A LOOK INSIDE THIS MONTH'S HTN HOMETOWN STAFF/CONTRIBUTORS
In Pictures: AMCS Spring into Well-Being Gala 34
HOMETOWN STAFF/CONTRIBUTORS
HOMETOWN STAFF/CONTRIBUTORS
Stephanie Davis, Publisher
Shanee Edwards, Contributing Writer
HOMETOWN STAFF/CONTRIBUTORS
Sylvia Wilson, Contributing Writer Jeff Blair, Contributing Writer Zsuzsi Steiner, Photos Robert Higgins, Photos
ABOUT THE HOMETOWN NEWS
ABOUT THE HOMETOWN NEWS
A LOOK INSIDE THIS MONTH'S HTN HOMETOWN STAFF/CONTRIBUTORS
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
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Mailing Address: 8939 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Ste. 110 #745
Westchester, CA 90045
Email: westchesterhometown@yahoo.com
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Front page: Tony P’s Dockside Grill owners Tony Palermo and Danny Ringwood pose for a photo in front of their Marina del Rey eatery with one of their famous mai tais. Photo by Zsuzsi Steiner
The Westchester Town Center BID is home to great businesses, restaurants, retail and services providers! Check them out for all your shopping needs!
Please make “Shop Local” your mantra for 2025– it’s not just a slogan, it helps keep the businesses we love thriving!
Tony P’s bids a fond farewell after 28 years
By Shanee Edwards
After 28 years in Marina del Rey, and a partnership that began more than 50 years ago that included cross-country moves, beach parties in restaurants, and at least one monkey in formalwear, Tony Palermo and Danny Ringwood are calling it a wrap on their legendary restaurant careers. Tony P’s Dockside Grill, their iconic waterfront hangout, is closing at the end of June, but not without one last round of stories, smiles, and a few mai tais.
“We’re not dying, we’re just retiring!” Tony says with a laugh. “I’m finally going to find out what a happy hour is!”
But they didn’t just build a business, they built an institution, making the decision to close difficult, but inevitable. Their lease is up, and both Tony and Danny are ready for a well-earned break from the hectic restaurant industry, which they say has changed dramatically since they opened their first spot, Teasers, on the Santa Monica Promenade in 1985.
“Back then you could throw a prime rib in the oven, get 12 slices, and life was good,” Danny says. “Now, it’s a whole different ballgame.”
Between soaring utility bills ($9,500 in the summer for electricity alone), rising food and labor costs, and a post-COVID world where restaurant margins are thinner than ever, the pair decided it was time to trade in the kitchen chaos for a more relaxed pace. But they’re quick to say they’re not bitter, just ready.
“We’re the lucky ones,” says Tony. “Most guys our age in the business are sick, dead, or broke.”
From Motor City to Malibu
The duo has been working together since they were teenagers in Detroit. Their big California dream began when Tony won a multi-state chili cook-off
in Michigan and had to come to Malibu Beach for the finals. One trip to the SoCal coast, and he was hooked.
“He came back and said, ‘Dude, we’ve got to move,’” says Danny. So they packed up a U-Haul and landed in Redondo Beach with no jobs, but plenty of determination. They hustled their way into jobs at the Hard Rock Cafe and Trump’s in West Hollywood before opening their own place–and never looked back.
It all comes back. I’ve always looked at life that way, that if you give to the community, it comes back. “
Beach Parties, Loyal Employees and Parade Fails
In the 1980s, anything seemed possible for the restaurant biz, but only Tony and Danny would think to turn a Santa Monica restaurant into a literal beach party. When they owned Teasers, they brought in truckloads of sand and turned the place into a playa. When the party was over, they hauled the sand back to the coast in the wee hours of the morning–only to be caught by beach patrol.
“I thought, ‘Oh, it’s Heineken,’” says Tony, who can’t always remember everybody’s name, but usually remembers what they drink. “Heineken goes, ‘Tony, what the [BLEEP] are you guys doing here?’ I said, ‘We’re giving you some sand.’ He says, ‘You can’t do that!’ And I said, ‘Well, we don’t know what the problem is.’ Finally, he says, ‘Just get it done.’ And he pulled away. This was four o’clock in the morning.”
Employees have also stayed loyal to Tony and Danny, including one of the current hostesses at Tony P’s, whose mom worked for them back in ‘86. But Tony and Danny said they have to be careful about the stories they tell the younger generation.
“The hostess’s mother was named Pinky. She had pink hair. We used to have vintage cars on the patio in Santa Monica and we went for a joyride, which we shouldn’t have. And we’re doing a prank where we jump out of the car and run around it before hopping back in in Westwood, and Pinky almost got hit. And we’re telling her daughter this story and she goes
home and just busts her mom’s chops,” says Tony, smiling and shaking his head.
Their Westchester Fourth of July Parade debut was equally memorable: Tony filled a massive flatbed truck with kids and 100 American flags. One sharp turn under Loyola Boulevard’s tree canopy later, and every flag was snapped clean off.
“Pop-pop-pop! All the flags broke,” he says. “Lesson learned.”
The Party That Lives in Infamy Back in the early 2000s, radio hosts from the “Jamie and Danny Show,” (Jamie White and Danny Bonaduce, (continued on page 12)
Photo by Zsuzsi Steiner
Now and then: Tony and Danny pose in front of the restaurant during their opening year and in May 2025. Below: Tony helps kindergartners make pizza during a field trip to the MdR eatery.
Business & Nonpro t News
Westchester High Softball team wins City Championship.
The Westchester Enriched Sciences Magnets Varsity Softball team made program history on May 30 by winning their first-ever CIF Los Angeles City Section Division IV Championship title with a commanding win, fueled by grit, heart and standout performances from a young but resilient roster. The team defeated LACES 12-9 at Birmingham Charter High to win the title.
Led by senior co-captain Raine Green, the Comets surged past their opponent with timely hits, defensive toughness, and unmatched team energy. Green, a four-year varsity shortstop, delivered two clutch hits— including a triple—and drove in three runs.
“The key to our team’s success this season was definitely uplifting each other,” said Raine. “Once we roar in the dugout, everyone stays alive.”
Courtesy Justin Cohen
Get Summer at the YMCA.
The Westchester Family YMCA is inviting all teens, ages 12 to 18, to become a member for free this summer! Now through August 15, parents can register their teens at the Y, who can then start enjoying all the center has to offer, from swimming and workouts to special events and more! The “Get Summer” schedule includes weeks with different themes like “Get Creative,” “Get Fit,” “Get Together,” “Get Outdoors,” and more! View the full list on the Y’s facebook. com/westchesterfamilyymca page.
Get details on registering at ymcala. org/getsummer to enjoy all the programming at the Y, and don’t forget to check out the Y’s camp schedule for a chance to explore the great outdoors and add some adventure to your vacation plans!
“All that was going through my mind was that I could not let my team down,” said Laylah. “I had to win this for these girls—especially Raine.”
Sophomore pitcher Laylah Ali anchored the team both on the mound and at the plate. Laylah racked up eight strikeouts and is a strong candidate for Western League Pitcher of the Year. At the plate, she cleared the bases with a pivotal double in the sixth inning, finishing with two hits and three RBIs.
Head Coach Justin Cohen praised the team’s unity and resilience.
