In His Blood Artful application from second-generation shaper and glasser Jon Mangiagli
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FEBRUARY/MARCH 2019
30 DATEBOOK South Bay calendar
72 ENTREPRENEURS PetalFox
36 STYLE FILE Earthenware vessels
74 WEEKENDER Interior motives in Vegas
38 FILM Chris Moseley
76 CRAFT Kris Kobzina
50 Q&A Salam Darwaza
92 COMMUNITY Orhan Taner
54 PALATE Sosta Cucina
100 SEEN Who’s who around town
56 MEDIA Creative pages
107 THE BUBBLE
64 PALATE Latte art
154 LAST WORD From lens to canvas
92 54 72
also... 46 BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT Guzman Law Group 65 SOCIAL NETWORK Nicola Lowrey 66 TERRANEA AT 10 Solviva 88 SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT Marymount California University 112 PROFILES Real Estate & Mortgage 136 REAL ESTATE Spectacular local listings 138 ON THE MARKET Toll Brothers
COVER Jon Mangiagli Photographed by Jeff Berting
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2019
features 32 GOOD VIBRATIONS Artist Drica Lobo grows her collector base through high frequencies, colorful waves and multilayered moons. 40 THE FACTORY California’s iconic surf culture shakes hands with the South Bay’s evolving art scene at Jon Mangiagli’s surf factory in Hermosa Beach. 58 SHOCK VALUE Gallery cofounders Laura Schuler and Mike Collins share a common mission: to draw inspired crowds from both inside and outside the South Bay to Hermosa Beach’s thriving industrial arts district. 80 EVERY LITTLE STEP As America’s interest in Irish dance continues to grow, World Champion and Riverdance lead Tara Barry-Phelan brings both her talent and training to Manhattan Beach. 94 ART MEETS EAST A journey through Japan’s breathtaking Setouchi region uncovers a not-to-be-missed triennial contemporary art festival and a variety of striking art installations.
40 58
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@ O U R SO U T H BAY
editor’s letter
Attentive Audience As a creative type, I get a kick out of featuring local artists in our pages … the painters, the performers and all in between. But if you had asked me a decade ago if the South Bay possessed the collective energy of artistic destinations like Venice or Downtown L.A., I might have cocked an eyebrow or two. That perception, happily, has changed. The last 10 years have been a boon for the South Bay arts scene. El Segundo began to carve itself out as an enclave for artists and art events, opening the El Segundo Museum of Art (ESMoA) and launching the annual Art Walk in the summer. At the latter, attendees get up close and personal with local galleries, studios, design shops and more. The Manhattan Beach Art Center Gallery consistently features new work from exciting artists, and the city continues to introduce sculptures and public works to the landscape. As you’ll read in our feature on the new Manhattan Beach Cultural Arts Commissioner Orhan Taner, there’s even talk of a museum coming to the city. Next door in Hermosa, the Cypress Avenue district draws crowds both from within the Beach Cities but also from Greater Los Angeles. These galleries host regular events and openings showcasing some of the area’s best artists. The murals across town also highlight Hermosa’s arts legacy, like punk music and jazz at the Lighthouse. The Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center welcomes the Los Angeles Ballet, the Distinguished Speaker series and a number of world-class performances year round. And both the Palos Verdes Art Center and Palos Verdes Performing Arts continue to flourish under strong leadership and a progressive vision. While I would always encourage readers to get out of “the bubble” and explore arts throughout SoCal and beyond, it’s a dream to recognize the South Bay as its own thriving arts scene. We hope you’ll take full advantage of all the amazing exhibits and performances happening right next door.
DARREN ELMS
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contributors
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Kat Monk PHOTOGRAPHER “Shock Value” Kat is a Manhattan Beach native who has been photographing children and families in the South Bay professionally since 1995. She has a 1,500-square-foot studio space that includes a garden. If Kat is not behind a camera, she can probably be found watching one of her four kids play sports or music.
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Monica Orozco PHOTOGRAPHER “Good Vibrations” Filled with passion, Monica’s known for capturing quirky, dark, sexy images, especially those taken in her hometown of Los Angeles. Her work has been shown around the world, including New York, London and Berlin, and has been published online and in numerous magazines including Anthem, Spin, TimeOut London, Interview, Swindle, Whitehot, Los Angeles Times, NBC, KPCC, JPG, ARTINFO and ForYourArt. demonicaphoto.com
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“The Factory” Sara is an internationally acclaimed multimedia artist, curator and writer. With a BA in sociology and MSc in urban studies from University of London, Sara enjoys exploring the hidden gems of cities around the globe. She is also a founder and on-camera host of her immersive live talk show that streams from art galleries, festivals and art parties in Los Angeles and beyond called Eye Dream TV. Follow her @eyedreamtv.
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datebook
Your Best Smile Awaits EDUCATION EXPERIENCE ARTISTRY Summer L. Blake, DDS, MS
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feb/ mar THE BIG PICTURE
ShockBoxx’s Mike Collins shares his vision for the vibrant Hermosa Beach art scene. More on page 58.
datebook
Have a Ball
February 3 41st Annual Super Bowl Sunday 10k/5k
6 a.m., Seaside Lagoon in Redondo Beach redondo10k.com
28 – May 18 Experience 39: EAT
El Segundo Museum of Art esmoa.org
March 1 Designs for Dining
10 a.m., St. Francis Episcopal Church stfrancispalosverdes.org
8
Cinderella February 5– March 10
Water and Wood
Following the dazzling smash hit The Red Shoes in 2017, New Adventures returns to the Ahmanson with one of their most beloved dance theatre productions. Matthew Bourne’s Cinderella, performed to Prokofiev’s magnificent score, will transport audiences to the heart of war-torn London for a thrilling and timeless story of the power of love. Ahmanson Theatre. centertheatregroup.org
February 9–16
The South Bay Artist Collective presents the third annual art exhibition featuring new works from some of their best local artists. Browse paintings, pottery, photography, projected imagery and much more. Resin Gallery in Hermosa Beach. hbartistcollective.org
Walk With Sally’s Friendship Bowl
The 12th annual event invites costumed teams to battle it out on the lanes in an important fundraiser for the local mentorship program. Noon to 4 p.m., Palos Verdes Bowl. walkwithsally.org
March 9
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Go Red For Women Wellness Retreat and Executive Luncheon westdrift Manhattan Beach lagored.heart.org
16 St. Patrick’s Day Parade
11 a.m., Downtown Hermosa Beach hbchamber.net
18 25th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Golf Tournament Benefiting South Bay Police and Fire Memorial Foundation, Los Verdes Country Club sbpoliceandfire.com
23 AniFest 2019 Anime Conference 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Torrance Cultural Arts Center anifest.org
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Good Vibrations Hermosa Beach artist Drica Lobo grows her collector base through high frequencies, colorful waves and multilayered moons. WRITTEN BY SARA DEBEVEC PHOTOGRAPHED BY MONICA OROZCO
D
rica Lobo started her career as journalist in São Paulo and moved to the U.S. from Brazil in 2003. Little did she know this trip was going to inspire her to take new avenues through colorful oceans and landscapes of infinite proportions. She traveled both the East and West coasts before she finally settled in Hermosa Beach in 2007. Drica’s fascination for art began when she was a little girl, but it wasn’t until she moved to the South Bay that her art took a whole new turn. She became a full-time artist. As the South Bay artist community grew, so did she. One can say she was in the right place at the right time. Drica’s art is vibrant, happy and colorful, with unique brushstrokes emanating the positive vibrations that the artist herself stands for. We start our conversation in her studio on Hermosa Avenue and naturally make our way down to the beach—the place that inspires her creativity. “I want to paint what we are familiar with in a different way,” explains Drica, whose favorite color is 2 Green. Her unique paintings incorporate gradient techniques created by carefully mixing acrylic colors directly on canvas. It started with the sky, but slowly the gradients took over the entire canvas.
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“I want to paint what we are familiar with in a different way.�
She draws inspiration from the moon because she is fascinated with it and has been obsessed with it ever since she was a little girl. The moon holds a unique presence in a lot of her paintings, and it comes alive through her textures. “I think textures come from my longtime experience with oils,” she says. “I wanted to bring oils to the acrylic. I use it to bring the viewer closer to their subject. I just love incorporating all these different colors into textures—the golds and the silvers especially, since they slightly change in the light.” For Drica, everything in life is connected to how we experience the sun’s energy. When she talks to me about the California sunsets, she says that she can literally hear the vibrant colors that make them up. What makes her paintings so captivating and different is the fact that she paints frequencies. “I believe everything is made up of frequencies, and that is exactly why my waves come out the way they do.” She smiles and says, “Everything is frequency, and you want to keep frequencies high!” Drica wants people to look at her art and experience that “frequency on a higher level and the joy we have for life … or even just sitting at the beach and enjoying special moments.” Growing up in Brazil, Drica enjoyed surfing—and that is reflected in her paintings. “I really like to switch the perspective, focusing on that surfer vision instead of painting the water from the beach,” she says. “I like to paint the beach looking out from the water.” She recalls how the water itself—and the connection she had with it then—made her feel like a giant. That is exactly how I feel when I look at some of her paintings: majestic. I also feel that Drica not only brings out the surfer’s perspective but also the perspective of the environment itself. Her solo show There is No Planet B at Resin Gallery in October last year really captured the essence of environmental consciousness. She created eight installations using recycled objects such as paintbrushes, art cleaning rags and even dried pieces of paint from her mixing tray. As part of the exhibition she also created hanging fluorescent acrylic trash filters, so the audience could look at each one of her beach paintings through the lens of pollution. “I wanted to give people a choice: Do you want to see the work with trash in it, or do you just want to keep seeing the beauty?” says Drica, whose father used to own a recycling company in Brazil. Drica says being an artist is truly all about your level of commitment and how much time you are willing to give yourself to be who you want to be. “I love being part of this community and the South Bay arts scene, and I think it’s going to grow more and more and really become an international art platform.” She currently lives in Hermosa Beach, and her work is included in public and private collections around the world including Brazil, the United States, Singapore and China. She is also a member of Hermosa Beach Artist Collective and Foundation of Local Arts in California. In 2019 she hopes to show her work in Japan, since there is a large community of people there who love the style she paints in. Hawaii also has amazing artists whom she connects to, and she is interested in showing more of her work in her home country of Brazil. She is excited to take her South Bay views worldwide because, she says, “California is the place everyone wants to be.” Drica’s paintings truly capture that higher frequency we tap into living on this side of the world. ■
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2019 | SOUTHBAY
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A Cinematographer is Born
From Super 8 to shooting Lady Gaga, Chris Moseley’s rise to the top was a cinematic adventure. WRITTEN & PHOTOGRAPHED BY KAT MONK
Not many people have an opportunity to be on stage gazing out at 75,000 screaming fans—especially if you are not in the top echelon of incredibly famous bands. Hermosa resident Chris Moseley, a movie industry cinematographer, got this opportunity when he filmed Lady Gaga performing with Bradley Cooper for the Oscar-nominated A Star is Born at Stagecoach. Chris came from a family that dabbled in the business of Hollywood and got his first experiences acting in a few commercials when he was young. Chris’ dad, Wayne Mallory, was a bit actor in television shows such as Twilight Zone and Sea Hunt (shot locally at Marineland, now Terranea Resort), and his great uncle, Guy Madison, was a famous actor in Western films and best known for the television series The Adventures of Wild Bill Hickok. After struggling at California State University Northridge (CSUN), Chris searched his college catalog for what he deemed an “easy A” and stumbled upon a Super 8 camera class. Unbeknownst to Chris at the time, this class would be a defining moment in his life and change his entire life trajectory. Separated into groups to do a class film project, Chris volunteered to operate the camera—even though he had no idea what he was doing. A cameraman was born, and he soon switched his major and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in radio, television and film. After CSUN, Chris heard about a short film that the American Film Institute was working on and joined the crew as an assistant cameraman. This was the first real movie Chris participated on, and low and behold, the film got nominated for an Academy Award. There was no looking back now. Chris worked his way up the ranks over the years, including a stint at the 20th Century Fox loading room, instrumental in getting him into the highly coveted International Photographer’s Guild. The union guarantees you work for life, placing you on a list of
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experienced workers approved for work on union projects. As a union member he started off as a focus puller, then a first assistant, then an operating assistant before becoming the
You do a lot of stinkers over the years, and you do a lot of good ones … and you do some that are nominated for Academy Awards, but that doesn’t always mean that is the best experience of the movie you have worked on. A Star is Born is one of those special rare movies where it was super-great to work on, super-artistic, challenging and also a great movie! It is one where we knew it was going to be really good when we were doing it.”
director of photography for the second unit crew. The second unit often films simultaneously with the first unit and is tasked with filming shots or sequences of production, allowing the production to be completed faster. He has worked on too many films to mention them all, but a few notable ones include Titanic, Dreamgirls, Blue Crush and
Wonder Woman. Going to work every day in the movie biz can have some perks. As an avid surfer, Chris enjoys when a movie is filmed in an exotic location such as the Bahamas or Hawaii. Even though he’s often working excruciatingly long days, he may get some time in paradise to surf. Another awesome perk: meeting celebrities and getting to hear them sing on set, as he did with Lady Gaga and Jennifer Hudson. He recalls during the filming of Dreamgirls: “When Jennifer Hudson started she didn’t know anything about acting, and we were trying to teach her how to hit marks and where to go. During some of Jennifer’s performances, we were cringing—not knowing if it was going to fly, but she learned as we went along. And to her credit, she started to figure it out and won an Academy Award. When she sang, it was just incredible.” Filming can also be grueling, like shooting Titanic at night in Mexico in a water tank for hours on end. That said, Chris says it is all worth it when he sees the finished product. You know you have made it when your family and friends see your name when the credits roll after a movie. Or when someone comes up to you and tell you that the movie you worked on changed their life. Having worked on so many films over the last few decades, A Star is Born stood out as the most memorable film for Chris to date. Filming Lady Gaga on stage during Stagecoach felt like his “15 minutes of fame moment”—when he just wanted to drop the camera and enjoy the experience. “You do a lot of stinkers over the years, and you do a lot of good ones … and you do some that are nominated for Academy Awards, but that doesn’t always mean that is the best experience of the movie you have worked on,” Chris shares. “A Star is Born is one of those special rare movies where it was super-great to work on, super-artistic, challenging and also a great movie! It is one where we knew it was going to be really good when we were doing it.” ■
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2019 | SOUTHBAY
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The Factory California’s iconic surf culture shakes hands with the South Bay’s evolving art scene at Jon Mangiagli’s surf factory in Hermosa Beach. WRITTEN BY SARA DEBEVEC PHOTOGRAPHED BY JEFF BERTING
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ne evening in late fall when I was doing my gallery rounds through Hermosa Beach’s industrial arts district, I stumbled upon what I thought was yet another low-key underground art gallery on Cypress Avenue. Right out front, projected onto the white building, was an old ‘60s surf movie. Laughter and music filled the air, someone passed me a beer and there at the door was a beautiful vintage red neon sign that read “Cypress Surf Shop.” I soon discovered that I was in fact at a factory surf shop and showroom for Mangiagli Manufacturing—one of the longest standing surf factories in the South Bay. It has been in operation for more than 50 years and to this day is a family-run business. I didn’t quite know what to make of it. All I knew was that I wanted to go inside and have someone give me a tour. As the ‘60s rock ‘n’ roll tunes played through an old-school gramophone, owner Jon Mangiagli walked me through a labyrinth of original, artistically crafted surfboards. Here was a place that at its peak in the ‘70s generated about 100 boards per week—one of the highest volumes of surf-making in the history of California. With photographs of surfers from LeRoy Grannis’ personal collection covering the walls and originally crafted interior design by California-based artist Brian Bent, Mangiagli Manufacturing is more like a museum than a factory. They even have local bands playing here from time to time. This is a place where the old meets the new—where the industrial rock ‘n’ roll surf culture shakes hands with the contemporary and aspiring art world of the South Bay. Jon Mangiagli took over the family business just over a year ago from his father, the legendary Steve Mangiagli, who according to the community was one of the best glassers in the world. There is even a small section in the corner where Steve used to keep his toolbox that is still covered in fading family photos, with young Jon looking cheerful next to his brother and sister. Steve, who started off as a laminator for what used to be Rick Surfboards, ended up buying the manufacturing facility in
1976—creating Mangiagli Manufacturing and making boards for various companies including Rick Surfboards, Kanoa Surf and Natural Progression. In 1980, together with Phil Becker and Dave Hollander, Steve opened Becker Surfboards on Pier Avenue. Today Mangiagli Manufaturing operates as a full-service contract facility, laminating and repairing surfboards for a number of brands. Now with Joe at the helm, I wanted to know about the Mangiagli craft of today, especially as the Cypress neighborhood welcomes new art galleries and other creative types. Jon, what’s the secret to your business and surfboards? Most of the employees who work here have worked here longer than I have been alive, which is a very humbling thing. The secret is just to not be stagnant—to not get stuck doing the same thing over and over again. The custom boards we make for these guys—it’s almost the same every time but not quite. It keeps it kind of lively. And I like surfing a lot, so that helps. What are the steps to making a surfboard? How long does it take to make one? If you were to start shaving a board and did the whole thing yourself, you would probably do it in two days. We have it broken up here, so one guy will shape it, another guy will glass it and the next guy will polish it. Usually if somebody orders a board, we’ll have it done within a week or two. It’s the same process the same way the boards were made forever, but each one is a little bit different. We have a bunch of templates, and all the templates are made of wood. So you can take one and put it on the board and trace and measure it, and that’s just an outline of the board. It’s like a sculpture. How would you describe a Mangiagli surfboard? They are a combination of what’s been done before and something different and new. I like the aesthetic of older boards, but at the same time I don’t just want to copy that. I want to make something new and use some older stuff that I can get inspired by.
