2021

*PLAYA PEOPLE – MEET ZOEY: WOULD YOU RATHER…

· Would you rather go into the past and meet your ancestors or go into the future and meet your great-great grandchildren? THE FUTURE. WHAT IS DONE IS DONE.

· Would you rather have more time or more money? LOTS MORE MONEY.

· Would you rather have a rewind button or a pause button on your life? REWIND. THIS WORLD SUCKS.

· Would you rather be able to talk with the animals or speak all foreign languages? I LOVE ALL ANIMALS AND HATE MOST PEOPLE.

· Would you rather win the lottery or live twice as long? A LOTTERY WORTH A MILLION DOLLARS

· Would you feel worse if no one showed up to your wedding or to your funeral? I AM NEVER GOING TO BE STUPID ENOUGH TO MARRY.

· Would you rather be without internet for a week, or without your phone? INTERNET.

· Would you rather meet George Washington or the current President? WASHINGTON. BIDEN IS SENILE.

· Would you rather lose your vision or your hearing? HEARING.

*PLAYA – NEWS: WELCOME TO THE NEW WILD WEST SUSPECT WITH CLOWN MASK ACCUSED OF STEALING PACKAGES OFF PORCHES

A suspect with a clown mask, replica gun and jewelry was accused of stealing packages off of front porches and was arrested Monday, Culver City police said. A resident called 911 to report someone stealing packages off front porches near the area of Northgate Street and Overland Avenue about 6:30 p.m. Monday, police said. Officers located and detained the suspect. He had stolen packages, a replica handgun was hidden in his waistband, drug paraphernalia, a clown mask and miscellaneous jewelry, police said. His name was not immediately released. Police offered tips to help prevent package thefts, including adding motion-activated lights around front porch areas, installing a front door security camera and doorbell and networking with neighbors. People are also urged to call 911 to report these types of thefts.

*PLAYA – PEOPLE: MEET SYDNEY:

Sydney has been living in Playa Vista since February, 2017

*PLAYA – NEWS: SOCAL RE-OPENINGS, GET INFO ON MUSEUMS, AQUARIUMS, THEME PARKS, THEATERS

Annenberg PetSpace
– Playa Vista

After several months of pandemic-related closures, a number of regional cultural destinations, theme parks, aquariums, and other spots are gearing up for reopening, or have already welcomed guests back. The announcements began soon after Los Angeles County entered the less-restrictive Red Tier on March 15, permitting visitors inside a number of places, including museums and aquariums, at a limited capacity.

Important: Do keep in mind that every place on the list below has new safety protocols in place, which could include advance timed tickets. Knowing what to expect and prepare for ahead of time is a solid plan. Reading up on masks, social distancing, and other safety guidelines at each site, before purchasing tickets, is strongly recommended.

Annenberg PetSpace in Playa Vista again began raising the woof on March 31. There’s a “specialized hour-long experience” called the PetSpace Experience that includes a visit to the brand-new Critter Corner and a nifty peek behind the scenes. You’ll need to book in advance; start that process here.
*PLAYA PEOPLE – MEET ASH:

Ash likes hangin’ out at night in Culver City.

*PLAYA – NEWS: COMING BACK TO LIFE – BEFORE AND AFTER SCENES FROM THE CINEMARK IN PLAYA VISTA

A birthday movie outing: Aidan, 4, collects candy options to go with a hot dog as his dad, Daniel Curtis of Torrance, holds popcorn and water on reopening day, March 15, at the Cinemark Playa Vista and XD movie theater. Their movie choice: “Tom and Jerry.”

Atta Areqat, general manager at the Cinemark Playa Vista and XD movie theater, demonstrates how the staff will sanitize every morning before opening.

