is what is called for now.

After experiencing trauma, as early as possible, attempt to engage the positive habits you previously built for resilience and life success.

My wish is for you to live life with a sense of well-being. When life is tumultuous, it may take extra effort to claim hope, happiness, contentment and health. When the framework of how you perceive and understand the world has been disrupted, it will require you to first accept current reality. If you are in denial, you will not get to well-being. Well-being also requires developing life-enhancing habits. It can take work. Along the way, you may slip occasionally, but you deserve well-being and it is within your reach if you take one small step at a time.

Fay Craton, M.A. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (mfc40011), which is the psychology license specializing in relationships (with ourselves or with others). She provides video-based counseling and is located in Westchester. If you have any questions, please contact Fay at (310) 645-6762.

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THANK YOU to our advertisers and

community partners for supporting this publication!

Robin Zacha, Zacha Homes Drollinger Properties Stephanie Younger Group | Compass Jane St. John | RE/MAX Neighborhood Council Westchester/Playa Loyola Marymount University Westchester Lutheran School Westchester Town Center BID Airport Marina Counseling Service St. Anastasia School Visitation School Amy Nelson Frelinger Douglas Elliman Properties Westside Pacific Villages SoCalSport & Fitness Kris Zacuto | Compass Los Angeles World Airports Robert Milligan UCLA Health Westchester Rotary Club

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

March 6, 10:00 am March 13, 10:00 am

SPRING CROPS

March 20, 10:00 am March 27, 10:00 am April 3, 10:00 am April 10, 10:00 am April 14, 7:00 pm April 17, 8:30 am April 17, 10:30 am 7831 S. Sepulveda Blvd.

Westchester, Ca 90045 (310) 670-5422 www.WLCS.org

Happy Spring!

Join us every Sunday in the heart of downtown Westchester - so much in season and to choose from! Gorgeous fresh produce from local small farmers to over thirty local food businesses offering a wealth in artisanal foods. Live music, kids activities, community booths, follow us on social media for updates!

FOLLOW US FOR UPDATES!

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

March 2022 • Page 23

NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL OF WESTCHESTER / PLAYA Working together to improve our communities!

“If you do not take an interest in the affairs of your government, then you are doomed to live under the rule of fools.”

CWP~ Plato

Metro Provides Updates on New Transportation Projects Metro, Los Angeles’ transportation agency, serves as the county’s transportation planner and coordinator, designer, builder, and operator. More than 10 million people – nearly one-fourth of California’s residents – live, work and play within Metro’s 1,433-square-mile service area.

The Department recently issued the following updates: Office of Management and Budget: Fiscal Year 2023 Budget Workshops OMB will present at the regular meetings of Metro’s advisory councils and committees this month. Presentation topics include funding sources and priorities, and the process for approving this year’s budget. The project team recently launched a website with full details on briefings, reports, and budget survey results at: www.metrobudget.net/ Metro Community Relations Meetings Details and Zoom information can be found on the Metro website: www.metro.net • Public Safety Advisory Committee: March 2

at 5pm • Public Safety Advisory Committee: March 16 at 5pm • Central Los Angeles Area Construction Update Meeting: March 17 at 12pm • Crenshaw/LAX Transit Project Construction Update Meeting: March 31 at 6pm | Details: https://zoom.us/j/92426099853#success Looking for a Tap Card?

Student K-12 Tap Cards are available. Low Income Fare is available through Metro’s LIFE program. College and University students can access Tap Cards at www.metro.net/ riding/fares/collegevocational/. For all fare information, and program details please visit www.metro.net/riding/fares/ More Construction Update Meetings Metro’s Contruction Relations team hosts meetings to provide updates on construction activity for the Regional Connector, Purple Line Extension, and Crenshaw/LAX Transit Projects. The meetings are recorded, and available for review online. The recordings are available under the “All documents for this project” for each of the projects: www.metro. net/projects/

NCWP Decides to Focus Grant Program on Park The Neighborhood Council of Westchester Playa passed a motion to “create a theme and plan for the remainder of the fiscal year’s 2021-22 Neighborhood Council of Westchester / Playa’s budget allocated to neighborhood purpose grants (NPGs) and community improvement projects (CIPs) to focus on, but not be exclusive to, improving the aesthetics, accessibility and opportunities for community engagement in the Westchester Park.”

