Issuu

5K/1K FUN RUN

MARCH 7

SATURDAY 7:30 -11 AM

MUSIC BY SOOPERAWESOME & FEATURING DJ BIG ROB CHECK-IN 7 - 7:45 AM LMU LAWTON PLAZA @ DROLLINGER STAGE

SPONSORS AND EXPO VENDORS WELCOME!

BRINGS YOU

Stephanie Davis, Publisher

Cory Birkett, Contributing Writer

Shanee Edwards, Contributing Writer

ABOUT THE HOMETOWN NEWS

A LOOK INSIDE THIS MONTH'S HTN HOMETOWN STAFF/CONTRIBUTORS

Sylvia Wilson, Contributing Writer

Jeff Blair, Contributing Writer Zsuzsi Steiner, Photos

ABOUT THE HOMETOWN NEWS

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, including The Book Jewel, Westchester Family YMCA, Playa Pharmacy, Loyola Village Library, Playa Vista Library, Truxton’s American Bistro and Cantalini’s Salerno Beach.

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

Story ideas & Advertising: westchesterhometown@yahoo.com

Front page: Husband and wife duo Jimin and Sandy Kim pose at their new eatery on Manchester Avenue, Shokudo Westchester. The restaurant opened in late December in the space previously occupied by Cafe Solar. Photo by Zsuzsi Steiner

The Westchester Town Center BID is home to great businesses, restaurants, retail and service providers! Check them out for all your shopping needs!

Please make “Shop Local” your mantra for 2026– it’s not just a slogan, it helps keep the businesses we love thriving!

Red Tail Crossing brings first one hundred percent affordable housing development to Westchester

By Shanee Edwards

On a busy stretch of Airport Boulevard, a once-vacant dirt lot has been transformed into something quietly historic: Red Tail Crossing, Westchester’s first-ever 100 percent affordable housing development, is now complete. For Playa del Rey resident Tara Barauskas, executive director of Community Corporation of Santa Monica, the project is both a professional milestone and a deeply personal achievement.

“It’s been a long journey, and now we’re getting ready to celebrate,” says Tara.

Built with Intention

Located at 8333 Airport Boulevard, Red Tail Crossing brings 102 affordable apartments to Westchester for households earning between 15 and 60 percent of the Area Median Income. The development includes a mix of 50 one-bedroom, 27 two-bedroom, and 25 three-bedroom units, with 40 of the one-bedroom apartments reserved for formerly unhoused individuals and people with disabilities.

Designed as a stepped-back, two to five-story building, the project balances density with neighborhood sensitivity. Residents will have access to a community center with classrooms and a kitchen, a playground, BBQ and picnic

areas, wellness and fitness spaces, onsite laundry, secure bicycle parking, and 78 parking spaces. The all-electric building features solar panels, Energy Star appliances, and EV charging stations, reflecting a commitment to environmental sustainability, as well as affordability.

But Tara is quick to point out that Red Tail Crossing is about more than modern design features.

“This is the first time in my 27year career that I’ve been able to build affordable housing in my own neighborhood,” she says. “That makes this project incredibly meaningful.”

Why Westchester and Why Now

Community Corporation of Santa Monica was founded in 1982 by community leaders concerned about gentrification displacing longtime residents. Today, the nonprofit owns and operates roughly 2,000 affordable apartments across Santa Monica and Los Angeles County.

When Tara joined the organization nine years ago, she challenged its geographic boundaries.

“The whole Westside is unaffordable,” she says. “Westchester is a highquality community with good schools, jobs nearby, and access to resources. Affordable housing should exist here, not just farther east or farther away.”

Her perspective was shaped by

personal observation. Teachers at her children’s schools routinely commuted from places like Santa Clarita just to work in Westchester classrooms.

“That kind of commute steals time from families and from communities,” Tara says. “People should be able to live near where they work.”

Housing That’s in Demand

The need for Red Tail Crossing became undeniable during the application process. For 102 apartments, more than 8,000 households applied through the City of Los Angeles lottery system.

“That number still breaks my heart,” Tara says. “It means thousands of families who need housing didn’t get it. But it also makes clear just how urgent this crisis is.”

Rents at Red Tail Crossing range roughly from $380 to $2,080 per month, depending on household size and income. It’s a dramatic contrast to market-rate rents in Westchester, where a one-bedroom apartment often exceeds $2,500.

“These are just low rents,” Tara says. “It’s not a housing project. It’s a regular apartment building built with public funding so people can actually afford to live here.”

Recognizing the Past, and Making Changes

The name Red Tail Crossing honors

the Tuskegee Airmen, the pioneering Black military pilots of World War II. The aviation theme reflects Westchester’s proximity to LAX, while also recognizing a legacy often overlooked.

Local artist David Russell created murals depicting the Tuskegee Airmen, integrated throughout the building and visible from the street.

(Continued on page 22)

by Zsuzsi

Photo

Tara Barauskas poses in front of Red Tail Crossing, Westchester’s first 100 percent affordable housing building, which is named in honor of the Tuskegee Airmen.

Business & Nonpro t News

Calling all volunteers! The Westchester Family YMCA continues to serve as a community hub with their food distribution events, which take place every Thursday from 10 a.m. to noon at their Annex (8020 Alverstone Ave. in Westchester). Anyone in need can stop by to receive fresh produce and non-perishables like beans, soup and oatmeal. Volunteers are also needed. This month, the Y is hosting Red Cross Blood Drives on February 5 and February 26 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., as well. Visit Facebook.com/westchesterfamilyymca for more info.

