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THIS MONTH BRINGS YOU

MONTH BRINGS

Stephanie Davis, Publisher

Shanee Edwards, Contributing Writer

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

Jeff Blair, Contributing Writer

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

Sylvia Wilson, Contributing Writer

Zsuzsi Steiner, Photos Robert Higgins, 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.

ABOUT THE HOMETOWN NEWS

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

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Story ideas & Advertising: westchesterhometown@yahoo.com

Front page: A collage of some of our favorite parade photographs from the last decade. This year’s event will be held on Friday, July 4 at 11 a.m.

Photos by Zsuzsi Steiner | zsuzsiphotography.com

Happy Fourth of July!

From the Westchester Town Center Business Improvement District and all of our members, we wish you and yours a happy and safe Fourth of July!

We hope you enjoy the annual Westchester Fourth of July Parade – one of the greatest hometown events in Los Angeles because it brings our entire community together to celebrate.

Parade celebrates its 25th anniversary with

“We Love L.A.” theme and tribute to firefighters

By Courtenay Edelhart

Firefighters will be front and center when the LAX Coastal Chamber of Commerce hosts its 25th annual Fourth of July Parade at 11 a.m. on Friday, July 4 on Loyola Boulevard in Westchester.

Presented by Decron Properties— the event’s title sponsor—the parade’s theme this milestone year is, “We Love L.A.!” The theme celebrates all that makes the city shine, from worldclass music and iconic landmarks to sun-soaked beaches, thrilling sports, and vibrant neighborhoods.

Members of the Los Angeles City and County Fire Departments are the parade’s Grand Marshals, with firefighters and their families from local stations invited to participate in the parade.

They will be accompanied by a float featuring an 18-foot-tall firefighter made of wood, chicken wire, foam and paint constructed by the Westchester Family YMCA staff and a group of dedicated volunteers that include the Y’s board members, teen group and community members.

The float is the brainchild of renowned special effects artist Dan Garr, who wanted to honor the brave men and women who battled the devastating Palisades and Eaton fires in January.

“When the chamber approached me about an entry in this year’s parade, it took me about a minute to come up with the idea,” he said.

Dan wanted a towering figure to match the heroism of the firefighters who risked their safety to protect lives and property earlier this year, but that presented some logistical challenges. His team had to measure the height of traffic signals, electrical wires and other overhangs along the parade route to make sure the float could pass unobstructed.

The YMCA has participated in the parade for years with decorated cars and walking groups, but this is its first ever float.

“I have to tell you, I got really paranoid about taking on this obligation,” said YMCA board chair and parade committee member John Sharpe. “We are thinly staffed. Everybody wears three hats. I

basically, before we started, tried to bail, but I’m so glad we didn’t. It’s been so much fun watching this take shape, and really exciting and rewarding.”

I love this neighborhood. It’s the best place to raise kids. I’m so happy the parade is still going. Keep coming! “

This is a perfect year for the YMCA’s float debut, John added, because it is the parade’s 25th anniversary, and the theme really resonates. The courage of the city’s firefighters is one of many things to love about Los Angeles, John said, so “it certainly is appropriate to recognize them.”

It is noteworthy that a parade

with humble beginnings has lasted a quarter of a century, said Chad Maender, the chamber’s President/ CEO.

“Celebrating 25 years of any event is significant, and I think this one is extra special because this parade is probably the largest single community event in the area,” he said. “We have 8,000 to 10,000 people coming out every year, both local and from across the city. The event has a very hometown feel, similar to what you might find in any small town in America. We are fortunate to have that same sense of community here.”

Chad said he is pleased with the 25th anniversary theme because “L.A. is a city of resilience, and this parade is another example of how Angelenos are some of the most optimistic and hopeful people in America.”

Float designer Dan said his favorite float of the more than a dozen he and his helpers have created over the years for the Fourth of July Parade, was a perfect example of that resilience, even though few people saw it.

(continued on next page)

Left: Dan Garr and a dedicated volunteer crew from the YMCA work on the 18-foot Grand Marshal float. At right: A look at two parade entries from the early days of the parade.

Photos by Zsuzsi Steiner & courtesy the Historical Society

(cont’d)

(continued from previous page)

It was 2020, the year of the COVID-19 pandemic. The parade was canceled, and Dan said he told himself, “Screw that. I’m going to build a float, anyway.” It was a 15-foot graduation cap with a bunch of kids standing underneath. They drove it around the neighborhood ahead of a line of 50 cars to honor local high school seniors who were denied a traditional prom or commencement or any of the other rites of graduation.

“Nobody got out of their cars. We kept it safe,” he said. “People came out of their houses wearing the pajamas they had on, and they had tears in their eyes. It was amazing.”

Ironically, the long-lived parade originally was supposed to be a onetime event, said Gwen Vuchsas, who was the chair of the chamber in the parade’s first year and served as the parade committee’s chair for 20 years.

It was meant to be the culmination of a series of events held by the Westchester/Playa del Rey Historical Society to help celebrate the millennium. The president of the historical society and local real estate agent, Mary Lou Crockett spearheaded the idea for the Fourth of July Parade, and knew that in order for it to be feasible, the nonprofit would need to form a partnership with another community group. With its strong community ties, and an eager chamber president, it appeared the two organizations would create an ideal pairing.

“The board approved it, but we didn’t realize we weren’t just sponsoring. We were being asked to organize and put on the whole thing,” Gwen said.

She didn’t know the first thing about permits, road closures or any of the other logistics involved in staging a parade, but with a committee made up of chamber representatives, historical society board members and friends, they learned as they went.

“We spent the first four months just figuring out how to get entries,” Gwen said, who also enlisted the help of her husband, son and daughter.

The rag tag crew printed 1,500 parade programs to hand out that first year, listing all of the participants, and at the last minute, Gwen started to have doubts about the success of the event.

“We were sitting in a friend’s living room, and I said, ‘Do you think 1,500 people are going to show up?’ But Loyola Boulevard was like that movie ‘Field of Dreams’—if you build it, they will come,” says Gwen.

At first, the crowd was pretty thin, but then about 10 minutes before the parade was to start, people along the route came out of their homes and flooded the street. Soon, the whole route was flanked with spectators.

“We ran out of programs,” Gwen said. “People were waving flags and smiling, and the kids were decorating their bikes in red, white and blue.”

Everyone was so thrilled with the turnout and the community pride they had seen that she later pushed for making the parade an annual event.

“I said to myself, ‘This can’t be a one-time thing. We have to continue,’” shared Gwen.

Not much has changed over the years other than the parade’s size and the omission of an elephant. For a few years, winners of a contest could ride one among the marchers, but People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, or PETA, objected, so organizers got rid of the pachyderm ride.

“It was too political and not worth it,” Gwen said.

“

Every year, we’re honored that people choose to spend the Fourth with us.

Every now and then elected officials will ride in cars in the parade, but the chamber does not seek them out and prohibits participants from endorsing candidates. Controversy goes against the spirit of the event, which is intended to unite the community and celebrate what brings us all together.

“Every year, we’re honored that people choose to spend the Fourth with us,” said Chad. “This is truly a special event that brings so many to Loyola Boulevard. Spend five minutes on the parade route and you’ll see people of all ages and all walks of life, from all over, cheering on the entries and enjoying the entertainment with their friends and family. We know all the work to put on an event this size is worth it when you see everyone smiling. I’m grateful for all the support our members give this event, from sponsoring, volunteering and signing up as entries. We couldn’t put on this event without the support of our 750-plus members and our community!”

The deep community buy-in is what makes this such a special neighborhood tradition.

“Even the neighbors have embraced it,” Gwen said. “Homeowners love it. They invite people over and set chairs outside. It’s like having a parade route on your front lawn.”

Echoes Dan, “I love this neighborhood. It’s the best place to raise kids. I’m so happy the parade is still going. Keep coming!”

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LOCAL MOM FINDS HER STRIDE BY STARTING A WALKING COMMUNITY IN PLAYA VISTA

By Shanee Edwards

When Westchester resident Alicia Arleo became a mother, she found herself navigating more than just sleepless nights and diaper changes–she was also facing an unexpected wave of loneliness. As the first person in her friend group to have a baby, Alicia craved connection with other women who understood exactly what she was going through. That desire for support became the spark for something much bigger: a thriving community of moms walking, talking, and bonding through The Mom Walk Collective.

As a professional in the fashion industry, Alicia has spent the last 15 years in Los Angeles and the last eight living on the Westside. After welcoming her son Aaron, now almost 11 months old, she began searching for a way to meet other moms.

“When he was about four months old, I just really needed someone to say, ‘Yes, my baby is waking up at 2 a.m., too!’ I needed that kind of friendship,” says Alicia.

Her search led her to The Mom Walk Collective, a group that started in Newport Beach in 2022 and quickly expanded nationwide. While the closest group at the time was in

Redondo Beach, her husband gave her the push she needed to start a momwalk closer to home.

“He said, ‘Why don’t you host something up here? There have to be moms in Playa Vista who feel the same way.’ And he was right,” Alicia says.

In April, Alicia became a Mom Walk Collective Ambassador and officially launched the Playa Vista chapter.

“I host primarily in Playa Vista because of the beautiful parks there. Everybody seems to like walking to the Whole Foods area, or to get coffee, and there are dog parks. It’s just so walkable,” she adds.

Since then, she’s hosted six walks, and each one brings more moms out of isolation and into a mommy zone where the focus is connection.

“Every walk, I hear the same thing: ‘How has this not been here before?’” she says, “It’s been incredibly rewarding.”

A Walk in the Park–with Snacks!

Held twice a month, once on a weekday and once on a weekend, so working moms can attend, the walks are open to all mommas, from those with infants and toddlers, to moms-tobe.

“I especially love having pregnant (continued on page 42)

Top: A group of moms meet up at Playa Vista’s Fountain Park during a June 26 walk. Below: Mom Walk Collective Playa Vista founder, Alicia Arleo gets ready to lead a walk with her son Aaron in tow.

Photos by Zsuzsi

Business spotlight: Design Street Studio Balloons helps make every celebration festive and fun

With a creative imagination and can-do attitude, Linda Soto has found her calling as a balloon artist, and she loves making people smile with her dazzling, colorful and playful displays.

For more than 28 years, Linda, a pioneer in the field, has created every type of balloon display, arch, column, centerpiece and garland you could think of. She’s always pushing herself when it comes to design and creating a “wow factor” for corporate clients, schools, small businesses, parties and everything in between!

While she’s been featured on TV, won numerous industry accolades, including a coveted “Designer of the Year Award,” these days Linda is happiest using her creativity, expertise and talent throughout the Westside to bring the fun to every event and function she’s part of. When she’s not working, Linda loves to hit the road to places like Vegas, as well as helping local organizations like the LAX Coastal Chamber, where she was recently awarded “Volunteer of the Year!”

Read this month’s business spotlight to learn more about Design Street Studios Balloons and make sure to check out Linda’s balloon design on the trucks driving the Taiko drummers and the Mahana Dance Group at the Fourth of July Parade!