You run a surfboard factory. What’s that like? My dad and I have been doing this for a long time together, and then one day he was just like, “All right … it’s yours now!” It’s a huge responsibility, and I feel incredibly lucky. It can be stressful—all the stuff that I’m not as versed in—like the permitting and the taxes and all that stuff. Having to learn all that now on top of running a business is a lot, but it’s good. When I walked into your shop for the first time, you had an event here and were projecting movies onto the building. What did you show? The Innermost Limits of Pure Fun by George Greenough was one movie, and I think the other one was The Californians by Jamie Budge. They’re both surf movies from the ‘60s. It was fun to throw that party. A lot of people come here to get a new board, but since we have a glass shop next door, a lot of people also come here to get their boards repaired. We have people come in here to hang out and come here to look at the boards. We have people coming through who’ve never surfed before who say, “I had no idea this was a surfboard factory!” Growing up and surfing here, you know a lot of people who are in that position. You see them a lot. You talk to them—like all my dad’s friends. There is a close, tight-knit surfing community out here. Do you have any events coming up? Some friends who I grew up with are in a band called Allah Las. They run Reverberation Radio, and they are also DJs and play records. One of them mentioned a little surf party. So we’re hoping to figure something out soon. That’ll be fun. Do you partner up with any of the local surf organizations? Yes. There is a surf club called South Bay Boardriders, and they put on three or four contests every year. I judge all of those contests. I’ll be down there tomorrow first thing in the morning. It’ll be right by El Porto parking lot. Everyone who judges surfs and knows what a good wave is (or
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has a similar idea). The contest is made around a surf community out here, and it’s going to be my third year now being one of the judges. I used to do a lot of contests growing up, but I don’t surf them anymore. It’s fun to judge though. What was this area like in the '70s? Any interesting stories to share? This area is all industrial. There were a couple guys that started surfboard manufacturing in Southern California here on this block, and they all had different shops. Like that whole building that goes from Cypress to Valley—that was a surfboard factory, and the architecture place across the street—that was my dad’s shop warehouse. Next door to us we have plumbers, cabinet-makers, painters, a recording studio, but the surfboard factory has been here forever and we just built the surf shop two years ago. When my dad first started working here, there wasn’t anything else around here. This place right here [points to the other side of the street] used to be this crazy house where a bunch of hippies used to live. There was a balcony with a cage, and inside this cage was a bunch of monkeys they had as pets. They’d throw a bunch of parties and get goofy. I feel like Hermosa in the ‘60s and ‘70s was a much different place. Kind of like what Venice used to be. There wasn’t very much money, and everyone that used to live here was poor and did a bunch of funny stuff. It’s one of those things that make you sad that it isn’t that way anymore, but at the same time you can’t stop the ball rolling. Speaking of, what are your plans for the future? The one thing I want to keep going is the history here with the surfboards. There are not a lot of places in Hermosa that have stuck around for so long, and that makes this place so interesting. It has a cool history, especially in the surf world. I feel like a lot of people don’t know about the factory and don’t know how long it’s been here and how many boards have come out from here. It’s always fun having people come through here saying things like, “Wow I’ve lived around the corner for 20 years. I had no idea this place was here.” That stuff is kind of cool. I just want to keep it going. Keep making boards and be part of that history and the next chapter of it. ■
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“I like the aesthetic of older boards, but at the same time I don’t just want to copy that. I want to make something new and use some older stuff that I can get inspired by.”
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BUSINESS S P OT L I G H T
THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT! Local firm Guzman Law Group ushers visionary Broadway musical RENT into a new season of love by fans around the globe. WRITTEN BY LAURA L. WATTS | PHOTOGRAPHED BY MARISA GUZMÁN-ALOIA
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nder the leadership of founder Denise M. Guzman, Guzman Law Group of Manhattan Beach has been advocating for the Los Angeles community—and clients from the West Coast to the East Coast—for more than 30 years. In addition to handling numerous business law matters, with its close proximity to Hollywood it comes as no surprise that Guzman Law Group also focuses on entertainment law—an area that attorney Carol T. Contes has practiced her entire career. “The practice of entertainment law has given me the opportunity to work with creative people in a dynamic, worldwide business,” says Carol, who for the past 10 years has been the entertainment counsel for the Guzman Law. “I also enjoy being of service to people and helping them with their business transactions. Let’s tell the truth— show business is fun!” One of the firm’s long-standing clients is the estate of Jonathan Larson—the composer of RENT, a critically acclaimed rock musical that won a Pulitzer Prize and four Tony Awards and ran on Broadway for 12 years—and the Larson family. Sadly Jonathan passed away unexpectedly the night before the show’s off-Broadway premiere in 1996, at the age of 35. After the show’s years on Broadway, there were several national tours, numerous foreign
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ON THE MARKET
Left to right: Denise M. Guzman, Business, Estate Planning & Trust Attorney Carol T. Contes, Entertainment, Copyright & Trademark AttorneyÂ
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productions and it was adapted into a movie in 2005. In January this year Fox aired a live television production of RENT—an arrangement brokered by the Larson estate’s agency, Paradigm, and Guzman Law Group. “The most enjoyable part of working with the Larson estate has been seeing Jonathan’s work produced for audiences around the world and adapted for all media,” says Carol. “It’s so wonderful to see how much he is part of our culture.” Jonathan’s family members, who run his estate, concur. “We are absolutely thrilled to be continuing Jonathan’s legacy and the still-relevant themes of the show in this way,” share Julie Larson, who is a producer and Jonathan’s sister, and Allan Larson, his father. Denise Guzman was first introduced to Julie through family members who worked with her. After Jonathan’s death, when Julie needed to immediately prepare a trust and estate plans, she remembered a simple favor Denise had done for her and turned to Guzman Law Group to represent the rights of her brother’s estate and the musical RENT. Not long after, Denise also began to represent Julie’s parents, Al and Nan Larson. Over the course of 20+ years, the firm has handled the family’s entertainment
and business transactions—from negotiating music publishing rights to protecting the estate’s trademark and copyright. The Guzman Law team has worked closely with Paradigm and the Larson family to guide the play’s pursuits throughout the world and to protect the valuable intellectual property of the estate for future generations. “Doing a simple favor grew into this meaningful experience,” says Denise. “Working with the Larson family has been one of the highlights of my career. I have gotten to be a part of the New York theatre world— something that, as a Los Angeles lawyer, I would never have been able to do.” She even attended opening night of RENT in Milan, Italy in 2000. In 2008 Denise played an integral role in transferring the Jonathan Larson Performing Arts Foundation to the American Theatre Wing. “We were very fortunate to have found a home in the American Theatre Wing,” she says, “and they have carried on the tradition and the administration of the Jonathan Larson Grants.” These grants, given annually to honor emerging composers, lyricists and book writers, help continue Jonathan’s love of musical theatre by supporting and
“WORKING WITH THE LARSON FAMILY HAS BEEN ONE OF THE HIGHLIGHTS OF MY CAREER.” safeguarding the recipients’ artistic careers. The American Theatre Wing awards the Larson Grants to artists to recognize and showcase their work with no strings attached—except to put it to the best use possible to help further the artists’ creative endeavors. The four 2018 grants of $10,000 each included additional support in the form of residencies, concerts and recording grants, totaling more than $48,000. It was recently announced that another of Jonathan’s plays, Tick, Tick… Boom!, will be adapted for film by the acclaimed writer/ actor/director Lin-Manuel Miranda in association with Imagine Entertainment’s Ron Howard and Brian Grazer. Julie Larson will be executive producer. The sky is the limit for the future of RENT and other works of Jonathan Larson, as well as the grants awarded in his name. As his work continues to touch lives around the world, the team of Guzman Law Group will continue to support his family and his vision, while the message of RENT continues to be relevant and find an audience with a new generation of fans.
GUZMAN LAW GROUP 1230 ROSECRANS AVENUE, SUITE 650 MANHATTAN BEACH 310-321-6640 GUZMANLG.COM
Far left: Denise Guzman with Allan Larson, Jonathan’s father. Near left, top: 2018 Jonathan Larson Grant recipients performing at the grants presentation. Near left, bottom: RENT 10-year anniversary performance after party.
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310-962-4597 312 Rosecrans Avenue Manhattan Beach www.TheRipeChoice.net
Bridge Between Worlds
Born to Palestinian refugees, producer Salam Darwaza feels at home in Manhattan Beach after being raised in Saudi Arabia. A born storyteller, Salam has built a career bridging the cultural gap that exists between the Western and Middle Eastern worlds. INTERVIEWED & PHOTOGRAPHED BY KAT MONK
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Growing up we had limited access to television and films. I loved being entertained and seeing the world through a different lens. I knew at that moment I wanted to be a storyteller and slowly learned the art of telling stories with pictures. It has been said that you have one foot in the Arab world and one foot in the West. Can you share with us what that looks like? I was born and raised in Saudi Arabia, where my father worked for Aramco—the Arabian American oil company. I was a Palestinian girl from a Muslim household, growing up alongside the children of American oil workers. We lived on Christmas Tree Circle, woke up for 7 a.m. Arabic classes, spent weekends at the pool for swim meets, wore veils when we left to go shopping outside the compound and camped in the Rub’al Khali desert as a Girl Scout. A clash of cultures is an understatement, but it was just normal for me. Now as an adult, going between Arab culture and the Western world may seem extreme, but it’s all I’ve really ever known. Violence seems prevalent these days everywhere. Do you ever fear for your safety when you are in the Middle East? No, I don’t fear for my safety in the places I’ve recently been to in the Middle East, like Jordan and the UAE. Those countries are extremely safe with very little crime. It helps that I have family and friends living there and that I know the culture. I encourage all my friends to travel to Jordan and explore Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea. Those are some of my favorite places in the world— places where I feel most at peace. When did you develop your passion for film and storytelling? We came to visit the States when I was in eighth grade, and our first stop was New York City. I was in awe of the city but was absolutely mesmerized by American television. Instead of exploring the city, we were glued to the TV those first few days.
Explain to us your role as a producer. The hardest job to define is that of the producer. One day it can be desperately digging for financing for the film; the next day it can be getting permission from government officials to get your crew into an impossible location. But for me, the most important part of producing comes before all of that. I need to feel passionate about the subject matter. I need to connect to it personally. If I have that, it is my compass in every decision I make thereafter. I’ve produced everything from a 60-second commercial in Milan, an hour-long live event show in Abu Dhabi, to a 75-minute documentary film in Za’atari refugee camp. I’ve learned how to tell a story in 30 seconds or an hour, pre-recorded or live, for an American audience or a global audience. Your film Salam Neighbor came out in 2015. Tell us about the film and how our readers can watch it? Our documentary film is the story of two Americans who head to the edge of war, just seven miles from the Syrian border, to live among 85,000 refugees in Jordan’s Za’atari camp. As the daughter of Palestinian refugees and someone who was raised in host countries, my life experience was an inspiration point for the film, allowing me to lend a voice of Arab authenticity and speak from a personal perspective on the current refugee crisis. Our goal for this film was to humanize the refugee crisis, enabling viewers here in the U.S. to see it in a different light. The film was initially available on Netflix but is currently available on iTunes and Amazon. Your films are attempting to bridge the cultural gap. Can you explain how you are
trying to achieve this goal, especially since there are so many negative stereotypes depicted in the media? While there may be a cultural gap between the West and the Middle East, there is no humanity gap. We are the same at our core. On the screen you can look at other people’s lives ... they suffer like you, they smile and cry and celebrate and love just like you. A cultural gap is simply a fear of the unknown. By making people accessible— bringing them into our living room—you slowly begin to remove the unknown. When you bring people together, dim the lights and tell them a story they can relate to, show them there are people that may seem totally different but are like you in so many ways, you can open their minds and hearts to a different world. You recently got back from working in Abu Dhabi, right? I was working with Done+Dusted in Abu Dhabi to produce the UAE’s official 47th National Day live show celebration. It was a fantastic experience and allowed me an opportunity to return to the Middle East to share the story of Sheikh Zayed, the country’s founder, who despite his simple Bedouin beginnings was a visionary and progressive man. Producing a live show was unlike any other experience. You quickly realize that when you get to work with the best crew in the world, however complicated things may get, nothing is ever impossible. Whether it’s ensuring the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra play live seamlessly alongside 37 Arab musicians, figuring out how to get 40 camels to cross a massive stage in under four minutes, to timing an F-16 flyover within a seven-second window … it can all happen. Tell us about your involvement with the Muslim Public Affairs Council and what MPAC is trying to achieve. I’m a member of MPAC’s Hollywood Bureau’s Advisory Committee. Our role is to advise
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MPAC on ways to engage and partner with the entertainment industry to change the negative stereotypes of Muslims in the media. I believe in MPAC’s work and their progressive and inclusive mission. Given the challenges of the past few years, they have done so much to improve the depiction of Muslims in film and TV.
community, which can be difficult to find in a big city. As someone who has grown up as the child of refugees and lived in so many different places, I’ve always struggled to feel at home. But as soon as I came to Manhattan Beach, I knew I would never want to leave and had finally found a place I could call home. I simply love it here.
What brought you to Manhattan Beach? Ironically, the reason I love Manhattan Beach so much is because it reminds me of the neighborhood where I grew up. I am surrounded by beautiful palm trees, live next to a massive sand dune and an oil refinery— just like where I grew up halfway around the world. There’s also a strong sense of
What’s next for you? I’m working on a few different documentary films and collaborating with some brilliant women directors and producers. Nothing inspires me more than telling a story that hasn’t been told and taking on a new adventure. ■
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While there may be a cultural gap between the West and the Middle East, there is no humanity gap. We are the same at our core.”
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El Segundo
Italian Job
Call it the perfect date night or a sojourn to Italy; newcomer Sosta Cucina is quickly becoming Hermosa Beach’s don’t-miss destination. WRITTEN BY JENNIE NUNN
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Don’t be surprised if you have to scour Google Maps or GPS to find Sosta Cucina on Pier Avenue in Hermosa Beach. But according to chef/owner Luca Manderino, the all-white, unassuming façade with no signage is intentional. “I may put something on the door, but no signage,” says Luca of the Venetian-style wine bar and eatery meant to be a true neighborhood find. Luca, who once worked as pilot and owned La Sosta Enoteca restaurant for 11 years until it was demolished in 2016, wanted to stay true to his Italian roots and bring traditional Venetian cuisine to the South Bay. “I was born and raised in Venice, Italy, and grew up in the hospitality industry,” he explains. “My parents owned two restaurants in Venice and a hotel on the Dolomites. From a young age, I would help my mother in the kitchen every day after school. Cooking is what I feel and believe, and it’s what I know. It’s more important to me to maintain the cuisine and the traditional methods that I use.”
The menu—featuring selections such as Gnocchi All’astice, handmade gnocchi with lobster; Risotto Alle Animelle, risotto with sweet breads; Bufala Ed Acciughe, buffalo mozzarella and Sicilian anchovies; and Branzino Al Forno, baked Mediterranean sea bass—was very deliberate. “When I introduce unusual things like that to my guests, they love it because they believe in my cooking. The food is traditional to the cuisine I grew up with and the overall Italian cuisine. At Sosta I’m not inventing anything, but rather I’m making food based on tradition. It is traditional to my cuisine and to Italian cuisine.” One of the standout dishes (and one of Luca’s admitted favorites) is cuttlefish served with polenta. “It’s a great comfort food dish and very delicate, tender and delicious,” he says of the cuttlefish he sources from Japan, Normandy and Venice paired with tomato, parsley, black pepper, olive oil and garlic. “When you first see it, you’re like, ‘What is this?’ And then you take a bite and it’s
amazing. Then it’s slow-cooked on the stove with the lid on for 1½ to two hours. The cuttlefish releases its own ink during this process.” Another major highlight here is the wine list. “While I love wines from all over the world, the menu at Sosta is made up of entirely Italian wines,” he explains. “The wines we curate are meant to be paired with food, as that is the true purpose of Italian wines. You can take a cab or pinot noir and drink it on its own, but with Italian wine it’s more difficult to source one that can be consumed on its own.” Luca outfitted the rustic and romantic, 1,000-square-foot candlelit restaurant with repurposed wood from La Sosta (used for the tables), vintage photography and dining chairs culled from various places including swap meets. “Sosta has a very clean style, and it feels like a home—right down to the mismatched chairs,” he says. “I made everything myself, including the tables, bar, kitchen floor, and
wall between the kitchen and the restaurant. The interior is still a work in progress, and I’ll be making a few changes here and there.” Now Luca, who also lives in Hermosa Beach, and his team are working on a menu with additional traditional dishes and cicchetti, or Venetian tapas, at the wine bar. As for staying put in the South Bay, he’s happy he did. “The clientele is very well-traveled, so they have a knowledgeable understanding of food and enjoy being introduced to new things,” he says. “I love the energy and the people. And I love to cook, of course. People come for the food quality, and I love giving them an experience. I love being in the South Bay, and I feel like it’s the right time to be here on Pier Avenue.” ■
I was born and raised in Venice, Italy, and grew up in the hospitality industry. My parents owned two restaurants in Venice and a hotel on the Dolomites. From a young age, I would help my mother in the kitchen every day after school. Cooking is what I feel and believe, and it’s what I know. It’s more important to me to maintain the cuisine and the traditional methods that I use.”
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Creative Pages
New and noteworthy books from celebrated artists across genres.
LET’S GO (SO WE CAN GET BACK): A MEMOIR OF RECORDING AND DISCORDING WITH WILCO, ETC. BY JEFF TWEEDY Hardcover, 304 pages Penguin Publishing Group Few bands have inspired as much devotion as the Chicago rock band Wilco, and it’s thanks in large part to the band’s singer, songwriter and guiding light: Jeff Tweedy. But while his songs and music have been endlessly discussed and analyzed, Jeff has rarely talked so directly about himself, his life and his artistic process … until now. Honest, funny and disarming, Jeff’s memoir will bring readers inside both his life and his musical process—illuminating his singular genius and sharing his story, voice and perspective for the first time. ALWAYS LOOK ON THE BRIGHT SIDE OF LIFE: A SORTABIOGRAPHY BY ERIC IDLE Hardcover, 304 pages Crown/Archetype We know him best for his unforgettable roles on Monty Python—from Flying Circus to The Meaning of Life. Now Eric Idle reflects on the meaning of his own life in this entertaining memoir that takes us on a remarkable journey from his childhood in an austere boarding school through his successful career in comedy, television, theatre and film. With anecdotes sprinkled throughout involving other close friends and luminaries such as Mick Jagger, Steve Martin, Paul Simon and many more—as well as John Cleese and the Pythons—Eric captures a time of tremendous creative output with equal parts hilarity and heart. Named for the song he wrote for Life of Brian, which has since become the #1 song played at funerals in the U.K., Idle’s book shares the highlights of his life and career with the kind of offbeat humor that has delighted audiences for five decades. THE FLAME: POEMS NOTEBOOKS LYRICS DRAWINGS BY LEONARD COHEN 288 pages, Hardcover Farrar, Straus and Giroux Just weeks before his death in late 2016, Leonard Cohen told The New Yorker that he was ready for the end to come. He just wanted enough time to put his last book in order. Fortunately that time was granted. The Flame is his eloquent farewell—a valedictory collection of lyrics, poems, notebook sketches and self-portraits that maps his
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singular creative journey. As noted in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’s citation, “For six decades, Leonard Cohen revealed his soul to the world through poetry and song—his deep and timeless humanity touching our very core.” In addition to new poems about war, desire, regrets, lamb chops and hummingbirds, and lyrics from his last three albums including the chart-topping “You Want It Darker,” The Flame includes carefully selected excerpts from his voluminous notebooks, which he kept faithfully over the years. Readers will find in these pages the subjects that have always preoccupied Leonard Cohen: the dimensions of love, the secret code of existence and the hope for transcendence in a broken world. ANNIE LEIBOVITZ AT WORK BY ANNIE LEIBOVITZ Hardcover, 256 pages Phaidon Press Annie Leibovitz addresses young photographers and readers interested in what photographers do, but any reader interested in contemporary history will be fascinated by her account of one of the richest bodies of work in the photographic canon. The subjects include photojournalism, studio work, photographing dancers and athletes, working with writers and making the transition from shooting with film to working with digital cameras. Originally published in 2008, this revised and updated edition brings her bestselling book back into print. LED ZEPPELIN BY LED ZEPPELIN Hardcover, 400 pages Reel Art Press This tome is the only official illustrated book produced in full collaboration with the members of the band. Celebrating 50 years since their formation, this definitive volume charts the group’s unparalleled musical career from the very first performance in a tiny club to their performance at London’s O2 Arena, when 20 million fans broke the world record for highest demand for tickets for a single concert. The book features more than 300 photographs—many seen here for the first time—of Jimmy Page, Robert Plant, John Paul Jones and John Bonham from photographers around the world, and photographs from the band members’ personal collections. Accompanying the photographs is rare and unseen artwork from the Led Zeppelin archives and fascinating documents and images from the Atlantic Records vaults.