Goodbye, LAX pylons?

For the last 25 years, the 15 pylons around LAX have lit up the sky, and become an important fixture at the airport and for Angelenos.

In mid-January, crews began work to remove the ring of pylons as part of LAX’s Airfield and Terminal Modernization Program (ATMP) Roadway Improvements Project. The ATMP is meant to ease congestion and improve traffic in and around LAX.

The good news, however, is that LAWA is committed to preserving their legacy and is working with pylon light artist Paul Tzanetopoulos to develop a new design and configuration of the lights that doubled as art. New, reimagined pylons will be installed upon completion of the roadway improvements.

“Since their installation in 2000, the iconic LAX pylons have stood as a vibrant symbol of LAX and Los Angeles, welcoming more than 1.2 billion visitors from around the world,” said Michael Christensen, Chief Airport Development Officer at Los Angeles World Airports. “As part of the roadway modernization project, we have a unique opportunity

Registration now open for Rock Roll & Run! It’s time to raise money for local schools!

The LAX Coastal Education Foundation is planning its sixth annual Rock Roll & Run for Education in partnership with LMU. Participants can sign up for the 5K or Kids’ 1K Fun Run, and select one of 20+ local schools they’d like to support! At the Saturday, March 7th event, attendees can enjoy the run/walk, and stick around the campus for a Community Expo featuring a pancake breakfast, live music, giveaways and family-friendly activities. For more information and to register, visit bit.ly/RRR2026. Sponsor booths are also available.

to reimagine their design during this exciting new chapter in LAX’s transformation as our teams diligently prepare for the construction of elevated roadways that will ease

congestion, enhance safety, and deliver a world-class experience for travelers and our community.”

Learn more at lawa.org/ transforminglax.

Re-LAX Chiropractic reopens in Westchester.

After a fire impacted their space on January 14, Re-LAX Chiropractic is reopening in a temporary location starting February 2. The office, which offers chiropractic care for infants to adults, as well as neuropathy treatments, weight loss programs, massage therapy and more, is owned by Dr. Christina Yang.

The new space will be located at 8939 S. Sepulveda Blvd. Suite 120, next to the Courtyard Cafe, and will be open with limited services.

“Most importantly, everyone is safe. Fortunately, no one was hurt during the fire,” Christina shared via Instagram. “Thank you so much for your patience, understanding, and continued support during this time. It truly means so much to us.”

Visit them at re-laxchiropractic.com.

Parker H. Bainter Foundation raises money for families with children in PICU.

The Parker H. Bainter Foundation is hosting its inaugural gala on Saturday, February 28 at 4:30 p.m. in Santa Monica. The foundation was established by Westchester

Photo courtesy YMCA

LAX Pylons. After lighting up the entry to LAX for the last 25 years, the iconic pylons are being removed as part of the ATMP Roadway Project. The pylons are currently in the process of being reimagined by their original artist Paul Tzanetopoulos. (continued from previous page) residents Lindsey and Zachary Bainter, after the loss of their infant son Parker in 2022. The nonprofit supports families and children in the hospital and offsets expenses associated with receiving care, including transportation, dining in the cafeteria, and time off work. Learn more about the foundation, purchase a ticket or make a donation, at parkerhbainterfoundation.org.

WPV hosts ‘Planning for the Future’ seminar.

Are you prepared for the financial, legal and health situations that may lie ahead? Join Westside Pacific Villages and the Woman’s Club of Playa del Rey for an important educational program, “Beyond Today: Planning for the Future” on Saturday, February 28 from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The workshop will feature expert speakers on topics such as estate and retirement planning, life insurance, reverse mortgages, tips for aging in place, and more.

The event will be held at Covenant Presbyterian Church, located at 6323 W. 80th St. in Westchester.

Continental breakfast and lunch will be served. Seats are limited! Purchase tickets at thewpv.org/ events or contact rsvp@thewpv. org by February 27. Tickets are $40 in advance or $50 at the door. All proceeds go to nonprofit Westside Pacific Villages.

Meow Wolf heads to HHLA.

Meow Wolf, the immersive art and interactive entertainment experience, is coming to Westchester!

Once the exhibit opens at HHLA (6081 Center Drive) in late 2026, it will be the sixth Meow Wolf location. Each space has a unique theme and story created by local artists that blends sculpture, multimedia and a fantastical narrative to create a memorable experience. With the Westchester location taking over a now vacant movie theater, expect L.A.’s exhibit to “fully embrace the spot’s cinematic roots.”

Sign up for Meow Wolf’s newsletter at meowwolf.com/visit/los-angeles. Have info to share about your business or nonprofit? Email us at westchesterhometown@yahoo.com for a chance to be featured.

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By Cory Birkett

In Japan, a shokudo is the kind of neighborhood spot where people come for simple, nourishing meals at reasonable prices. Now, Westchester has its own Shokudo, the latest project from Jimin and Sandy Kim, a husbandand-wife team who have poured years of experience—and a lot of heart— into creating a place that is already generating a lot of buzz. This is their third restaurant together (and their second in Westchester, as they were the original owners of the nearby Ramen Joint) and that expertise comes through in the relaxed dining experience, mouth-watering dishes, and genuinely friendly service.

After sitting down with Sandy, it was clear that Shokudo is more than just another restaurant.

“We love Westchester for its closeknit feel,” she told me, explaining why the neighborhood felt like the right fit for their vision of “high-quality Japanese comfort food that’s affordable and approachable.”