“These girls never quit. They stayed positive, picked each other up and showed what belief and preparation can do.”
The Westchester Family YMCA is located at 8015 S. Sepulveda Blvd. in Westchester.
Metro Transit Center in Westchester readies to open.
The new LAX/Metro Transit Center is finally scheduled to open (continued on next page)
The LAX Coastal Chamber celebrated educators at its May 14 Teacher Eddy Awards dinner at the LAX Marriott. More than 300 teachers, business leaders and education supporters were in attendance to cheer on the Outstanding Teachers of the Year, which were selected by their peers and administrators, and each received a crystal “Eddy” award. The event also recognized Jennifer Buscher, volunteer from Cowan Elementary and Raj Makwana, volunteer from WISH Community School, with Friends of Education awards. Pictured: The 2025 Outstanding Teachers of the Year pose for a group photo during the event.
Photo by Zsuzsi Steiner
Westchester Enriched Sciences Magnets’ Varsity softball team poses for a celebratory team photo after their historic win on May 30. Said Pitcher Laylah Ali, “This team doesn’t feel like just a bunch of girls playing softball–it feels like we’re a family.” Congratulations to the team for taking home the championship title for Westchester!
The Westchester Family YMCA has partnered with Hot Buttered Elves owner, Dan Garr, to build the Grand Marshal float for the 25th Annual Fourth of July Parade. The event has the theme, “We Love L.A.” and the Grand Marshals will be the heroes of the LAFD. The float, which will feature a towering firefighter bravely battling a blaze, will be sure to be the parade’s stand-out entry. Dan has a history of creating award-winning floats for the parade, including an astronaut, bald eagle and surfers enjoying the waves. The YMCA is taking the project lead on this float, and will be looking for volunteers for this fun community project. More details will be made available on their Instagram and Facebook pages @westchesterfamilyymca!
(continued from previous page) on June 6 at 5 p.m., after its projected November 2024 opening was delayed. The center, which is on the K Line, will offer easy access to other stops on the K and the C lines. Once the airport’s Automated People Mover (APM) opens in 2026, one of the station’s main functions will also be connecting travelers and employees to the airport. From the station, riders will be able to hop on the APM and travel on the approximately 2.25-mile elevated train roadway into LAX.
“The wait is nearly over, Los Angeles,” said Supervisor and L.A. Metro Board Chair Janice Hahn. “At long last, we are getting a train to LAX. And when the LAX People Mover finally opens, we will truly have an international airport that connects people from inside the terminals to the world beyond, through Metro.”
The LAX/Metro Transit Center is located at Aviation Blvd. and 96th Street in Westchester, and will also offer a bus station, passenger
drop-off area, customer service center and bike parking.
Learn more at metro.net.
Share your favorite parade moments and memories.
The Fourth of July Parade is celebrating its 25th anniversary this July and over the years it has become an important part of the fabric of Westchester! To help commemorate this milestone, we’d love to hear from the community what the parade means to them and their families!
Whether you watch every year, have marched down Loyola Blvd. or even volunteered with a local organization to build a float, if the parade has been part of your summer traditions, we encourage you to send us a blurb of your favorite memories! We’ll feature some of these submissions in the Hometown News’ July Parade Program!
Please email htn@thehtn.com by June 20 for a chance to be featured. Have info to share about your business or nonprofit? Email us at westchesterhometown@yahoo.com.
Photo by Zsuzsi
DESIGNING SPACES & CRAFTING STORIES
As an interior designer who has traveled across the globe and back again, Julie Williams has left her mark on some of the world’s most beautiful spaces and hotels.
By Sylvia Wilson
A quiet Westchester kid who always loved art and buildings now designs properties all over the world that leave a lasting impact on anyone lucky enough to visit.
For more than two decades, Julie Williams has been shaping commercial spaces with a deep understanding of design and storytelling. A Westchester native, she grew up attending Kentwood Elementary, Orville Wright Junior High, and Westchester High School. Her early leadership experiences—including participation in Youth & Government and roles as a YMCA Camp Counselor and Y&G Advisor—helped foster a strong sense of community, something that later influenced her approach to collaborating with other designers and architects. Her connection to her hometown runs deep. Julie’s grandparents planted roots in the neighborhood in 1967, purchasing the home that would become central to her family’s story. After her grandfather’s passing, Julie’s parents moved in with her grandmother before Julie and her sister were born.
A Passion for Design, Sparked Young
Julie’s love of design was evident from a young age. Her parents, who worked in hospitality, encouraged her curiosity by exposing her to the beauty of buildings through their work in hotel management. As a child, she would build massive Lego projects and elaborate Calico Critter scenes. At one point, she covered her toy chest in paper and meticulously illustrated a neighborhood—complete with grass, flowers, and houses—before placing figurines around it and refusing to let her sister touch it.
Then, as a teen, she pored over home decorating catalogs, envisioning how bedding and paint colors would transform her space.
Her first mentor, the mother of a classmate, was an interior decorator designing a local home. Julie vividly remembers one conversation where she realized her hobby could turn into something more.
“I realized this was a career I could study and build a life around–something I truly loved,” said Julie.
Her desire to hone her craft led her to Arizona State University’s College of Architecture and Environmental Design, where she earned a five-year accredited B.S. in Interior Design. Studying classical architecture broadened her perspective, revealing that interior design goes far
beyond residential spaces.
During school breaks, she spent time at Marina del Rey’s Intra-Spec Hospitality Design, where seasoned mentors immersed her in the fast-paced world of hospitality interiors and taught her the intricacies of specifications, budgeting and conceptual boards. She landed her first job in Phoenix, where she worked alongside a mentor from her school, handling commercial interior design for office buildings and hospitals. There, she enjoyed selecting finishes, writing specifications and managing materials libraries.
Shaping Spaces Around the World
After nearly a decade working for Los Angeles-based firms, Julie’s career took a pivotal turn when a product vendor introduced her to Powerstrip Studio, a boutique multidisciplinary design firm renowned for its work on resorts, hotels, residences and commercial spaces. Now, after several years with the studio, she has contributed to high-profile projects across the United States—including Chicago, Philadelphia, Alexandria, Nashville, Miami, Key Largo, Key West, Jackson Hole, Palm Springs and San Francisco—and internationally, with projects in London, Grand Cayman, and now Istanbul.
Julie’s latest undertaking in Istanbul is set on the historic grounds of the Golden Horn, once home to centuriesold shipyards and a military base. This iconic inlet—its shape reminiscent of a horn—naturally divides the European and Asian sides of the city, creating one of the world’s most storied harbors. Julie is excited about the opportunity to bring this project to life since she says, “the site sat empty for years.” Now, the location is undergoing a remarkable transformation. The project will weave together past and present, featuring two stunning hotels, vibrant retail spaces, and a museum dedicated to preserving the rich history and artifacts of the area. A lively marketplace will invite the public to explore local flavors and artisanal goods, while luxury residential towers will rise above, offering breathtaking views of the Bosphorus. Julie will travel to Istanbul next month, immersing herself further in the details of her vision that blends heritage with modern sophistication. Finding Inspiration
Julie finds her inspiration for her design projects in history, fashion, architecture and art.
“The beautiful objects, buildings, spaces, dress, films and paintings that (continued on page 14)
Pictured: Julie has used her creativity and design skills to create inviting spaces around the world, but closer to home, you can see her work at The Rowan Palm Springs (pictured).