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Shock Value Laura Schuler and Mike Collins thrive on their differences. Though both are self-taught artists, they arrived on the scene with divergent backgrounds and unique points of view. But as cofounders of ShockBoxx Gallery, they share a common mission: to draw inspired crowds from both inside and outside the South Bay to Hermosa Beach’s thriving industrial arts district. And so far, they’re killing it. WRITTEN BY SARA DEBEVEC PHOTOGRAPHED BY KAT MONK
E
ver since Laura Schuler and Mike Collins began hosting events at their ShockBoxx art gallery in Hermosa’s Cypress Avenue District, a robust audience has been spilling out onto the streets several times a month. Nestled among design studios and surf factories in this industrial patch of Hermosa Beach, the pop-up-style gallery brings together both established and aspiring artists around themes you might not anticipate in the relatively bucolic beach community: addiction, eating disorders, gun control—but also homages to other contemporary artists. Their first show, Break the System, invited local artists to cover their walls in graffiti paint, setting an openly experimental tone for the gallery. Two years on the block and their openings have broken out of the bubble—drawing people from all over the South Bay and Los Angeles with shows fronted by notable artists such as Bob Dob, Brent Broza, Dennis Dugan and Patti Astor. Laura, who left her career in engineering to become a full-time artist, and Mike, who brings his long-standing profession as a therapist to the mix, are both extremely talented and mostly self-taught artists who are not afraid to take risks. When they got the gallery space back in 2017, they felt like they won the lottery. They didn’t know exactly what they were going to do with it, but they knew for sure that the gallery was going to be a space for the community—just like Studio 637 across the street and the historical surf manufacturers that had been fixtures on Cypress Avenue for decades. “We wanted to be a part of that history and be here for other artists to show their work, which I feel we have accomplished,” explains Laura, who admits that ShockBoxx has already exceeded her expectations. Their art too reflects the evolving energies of the Cypress District itself. Laura and Mike both agree that if they were creating art in a studio above Pier Avenue, it wouldn’t have that same edge. Laura, who used to live in Arlington, Virginia, and worked in systems engineering, admits that her colleagues never knew she was artistic. It was only when she moved to Los Angeles that she decided to fully commit to her passion. “People out here know I am an artist, and so whenever they find out I am also an engineer they are shocked. And I say, ‘Actually it is very similar; there is a lot of process, there is a lot of discipline, improvement and changing direction. There’s really a lot of overlap.’”
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Laura implements a lot of her engineering background into her art practice, and there is a beautifully scientific angle to her aesthetic. Among the scattered and frantic explosion of bright colors on canvas, one can experience energy, movement and a system at work. Her authentic mark lies between the spray paint, the texture, the lines and the drip. Her work has recently gotten bigger, and she is more aggressive when it comes to experimentation. She also began using a broader range of colors and exploring different ranges of negative space. “I think the inspiration comes from trying to capture energy on canvas,” she says. “Can you look at something and know that there is some level of energy, some level of movement on the canvas? How did that work?” Mike claims he wasn’t creative until he encountered a sunset—and not just any sunset but the kind that only happens after a fire. It was February 2006, and Malibu was on fire. There was a fire in Palos Verdes, there was a fire in Anaheim, and as the sun was setting the whole world turned orange. Every person in his practice stepped onto the balcony to see this sunset. “The world just stopped to watch this sunset. I was with a client. We sat back down, started doing therapy, and the only thing that was going on inside my head was, ‘You need to paint that.’ And I was like, ‘That’s weird because you don’t paint.’” He bought some acrylics and started painting on cardboard, but every time he tried to paint it was getting worse and worse. Then one day he called his friend Robb Havassy, an accomplished surf artist, who told him, “Don’t paint what you saw. Paint what you felt.” And that’s when it all started. Shortly after, Mike’s paintings took on a life of their own. The blackwashed O’s and X’s and abstract forms filled large canvases that not only made their way onto the walls of his home, his friend’s homes, yoga studios, art galleries and stores around town, but they also found space on the walls of his practice— bridging the gap between art and therapy. “As a psychologist it can get a little heavy sometimes because you just carry around stories that can’t be repeated. For me, art is a way of putting that back out. People imagine that when you paint you are all serene. I am not in any way, shape or form at risk of picking up a paintbrush when I am calm and peaceful. I am painting when I am agitated,” he explains. “Mike’s work is at the back. He is working on 8-by-5-foot canvases. I can’t help but stay
“I think the inspiration comes from trying to capture energy on canvas.”
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a while and look at his work and try to figure out what is going through his mind,” shares Laura. “You’ll see on one side of the room there is a story he is telling through this girl in the pink dress and this canary, and now he’s added in these turtles. He can tell you what all those mean to him, but there is this progression and this narrative that is happening in his work that is very interesting and dream-like.” Although Laura’s work and Mike’s work are very different, they both agree they are sounding boards for each other. “Laura’s process is so different to mine, and I have watched her process grow and evolve,” says Mike. “I have watched her get confused last year just like I did. I have also watched her come out now, and that is Laura 2.0—like she’s there but she’s next-level.” With their own work they have been through a series of gates. They are experimenting and growing, and in terms of physical space the gallery is experiencing that too. “We are just in a line of a lot of people who came here creatively before we did. There is this evolution taking place here that we want to be so respectful and careful about because we are not trying to change Cypress. We are trying to fit in.” ShockBoxx operates a very artist-centric ethos, and their goal is to help collectors and locals bring something original into their homes. Artists love taking part in their shows because they’ll curate a show and then sit back, letting the art speak for itself. Laura and Mike want to ignite a passion for original art in people. “I have walked along The Strand, and there are a handful of houses that I can tell have prints from major companies that sell furniture. They are not bad prints, but they are also not original art. I want there to be … not necessarily hype, but I want there to be this feeling that you can get something that somebody made that there is only one of in the world … and that alone is a story,” says Laura, who compares collecting art to looking at someone’s bookshelf. “If you go to someone’s home you don’t necessarily have to talk to them, but just by looking at their bookshelf you’ll know a lot about them.” Collecting art is all about forming a relationship with the artist and using their art as a means of telling your story. “It’s fun to watch people buy original art—especially from an artist they can meet and connect with in person,” adds Mike. “I have bought art from artists who have shown in our gallery, and it’s just a different experience when you
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“As a psychologist it can get a little heavy sometimes because you just carry around stories that can’t be repeated. For me, art is a way of putting that back out.”
hang that on the wall.” Consequently, in the first part of this year they are putting together their Art Collectors Start Up Show to bring attention to the benefits of buying original art. ShockBoxx enjoyed many popular and well-attended solo and group shows in 2017 and 2018. They have hosted highly engaging installations, multimedia performances and even immersive dining experiences. This year their focus is on building programming around some of the “superstars” who have shown their work at ShockBoxx regularly. The Program consists of eight to 10 artists who are producing work consistently. “We like their vibe and how they show us their ideas, and we want to grow with them,” explains Mike. Some of the artists in The Program, alongside Laura and Mike, are
Brent Broza, Bob Dob, Dennis Dugan, Jack George, Chip Herwegh, Mazzy MacGregor, Theodosia Marchant, Scott Meskill, Emerald Pagdett, Preston M. Smith, Sarah Svetlana and Kymm Swank. “We want to lift them up, and we want to create a community through The Program that shows we are serious about their art. We are hoping our program artists want to leave us,” says Laura. “We want them to be like, ‘Sorry, we’re off to another gallery. We’re off the charts now.’ We want them to do that! In our minds, that would be the best scenario: for them to get so big that they are gone … but always remember where they started.” ■ Check out Laura’s solo show on March 9 and Mike’s solo show on March 23 at ShockBoxx, 636 Cypress Avenue, Hermosa.
TICKETS ON SALE NOW! JOE KYE
Violinist-Looper Kye’s innovative use of digital effects and looping, weaves together diverse textures, catchy melodies, and rich, sweet vocals to create songs that groove, uplift, and empower listeners. ”A single violinist...one mesmerizing symphony” – Sacramento Bee
MARCH 2 @ 8:00 p.m.
Music & Lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda Book by Quiara Alegría Hudes In the Heights tells the universal story of a vibrant community in New York City’s Washington Heights neighborhood. “In the Heights’ unabashed celebration of Latin culture, music, and language is as joyous now as it was in 2007…” –DCMetroTheaterArts
MARCH 15–31
TIM GILL & THE TIM GILL ALL-STARS BAND Charismatic, bigger-than-life crooner Tim Gill fronts the Tim Gill All-Stars with his velvet voice and dry wit, a signature cocktail of classic Rat Packstyle jazz and modern 21st century pop. ”Hard-driving arrangements combined with a raucous and lively fun-filled show...” – AllAboutJazz.com
MARCH 10 @ 2:00 p.m.
L.A. CONTEMPORARY DANCE COMPANY An evening of thoughtprovoking, imaginative, and otherworldly contemporary dance featuring refreshingly unique work by three up-andcoming Los Angeles-based choreographers. ”All dancers were remarkable, in this often humorous piece that required split-second timing.” –Emphasis Dance
MARCH 16 @ 8:00 p.m.
COLLECTIF9 STRING ENSEMBLE
M-PACT VOCAL ENSEMBLE “A Tribute to Motown”
No Time for Chamber Music expands upon the folk melodies and rhythms audiences have come to expect in a collectif9 performance, but integrates an ironic flavor, presenting serious material in playful or sarcastic contexts. ”This, ladies and gentlemen, is where chamber music is going.” –Ottawa Chamberfest MARCH 23 @ 8:00 p.m.
PURCHASE TICKETS:
www.CenterForTheArts.org • 1-800-832-ARTS
M-Pact is respected worldwide as a cutting-edge trailblazer in the realm of vocal music. This LA-based sextet has cultivated a new generation of ears hungry for the fresh, raw power of nature’s “first instrument” –THE HUMAN VOICE. ”One of the best pop-jazz vocal groups in the world.” –San Francisco Chronicle
APRIL 19 @ 8:00 p.m.
El Camino College Center for the Arts: 16007 Crenshaw Boulevard, Torrance, CA 90506 (310) 329-5345 or 1-800-832-ARTS (toll-free)
Love a Latte A combination of taste, technique and Instagram-worthiness adds a new dimension to South Bay coffee culture. PRODUCED, WRITTEN & PHOTOGRAPHED BY KARA MICKELSON
From delicate swans to fluffy 3-D cream cats, jiggly foam pig toppers, logos and Van Gogh, the craft coffee game has never looked better. Even those perfectly composed hearts resting on top of velvety, micro-foamed milk have been aptly coined “a hug in a mug.” The trend of latte art has tapped into something bigger … an understanding that the grab-and-go coffee experience may not fully feed our soul. And while so much focus is on a product that keeps us awake and potentially productive, the underlying sentiment of designer coffee is conversely to slow down, to sip and to savor. Beautifully adorned, artfully crafted lattes provide pleasure and pause before indulging—a reminder to stop and smell the roses, or in the case of latte art, a fern leaf or perhaps a tulip. From artist hubs to swanky communal spaces with a laid-back vibe, these new-wave, indie-style coffee shops are carving out their own signature style to level up the local buzzworthy offerings. Here are some local favorites:
BLUE BUTTERFLY COFFEE CO. Owner Dale is a licensed Q grader. They roast their own coffee and have created a signature blend under the name Smoke Hollow Roasters. SIGNATURE OFFERINGS Butterfly tea latte with a rose, and the Purple Palmer, which uses their blue butterfly pea tea and lemonade for a wonderful floral version of an Arnold Palmer. TWO GUNS ESPRESSO A consistent roast, two-bean espresso, Strauss organic milk or high-quality plant milks, and a robust barista training program make this both a Manhattan Beach and El Segundo favorite. Their cafes have a signature New Zealand style and appeal, which the owners, two Kiwis, refer to as great food, great coffee and great conversation. SIGNATURE OFFERINGS They were the first to offer the flat white in the South Bay and believe that small, high-quality drinks are better for you. KLATCH COFFEE Their award-winning coffees come from a carefully developed, roast-to-order, farm-to-cup, direct trade-buying model. Coffee education program and monthly community offerings focus on brewing and palette development. SIGNATURE OFFERINGS They make most any coffee drink you can think of, plus a tasty crème brûlée and seasonal offerings. THE BOY & THE BEAR Their simple and straightforward focus on product quality and customer experience makes this Redondo spot shine. Of their Colombian coffees, 70% are direct trade, and 30% of their direct traded coffees are “air freight”— meaning from the Colombian farm to your cup in 10 days. SIGNATURE OFFERINGS Exotic Colombian coffee and a wonderful oat milk latte. HI-FI ESPRESSO This Hermosa hub offers a variety of roast levels and flavor profiles from around the world, including beans from Kenya, Costa Rica, Burundi, Mexico and Papua New Guinea. SIGNATURE OFFERINGS Bee’s Knees, a spicy mocha made with Mike’s Hot Honey, vegan chocolate and oat milk, and a French Toast Latte made with organic cinnamon, maple syrup, vanilla syrup and your choice of milk.
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
A HEALTHY INDULGENCE Terranea’s stunning new eatery offers all the pleasures of dining out—with none of the guilt. WRITTEN BY AMBER KLINCK PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE O’DONNELL
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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S
o often we associate health and wellness with omission, employing dietary restrictions that deprive us of a sensorial and well-balanced dining experience. Solviva, Terranea Resort’s new all-day wellness eatery, challenges that perception with an expertly crafted menu focused both on the benefits and the beauty of a well-balanced dish. “It has to be nutritious, it has to be textural, and it’s got to be beautiful to look at,” explains Terranea’s vice president of culinary experiences and executive chef, Bernard Ibarra. “It’s a different way of looking at food. There is nothing that’s forbidden; it’s just perfectly balanced.” The collaboration between Ibarra, executive sous chef Bruce Nguyen and Terranea’s in-house nutritionist, Navil Lorenzana, is what created that balance. “We don’t adhere to any fad diets,” Navil
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says. “We crafted our menu with wellness in mind. That diet mentality is what we want to get away from.” The result of their work is a tantalizing menu full of character and personality. “It’s food that tells a story,” Chef Ibarra says. “It’s not another dining option that we’re offering; it’s a dining destination.” Further enhancing Solviva’s culinary delights is the restaurant’s seaside locale. Diners can opt to cozy up inside or enjoy their meal while gazing at the Pacific. Each dish uses locally grown products from sustainable and reputable farmers and fisherman. Feeling indulgent? Save room for dessert or take a peek at the list of libations curated by Terranea’s wine director and certified sommelier, Alicia Ajolo. For the discerning guest, the nutritional information is listed beneath each menu item.
At the helm of the kitchen, bringing to life Solviva’s visionary menu items, is chef de cuisine RJ Dela Merced. While creating menu items that are balanced nutritionally requires him to work within certain parameters, it also inspires creativity. “It challenges you to think about what you can do. It forces you to be creative and look for a different path to achieve something.” Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Solviva is certainly an indulgence you can feel good about. To experience Solviva and learn more about Terranea’s culinary offerings, please call 855-416-3928 100 Terranea Way in Rancho Palos Verdes. terranea.com
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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No stock photo of people shaking hands? Even our ads are different from other banks.
Darrell Daniel III SVP/Sr. Relationship Manager (310) 237-6204 2141 Rosecrans Avenue, Ste 1100 El Segundo, CA 90245
Official Business Bank
PPBI.com /LosAngeles
Serving the Business Community Across the Southbay Pacific Premier Bank is a wholly owned subsidiary of Pacific Premier Bancorp, Inc. From Forbes.com, Jan 16, 2019 Š 2019 Forbes. All rights reserved. Used by permission and protected by the Copyright Laws of the United States. The printing, copying, redistribution, or retransmission of this Content without express written permission is prohibited. Pacific Premier Bank is a registered trademark.