Their hope is that it becomes a spot that appeals to everyone—whether you’re grabbing a quick weeknight dinner, meeting friends for a bowl of

perfectly cooked noodles, or sharing plates during date night. And they’re serious about doing it right, with quality ingredients, no shortcuts, food made with the kind of care you’d put into cooking for your own family.

That commitment carries straight into the kitchen. Sandy shared that her husband, chef Jimin, is there every day, hand-making fresh udon noodles from scratch. One bite in, and you understand why they’re a signature menu item—the texture is just right, with that perfect chew you want from great udon.

The Food

We started with edamame, potato salad and tempura to share. The tempura was outstanding—light and crisp, not greasy or heavy. Shrimp was paired with delicately fried vegetables like kabocha squash, lotus root, shiso, and purple Okinawan sweet potato. The potato salad has all the classic flavors you’d expect, with the twist of a softboiled egg and dollop of grainy mustard on top, making it not only delightfully creamy and tangy, but also Instagramworthy–but then again, almost every dish we’ve tried here is beautifully plated.

(Continued on next page)

Photo

At top: The Kims are excited to be back in Westchester with their newest restaurant. At left and opposite page: A collection of some of the restaurant’s most popular dishes, including Ikura Oroshi, Chicken Katsu and Beef Bulgogi.

(Continued from previous page)

I ordered the Chicken Katsu, which was everything I’d hoped it would be. They import their panko straight from Japan, and you can taste the difference. It’s perfectly crispy on the outside, tender and juicy inside, with a savory katsu sauce for dipping. It arrives with rice, miso soup, and a bright cabbage salad that provides a fresh balance.

Another popular choice is the Kurobuta pork loin katsu, made with premium heritage pork.

My vegetarian friend ordered the Classic Udon bowl with fresh ginger and vegan broth, and was genuinely impressed. The flavor was savory and complex, proving that plant-based doesn’t have to mean bland. You can customize your udon bowl with addins like seaweed and kelp, braised beef, crispy garlic, mala chili sauce, or shiso, depending on your mood.

I’m already planning a return visit for one of the Seoul Plates, which Sandy says are her personal favorites. The Beef Bulgogi, in particular, is a crowdpleaser—thin slices of ribeye sizzling in a house soy marinade.

Why Shokudo Stands Out

As Westchester continues to evolve, Shokudo stands out for something refreshingly simple: food made with passion and attention to every detail. This is comfort food in the truest sense—thoughtful ingredients, careful preparation, and a genuine desire to provide a memorable, craveable meal for everyone who walks through their door.

Check out our Q&A with owner Sandy Kim to learn more about the restaurant!

Q. Congratulations on the opening of Shokudo! This is the third restaurant you’ve opened as a husband-wife team, and the second in Westchester. Can you share a little bit about yourself and what brought you back to 90045 to open your latest eatery?

A. We share a passion for the restaurant industry and hospitality. Our goal has always been to create humble, everyday food made with thoughtful, quality ingredients—food that feels approachable and comforting, yet intentional. Returning to Westchester was an easy decision. We missed the sense of community, the regulars, and the lasting relationships we built through our first restaurant. Being back allows us to reconnect with the neighborhood and serve food we truly believe in, which is at the heart of why we opened Shokudo.

Q. Everyone we’ve talked to who has eaten at the restaurant has been raving about the food. How has the response been so far from the community?

A. The response has been incredibly encouraging. After about a month and a half of soft opening, we’re already seeing many repeat guests, which is the greatest compliment we could ask for. We’re grateful to the community for returning and supporting us—it reassures us that the food is connecting. For first-time visitors, we always

recommend our handmade udon or the Seoul Plates, if in the mood for rice dishes. The Seoul Plates are based on recipes from our moms (mains and banchans), so sharing them feels especially meaningful to us. It’s been a joy to pass those flavors on to the community and see them become part of people’s regular visits.

Q. What do you think sets Shokudo apart from other local eateries and makes it unique?

A. Our focus on simple, comfortdriven food made with care and quality ingredients. Our menu is rooted in family recipes and the everyday dishes we grew up with—food that feels familiar, honest, and approachable. We also place great importance on hospitality and community, creating a space where guests feel welcome and want to return often.

Q. When do you plan to open for breakfast/lunch and what do you look forward to serving?

A. We’re hoping to begin lunch service later this month. The menu will feature Japanese sandos, Korean kimbap, and a selection of grab-and-go items that are easy, satisfying, and thoughtfully made.

For breakfast, we’re keeping things simple—soft-scrambled organic eggs served on shokupan from our friends at Roji Bakery, along with Japanesestyle breakfast sets on the weekends. We’re also excited to introduce a coffee program with Asian-inspired drinks using matcha, hojicha, and black sesame. And we’re hoping to receive our beer and wine license soon to round out the experience.

Q. Anything else you’d like to share with Westchester/Playa?

A. We’re truly grateful for the warm welcome and support from the Westchester and Playa communities. Shokudo was created with the neighborhood in mind, and we’re excited to continue growing alongside it. We look forward to welcoming both familiar faces and new guests, and hope Shokudo becomes a place people feel comfortable returning to again and again.

Shokudo Westchester is located at 6224 Manchester Ave. and is currently open 5:30 to 9 p.m. every day. Follow them on Instagram @shokudo_ westchester or click the QR code.