Q. Please tell us a little bit about yourself.

A. I’ve lived on the Westside for most of my adult life with a few scattered years in Las Vegas, Palm Springs and Germany. I was in the restaurant industry for many years, and I loved the hustle of a busy and crazy dining room and meeting the most interesting people. After taking a year off due to illness, I knew I’d industry conventions, taking top awards in various design competitions, which culminated in being honored with West Coast Designer of the Year 2009.

I have the sweetest shadow that follows me everywhere and has brought me so much joy. Molly is a 3-year-old Maltipoo that was on her way to be surrendered at a

realized they were another income stream while also engaging my need for designing and creating visual displays. Balloons took over quickly and became my sole focus!

Q. If someone is planning an event, party or celebration, why should their decor include balloons?

A. There is a psychology to balloons that evokes feelings of excitement, anticipation and happiness by bringing color and style into an event. They highlight focal points and create points of interest that invite people to really enjoy what’s going on around them. It’s just a meeting until the balloons arrive!

Q. What are some of your favorite aspects of being an entrepreneur?

A. As an entrepreneur you get to unleash your creativity, set your schedules, growth, style and freedom. The downside is also lack of freedom and economic concerns in unstable markets. This is a very laborintensive profession and it does take a toll on the body.

Q. What is your favorite or most memorable balloon design?

A. After 28 years in the balloon industry, I can’t pick just one! Maybe one of my competition sculptures or a technique I developed and was able to implement into a design. But overall, my favorite design is the one that brings the client’s vision to life and gives them the most joy. This brings me happiness and satisfaction in my work.

Q. What are some of your favorite local small businesses that you like to support?

A. Some of my favorites are Paco’s Tacos, Flowers by Felicia, Robert Higgins Photography, Tower Pizza, Tony P’s, The Book Jewel and the Westchester Farmers’ Market in the Triangle. As a member of the LAX Coastal Chamber of Commerce, I like to reach out to other businesses in

Want to add fun to your next designstreetstudiosballoons. com or scan the QR code to check out their website and view their look

Linda shows off a fun fall-themed design at last year’s Westchester Arts & Music Block Party. View her work this month at the parade!

to check out this

SUM MER 1 funevents

Beach Movie Nights in Playa del Rey

Shakespeare On the Bluff at LMU

July 10-12 | 8 pm

Head to LMU for fun, free community events that are sure to brighten your summer!

Now in its ninth year, Shakespeare on the Bluff returns with “Measure for Measure” on July 10, 11, and 12. The plays run 90 minutes and are held at the Drollinger Family Stage. Doors open at 6 p.m. for guests to select their location on the lawn and have time for picnics! Performances start at 8 p.m.

For movie lovers, the university will screen “The Avengers” on July 11 on O’Malley Lawn. RSVPs are needed to guarantee seating and to receive free swag! RSVP for both events and learn more at lmu.edu/summer.

Various Friday dates | 8 p.m.

Enjoy movies under the stars–and right on the sand–at this year’s Beach Movie Nights! Hosted by the Department of Beaches and Harbors, attendees are invited to bring low-back lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy the shows, which start at 8 p.m.!

This year’s schedule of family favorites include: July 11: “Encanto;” July 18: “Dog Man;”July 25: “Inside Out 2;”August 1: “Lilo & Stitch;” and August 8: “The Garfield Movie.”

Movies are played at the Dockweiler Youth Center, located at 12505 Vista Del Mar in Playa del Rey. Visit beaches. lacounty.gov for more info and to see the full lineup.

Summerfest at Holy Nativity

July 27 | 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Join Holy Nativity for its third annual SummerFest! Guests can enjoy a free mid-summer celebration featuring yoga, complimentary tacos, live music with the Praties and tours of the church’s artwork and garden.

The event also features activities for kids and a doggie station, complete with water and treats.

Holy Nativity is located at 6700 W. 83rd St. in Westchester.

YMCA Community Wellness Celebration

August 16 | 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Westchester Family YMCA will transform into a vibrant hub of health and connection at the inaugural YFest!

Taking place in the Westchester YMCA Annex parking lot, this one-day wellness experience seamlessly blends movement, mindfulness and community engagement. The event promises to be a mind-body connection playground, featuring interactive booths, hands-on demonstrations, and brain-boosting activities that go well beyond your typical health fair.

Designed with every age group in mind, the celebration will offer engaging games for children, practical wellness strategies for teens and adults, and specialized exercise demonstrations tailored for aging seniors. This comprehensive approach ensures that every community member can discover something meaningful, reinforcing the YMCA’s mission to strengthen the well-being of all.

The Annex is located at 8020 Alverstone Ave. in Westchester.

TITLE SPONSOR

Loyola

The LAX Coastal Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to host the 25th Annual Fourth of July Parade! This year’s parade theme is “We Love LA!” and is presented by Decron Properties. The 25th Annual Parade focuses on L.A.’s positive aspects and what makes it special. It will celebrate our city’s unity and resilience. The Chamber is extremely grateful for this year’s Title Sponsor–Decron Properties. Decron has been a leader in our business community as a true champion for diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. Their Title Sponsorship is celebrated by the diverse cultural entries in this year’s 25th edition of the parade. We are always so appreciative of all of our parade sponsors, both recurring and brand new! Thank you for continuously showing up to support our beautiful community. We acknowledge and thank the many volunteers who have donated countless hours to ensure the parade is a success.

This year’s Grand Marshal will be a group of Los Angeles City and Los Angeles County Firefighters, joined by leaders and families from the Westchester Family YMCA. Together with local Westchester resident and toymaker, Dan Garr, the YMCA has constructed an 18-foot firefighter to pay tribute and honor the courageous men and women who battled the devastating Palisades and Eaton fires that swept through Los Angeles this past January.

For 72 years, the LAX Coastal Chamber has been the leading voice of promoting business. The Chamber now represents more than 750 businesses across the region, from local, small, and diverse businesses to Fortune 500 companies. Under the leadership of outgoing Board Chair Maria Canchola of Hollywood Park Casino, the Chamber made important strides in connecting with the sports & entertainment industry, which included building critical relationships with LA28, the Los Angeles Sports & Entertainment Commission, L.A. Tourism and more. The baton will now be passed to Incoming Board Chair Stephanie Sampson at Parsons–a global infrastructure firm. Under Stephanie’s leadership, the Chamber will continue its important work as we gear up the business community for the FIFA World Cup in June 2026. Reinvigorating volunteerism and expanding our impact across the community will be key drivers for the next Chamber year. Stephanie’s involvement in the Chamber and in the local business community started during her time as the Director of Communications for LAX Development Projects at Los Angeles World Airports where she interfaced with community partners and key strategic stakeholders on major construction initiatives at LAX. Stephanie looks forward to her time as Board Chair: “I am incredibly excited to step into the role as Board Chair for the LAX Coastal Chamber because we have an incredible group of leaders who are committed to supporting and advocating for the businesses and communities in and around LAX. As Board Chair, I look forward to continuing the work of my predecessors that have helped make LAX Coastal the most impactful Chamber around!”

The Chamber thanks outgoing Honorary Mayor, Luanne Casillas from Blend2DayFCA Financial for her incredible service as she welcomed and celebrated a plethora of new businesses in our region. Starting this July, 28-year hospitality & tourism leader Kristin Hynes of the LAX Marriott and Renaissance LAX will start her year as Honorary Mayor. Kristin is no stranger to the local LAX business community as she has seen the development and growth of the LAX corridor during her almost thirty year career.

“Thank you to the businesses and residents of our region that make the LAX Coastal region what it is today. As always, know that we are here to support and promote business and enhance the vitality of our special community!”

-Chad Maender,

LAX Coastal Chamber President/CEO

STEPHANIE SAMPSON

KRISTIN HYNES

DEAR COMMUNITY

WE ARE EXCITED TO CELEBRATE WITH YOU TODAY!

Happy Fourth of July! The LAX Coastal Chamber of Commerce and its many community partners work hard every year to put on the Fourth of July Parade. The chamber is honored to present the 25th annual event on Friday, July 4 with the theme, “We Love L.A.!” We invited our participants to create floats and entries that celebrate all the wonderful things that make our vibrant and diverse city shine–from unique neighborhoods and world class music to iconic landmarks and people working to better their communities!

When it came time to select a Grand Marshal for our milestone anniversary, the parade committee could think of no one more deserving than our firefighters! While these brave men and women always keep our city safe, we wanted to give them special recognition this year for their work in battling the unprecedented Palisades and Eaton Fires in January. Their bravery, dedication and

courageous actions to protect homes, property, and the lives of Angelenos will not be forgotten!

We look forward to seeing you all along Loyola Blvd., hearing your collective cheers and feeling the energy you all bring on parade day.

-The Fourth of July Parade Committee

Never been to the parade? Here is the scoop on this year’s event:

• The parade runs from 11 a.m. to approximately 12:30 p.m. and takes place along Loyola Blvd. in Westchester from Westchester Park to LMU.

• Seating is available along the parade route on a first-come, first-served basis. Bring your blankets and chairs, and plan to get there early if you have a particular area where you’d like to sit. The route is especially crowded near the announcers’ booths at Loyola at Manchester Ave.; Loyola at 83rd St. and Loyola at 80th St.

• Limited bleacher seating is available at center

stage (Loyola at 83rd St.)

• Parking for spectators is available at Loyola Marymount University, but cars must enter the university via Lincoln Blvd.

• An EMT will be stationed on Loyola at 83rd Street for any emergencies.

• For our parade pups, water bowls are available at announcers’ booths.

Visit our parade sponsor’s booths:

Our sponsors are excited to celebrate with attendees and will have booths set up along the parade route with giveaways (while supplies last). At Westchester Park, Title Sponsor Decron Properties will be passing out beverages and snacks. The Stephanie Younger Group, Jane St. John, Estate Properties, Hertz and LAWA will also be passing out goodies.

Thank you to all our sponsors for supporting the LAX Coastal Fourth of July Parade!

Questions along the parade route? Ask a volunteer in an official turquoise parade shirt!

line of march

29. Emerson Avenue Community Garden

30. BLOW Brass Band

31. Westchester Park and Recreation

32. Trash Can Band

33. Westchester Lariats

34. Kentwood Elementary School

6. Friends of the Great Pyrenees

7. Salute to Classic Cars

8. 501st Legion, Rebel Legion and Mandalorian Mercs with Road Squadron

Trucks

Chamber Chair Stephanie Sampson and Honorary Mayor Kristin Hynes

20. Grand Marshal Float honoring L.A. Firefighters with the Westchester Family YMCA

21. Saint Monica Preparatory

22. Loyola Marymount University

23. NCWP Star of the Neighborhood

24. Westchester Farmers’ Market

25. Los Angeles World Airports

26. Ladies of the Westchester Elks

27. WISH Community & Academy High School

28. Scouting America

35. Los Angeles Ghostbusters

36. Westchester/Playa Historical Society

37. National Charity League Beachside Chapter

38. Del Rey American Little League (DRALL)

39. Uncle Sam in Classic Car

40. Kentwood Players

41. Koshin Taiko Drummers

42. Visitation Catholic School

43. Charro Horses

44. Chamber Staff & Parade Committee

*Final line of march as of press time. Changes may occur.