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Best Buds
Two South Bay women create flower power with a floral subscription service. WRITTEN BY ELIZA KRPOYAN | PHOTOGRAPHED BY LAUREN PRESSEY
In a time of virtual reality, multiple screens and AI, a sense of healing comes from green materials. “You’re torn—you like technology, but sometimes you just want to go on a hike, run in the woods or pick flowers,” explains Rhenee Bartlett, co-founder and COO of flower subscription company PetalFox. Gesturing like she’s touching a tangible item, founder and CEO Kelly Nyland adds, “What can you get your hands on that’s not screen-related?” Flowers seem to be having a moment. Peonies, baby’s breath and pampas grass trend on social media. And unlike fiddle-leaf fig trees and, yes, even succulents, floral arrangements require zero maintenance. “The wonderful thing about flowers is that they don’t require anything from you,” says Kelly. “There’s an ephemerality built into a flower because it’s going to fade. There’s real beauty in embracing that.” After working in corporate environments, Kelly—a mom and executive in technology for the past 15 years—conceived PetalFox. “I love flowers. It was simple,” Kelly shares. “Why can’t I have flowers in my space everyday?” she thought. It would be a way of embracing femininity in a male-dominant workplace. “It’s also a way to have something in my space that reminded me that I was taking care of myself. I would look down at my nails and be like, ‘Okay, you haven’t done anything with those.’” Across from her office at Snapchat was a wonderful florist she frequented. “I used to walk into this place where they had flowers everyday, and I started thinking, ‘What was the friction point for me having flowers in my office or more often in my life?’ And it didn’t really have to do with price … it had to do with the different stigma around getting flowers in the workplace and the convenience of that happening.” From there she thought about the customer experience and how she would like to get flowers. “The only thing I pay attention to in my life are my text messages,” admits Kelly. “I turn off all my other notifications on my phone.” She knew that she didn’t want to build an app. “Nobody needs another app. It’s just going to go into the app bin.” Kelly enlisted the help of Rhenee (a Snapchat colleague) to create an accessible subscription
and on-demand service on the user’s terms. PetalFox offers a “set it and forget it” subscription service where you choose the frequency of deliveries, and whether to “get it, gift it or skip it” at anytime. The price of each arrangement is $29.99 plus $5 flat-rate shipping. They deliver to eight states including California, New Mexico, Washington and Oregon. Another option is the text commerce experience. “You’ll sign up with your phone number, and then each week you’ll get a picture from us of a mood board with some lifestyle elements and the types of flowers that are shipping,” explains Kelly. If you want to get the arrangement or gift it to someone, you’ll be able to respond with a flower emoji or “Yes.” If you don’t want the arrangement, you won’t even have to reply. You can ignore the message. “That’s the type of convenient experience I wanted in a subscription,” says Kelly, who had tried beauty and fashion subscriptions where she didn’t like or need the products. “I think technology should serve us. It should help create more convenience and not less convenience, which is how I feel about the subscription industry. It’s difficult at times with certain companies to cancel or get a refund or get out of something. You get locked in or there isn’t value there. I had a lot of negative experiences with that—and some positive—so I was really looking to bridge that gap.” Bouquets are only the beginning. Kelly and Rhenee plan to build PetalFox into a lifestyle brand including home and fashion products. Kelly documents their entrepreneurial journey on their website as a source for other female entrepreneurs who are thinking about turning their side hustle into a dream job or looking to pioneer in an industry they don’t know. “Rhenee and I have this incredible background of taking things that don’t exist and making them real and tangible,” says Kelly, who has brought more than 120 digital and physical products to market in 40 countries and launched 10 global brands. Over the course of 15 years, Rhenee has produced events and marketing campaigns for major brands including Pepsi and AT&T. Follow their journey as PetalFox continues to flourish and plant their entrepreneurial seeds. ■
The wonderful thing about flowers is that they don’t require anything from you. There’s an ephemerality built into a flower because it’s going to fade. There’s real beauty in embracing that.”
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Interior Motives With a stylish eye, Park MGM and NoMad hotel have redesigned the Las Vegas experience. WRITTEN BY ELIZA KRPOYAN
Imagine walking into a Las Vegas hotel room and wondering who designed the furniture and where you could get the sconces. If you’ve ever stayed on The Strip, you know this has been an unlikely sentiment … until now. MGM Resorts commissioned Sydell Group (behind hotels like the LINE and Freehand) to transform the former Monte Carlo Resort into Park MGM and NoMad Las Vegas. The result is a lifestyleinspired experience. The lobby of Park MGM is designed to feel like a luxury residential building in New York City. It features kiosks for self check-in so guests can avoid standing in line. Guests can also skip the kiosks and check in on their phone, which doubles as their room key and amplifies the feeling of a private dwelling. Paris-based designers Studio Be-poles curated a collection of original artwork. Suspended from the ceiling of the lobby is a commissioned piece by Brazilian artist Henrique Oliveira. The focal point is made with weathered reclaimed wood and resembles the roots of a tree. Other works include a commissioned series of iPad drawings by David Hockney and landscape murals throughout the casino by French artist Claire Basler. While you don’t have to walk through the casino to get to your room, the main entrance to Park MGM is off The Strip through Eataly. The 40,000-square-foot authentic Italian marketplace opened at the end of December 2018. It’s an attribute to the sense of metropolitan high-rise living. Imaginative artwork extends into the resort’s restaurants including Bavette’s Steakhouse & Bar and Primrose, which features photographs by Harry Gruyaert and original linocut prints from Pablo Picasso. Inside Bavette’s, illustrator David Plunkert (whose work has appeared in countless publications including Time, The New Yorker and The New York Times) was enlisted to create a series of murals. The colorful, contemporary
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pieces are a collection of block cows created using acrylic and digital mixed media. Each guestroom at Park MGM is adorned with a gallery of artwork including photographs, collages and paintings in a variety of frames and sizes. The rooms—designed by British designer Martin Brudnizki—are decorated in a palette of red or green inspired by cacti and succulents. Picture a rich red feature wall contrasted against stark white bedding. The space also includes antique-inspired furniture like a brown leather tufted armchair and a singlecolumn, walnut oval table. On the top four floors of Park MGM is 293-room NoMad Las Vegas—a “hotel within a resort.” Designed by French architect and designer Jacques Garcia, every room features custom furniture and—like the rest of the property—carefully selected artwork. As you’d expect to find in a Parisian flat, the suites feature freestanding pedestal bathtubs. The NoMad commands its own entrance from the street as well as its own casino, restaurant and bar inspired by the iconic Library bar of NoMad New York. The American fare dining destination is the brainchild of Chef Daniel Humm and restaurateur Will Guidara of Eleven Madison Park. Park MGM also highlights the performing arts with Park Theater. The intimate, 5,200seat venue features engagements with artists including Bruno Mars, Cher, Ricky Martin and Lady Gaga. It’s easy to forget that the joint venture is nearly 3,000 rooms. The accommodations are boutique and incredibly stylish. You’ll muse whether you’re in Manhattan or Paris. Because the partnership has created a millennial lifestyle hub, guests have little desire to leave the property. However, a visit to Spago overlooking the Fountains of Bellagio, the recently opened Catch at Aria and the consistently amazing Nobu Restaurant at Caesars Palace may prompt a longer stay. ■
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Scary Good
El Segundo special effects makeup artist Kris Kobzina puts blood and guts into his work … for real. WRITTEN BY DARREN ELMS PHOTOGRAPHED BY NANCY PASTOR
When he was 7 years old, Kris Kobzina’s mother sat him down to watch the 1931 Universal horror classic Frankenstein. This first exposure to special effects makeup would flip a switch in his young, creative mind. “I was instantly hooked and had so many questions, like how long did it take to put Boris Karloff in makeup? What materials did they use to create such a seamless, iconic look?” he remembers. Kris went to the library to read up on all things Frankenstein. From there he went on to Dracula, The Wolfman, The Mummy and all the sequels. “I watched them all and loved every minute of it,” he shares. “I still love them.” A kid of the ‘70s and ‘80s, Kris grew up with all the great special effects horror movies of the era. It also didn’t hurt that Halloween was his favorite holiday. “I was always doing makeup on myself and freaking out my parents and friends,” he says. But it was while living in Virginia that a roommate unexpectedly led him to professional training. Knowing how much Kris loved the craft, the roommate started gathering information about makeup schools all over the world. He was surprised how many options were available to him and eventually found Joe Blasco’s school in Orlando, Florida. Kris moved to Orlando without knowing a soul and landed on the school’s waiting list. When Halloween came around, he did his own makeup and entered a costume contest—
winning first place and a cruise to the Bahamas. “I couldn’t believe it,” he says. “As a result, the school enrolled me and offered me a scholarship.” After completing school, Kris moved to Los Angeles and began teaching at the sister school to Joe Blasco’s in Hollywood while honing his own craft. “It was like a college education in everything makeup, and I did that for about 2½ years.” Shortly thereafter he got a job at one of the big prosthetic shops in town that acquired a few notable projects, including Marvel’s 2000 edition of Spider-Man. “I had to sign an NDA, and I couldn’t even tell my fiancé what I was working on. Months and months of silence is tough, but you get used to it.” After Spider-Man, it would be a career in special effects makeup or nothing. “I never wanted to do other types of makeup,” he explains. “All my focus went into meeting and networking with other talented artists. It’s truly a never-ending learning process with many different techniques, and I wanted to learn them all. Even on my own time in between movie projects I find myself doing personal projects to push myself further.” Now an established and soughtafter artist in the industry, Kris can point to several film and TV projects with his handiwork on them. Yet the average filmgoer never sees the steps involved with creating and sculpting makeup for some of their favorite characters.
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“It can take weeks to create and perfect, and you have to take so many things into consideration,” Kris notes. “One of the toughest I did was CSI because when you’re working on television, there’s always a quicker turnaround to meet the deadline. We would have a few days to recreate a silicone body loaded with silicone guts so the actor could perform an autopsy starting with an incision and all the gory details emerging.” Kris also traveled to Ghana with colleague Chris Burgoyne as a key makeup artist on Netflix’s Beasts Of No Nation starring Idris Elba. “It was very hot, and we had to get creative sometimes—working with limited resources in the jungle,” he recalls. “But I’m always up for a new challenge.” Kris just finished a new movie (one he can’t talk about yet but is really excited about) and continues to make prosthetics for film and television projects at his studio in Smoky Hollow. He also plans to teach prosthetic classes and a weekend course in his downtime. Last summer he opened his studio for tours during the El Segundo Art Walk. Looking back on his career, Kris is thankful for the mentorships, opportunities and great fun he’s experienced over the years. He recalls a particularly enjoyable gig working on Marvel’s The Punisher in 2004. “Amongst all of the blood gags and bodies, we got the opportunity to work with professional wrestler Kevin Nash and had to make a full body with a silicone head and limbs,” he shares. “He gets his head twisted around facing his back when he meets his demise by the Punisher. Lots of good, bloody fun.” ■
FACE TIME
What’s involved in the process of creating a mask or makeup? First we get the actor’s life cast. This is the process of applying a bald cap to protect their hair, then covering them with impression material called alginate and backing it up with plaster bandages until it’s all set. We carefully get the actor out of the cast without damaging the cast. Then we create a positive in stone or epoxy material so it is strong and durable for many uses.
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Next we move on to the sculpting process, which is a very important step in the look of the mask or makeup. Once the sculpture is complete it will be molded— again using stone or epoxy material. The set-up mold gets opened; all the clay from the sculpture gets cleaned out and then put back together. The void where the clay once was is then filled with skin-safe silicone or latex, such as foamed latex, which is very flexible and lightweight. From there it’s all about cleaning up any seams, then embarking on painting all the details … and a mask/makeup is born.
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Every Little Step As America’s interest in Irish dance continues to grow, World Champion and Riverdance lead Tara Barry-Phelan brings both her talent and her training to Manhattan Beach. WRITTEN BY AMBER KLINCK PHOTOGRAPHED BY NANCY PASTOR
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T
ara Barry-Phelan whisks into De Barra Academy of Irish Dance, settling into the quiet studio before her 4 p.m. class members arrive. “Happy Christmas,” she says with a smile as she hands over a box of Irish chocolates. Tara is a natural beauty—petite and effortlessly charming with an unmistakable accent that immediately reveals her Irish roots. On stage, however, she’s a force—disciplined and powerful with every deliberate step perfected after years of hard work and dedication. That’s what led Tara to a successful professional career in Irish dance and what she now hopes to pass on to her students. While teaching came as a natural progression in Tara’s career, it was the years she spent competing that served as her foundation as a dancer, and her victories that gave her the notoriety to earn a spot as one of the original dancers of Riverdance the Show. For Tara, dancing was ingrained in her childhood.
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“Irish dance is in schools,” Tara explains. “It’s very much a part of the curriculum. Everybody learns a basic Irish step; you can’t really be Irish and not.” Tara’s older brother also danced in his youth. “He would have been a World Champion 10 times over,” she notes. “He could do flips on the spot and still can. But back then they wore kilts, so there was a bit of teasing. He laughs now and says, ‘Why didn’t I stick it out?’” Tara was 3 years old when she first attended the Cowhie-Ryan School of Irish Dancing. By 7 she won her first Munster Championship. By 12 she won her first World Championship, and her second at 15. In addition to the two World Championship titles, Tara’s accolades include six AllIreland Championships, two British National Championships and 10 total Munster Championships. When the first performance of Riverdance
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made its debut, it was for the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest with Jean Butler and Michael Flatley as the lead dancers. The response was overwhelmingly positive, and soon young dancers with impressive stats were approached to join the first tour. “Riverdance [the tour] started in ’95; I was 18,” Tara says. “It started in Dublin. The irony of it all, when Michael Flatley started and created Riverdance, all these people I’ve known all my life through competitions—we all became friends. We all ended up on tour living together.” With no way of knowing how popular Riverdance would become or how it quickly it would spread, Tara jumped at the chance to be a part of the most celebrated show of the moment. It was the chance of a lifetime. “I think most of us thought [that the tour] would be maybe six weeks, that we’d never get this opportunity again. Twenty-five years later, and it’s still going.” Tara started in the troupe and then eventually was chosen as an understudy. “The show had grown so big they had to develop a second and a third show,” Tara notes. “They had a show doing Europe, Asia, New Zealand and Australia, which was just amazing. It was unbelievable … just hotel to hotel to hotel. It was brilliant, the audiences and the different cities. And then they offered me the lead role for the American tour.” Tara’s first introduction to the States was New York City. “It was insane,” she says. “It was a culture shock.” As the tour continued, so did Tara’s exposure to the diversity of America. “You start to really realize everyone doesn’t talk the same. Each city was like a different country to me,” she notes. It didn’t take long, however, for Tara to acclimate. “You get used to living here,” she says. “Every time I’d go home, I’d pine to come back.” Tara traveled around the world and across the United States with Riverdance for nine years. But it was in Chicago that she met her husband, Dan. “I met him in a restaurant/bar that was managed by four people from my hometown. I was in Chicago for four weeks.” Now residing in the South Bay, Tara and Dan have expanded their family to include three daughters: 10-year-old twins, Reeve and Jola, and 6-year-old Freya. All three girls are studying Irish dance. “My twins are good,” Tara says, “they’re very good. And my 6-yearold just started dancing—she’s priceless! She takes it very seriously.” Tara began teaching Irish dance more than eight years ago. But it was her daughter’s
growing interest to learn that inspired her to study for the highest internationally recognized credential an Irish dance instructor can receive: the TCRG. “It’s really rough,” Tara points out. “It’s a good yearlong studying process,” and that’s coming from someone who has spent their entire life dancing competitively and professionally. It’s an extremely hard exam. But I realized with [teaching] my own daughters, I had to do it.” A good performer is animated, exuding charisma while capturing the attention of the audience. They make the miracles they perform on stage look effortless, and that’s
“It’s hard, but if you love what you’re doing, you just enjoy it. It’s brilliant.” because they’ve mastered the fundamentals. “It’s like ballet,” Tara explains. “You have to teach them the structure, the really good basics from when they’re very small. A lot of people misunderstand Irish dancing. They either know Riverdance or they think it’s wigs and curls and crazy costumes, when really it’s probably one of the most disciplined sports.” Fundamentals are important to Tara. They’re a priority in how she teaches her students and her daughters, and her methods get results. The De Barra Academy of Irish Dance is new, really new. “I’m in my absolute infancy. I was like, ‘I’m going to just go in and do this and see what happens.’ And as of August, it just grew. We just had our very first regional Oireachtas.” An Oireachtas is an Irish term for qualifiers. “There are different regions in America. Our region, the West Coast, has 14 states, and all the kids from those states compete. All the kids that were dancing with me since August, every single one of them was recalled into the third round—which is a
great achievement for a school only open for 2½ months.” So what is it about Irish dance that’s attracting so much growing American interest? “I think it’s the energy,” Tara says. Even if you’ve only seen performances on-screen, the movements are mesmerizing—a blend of rhythm and fluidity juxtaposed with explosive bouts of power. Tara also attributes the growth in popularity to Riverdance. “I think from the onset of Riverdance it changed the whole trajectory of Irish dancing 100%.” And with many of the original cast members from Riverdance—as well as Lord of the Dance—settling in the States, there’s been a considerable impact on the “growth and high standards that have developed in Irish dance over the last decade,” she continues. “The irony of it has me really proud because my own daughters were born here. And also because I remember being that Irish child and thinking, ‘I’ll kick the Americans’ butts,’ and now it’s the other way around.” With Tara at the helm of the academy, she finds herself at the beginning of a new chapter in her career … and it’s exciting. “It’s hard, but if you love what you’re doing, you just enjoy it. It’s brilliant.” The academy’s continued growth means the addition of more incredible instructors to the team, as well as offering additional opportunities for students to learn from guest talent, including an open workshop this February with the Fusion Fighters. “They were on Britain’s Got Talent and Dancing with the Stars UK & Ireland. They’re amazing,” Tara says. “To me, it’s so important that each child that comes in here has the fundamental basics and they know exactly what they’re doing. I feel like it’s my duty.” A duty to her students and to her daughters. “I’m on both sides of the fence,” she says. “I’m a mom, so I understand. On the day of competition, my own kids are competing. [The parents] come to me for help because I know how they feel.” And it’s true: Her experience as a student, competitor, performer, teacher and now as the mother of three young dancers gives Tara a uniquely well-rounded perspective of the world of dance. And still when she talks about her craft, she exudes excitement. Tara loves what she does, and it shows. “I’m amazed at the talent in the South Bay; it’s unreal,” she says. And then, right on time, her 4 p.m. class filters in. The studio is no longer quiet, and Tara once again takes the lead. ■
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BeneFiesta! An annual Jimmy Miller Memorial Foundation Celebration Join us in honoring our Wounded Warriors, veterans, at-risk youth and volunteers whose lives have been forever changed by Ocean Therapy.
Saturday, May 18 2019 th
Manhattan Beach, CA
SAVE THE DATE! CHECK OUR WEBSITE FOR TICKET INFORMATION
Come share a sensational evening with music, live auction, art, fun dining stations and the presentation of our first ever “Pure Surfing Experience Award!”
The Jimmy Miller Memorial Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization #20-1702191 is dedicated to honoring the life of our inspiration, Jimmy Miller, by supporting the healing of mental and physical illness through surfing and ocean related activities. Through recreational, education, and mentoring programs, the Jimmy Miller Memorial Foundation enables surfers, educators, therapists, lifeguards and friends to help people affected by mental and physical illness feel the joy and healing power of the ocean and surfing.
Join us this summer to Volunteer. Summer Schedule to be posted soon to www.jimmymillerfoundation.org/events. Text JMMF to 707070 to Donate! Help us raise funds for our Ocean Therapy programs – new rashguards, new surfboards! Please help us reach our goals! Check out the details here: www.pledgeling.com/jmmf-ocean-therapy-surfboards JMMF is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization #20-1702191. Your donations are fully tax-deductible. Please consult your tax professional.
A Night On The Nile Embark On An Opulent Voyage Through Ancient Egypt TO BENEFIT LOCAL PHILANTHROPIES SUPPORTED BY THE PALOS VERDES JUNIOR WOMEN’S CLUB
SATURDAY, MARCH 23, 2019, 6:00PM - MIDNIGHT TRUMP NATIONAL GOLF CLUB RANCHO PALOS VERDES H OSTED COC KTA I L H O U R D INNE R , E NTE RTAI N M EN T, S I LEN T & LI V E A U CTI ON S EA R LY B I R D $22 5 . 0 0 P ER P ER S O N A FTER MA RC H 1 $25 0. 00 P ER P ER S ON FO R M OR E I NFOR MAT I ON A ND TO P URCH ASE TICKETS V ISIT WWW.P V J UNIORS.ORG P ROGR A M A D VE RT I SING AND SPONSORSH IPS ALSO AVAILABLE
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ON THE MARKET
Marymount California University alumna Michaelanne Butler at Oxford University, where she is earning her MBA.