I want to hear from you! What is your go-to local dish—the one you’d tell a new neighbor they have to try? Drop a comment, send me a message, or say “Hi” if you see me at the market. Let’s keep swapping favorites! Email me at birkettcory@gmail.com.

Cory Birkett is a foodie, and admin for the “Quarantine Cooking-Westchester & Silicon Beach” Facebook Group. When she’s not trying new recipes or checking out local restaurants, she spends her days as a real estate agent and long-time community volunteer, which includes serving on committees for the Westchester/Playa Neighborhood Council.

March 7 | 8 a.m. |

Campus

By Shanee Edwards

People who live in Westchester always say it feels like a small town tucked inside a big city. For Anthony and Hope Ulrich, Westchester is the kind of place where neighbors become friends, friendships turn into extended family, and big dreams don’t happen alone.

That sense of togetherness is at the heart of Wonderworld Playground, the Ulrichs’ newly opened indoor playground on Sepulveda Boulevard, right on the border of Westchester and Culver City. More than just a place for

kids to play and explore, Wonderworld was built as a gathering space–a living room for families–made possible by years of community roots, shared childcare, late-night help, and a village that showed up when it mattered most.

A Real-World Love Story

Anthony and Hope’s story begins not with dating apps or algorithms, but in what Hope laughingly calls, “The real world.” The two met while she was a bartender at Circle Bar in Santa Monica, where Hope was putting herself through school at West LA College, intent on earning an accounting degree.

Anthony remembers frequenting the

bar, usually with his cousin who worked across the street. He spent many late nights sipping beer while trying to get the attention of the pretty brunette bartender. But it was a futile endeavor.

“She wanted nothing to do with me!” Anthony says with a laugh, while Hope nods in agreement.

Romance would have to wait.

Through a twist of fate, Anthony joined the Circle Bar staff. He and Hope were friends first, then began sharing meals on breaks while slowly getting to know each other. Hope’s protective demeanor began to melt away.

“She was like, ‘Oh, this guy’s actually

kind of nice,’” says Anthony. Hope admits she eventually began flirting with Anthony, but he didn’t seem to notice. He insists he was simply being a gentleman and a professional co-worker. Either way, the friendship turned into something more, and the foundation they built during those early years would later shape how they built a family–and a business–together. Discovering Westchester

When the couple decided to move in together, they were searching for something rare in Los Angeles: a house they could afford. Hope discovered Westchester, a neighborhood Anthony,

How long has Westchester been your hometown?

What does the perfect day in Westchester look like to you?

Since you’ve made Westchester your home, what is the biggest change you have seen in the community?

There are so many great people and businesses in this community; is there anyone you would like to give a special shout-out to?

FROM THE SALISH SEA TO STUDIO LIGHTS

A life shaped by storytelling, summers, and the Seattle spirit has led Colleen Davis to a dream job in daytime TV.

By Sylvia Wilson

For Colleen Davis, the rhythm of life has always been set by the tides of the Pacific Northwest. Born and raised in Seattle, she still returns every year, especially in the summer, when the air is soft, the water glitters, and the long northern evenings stretch out like a promise.

“There is no better place to spend a summer than the great northwest,” she says, and she means it with the conviction of someone who has lived enough life to compare.

Colleen grew up as the third of four daughters in a bustling, allgirl household. Her father served as a firefighter with the Seattle Fire Department; her mother worked long days for the U.S. Postal Service. Their work was steady, honest, and demanding, qualities they quietly passed down to their daughters.

A Childhood in Motion

Her education began in a Montessori kindergarten, where two things became immediately clear to her teachers: she was a gifted storyteller, and she was bored. Academics came too easily. Stories came even easier. Her mother, upon hearing the teacher’s praise, asked the only question a mother of four imaginative girls might: “What kind of stories is she telling?”

To keep her challenged, Colleen was moved into Catholic school, skipping first grade and starting second grade at just six years old. Her parents also subscribed to a simple philosophy: keep her busy. Between second and eighth grade, she cycled through an enormous

Cascades in a wash of orange.

The Island That Built Her If rowing shaped her discipline, summers on Hood Canal shaped her soul as a kid.

Her family’s cabin sat on a small island accessible only by boat, with no electricity and no running water. It was modest, quiet, and to Colleen, perfect. Days were spent building driftwood forts, collecting sea glass, rowing at high tide, digging for clams, and listening to Seattle Mariners games on the radio. Nights were for board games, comic books, and the kind of laughter that only comes when no one is staring at a screen.

Even now, as an adult with a demanding career, the island remains her sanctuary.

“It gives me permission to turn off my phone, leave my computer at home, and enjoy the fresh air and beach,” she says of the place that taught her creativity, independence, and the joy of unplugging, long before that became a cultural aspiration.

A Grandmother’s Influence

Another defining force in her childhood was her grandmother, a woman who adored the arts and saw in Colleen a kindred spirit. Of her 11 grandchildren, Colleen was the only one old enough and close enough to accompany her to performances. Together, they attended musicals, plays, ballets, and operas, always with a lunch or dessert date attached.

“When people asked my parents which one of them I was more like, they’d say, ‘Neither. She’s just like her grandma.’”

“It was love at first sight,” she says. Once she moved to her freshman dorm, she lived on campus all four years. A medical condition forced her back to Seattle for a couple of years after graduation, but when she returned to Los Angeles, she knew exactly where she belonged.

“This community was home for four years, and I was ready to make it home for many more,” says Colleen.

She has now lived in Westchester for more than two decades.