NPGs, or Neighborhood Purpose Grants, are a way for neighborhood councils to partner with and support nonprofit organizations and public schools on projects that provide a public benefit to the community. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) non-profits as well

as public schools. (Please note that grants cannot be issued to religious organizations or to private schools.)

These grants, which are typically between $500 and $5000, are awarded from the neighborhood council’s yearly budget.

A Neighborhood Purpose Grant must provide a demonstrable benefit to the community. An NPG activity should build community, enhance the neighborhood, and be open, accessible, and free to the general public.

To apply for a NPG, applicants should visit the City Clerk’s website for more details at www.tinyurl.com/2p853pwp

If you missed the exciting news about the Ocean Cleanup Interceptor in Ballona Creek and its implementation timeline, you can view the presentation and videos at www.ncwpdr.org/ interceptor-to-start-work-in-ballona-creek/. The Interceptor is designed to collect trash as it flows down river, picking up 100,000 kilos of trash per day.

Next Neighborhood Council of Westchester/Playa Monthly Board Meeting:

6:30 p.m., Tuesday, March 8, 2022 via Zoom

www.ncwpdr.org • 213.473.7023 Page 24 • March 2022

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

WISH continues to thrive due to the incredible support of the Westchester community, strong parent partnerships, and a commitment to high-quality meaningful and engaging public education for all students by our amazing team of educators! be valued and understood be held to high expectations experience exciting & engaging curriculum receive a chromebook have the opportunity to join a sports team participate in exceptional art, music, technology & PE instructional experiences have high quality SEL, STEM, & GATE instruction receive hands-on project based learning benefit from university & business partnerships take rigorous High School pathway courses in Engineering, BioMedical Science, Social Justice & Performing Arts

SERVICE IS OUR PASSION The Rotary Club of Westchester makes a difference in our community! We come together to support our students, clean our streets, makeover our community, promote literacy, support communities abroad and so much more. Join us!

WHAT WE DO: Emerson Avenue Community Garden We made the garden more easily accessible, more attractive, and more functional.

Westside Pacif ic Villages Delivering meals and reaching out to our homebound seniors.

Annual Book Sale We promote literacy and raise funds for community projects through our annual Book Sale.

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

March 2022 • Page 25

FEBRUARY26 26 CLEANUP UP WESTCHESTER WESTCHESTER FEBRUARY CLEAN

Page 26 • March 2022

Since forming in April of last year, the super volunteers behind Clean UP Westchester have picked up thousands of pieces of paper, filled hundreds of garbage bags and made dozens of trips to the dumpster.

Interested participants meet once a month at a busy local intersection, get handed gloves, a trash picker and a bag by organizer Grant Francis, and head off in all directions to get to work beautifying their community.

From elementary school students to seniors, volunteers donning neon yellow shirts are taking great pride in being part of the group and seeing how much debris they can collect from neighborhood streets.

Past cleanup locations have included the areas around IHOP Westchester, restaurants on Lincoln, the Ralphs Shopping Center and the Westchester Triangle.

During the February 26 cleanup, more than 30 community members met at Airport Marina Counseling Service and spent an hour-plus focusing on getting the intersection at La Tijera and Airport Blvd. trash-free. In the end, they were able to fill an entire truck bed with garbage bags, meet some new friends and enjoy donuts and coffee for a job well done.

The next Clean UP Westchester Day is scheduled for Saturday, March 26 at 9 a.m. at the corner of Manchester Blvd. and Emerson Ave. To volunteer or learn more, please email granttfrancis@gmail.com.

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News

March 2022 • Page 27

World-class health care, close to home California’s #1 cancer care available in Marina del Rey 13160 Mindanao Way | Suite 303 Marina del Rey, CA To learn more or to book an appointment, please visit uclahealth.org/marinadelrey or call 310-596-1249

Page 28 • March 2022

Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News