Host: Dr. Mimi Hoang (she/her)
Keynote Speaker: Alphonzo Hicks (he/him)
Guest Speaker: Freddy Puza (he/him)
Tony P’s bids a fond farewell (cont’d)
(continued from page 4) known for “The Partridge Family”) decided Tony P’s would be the perfect place for a Cinco de Mayo party. Only one problem: Tony was fully booked with a huge Loyola Marymount University event.
“So I said no, and they yelled, ‘Fine! We’ll make it Cuatro de Mayo!’” says Tony.
A stage was built, mattress companies showed up as sponsors, and Los Lobos, just coming off a hit record, played live. Somewhere in the middle of it all, an actual couple got married, and their bridesmaid? A real live monkey.
“That monkey walked around like it owned the place,” Tony says. “I’ve got a photo of it giving me a kiss. It’s still on my wall.”
Fundraising and Pizza Parties
While the wild stories are unforgettable, it’s their deep ties to the community that cemented Tony P’s as a neighborhood institution. Tony and Danny have partnered with hundreds of nonprofits and schools over the last two-plus decades, hosting a fundraiser give-back program where a portion of the week’s sales would benefit the organizations. Today, they’re proud to have given back hundreds of thousands of dollars as part of their “Dockside Dollars” fundraisers.
from Visitation and St. Anastasia schools would tour the kitchen, make their own pies, and get a dessert surprise.
“One time, I squirted whipped cream into a teacher’s mouth, and the kids went nuts,” Tony laughs. “It turned into a full-blown party.”
The tradition became so beloved, that parents now bid for the chance to chaperone. And this year, when a teacher scheduled a visit with her students, and Tony tried to explain what to expect, she stopped him: “Tony, I was in the very first kindergarten class you hosted 22 years ago!”
“That’s when I realized how long we’ve been at this,” Tony says. “And how many pizzas we’ve made.”
This month, Tony and Danny will be hosting a class from St. Anastasia that didn’t get to have a pizza party because of COVID. They’re now in fifth grade and couldn’t be more excited.
Of all the organizations Tony P’s has benefited over the years, it’s really the schools that hold a special place in Tony and Danny’s hearts.
“It’s unbelievable. I mean, they come in and by the end, I got four or five of them holding my hands and they’re my buddies. It all comes back. I’ve always looked at life that way, that if you give to the community, it comes back,” says
seven or eight years in a row,” says Tony.
A Legacy That Can’t Be Measured
After nearly three decades of running a 12,000-square-foot restaurant with nearly 100 employees, Tony and Danny are ready to say adios. But their impact will linger in the memories of all the visitors who celebrated special moments at the restaurant, from birthdays, happy hours, graduations, weddings, funerals and everything in between. Anyone who has dined at the restaurant knows that Danny and Tony excelled in making sure that the thousands of strangers who walked through their doors left feeling like part of the family.
overlooking the marina, its awardwinning tavern with every game possible playing on the TVs, and its friendly atmosphere—but when it comes to its menu, the fish and chips with more than 350,000 orders and the world-famous mai tais that have been ordered more than 300,000 times, are the real crowd pleasers.
When the LAX Coastal Chamber of Commerce held its ChamberFest event in Playa Vista, Tony and Danny knew the drinks were key in winning over the small business community.
“We’d go over with 10 gallons of mai tais and some turkey sandwiches. No one wanted turkey sandwiches. They all wanted mai tais. We did that
“A special shout-out and thank you to the over 400 nonprofits that we have helped through the years,” said Tony. “Together, we have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for your events, and in turn, you have been great loyal customers. It has been a true ‘what goes around comes around’ in our life! We will miss all of you!”
And that, Marina del Rey, is something to raise a mai tai to.
Diners have until June 29th to visit Tony P’s Dockside Grill for one last cocktail, one more order of a Tony P’s Special Salad with “no bones” and one more round of memories!
REGISTER TODAY FOR REGION 7’s FALL SEASON! Join our community’s soccer league for ages 4 - 18. Registration closes July 29. Games begin in early September. Have fun! Make friends! Develop your soccer skills!
Danny and Tony have a friendship that goes back nearly 50 years and a partnership that has seen them own two successful restaurants.
Somewhere along the way, healthcare forgot about the care part. Prioritizing profits over patients. Their numbers over your needs. But there’s a place that cares for you like a person, not just a patient. They understand that the better they get, the better you’ll get.
Better response times for stroke patients.
Better ways to treat cancer.
Better maternity care that continues after birth.
This is no ordinary community. And this is no ordinary hospital. Around here, helping you get better is everything.
Saint John’s
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Designing spaces and crafting stories (cont’d)
(continued from page 10)
humans have created over centuries–in every part of the world—hold so much wonder,” she says.
Fashion, in particular, plays a significant role in her work.
“I have designed several drapery treatments based on details from dresses and uniforms I’ve come across,” she shares.
Among her many projects, one stands out as a favorite—the renovation of London’s historic St. Ermin’s Hotel. Julie reimagined the interiors with inspiration from Christopher Dresser, an influential British designer whose AngloJapanese and British Art Nouveau styles shaped design worldwide. To fully immerse herself in the building’s history—originally a monastery—Julie spent three weeks living at the hotel. She studied the curvature of the structure and explored its 67 different room types, ensuring that her redesign preserved its architectural essence while elevating its elegance.
“This one turned out to be one of my favorites because the hotel turned out so lovely, and it is still one of the top hotels in Europe,” she reflects.
The design process for St. Ermin’s mirrored many of her other projects— beginning with concept imagery, followed by public space renderings, and then fine-tuning custom details, such as fabrics, carpets, lighting and bedding. The ability to take an idea from concept to reality is what fuels her passion.
“It is such a satisfying feeling and truly a wonderful thing to see in real life what you imagined on paper,” she says.
A Career Woven into Family and Home
Julie cherishes the travel opportunities her work provides, allowing her to absorb local cultures and integrate them into her designs.
“I have been so fortunate to work on boutique projects in so many different cities across the globe. I love visiting these beautiful places, soaking up their
she says.
properties, blending creativity with functionality to help clients shape spaces that tell their own stories.
Julie’s personal journey is just as intertwined with design and place. In 2002, she met Cedric Williams while working at her first firm. He had joined the architecture firm next door, and each morning, Julie watched his profile as he drove past her window. A quiet admiration evolved into love, starting with casual mail deliveries, then coffee dates, then dinners that cemented their connection. In 2007, they married in Sayulita, Puerto Vallarta. Together, they have two sons, August, 11 and Ellis, 9, who bring boundless energy and curiosity to their lives.
“It’s funny to note that I grew two children in the time it took to complete one of my hotels,” she laughs, recalling her work on The Rowan Palm Springs.
After nearly a decade living in Victoria Park, Mid City, the couple’s rental home was sold in 2017, prompting a move to Julie’s childhood home in Westchester—a full-circle moment that keeps her deeply connected to her roots. Their children now attend WISH Community School and are growing up in the same neighborhood that nurtured Julie’s lifelong passion for art, architecture and design. Her mother, known to the children of their school as “Grandma Janet,” volunteers in the WISH school library, further deepening the family’s bond to 90045.