Her coworkers often ask why she chooses to live so far from the entertainment industry’s hubs. Her answer is simple: “Are you kidding?

everything with their daughters, even the questionable stuff, using stories as a bridge to conversation. At dinner, instead of asking the dreaded “What did you learn at school today?” they asked about characters, plot twists, and themes. It worked. To this day, the family maintains a group chat dedicated entirely to TV and movie recommendations.

So when Colleen announced she wanted to study television, no one was surprised.

Before her senior year of high school, she attended Boston University’s Institute for Television, Film & Radio Production. The program confirmed what she already knew: she belonged in this world. But when the dean encouraged her to apply to BU, she explained that cross-country tuition and flights were out of reach. She asked for a West Coast recommendation. He suggested Loyola Marymount

With a scholarship, grants, and financial aid, she was officially an LMU Lion, majoring in TV Production. Her internships were a mix of timing and tenacity: first at KCBS, helping to launch their very first news website back in the dial-up era, and then at “General Hospital,” the soap opera she had adored for years. She stayed there for several years, eventually graduating (Continued on page 18)

Photo

Zsuzsi Steiner

Colleen poses near her alma mater, LMU.

From the Salish Sea to studio lights (c

(Continued from page 16)

on a Saturday, moving into her first apartment on Sunday, and starting full-time as the Executive Producer’s assistant on Monday. She has been in television production ever since.

Today, Colleen serves as the Rights & Clearances Supervisor for “The Jennifer Hudson Show,” part of the production legal team responsible for ensuring that every guest, song, logo, photo, and clip is legally cleared before airing. It’s meticulous work: high stakes, high pressure, and absolutely essential.

Life Outside the Studio

Colleen jokes that she has “no home life” meaning no spouse, no kids, no family nearby, unless you count Emily Ingistov, her best friend. Most of her waking hours are spent at work or in the car. When she finally gets home, she wants nothing more than sleep before the cycle begins again.

But she does carve out time for the things she loves. Sports, especially soccer, run deep in her family. She is a proud season ticket holder for Angel City FC, supporting professional women’s sports from the team’s inaugural year.

When she has time off, she travels. The Pacific Northwest is her most frequent destination, but her heart belongs to the South Pacific. She has visited Fiji, the Cook Islands, and French Polynesia three times, most recently spending time in Tahiti, Moorea, and Rangiroa.

And she’s not afraid of adventure. She has already crossed off the top two items on her bucket list: going to Australia and cage-diving with great white sharks. She did both at once, plunging into the waters off South Australia to meet the ocean’s most legendary predator.

“It was absolutely amazing,” she says with a grin.

Her Bold Move

Between work and home sits a third pillar of Colleen’s life: “Her Bold Move,” a political organization dedicated to helping women get elected across the country. She has served as the Endorsements Manager since 2020.

The group began during the pandemic, when women in the entertainment industry, suddenly out of work, decided to use their production skills to help female candidates who couldn’t afford professional media. Today, Her Bold Move is a nationally recognized PAC (Political Action Committee) offering training, networking, and support to women running for office.

Colleen’s favorite part is meeting the candidates themselves.

“They’re strong, confident, intelligent women from all over the country,” she says. “Getting the chance to talk to these inspiring women, then see them run and get elected to office is the best feeling in the world.”

Recently, she spoke with a candidate running for the Texas House of

Representatives and sent endorsement letters to women in Texas, Colorado, Tennessee, and California. She keeps close the words of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg: “Women belong in all places where decisions are being made.”

A Life Rooted in Place, Lifted by Imagination

From the quiet beaches of Hood Canal to the bright lights of daytime television, from the breezy streets of Westchester to the turquoise waters of the South Pacific, Colleen’s life has been shaped

by the places and people who nurtured her imagination.

She is still the girl who told stories in Montessori school, still the granddaughter who dressed up for the theater, still the rower who felt a boat rise beneath her as the sun broke over the Cascades.

And Colleen Davis is still, unmistakably, a Seattle kid at heart, one who carries the rhythm of the Northwest with her, no matter where her work takes her.

NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL OF WESTCHESTER / PLAYA

Working together to improve our communities!

NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL OF WESTCHESTER / PLAYA

“If you

Working together to improve our communities!

“If you do not take an

Working together to improve our communities!

NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL OF WESTCHESTER / PLAYA

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

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

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

NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL OF WESTCHESTER / PLAYA

fools.” ~ Plato

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.” ~ Plato

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

Working together to improve our communities!

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.”

~ Plato

~ Plato

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

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

Neighborhood Council is Proud to be A Sponsor

~ Plato

Neighborhood Council is Proud to be A Sponsor of This Year’s

The Neighborhood Council of Westchester/Playa is proud to, once again, be a sponsor of the LAX Coastal Education Foundation’s Rock Roll & Run for Education on the picturesque campus of Loyola Marymount University on Saturday, March 7, 2026!

Rock, Roll & Run at LMU

Neighborhood Council is Proud to

be A Sponsor of This Year’s Rock, Roll & Run at LMU

The event will feature a 5K and 1K, as well as an after-race expo featuring family-friendly activities, giveaways and a pancake breakfast. The festivities will also include live music and a DJ to kick-off the fun at 8 a.m.

The event will feature a 5K and 1K, as well as an after-race expo featuring family-friendly activities, giveaways and pancake breakfast. The festivities will also include live music and a DJ to kick-off the fun at 8 a.m.