1. LAPD Pacific Area Junior Cadets

Immortal Lion Dancers

this year’s parade participants

LAPD Pacific Area Cadets

Continuing our annual tradition, the LAPD Pacific Area Cadets lead off our parade and proudly carry the American flag. The LAPD Cadet Youth Program is designed to help instill discipline, leadership, academic excellence and life skills in all youth participants. It also seeks to empower students to maximize their personal, scholastic and life potential. They will be marching all the way to 80th Street to give everyone in attendance the chance to salute our nation’s flag.

The program is supported by the LAPD Pacific Area Boosters Association, an organization of business professionals and community members who support the LAPD Pacific Area. Incorporated in 1973 as a nonprofit organization, the Boosters raise funds to support the LAPD Pacific Area Cadet Youth Programs, police officers and the police station.

“We Love L.A.” Salute to our Sponsors

This parade would not be possible without the generosity of our sponsors. Carrying our great flag are representatives of the organizations that have stepped up to the plate to ensure the success of this event. Let’s make sure to give them a big round of applause!

Title Sponsor: Decron Properties

Admiral Sponsors:

Thank you to our sponsors and friends for carrying the flag down the parade route!

Angeles Airport Marriott, Hertz, Fryman, Westchester Rotary Club, Councilwoman

Venice High School Mighty Gondolier Marching

Band

Please welcome the Venice High School Mighty Gondolier Marching Band! With students hailing from all areas across Los Angeles, the Venice High School Mighty Gondolier Marching Band represents Venice High School with pride, passion and powerful sound. Known for their spirited performances, dynamic formations, and rich tradition, this talented group of student musicians brings the rhythm of Venice to every parade and competition.

Let’s give it up for the Mighty Gondoliers— making waves and music wherever they go! For contact information and ways to support the band, please follow them on Instagram at @venicehsband.

Stephanie Younger Group, LAWA, Hometown News and Brand Enhance Hospitality

Celebration Sponsors:

Cedars-Sinai, Drollinger Family Charitable Foundation and URW Airports

Star Sponsors: Jane St. John/Estate Properties, Loyola Marymount University, Neighborhood Council of Westchester/Playa, Los

Traci Park, Team Tami, Playa Venice

Sunrise Rotary Club and Ladies of the Elks/Westchester Elks

Patriot Sponsors:

Make Good Company, Jen Law and Payroll Centric

Friends of the Parade: LAX Kiwanis Club, Cantalini’s Salerno Beach, Dave & Busters, Moose Toys, Westchester Woman’s Club, Tatiana Ruiz More | State Farm Covered with More, Westside Neighborhood School, Cityview, SoCalGas, Westside Production Rentals and Rob Bird & Gail Goldstein

Today, our sponsors, community representatives, chamber members and friends, are marching the flag down the parade! While it may look easy, the flag is actually quite heavy, and requires dedication and teamwork to make it to center stage!

L.A. #1 HOG Chapter

Participating from the very first year of this event, LA#1HOG, the Los Angeles chapter of the international Harley Owners Group, is proud to once again help lead the Westchester community’s 2025 Fourth of July Parade hosted by the LAX Coastal Chamber! LA#1HOG, whose members are mostly from our local communities, is grateful to be sponsored by Bartels’ Harley-Davidson of Marina del Rey. Visit their website la1hog.com to learn more about this chapter and its members and their magnificent machines!

this year’s parade participants

Westchester Del Rey Little League

Dating back to 1974, Westchester Del Rey Little League (WDRLL) is proudly celebrating its 51st anniversary of Little League softball and the 22nd anniversary of coed tee-ball.

Today’s Fourth of July Parade features players and families from all five divisions—including Juniors (14U), Majors (12U), and Minors (10U) All-Star teams. They’re proud to represent a vibrant, family-centered league with deep roots and a bright future. From everyone at WDRLL, thank you for your continued support!

Rooted in a tradition of putting kids first, WDRLL has spent five decades building community, developing young athletes, and creating joyful memories for families throughout Westchester, Playa del Rey, and surrounding neighborhoods. Founded by Mary Ann and Kent Mace with just 50 girls at Westchester Park, the league has grown to more than 300 players across 30-plus teams, ranging in age from 4 to 14.

Today, WDRLL proudly serves as a feeder program for several high school and collegiate teams, and continues to thrive thanks, to the dedication of its volunteers, coaches, and supporters. This year’s softball and tee-ball seasons brought its core values to life, including: hosting weekly “Mondays on Mace” clinics to build player skills, along with major league baseball’s annual “Pitch, Hit & Run” competition— won by Liana Avila from Visitation School; formed all-school tee-ball teams with Covenant Presbyterian and Westside Neighborhood School; and welcomed the Stephanie Younger Group as their third scoreboard sponsor, joining Lulu’s Place and Post 424. They also celebrated the accomplishments of Carlos Chavez, a longtime WDRLL parent, manager, and board member. In his first season as head coach, he led the Culver City Centaurs to the CIF Southern Section Division 7 Finals—exemplifying the leadership and team-first spirit that defines WDRLL. On the field, WDRLL athletes demonstrated exceptional teamwork, sportsmanship and joy. Whether ending games with a cheerful “Thank you, parents!” on Mace Field or laughing in the tee-ball grass, players embody everything youth sports should be.

Fall 2025 Registration is now open! Visit wdrll. org to register and learn more.

Friends of the Great Pyrenees

Back for their 24th appearance in the parade, these Great Pyrenees dogs aren’t just famous and beloved in the Westchester/Playa community! You may have seen them on TV, winning at the Westminster Dog Show. Or perhaps you’ve seen them in the movies “Santa Paws,” “Finding Neverland” or “The Biggest Little Farm,” guarding the livestock of Apricot Lane Farms.

Great Pyrenees also make great therapy and service dogs, not to mention wonderful family pets. After the parade, you’ll find them on the grass just east of the LMU gates. The big white dogs are easy to spot, and they‘re always looking for more fluffy friends to join their group!

Salute to Classic Cars

Who doesn’t enjoy checking out a classic car as it cruises down the street with its shiny exterior and classic design? Combining a little nostalgia and a piece of Americana, let’s cheer on this classic car entry!

Thank you to Net Cruze (Networking

Cruzers) for putting together this entry today.

Started by Fred Gibson, the group consists of mostly retired classic car enthusiasts, who enjoy hanging out and participating in local car shows, and events like National Night Out and Relay for Life.

They also put on Cars and Coffee the second and fourth Saturdays of the month at the Ladera Senior Citizen Center.

501st Legion, Rebel Legion and the Mandalorian Mercs with Road Squadron

The 501st Legion, Rebel Legion and the Mandalorian Mercs are volunteer groups comprised of members that build screen-accurate and meticulously crafted Star Wars universe costumes and wear them while supporting local community and charity events such as Relay for Life, Alzheimer’s Walks, library literacy events and more. The local chapters appearing today are Sunrider Base of the Rebel Legion, Southern California Garrison of the 501st Legion and Manda’galaar Clan of the Mandalorian Mercs. These out-of-this-world groups have now become parade favorites!

Joining the 501st today is Road Squadron.

Founded by Shawn “Obi-Shawn” Crosby in 1999, this group began as a small handful of rag-tag Star Wars tribute cars. Today, Road Squadron has grown to 300 builders around the United States and features creations inspired by many sciencefiction film franchises. Road Squadron has used its vehicles to bring awareness and assistance to more than 200 charity organizations through thousands of visits over their 24 years.

May the “Fourth be with you!”

Mahana Dance Group

Let’s welcome Mahana Dance Company to the parade!

The Mahana Dance Company is a professional Polynesian entertainment and catering company based in Long Beach.

Founded in 2009 and directed by Sunny Purcell, the team proudly represents their cultures through the authenticity of their entertainment, which is modeled after the luau shows in Waikiki and Honolulu, Hawaii.

For more information, visit their website mahanadancecompany.com or check out their social media on Instagram, Facebook and Youtube @mahanadancecompany.

Thank you to Decron Properties for sponsoring this entry!

Clean up Westchester

Let’s hear it for Clean Up Westchester! This amazing group of volunteers has been doing their part in cleaning up Westchester for four years, and has picked up nearly 100,000 pounds of trash from neighborhood streets since it started!

These energetic people all show up twice a month on a popular street like Sepulveda, Manchester, La Tijera or Lincoln, in their bright yellow T-shirts to keep our community clean, which truly shows the positive character of our village!

They are a symbol that we care about how our community looks and feels for our families, friends and neighbors.

This Clean Up Westchester campaign has given all of us new inspiration to give back to our

community! Join them this month on July 5 at La Tijera Blvd. and 77th Street and July 19 at West Manchester

and Airport

Learn more and view their calendar at cleanupwestchester.com.

Rotary Clubs on Fire Trucks

Please welcome Playa Venice Sunrise and Westchester Rotarians, friends of the LAX Coastal Chamber and the Los Angeles City Fire Department!

Rotary is a service group made up of dedicated people who use their “time, talent and treasure” to give back to our community, supporting such projects as scholarships, service projects and today’s parade.

July 1st marked the start of the new Rotary year, and the clubs are welcoming Martha Jeffers and Gwen Vuchsas as co-presidents of Playa Venice Sunrise and Westchester Rotary is welcoming Nicole King as new president!

Learn more about the clubs at rotarywestchester.com and playavenice.org.

Chamber Chair Stephanie Sampson & Honorary Mayor Kristin Hynes

Please give a warm welcome to the chamber’s new board chair, Stephanie Sampson! Stephanie is riding in the parade today with the chamber’s 2025-2026 Honorary Mayor, Kristin Hynes!

Read more about these dynamic leaders on page 14. From the chamber to you, have a happy and safe Fourth of July!

St. Anastasia Catholic School Get ready to tour the City of Angels in true

St. Anastasia style! This year, their float is taking you on an unforgettable journey through Los Angeles, led by their very own school mascot strutting down the red carpet beneath the iconic Hollywood sign! From the glitz of the TCL Chinese Theatre and the waves of the Santa Monica Pier, to the skyline of downtown and the roar of Dodger Stadium, SoFi Stadium, and Crypto.com Arena—this rolling celebration captures the spirit, energy and diversity of L.A.! With each family bringing their creativity to life through golf carts and wagons decked out as local landmarks—from Randy’s Donuts and LACMA to the Walk of Fame and Pinks Hot Dogs—St. Anastasia School invites you to celebrate what makes our city shine.

St. Anastasia Catholic School is proud to be part of the community and the 25th annual Fourth of July Parade! Known for its strong values of faith, family and service, the school is located in Westchester and serves students from TK through 8th grade. They’ve marched in this beloved local tradition for more than a decade, and their float is a colorful tribute to the places, moments, and memories that define Los Angeles. Their collaborative float design reflects the diverse neighborhoods, cultures, and icons that make our city extraordinary—from USC to UCLA, LAX to the Hollywood Bowl, LMU to the Griffith Observatory.