A Story Still Being Written
Julie Williams’ journey—from a young girl sketching imaginary neighborhoods to a designer shaping spaces across the world—proves that creativity and perseverance can turn childhood dreams into global influence. Each project, from Los Angeles to Istanbul, is a testament to her ability to blend history, artistry, and functionality into surroundings that will inspire visitors, travelers, locals and dreamers for generations to come.
Photo by Zsuzsi Steiner
essence, and pulling inspiration from the surrounding environments,”
Beyond hospitality design, Julie has built a successful consulting business for residential and commercial
One of Julie’s favorite projects was the St. Ermin’s Hotel in London (pictured).
TUESDAY-SUNDAY
WEDNESDAY-SUNDAY
PLAYA VENICE SUNRISE ROTARY CLUB
WE ARE FUN! WE ARE FRIENDLY! WE HELP OTHERS!
Visitation School; the Mark Twain Bell the Westchester Senior Center, and
Chapala, Mexico; providing ultrasound machines in Uganda and working on a grant for women in Malawi, Africa. Today, through the hard work and dedication of its members, the club is acknowledged as a leader in the Rotary world and the community. Who would have thought that the vision of those 20 charter members would turn into
joined along the journey to bring new ideas and energy! The club prides itself friendship and service” and is proud of its programs, energy, enthusiasm and dedication to making the community,
ADOPT-A-FAMILY PROGRAM PROVIDES HOLIDAY CHEER
For many years, the club has come together for a heartwarming tradition that embodies the true spirit of the holiday season. Rotarian members all give generously with their time, energy and unique talents to provide the families at the Mar Vista Family Center with an unforgettable Christmas experience. Thanks to the generosity of our club members and volunteers, several families are selected each year to receive gifts from their personal wish lists, along with essential household items that help
meet their daily needs. This initiative is more than just a seasonal charity—it is a program that gives and, in return, receives. The club celebrates this project with a festive gift-wrapping party each December where all the members gather to get their presents ready to deliver to their adopted families. Over the years, the club has seen the lasting impact of this effort. Children from recipient families have gone on to pursue higher education and later returned to support their community—volunteering, mentoring,
and I know we have made a huge impact in the lives of so many in our community and beyond.
teaching, and even contributing financially to the very center that once supported them.
The club’s partnership with Mar Vista Family Center goes beyond the Adopt-A-Family program, and we also support MVFC’s Literacy Fair and their annual fundraising luncheon. Members are passionate about volunteering at the center’s weekly food distribution events, as well.
Happy 20th anniversary to my beloved Playa Venice Sunrise (PVS) Rotary Club!
It has been my honor to lead us this past year along with my Co-President, Brady Connell, our Foundation President, Gail Goldstein and our entire Board!
I am proud to say that I have been with this club since the year it began in 2005, and I have seen some incredible service projects and acts of personal generosity over the years. I am particularly proud of our club’s focus on youth and education,
It is with heartfelt gratitude and love that I congratulate our Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary family for their benevolent spirit and compassionate service.
Visit our website at playavenice. org to learn more about our awesome club!
LISA SCHWAB, CO-PRESIDENT
PLAYA VENICE SUNRISE
ROTARY CLUB 2024-2025
PAST PRESIDENT 2O09-2010
PLAYA VENICE SUNRISE ROTARY CLUB
Celebrating 20 Years of Service!
SAFER SIFTING PROJECT AIDS WILDFIRE VICTIMS
Just a few days after the recent wildfires, Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary heard about the dangers homeowners faced when they returned to their properties that had been badly burned and destroyed to search for items in the rubble and ash. Toxins from the ground and in the air could enter through the eyes, nose, mouth and skin. When the club was told about the value of sifters, and the need for full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for people visiting their properties, the club knew that this was a project that would help fire victims and something they could jump on quickly! Every day counted because some homeowners, fearful of looters, and bulldozers, had already began searching for items by hand, shovel or rakes, without proper safety equipment.
The purpose of the project was to provide sifters, and PPE, to as many fire victims as possible, as fast as we
could, to help them safely search their properties. With the large number of fire victims, and with the increasing scale of the project, the club knew it would need additional resources, money, and volunteers. Luckily, PVS Rotarians reached out to three other clubs for assistance–Santa Monica, Westwood and Wilshire–who jumped to help, both with volunteers and financial assistance. The club also received a Fire
Relief Grant from the Rotary District to help with the funding of supplies.
The club consulted with a community crisis expert to guide us through the process, and thousands of dollars worth of supplies and equipment were purchased, including shovels, gloves, goggles, sifters, booties, respirator canister masks and protective suits. The Rotarians set up shop at Barker Hangar at the Santa Monica Airport and
concentrated on getting the word out to the fire victims that they had sifting kits and were offering training on how to use them. While the distribution of supplies was an emotional experience for all, the program was badly needed for the families. The clubs were able to organize three different distribution dates and trainings. The teamwork was incredible as each family was escorted by a Rotary volunteer through the assembly line to receive their items. The Rotarians were happy to carry the equipment to the families’ cars and helped them load; and of course, there were a few hugs and tears.
All in all, 300 kits with important safety supplies and more than 3,000 snacks were distributed. The project lifted the spirits of many of these families from both the Pacific Palisades and Altadena area, and our club was proud to lend a hand in the recovery effort.
CHARITY BUILD-A-BEAR BRINGS A SMILE TO ALL
In 2013, the Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary Club began its Charity Build-A-Bear program. The club built bears for the children of Los Angeles County General Hospital and every year since then, the club members gather at the local Build-A-Bear store in Culver City to make about 40 bears or other popular characters or animals. Currently, the club has donated more than 400 bears, each one bringing a smile to the face of a young child. The staff at the hospital carefully matches the child with the bear they think that child would like the best. And sometimes it isn’t the patient, but a
traumatized family member. These bears go home with the children as a treasured friend.
The club raises money through our foundation to fund this project. Very often, club members bring their family members to the event so it turns into a wonderful family affair. After the bears are complete, the club members head off to dinner for an evening of fellowship. Many of the members have expressed that this is their favorite event of the year.
FUNDRAISING EVENTS HELP US SUPPORT OUR PROJECTS
We want to thank the community for supporting Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary’s fundraising efforts over the past 20 years, which enables the club to do all its many wonderful programs, projects and sponsorships. The club’s fall fundraiser is a Cultural Dinner held each October with a different country or culture theme. A nonRotarian community member is also
honored at this event and presented with the Sunrise Community Service Award for outstanding service and dedication to the Westchester/ Playa community. The event is a fun-filled evening with a fabulous dinner, entertainment, music and auction, which sells out every year. The Cultural Dinner was started in 2007 and a few of the club’s past
honorees include John Theuer, David Herbst, Karen Dial, Javier Cano, Sibyl Buchanan, Tony Palermo, Garrett Smith, Tom Flintoff, Trevor Daley, Jane St. John, Nancy and John Edwards, Stephanie Younger, Eden Garcia-Balis and Lory Sarlo.
The spring fundraiser is the very popular Luck O’ The Irish BingoFest which also sells out each year. It is
always in March and centered around St. Patrick’s Day with live Irish music, corned beef & cabbage, an auction, a raffle and lots of ways to win! The night is tons of fun and has become a signature event for the club! The club could not do these successful fundraising events without the support of the community, and our sponsors, which is greatly appreciated!