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SCHOOL S P OT L I G H T
SMALL MEANS MORE A passion for green business leads a Marymount California University alumna to pursue an Oxford University MBA. WRITTEN BY LAURA L. WATTS | PHOTOGRAPHED BY SIRI BERTING
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ounded in 1968 by the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary Catholic order, today Marymount California University is a four-year institution that welcomes students of all faiths and backgrounds to pursue a bachelor’s degree at its oceanview campus in Rancho Palos Verdes. Students thrive in small, interactive classes, guided by dedicated professors who notice their potential and connect them with career-launching experiences. Alumna Michaelanne Butler knows firsthand about those life-changing experiences. During her senior year in high school, Michaelanne and her family were nearly homeless—living in an RV after they lost their business during the recession. She finished high school online and didn’t think college would be a reality given her situation … until she found Marymount California University, which gave her a generous scholarship to attend. MCU’s small-school ambience really appealed to Michaelanne, as did the beautiful location. “On my first tour, I was equally smitten with both the view and the learning environment,” she shares. Little did she know that this intimate atmosphere would lead her to wide-reaching, transformative experiences across the globe—including graduate studies at Oxford University. “It’s all because people knew my name—
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because Marymount is small,” she says, sharing that many of her MCU friends have also made great accomplishments simply because the school—professors as well as other students—knew them, understood their capabilities and presented them with opportunities to explore, create and succeed in school and life. “At Marymount California University, small means more,” shares university president, Brian Marcotte. “More exploring, more opportunities and more connections with faculty who know students’ potential and push them to pursue experiences that make them successful.” Accessible professors, interactive classes and off-campus experiences bring learning to life at MCU. Students gain professional skills through internships in the field, access to industry experts, connections with supportive faculty, behind-the-scenes site visits and other career-driving opportunities. Marymount offers a student-centered, tight-knit community—a safe place in which to explore different interests, gain job experience and grow as a person. “But you have to engage in it,” Michaelanne advises. And engage in it she did. While attending Marymount, Michaelanne was interested in both global studies and commerce. “I wanted to fuse the best of business and philanthropy; I basically
wanted to learn how to change the world!” she says. Enrolling in professor Duncan Earle’s global development class was a pivotal step in that direction. “From day one, Michaelanne was an exceptional incoming student with an amazing drive toward making her education maximize her capabilities to do what she wants to do,” says Dr. Earle. “She has a ‘fire in the belly’ for her passions of environment, international/ local social development and responsible business. She sculpted her entire undergraduate career with this goal in mind.” Dr. Earle, who mentored Michaelanne as she continued to take his classes, owns Jadora—a company that supports large-scale rainforest preservation and sustainable community development in the Democratic Republic of Congo. As he got to know Michaelanne, he connected her with green business experiences. After Michaelanne graduated from MCU in 2015, Dr. Earle hired her to work for Jadora International in Seattle. “She is going to be a major global force, moving the worlds of business and social and environmental concerns together,” he says. “Her insight continues to be enriched by her studies.” “I’m really excited by this work because protecting trees gives us an opportunity to improve the livelihoods of those living under
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This photo: Marymount California University professor Duncan Earle Bottom left: Michaelanne Butler at Oxford University Bottom right: MCU’s oceanview campus in Rancho Palos Verdes; Duncan Earle in the field in DR Congo
“I THINK MY ENTIRE EXPERIENCE AT MCU REALLY PREPARED ME TO WORK IN THIS INNOVATIVE CONSERVATION CONTEXT.” the canopy,” Michaelanne says of her job, which she continues to excel at while also pursuing her MBA at Saïd Business School at University of Oxford in England. “I think my entire experience at MCU really prepared me to work in this innovative conservation context. Not only do I frequently find myself applying concepts I learned in class, but I am also constantly drawing on the skills I developed in my study abroad experiences and extracurricular activities.” Michaelanne is a shining example of how Marymount California University’s small, supportive community and interactive learning approach make it a great career launchpad. Professors at MCU know their students and their potential, and they push their students to pursue the experiences that make them successful. “We are really proud of Michaelanne’s accomplishments,” says President Marcotte. “She is an example of how MCU alumni succeed in life and in their careers.”
MARYMOUNT CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY 30800 PALOS VERDES DRIVE EAST RANCHO PALOS VERDES 310-377-5501 GO.MARYMOUNTCALIFORNIA.EDU
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A Museum in Manhattan Beach?
Recently elected Manhattan Beach Cultural Arts Commissioner, Orhan Taner shares his vision for arts, culture and inclusion. WRITTEN BY SARA DEBEVEC | PHOTOGRAPHED BY MONICA OROZCO
Orhan Taner grew up in Istanbul and came to the U.S. about 40 years ago for college. After a long investment banking career in New York City, he decided to do some philanthropy work and in 2006 started the first international art fair in Istanbul. Named Contemporary Istanbul, it was one of the leading art fairs in the region. For many years Orhan was an actor on a wide spectrum of contemporary art … as a collector, a gallery owner, a curator and, most recently, an elected member of the Manhattan Beach Cultural Arts Commission. Although I met him for the first time at ShockBoxx Gallery—where his unique, urban-inspired photography was on show— he doesn’t like to call himself an artist. “I am, however, married to one,” he explains with a smile. Above all, Orhan is a visionary and a patron for the arts. “My entire life—both in business and life goals—I like starting new things. I consider myself (and others do too) a forward thinker.” His perspective on the South Bay is equally as elaborate as his involvement in the arts. He believes in integrating arts and culture into our daily lives. He is interested in the South Bay as a community and in how art can improve our standard of living. “Within 12 to 15 miles from here one can run into some of the best contemporary art museums in the world,” explains Orhan, “especially with the new art fair coming up in February (Frieze). Los Angeles is bound to be a major art destination.” In his opinion, Manhattan Beach and the South Bay should benefit from it and contribute to it. A lot of people in the South Bay are involved in producing art as a hobby, and
sometimes the quality is superb. As part of the city of Manhattan Beach’s Cultural Arts Commission, Orhan and his fellow commissioners recently asked the community to submit proposals for the beautification of utility boxes. They were greatly surprised to discover how many hidden artists there are in Manhattan Beach. “There is a tremendous and deep interest in the arts in this area,” he explains, “and I really respect what the artists are doing here. I call it beach-inspired contemporary art (or BICA, for short).” Consequently, he started the Manhattan Beach Art Foundation with the aim of integrating the art of the South Bay into the world and integrating the art of the world into the South Bay. The goal of Manhattan
There is a tremendous and deep interest in the arts in this area, and I really respect what the artists are doing here. I call it beach-inspired contemporary art (or BICA, for short).” Beach Art Foundation is to invite beachinspired contemporary artists from all over the world—including California, Hawaii, Australia, Indonesia as well as Southern and Northern Europe.
“We want to make that connection between the ocean, the beach and contemporary art, and we want to be in the center of it. It will involve a lot of site-specific installations, most of which will be right on the beach itself and some of the structures on the beach, such as the piers. It will also involve quite a bit of exhibitions in various buildings: schools, churches, existing art centers, government buildings, as well as in the parks.” One of his ideas is to build a Manhattan Beach contemporary art museum that will serve as a flagship venue for a future beach-inspired art biennale. It will house a permanent collection and allow the residents of the South Bay to frequent a world-class museum right in their neighborhood. Orhan hopes it will also encourage the community to visit other local museums regularly, including LACMA, The Getty, The Broad, Hammer Museum and MOCA. As a father of a 12-year-old, he adds, “The general idea behind Manhattan Beach Art Foundation is to educate people on the value of art.” He states that while our schools do an excellent job in teaching basic skills to our students, “we as a community, as parents, together with the schools need to inject a higher dosage of creativity into our education system, and the perfect way to do that is through art.” Orhan’s project involves long-term planning, “and these things don’t happen overnight. But with the right partners—both civic and corporate—I believe this will become one of the most sought-after art events in the South Bay.” ■
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Art Meets East A journey through Japan’s breathtaking Setouchi region uncovers a not-to-be-missed triennial contemporary art festival and a variety of striking art installations. WRITTEN BY ELIZA KRPOYAN PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHOKOPHOTO
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The air was still on this sunny afternoon on the island of Teshima in the Setouchi region of Japan. A 20-minute walk led us into the depths of a forest. Here, artist Christian Boltanski installed 400 wind chimes in a work entitled La Forêt des Murmures. Like trees, the heights of the wind chimes vary. Each has a transparent strip where the name of a loved one could be registered and inscribed. With every step we took, leaves rustled beneath us. An occasional breeze caused the bells to chime softly. The sound was soothing and one that stays with you. I could imagine the whirring on a windy day. “This artwork is an endless work. It is my hope that the entire forest will eventually echo with the sound of wind chimes,” Boltanski notes. “Maybe it will become a place of pilgrimage, where people still come to pray after my name is forgotten.” The Setouchi Region is comprised of seven prefectures covering 350 islands flanking the Seto Inland Sea. These islands have experienced a dramatic decline in production and population due to modern generations not participating in the local trades of fishing and farming. On the island of Teshima in Kagawa Prefecture, the population has dwindled to only 800 people. Site-specific works of art, as well as another ongoing project by Boltanski entitled Les Archives du Coeur (Archives of the Heartbeat), draw visitors to Teshima. Since 2008 Boltanski has been recording the heartbeats of people from around the world. As with fingerprints, every person’s heartbeat is unique. At the museum visitors can record their heartbeat and are given a registration number and a CD-booklet as a memento. Visitors can also search the database by
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name and listen to any pulse recorded. The finale of the exhibit occurs when you enter a room with a single flickering light, mirrors and a powerful thumping sound of recorded heartbeats—one after another. Another draw to the island is artist Rei Naito and architect Ryue Nishizawa’s Teshima Art Museum. The stark white structure resembles a water droplet. Nestled in a forest, the only sounds you hear are birds chirping. It is the definition of serenity. You enter barefoot or in socks and watch for droplets that trickle out from the ground and travel throughout the space. The experience mimics gazing through the window on a rainy day and watching droplets travel—but on a much larger scale. There are many more museums and oneoff installations that beckon exploration of the various islands. In Naoshima’s Honmura district is the not-to-be-missed Chichu Art Museum. Built underground to not disrupt the natural landscape, the museum features five Water Lilies paintings by Claude Monet in a commanding, all-white marble room where you’re given slippers to wear and viewing is limited to a handful of people at a time. There are also three works by artist James Turrell including an immersive light installation that allows visitors to step into an opening that emanates purple light. It appears— impossibly and paradoxically—to have endless depth and yet be one-dimensional. While on the island of Naoshima one must also experience the Art House Project. Naoshima’s population has declined over time, leaving homes in the region abandoned. In this project, seven vacant homes were given new life by artists who created a work of art in the spaces. Among the artists to curate one of the
abandoned homes is Turrell, who installed an experiential piece, Backside of the Moon. A local who has found his life’s calling through art, Turrell guides the enigmatic exhibition of sight, which is a personal favorite and should be experienced without prior explanation. The power of art isn’t only its ability to move people—but also how it brings people together. In addition to these permanent works, the Benesse Group—Japan’s largest education company—introduced The Setouchi Triennale in 2010. The festival, themed “Restoration of the Sea,” aimed to bring happiness to the elderly islanders, fishermen and farmers and revitalize the islands’ economies. In 2016 the islands welcomed more than 1 million visitors to the art festival. The effects of the festival can be seen in the regeneration of the communities. Through the triennial, the resident numbers have increased. As a result, an elementary school reopened on Ogijima Island. This year the triennial contemporary art festival will be held in the spring, summer and fall (April 26 to May 26; July 19 to August 25; and September 28 to November 4). To date, there are 184 visual and performance artists from more than 30 countries participating. Some works of art will be selected to become permanent fixtures (La Forêt des Murmures was unveiled during the 2016 Setouchi Triennale). Before visiting the Setouchi region of Japan, there had not been an art installation that moved me, nor had I witnessed the power it has to bring people together. Now, like Christian Boltanski hoped, I would make the journey to Japan to experience more site-specific works and couldn’t recommend it more. ■
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Morgan’s Jewelers Torrance VIP 5/5/5 Event
Russell Varon and guests
Morgan’s guests
Chef Mike Aliotta
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Morgan’s Thess Duong and guests Rendi Hill and Rick Hill
Melissa Varon Weinberg, Kimberly Coletti, Judith Gassner, Karen Varon
Madeline Schenasi and Alex Schumacher
Kelly Piken and Shirley Huang
Richard Hanson and Carol Magee
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Morgan’s hosted their VIP clients at a festive celebration involving five local restaurants: Aliotta’s Via Firenze, Baran’s 2239, Bettolino Kitchen, Hook & Plow and Playa Hermosa; and five wineries and spirits: Battaglini, Hillersden, Uncorked, Wanderlust and Asombroso Tequila. The five featured designers were Marco Bicego, Roberto Coin, Morgan’s Collection, Norman Silverman and Shay.
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Season’s Eatings Presented by Ferguson
PHOTOGRAPHED BY KRISTIN ANDERSON
Three feasts. One night. Thanks to Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery, Southbay magazine hosted a holiday foodie event in Redondo Beach in partnership with KOHLER, Jenn-Air and Progress Lighting. Locals flocked to the showroom to indulge in Lisa’s Bon Appetit’s seasonal creations. Guests enjoyed a traditional Christmas supper with a “Holiday Fixin’s” bar and shopped at the Maison Luxe pop-up shop. For Hanukkah, a build-your-own latkes bar complemented the Flores Lane handmade candle station. A New Year’s Eve lucky foods appetizer bar provided inspiration for 2019 parties. To end the year on a sweet note, it was paired with the Barsha Wines & Spirits Champagne flights and artisan sorbets from Craiger’s. In each section, Rolling Hills Flower Mart created elaborate, unique arrangements inspired by each holiday. Special thanks to King Harbor Brewing Company, Choura Events and Penta for making this event possible.
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PV Junior Women’s Club Holiday Luncheon & Boutique The Palos Verdes Junior Women’s Club held their annual holiday luncheon and shopping boutique at the Palos Verdes Golf Club in December. The “Sip, Shop and Sparkle” themed fundraiser included lunch overlooking the golf course, seasonal music entertainment, unique vendors, a live auction, games and prizes. Proceeds will benefit local women and children in crisis. Julie Douglass, Leslie Low, Sandra Wang, Nadia ElgrablyMcMahon, Vivian Hung, Mary Kelliny, Camille Wall
Heather Younghusband, Cheryl Michaels, Mary Kelliny, Annmarie Wargin
Barbara Magee, Jacqueline Huber, Donna Moussalli
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Caroline Kelliny and Savannah Green
Eunice Sheng, Alla Kerker, Julie Hadley
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Asia American Symphony Fundraiser The Asia America Symphony Association held its 10th annual tennis tournament, dinner and concert at the Palos Verdes Golf Club. After dinner and a live auction with Manhattan Beach Mayor Steve Napolitano as auctioneer, the evening culminated with an intimate performance by jazz legend David Benoit, members of the Asia America Youth Symphony and special guest musical artists. All net proceeds raised will be used to support AASA’s performance and mentorship programs for young musicians.
Robert Pacific, Eunjoo Pacific, Craig Sunada, Bruce Olson
Mayor Susan Brooks, David Benoit, Supervisor Janice Hahn, Kei Benoit
Lea Yasunaga, Merlin David, Karen Bronson, Lissa Malone, Tammy Hung
Front: Shari Sunada, Beth Altman. Back: Carol Flick, Lena Miller-Horii, Lissa Malone, April Parker, Lisa Lahr.
Linda Aratani, Alison Jamele, Kay Inose
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Holiday Festival Gala
Torrance Memorial Medical Center’s 35th annual Holiday Festival raised more than $1.5 million through event ticket sales, a Lexus opportunity drawing, holiday boutique sales, themed decorated tree sales, live and silent auctions, and donation pledges. More than 700 guests attended the sold-out dinner gala event. All funds raised go toward the new Hunt Cancer Center.
Front: Timur Tecimer, Regina Finnegan, Dan Finnegan, Guido Rietdyk. Back: Janice Tecimer, Steve Lopes, Helaine Lopes, Song Klein, Dave Klein, Sophie Rietdyk, Tracy Livian, Andy Livian.
Kapil Singh, Sandesha Singh, Jeff Neu, Tiffany Mesko, Kristina Durkin, Kevin Durkin, Andrea Zislis, Michael Zislis
Gina Doherty, Russ Varon, Matthew Weinberg, Melissa Weinberg, Pat Theodora, London Theodora, Amy White, Jaden Theodora
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Front: Melanie Lundquist, Richard Lundquist. Back: Barbara Demming-Lurie, Dr. Mark Lurie, Judy Leach, Craig Leach.
Paul Campbell, Cindy Campbell
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Las Madrecitas Evergreen Ball Las Madrecitas, an auxiliary of the Charitable Children’s Guild of the Orthopædic Institute for Children (OIC) held its annual Evergreen Ball at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel. This event honored the Las Niñas 2019 senior class for their volunteer service to OIC and their community.
Jacky Georges Calvignac, Lilo Babros, Mary Beth Perrine, Justine Lewis, Dr. and Mrs. Anthony Scaduto
PHOTOGRAPHED BY GILMORE STUDIOS
Helen Hong and Sandy Sang
Audrey Bogosian, Laura Gong, Madison Hama, Marina Kare
Grace Ryan, Sereene Saab, Kyra Smitham, Madeleine Suh
Kym Smitham and Brandy Calvignac
Lauren LaRue, Miley Oshiro, Corinne Perahia, Alexandra Porse
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TEDx Manhattan Beach Trail Blazers TEDx is about ideas worth spreading, the concepts that change our community and the world. The 2018 TEDx TRAIL BLAZERS event was an exciting day of big ideas and experiences, featuring an amazing lineup of speakers, plus an interactive expo, annual community art project, and delicious food and beverages for attendees to sample.
Annual community art project
Amy Lo
Andy Wood
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Heidi Pease
Otto Kriegel
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LA Kings Turkey for Tickets
The wives of several LA Kings players helped collect turkey donations with the Kings Care Foundation at the new Lazy Acres Market in Hermosa Beach. Turkeys were donated to Covenant House and St. Anne’s, and those who donated got tickets to an LA Kings home game at Staples Center.