Staying true to the parade’s values, they’ve built their entry using recycled and reusable materials, embraced DEIA principles and highlighted the magic of learning together. Ride with them on the most spirited tour bus in town—your all-access pass to L.A., brought to you with love by the St. Anastasia community!

welcome to our national anthem singer

Seventeen-year-old Kaleo Knight was born and raised in Westchester! She has spent most of her youth dancing hula competitively, singing, chanting and studying Hawaiian with her hula school, studying Japanese, taking acting classes, performing in musical theater, music videos, playing piano, and singing in the community! You may recognize her as a Golden ticket winner from this past season of “American Idol” where she sang her “crazy good” rendition of “And I Am Telling You” from Dreamgirls and her post-show interview on UrbanSoul TV.

Since then, Kaleo has performed for the Lakers’ opening and halftime shows, sang for Google NYC with Digital4Good and The Mint Jazz Club. Already making her mark as a recording artist, Kaleo recently released her newest single called “Talented.” The song is now streaming on YouTube, Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon, iTunes, SoundCloud and various other streaming platforms. Kaleo’s songs “Piano” and “Running Cold” from 2024-2025 are also available for your listening pleasure. In her free time, Kaleo

enjoys singing, songwriting, neuroscience, playing piano and guitar, reading, musical theater, spending time with family and friends, and her dog, Sofie.

Kaleo plans to pursue a future in music, the arts and entertainment! Thank you, Kaleo, for joining us today and sharing your talent!

Ave.

Blvd.

this year’s parade participants

Westchester Little League

Give a warm Westchester welcome to Westchester Little League, a proud charter member of Little League Baseball and a true cornerstone of our community!

Under the leadership of President Josh Schollmeyer and the board of directors, Westchester Little League supports more than 250 youth from more than 10 local schools, giving kids a place to grow, lead and make lifelong friends. With both fall and spring leagues, players sharpen their skills and build character year-round at Nielsen Field, and in the spring, also at Jenny and Slugger Fields. Westchester Little League is more than a game—it’s an opportunity for families to come together, celebrate local pride and create memories that last a lifetime.

To learn more or if you’re interested in joining, visit westchesterll.org and be part of something special in our community!

Immortal Lion Dancers

The Immortals have been performing the Chinese ceremonial lion dance for more than half a century in the Los Angeles area. Their group is composed of family and friends accumulated over several decades.

The lion and dragon dance has been part of Chinese culture for thousands of years and is performed on auspicious occasions, such as weddings, store openings, and various festivals and celebrations. The lion and the dragon are symbols of power, wisdom and good fortune, who chase away evil spirits and bring happiness, longevity, and good luck!

Woman’s Club of Playa del Rey

The Women’s Club of Playa del Rey is paying tribute to iconic dining in the Los Angeles region and the city’s diverse dining options–from street tacos and donuts to the lofty Michelin Star establishments and bacon-wrapped hot dogs.

As Angelenos, we love our food and we love our nostalgic and iconic dining venues! Join the Women’s Club of Playa del Rey in celebrating the culinary medley that makes locals proud and visitors wowed, while honoring the hospitality workers that make it all happen!

The nonprofit philanthropic social club has served the community for 87 years, and now has more than 130 members! Some of their favorite projects include raising funds to support numerous philanthropic endeavors, like awarding more than $40,000 in scholarships to graduating local high school girls and supporting other nonprofits such as Kid’s Ocean Day and A Sense of Home.

The club meets on the second Tuesday of the month at their clubhouse in Playa del Rey. They also host a variety of recurring gatherings such as a walking group, a book club, a movie club and a knitting group.

Riding in the parade today from the Pacific Division is Commanding Officer of Patrol, Captain Celina Robles, along with Pacific Area Boosters Association Board Director, Eric Boulanger. Eric is a local resident, business owner and active volunteer at the Pacific Station.

Thank you to Decron Properties for sponsoring this entry!

LAPD Leaders and Booster Club

It is the mission of the Los Angeles Police Department to safeguard lives and property in the communities it serves; to reduce the incidence and fear of crime and to enhance public safety. The mandate of the men and women of the LAPD is to perform these services with honor, integrity and the highest ethical standards.

Have a safe and Happy Fourth of July from the LAPD to you!

Paseo Elementary School

Paseo del Rey Elementary School is located in the heart of Playa del Rey, and this is their first year participating in the parade!

Paseo is a TK-fifth grade community school that also offers a Spanish Dual Language program. In addition to their academic programs, Paseo offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including a science lab, computer lab, yoga, art, music, and robotics for GATE students.

This year, Paseo is walking in partnership

with STAR Education. STAR is an afterschool enrichment program that also offers summer programs. Joining the school’s float today are the families and staff of Paseo del Rey and their fabulous stingray mascot!

Paseo del Rey Elementary first opened its doors in 1962 and started as a small, neighborhood school with close proximity to LAX and local beaches. Over the years, Paseo has continued to develop its programs, and most recently added Spanish Dual Language. Teachers, parents, students and alumni, as well as the local residents and business community, have enthusiastically supported Paseo. This support has provided students with opportunities for greater academic excellence and cultural diversity, without losing the personal caring, nurturing, safety, and intimacy of a neighborhood school.

Come check out this hidden gem. Call (310) 823-2356 for more information or go to paseodelreyes.lausd.org. Go Stingrays!

Come out and support them for their two major community fundraisers: the fall Maker’s Market craft fair and their annual rummage sale in the spring. Learn more at wcpdr.org

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this year’s parade participants

L.A. City Councilwoman Traci Park

We are honored to have our City Councilwoman Traci Park marching in the parade today! Elected two and a half years ago, she has hit the ground running representing Westchester and the westside of Los Angeles in Council District 11.

She has focused on delivering communityempowering solutions prioritizing public safety, homelessness and quality of life issues that our neighborhoods face. She is also proud to have her field team based right here in Westchester at the Westchester Municipal Building, where they work every day to serve the public. To keep up with the Councilwoman’s work, as well as things going on in the district, sign up for her weekly newsletter! You can sign up on her website at: cd11.lacity.gov!

Thank you Councilwoman Park for joining us today!

Grand Marshal: Los Angeles Fire Fighters with the Westchester Family YMCA

Now it’s time for a truly special tribute from the LAX Coastal Chamber of Commerce and the Westchester Family YMCA—a gigantic

firefighter, marching courageously toward the flames! Designed by renowned special effects artist Dan Garr, this towering creation honors the brave men and women who battled the devastating Palisades and Eaton fires earlier this year. Crafted from chicken wire, wood, paint, and foam, this heroic figure was built with heart—right in the YMCA Annex parking lot—with help from dedicated YMCA volunteers. Marching alongside the float today are some of the city’s most respected and adored members: our firefighters and first responders! Also marching in today’s parade are some of the more than 2,000 volunteers who helped with the fire relief efforts at the Y back in January. Thank you to Dan Garr and the volunteers at the YMCA who worked to create this float as a heartfelt salute to service, bravery, and the power of community!

Since opening its doors in 1952, the Westchester Family YMCA has been a trusted anchor in the community, offering life-changing programs in youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. From swim lessons to teen leadership, the Y is where generations have come to grow, connect and give back. In January, when fires struck the Palisades and Eaton neighborhoods, the Westchester Y led the charge in fire relief efforts, mobilizing more than 2,000 volunteers to provide food, supplies and support to those displaced. The Y’s commitment

to service, inclusion and community-building remains stronger than ever.

Follow them on social media @ westchesterfamilyymca to stay up to date with all their programs and activities!

Saint Monica Preparatory

Welcome Saint Monica Preparatory, the Hometown News’ Best Private High School four years running, and part of the parade since 2017! It’s been another banner year for sports at SMPREP, with Mariner Varsity Boys Soccer winning the 2025 CIF Southern Section Division Championships! Plus, the school had multiple league champions across both its upper and lower schools. SMPREP students, athletes, families, faculty/staff and alumni are proud to ride and walk in the parade along with this year’s CIF trophy.

Congratulations to the SMPREP Class of 2025 on their impressive college acceptances to universities including Berkeley, Boston College, Carnegie Mellon, LMU, NYU, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, UCLA, University of Michigan, University of Pennsylvania, University of San Diego, USC and more.

SMPREP has a nearly 100-year history of offering a place for students to grow in body, mind and spirit within a diverse Catholic

community. The school boasts the Mariner Ocean Research Institute; Japanese and South Korean exchange programs; and strong experiential learning opportunities that include cultural and service-focused opportunities. The TK-12 school is located just blocks from the beach in the heart of Santa Monica. Visit saintmonicaprep.org or contact Roxanna Vega-Warmington ‘97, director of admissions at (310) 394-3701 x1305 to learn more about SMPREP’s transformative education.

As LMU’s new president and your neighbor on the bluff, I look forward to working together to ensure Westchester and Playa del Rey remain vibrant, welcoming, and thriving communities. Together, we will build strong partnerships that reflect our shared values and shape a future filled with opportunity and progress.

PARADE MEMORIES...

Original committee members who helped put on the ﬁrst Fourth of July Parade in the year 2000 share some of their favorite memories and how this event has grown into a community favorite!

“The parade was started in 2000 in honor of the millennium and was intended to be a one-time event. We only printed 1,500 programs in the hopes that a few people would show up. However, as the movie “Field of Dreams” said, “Build it and they will come.”

Well, we built it and they came in droves to view our “hometown parade.” As I looked down Loyola Boulevard and saw all the little children with their decorated bikes, trikes and scooters, and the parents waving their ﬂags and everyone smiling and laughing, I knew there was no way we could not do this again and the parade was born!

My family jumped in to help with the inaugural committee and did so for many years. And my daughter Courtney and I are still on the committee 25 years later. The parade has grown by leaps and bounds over the years and is now a community favorite. One of my favorite memories from the parade is Tai the elephant, who was with us for a few years. One community member rode him in the parade each year, and Tai was very sweet and pranced around batting his eyes at everyone!”

“It was my job to knock on every door on Loyola Blvd. to get permission for the parade. There wasn't much resistance among the residents. Many of them were tenants.

It was extremely challenging to get local organizations to participate that ﬁrst year. We didn't expect many spectators, and thirty minutes before the parade, the streets were still pretty quiet. Suddenly, neighbors were swarming in from side streets. We blew through all of our programs so quickly!

There were a lot of block parties in Westchester at that time, so we planned the parade early so that residents would still have time to go to their block parties afterward. What a joy to see the neighborhood turn up in droves!”

GWEN VUCHSAS

JULIET OMAN

“It’s the morning of July 4, 2000. And after months of planning, the Westchester/Playa del Rey Historical Society had reached the culmination of their “Gatherings” projects, a series of events that were produced to introduce new families to the community. I remember while I was washing down the bleachers on the corner of 83rd and Loyola, that there was not a soul in sight. I kept thinking to myself, ‘We are going to have more volunteers and committee members than parade audience!’

Then as I ﬁnished cleaning the bottom bench of the bleachers, I turned around and poof! Out of nowhere, the streets were lined with families eager to see a parade. This brought great joy to my heart as the parade launched, and it turned out to be more than we expected.

Now, here we are 25 years later, and I have many great memories, but one in particular stands out. My friend Patrick and I built the first, and so far, only “rose float.” The President of the American Rose Society, Dr. Tommy Cairns donated all the rose bushes, and my wife, Bridget Kelly (seated left) and the president of the Tinseltown Rose Society, Helen Richards (seated right) rode atop of the float. It was fantastic!