Council is Proud to be A Sponsor of This Year’s Rock, Roll & Run at LMU

This event brings the entire community together to raise money for local schools, while promoting health and wellness.

The event will feature a 5K and 1K, as well as an after-race expo featuring family-friendly activities, giveaways and a pancake breakfast. The festivities

This event brings the entire community together to raise money for local schools, while promoting health and wellness.

Registration for the 2026 Rock Roll & Run is now open! When registering, runners have the opportunity to pick the participating school they’d like to support. The more runners each school signs up, the more funds they will raise to support their important programs! You can also have your registration fee go toward the LAX Coastal Education Foundation’s general fund for grants.

This event brings the entire community together to raise money for local schools, while promoting health and wellness.

This event brings the entire community together to raise money for local schools, while promoting

You can also have your registration fee go toward the LAX Coastal Education Foundation’s general fund for grants.

To register, please visit: bit.ly/RRR2026

You can also have your registration fee go toward the LAX Coastal Education Foundation’s general fund for grants.

To register, please visit: bit.ly/RRR2026

To register, please visit: bit.ly/RRR2026 NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL OF WESTCHESTER /

To register, please visit: bit.ly/RRR2026

Next Neighborhood Council of Westchester/Playa Board Meeting: 6:30 p.m., Tuesday,

February 12

March 24

May 5

Scan to Register for an Upcoming Tour

FORMING FAITHFUL HEARTS, MINDS & SPIRITS SINCE 1949

LEADERSHIP, SERVICE & COMMUNITY

MEDIA, MUSIC & PERFORMING ARTS

COMPETITIVE SPORTS PROGRAM

SMALL CLASS SIZES & DEDICATED SPECIALIST TEACHERS

Red Tail Crossing (cont’d)

(Continued from page 4)

The site itself carries a complicated history. During development, Tara discovered a restrictive covenant dating back to the 1940s that barred non-white residents from living on the property.

“I had to decide whether to walk away or fight,” she says.

Tara chose to fight, spending more than a year working with attorneys and state lawmakers to change the law and neutralize the discriminatory restrictions.

When the Issue Becomes Personal

Tara’s commitment to housing justice is rooted in lived experience. After her divorce, she attempted to rent a home in Westchester to keep her children in their schools.

“The landlord told me he wouldn’t rent to me because I was a single mom with two kids,” she says. “He said he didn’t think I could pay the rent.”

She eventually found housing through a friend in Playa del Rey, but the experience stayed with her.

“That was the first time I personally faced housing discrimination,” she says. “And I know others experience far worse.”

Working With the Neighborhood

Early reactions to Red Tail Crossing were mixed, with some nearby residents raising concerns about height and density. In response, Community Corporation undertook extensive outreach and made meaningful design

changes, says Tara.

“We wanted to show that affordable housing can enhance a neighborhood, not overwhelm it,” she says.

As the project neared completion, skepticism gave way to support, especially when one neighbor who was initially opposed to the project, donated items at a welcome basket event for incoming residents. Today, landscaped grounds, public art, and a new community room for gatherings signal a growing sense of connection even before all residents have moved in.

A Village Steps In

Local Girl Scouts, led by Westchester resident Becky Cunningham, played a key role in welcoming new residents by organizing a book drive. With support from The Book Jewel and other community members, more than 1,000 books were collected–enough to create two libraries.

“That kind of generosity shows what this community is capable of,” Tara says.

A New Chapter for Westchester

Residents are already moving in, and the official ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for February 27.

For Tara, Red Tail Crossing represents what’s possible when affordable housing is approached with care, accountability, and community partnership.

“This isn’t just about apartments,” she says. “It’s about building a place where people can belong.”

Family Night at El Rincon!

Our Family Night Special is a full dinner made for sharing, giving families a simple way to enjoy classic Cuban favorites together.

What’s Included:

• Your choice of two main dishes (Combinación de Pollo y Lechón, Ropa Vieja, or Camarones al Mojo de Ajo)

• Served with rice, beans, and plantains

• Dessert for the table.

Available Thursdays. Dine in only

El Rincon Criollo Call: (310) 391-4478 8501 Pershing Dr. #2 Playa del Rey, CA 90293

Happy February y’all - the month of love, friendship, and community! We are so honored to be part of your community every Sunday, and share in the abundance for farm fresh produce and artisanal goods!

WINTER CROPS

Robin Zacha Presents These Premier Listings

Stunning new construction in Westchester, where refined elegance meets everyday comfort. Located in the highly desirable North Kentwood enclave, this beautifully designed two-story residence offers a rare blend of luxury, functionality, and timeless appeal. Designed for today’s discerning buyer, the home features four spacious en suite bedrooms and five impeccably appointed bathrooms, providing comfort and privacy for family and guests alike. A welcoming foyer opens into formal living room which can be used as a fifth bedroom. An expansive dining space creates an ideal setting for refined entertaining. The open-concept floor plan is filled with natural light, enhancing the home’s bright and airy ambience. At the center of the home, a gourmet chef’s kitchen showcases top-of-the-line appliances, custom cabinetry, and a striking center island. Flowing seamlessly into the expansive great room, this space is perfect for everyday living and memorable gatherings.