Ines Kopitar, Nicole Doughty and Cat Toffoli with fans
PHOTOGRAPHED BY JP CORDERO
Cat Toffoli, Ines Kopitar, Sydnee Thompson, Nicole Doughty
Members of the LA Kings crew and Kings mascot, Bailey
Bailey and Lazy Acres employees
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Evening of Hope The Pregnancy Help Center recently held its sixth annual fundraising banquet. The uplifting program included inspirational messages from keynote speaker Jor-El Godsey, president of Heartbeat International, Adrienne Gross, center executive director, and a former client.
Board members Dr. Toks Kamson, Jeanne McLeod, Scott deBeaubien
Kim Sheckler and Deacon Dale Sheckler
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Libby Cavataio and Vic Cavataio
Lindy Wynne and Brian Wynne
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Carol Pfaff and Donald Pfaff
Madonna Rose, Tom Nolan, Ann Nolan
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Skechers president Michael Greenberg was honored on December 5 at the Two Ten Gala in New York for his outstanding local, national and global humanitarian achievements for children. He received the highest honor, the T. Kenyon Holly Award, for his decades-long commitment as a founder of the Friendship Foundation and Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk, revivalist of the Roundhouse Aquarium and donor for families in the wake of natural disasters. Michael Greenberg and presenter Brooke Burke
Michael Greenberg
Skechers Breaks Ground on Corporate Headquarters Expansion Skechers celebrated a new era and commitment to global growth and its hometown community by breaking ground on an expansion of the Skechers Corporate Headquarters that will span several adjacent buildings in Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach.
Rendering depicting the new Skechers Design Center in Hermosa Beach
David Weinberg, John Vandemore, Peter Mow, Michael Greenberg, Tim Ball
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Skechers executives, Hermosa Beach city council and Manhattan Beach city council members break ground on the new Skechers corporate headquarters.
PHOTOGRAPHED BY NATURAL EXPRESSIONS
Skechers President Michael Greenberg Receives Top Honor
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Go Red for Women Wellness Retreat and Executive Luncheon March 8, 2019 International Women's Day
westdrift Manhattan Beach 10AM-12PM: Retreat 12:15PM-1:30PM: Lunch
lagored.heart.org
Go Red for Women is locally sponsored by
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“I truly understand the local culture of the South Bay and the Greater Los Angeles area, as I have been a resident here for almost three decades. That experience allows me to take what clients want in a home or investment and accurately place them in a property that fits their lifestyle.” — RICHARD HAYNES, OWNER MANHATTAN PACIFIC REALTY
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Buying or selling a home is one of the most impactful decisions we make in life. For many of us, real estate is the most important investment in our portfolio; we count on it to ensure that we meet our financial goals and are provided for down the line. There is no better way to accomplish those goals than having knowledgeable, accomplished professionals by your side. An experienced real estate agent or mortgage broker will help you make wise decisions, find the best solutions and keep stress at bay—so you can keep your eye on the big picture. On the following pages you’ll meet some of the leading real estate professionals in the South Bay. They share their stories and key in on the skills and philosophies that have put them at the top of their fields.
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RICHARD HAYNES Manhattan Pacific Realty
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SERENE SULPOR & BARRY SULPOR Strand Hill | Christie’s International Real Estate
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KATHLEEN CARTIER & SLOANE SANDERS The Cartier Sanders Team
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MOLLY HOBIN WILLIAMS The Hobin Company
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TERRY NIEMANN & KATHARINE MEIER Chadmar’s Residences of Rolling Hills Country Club
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THE KONDO GROUP with Movoto Real Estate
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NEW AMERICAN FUNDING
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FRANK KOSTRENCICH & MICHAEL MARDESICH C2 Financial — South Bay
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HARCOURTS HUNTER MASON REALTY
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DAN O’CONNOR O’Connor Property Strand Hill | Christie’s International Real Estate
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GEORGE ROSENKRANZ, JD The Rosenkranz | Friedman Group
122 DARIN DERENZIS & MEREDITH JOHNSON Vista | Sotheby’s International Realty 124
CARLA B. HOFFMAN Vista | Sotheby’s International Realty
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LISA Y. LEVIN Strand Hill | Christie’s International Real Estate
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RICHARD HAYNES BROKER/OWNER MANHATTAN PACIFIC REALTY
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ichard Haynes’ career in real estate started while he was in college. He focused on entrepreneurship during his studies at USC Marshall School of Business and obtained his real estate license while still in college. After graduation he worked in the home lending field. Eventually he started Elwood Capital Group, Inc., a real estate investment firm and brokerage, which then spurred the founding of Manhattan Pacific Realty. Richard has worked in a variety of facets of the industry: mortgage broker, real estate agent and broker, home flipper, property manager, income property investor and spec home developer. The Manhattan Pacific Realty team focuses primarily on homes in Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, Redondo Beach and Palos Verdes. HOW DOES YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF THE SOUTH BAY BENEFIT CLIENTS? “I grew up in Palos Verdes and attended preschool through high school on the P.V. Peninsula. For college, I attended USC and lived in L.A. for four years. Post-college I have lived, worked and played full-time in all areas throughout Manhattan, Hermosa and Redondo Beach. I truly understand the local culture of the South Bay and the Greater Los Angeles area, as I have been a resident here for almost three decades. That experience allows me to take what clients want in a home or investment and accurately place them in a property that fits their lifestyle.” HOW HAS THE JOB OF BEING A REALTOR CHANGED IN RECENT YEARS? “The job of a Realtor has certainly changed
with the advent of open listing data on the internet. Most old-school agents have really had to make a change as a result of the open data. I am a millennial, so I’ve only known a real estate world where clients have access to Zillow and Redfin. Since my clients have access to all the current listings, I (and my fellow Realtors) really have to be a hyper-specialized consultant to my client— offering insight and advice beyond what is on the internet.” WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE SOUTH BAY NEIGHBORHOODS? “In Palos Verdes, my favorite neighborhood is Valmonte, where I grew up, along with Malaga Cove Plaza, where I worked internships for multiple companies during my school days. And how can you not love Terrenea and Portuguese Bend? I have lived in Hermosa for many years, and there is no better place to be in your 20s than the Hermosa Sand Section south of the pier. As I grew up a bit, I lived in Downtown Manhattan Beach, which is such amazing place. My first job post-college was in Redondo Beach, and I think The Avenues and Riviera Village are the most underrated neighborhoods in all the South Bay.” DOES THE CALIFORNIA HOUSING MARKET ACT AS PREDICTOR FOR THE REST OF THE COUNTRY? “I don’t think the California housing market is a predictor for the rest of the country. California has proven to be a boom/bust real estate economy pretty unique to its own, being the seventh largest economy in the world. Larger cities such as Los Angeles and San Francisco markets are similar and can
mimic larger cities such as New York and Chicago. However, I do not believe they can predict the rest of the country and those specific local markets.” GIVEN THE LOW INVENTORY HERE, HOW DO YOU GO ABOUT SOURCING HOMES FOR BUYERS? “We have our own special way of going about finding homes for clients; I don’t think inventory levels affect how we source homes. The most important factor is listening to clients. Almost every client has a specific home in mind, within a certain budget. What we are trying to do is find the best fit for them; whether there is high inventory or low inventory, the process stays the same.” WHAT ARE YOU THOUGHTS ON CLIENTS WORKING DIRECTLY WITH A LENDER? “It is essential that clients work directly with a lender. You do not want a client to spend all of their time searching for homes when they may, in fact, not qualify for one. Having a lender involved ultimately can make the process much smoother for our clients.” HOW DO YOU GIVE BACK TO YOUR COMMUNITY? “I am proud to be a member of USC Marshall Partners, where we donate and raise money for the Marshall School of Business and the Leventhal School of Accounting. It is great to see the funds grant hard-working students the opportunity to travel abroad to study international business, compete in a national competition or receive seed money for a promising start-up.” DRE #01909107 | DRE #01779425
2615 PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY, SUITE 100, HERMOSA BEACH | 310-379-1724 | MANHATTANPACIFICREALTY.COM
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KATHLEEN CARTIER & SLOANE SANDERS THE CARTIER SANDERS TEAM
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ealtors Kathleen Cartier and Sloane Sanders are a mother-daughter team specializing in residential real estate in the South Bay and beyond, including home buying and selling, investment properties, new construction and development, and corporate relocation. Their real estate careers span a combined 41 years, and their guiding principle is “Your Purpose, Our Passion ... Together Perfection!” WHY SHOULD CLIENTS PLACE THEIR TRUST IN YOU? “We have built our success on repeat and referral business, which reassures new clients that they can trust us with the most expensive asset that they will ever buy and/ or sell. We believe that we are ‘real estate life consultants’ rather than ‘salespeople,’ and it’s an honor to be considered our clients’ trusted advisors.” HOW DOES YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF AND EXPERIENCE IN THE SOUTH BAY BENEFIT CLIENTS? Kathleen: “I have lived in the South Bay since 1970 and am extremely knowledgeable of the history and evolution of the South Bay area. It is our ‘local’ knowledge and years of personal experience living in the South Bay that makes our clients feel as though they have the best possible area experts working on their behalf.” Sloane: “Being born and raised in the South Bay benefits our clients because I can share my personal knowledge about this community and all it has to offer. I attended the local schools, and I understand the nuances of the different neighborhoods and communities. I can ultimately talk about all the local events and traditions that make the
South Bay such a special place to live and raise a family.” WHAT SETS YOUR TEAM APART FROM OTHER AGENTS? “Our professionalism, attention to detail, and ability to communicate quickly and effectively with our clients. By operating as a team, our clients have access to a group of specialists all focused on supporting their objectives and ensuring that they experience the highest level ‘concierge service’ at all times. We pride ourselves on keeping our clients well informed in our everchanging marketplace. We became Accredited Buyer Representatives, ePRO® certified and we work with a real estate coach to further position us to provide our clients with the most uptodate real estate marketing data and trends. These traits have translated into a high rate of successful transactions for our clients and have consistently given our team a competitive edge over the competition.” HOW HAS THE JOB OF BEING A REALTOR CHANGED IN RECENT YEARS? “We hope clients understand the many hats we now wear as real estate agents. We no longer just sell houses; we are selling a brand and, ultimately, are operating as a sophisticated small business entity. We must be able to provide cutting-edge digital marketing, polished websites, captivating graphic design, staging expertise, project management for home repairs, a strong shoulder to lean on when times get tough, and that’s just to name a few.”
WHAT HAS BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER? Kathleen: “Having my daughter, Sloane, become a Realtor and working together with her as a team. Her generational perspective creates a dynamic team energy and balance, allowing us to better serve our clients’ interests in all respects.” Sloane: “In 2015 I was awarded the South Bay Association of Realtors Rookie of the Year Award. This has been the highlight of my career for two reasons: being recognized for my highly ethical standards, commitment to community involvement and playing an active role in association activities; and more importantly, being honored by my fellow peers and associates who voted for me. To be acknowledged by the people you work with day in and day out is the ultimate compliment anyone could hope for.” WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB? “Without a doubt, helping our clients achieve their objectives with real estate and otherwise is the best part of our jobs. It’s that good feeling you get when you close a transaction and you know you have been able to problem-solve in a positive and successful manner. It’s about the heart, the caring, going the extra mile and knowing that you made a beneficial difference in someone’s life. And the bonus is the new lifelong friendships that are created. We love what we do because we love working with people.”
MANHATTAN BEACH | 310-874-4106 | THECARTIERSANDERSTEAM.COM
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TERRY NIEMANN & KATHARINE MEIER CHADMAR’S RESIDENCES OF ROLLING HILLS COUNTRY CLUB
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erry Niemann and Katharine Meier are the sales team for the new customizable homes built by Chadmar, a private niche developer, within the gated community of Rolling Hills Country Club. The community’s grand opening was June 2018. Terry and Katharine, who are directors of sales and marketing for Chadmar, are both real estate brokers who have worked in various aspects of real estate marketing and sales and who both grew up in real estate. Katharine is the daughter of a real estate developer, and Terry’s family is also in real estate development. Chadmar is comprised of a truly local team. Katharine grew up in the South Bay and attended University of California, Santa Barbara. Terry attended University of Southern California. She moved to the South Bay right after college and has raised her family here. And CEO Chuck Lande grew up in Palos Verdes, and his mother still lives there. HOW DOES YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF AND EXPERIENCE IN THE SOUTH BAY BENEFIT CLIENTS? “Because we are locals, we understand the unique South Bay neighborhoods, schools, communities, charities, hospitals, restaurants and shopping. We live here, work here and play here, just like our clients.” WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SOUTH BAY NEIGHBORHOOD? “The Residences of Rolling Hills Country Club! There are so many fabulous neighborhoods throughout the South Bay, yet this is the South Bay’s only gated new home com
munity on a private golf course. It’s the new place to be and is a nice combination of the quiet, rural feel of Rolling Hills Estates with pretty city lights or golf course views, while being close to stores and shopping. The new, private country club and golf course opened January 2018, so it’s exciting to be a part of something brand new. This is really a unique lifestyle.”
HOW DO YOU ASSIST CLIENTS IN MAKING THE MORTGAGE APPLICATION PROCESS LESS DAUNTING? “We can introduce clients to our lender, who is one of the nicest people we know. We do encourage buyers to value existing relationships with lenders or other professionals, but we also have a fantastic project lender to make the process easy.”
GIVEN THE LOW INVENTORY IN THE SOUTH BAY, HOW DO YOU GO ABOUT SOURCING HOMES FOR BUYERS? “Luckily, Chadmar’s Residences of Rolling Hills Country Club still have new homes available that feature dramatic city lights or serene golf course views. Buyers tell us that this is the best combination of designing your own semi-custom home and having someone else build it. With the six different farmhouse and ranch-style floor plans, five different exterior designs and 18 color schemes, buyers have lots of choices. Plus they can have so much fun upgrading the interior finishes and fixtures. Families are excited about the newest high-tech options and being the very first to live in a house to make the home thoughtfully personal and special.”
HOW DO YOU CELEBRATE A SUCCESSFUL CLOSING? “We love celebrating with our clients, who become friends throughout the building process. We’ve sold 22 homes in a very short period of time.”
TELL US MORE ABOUT THE HOMES AT CHADMAR’S RESIDENCES. “We offer four-, five- and six-bedroom new homes ranging from 3,600 to 5,600 square feet. Our current price range is $2.5 million to $5 million. We also have a few custom lots available if buyers are interested in hiring their own architect and builder.”
HOW HAS THE JOB OF REALTOR CHANGED IN RECENT YEARS? “Buyers today are sophisticated, well-educated and savvy; they quickly access information online and compare choices. Social media can help illuminate areas or architecture that they hadn’t previously thought of, but it can also be intimidating or even overwhelming to people just starting to look for homes. Working together to help buyers find and create their dream home is intricate yet very rewarding. People appreciate hardworking professionals who help clarify issues and solve problems.” DOES THE CALIFORNIA HOUSING MARKET ACT AS PREDICTOR FOR THE REST OF THE COUNTRY? “South Bay real estate is as unique as its many neighborhoods. Buyers and sellers will always appreciate the beauty and climate of the South Bay, regardless of the housing market.”
15 CHANDLER RANCH ROAD, ROLLING HILLS ESTATES | 310-325-0786 | RHCCRESIDENCES.COM
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NEW AMERICAN FUNDING
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ew American Funding is a privately owned independent mortgage bank that services the residential mortgage market. Based in Southern California, New American Funding is a direct lender offering a wide variety of loan products—from conventional to jumbo to down payment assistance and first-time homebuyer programs. WHY SHOULD CLIENTS PLACE THEIR TRUST IN YOU? “We are almost exclusively a referral-based team. As such, most new clients come to us from a trusted source, and that trust is extended to us based on our past performance with our referral partner. As a team, we are the preferred lending partner for many of the top professionals in the South Bay, including Realtors, CPAs, business managers and financial advisors. Preferring to work in partnership with each client’s broader team of specialized advisors, this team approach ensures long-term financial goals are considered as part of the financing package. These relationships were earned one successful closing at a time and have allowed our team to rise to the top of the local lending landscape.” WHAT IS YOUR AREA OF EXPERTISE? “While New American Funding can effectively service the more routine loan requests, the NAF South Bay team has built a reputation on delivering solutions for the more complex loan file. These requests often come from self-employed clients who don’t fit the major retail banks’ rigid guidelines and need a more creative solution to their financing needs.”
WHAT MAKES NEW AMERICAN FUNDING THE BEST IN MORTGAGE? “Quite simply, we empower the area’s most skilled group of loan officers with the widest array of loan products on the market—all delivered with exceptional service and efficiency. We say ‘Yes!’ to more borrowers and have worked hard to build our reputation as the team to go to when others say ‘No.’ Consistently performing within all contractual timelines—even on the most challenging loan file—is the best gauge of a loan officer’s skillset and a company’s operational effectiveness.” HOW DOES YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF AND EXPERIENCE IN THE SOUTH BAY BENEFIT CLIENTS? “Being local is critical, and there is hardly a street in the South Bay where our team has not financed a home. This home team advantage can be the difference in a multiple-offer situation, as the listing agents know us, trust us and are confident that we will deliver on time. This often swings the deal to our clients over offers with out-ofarea lenders. Even our appraisers are local, which can be critical as subtle differences in each neighborhood can have a big impact on the home’s value. The clearest example of the importance of being local is that many agents will simply not consider an offer from an out-of-area lender without our team also vetting them and giving our blessing.”
DO YOU HAVE A PHILOSOPHY THAT GUIDES YOUR TEAM? “We never lose sight of the impact that we can have on the lives of our clients. From helping a young family get into their first home to helping a seasoned homeowner execute a complex investment strategy, our work has life-changing results and we are grateful to play such a critical role. That trust is never taken for granted.” WHAT ARE THE BEST REASONS TO CONSIDER A REFINANCE? “Even though we have been in a rising interest rate environment for a while now, mortgage rates are still very low by historical standards and we continue to see a robust refinance market. Most of the refinances are for a more specific reason. That can include converting an ARM to a fixed rate loan before rates go up further or taking money out for home renovations.” WHAT AREAS DO YOU SERVICE? “While we are licensed to do business in 48 states, the vast majority of our clients are in the South Bay. From our new space on Rosecrans, we proudly serve the local beach communities and surrounding cities.”