*PLAYA – NEWS: MAN ARRESTED AFTER ROBBING CULVER CITY RESTAURANT AT GUNPOINT

Culver City police recently arrested a man suspected of robbing a Culver City restaurant at gunpoint. According to the Culver City Police Department (CCPD), on March 29 around 2:10 p.m., an armed robbery occurred at a restaurant located at, 3970 Sepulveda Boulevard. Google Maps shows that this is the address of The Taste Kitchen, a Thai restaurant.

“The suspect entered the business, approached an employee at the register, and demanded money while simulating a handgun under his shirt. In fear for his life, the employee handed the suspect the register money,” the CCPD said.

Police say the the suspect then exited the store with the money and ran away northbound on Sepulveda Boulevard and out of sight. Culver City Police Department Detectives investigated this crime and were able to identify the suspect, a 23-year-old male resident of Los Angeles. On March 31, 2021, the suspect was detained by a neighboring agency. Culver City Police Department Detectives responded and took custody of the suspect and transported him to the Culver City Jail. Detectives will be presenting the case to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office for filing consideration.

*PLAYA – PLATINUM AWARD:
“BEST PIZZA IN PLAYA VISTA”

Health & safety:
· Mask required
· Temperature check required
· Staff wear masks
· Staff get temperature checks
· Staff required to disinfect surfaces between visits

RITROVO PLAYA VISTA
6020 Seabluff,
Dr Playa Vista 90094 Sun-Thu: 11:30am – 9:00pm
Fri-Sat: 11:30am – 9:30pm

Follow Us
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FacebookMenu: places.singleplatform.com
Order: postmates.com, slicelife.com, grubhub.com, ubereats.com
Phone: (424) 289-9327

*PLAYA — IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD: SONY EMPLOYEES TO BEGIN RETURNING TO CULVER CITY LOT JUNE 1

Sony Pictures Chairman Tony Vinciquerra,
– Culver City

Sony Pictures Entertainment has announced that it is planning to have employees return the Culver City lot in June. In a memo to staff on Monday, Sony Pictures Chairman Tony Vinciquerra said the phased reopening of the studio offices will begin on June 1, with a goal of having the lot “up to speed” by Labor Day. “As COVID-19 cases continue to decline and the number of vaccinations increase each day, we are starting to see very encouraging signs of recovery,” Vinciquerra said. “With many state and local restrictions being reduced, allowing more businesses to reopen, we can now start moving into the next phases of our Return-to-Office planning.” “In preparation for this next phase, we are putting in place additional safety measures including an enhanced cleaning regimen, upgraded air conditioning filters, UV lighting inside air conditioning equipment where possible, and increased outside air circulation,” he said in the memo.

The chairman said Sony has plans for a phased reopening and different health protocols. “The progress we are seeing worldwide in managing the virus’s spread and life slowly inching back to normal is some of the most exciting news we have seen throughout this difficult year,” said Vinciquerra in the letter. “There is every reason to feel optimistic about the direction things are now headed. That said, please continue to be safe and adhere to CDC guidance and safety protocols.” Sony follows Warner Bros and the Walt Disney Co, both of which plan to have employees gradually returning starting in mid-summer. According to Variety, the Disney Co is gradually bringing back staff with a phased reopening after July 4, while Fox Corp has deferred its reopening date in April to no earlier than Sept. 7

*PLAYA – PARKS:

Playa Vista Dog Park,
-Playa Vista

With Spring in full bloom, make sure to check out some of the beautiful parks that your neighborhood as to offer! Neighborhood parks, sports fields, and regional hiking parks, are in and adjacent to Playa Vista. ·        Playa Vista Dog Park
·        Playa Vista Sports Park
·        Fountain Park At Playa Vista
·        Playa Vista Central Park
·        Ballona Creek bicycle path
·        Ballona Discovery Park
·        Concert Park
·        Steve Soboroff Court Park is a basketball and playground facility next door to the LAClippers training facility
·        Randy Johnson Park is located on Bluff Creek Drive
·        Central Park includes a bandshell and athletic facilities

*PLAYA VISTA PEOPLE:

Rhonda loves showing off her nails in Marina del Dey.