Since then, we have had horses, dogs and even an elephant in the parade. And the community is richer for it. Thanks to the original committee that donated countless hours and the chamber staff for continuing to move the parade forward in a positive direction.”

“Flashing back to December 1999, Mary Lou Crockett thought it would be a great idea to do something special each month of the new millennium (2000), so she asked Tony Ciancimino to help her plan 12 monthly celebrations. They decided to try to have a parade in July, and asked what is now the LAX Coastal Chamber of Commerce for help and support. Gwen Vuchsas was the Chair of the Board, and she convinced the chamber that this would be a good thing to do.

On July 3, 2000, some of the Parade Committee members were gathered at Rich Musella’s house to fold the Parade Programs to pass out along Loyola Boulevard the next day. We had 1,500 programs and thought that was too many! We were wondering if anyone would show up to view the parade and if the participants would be kids on bikes and mothers with strollers!

On July 4, 2000 at 10 a.m., Loyola Boulevard was ready with bleachers at 83rd Street and Loyola. We were staging at Manchester and Loyola and still wondering if anyone was coming besides the wonderful participants lining up on Manchester. By 10:30 a.m., there were people along the route and residents of Loyola were having watch parties on their lawns!

And then at 11 a.m. the LAPD Helicopter ﬂew over the route and people were cheering! Wow, it was the start of a wonderful community tradition that has lasted for 25 years! Here’s to many more!

Thank you Mary Lou, Tony and Gwen for the wonderful tradition!”

MARCELO CRUZ

JUDITH CIANCIMINO

this year’s parade participants

Loyola Marymount University

Brighten Your Summer with Loyola Marymount University! Join the community for free events, including LMU’s Shakespeare on the Bluff’s performance of “Measure for Measure” on July 10 - 12 and for Summer Movie Night on July 11 for a screening of “The Avengers.” LMU is also proud to host the L.A. Rams training camp again this summer. Joining the LMU float today are the LMU men’s and women’s basketball teams, the LMU cheer squad, and members of the KXLU 88.9 FM radio station team.

Go Lions!

NCWP Star of the Neighborhood A Star of the Neighborhood is someone who quietly makes a difference in our community. They are unsung heroes, but are well-known by the lives they touch. Each Star of the Neighborhood, proudly picked by the Neighborhood Council of Westchester/Playa (NCWP) every year, helps to better the lives of so many in our neighborhood.

This year, the NCWP is proud to recognize Stephan Baum-Harvey as the Star of the Neighborhood! He is being recognized for his work as a dedicated volunteer with numerous community groups, especially ones that are involved with public safety.

Read more about Stephan and your local NCWP on page 36 of the Hometown News.

Westchester Farmers’ Market

sponsors, the Westchester Town Center BID and the Drollinger Family Charitable Foundation.

Stop by to shop for the best veggies, fruits and artisan food. Check out their social media and website for updates at westchesterfarmersmkt.com.

Los Angeles World Airports

LAWA loves L.A.—and they’re moving forward together! This year, they’re celebrating everything that makes Los Angeles shine—from iconic landmarks and sun-soaked beaches to thrilling sports, vibrant neighborhoods, and world-class music!

Let’s hear it for the Westchester Farmers’ Market and the families riding down Loyola Blvd. on their red train! The market brings together farmers, neighbors and community each and every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. to the Westchester Triangle on 87th Street! Now in its 8th year–and growing with every season—the market would like to thank everyone for the community support! They’d also like to give a special shout out to their

And now, there’s one more reason to love L.A.: the future-forward Automated People Mover (APM) at LAX! At LAX, they can’t wait for you to experience the joy of soaking up the sunshine and soaring above traffic on the airport’s new electric train.

With sleek, zero-emissions vehicles arriving every two minutes, the APM will whisk travelers between terminals and transit connections in 10 minutes or less—making airport travel smoother, faster and more sustainable than ever before. Opening in 2026, the APM is the centerpiece of LAX’s multi-billion-dollar transformation and a proud recipient of the Los Angeles Sustainability Coalition’s 2023 Trailblazer Project of the Year Award. It’s not just a train—it’s a symbol of our city’s commitment to innovation, sustainability and world-class guest experiences.

To celebrate this milestone, LAWA’s Airport Affairs team, LAX Airport Police Division officers and command staff, and the beloved PUPs (Pets Unstressing Passengers) from the pet therapy program are proudly representing the airport. Today’s entry is also shining a spotlight on the incredible contributions of their partners, who work together to make LAX a first-class neighbor and a world-class airport. So, let’s give a big cheer to Team LAWA! Thank you, LAX, for supporting our community and helping us soar into the future. We can’t wait to ride with you!

For more information on the Automated People Mover, and LAX’s campus-wide transformation, visit flylax.com or follow them on social media.

Ladies of the Westchester Elks

Here come the Ladies of the Westchester Elks in their classic cars! The group was formed in 1958 with the primary goal to assist the Westchester Elks in building their lodge into something the community can be proud of.

The Lady Elks also pride themselves on their community involvement and philanthropy. Riding in the parade this year are President Janice Solis; and members Angel Valenzuela, Cynthia Perez, Nancy Myers and Lynda Bergmann.

WISH Community & Academy High Schools

Celebrating “We Love L.A.” with a tribute to Los Angeles museums, here comes WISH TK-12 Community and Academy Schools with their collaborative float featuring dinosaurs, museum icons and artistic details created by students from all grade levels.

WISH TK-12 Community and Academy Schools serves students and families throughout the Westchester community, emphasizing both academic excellence and social emotional development for students from transitional kindergarten through 12th grade. This year’s float represents a true school-wide collaboration, with each grade level contributing their unique talents to celebrate the rich cultural and educational resources that make Los Angeles special. The dinosaur displays highlight the wonder of discovery found at L.A.’s natural history museums, while the painted icons represent the diverse artistic and cultural institutions that make our city a world-class destination for learning.

For more information about WISH TK-12, visit wishcharter.org.

Scouting America

Westchester Scouting America builds confidence through thrilling outdoor experiences, character-building leadership opportunities and meaningful service to the community.

Its most recognizable contributions to Westchester are the many Eagle Scout Projects found throughout the city. Programs are designed to give young people the skills they need to unlock their full potential.

Join and be prepared to develop new skills, find new friends and become future leaders! Membership is open to boys and girls from kindergarten through the age of 17, with the Explorers program continuing through the age of 20.

Find local Scouting programs by visiting beascout.scouting.org. Join and have a great time!

Emerson Avenue Community Garden

Joining the parade for its 14th consecutive year is the Emerson Avenue Community Garden! Representing the garden this year is the almost world-famous Wheelbarrow Drill Team! Stop by the garden during the evening and on weekends, located at 8050 Emerson Ave. on the campus of Wright Middle School and WISH, to view the vegetable garden plots tended by local gardeners, volunteer or attend an event or workshop! There’s always something “growing on” at the garden! As their motto says, “Build a Garden, Grow A Community!”

Support the garden by becoming a member for just $25 a year. They also welcome donations to support their mission to pursue sustainable urban organic gardening, and they love to collaborate with other local service organizations. Learn more at EACGC.org/ membership or email info@eacgc.org to inquire.

While we hope you are having fun and enjoying the parade with all the music, floats and marching groups, SAFETY IS OUR NUMBER ONE PRIORITY! A FIRST-AID STATION is located at the northeast corner of 83rd and Loyola. Need a band aid? We have basic first-aid kits at each announcer’s booth, on our golf carts and at the VIP tent at the starting line. Just ask a volunteer in a turquoise parade shirt for assistance. PORT-A-POTTIES are located at 85th & Loyola, 83rd & Loyola and 80th & Loyola. Bathrooms are also available at LMU and Westchester Park.

Please walk your bike or scooter if you need to cross the parade route. Riders that are not with any entry in the parade will be asked to walk their bikes/ scooters to ensure the safety of the parade entries and to keep the parade running smoothly. NEED WATER? Water is available for free at each announcer booth, at the VIP tent and will be passed out along the route by the Stephanie Younger Group. Dog bowls will also be available at the announcer’s booths.

Cheers to our returning parade announcers who keep the event running smoothly: Jon Runkle (Stage 1); Geoff Maleman (Center Stage) and Lisa Schwab (Stage 3).

Mark your calendars for August 9, September 13, and October 11 from 48 PM for a new community summer series designed to bring neighbors together for art, music, food, and fun. This celebration will feature live performances, interactive art, and great local bites, while shining a spotlight on the incredible businesses in and around the Westchester Triangle.

this year’s parade participants

Enjoy the photos in this program from parades from 2013-2024 by Zsuzsi Steiner and Glenn Marzano! Share your 2025 parade photos using #laxcoastalonparade!

BLOW Brass Band

Marching in the parade for the first time this year is BLOW Brass! BLOW Brass is an eightperson ensemble that has performed for Sony, the Super Bowl, and Disneyland, and is so happy to be joining today’s program!

Together since 2020, BLOW is comprised of members that met through playing at USC, Cal State Long Beach, and Disneyland. Combining modern and retro sensibilities with jazz and pop, BLOW transforms well-loved classics into something new and exciting.

Check them out at blowbrass.com!

Westchester Park

One of the reasons Westchester Park loves L.A. is the amazing weather and ability to get outdoors all year round. As community members, we are lucky to have Westchester Park right in our backyard!

At Westchester Park, the recreation center includes two gyms, a children’s playground, a skateboard park, three lighted baseball diamonds and a large lighted multi-purpose field. Community members are invited to sign up themselves and family members for sports and activities like basketball, volleyball, karate, afterschool programs, skateboard lessons, baseball, flag football and girls and boys lacrosse.

The Westchester Senior Center and Banquet Hall, located right off of Lincoln Blvd., offers Zumba, morning walks, concerts, dances, karaoke, chair yoga, bingo, chess, arts & crafts and nutritious hot lunches.

The tennis center also has eight lighted tennis courts and eight lighted pickleball courts!

We love L.A. and we love our parks!

Support your local park through Westchester Park Friends and by visiting westchesterpab.org! Learn about the park’s offerings at laparks.org/ reccenter/westchester or by following them on Instagram @westchesterreccenter.com.

A special thank you to Paul Romeo for providing the vintage automobiles in the park’s parade entry!

Trash Can Band

to high school are always welcome to join in on the fun! Want to learn more about the Westchester Lariats? Check out their website at WestchesterLariats.org!

The Lariats will celebrate their 75th anniversary on September 27, 2025 with a special event! Share your interest in participating by visiting bit.ly/Lariats75 and filling out the form.

Kentwood Elementary School

The Kentwood Koalas are marching with pride, joy, and hometown spirit as they celebrate everything they love about this incredible city!

From the beach to the mountains, “They love L.A,” and they can’t wait to show you why!

Did you know you could turn a regular household garbage can into a musical instrument? Well, that’s exactly what the Trash Can Band has done!

Led by John Melville, here’s the one and only band that makes great music with the help of a trash can! Sit back and cover your ears, because it’s going to get loud!