880 APOLLO STREET #329, EL SEGUNDO | 844-247-6883
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DARIN DERENZIS & MEREDITH JOHNSON VISTA SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
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ealtors Darin DeRenzis and Meredith Johnson help clients navigate the South Bay real estate market. Meredith has worked in real estate since 2007, starting in commercial sales. She transitioned to residential and joined Vista Sotheby’s International Realty in 2014. Darin has worked in the industry for 15 years. He joined Vista Sotheby’s in 2006 and became a partner in 2010. WHY SHOULD CLIENTS PLACE THEIR TRUST IN YOU? Meredith: “I’m human, and I’m present. This business is my world, not just a day job for me. It’s 24/7. I will work tirelessly and fight when necessary to make sure the home you want is yours.” HOW DOES YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF AND EXPERIENCE IN THE SOUTH BAY BENEFIT CLIENTS? Meredith: “I’ve been a resident of the South Bay for almost 10 years, in five houses and five different neighborhoods. Living near the beach is a lifestyle choice. After that, it’s about finding the right neighborhood for you.” Darin: “I was born and raised in Palos Verdes and have lived my entire adult life in Hermosa Beach. I understand what it means to live in the South Bay because I have had personal exposure to almost all aspects of it. You can’t teach the knowledge that comes with that experience, and that gives me credibility with my clients every day. In addition, my in-depth knowledge of both the Palos Verdes market and the Beach Cities market is unique.”
HOW HAS THE JOB OF BEING A REALTOR CHANGED IN RECENT YEARS? Darin: “As in all aspects of our lives, technology is rapidly changing the way that we do business. The good news is that Sotheby’s International Realty keeps us on the forefront of that technology, and that helps us market homes locally and internationally on a level that exceeds all of our competitors. That being said, this is still a people business—especially in the luxury space. My clients are very successful people, and they demand that I have as much expertise in my business as they do in theirs.” WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE SOUTH BAY NEIGHBORHOOD? Meredith: “I have really fallen in love with South Redondo Beach.” Darin: “My heart will always be in North Hermosa.” HOW DO YOU HELP A CLIENT DEAL WITH STRESS? Darin: “It’s been said that part of our job as Realtors is as a therapist and as a couple’s counselor. That is very true, and I love it. I think the fact that I have become good friends with the majority of my clients speaks for itself and the fact that I have helped them successfully navigate through the stress.” HOW DO YOU ASSIST CLIENTS IN MAKING THE MORTGAGE APPLICATION PROCESS LESS DAUNTING? Meredith: “Connecting my clients with the lender that is best suited to meet their needs is the first step. There are numerous lenders, each with their strengths and aggressive
lending availability. The mortgage process is always daunting, but I find that compatibility helps ease the strain of the information collection process.” DOES THE CALIFORNIA HOUSING MARKET ACT AS PREDICTOR FOR THE REST OF THE COUNTRY? Darin: “I don’t believe that it is. California is its own entity. The economic diversity and wealth is unmatched, and that is reflected in the diversity of the housing market.” GIVEN THE LOW INVENTORY HERE, HOW DO YOU GO ABOUT SOURCING HOMES FOR BUYERS? Meredith: “Off-market knowledge is the most important part. Given the low inventory, providing my clients with even a week’s head start to look at and evaluate an opportunity is critical. The past market has kept my clients in the passenger seat, feeling like they have limited time to react before there are multiple offers. Being ahead of the market is everything.” Darin: “More than 20% of real estate transactions in these markets happen off the MLS. It is critical to know what inventory is coming—and just as critical to know what inventory has sold so that pricing strategies can be tweaked as the market goes up, cools down and heats back up again. The only way to get all of that information is through constant proactive networking and research. It is how I spend the majority of my day. Luckily we have been able to make Vista Sotheby’s a networking machine. It helps make my job easier every day.”
2501 N. SEPULVEDA #200, MANHATTAN BEACH 310-600-7973 | MEREDITHLJOHNSON.COM | 310-418-62100 | DARINDERENZIS.COM
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CARLA B. HOFFMAN VISTA | SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
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arla Hoffman grew up in Southern California and has been in the South Bay for almost 30 years. She and her husband raised three sons in the Manhattan Beach school system and at Vistamar School. Prior to joining Vista Sotheby’s International Realty, Carla worked as a trusts and estates attorney representing individuals and families. WHY SHOULD CLIENTS PLACE THEIR TRUST IN YOU? “My legal background provides me with the knowledge and experience to navigate complex real estate negotiations, and as an attorney I adhere to a higher ethical standard professionally and personally—including in representing my real estate clients.” HOW DOES YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF AND EXPERIENCE IN THE SOUTH BAY BENEFIT CLIENTS? “As a native of California and a resident of the South Bay for almost 30 years, I have extensive knowledge of the different South Bay communities and market trends. This knowledge has proven helpful to my clients in selecting the perfect area in which to purchase a home.” WHAT HAS BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER? “The highlight of my career is providing support to my clients during a time that can be both exciting and stressful.” HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH CLIENT STRESS? “I understand that a home purchase is often the largest and most important investment decision a client will make. Such a purchase or sale is often an emotional event. My background as a trusts and estates attorney has provided me with extensive experience negotiating and navigating both the emotional and financial side of real estate decisions.” GIVEN THE LOW INVENTORY HERE, HOW DO YOU GO ABOUT SOURCING HOMES FOR BUYERS? “As a long-time resident of Manhattan Beach and with deep connections to the community, I have a large professional and personal network that provides me with early insight into homes that will be hitting the market. I keep in constant communication with my clients so I can provide them with a jump on available homes.” HOW DO YOU GIVE BACK TO YOUR COMMUNITY? “I give back through giving to Vistamar School, donating blood with American Red Cross, as well as giving to my religious institutions, including Congregation Tikvat Jacob.” CAL DRE #01993942
2501 N. SEPULVEDA BLVD., MANHATTAN BEACH | 310-386-0697 | CARLAHOFFMAN.COM
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LISA Y. LEVIN STRAND HILL | CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE
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isa Levin has worked in the real estate industry for more than 25 years. She started her career as a marketing executive for global development company Forest City Enterprises and then transitioned into leasing, with highprofile projects in Cleveland, Washington DC, Pittsburgh and Las Vegas. She moved to Los Angeles in 2000 and launched her residential real estate business. Lisa joined Strand Hill | Christies International Real Estate in January. WHAT IS UNIQUE TO YOUR BUSINESS? “I have developed strategic relationships with many international companies, local professional sports teams and high-profile executives who are referred to me when they are relocating to Southern California. I draw on my extensive contacts and vast experience to help clients make their move in or out of our area seamless.” HOW HAS THE JOB OF BEING A REALTOR CHANGED IN RECENT YEARS? “Being a Realtor in 2019 involves providing 360 support to all aspects of the home buying, selling or rental experience. This often includes providing trusted relationships with builders, repairs services, movers, organizers/designers, lenders, doctors, schools and more to ensure my client truly receives total support throughout their transaction and transition.” HOW DO YOU STAY COMPETITIVE IN YOUR INDUSTRY? “I am proud to have recently joined Strand Hill | Christie’s, as I believe they offer the best networking and support services in the industry. I also am a member of an elite multi-agency networking group that provides leads on pocket listings and properties before they come to market. Additionally, in my travels I visit with other agencies around the world to learn about how they are being innovative, and I bring this knowledge home and put it to good use for my clients.”
HOW DO YOU HELP CLIENTS DEAL WITH STRESS? “Buying or selling a property is a very important financial and often emotional decision, and being available at all times throughout the process is critical. Hopefully this helps my clients feel that they are making the best decision. This is why I am proud of my reputation as the Trusted Realtor.” HOW DO YOU GIVE BACK TO YOUR COMMUNITY? “I like to give back where I can see the results, especially when it helps enhance the community. Therefore I contribute to local schools and religious institutions. I am also proud of my ongoing support of our scholastic athletic programs.”
1131 MORNINGSIDE DRIVE, MANHATTAN BEACH | 310-463-9118 | LISALEVIN.COM
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SERENE SULPOR & BARRY SULPOR STRAND HILL | CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE
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ealtors Serene Sulpor and Barry Sulpor have more than 30 years of experience working in real estate. Originally from Chicago, the two met in college in Los Angeles and moved to Manhattan Beach shortly after their daughters were born. Serene has a master’s degree in negotiation, which is beneficial to clients during a transaction; Barry previously worked as a marketing director for IBM and Xerox and has extensive experience in online and print media marketing. WHAT’S YOUR #1 TOOL FOR MARKETING YOUR BUSINESS? Barry: “Referrals from clients, friends and neighbors are our main pipeline for new listings and buyer opportunities. In addition, homeowners 55 and older often contact us to take advantage of the property tax relief benefits available through California Proposition 60, which is often the
deciding factor that enables a homeowner to make a change.” Serene: “We also have a network of investors and builders who look to us to find homeowners who want to sell in an all-cash ‘as-is’ purchase of their older homes. These homes are later renovated or built out for resale. We have two brand new Manhattan Beach homes coming on the market soon as a result of these relationships. Whatever the particular goals are in selling or buying a home, clients tell us they like working with us because we truly listen and care about their needs.” WHY DO YOU BRAND YOURSELVES AS “THE MATCHMAKERS”? “We truly feel a Realtor is not a salesperson; they are a matchmaker. We match sellers and buyers worldwide and introduce people to homes until they fall in love with one. We take pride in doing that every day.”
WHAT TRENDS DO YOU FORESEE FOR THE 2019 REAL ESTATE MARKET IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA? Barry: “Reporters for The Los Angeles Times and other media often contact us for our opinion on real estate trends in the South Bay. We tell them after years of home prices surging in the Beach Cities, it’s now beginning to reflect a more conventional market as a result of rising interest rates, among other factors.” Serene: “There is still a limited supply of homes for sale in most Beach City neighborhoods, so it remains an excellent market for sellers. And buyers are flocking to the South Bay because of our award-winning schools, beach lifestyle and the other amenities families want in a community. These factors create a positive and sustainable real estate market for everyone.”
1131 MORNINGSIDE DRIVE, MANHATTAN BEACH | 310-991-2994 | SB.BEACHHOMES@GMAIL.COM
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MOLLY HOBIN WILLIAMS PRESIDENT & CEO | THE HOBIN COMPANY
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olly Hobin Williams grew up in a real estate family. Her great-grandfather founded The Hobin Company in 1925, and Molly worked there during high school and college. After graduating from UCLA, she spent 24 years working in the commercial real estate industry in Los Angeles before getting her brokers license and re-launching The Hobin Company in 2010. The firm has two offices: Manhattan Beach and Palm Desert. WHY SHOULD CLIENTS PLACE THEIR TRUST IN YOU? “I am a 37-year resident of Manhattan Beach and truly love living in the South Bay. Coming from a commercial real estate background has helped me differentiate myself from other agents. This business is based on relationships, and fortunately the majority of my clients come from referrals from past clients and friends and family as well as my large network of commercial brokers.” GIVEN THE LOW INVENTORY HERE, HOW DO YOU SOURCE HOMES FOR BUYERS? “I have a great networking group consisting of 15 other agents from different companies. I also pride myself on scouring high and low for that perfect property once my clients give me their requirement and their ideal wish list. Fortunately, through my extensive social and broker networks, I have been successful at finding properties for my clients that are off-market or will be coming on the market soon.” WHAT SETS YOU APART FROM YOUR COMPETITION? “The Hobin Company is a boutique brokerage firm, and we pride ourselves in providing exceptional service and always trying to exceed our client’s expectations. We go above and beyond to make the entire home-buying process as easy and painless as possible, as well as enjoyable and fun. We have a website and blog called JustaskMolly.com. It has a list of our favorite local vendors and hot spots and a calendar of upcoming events. Our clients who are new to the South Bay love it and use it regularly. Another differentiator is the fact that we have a Palm Desert office with two full-time agents. There are a lot of people living in the South Bay who own vacation homes in Palm Desert and vice versa, so we can help if someone is looking to buy a golf retreat in the desert or a beach house in the South Bay.”
904 MANHATTAN AVE. #3, MANHATTAN BEACH | 310-925-2529 | THEHOBINCOMPANY.COM
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R E A L E STAT E & M O RTG AG E
L to R: Shima Razipour, Alyssandra Bassanelli, Poul Erik Norgaard, Meg Puccinelli, Michelle Nishide, Mora Sepehrnia, Tadashi Kondo, Chrissy Karasavas, Victoria Brown, Lorena Andrade, Noelle Hofmann
THE KONDO GROUP WITH MOVOTO REAL ESTATE
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he Kondo Group is a team within Movoto Real Estate that recently opened a new office in Rolling Hills Estates. The team’s 11 agents have a combined 60 years of experience in the real estate, mortgage and architecture industries. WHY SHOULD CLIENTS PLACE THEIR TRUST IN YOU? “We value the needs and wishes of our clients above all else. We take pride in our business and treat all of our clients like family. We want them to feel that they can come to us with any questions. Our team will facilitate all aspects of a sale—from fixing up their home and even after the moving day.” HOW DO YOU DEAL HELP CLIENTS DEAL WITH STRESS? “We make sure our clients know exactly what
to expect. Our team has a system to ensure our clients are well informed throughout a transaction, providing them with a guide and timeline of all events. We also do our best to prevent issues from arising by anticipating all possible problems and solutions. We know that buying and selling is stressful, so we do the legwork for clients and minimize the work they need to put in.” WHAT MAKES YOUR FIRM DIFFERENT? “The real estate market is changing, and Movoto Real Estate is at the forefront of technology. Movoto is a new brokerage that is positioned to be a dominant player. They’re consumer-focused with agent efficiency in mind; Movoto’s tool include a home-search site and an app platform for consumers. For agents, Movoto provides lead-generation and organization
technology. Consumer behavior has changed and now starts online for the home search. With Movoto’s national reach, we are able to service our clients with the best possible exposure, information and service. We love being with a company that can make our daily tasks easier so that we can focus on our clients’ needs.” HOW DOES YOUR TEAM GIVE BACK? “Our agents are deeply involved in our community and industry and are part of organizations such as Military Relocation Services, the Asian Real Estate Association of America, and Toastmasters International. We recently put on a holiday toy drive, donating more than 150 toys to Toys for Tots. Being part of different organizations gives us the power in creating positive change that will benefit our communities, families and friends.”
445 SILVER SPUR RD., ROLLING HILLS ESTATES | 310-567-8790 | THEKONDOGROUP.COM
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FRANK KOSTRENCICH & MICHAEL MARDESICH C2 FINANCIAL – SOUTH BAY
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enior loan advisor Frank Kostrencich has worked in the residential mortgage industry since 1995, and broker Michael Mardesich has been in the industry since 1988. They both partnered with C2 Financial in 2007 and specialize in the latest residential and commercial loans and reverse mortgages. Mike and Frank were both born and raised in the South Bay. They and their families lead an active South Bay lifestyle, enjoying volleyball, mountain biking, surfing and stand-up paddleboarding. Frank and his wife, Karen, live in Rancho Palos Verdes with their four daughters, and Mike is raising his daughter and two sons in the Hollywood Riviera. WHAT MAKES YOU THE BEST IN MORTGAGE? “Every day we get to interact with people who are entrusting us with one of the biggest financial decisions of their life. Helping our clients understand and navigate the sometimes arduous process of obtaining a mortgage is always a rewarding experience. Our borrowers trust us as their mortgage advisor, and we do not take that responsibility lightly. We do what is in the best interest for our client—not what is best for our pocketbook, as some other brokers have done. We know by doing this, we not only are doing what is morally and ethically right, but we know this will result in our borrowers referring us to additional clients.” HOW DOES WHERE YOU LIVE IMPACT YOUR WORK? “We have personal connections to almost all of our clients. Because we work on a referral basis, our clients are friends or friends of friends. The biggest compliment we can receive is a referral for a job well done.” HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH VOLATILITY IN THE MARKET? “We see interest rates starting to rise closer to ‘traditional norms’ with more volatility in the market. People shouldn’t be frightened by rising rates, as it is a sign of a strong economy. It may slow down the growth in home values slightly, but the overall trend is positive. We see improved credit availability and an influx of new mortgage products that will help consumers with greater options to combat the higher rates.” SHARE A BIT ABOUT C2 FINANCIAL—WHAT MAKES YOUR FIRM NOTEWORTHY? “Our partnership with the largest wholesale lender in the U.S. helps us provide the lowest rates to our clients and the ability to close loans in as fast as 10 days.” BRE #01821025 (C2) / 01024274 (Frank) / 01053119 (Michael) NMLS# 135622 (C2) / 238594 (Frank) / 242591 (Michael)
304 VISTA DEL MAR, SUITE E, REDONDO BEACH | 310-697-3018 | LOANS4SOCAL.COM
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HARCOURTS HUNTER MASON REALTY
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arcourts Hunter Mason Realty is a full-service real estate firm offering a wide range of services, including sales, leasing, property management and non-distressed real estate auctions. After years of selling real estate as an agent, Courtney Self wanted more of a challenge, so she opened her own firm in 2010. She and her husband, Tony Self, named the agency Hunter Mason Realty, after their two sons. They affiliated with Harcourts in 2017. WHAT HAS BEEN A HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER? “Opening our own brokerage in 2010. There were more challenges than we anticipated, but it was also exciting and well worth the investment of time and money.” HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH CLIENT STRESS? “Communication is key to reducing our clients’ stress. For example, when helping our sellers, we follow up with every agent and buyer that has come through the property for feedback on price, condition and whether or not they are submitting an offer and share that feedback with our clients.” WHAT IS YOUR AREA OF EXPERTISE? “We offer a new approach to real estate with our auction process. Tony is a licensed auctioneer and has sold close to 5,000 homes using auction. We feel this is a great way to get a home sold, and it’s the main reason we purchased our Harcourts franchise in 2017. Harcourts has been selling homes with the non-distressed auction process since 1888. Additionally, we saw the shift in the market coming and wanted to offer something that would get homes sold and also set our company apart from other agencies. The auction process is much more labor intensive for us as a listing agent, but it’s more convenient for sellers and, more importantly, it offers a better opportunity to get our clients homes sold for more money and on their timetable. And it’s more transparent for buyers and agents.” HOW DO YOU GIVE BACK TO YOUR COMMUNITY? “Tony is the Palos Verdes Association of Realtors 2019 president. Courtney has been involved with Women’s Council of Realtors as 2018 president and serves on committees at the South Bay Association of Realtors. In addition, we give to local charities, and Tony is very involved with our sons’ Boy Scout troop.” DRE #01229263 (Courtney) | DRE #01906720 (Tony)
1617 S. PACIFIC COAST HWY., SUITE E, REDONDO BEACH | 310-350-6205 AUCTIONISANOPTION.COM | COURTNEY@HUNTERMASON.COM | TONY@HUNTERMASON.COM
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DAN O’CONNOR O’CONNOR PROPERTY | STRAND HILL | CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE
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an O’Connor and his team at O’Connor Property, affiliated with Strand Hill | Christie’s, advise clients on buying and selling homes and income property in the South Bay. Dan also owns a property management company, CPI Beach Properties, and consults on “value add” projects for clients’ properties. Dan is in his 16th year working as a real estate agent. WHAT ARE YOUR MOST IMPORTANT SKILLS? “My knowledge and my work ethic. Those are the biggest assets an agent can provide. Everyone is seeking the most up-to-date, inside information to make their decisions, and that is what I provide for my clients. I work hard for my clients. My belief is that hard work pays off in the end.” WHAT SPECIALTY SERVICES DO YOU OFFER? “I offer my clients personal service, no matter what the price range. If you’re my client, I want you to feel special and I want the process to be as smooth as possible. I enjoy helping clients buy the right investment properties and also provide them with excellent property management service to ensure they attain the maximum benefit from their investment.” HOW DOES WHERE YOU LIVE COME INTO PLAY WITH YOUR JOB? “I grew up in the South Bay; I know this area better than most people. I see the trends of where it’s going. This place has so much to offer, and I show that to my clients.” DO YOU HAVE A PHILOSOPHY WHEN IT COMES TO A CODE OF ETHICS? “Yes, my reputation means so much to me. I have to work together with all kinds of people. It’s not always easy, but if people can trust that ultimately you will do the right thing for them, it goes a long way. Sometimes you lose out on things because you do the right thing or give the right advice, but more often than not you benefit from having a code and a good reputation.” WHO HAS BEEN YOUR PROFESSIONAL ROLE MODEL? “My mom. She is an amazing example of how to make something out of nothing. She showed me what hard work and dedication to your clients can do for your own personal success. I am so grateful to her.”