*PLAYA – EATS: CULVER CITY EATERY DONATED ALL SALES FOR A DAY TO CHARITY

Jersey Mike’s Subs,
– Culver City

The Culver City Jersey Mike’s Subs store is among 209 Los Angeles area locations who donated 100 percent of sales to Cancer For College last Wednesday. Cancer For College provides need-based college scholarships and educational experiences to cancer survivors since 1993, it said on its website. The effort is part of the sandwich franchise chain’s Month of Giving, which has raised $32 million for local charities since 2011. Jersey Mike’s hopes to shatter its own record and raise more than $8 million this year, it said in a news release.

Jersey Mike’s has been taking donations all month for selected charities. “All sales from all locations” were donated on Wednesday, the company said. Owners even donated their money to the cause so that every dollar that flowed in on Wednesday went go to charity. Restaurant owners pick the charities and identify organizations “that support local neighborhoods and build a stronger community,” the company said.

Here’s a list of participating locations in and near Culver City:

4114 Sepulveda Blvd., Culver City
1447 Lincoln Blvd., Santa Monica
4020 Lincoln Blvd. Ste. A, Marina Del Rey
1831 S. La Cienega Blvd. Suite A, Los Angeles
279 South Beverly Dr., Beverly Hills
1020 Glendon Ave., Los Angeles
Brentwood Place, 12003 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles
912 N Western Ave, San Pedro
5342 Rosecrans Ave. Gateway Center, Hawthorne
24631 Crenshaw Blvd. Suite M, Torrance
561 N Pacific Coast Hwy, Redondo Beach

*PLAYA – READER COMMENT:

“Over the last strange and difficult year, I’ve come to thoroughly enjoy your intriguing and inspiring Playa Vista People weekly digital publication. When I first started to receive it I wasn’t sure what it was about. But as the pandemic unfolded it got me an opportunity to learn more about the people places and things in our dynamic community. It as if Playa Vista People has brought the experience of living here from black and white into full technicolor.” —– Bart L., Playa Vista.

*PLAYA – BULLETIN BOARD:
1. ***The creepy man staring into home!!!! Last night at about 10 pm a roommate of mine said she heard a man in the backyard right outside her window. She screamed “hello” and no one responded. Not too far later she walked into the living room and the man’s full face was pressed against the window staring into our living room. He was a white male and I am assuming he was pretty tall if he was able to reach his head to the window. The cops were called and they were not able to find anyone in the area. —- Hope Georgiou, Playa Vista

2. ***Hi, I’m Shahe. Nice to meet you. I have been in the neighborhood since 1980. —- Shahe Adourian, Westchester
***The handshake is a gesture that is so culturally fundamental that something important will be lost if it disappears. —- Arthur L., Playa Vista.

3. *** For years, California legislators and judges have tried to reform the state’s money bail system to reduce discrimination against the poor. On Thursday, four months after voters rejected such a reform, the California Supreme Court ruled that it is unconstitutional to require defendants to remain behind bars simply because they cannot afford bail. Translation: we are screwed! —– Sally K., Marina Del Rey.

4. *** We are brainwashed by our economic system until we end up in a tomb beneath a pyramid of time payments, mortgages, preposterous gadgetry, playthings that divert our attention from the sheer idiocy of the charade. —– Gallagher Q., Westchester.

5. ***My name is Lauren Hill and I’m a journalism student at Loyola Marymount University. At last night’s Del Rey Neighborhood Green Council Meeting, the council discussed the possible rehoming of our peacock friend, Tivoli. (It sounds like some people call him Paul, some call him Romeo, but most call him Tivoli.). I’m writing a story about Tivoli and his possible rehoming, and if anyone would like to comment on Tivoli, a story about him, or how he impacted you or your family since he appeared, please email me at: lhill27@lion.lmu.edu. —- Lauren Hill, Westchester.