More than 300 kits were distributed during the PVS Rotary Safe Sifting Project.
L-R: 1. Stephanie Younger poses with her family at the 2019 Cultural Dinner where she was honored. 2. Past Cultural Dinner awardees John and Nancy Edwards and friends celebrate Oktoberfest at the 2024 Cultural Dinner at the Elks Lodge. 3. Guests have fun at the club’s annual BingoFest event, which is a popular fundraiser that sells out every year.
PLAYA VENICE SUNRISE ROTARY
CHECK OUT SOME OF OUR FAVORITE PROJECTS & PROGRAMS
ANNUAL SANTA TOUR
One of our most popular events is the annual Santa Tour! Every December, the club brings Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus and his band of elves to the community while riding the LAPD sleigh! Santa is also accompanied by two fire trucks in the caravan. There are four neighborhood stops, from Playa del Rey to east Westchester, and the locations can change from year to year. At each stop, holiday music fills the air while Santa’s helpers pass out candy canes. There is also a photographer to commemorate the occasion, with the photos then posted to the club’s website so everyone can download their picture! It is a very spirited evening spreading holiday cheer, and the club’s unique way to give a holiday gift to the community!
\PANCAKE BREAKFAST
Everyone loves pancakes, and everybody loves firefighters! Our club is a fan of both, so we hold three pancake breakfast events each year: at Fire Station No. 5 in Westchester; Fire Station No. 63 in Venice; and at the very popular Rock Roll & Run for Education at Loyola Marymount University. These events are always a hit with local families and extremely well attended. The club partners with the LAX Marriott Hotel and Los Angeles World Airports for the Fire Station No. 5 breakfast and is one of the sponsoring partners of the LAX Coastal Education Foundation’s Rock Roll & Run. The money raised by flipping flapjacks is then used by each station to fund items they need for the firehouse.
SUPPORTING AMCS
We pride ourselves on supporting many community partners and have been a proud supporter of the Westchester Mental Health Guild and Airport Marina Counseling Service (AMCS) since the club’s founding. The Guild’s primary mission is to raise much-needed funds for AMCS, which is an incredible resource that offers community-based low to no-cost mental health services. In addition, AMCS provides excellent training for therapists and vital individual, group counseling and parenting education at local schools and organizations through their AtRisk Kids Program. The club remains committed to supporting this invaluable organization, especially through its sponsorship of the Spring into WellBeing Celebration Fundraising Gala!
SOUTHLAND HONOR FLIGHT
The club is honored and proud to partner with Southland Honor Flight, an organization that takes WWII, Korean and Vietnam vets to Washington, D.C. for the weekend to visit the monuments that were created in their honor. The trip happens twice a year and it takes 36 wheelchairs to transport the vets around D.C. These wheelchairs are stored year-round in a warehouse and a team of Rotarians travel to pick them up and deliver them to LAX in the early morning hours before the vet’s flight takes off. The process is reversed when they return on a Sunday after their weekend visit. However, this time at the terminal, the families and friends of the vets are waiting at baggage claim with personal signs and waving flags, while bagpipes play to greet the vets and welcome them home.
PLAYA VENICE SUNRISE ROTARY CLUB
SUPPORTING EDUCATION THROUGH SCHOLARSHIPS & MINI GRANTS
Helping youth is an important avenue of service for Rotary International.
When Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary Club was founded many years ago, the club focused on providing scholarships to community students so that they might further their education. Starting with four $1,000 scholarships, the club has worked hard to raise money for this program!
With the support of sponsors and grants, the program has grown dramatically, and this school year, the club is proud to announce that 22 $1,000 scholarships were awarded to deserving students from 22 different local public and private high schools! These recipients were chosen from a pool of 126 applications, and the students will be attending trade schools, colleges and universities across the country.
In growing the program, the club has taken particular care to establish scholarships across a variety of interests and disciplines. Now, the club offers scholarships for students in the areas of leadership, “Service above Self,” technology, media, fine arts, athletics, women in STEM, first in family to attend college, education, vocational education, business/finance and health sciences. The club is very proud that eight of the scholarships are privately
funded, and many are in memory of family members and friends who have represented character worthy of remembrance.
The scholarships are presented at an Annual Scholarship Gala held in May, where recipients and their families are welcomed to “walk the red carpet” and be acknowledged at an Oscar-like evening of “step and repeat” photo ops, an amazing catered dinner and raffle prizes. Each recipient is also presented with a swag bag, a City of Los Angeles personalized proclamation, a scholarship award check and the
opportunity to be acknowledged in front of friends and family. It is a fabulous event to honor graduating high school seniors, and a wonderful opportunity for the club to continue to provide meaningful investments in local students! The program is a perfect example of the club’s commitment to Youth Service through Rotary. As much as they love supporting students, Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary also is passionate about supporting teachers! That’s why one of our signature programs is the Teacher MiniGrant program! The program provides
small grants to fund special classroom projects for TK-12 grade teachers from local schools.
Most teachers are creative and have wonderful ideas and visions for fun, engaging projects in their classrooms. However, there is generally no funding available in a school’s budget to pay for these types of programs or needs. Projects we’ve provided grants for in recent years include a saltwater aquarium, scrapbooking materials, field trips, books, science discovery kits, math games, DVDs, playground equipment, printers, classroom/art supplies, math tools and manipulatives and plants for school gardens. Teachers are awarded a minimum of $75 and a maximum of $200, and two teachers can also collaborate for a $400 grant.
While the program started many years ago with only $1,700 in funding for a handful of teachers, it has also grown tremendously over the years! Now, the club gives out between $17,000 to $20,000 annually to an average of 75 teachers. The club holds a special Awards Breakfast for the principals of all the local schools to present the grant checks for their respective teachers. To date, the club has given out more than $350,000 to teachers to support their students and classrooms!
The Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary Club’s 2025 scholarship award recipients pose for a group photo to celebrate their achievement.
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move right in. Recently painted, beautiful hardwood floors throughout. This 3 bedroom, 2 bath has a fully permitted ADU in Kentwood. As you enter the fenced front yard you are welcomed with a large front deck and meticulously landscaped yard. Upon entering the home you are greeted by a bright and open floor plan, bathed in natural light and providing a perfect layout for sharing with family and friends. A wood-burning fireplace makes cold nights cozy. The living room, dining room and fully remodeled kitchen–boasting an island, stainless steel appliances and recessed lighting–flow seamlessly for everyday living. There is a large primary suite with ample closets tucked away for privacy and a retreat; and two other bedrooms that share a remodeled bathroom. The backyard leaves nothing to want, with a large patio or relax amidst the lush grassy area, brimming with plumeria, avocado, nectarine, peach, tangerine, Meyer lemon, and blood orange trees. The adjacent ADU offers endless possibilities, perfect for guests, extra entertaining space, a private home office, or whatever needs you have!
ensuring every occasion feels special. Two secluded bedrooms and bath offer a tranquil escape, ensuring visitors feel cherished and pampered. A convenient powder room and dedicated laundry room complete the main level floorplan. Ascend to the lavish primary suite, a retreat designed for relaxation, complete with a spa-like bathroom and his-and-her closets, where every detail whispers comfort and luxury. Two generously sized bedrooms share a beautifully appointed bath, alongside a private office for inspiration and creativity. This extraordinary residence is more than just a home. Seize the opportunity to make this enchanting haven your own, where every day unfolds with beauty and unforgettable memories.