Situated on a prime corner lot in the desirable Kentwood neighborhood, this beautifully updated home blends modern elegance with everyday comfort. Recently refurbished, the residence makes a striking first impression with enhanced curb appeal and fresh interior and exterior paint. A private entrance off Alverstone welcomes you into a thoughtfully designed kitchen featuring contemporary appliances and clean, modern finishes. The kitchen flows seamlessly into the dining area, creating an ideal space for hosting gatherings or enjoying casual family meals. Just beyond, the expansive living room offers a bright and inviting retreat, filled with natural light from newly installed windows and perfectly suited for both relaxation and entertaining. The home features a well-designed primary bedroom suite paired with a stylish, updated bathroom for everyday convenience.

In the heart of Westchester’s coveted North Kentwood, where $4, 5,and 6 million dollar homes sell, is a gem of a property that embodies both comfort and potential. This charming three-bedroom, three-bath home welcomes firsttime buyers with open arms, offering a primary suite complemented by two additional well-sized bedrooms and bathrooms. Upon entering, one is greeted by an open-concept design that seamlessly integrates indoor and outdoor living spaces, perfect for entertaining or enjoying quiet afternoons. As sunlight filters through the new vinyl windows, the hardwood floors reflect a warmth that invites relaxation. The original bathroom, characterized by its nostalgic pink and gray tiles, serves as a charming nod to the home’s history, while an additional en suite off one of the bedrooms enhances practicality for guests. This property not only caters to first-time homebuyers but also appeals to savvy investors seeking a foothold in a neighborhood known for high-value homes.

From Kentwood–the heart of Westchester–this exceptional new listing embodies charm and modern luxury. Situated in one of the area’s most coveted neighborhoods, the home is filled with natural light, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere throughout its thoughtfully designed interior. Upon entry, a spacious living room greets you with a classic wood-burning fireplace that adds timeless character and visual appeal. The adjacent dining room is ideal for entertaining or everyday meals, enhanced by sunlight streaming through large windows. At the center of the home is a beautifully remodeled kitchen featuring sleek stainless steel appliances and a generous workspace, offering the perfect balance of style and functionality for daily living and hosting alike. A conveniently located laundry area sits near the door, leading to an expansive outdoor deck, creating seamless indoor-outdoor flow.

Increase your weights over time to build strength

By Jeff Blair Opinion:

Have you ever picked up a light box and thought, “That was easy!” While you might be happy that it was a breeze, you probably realized you would not get any stronger if you only lifted that light box. To get stronger, you would need to lift a box that was somewhat challenging. Of course, you don’t want to immediately lift a “too heavy” box even when your goal is to get stronger. Something too heavy could potentially cause a strain or an injury. You want the “Goldilocks weight,” not too light or not too heavy, but just right! If this concept makes sense, you now understand an important strength-training idea. I will explore a few others in this month’s article.

1. Start with a weight that is right for you. People often ask me what amount of weight they should use on a given exercise, like a bicep curl or squat. I cannot tell them whether they should use 10, 20 or 30 pounds on an exercise without knowing their base strength level. When working with a new client, we will take some time to figure out what the best starting weight is on each exercise for them. Through trial and error, we can determine when a weight is appropriately challenging.

GET IN THE GAME!

and what might be too light for one person, can be too heavy for the next person. I always recommend erring a little on the light side when you are beginning. If you know you can lift 15 pounds but are not sure about 20 pounds, stick with 15 at the outset. Remember your tendons and ligaments do not increase in strength as quickly as your muscles. To avoid injury to those tissues, I recommend being a little conservative at the beginning with weights. Get the form down, and then consider increasing weight.

2. Start with the right weight, but progress. As mentioned with the box example, if you stick with a light weight indefinitely, you will not get stronger. You do not have to be superaggressive, but you definitely want to increase weights over time. You should feel confident when increasing the weight, and that makes it OK, and even recommended, to progress at a conservative pace. Challenging yourself in an appropriate manner is crucial to gain all the benefits strength training provides. I use the term “incremental increase” or “incremental improvement” to communicate the idea to continue to challenge yourself. You will know your weight is right when you find it challenging to finish the exercise on each set. If you get to the end of the exercise and you still

probably needs adjusting. Try a few pounds heavier, and you’ll find a better challenge.

3. Your increases will slow at some point. Weights often increase fairly quickly for a strength training beginner, but at some point, you will approach your genetic strength limits. While the amount of time needed to approach those limits varies by person, people often approach them within their first two years of strengthtraining. Remember, there are many factors other than weight that help you maintain or increase strength. You can move the weight a little slower or a little faster and maintain great form. You can even do something called isometric holds, where you stop the weight for a second or two to increase the resistance. You can add a few sets to your workout or add an extra day to get even greater benefit. Just do not get discouraged if the weights do not continue to increase as rapidly as they did when you started.

Full body strength-training as detailed in this article is the best way to retain muscle, maintain function and maximize quality of life. There is a direct correlation between strength and ability to perform daily tasks like carrying groceries, climbing stairs and moving independently. According to Harvard Medical School, maintaining

training can also be beneficial for heart health, managing blood sugar issues and helping you maintain a healthy weight. Every major medical organization in the world recommends it for optimizing health throughout a lifetime.

Jeff Blair (M.S.) is a certified personal trainer, fitness author and founded the SoCalSport Personal Training Studio in Westchester in 2011. Reach him at jeff@socalsport.com for questions or comments.

REGISTER TODAY FOR REGION 7’s SPRING SEASON! Join our community’s soccer league for ages 4 - 18. Limited spots available. Games begin in early March. Have fun! Make friends! Develop your soccer skills!