6. ***Tivoli Relocation. Hello neighbors, My name is Dylan Keville and I have been caring for Tivoli the peacock for a while now and this is what I have to say, Tivoli has brought so much joy to the neighborhood for the past year and I know many people are against him being Relocated but it is in the best interest for Tivoli, I was against him being relocated at first and then I started volunteering to help him cross the street since I have done this I realize how dangerous it is for him to be crossing Maxella every day. I’ve been helping him cross the street but what if someone can’t help him cross one day, I have seen him almost get hit by a car at least 10 times just in one week, it is a miracle that he is survived the whole year in Marina Del Rey. —– Dylan Keville, Mar Vista.

7. ***At least one way of measuring the freedom of any society is the amount of comedy that is permitted. Thanks to the woke mob, we are screwed! —- Joni F., Marina Del Rey

8. ***My daughter (young adult) was out for her evening run and as she was waiting to cross a street a guy was passing her in his van and saw her and stopped his van right next to her. She was running on 77th, near Denrock, and crossing 77th onto Denrock when this happened. As she was running on Denrock near 80th, seconds later, he came up behind her in his van, got out of his van, RAN toward her, and at that point, my daughter started screaming/yelling. The guy sprinted away and got back in his van. —– Debra Huston, Westchester

9. ***This is to all my Playa Vista neighbors. This is an appeal to you. As you know doubt know we have a serious problem with the homeless/RVs/Cars on Jefferson from Lincoln working its way down to Culver. There is trash everyplace and fire pits. The outer trail around the Ballona Freshwater Marsh is dangerous in so many respects. Aside from that these people are coming inside the marsh without permission. There are debris and trash all along the water’s edge. Clothing, beverage containers, and general trash. This is a serious hazard for the wildlife. A few weeks ago I came upon a man fishing. in the marsh. There is no fishing allowed. —– Lynzie Flynn, Playa Vista.

10. ***I love reading your P.V.P. Bulletin Board. Cool s—t! —– Lance H., Culver City

11. ***What does the Playa Vista PD’s stance on the homeless population? The question is on the title: What does the Playa Vista PD’s stance on the homeless population? Has anyone called them, asking to enforce the law equally for everyone and get those illegally parked RVs outta there? I’ve paid multiple parking tickets for parking a car overnight, even just a motorcycle (the latter was in S.F… god help anyone still living there :-D) —- Mike Kababov, Playa Vista.

12. ***I had a delicious dinner at Ritrovo Playa Vista and will definitely be back. The lamb was extraordinary as was the beet salad. —– Renee P., Playa Del Rey.

13. ***Facts are facts! For 20 years we’ve lavished attention and money on fighting human terrorism and forgot that the terrorism of nature is equally deadly, deserving equal preparation. —– Dr. Davis H., Marina Del Rey.

14. ***What wrong with people? In Playa Vista this morning, I saw two elderly ladies were slowly doddering along, minding their own business, when a millennial bike messenger (with earbuds, natch) sped by them on the sidewalk and nearly knocked them over. —– Juliette O., Playa Vista

15. ***To do a proper push-up, you must push down. —- Personal fitness trainer, Abbott W., Marina Del Rey.

Playa Vista People Disclaimer: 1.) Playa Vista People accepts no liability for the content of this email, or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided. Playa Vista People is not associated with any commercial or political organization and is transmitted via the web for the sole benefit of its subscribers. 2.) Unfortunately, computer viruses can be transmitted via email. The recipient should check this mail and any attachments for the presence of viruses.

Playa Vista People 04/01/2021

*PLAYA PEOPLE – MEET ZARA:

Zara likes eating cereal in Culver City.