3201 MANHATTAN AVENUE, HERMOSA BEACH | 310-261-7756 | OCONNORPROPERTY.COM
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GEORGE ROSENKRANZ, JD THE ROSENKRANZ | FRIEDMAN GROUP
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he Rosenkranz|Friedman Group is a top-producing, fullservice real estate team of experienced professionals at Keller Williams dedicated to providing exceptional service while helping clients achieve their real estate goals.
WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE POTENTIAL CLIENTS TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? “We are in this together—before, during and after the transaction. Our service does not end with the close of escrow. Every step of the way we protect your interests and your pocketbook!” HOW DO YOU DISTINGUISH YOURSELF FROM THE COMPETITION? “We have created our multigenerational, multicultural marketing platform that utilizes cutting-edge technologies alongside traditionally successful marketing methods to consistently reach local, regional and global consumers. We also distinguish ourselves by being proactive and incredibly responsive. We are passionate about real estate, so we constantly study the market and network with other professionals to find great opportunities for our clients. We put ourselves in our clients’ shoes to anticipate their needs and questions. This translates into a high level of engagement and hands-on involvement, both day and night.” HOW DO YOU REMAIN TRUE TO YOURSELF AND FIND YOUR OWN VOICE IN YOUR INDUSTRY? “We have a very clear vision of how to best serve our clients and what is necessary to achieve that goal. We have established eight Core Values—including open and honest communication. Our Core Values ensure that everyone in our group provides exceptional service consistent with our vision.” HOW IMPORTANT IS THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN YOU AND YOUR CLIENTS? “Since selling and buying homes is often a highly personal and emotional decision, creating strong relationships with our clients is critical to achieving successful outcomes. A keen understanding and awareness of our clients’ preferences and motivations enables us to provide consistently exceptional service and marketing.” WHAT’S MOST REWARDING ABOUT YOUR WORK? “Being able to use our knowledge and experience to take the stress out of the home selling or buying process. We are very protective of our clients’ interests.”
550 DEEP VALLEY DRIVE, SUITE 359, ROLLING HILLS ESTATES 310-717-8767 | GEORGE@GEORGESELLSTHESOUTHBAY.COM | THERFGROUP.COM
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C R E AT I N G V I D E O F O R YO U R L I S T I N G S I S O N LY E X P E N S I V E I F N O O N E I S WAT C H I N G . H o m e F i l m s i s t h e o n l y f u l l y i n t e g r a t e d , r e a l e s t a t e v i d e o p ro d u c t i o n a n d d i g i t a l distribution package. Our talented filmmaking team artistically tells the story of w h a t m a k e s yo u r l i s t i n g u n i q u e . A n d o u r t a r g e t e d d i g i t a l d i s t r i b u t i o n e n s u r e s t h a t t h e r i g h t p o t e n t i a l b u y e r s a r e s e e i n g yo u r p ro p e r t y i n t h e m o s t b e a u t i f u l l i g h t .
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Dramatic one-of-a-kind estate in Rolling Hills. Panoramic views, over 7900 square feet on over 4.5 acres, a spectacular courtyard and entrance, pool and spa, guest quarters, media room, wine cellar, gym, 136 SOUTHBAY | FEBRUARY/MARCH 2019 sports court and so much more! $8,495,000
real estate
GORGEOUS CONTEMPORARY RANCH BEHIND THE GATES OF ROLLING HILLS!
Enjoy 1.2 acres featuring 4 beds, 4.5 baths, over 4,000 sq. ft. of living space. This home was built for entertaining guests with an outdoor kitchen, pool and grass lawn overlooking panoramic canyon & city light views. $2,995,000 www.ChuckwagonRollingHills.com Gordon Inman & Keith Kelley BRE#01501084 BRE#01810798 310.944.5554 | www.InmanTeam.com
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HE T ON RKET MA
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COUNTRY CLUB LIVING ON PRESTIGIOUS PALOS VERDES PENINSULA Hundreds of personalization options and the highest quality building products are just part of the appeal of these gorgeous homes in Rolling Hills Estates. EDITED BY LAURA L. WATTS PHOTOGRAPHED BY NICK CARVER & CHRIS MAYER
T
oll Brothers at Rolling Hills Country Club offers exquisite homes with premium features, quality craftsmanship and views of fairways, Downtown L.A. and the San Gabriel Mountains. These estate-sized, single-family, one- and twostory homes are set on the new Rolling Hills Country Club Golf Course on prestigious Palos Verdes Peninsula—conveniently located near recreational activities, shopping, dining, public parks and miles of equestrian trails. Golf course members have exclusive access to a state-ofthe-art course and practice facilities as well as a golf academy. The Country Club Course also includes a driving range, short game practice area, practice putting green and indoor facility. Rolling Hills Country Club features a newly designed, 70,000square-foot clubhouse that offers both fine and casual dining, an outdoor lounge with gorgeous views, high-end spa with massage rooms, tennis courts, aquatic center, kids club and more. Residents enjoy easy access to freeways, employment centers and the Los Angeles International Airport—just 18 miles away. The open-concept home designs offer hundreds of personalization options and the highest quality building products. Home sizes range from 4,500 to 4,900 square feet with four
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to six bedrooms and three- to four-car garages. Additional features include luxury outdoor living spaces, courtyard-style driveways and the option of single-story living. This neighborhood is located in the top-rated Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District. Excellent private schools, including Chadwick, Rolling Hills Country Day School and Rolling Hills Preparatory School, are located nearby. Since home is the centerpiece of how you spend your time, residents will be pleased to discover a plethora of pastimes in the area. Recreation activities like golfing, horseback riding, hiking, sailing, fishing, whale watching and water sports satisfy the most active of lifestyles, while dining options and cultural offerings abound in Rancho Palos Verdes. For avid boaters, you can moor your boat at one of several marinas in San Pedro. Toll Brothers offers an in-house architectural firm with LEEDcertified architects who strive to design beautiful homes in ways that reduce environmental impact and provide energy savings. The firm also features home security and automation solutions, a design studio and a mortgage company. For more than 50 years, Toll Brothers has prided itself on building more than homes; they build communities in picturesque settings where luxury meets convenience and where neighbors become lifelong friends. Their innovative home building system marries efficient construction with extensive luxury personalization. This means it’s easy for clients to tailor their new home to enhance their lifestyle. Call today to schedule a private tour!
Toll Brothers at Rolling Hills Country Club 11 Phillips Ranch Road, Rolling Hills Estates From $3 million Mariana Delsindico & Jennifer Huff California DRE #01118087, #01969136 TollBrothersRHCC.com 310-997-9199
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ON THE MARKET
WATC H T H E F I L M AT SOUTHBAY.GOLDENSTATE.IS
EPISODE 4: Team Effort A few of the South Bay’s finest come together to build a family’s dream home in Palos Verdes.
presented by a film series by
REDONDO BEACH TOWN HOME 3 BEDS I 3 BATHS I 2,486 SQ. FT. I $1,069,000
RICHARD HAYNES Real Estate Broker 310.379.1724 richard@manhattanpacific.com DRE: 01779425
IT’S YOUR SOUTH BAY. OWN IT.
M a n h a t t a n P a c i f i c R e a l t y. c o m 310.379.1724
DRE: 01909107
YOUR CALIFORNIA DREAM In the year 1906 Hermosa Beach’s first election
Castle Pre-School. Though the city landscape
be truly appreciated in person. Currently used
for city officers was held. In 1907 the city received
around it has a vastly different look, this home
as rental property, this South Hermosa Beach
its Charter from the state of California and it was
still lies directly in front of the boundless Pacific
duplex (zoned R3) offers its new investor a lot
also in this year that 44 Strand came to life. If
Ocean. The opportunity for a new owner to carry
& a half upon which to build your dream home,
these walls could speak they would tell the story
on the legacy of 44 Strand is now available.
option to build two units or the opportunity
of seven generations of family who have lived in
Nestled between the Hermosa Beach Pier and
to remodel the existing property and manage
this home. Its occupants served as city attorney,
the Redondo Beach Marina, with 45’ of ocean
rentals along The Strand – where units command
municipal judge and owner/director of the Sand
frontage, its distinction and caliber can only
the highest rental rates in the South Bay.
MEREDITH L JOHNSON REALTOR®, DRE# 01907722
meredith.johnson@vistasir.com | 310.600.7973 | meredithljohnson.com
Our neighborhood, your home. DARIN DERENZIS
310.418.6210 CalBRE# 01760239 darin.derenzis@vistasir.com
215 Peck, Manhattan Beach | $2,950,000
THE VILLAS AT TERRANEA An exclusive collection of exquisite whole-ownership seaside second homes on the Palos Verdes Peninsula.
Become one of the privileged few to call Terranea a personal seaside sanctuary for every season. With services like a personal 24-hour Owner’s Concierge, Spa privileges, priority dining reservations and more, owning at Terranea means everything is taken care of. Choose from 2, 3 and 4-bedroom Ocean Golf Villas, each with sweeping ocean and sunset views and gracious outdoor spaces—perfect for a lifetime of entertaining family, friends and colleagues.
Call 424-275-5750
PRICING FROM $1,600,000 - $3,200,000
T ERRANEA R EAL E STATE.COM
Only 3 developer owned villas available for sale Ask about resales and 1031 exchanges
100 Terranea way, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
LDD LONG POINT MANAGEMENT, INC. BRE LICENSE #1774333
2018 Sold Properties
Active Properties
LILY LIANG
+1 310 373 3333 | lily@lilyliang.com | www.lilyliang.com 550 Silver Spur Road, Suite 240, Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90274 BRE# 00837794
HOME TO THE FINEST COLLECTION OF REAL ESTATE EXPERTS IN THE SOUTH BAY.
STRANDHILL.COM
STRAND HILL | CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE LICENSE #01968431. THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, SQUARE FOOTAGE AND/OR ACREAGE, HAS BEEN PROVIDED BY VARIOUS SOURCES WHICH MAY INCLUDE THE SELLER, PUBLIC RECORDS, THE MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE OR OTHER SOURCES. BROKER HAS NOT AND WILL NOT INVESTIGATE OR VERIFY THE ACCURACY OF THIS INFORMATION.
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T US
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E IST
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826 15th Street, Hermosa Beach Priced at $1,799,000 This 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom home has spectacular ocean views and is just moments from the trendy shops and restaurants of Pier Avenue. Sun-drenched rooms showcase wide plank wood floors, stone surfaces and custom iron work, creating a luxury seaside retreat. The kitchen will inspire any home chef with stainless steel appliances, rich cabinetry, quartz counters and an island for casual dining. The outdoor living space takes advantage of the coastal views and stunning sunsets.
310/938-9167 cariandbritt.com BRITT: BRE# 01799654 CARI: BRE# 00850678
YOU GET TO DECIDE THE LEGACY YOU LEAVE... As a trusted real estate professional, I have the honor of helping build our clients’ family legacies. Whether it is the purchase of a family home, or the successful sale of a family asset, my goal is to help create a lasting legacy for those I serve. But it goes beyond the material world. It’s the lives we live, and the memories we create that define legacy. At Kyle Daniels Real Estate, I have partnered with 1% FOR THE PLANET to leave a legacy for future generations by helping to preserve the natural beauty that so many of us—and those before us—enjoy. 1% of our revenues from real estate sales will be given to local organizations dedicated to preserving our natural environment.
Pictured: 1918 The Strand Sold December 2018 for $6.8M. Nearly a 100X gain for our clients.
KYLE DANIELS REALTOR®, DRE# 01843670
kyle.daniels@vistasir.com 310.483.3998 Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated.
kyledanielsrealestate.com
Cape Cod Beauty • Manhattan Beach • Outstanding Craftsmanship built by Ken Johnson Development • Designed by Architect Doug Leach • Stunning finishes by L’Esperance Design
1901 Palm Avenue $5,500,000
RESORT-STYLE LIVING A lifestyle home with abundant views in a coveted location of Manhattan Beach $7,995,000 WWW.1215FISHER.COM
You will love this 2018 Engaging Cape Cod situated on a highly desirable corner lot filled with abundant natural light. Extensive use of Neolith Estatuario Quartz, Pietra Grey Marble, Calcutta Splenda Marble, Basalto Stone, Ice Cube Marble, hexagon tiles, mirrored tiles, stacked stone, flagstone and french white oak hardwood floors. Approx. 4,800 sq. ft, 5,061 sq ft. lot, large office/ 2nd living room with cement tiled fireplace and a grand balcony, 5 full bathrooms all ensuite, 2 powder rooms, 3 stop wood paneled elevator, Epicurean Kitchen with Wolf, Subzero and Bosch appliances, pot filler, steam oven and microwave oven. Kitchen has a built in desk with floating shelves, a breakfast nook, a walk-in pantry, a massive Neolith Estatuario Quartz Island with 2 sinks and 2 Bosch dishwashers. Family room has coffered beamed ceilings, a substantial bricked fireplace, a 12 foot La Cantina bi-fold door leading to the patio with a herringbone laid tile floor, an electric ceiling heater, a Peninsula cut from Basalto Stone slab with a Lynx barbeque grill, U-line refrigerator, a deep sink, built-in steel trash unit, double steel storage drawers and access door. Luxurious Master bedroom has tongue and groove vaulted ceilings, a marble tiled fireplace, built-ins, a herringbone tiled deck, Calcutta Splendor Marble master bath with a steeping tub, two vanities, a built-in linen closet and a custom wood walk in closet includes a peninsula with velvet lined jewelry and watch showcase drawers and dresser. Large laundry room with sink and storage. The large Basement was built for entertaining with a full bar kitchen, a Fisher-Paykel single drawer dishwasher, glass displays and a fridge with ice maker, a chilled wine room, a powder room and a guest bedroom. Audio Visual System is a Cat 5 fully prewired surround system in family room and basement with a home theatre pre-wire for projection and drop down screen. Speakers in kitchen, patio, master bedroom and first floor office/ 2nd living room. 3 zone heating and air conditioning, fully functional alarm system with optional outside camera locations. 3-car Garage is wired for electric vehicles on each side. Garage has speckled grey epoxy floor and a convenient built-in sink www.1901Palm.com
Please call John and Kerry for viewing! JOHN CHUKA 310.990.1110 JChuka@aol.com BRE# 00766132
KERRY DAWSON 310.753.5537 KerryLDawson@aol.com BRE# 01024016
Your Mortgage Your Terms Loans to $15 Million
the
SOUTH BAY’S LENDER OF CHOICE
Unlimited cash out Local appraisers FICO down to 600 Creative solutions for Self-Employed borrowers Business funds allowed for down payment and reserves Non-occupying co-borrowers allowed Interest Only for investment properties RSU income allowed
SOUTH BAY BRANCH 880 Apollo Avenue #329, El Segundo CA 90245
844-247-6883 DAVID GENTRY
Branch Manager NMLS #243989
Discover a mortgage team that provides the service you deserve. Discover a mortgage team that has the right loan product to fit your specific needs.
ERIC FORMILLER
Branch Manager NMLS #485383
Licensed by the Department of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act. NMLS ID#6606. Subject to borrower and property qualifications. Not all applicants will qualify. Terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. Corporate Phoe (800) 450-2010. 10/2018.
Discover New American Funding.
Eastfield Drive, Rolling Hills This 4,470 sq. ft home is nestled on a huge, fully usable 1.3 acre lot. Enjoy this remodeled home, featuring 6 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, pool with fire-pit and a 3-stall barn with riding ring!
PRICE REDUCTION $2,950,000 www.EastfieldRollingHills.com
The Inman Team www.InmanTeam.com
Gordon Inman 310.936.1979
KEIth KEllEy 310.944.5554
BrE #01501084
BrE #01810798
last word
Camera to Canvas Southbay photographer Shane O’Donnell branches out and brushes with a new art medium. As both a photographer and a painter, Shane is inspired by Americana— like vintage signs and objects with an aging patina. “The rough bits caused by weather and age excite me artistically,” he shares, “like the old motel signs and movie marquees. They are the visual history of a bygone era … colorful and showy, full of life and sometimes a bit worse for wear.” Shane added to his painting portfolio his take on the iconic Warner Grand Theatre in San Pedro. “I have always admired the art of painting, and I feel that photographs of these signs seem flat and not interesting enough to share the enthusiasm I feel for them. So I decided to paint them. They are a noticing … a pseudo-realistic impression of what was once glimmering, shining and welcoming.” ■ Warner Grand, 18”x 24“ acrylic on canvas. To see more of Shane’s work, go to theshanegallery.com.
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Your kitchen has no limits. Neither do these savings.
Save up to $5,000 or more with 10% off Miele kitchen packages* Offer Ends April 30, 2019 *Savings equal to 10% of total purchase. Applicable to qualifying packages only. See store for details.
Agoura Hills 30621 Canwood St. 818.991.8846
Moorpark 14349 White Sage Rd. 805.222.1380
Santa Barbara 3920 State St. 805.898.9883
Oxnard 887 Ventura Blvd. 805.278.0388
www.wdcappliances.com
Torrance 20901 Hawthorne Blvd. 310.802.6380
THE HUNT CANCER INSTITUTE OFFERS THE LATEST ADVANCEMENTS IN CANCER CARE AND RESEARCH. T h ro u g h o u r a ff i l i a t i o n w i t h C e d a r s - S i n a i , S o u t h B a y residents will now have expanded access to clinical trials of promising new cancer treatments and can receive them here in their own community at Torrance Memorial. Learn more at TorranceMemorial.org/Cancer
We Fight Cancer One Breakthrough At a Time
Torrance Memorial is now part of Cedars-Sinai’s extensive cancer clinical trials program.