Random Notes/Opinion
Work on your balance for a healthier future
By Jeff Blair
Opinion: “My balance is awful. It’s something I want to work on,” is something I hear in nearly every fitness consultation. While we may think of balance as solely an issue impacting older adults, nearly everyone expresses concerns about balance. I will explore balance issues in this month’s article and offer some tips for improvement.
Balance is a complex process that involves interaction between your brain, muscles, eyes, inner ear and proprioceptors, which are balance sensors in your joints and muscles. Your balance can be negatively impacted by any or all of these. If you are experiencing balance challenges, always visit your doctor as they will usually check for vision and inner ear issues. Those are outside my scope of practice, but keep these important factors in mind when addressing balance.
Strength, proprioception and practice are issues that a fitness professional can help improve, however. Think of balance as a loop between your brain, your muscles and your proprioceptors. When you were a child, you likely fine-tuned this loop as you rode bikes, climbed trees and simply engaged in unstructured play. Once we become adults, most of this activity stops. “Look mom–no hands!” becomes a memory as we get down to the business of adulting. I have noticed even when people are physically fit, balance often gets forgotten as we exercise solely on treadmills and other extremely stable exercise machines.
Here are three exercise strategies that can help you prioritize and improve balance.
1. Perform some exercises while standing on a single leg.
A 30-second single-leg stand
can be a good start. Perform a singleleg stand by simply elevating one foot off the floor and balancing on a single leg for 30 seconds. Once you complete that, switch to the other leg and repeat. It is almost universal that people will have better balance on one leg, so be sure and practice on both legs. Balance can also vary daily and therefore is not 100 percent consistent. I encourage people to stand near something they can grab or hold as they begin single-leg exercises. Be appropriately conservative depending on your individual situation.
Over time, you may be able to perform exercises like bicep curls while standing on one foot. These exercises provide an added challenge and strength benefit to single-leg activities.
2. Get stronger.
Strength is always important for balance. Your leg and core muscles keep you upright and moving with confidence in changing environments. As muscles weaken, staying stable becomes more difficult. If you think of your body as a building, muscles provide the foundation of the building. Strong muscles make for a strong foundation. Note that many people have a variety of orthopedic limitations such as shoulder, back and knee challenges. Navigating through those challenges and still getting stronger is the path forward in 2025 rather than allowing those limitations to prevent you from getting stronger. Few people over 50 live without some orthopedic challenges. I have a right hip challenge. Getting as strong as you can within the limitations you have is the best strategy to improve balance and maintain a high quality of life. Be realistic but try to improve your strength. As your muscles improve in response to resistance training, you might even surprise yourself. As my mom’s trainer frequently tells her, “You
are stronger than you think.”
3. Consider adding movement to further improve balance.
Once strength is improved and single-leg activity has been used, movement might be added to further improve balance. A heel-to-toe walk is an example of a bodyweight movement exercise that may improve balance. A single-leg deadlift is an advanced strength-training exercise we utilize that incorporates both strength and movement. Balance is always a dynamic process and adding movement in a controlled setting can help connect the dots for many people.
I encourage everyone to remember that just because you might not be able to do all balance-benefiting exercises does not mean you cannot do something to improve balance. Get as strong as you can and add in singleleg, balance-specific and movement activities, after getting approval from your doctor or physical therapist.
By committing to improving your balance, you can enjoy a happier and healthier future. Your future self will be grateful when you arrive.
Jeff Blair (M.S., CSCS) is a certified personal trainer and fitness book author who founded the SoCalSport and Fitness Personal Training Studio in Westchester in 2011. He began his personal training career after seeing the impact of poor health on his dad’s life. Reach him at jeff@socalsport.com for questions or comments.
Pastor Larry Becker
YOUR 2025 SUMMER EVENT GUIDE
Summer fun at LMU: Shakespeare on the Bluff & Movie Nights
Various dates | 8 p.m.
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 “The Winter’s Tale” on June 12, 13 and 14 and “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 “Wicked” on June 27 and “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.
Beach Movie Nights in Playa del Rey
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:
• June 6: “Shrek”
• June 13: “If”
• June 20: “Toy Story”
• June 27: “Moana 2”
• July 11: “Encanto”
• July 18: “Dog Man”
• July 25: “Inside Out 2”
• August 1: “Lilo & Stitch”
• 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 summer lineup.
25th Annual Fourth of July Parade:
Friday, July 4 | 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
“We love L.A. ”
The LAX Coastal’s Fourth of July Parade presented by Decron Properties is celebrating its 25th anniversary with the theme, “We Love L.A.!” The theme pays tribute to everything that makes the city shine, from world-class music venues and iconic landmarks to vibrant neighborhoods and everything in between! The parade is excited to honor the heroes of the LAFD as this year’s Grand Marshals.
The event will feature approximately 50 entries, including floats, marching bands, classic cars, community groups and more. The parade takes place along Loyola Blvd. from Westchester Park to LMU. Check out next month’s edition of the Hometown News for more info and the parade program. Get info on participating, volunteering and sponsoring at laxcoastal.com.
Summer events at Runway Playa Vista
Various dates
Every Wednesday this summer starting June 4, Runway Playa Vista will be transformed into a boutique farmers’ market from 4 to 8 p.m.! The Summer Night Market will feature local makers, delicious eats and more!
Then, on Thursdays, stop by Joliet for “Tacos & Tunes” from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Guests can enjoy live music from local artists on the patio or in the speakeasy, while partaking in happy hour and snacking on yummy tacos!
If shopping is more your thing, the Creative Communal Artisan Market is back on Saturday, June 7 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Expect 30+ vendors showcasing their unique wares, photo opportunities and live music.
Runway Playa Vista is located at 12775 Millennium Drive in Playa Vista. Get the scoop and learn more at runwayplayavista.com.
Photo courtesy LMU
Summer Stroll in the Triangle
Various Saturdays
New event alert!
Local business leaders are hard at work planning an inaugural event in the Westchester Triangle dubbed the “Second Saturday Stroll.” The event will take place August through October with the goal of bringing residents together for a fun, engaging event that builds community, while shining a spotlight on 87th Street businesses!
While still in its planning stages, committee members are hoping to feature interactive art installations, family-friendly activities, live music, food and drink specials from local businesses and more.
More details will be available in the July edition of the Hometown News!
YFest: A Mind/Body Expo
Saturday, August 16 | 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Westchester Family YMCA will host its first YFest: A Mind/Body Expo this summer. The day of wellness will bring together the best of movement, mindfulness and community to the YMCA’s Annex for interactive demonstrations, educational booths and activities.
Some of the planned events include Pickleball for Parkinson’s demonstrations, a community drum circle, creative activities with certified art therapists, body composition testing, health tips and more! The Annex is located at 8020 Alverstone Ave. in Westchester.
To apply to be a vendor or to receive sponsorship information, please email Dawn Everard at dawneverard@ymcala.org.
25th Annual Elks Lodge Car Show & Chili Cook-Off
Saturday, September 13 | 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Check out the coolest classic cars in town at the Westchester Elk Lodge’s 25th Annual Car Show & Chili Cook-Off. The Elks have a reputation for bringing the fun, and every September the community is invited to head to their clubhouse for a slice of Americana, where attendees can peruse vintage mustangs, hot rods, and big-finned cars, while enjoying a BBQ, drinks and visiting with hundreds of your neighbors! And don’t forget to head to the chili cook-off tents to vote for your favorite recipe, as well!