*PLAYA – NEWS: UPSCALE REMODEL FOR PIER 44 MARINA

Bryce Fisher, Bellingham Marines,
– Marina del Rey

Pier 44 Marina, located in Marina del Rey, California, recently completed a redesign and reconstruction project that has resulted in a more accessible and aesthetically pleasing facility for slip holders and the surrounding community. Bellingham Marine, which was responsible for the in-water portion of the project, started work in September 2018. “It was a design/build project. We had to demo the existing marina and put in new floats and fingers for a 141-slip marina,” said Usmita Pokhrel, a junior project engineer. Although that was a reduction from the original 223 slips, it was necessary to accommodate the larger boat slips that are more in demand today.

The new docks do offer some transient slips and places for dinghies. In addition, the marina is able to accommodate up to 60 boats in its new 2,450 square foot dry stack storage facility, which is served by a jib crane. Bellingham Marine’s concrete floating dock system included a 9-foot by 9-foot pier, a 9-foot by 9.5-foot pier and a 2-foot by 9-foot pier for the Jib crane platform. The docks feature wood walers and steel thru rods, and a unique gray, concrete-stamped deck that mimics the appearance of an ashlar-cut stone walkway. To better meet ADA compliancy and federal guidelines for marina accessibility, Bellingham installed 80-foot-wide pedestrian gangways throughout the marina.

The marina’s new pedestal/power centers, with LED lights, can be programmed for white, red, green or blue lighting. Other amenity upgrades include a pump out station, boater restrooms with showers and laundry, a 24-hour controlled access gate and Wi-Fi. Pier 44 Marina underwent a redevelopment on its landside as well. It now features waterfront dining and shopping, including a retailer for boat parts, supplies and accessories, an onsite yacht club, and additional boater services offices.

This landside development did not impact the slip construction. “We are used to building in Marina Del Rey, where we have limited access to landside facilities,” said Bryce Fisher, Bellingham Marines project development manager. “We delivered floats to the site as needed to put them into place, and we do all the construction that we need on the water side based out of either our pile-driving barge or the work boats that we have on site.” Although the permitting for the completely reconstructed marina took two years, the work went smoothly and was completed in November 2020. The marina planned an opening for some time in March 2021.

*PLAYA – NEWS: CULVER CITY AREA HOTEL NEARS COMPLETION

A new hotel near Culver City is nearing completion

WATCH HERE

*PLAYA – NEWS: PARKING ENFORCEMENT RESUMES APRIL 1 IN MARINA DEL REY

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Parking Enforcement Detail will resume enforcing street sweeping and expired registration citations, along with towing vehicles that were warned via “Red Tag,” officials announced this week. Drivers are urged to be mindful of the change beginning April 1, sheriff’s officials said.

Resumed enforcement includes the following:

Street sweeping: All streets with posted signs for street sweeping will be enforced
Expired registration: Vehicles with expired registration will be cited for registrations expired in excess of six months and will be towed
Indigent Payment Plan: Anyone in need of financial assistance to pay citations can make arrangements through the following: Phone: (866) 561-9744
Red tag warnings: Red tag warnings will be issued to vehicles parked within the public right-of-way not displaying signs of movement, such as excessive dirt, spider webs, and debris underneath and around the tires, flat tires, missing parts, and vandalism.

If a vehicle has not been moved after 72 hours’ notice is given, a citation for Abandonment Prohibited will be issued and the vehicle will be towed immediately. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Parking Enforcement Detail will resume enforcing street sweeping and expired registration citations, along with towing vehicles that were warned via “Red Tag,” officials announced this week.

*PLAYA – PEOPLE: MEET TERRELL

Terrell has been living and working in Westchester since September 2018

*PLAYA – VIDEO:

A stroll through the greens at Playa Vista Farmers Market (Part 2)

WATCH HERE

*PLAYA – PEOPLE: MEET TEDDY
YES OR NO QUESTIONS…

Teddy has been living in Culver City since April 2019.

– Do you think men and women are equal? NO

– Have your parents caught a lie of great caliber? YES

– Would you share your last piece of food with me? HELL, NO

– Have you ever got in the car of someone you just met? SADLY, YES.