Westchester Lariats

The Westchester Lariats are celebrating their 75th Anniversary this year! Started in 1950 by Dr. Hall, the Lariats have been teaching folk dances to generations of children here in Westchester! From square dancing to cultural dances from around the world, learning about others through dance and community is always the goal. Dancers from kindergarten

Voted Best Traditional Public Elementary School by the Hometown News and a 2025 California Distinguished School, Kentwood offers an excellent education for grades TK through fifth grade with a diverse range of enrichment for all students, including coding, music, innovation lab, art, gardening, P.E., yoga, dance, theater and more.

Founded in 1945 and located in the heart of Westchester, Kentwood Elementary supports the local neighborhood community. They believe all children can learn and grow to succeed as safe, responsible and respectful members of our diverse and inclusive community.

For more information, visit kentwoodes-lausdca.schoolloop.com, call them at (310) 670-8977, or stop by the school’s office at 8401 Emerson Ave. in Westchester.

Los Angeles Ghostbusters

When there are kids in need, who you gonna call? The Los Angeles Ghostbusters of course!

The Los Angeles Ghostbusters (LAGB) is a nonprofit costume organization that provides an immersive “Ghostbusters” experience while fundraising for kids and family charities like the Starlight Children’s Foundation. Since their founding in 2021, LAGB has raised nearly $90,000 for their charity partners and even spearheaded a national campaign to create “Ghostbusters”-themed hospital gowns for children. Earlier this year, they partnered with other Southern California Ghostbusters groups and raised more than $5,000 for the California Fire Foundation supporting California firefighters, their families and victims of fire disasters. This year, LAGB is looking to raise another $50,000 as part of the Ghostbusters Giveback campaign with Sony Pictures, a national fundraiser in support of Starlight Children’s Foundation. You can help our local heroes by visiting losangelesgb.com and donating today!

Busting has never felt so good!

Westchester/Playa Historical Society

Please welcome the Westchester/Playa Historical Society to today’s parade! Riding in

a classic Thunderbird convertible today are the nonprofit’s board members, a group of dedicated volunteers who work hard to collect, maintain, and present many significant historical aspects of our local community!

The historical society invites everyone to visit their Discovery Center in the Westchester Triangle business district every Sunday morning during the weekly farmers’ market to view their current show, The Drollinger Legacy, and learn more about the history of the area. The Discovery Center provides research opportunities and also hosts events. See you there!

They wish everyone a “Happy Fourth” on this profoundly historical day!

National

Charity League, Beachside

Chapter

The National Charity League’s (NCL) Beachside Chapter may be a newcomer in the parade, but the chapter is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year! Cheer them on as their float featuring a boat with influential Los Angeles women looking out the porthole, makes its way down Loyola Boulevard!

NCL’s mission is to foster positive motherdaughter relationships that are committed to community service, leadership development and cultural experiences. You may have seen some of their members volunteering with local community organizations, such as the Friends of Ballona Wetlands, the LAX Coastal Education Foundation, the Westchester Rotary Club, and the Westchester Library!

Each year, NCL members donate close to 3 million volunteer hours to support more than 6,000 charities throughout the United States. If you are interested in learning more about NCL Beachside and what opportunities may be available to you and your daughter, please visit their website at nationalcharityleague.org/ chapter/beachside. They look forward to hearing from you!

Del Rey American Little League

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls—please welcome Del Rey American Little League (DRALL) baseball! Celebrating more than 70 years of America’s favorite pastime right here in Westchester and Playa del Rey, let’s hear it for more than 330 young sluggers who took the field this season with DRALL!

Let’s give a big round of applause to their 2025 division champions: The Major Marlins, The Minor Red Sox, and the Farm Patriots! And don’t go anywhere yet; their All-Star teams are gearing up to defend their district titles. We’re proud, we’re ready, and we’re saying it loud...Del Rey, All the Way!

Since 1954, DRALL has proudly delivered the very best in youth baseball to boys and girls in Westchester and Playa del Rey. This season, nearly 340 players took the field for another exciting year of community, competition and

sportsmanship. Congratulations to the league’s 2025 regular season champions—the Major Marlins, Minor Red Sox, and Farm Patriots—and to the Majors Padres and Minors A’s, who earned runner-up honors in the District 37 Tournament of Champions.

DRALL would like to wish best of luck to their 2025 All-Star teams as they take the field this summer in pursuit of district titles across all three divisions! Each year, DRALL welcomes players ages 4 to 12 to join in the fun and tradition of Little League baseball.

Fall Ball registration opens later this summer, with spring 2025 registration coming around Thanksgiving. Stay in the loop with All-Star updates and more by following them on Instagram @del_rey_american and visiting DRALL.org.

this year’s parade participants

Thank you to the Girl Scouts for being the parade’s official banner carriers! A special thank you to all the

Uncle Sam on a Classic Car

Here comes Uncle Sam wishing everyone in the audience a Happy and safe Fourth of July while riding in a 1955 blue Cadillac!

Kentwood Players

Kentwood Players has participated in this parade every year since its beginning!

Westchester Playhouse, home to Kentwood Players, just celebrated their 75th year of presenting high-quality award winning plays and musicals!

Within the walls of Westchester Playhouse, Kentwood Players has presented well received and exceptionally reviewed show after show, in their 112-seat theater, located at 8301 Hindry Avenue in Westchester. They’re a nonprofit membership organization of 150 volunteers, dedicated to giving you a great theatrical experience. New attributes abound inside and out.

“She Kills Monsters,” “Real Women Have Curves” and “42nd Street” finish 2025, but the season is not done yet!

Visit their website at kentwoodplayers.org to learn more.

Koshin Taiko Drummers

Koshin Taiko is honored to be a second-time participant in this year’s LAX Coastal Fourth of July Parade! Koshin practices nearby at its home at the Venice Japanese Community Center. Koshin traces its lineage back to the first professional taiko group in Japan, Oedo Sukeroku Taiko, who made history with its blend of classical Japanese music, martial arts and dance. The late Sensei Etsuo Hongo brought the Oedo Sukeroku style to his own energetic compositions when he founded Koshin Taiko in 1992. In Koshin’s unique form, powerful

and beautiful taiko sounds are created through carefully choreographed movements.

The synthesis of powerful sound and graceful movement, along with their visually distinctive Okedou (rope tightened drums), makes Koshin Taiko one of the most dynamic taiko groups in Los Angeles. By incorporating aspects of other styles of drumming while still exploring the rich traditions of Japanese taiko, Koshin continues to live up to their name it was given more 30 years ago which means, “bright heart or spirit.”

For more information about Koshin Taiko, please visit koshintaiko.org or check them out on Instagram @koshintaiko or facebook.com/ venicekoshintaiko. Thank you to Decron Properties for sponsoring this entry.

Visitation Catholic School

All aboard “VIZ Tours,” powered by Visitation Catholic School! It’s the coolest bus rolling through Westchester, and they’re touring everything that makes L.A. extraordinary: our iconic landmarks, creative energy, cultural diversity, and miles and miles of gorgeous sunshine. At the wheel, give a big cheer for their tour guide, Teacher of the Year, Maestra Lucy! Along for the ride are the awesome VIZ kids and their families. Their first stop is the Visitation Walk of Fame, with stars shining bright for our families and sponsors. Just like greater Los Angeles, they’re celebrating Visitation as a place where people from all walks of life come together to imagine, to create and to thrive. This float proudly reflects the heart of our city and the soul of our school—inclusive, joyful, and always reaching for the stars!

A special thanks to the Visitation Float Committee, the dedicated team of VIZ families who worked tirelessly to bring to life a vibrant

and beloved float, celebrating not only our city but, most importantly, our incredible Bulldog spirit! It’s the commitment of families like these, along with our exceptional faculty and outstanding students, that has earned us the honor of being voted Best Private School three years in a row by our amazing community! Go Bulldogs! For more information, visit visitationschool.org.

Charro Horses

The LAX Coastal Chamber is pleased to welcome the Charro Internacional de Compton to today’s parade. A charro is a skilled Mexican horseman, part of a tradition with origins in the 17th century. The charros are seen today in traditional costumes and riding their famous dancing horses.

Chamber Staff & the Fourth of July Parade Committee

Closing down the parade is the chamber staff riding with the Fourth of July Parade Committee and friends!

The chamber team–Chad Maender, Judith Ciancimino, Sheryl Jones and Mary-Catherine Micka–thank you for joining them again this year and supporting this neighborhood tradition!

The LAX Coastal Chamber and Parade Committee would like to say a special thank you to today’s participants, volunteers, sponsors, residents of Loyola Blvd. and elected officials that make this event possible!

We’ll see you next year! Happy Fourth of July!

classic car owners for volunteering to drive in the parade!

terminal, 10 minutes or less.

PEOPLE MOVER TRAINS EARLY 2026

Los Angeles International Airport’s People Mover trains are rolling early next year as part of LAX’s ongoing investments in improving your travel journey. The new trains will quickly move guests between all terminals, new consolidated rental car center, Metro trains and buses, Economy Parking and Kiss-and-Fly lot in 10 minutes or less, and depart every 2 minutes when they open in early 2026. Scan to learn more. lawa.org/community

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

“If

Congrats to the Star of the Neighborhood

Congratulations to community volunteer Stephan BaumHarvey, who has been named the 2025 NCWP Star of the Neighborhood and will be honored during the annual Westchester Fourth of July Parade. The purpose of the award is to identify and honor those unsung heroes of our community who quietly, persistently, and without fanfare, voluntarily perform good deeds that serve the needs of their neighbors and/or the community. Stephan certainly fits the bill!

Stephan Baum-Harvey is a lifelong resident of Westchester and a dedicated community volunteer, deeply invested in the safety and well-being of the Westchester/Playa area. A graduate of WISH Academy High School in Westchester, Stephan is currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at Loyola Marymount University.

Stephan has contributed countless hours to a variety of non-profit organizations, with a strong focus on public safety, neighborhood engagement, and campus safety. He has worked with volunteer teams to implement new technologies for real-time incident alerting, and actively works to provide real-time incident alerts to the public and local neighborhood watch groups, helping keep residents informed and prepared. Stephan’s involvement in campus safety initiatives includes supporting projects to improve emergency readiness and create safer environments for students and staff.

He was recently honored with the Presidential Volunteer Service Award for his ongoing commitment and service. Beyond his public safety efforts, Stephan is a local photographer who documents emergency personnel, local responders, and volunteers, regularly capturing community events and highlighting the positive impact they have on the community. He is also an experienced software developer, consistently exploring and adopting new technologies to improve emergency communications, public safety, and community outreach.

Stephan remains passionate about leveraging both technology and collaboration to build a stronger, safer Westchester/Playa. He looks forward to continuing his work alongside fellow volunteers, developing innovative solutions, and making a meaningful difference in the community for years to come.

Congratulations, too, to the other local residents who were nominated by their neighbors for this annual award:

Jessica Trainham

When she’s not lighting up the screen on General Hospital, Jessica operates a local home organizing business for citizens of Playa del Rey and beyond. She volunteers her services for free for the elderly and young mothers in Cross Creek. She also donates her clients’ unwanted items to foster youth and is often seen cleaning up litter from Toes Beach and Cross Creek.