The event is free to attend and food and raffle tickets are available for purchase. Proceeds benefit the Elks’ charities.
The lodge is located at 8025 W. Manchester Ave in Playa del Rey
Westchester Arts & Music Block Party
Saturday, September 20 | noon to 7 p.m.
The Westchester Arts & Music Block Party (WAM) is celebrating 10 years of bringing art, live music, and community vibes to Emerson Avenue! Bring the whole family to this can’t-miss Westchester event, and enjoy a day of live music, performances, a beer & wine garden, vendors, food trucks, family-friendly activities in the Emerson Avenue Community Garden, and so much more!
Start the day by exploring 50-plus booths featuring vendors with one-of-a-kind items and artisan food products for sale. Then check out the local businesses and organizations hosting games, giveaways and activities. Of course, for those 21-plus, no visit to WAM is complete without heading to the beer & wine garden for a frosty drink, with the proceeds going to a nonprofit partner.
Stay tuned for more details on this year’s celebration, and learn about vendor and sponsor opportunities at wamblockparty.org!
by
Photos
Robert Higgins
Hear from your co unity
Summer Break: From chaos to calm–a guide for families with special needs kids
By Kristina Medina
As the school bell rings its final chime and summer unfurls its sunkissed arms, families with special needs children are gearing up for a season of sunshine and spontaneity—or are they? While the idea of endless days of freedom sounds dreamy, for many, the prospect of unstructured time can feel more like a full-time job. But fear not! With a sprinkle of planning and a dash of creativity, summer can become a season of joy, growth, and cherished memories.
•
Reflecting on Past Summers
Before diving into this summer’s plans, take a moment to reflect on previous seasons. What activities brought joy and success? Which ones led to meltdowns or stress?
Understanding these patterns can guide your decisions this year. For instance, if last summer’s trip to a crowded amusement park was a sensory overload, perhaps a shorter trip with structured indoor breaks featuring a favorite activity might help. You might also recognize recurring challenges, allowing you to better prepare your child for those activities—or perhaps try something new. If your child is old enough, consider discussing it with them. Open-ended questions (thanks, Ross Greene!) like, “Hey, I was thinking about when we go to Lake Awesome, I noticed you never want to go in the canoe—what’s up?” can provide valuable insights when your child isn’t actively worried or upset.
• Set a Summer Goal Together
Summer isn’t just about filling days— it’s about making them meaningful. One way to do this is by creating a family summer bucket list. Gather everyone around and ask each person to choose a few things they’d love to try or do over the break. Whether it’s a backyard camping night, a trip to a local museum, or learning to bake a new treat together, this collaborative activity helps everyone feel involved and excited. Plus, it gives you a roadmap to the season, turning “I’m bored” into “What’s next on our list?” Display your bucket list on the fridge or in a shared space to keep the momentum going. And remember, the goal isn’t perfection—it’s about enjoying the journey and making memories as a family.
• Transitioning into Summer
As summer approaches, all kids need reminders of what rules to follow and which home routines should
activity, like a big Lego build.
2. Vacation (Weeks 4–6): The first week focuses on preparing my son for vacation. He doesn’t particularly enjoy the beach, but loves spending time with his cousin, who does. We spend time in the elements, getting used to the sensory inputs together. Then, vacation fun! Afterward, a week to let his system recover from the stress of vacation, with low demands during that time.
3. Coder Camp (Weeks 7–9): Finding an activity your child enjoys is crucial! My son enjoys Coder Camp, so we enroll him close to when school starts to help him get used to the routine of being around a large group of kids again. This is strategically placed toward the end of summer to ease the transition back to school.
During these weeks, I reestablish rules, routines, and schedules with my son’s input, considering what has gone well and what has been challenging during other periods. Each section has its own vibe and expectations, providing a sense of organization amid the summer days.
• Embracing the Journey
While planning is essential, flexibility is equally important. Some days will go as planned, and others will veer off course. Embrace the unexpected moments—they often lead to the most memorable experiences. If you take away one thing from this article, let it be this: reflect on the past to help navigate the present.
So, as you prepare for a summer filled with laughter, learning, and a touch of chaos, remember: you’re not just filling days; you’re creating a season of growth and joy for your family.
remain in place. Involving your kids in creating those rules and routines can enhance their buy-in. Keep it simple! For children who thrive on structure, making a schedule together can be beneficial. A strategy that has worked for me is scheduling consistent mornings and designating afternoons as “out-of-the-house time,” which includes outings, playdates, and some flexible time, but still within a structured framework.
For some children, the idea of summer can feel overwhelming. Breaking the summer into manageable chunks can help. Think of summer as a three-act play. This is an example of my summer:
1. School’s Over (Weeks 1–3): This period serves as a reset after the school year. We spend mornings together at the pool, my son hangs out with friends, and we embark on weekend trips. I also try to include a shared
Kristina Medina is a dedicated educator with more than 15 years of experience in the field. She is the proud owner of Inspire to Achieve, a specialized education center and pediatric gym located in Playa del Rey, California. Inspire to Achieve offers a range of services, including specialized tutoring, executive functioning support, social skills groups, friendship groups, individualized occupational therapy, and occupational therapy specialty groups. As the center continues to grow, plans are underway to expand services to include speech therapy and more in the future. Visit weinspiretoachieve.com to learn more about their programs and offerings or scan the QR code!
At top: Inspire to Achieve owner Kristina Medina (right) poses with Mariana Newsam, the center’s occupational therapist.
At bottom: Kristina celebrates her recent grand opening with her family, which included a ribbon cutting and proclamation from the LAX Coastal Chamber.
Photos by Zsuzsi Steiner
By Shanee Edwards
Both Lerners started their lives in Eastern Europe, Gabe in Moldova and Ellyn in Ukraine, before calling the Russian-Jewish community of Chicago home. It was in Chicago where they first met at a friend’s birthday party back in 2011. But Ellyn was convinced Gabe wasn’t her type.
“I went out with one of his friends for a little bit,” she admits, laughing. Eventually, she agreed to a date with Gabe, but didn’t mince words when she wasn’t feeling the spark.
“Midway through, I told him, ‘Yeah,
this isn’t going to work out.’”
But Gabe wasn’t fazed.
“She promptly rejected me, which is fine–I could handle it. I appreciated the honesty. Besides, I’m a moral person, I value clear communication, and it’s actually great that the communication was there.”
The two decided to stay in the friend zone, with Gabe continuing to show up at her birthday parties and occasionally checking out her friends for potential dates. Then one day, Ellyn texted him out of the blue.
“I was finally at a point in my life where I wanted somebody that was
reliable. I wanted somebody who’s honest and could make me laugh. I wanted a family. The guys I was dating just weren’t cutting it. I think it was my mom who reminded me that Gabe had a job and wasn’t living in a basement, so I texted him,” she says matter-of-factly.
Gabe seized the second chance, adding, “If a beautiful girl texts me, I’m not going to say no!”
A second date eventually turned into an engagement on Chicago’s popular Kinzie Street; and later, the name of their first child, a daughter named Kinzie to honor the Chicago culture
that brought them together.