-Would you be able to forgive the betrayal of a friend? YES

-Are you happy studying what you are studying or working on what you are working on? NO

– Have you ever been arrested? NO

– Do you get along with your parents? YES

– Have you ever fainted from drinking so much? YES

*PLAYA — RESTAURANTS: RITROVO

At Ritrovo, we pride ourselves in offering a great atmosphere for family and friends. Deva and Ivan (the husband and wife team) wanted to offer here in Playa Vista a little piece of Italy and brought wonderful recipes along for their guests to enjoy.

We invite you to come and enjoy a pleasant visit with a wonderful wine selection to go along with your meal and a homey environment.

IVAN KODEH
DEVA AMIACHE, Owners

The couple’s many years of global success as restauranteurs has lead them to their latest adventure in Playa Vista, CA.

Ritrovo is open for outdoor dining, indoor dining and has a great new wine sampler!

RITROVO PLAYA VISTA
6020 Seabluff,
Dr Playa Vista 90094 Sun-Thu: 11:30am – 9:00pm
Fri-Sat: 11:30am – 9:30pm

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*PLAYA – IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD:
MARINA DEL REY PETS WAITING TO BE ADOPTED

Looking to add a new member to your family and do something good for the world at the same time? Perhaps it’s the right time to adopt a pet! Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, many animal shelters in and around Marina Del Rey are still working to find forever homes for dozens of cats, dogs and other adorable critters coming through.

There are thousands of dogs, cats and other animals of all ages without a home throughout California — and many are located within driving distance. For those looking to adopt, a great place to start your search for your new friend is at Wallis Annenberg Petspace, where Milo the dog is waiting patiently, or another local shelter. If you aren’t sure if you have time to take care of a pet year round, many shelters also offer opportunities to foster pets until they are placed.

Need some help in your search? Petfinder have you covered. We create a list each week of all the pets recently put up for adoption in your area. If you’re a dog person, meet Suzette, a Rat Terrier mix up for adoption. If cats are more your thing, there are several great cats available, too. Click on any listing for more information, or to start the adoption process.

Editor’s note: This list was automatically generated using data compiled by Petfinder.

*PLAYA VISTA PEOPLE – MEET FRANK:

Frank has been living and working in Culver City since March 2014.

*PLAYA – HISTORY:

The Expo Line arrives in Culver City, a town that sprang from the barley fields of Rancho La Ballona and grew into “The Heart of Screenland.”

*PLAYA – READER COMMENT:

I think the way this poll is designed is unfair to Councilman Bonin. He’s the only councilmember who has made solving homelessness one of his top priorities, and has had a target on his back because of it. He’s NOT the problem! Our homelessness problem began decades ago, but was basically ignored while the homeless population was focused on skid row and not visible in our communities.. The problems are multifaceted and extremely complicated to solve, and Councilman Bonin is doing everything within his power to find solutions. One size does not fit all, as different segments of the homeless population require different approaches, and none of them are fast or easy. I think it’s a mistake to expect the government to solve all of them, as it will take both governmental support AND community members themselves. Most Bonin-bashers haven’t lifted a finger to do anything for their communities, nor do they have any better ideas on how to humanely solve the problem. Yes, property and personal crime have risen in recent years, especially since the start of the pandemic. But they’ve increased everywhere, not just in our community. Your “People’s Poll” is extremely biased and isn’t helpful. Rather than spend time trying to marshall support against Councilman Bonin, why don’t you use your platform to promote solutions? Replacing Bonin isn’t one of them.

– John Sharpe

*PLAYA – PEOPLE: MEET LINCOLN

Lincoln has been living and working in Culver City since October 2017.

*PLAYA – SEE IT: ‘INTERLOCKING’ BUILDINGS UNDERWAY DOWNTOWN CULVER CITY

– Culver City

A shiny development featuring two “interlocking” buildings is underway in Downtown Culver City. The project, called The Brick and The Machine, is located at the corner of Washington Boulevard and Delmas Terrace. Developers Clarett West Development and DLJ Real Estate Capital Partners are building a three- and four-story structure with 60,000 square feet of offices, 13,000 square feet of ground-floor retail and subterranean parking for 223 vehicles.