Therapy Corner with Ann O’Brien

By Ann O’Brien

Opinion:

Hello, my dear community! Over the past month, many of us have felt inundated by a relentless stream of national and international events— stories marked by conflict, uncertainty, and strong emotions. I often hear the same concern: “I want to stay informed, but the political climate and constant news cycle feel so overwhelming that I don’t know how to engage without it affecting my mood and mental health.”

For this month’s column, I want to address a growing mental-health challenge: how to stay engaged with the world without allowing politics and the news cycle to overtake our psyche or spirit.

I want to be clear—I am not here to argue for any political ideology. Rather, my intention is to be inclusive of diverse perspectives while focusing on something we all share: our emotional responses to the world around us.

Step One: Set an Aspiration

Mahatma Gandhi famously said, “I will not let anyone walk through my mind with their dirty feet.” He also reminded us, “You must not lose faith in humanity. Humanity is an ocean; if a few drops of the ocean are dirty, the ocean does not become dirty.”

These words invite us to define our own aspirations and values— perhaps integrity, open-mindedness, compassion, or a commitment to lifelong learning or civic engagement. Next, commit to doing what it takes to rise up to your aspirations and live in accordance with your values.

Step Two: Cultivate SelfAwareness

Notice your emotional and social reactions to the news. How do you feel after engaging with certain stories, and how do those feelings shape your interactions with others?

Recently, after dropping my child off at school, I had a 10-minute drive and a choice: listen to the news or continue listening to a song whose lyrics— “Blessed in this life, I’m gonna celebrate being alive”—felt unexpectedly uplifting. I chose the music and saved the news for later in the day (when I knew I would have a better mindset to tackle it). That small choice noticeably changed the energy I brought with me.

Step Three: Be Mindful of Your Impact on Others

How we talk about the news matters. While connection is important, unfiltered emotional unloading can be overwhelming. Sharing thoughtfully and listening generously helps preserve relationships and keeps conversations supportive rather than draining.

Step Four: Digest the News in Healthy Ways

Be intentional about when and how you consume the news. Some people find print less emotionally taxing than audio or video. Certain outlets are designed to provoke strong reactions; discernment matters. Consider limiting notifications or avoiding the news before bed if it disrupts your rest.

Also, notice whether you are learning. Curiosity and expanding perspective can counterbalance negative emotional states.

Step Five: Choose Your Approach in Each Moment

Clarity of intention can transform conversations. Saying, “I want to process how I feel about this,” or “I’d like to better understand what’s happening here,” helps keep discussions thoughtful and human.

Finally, continue prioritizing relationships and activities that keep your mind discerning and your heart hopeful—time with friends and family, the strength of our local community, or meaningful civic engagement.

Anne Lamott reminds us, “Hope begins in the dark, the stubborn hope that if you just show up and try to do the right thing, the dawn will come.” Showing up may look different for each of us, but small, intentional choices matter.

My hope is that we meet this moment, not with calloused or downtrodden hearts, but with steady minds, compassion and a shared belief that it matters to be thoughtful, caring people. With that, I wish you all a nourishing February. As always, I welcome your thoughts, questions, and reflections— please feel free to write in and continue the conversation.

Ann O’Brien, LCSW, MSc, is a Playa del Rey resident and therapist, specializing in relationships. Contact her with questions or comments at ann@annobrientherapy.com or visit annobrientherapy.com. You can also visit her Substack, Relational Insights: at annobrientherapy.substack.com.

COAST ACADEMY

Check out these things

Musical offerings in our back yard

Westchester/Playa might not be the first place you think of when live music comes to mind, but we’ve got some surprisingly solid offerings.

On February 9-14 some of the world’s best young pianists will be performing at the Fourth American International Paderewski Piano Competition, held at Loyola Marymount University. Twenty-five performers from as far away as Armenia, Poland, and Thailand will be ready to wow the audience with their musical stylings with tickets starting at just $15. Learn more at paderewskimusicsociety.org/support-attend.

Westchester also has its very own unique and cozy jazz bar, Sam First, on Century Blvd. Check out samfirstbar.com to find out about upcoming shows and support their mission to foster the jazz community in L.A.

If rock is more your jam, make sure to stop by the Rock Roll & Run at LMU on March 7th to enjoy Top 40 covers by Sooper Awesome!

Supporting Airport Marina Counseling

Prioritizing mental health is important as ever, and having an organization like Airport Marina Counseling Service (AMCS) in Westchester ensures that people can get help and support when they need it the most.

Based on a sliding scale, the clinic offers services for adolescents, families, adults, and couples, as well as group therapy and psychiatric care, in person or via telehealth.

Right now, the clinic has no waiting list! Learn more about their services or supporting their upcoming Spring Gala Celebration on May 14 at amcshelps.com.

Visiting small businesses and shopping local

At The Book Jewel, we purchased a tote bag that reads, “Community over Convenience,” and we appreciate that sentiment. Sure, a lot of times it’s easier to order stuff online and have it delivered, and you may even save a dollar, but we’re shopping local whenever we can.

Small businesses are the backbone of our community, and the places that support local organizations. When it comes time for the spring Little League season, donating to school fundraisers or sponsoring events like WAM that unite the community, these businesses continue to step up. Whether you’re looking for a new place to try lunch, in the market for a bike, need a gift for a friend, or want something made by a local artisan, join us in shopping small this month, and always! The pages of the HTN are a great place to start when it comes to checking out neighborhood businesses with a pulse on the community!

Photo by Zsuzsi Steiner

Photo by Venice Paparazzi