Alison White

Alison is a Star of the Neighborhood because she generously gives of herself to so many of the community here. She helped start the current Neighborhood Watch chat that she and her neighbors use to monitor crime in their neighborhood. She works directly with the police and community to do community patrols, as well. Alison also works to beautify the community with projects that add value to our neighborhood, has supported Palisades families in their move her, and does a lot of volunteer work in the community with her daughter, Peyton. Alison is also a regular sponsor of events at the Westchester Family YMCA that benefit the entire community.

Tina Vanderjagt

Tina serves as the director of garden management at the Emerson Community Garden, a one-acre portion of the campus of Orville Wright Middle School that has been turned into a sustainable, organic food garden and green space shared by the school and the public at large for the purposes of education and community building. She also served on the Board of directors of Westchester Mental Health Guild and volunteers at Airport Marina Counseling Service, a community mental

health clinic that provides affordable mental health services as well as quality training to therapists. To top it all off, Tina’s house is known as having one of the best Christmas light displays in town!

Cory Birkett (one of last year’s winners)

As a longtime member of the Community Plan Update Ad Hoc committee of the Neighborhood Council, Cory has given untold hours of service to protect residential zoning for our neighborhoods. “Fighting to protect Westchester’s character as predominantly single-family neighborhoods is arguably the biggest issue facing Westchester and its Neighborhood Council,” said her nominator. “Cory is undeniably a leader in this fight and continues to provide critical research and analysis. She most certainly deserves recognition for her efforts to improve and enhance our community.”

Maria Reilly

Maria regularly knits blankets for babies in the hospital as part of the Westchester-Playa Community Welcome blanket project at the library. This program helps new immigrants and refugees and recently had a display at LAX. Maria often invites people to participate with her in neighborhood happenings from the Knights of Columbus Fish Frys on Manchester and volleyball at the rec center to musicals at St. Anastasia. She can be found walking everywhere in the neighborhood and is a true asset to have in the community, raising her family and involved in so many facets of Westchester!

Congratulations to everyone and thank you to all of those who took the time to nominate their neighbor.

Stephan Baum-Harvey

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Random Notes/Opinion

Increase your functional strength to tackle everyday tasks

By Jeff Blair

Opinion: Has this ever happened to you? You go to lift some groceries out of your car, and you are shocked by how heavy they suddenly feel. You remember not so long ago when you lifted the same bags with ease, but now, they feel like a huge chore. Your back might hurt a bit, and you may even wonder where your energy has gone. If you have ever experienced a similar situation, this month’s article is for you! Read more, as I tackle the topic of functional strength, or the strength needed to get through the regular tasks of life with less pain, more energy and greater confidence.

One of the biggest exercise myths is that strength training is only for bodybuilders, competitive athletes or people who spend two hours per day in the gym. The greatest benefit of strength training is allowing normal people like you and me to counteract many age-related challenges and live our best lives. There are few things that can improve our quality of life like consistent strength training.

Over a lifetime, many experience sarcopenia. Sarcopenia is the steady loss of muscle and function at middle age and beyond. Those experiencing

sarcopenia may develop lower stamina, difficulty climbing stairs and problems with simple daily activities like bringing groceries in from the car. Medical organizations, such as the Cleveland Clinic, recommend strength training and a healthy diet to prevent or combat sarcopenia.

After, or even sometimes before menopause, women may experience bone density and other bone health challenges. These challenges increase the risk of later falls and fractures.

Similarly to sarcopenia, both strength training and proper nutrition are typically recommended for improved bone health. The Mayo Clinic notes strength training can put proper stress on bones and reduce osteoporosis risk.

While those experiencing low energy may wonder how they will be able to muster the motivation to exercise, exercise can increase energy. Exercise can help increase energy within muscle cells through increased mitochondria number and size, increased oxygen circulation and improved sleep. According to Harvard Medical School, these three mechanisms can increase energy. Other research shows that those who exercise consistently experience less fatigue. Strength training can also help

manage orthopedic challenges like shoulder, back or knee issues. Most of our clients at the studio are experiencing at least one of these issues. By keeping muscles strong, joints can experience less stress, and you may feel less pain. An injury should always be reviewed by a medical professional, but doctors and physical therapists cannot keep the joints in an ideal condition without an ongoing commitment to joint health through strength training. I would note strength training does not always make all joint pain disappear, but it can usually make it more manageable. Some may experience an elimination of joint pain with consistent strength training. In addition to these benefits for daily activity, increased functional strength can also bring more fun into our lives. When most people go on vacation, they want to be able to experience many things, whether that is riding a bike through the German countryside or climbing stairs in Italy. Being stronger opens the door to enjoying more fun things.

While “it took years to get out of shape, so it will take years to get back in shape,” seems intuitive, almost the exact opposite is true. Most people feel increased strength within weeks

NO WAITING LIST!

of beginning a functional strength program and nearly everyone does within a month. Studies show people can even build muscle within just a few weeks.

We all must adapt to many challenges in life. Midlife physical changes may feel demotivating, but a modest investment of a few hours per week can go a very long way toward mitigating, or even reversing, many of those challenges. Start slowly, learn good form from an exercise professional or knowledgeable friend, and go at your own pace. Patience can be a virtue, so get started, but do not rush. By committing yourself to greater functional strength, you can improve your physical, emotional and mental health and even increase your happiness.

See you in the gym!

Jeff Blair (MS CSCS) is a certified personal trainer with more than twenty years’ experience, fitness book author and founder of the SoCalSport Personal Training Studio. Since 2011, the studio has provided personal training services to Westchester and Playa Del Rey residents. Reach Jeff at jeff@socalsport.com for comments or questions.

Pastor Larry Becker

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The new Women’s Health & Wellness Center at Saint John’s offers personalized, holistic care tailored to each and every patient, offering a full range of mental and physical care solutions, well-women exams, gynecology, cancer screenings, and surgical care. Patients are paired with a patient navigator who assists in care advocacy as well as coordinating appointments to ensure a seamless overall experience. A Women’s Health & Wellness Center that’s actually centered around women is just one of the many ways we treat you for the better.

FROM LOCAL ROOTS TO RED CARPETS

Lynne Delaney is ready for any creative adventure that comes her way from traveling the world as a flight attendant for TWA to dazzling in Tinseltown.

By Sylvia Wilson

You’d be hard-pressed to find someone more “hometown Westchester” than Lynne Alana Delaney. Born into a growing family that settled on the corner of Loyola and 83rd when she was just twoyears-old, Lynne’s roots in the neighborhood are deep, genuine and enduring. Her story, told with equal parts nostalgia and humor, feels less like a Hollywood origin tale and more like a love letter to the community that raised her.

As she steps into the “third act” of her life’s story, Lynne reflects on a journey shaped by resilience, serendipity and creative purpose.

Act One: A Star Is Born

While Lynne was born in Manhattan Beach, her earliest memories include Loyola Village Kindergarten with Mrs. Donaldson and eight formative years at St. Anastasia under the watchful eye of a formidable Sister Superior. But it was a twist of fate in high school that would set her on a new path. After two years at St. Bernard High School, her parents planned a move and informed the school she wouldn’t return. When the move fell through, her spot was gone.

Cue the teenage tears and angst. She transferred to Westchester High for her final two years—initially devastated, but ultimately grateful. There, she found not only new friends and Friday night football games, but also her creative spark. Theater and art classes, absent from her Catholic school experience, opened a door she hadn’t known she needed.

But the arts had always pulled at her. From rhythm class at age three (a precursor to today’s Gymboree), to being crowned May Queen at Westchester Park, to starring in “The Proud Princess” at age 7, where she had to cry on cue, Lynne was already learning the language of performance. She credits her creative drive and strong sense of purpose to her parents. Her father worked in the garment industry, and her mother was in fashion design before devoting herself to raising the family. Their blend of artistry and discipline laid the groundwork for Lynne’s own goal-driven path.

Act Two: The Sky’s the Limit

After high school, Lynne set her sights on the Pasadena Playhouse Theater Arts program with her parents’ full support. But in true Hollywood fashion, the school closed its doors just as she was ready to enroll. Too late to apply elsewhere, she pivoted to Santa Monica College, where fate intervened again: she met her future husband Ruben Roberto Gomez. They would later transfer to UCLA, where they graduated together, setting the stage for a new chapter.

In the early 1980s, the newlyweds were living in a rent-controlled Santa Monica apartment, dreaming of a home. A Westchester friend in real estate suggested they return to her old neighborhood. For Lynne, it was a full-circle moment and conveniently close to LAX, where she was working for TWA.

What began as a summer job between her junior and senior year at UCLA blossomed into a 30-year career.

“Flying becomes more than just a job—it’s a lifestyle,” Lynne says. “The adventure, the camaraderie, the travel, it never gets old.”

With a flexible schedule of about 12 flying days a month, she balanced her love of travel with other pursuits, often jetting off on weekend getaways with her husband in tow.

Her fascination with flight began early. At 15, on a high school photography trip to Europe, she cornered the flight attendants in the galley and grilled them about the job.

“I was hooked,” she laughs. “I couldn’t wait to turn 20 and apply.”

Act Three: Lights, Camera, Reinvention

Even while flying the skies, Lynne never lost her love for acting. She worked in local theater and commercials over the years, but it wasn’t until later in life that she fully embraced her artistic calling.

“It’s a tough business,” she admits. “When I was younger, I didn’t have the connections and honestly, I don’t think I would’ve wanted to attempt it then.”

Today, she proudly calls herself a “working actor” in Hollywood. She’s shared the screen with legends like June Lockhart, Sally Kellerman and Jean Smart, and worked under

the direction of Woody Allen. But her proudest moment? Writing and directing her own film, “The Remake,” based on her self-published novel. The story follows two former co-stars whose offscreen romance ended badly—art not imitating life, as Lynne stars opposite her real-life husband of 49 years, Ruben. They’ll celebrate their 50th anniversary next July 4th.

“We made it on a shoestring budget,” she says. “But it was one of the most valuable experiences of my life. It was like four years of film school rolled into one.”

When she’s not acting, Lynne works as a stand-in and double for other actresses—particularly tall, blonde, mature women like herself. Her most recent ongoing role came about unexpectedly: she was filling in for a friend who had been standing in for a well-known actress, and, as fate would have it, Lynne ended up being a closer match in size and appearance.

“I felt terrible,” she admits with a laugh. “But it turned into a steady gig. It’s fascinating. As a double, you’re on set all the time. You see how scenes are lit, how sets are built, how every detail matters. It’s made me a better actor and a more patient one.”

She’s learned that multiple takes aren’t always about the actors.

“Sometimes it’s a lighting issue, or a camera angle, or a prop that needs to be handled just right,” says Lynne. “Understanding that has given me a whole new appreciation for the crew and the process.”

Curtain Call

Lynne and Ruben remain active in the industry and their union, attending committee meetings, industry events, and SAG-AFTRA screenings. But their days begin and end close to home, often with a walk through the neighborhood or a visit to Chase Park in the Marina with their beloved Shih Tzu, Samantha.

From busgirl to stewardess to actress filmmaker, Lynne Delaney’s life has unfolded in three acts—each one distinct, each one driven by curiosity, courage and creativity. Her journey reminds us that the most extraordinary stories don’t always begin in faraway cities; sometimes, they take root on the corner of Loyola and 83rd, nurtured by grit, grace, and a whole lot of heart. Now in her third act, Lynne is still embracing the spotlight, still learning, still creating and she’s not ready to take a bow just yet.