Abramson Architects designed the project.

“A new ground-up building in the center of Downtown Culver City engages the creative energy and collaborative spirit of its cutting-edge inhabitants by providing two distinct office environments – The Brick and The Machine,” Abramson Architects writes on their website. “The Brick features a dynamic shift between large, building-scale window openings and a finely textured, human-scale materiality. The exterior façade is a contemporary interpretation of the historic brick landmarks in the area. The Machine features a series of movable exterior screens that offer glare and temperature control.”

Together, the buildings will share expansive vegetated regions including a multi-story courtyard and activated rooftop deck. “The creative office’s fluid indoor/outdoor spaces incorporate natural lighting and ventilation strategies, both known to increase employee engagement and productivity,” Abramson Architects writes. Construction began in January 2020 was set to take 20 months.

*PLAYA PEOPLE – MEET LAUREN:

Lauren has been living in Playa Del Rey since November 2007

*PLAYA–BULLETIN BOARD:

1. *** “The customer service at the CVS in Playa Vista constantly reminds me of a post office in a bad neighborhood.” – Fay S., Playa Vista.

2. ***I got taken trying to be helpful. A homeless man asked me if I could get him food from Ralphs and I happily obliged only to find out from one of the cashiers that this person does this all the time. People buy him food, and he returns the food to get the cash. I don’t know why I am surprised, I knew better… I have a friend who works for the LA County Department of Heath who has told me many times that the worst thing I can do, that we can do, is give anything to the homeless on the street. By doing so we are making things easy for them to stay where they are. —- Jen Martin, Marina Del Rey

3. ***I wonder if Jerry’s Deli will ever reopen again. —- Arthur L., Marina Del Rey.

4. ***Garbage, Rats, & Bedbugs, Trash, mattress, water heaters, and infested furniture. All this is on THE MOBILE STATION PRIVATE PROPERTY. Several attempts have been made to explore them to have at least the trash removed, if not the homeless persons in residence there responsible. Our surrounding area is now Rat & BEDBUG INFESTED AS A RESULT, not to mention how unsightly our community has become. BOYCOTT, BOYCOTT, BOYCOTT, their gas, and convenience store. BOYCOTT MOBIL @ 8600 Manchester & Emerson. —- Bob Finston, Westchester.

5. ***Honest to God, if Councilman Mike Bonin were paid a dollar a year, he would be grossly over-paid. —– Darlene M., Marina Del Rey.

6. ***Wheels from car stolen overnight. The wheels were stolen overnight (late Friday 3/19 or early Saturday 3/20) from my car parked in front of my house in the “Mar Vista oval” area. They left my car on 4 plastic soft drink crates. My “Ring” system didn’t record the action because the car was too far away and didn’t activate. I am in the process of submitting a crime report. My car didn’t have a catalytic converter or a tailgate to steal so I thought my car was impervious to the recent crime wave. Oops. Be aware, car part thieves are very bold at the moment. —– Doug Smith, Mar Vista

7. ***Dinner for the first time at Dan Chinese in Playa Vista. Not impressed. Seems like basically a take-out place with little attention to the dine-in customer. One waitress (nice) who spent most of her time sanitizing other tables while serving hours. Turn off. —- Loretta Q., Playa Vista.

8. ***Despite a super sales job, my wife and I had a bad experience with Haldon Pardee realtors. Since we fired them I’ve now met 4 different people who’ve also had poor experiences as well. Seems they love bragging about how great they are but after they get a client they failed to deliver. —- Thomas S., Marina Del Rey.

9. ***Two thumbs down to Capri Gelato in Marina del Rel. Poor quality product. Even poorer service. High prices Won’t be back. —– Ash L., Marina Del Rey.