Gabe was working as a software engineer while Ellyn completed her optometry degree, doing clinical rotations that sent her bouncing between California and Texas. Despite the long-distance, they made it work–and fast.
“We moved in together early on, did road trips, met each other’s parents, and then she left for rotation,” Gabe says. “When you survive all that in the first year, you kind of know.”
Considering how non-traditional their courtship was, it’s no surprise their wedding was less than
conventional, too. In 2014 Gabe and Ellyn tied the knot in the Dominican Republic and invited their entire crew, telling them to simply come if they could. More than 70 friends and family joined them for the tropical celebration.
“It was perfect,” Ellyn says. “We’ve always done things a little differently. That’s just us.”
In 2017, their daughter Kinzie was born eight weeks premature. Ellyn spent months in the NICU and ultimately decided to pause her career to be at home during therapy and recovery.
“It was a gift to be there with her,” she says.
But after one too many bone-chilling winters and realizing that pushing a stroller through slush wasn’t the dream, they traded snow for sunshine and made the leap to Los Angeles in 2019.
“Chicago summers are amazing,” Ellyn says. “But then people completely forget how miserable the winters are.”
After stops in Marina del Rey and Santa Monica, they found their sweet spot in Playa Vista.
“At first I thought it was too much like Pleasantville, with everyone pushing strollers,” she laughs. “Then I realized: I am a mom pushing a stroller.”
These days, Ellyn is fully immersed in the neighborhood. She’s vice president of the Friends of Playa Vista School booster club, helps coordinate community events, and somehow still finds time to run California Kids Club, an Instagram-based guide to local family-friendly activities.
“It started when I was bored on maternity leave and looking for things to do with my son,” she says.
Now she hosts pop-ups, festivals, and meet-ups that bring hundreds of families together, from Culver City to San Diego.
Gabe, meanwhile, is thriving in his own geeky dream job at Kernel, a Culver City-based startup that makes brain-scanning helmets.
“It looks like a futuristic motorcycle helmet, but it measures brain activity,” he explains, lighting up about the company’s mission. “We’re working on applications for depression and cognitive impairment, trying to make treatment more effective and diagnosis faster. As I’ve gotten older, I wanted to work somewhere meaningful and this company just checks all the boxes.”
Their second child, Edison, was born during the height of the pandemic in 2021.
“We picked his name because we liked the science and technology tiein,” says Ellyn. “We like a name with a story.”
COVID brought its share of challenges, including turning a parking lot into Kinzie’s favorite playground and teaching her to ride a bike with nowhere else to go. But for the Lerners, even lockdown was a chance to lean into their make-the-best-of-it lifestyle.
Now free to move about the city, they treat every weekend in Los Angeles like a giant playground.
“I think we’ve been to over 100 different parks and playgrounds,” Gabe says. “Every weekend is like a mini vacation.”
They stack local outings with new food spots and activities, making sure no two Saturdays are alike.
“We don’t sit still,” Ellyn says. “If you’re looking for us at home on a weekend, good luck.”
While many local families spend weekends shuffling between sports practices, the Lerners prefer adventures. They do karate at the Westchester Family YMCA, take rock-
climbing classes at Sender One, and plan spontaneous trips to places like Death Valley, Sequoia, and Las Vegas. Their annual Cancun trip, with both sets of grandparents, is a cherished tradition, complete with a yearly group photo that’s becoming a family time capsule.
These days, Playa Vista feels like home.
“We live across the street from the farmers’ market, and my Kids Club hosts the Kids’ Corner there monthly,” Ellyn says. “We see people we know every Saturday. That kind of connection matters.”
Gabe agrees, “You just bump into people here. It’s got that community feel that’s hard to find in L.A.”
As they enjoy their lives far from their snowy roots, the Lerners are proof that sometimes, the best things in life happen when the first date doesn’t go as planned.
“She rejected me halfway through,” Gabe laughs. “And now she’s stuck with me.”
To learn more about Ellyn’s California Kids Club and some great ideas for places to visit this summer, follow her on Instagram at @californiakidsclub or on her website at californiakidsclub.com.
How long has Playa Vista been your hometown?
We moved here in January 2024.
What does the perfect day in Playa Vista look like to you?
For our family, a perfect Saturday in Playa Vista means a packed day of awesome activities! We start at the Farmers’ Market, where we always run into familiar faces and like to try new vendors. Then, we hit up the community pool, followed by heading to The Lawn Rope Playground to monkey around. Next, the kids are off to test new climbs at Sender One, and we round off our full day with a family dinner at Urban Plates
Since you’ve made Playa Vista your home, what is the biggest change you have seen in the community?
I’d say the biggest change I’ve noticed is that The Runway is really expanding with new businesses popping up, which is bringing a lot of fresh energy to the community. I’m also so excited about the summer lineup of events. It’ll be an amazing time spent with family and friends!
There are so many great people and businesses in this community; is there anyone you would like to give a special shout-out to?
I’ve got to give a big shout-out to my friends Krystal Mamaril and Tiffany Phillips—we jokingly call ourselves the “Tres Amigas”! We’re on the booster club for Playa Vista Elementary School together, our kids are best friends, and we’re always teaming up to plan school and community events. Whether it’s a fundraiser, a school-wide end-of-year party, or just showing up to support each other, we love finding ways to help our community thrive. It’s way more fun when you’re doing it with your friends!
Airport Marina Counseling Service’s (AMCS) 21st Annual Spring into Well-Being Celebration at the Renaissance Los Angeles Airport Hotel was another inspiring evening for the nonprofit and attendees, which raised more than $350,000 for mental health!
The May 22 fundraising dinner honored the important contributions of Sylvia Wilson, AMCS’ 2025 Community Builder; and Janie Guthrie-Skjervem and Mark Skjervem, the 2025 Champions of Mental Health.
Throughout the evening, speakers and emcee Fritz Coleman took time to celebrate the clinic’s ongoing efforts to provide affordable, community-based mental health services and to support the training of more than 60 mental health therapists each year. From its opening in 1962 to today, AMCS has continued to grow and expand its programs and services, which now include individual, family, couples and group therapy, as well as a LGBT+ Center. Today, the clinic, located on La Tijera in Westchester, serves hundreds of individuals, all on a sliding-scale basis.
Pictured:
1. AMCS President/CEO Eden Garcia-Balis addresses the crowd.
2. Honoree Sylvia Wilson (center) poses with her husband Allen and friend Katrina Barr.
3. Drollinger Properties President Karen Dial raises her paddle for a good cause.
4. Event sponsor Jane St. John and Flowers by Felicia owner Felicia St. Denis enjoy a moment in the photo booth with friends.
5. Members of the Westchester Rotary and Westchester Family YMCA, make a pledge to support AMCS, while sitting at honoree Sylvia’s table.
6. AMCS’s Dr. Mimi Hoang (right) has fun in the photo booth with her wife, Wendy Lee.
7. Champions of Mental Health honorees, Janie Guthrie-Skjervem and Mark Skjervem stop for a photo op.
8. Brit Mark and Matt Rowe walk the red carpet.
9. Attendees show their support for AMCS.
10. Chamber representatives and members, including Board Chair Maria Canchola and Honorary Mayor Luanne Casillas, toast to the evening’s festivities.