Photo

Zsuzsi Steiner

Lynne poses at her Westchester home after a long week of being on set.

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Local mom finds her stride (cont’d)

(continued from page 6) women join us, because I feel like they have so many questions. It’s been a really nice synergy to have all of these fresh moms give advice to the pregnant women, so it’s been great to see all the different stages supporting each other,” she says.

The walks last about 90 minutes, and flexibility is key.

“Come as you are. If you’re 45 minutes late because your baby had a blowout or you just couldn’t get out the door, it’s totally fine,” she says with a laugh.

Each gathering starts with introductions: moms share their names, neighborhoods, and their child’s name, followed by a conversational prompt. After that, the group sets off on a stroller-friendly route, chatting in buddy pairs and rotating partners on the return to encourage broader connections.

And there are perks. Alicia often partners with local businesses to offer treats and refreshments, like cold brew and croissants from Capri Gelato or personalized boxes of macarons from Playa Vista Farmers’ Market favorite, Nature Macarons.

“It’s completely free to attend the walks,” Alicia says. “Sometimes we’ll do special events. I’m hosting a ‘Mommy and Me’ class with Yoga Bliss in Westchester, and they were generous enough to give the moms a discounted

class rate, but the regular walks are always free.”

A Place for Dad!

Alicia says the walks, at their core, are really just for moms. But that doesn’t mean the group won’t ever do family events.

“I’ve heard from so many of the moms that their husbands would never join a dad group, so if we all did something, as families, they would love that. I’m actually planning to do something in August so the dads can meet each other,” she says.

Building Community

For Alicia, the transformation from a lonely new mom to community builder

has made a big impact on her life.

“At first, I started this because I wanted to make friends,” she says. “But after the very first walk, I realized I was just the vessel. It became about creating space for other moms to find what I was looking for–connection, support, and a reminder that we’re not alone.”

The impact goes beyond the walks themselves. Moms are forming friendships that extend past the stroller circuit.

“It’s so beautiful seeing moms start making plans with each other outside of the group. That’s when I know this is really working,” she says.

Alicia recalls one early walk when a

shy mom was walking alone, unsure of how to join in. Alicia watched as other moms noticed and quickly welcomed her into the group.

“That’s exactly what this is about. Everyone deserves to feel valued and included. Just getting out of the house in the postpartum phase takes so much courage. I always tell them I’m proud of them,” she says with a warm smile.

Because of the walks, Alicia says she’s also discovering new details about motherhood all the time.

“Just the other day, one woman was telling me how she’s now weaning off of breastfeeding, and she’s fully expecting a complete hormonal dip. I’m also starting the weaning process, and I had no idea to expect a hormonal dip. I kind of thought, ‘You just wean them off, and that’s that. Like, haven’t we been through enough?’” she says.

Advice for New Moms.

For any mom feeling overwhelmed or isolated, Alicia offers this simple message: “Just try. Put yourself out there. You’re not alone, even if it feels like it. Come as you are and give yourself the gift of community. You just might find your people. And that’s everything,” says Alicia.

This month’s walks include outings on July 15 and 29, as well as “Mommy & Me” yoga on July 10. Learn about upcoming events on Instagram at @themomwalkco.playavista.

walk with the Mom Walk Collective.

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Business & Nonpro t News

Westchester California Team Challenge readies for August 2 competition. Ten community groups will battle it out on August 2 at the fourth annual Westchester California Team Challenge at St. Bernard High School. The teams will compete against each other in field games like bocce ball, a football toss and corn hole in the spirit of community building, and of course, bragging rights! The competition is organized by Amy Frelinger and Grant Francis as a way to bring community members together for a day of fun and movement, while raising money for beautification efforts in Westchester. This year, the event hopes to raise $25,000 for the Westchester Streetscape Improvement Association.

Save the date for The Book Jewel’s film fest.

Calling all filmmakers! The Book Jewel, Westchester’s independent bookstore, will host its inaugural Short Film Festival on September 13, and they’re looking for submissions!

Filmmakers are asked to submit movies with a maximum runtime of 10 minutes in all genres by August 15. Films suitable for PG-13 will be shown in the early viewing, and R-rated movies will be shown during the late viewing.

The entry fee to participate is $10, and there will be prizes for the winners. For more info and to submit your film, visit thebookjewel.com or email emma@thebookjewel.com.

The Book Jewel is located at 6259 W. 87th St. in Westchester, and they recently announced new hours. The shop is now open Tuesday through Thursdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Friday and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The store is closed on Mondays.

Mental Health Guild readies to host Casino Night.

“Caribbean Casino Night” is the theme of the Westchester Mental Health Guild’s next fundraiser, set

Last month, the Kentwood Players opened their home, the Westchester Playhouse, to Theatre Palisades for their production of “Jest a Second!” by James Sherman. The play ran from June 12 through 21. This collaboration among westside community theatres was in response to the loss of Theatre Palisades’ home venue in the Palisades wildfires just three days before “Jest a Second!” was set to open. Next up for the playhouse is “She Kills Monsters” a comedic romp into the world of fantasy role-playing games. Kentwood Players is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year in Westchester, while the Theatre Palisades has been operating for more than 60 years. Learn more at kentwoodplayers.com. Pictured: Representatives of Kentwood Players and Theatre Palisades (Jonathan Fahn, Lou Saliba, Martha Hunter, Phil Bartolf) gather for opening night of “Jest a Second!”

for September 13 in the Knights of Columbus Hall in Playa del Rey. The event will feature Vegas-

style games like roulette, blackjack, and craps, which can be played for prizes. Each person buying a ticket

will receive an equivalent amount in gaming chips, and the winnings can be used to bid on a variety of raffle prizes, including wine and spirits, gift cards and gift baskets.

WMHG is a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising funds to support Airport Marina Counseling Service (AMCS), which provides low-cost mental health counseling and trains therapists. Both organizations were founded in the early 1960s and continue to play a vital role in the community.

For tickets or more information, visit westchestermhg.org.

New Jazzercise studio opens.

Get your leg warmers and leotards ready because Jazzercise Los Angeles just opened in Del Rey! The popular high-energy dance fitness program that was a staple of the 80s, opened on June 27, and combines nostalgia, fun and fitness for all ages and abilities.

“We’re thrilled to launch the full magic of a Jazzercise center in Los Angeles. It’s more than just a workout–it’s a celebration of movement, music, and fun,” said Merria Velasco, owner of Jazzercise Los Angeles. “Retro fitness is having a moment, and Jazzercise is (continued on next page)

Ayara Thai celebrates July with Thai Thursdays. This July, while the nation celebrates America’s birthday, Ayara Thai is serving up a true American story: one built by immigrants, flavored by heritage, and fired over Thai binchotan charcoal. For five Thursdays in a row, the Westchester restaurant will take to 87th Street with Thai street food, a chef collab, and bold community spirit, honoring the immigrant contributions that continue to shape the soul of this country and the fabric of L.A.

“As a Thai restaurant owner and chef, I’m often asked if my food is ‘authentic’—usually meaning, ‘Is it really Thai?’ But people forget that I’m also American,” says co-owner and Executive Chef Vanda Asapahu. “July is America’s birthday month, and I’m excited to celebrate by cooking beyond borders, outside the lines. This series lets me explore all the parts of who I am—Thai, American, Angeleno, immigrant, chef. Food doesn’t have to fit neatly in a box to be real. Neither do we.” Learn more and RSVP at ayarathai.com.

(continued from page 40) all about embracing the past with a modern twist. From the music to the choreography, we make fitness feel like a party. But don’t let the fun fool you–this heart-pumping workout is no joke and incorporates dance inspired moves with weight training in every class, leaving you sweaty and smiling.”

Students can expect classes that combine pop, jazz, hip hop and top 40 music in an inclusive, fun and challenging environment. Single class pricing starts at $30, while an unlimited monthly membership at $149.

For more information, visit jazzercise.com or follow the new studio on Instagram and Facebook @jazzerciselosangeles.

Marina del Rey hosts July 4th fireworks.

Celebrate America’s birthday by

Resilience

watching the stunning 20-minute annual Fourth of July fireworks from Marina del Rey! Prime viewing spots are available at Burton Chace Park and Fisherman’s Village, with synchronized music during the show, which starts at 9 p.m. The fireworks will be launched from a barge in the Marina’s main channel.

Expect added traffic in the area on July 4th and arrive to MdR early to explore the area on the Summer WaterBus! For $1 per person, you can travel throughout the harbor. The open-air water taxi will run from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

For more details, a list of street closures and holiday parking rates, please visit beaches.lacounty. gov/4thofjuly.

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

Contact

Contact us today to schedule a tour at our fantastic apartment communities: Playa del Oro, Playa Paciﬁca and Playa Marina!

Visit our website to view our Career Opportunities and join our dynamic team! DE CR ON PROPER TIE S Contact us today to schedule a tour at our fantastic apartment communities: Playa del Oro,

Contact us today to schedule a tour at our fantastic apartment communities: Playa del Oro, Playa Paciﬁca and Playa Marina!

Visit our website to view our Career Opportunities DE CR ON PROPER TIE S Contact us today to schedule a tour at our fantastic apartment communities: Playa del Oro, Playa Paciﬁca and Playa Marina!

Visit our website to view our Career Opportunities and join our dynamic team! CR ON TIE S

Visit our website to view our Career Opportunities and join our dynamic team! DE CR ON PROPER TIE S

Contact us today to schedule a tour at our fantastic apartment communities: Playa del Oro, Playa Paciﬁca and Playa Marina!

Visit our website to view our Career Opportunities and join our dynamic team!

Photo by Robert Higgins

Digital Detox Adventure

On Saturday, June 28th, the Westchester Family YMCA held their first-ever “Parks & Peaks Hike: A Digital Detox Adventure.” Taking place at Kenneth Hahn Park, the 2.5mile, phone-free trek through nature offered a refreshing opportunity for teens and community members of all ages to disconnect from screens and reconnect with the outdoors! Before setting off on the trail, participants’ phones were collected in a bag, securely held by YMCA staff and volunteers, and returned at the end of the event. During the hike, participants took part in a sensory scavenger hunt, using nature-themed bingo cards to “collect” items that appealed to all the senses—like babbling brooks, turtles and eucalyptus.

All in all, the event was about slowing down, appreciating the

beauty of nature and spending meaningful time connecting with others. The hike had a great turnout and was a much needed, fun-filled, and grounding break from technology.

Personally, I hope the Westchester YMCA continues to hold this event—not only next year, but for many years to come. YMCA activities like the Parks & Peaks Hike are so influential in getting individuals, specifically teens, more involved in the YMCA and in the Westchester community as a whole.

As a teen involved in the YMCA, I find events like this incredibly meaningful in promoting wellness and bringing people together. The Westchester YMCA’s inclusive programming continues to inspire youth like myself to be more engaged and active in our local neighborhood.

–By Eva Sun, Westchester Family YMCA Teen Member

YMCA Teens Unplug for a Day— and Plug Into Nature!

Photos

Eva Sun and Sophie Davis