10. ***It sure seems clear to me and my wife that criminals are on the offense, police are on the defense, and people in the area feeling less and less safe. What kind of idiots think it’s a good idea to de-fund the police. —– Jonathan B., Playa Vista.
11. ***Think Freely – Be Independent. Make up your own (damn) mind: www.LBNExaminer.com .

12. ***Simplicity of life here in Playa Vista, even the barest, is not a misery, but the very foundation of refinement. —- William C., Playa Vista.

13. ***In classrooms in all 50 states, our kids and grandkids are the victims of a coordinated attack on our history, our heroes, and our very inheritance. Worse yet, they’re being indoctrinated with toxic theories that divide us by race and gender and reject America’s most defining principle — that we are all individuals created equal by God. —- Benjamin C., Marina Del Rey

14. ***Contractor sent us a bill for an Estimate. We recently gathered bids from contractors for an ADU / Garage Conversion. One of the contractors that we decided not to go with, came back to us a month later and wanted to charge us for his bid, which came in the form of a 3 sentence text. We refused to pay because we never agreed, ahead of time, to pay for a proposal. Today he texts us threatening to put a mechanics lien on our home? I understand bids take time, I have many family members that work in construction, but we did not agree to this charge. —- DJ Creamer, Westchester.

15. ***Honest to God, when I looked at Councilman Mike Bonin’s self-congratulatory newsletter I laughed so hard I almost plotzed. His district is a nightmare and acts like he just won the Super-Bowl. Another radical on the Left completely out of touch with reality.—– Giles C., Playa Vista

Playa Vista People 3.25.2021

*PLAYA VISTA PEOPLE – OUR FIRST READER POLL:

As a public service to our community Playa Vista, Marina del Rey, Culver City, Playa Del Rey, and Westchester we are conducting our first Playa Vista read a poll please participate to make our community even better we will share the results with our readers in a month.

Have you noticed an increase in crime in the last year?
Have you noticed an increase in homelessness in the last year
Have you noticed an increase in graffiti in the last year?
Do you feel less safe in the last year?
If you were a school teacher, what overall grade would you give Councilman Mike Bonin for meeting the community needs in the last year?

Please send your reply to: PlayaVistaPeople@TimeWire.net

*PLAYA PEOPLE – MEET CARRIE: NOW YOU KNOW…

Carrie has been living and working in Playa Vista since December 2017.

NOW YOU KNOW……

Has studied fine art painting since age 12.
Speaks French.
Exercises daily.
Lived in NYC for four years.
Had two affairs with married men at the same time.
Loves rap music.
Doesn’t eat sugar.
Had breast enhancement surgery at age 18.
Wants to write a book.

*PLAYA – NEWS: THE (NEAR) FUTURE OF HOTEL TRAVEL IS HERE

Brian De Lowe, president and co-founder of Proper Hospitality
– Playa Vista

The new Hotel June, located in the beachside Playa Vista neighborhood of Los Angeles, was set to open last spring. With 250 guestrooms, two restaurants, a pool, and tons of outdoor communal space, it was poised to be a hip, lively, and relatively affordable option for guests visiting LA’s west side. It was also the introduction of a completely new brand from Proper Hospitality, already known for its namesake upscale properties in cities like San Francisco and Austin. Of course, none of this happened as planned.

Like restaurants, the hotel industry has been hard hit by COVID-19. Large hotel chains have recently reported massive losses — Hyatt lost $703 million in 2020; Hilton said its losses totaled $720 million and triggered permanent cost-cutting measures. A November survey from the American Hotel & Lodging Association found that more than 60 percent of hotels were operating with less than half of their full staff. As of early November, the occupancy rate at hotels in large urban centers was 34 percent, down from nearly 80 percent a year prior. It’s no wonder. A hotel stay these days — with all the plexiglass, masks, sanitizer, plastic-wrapped remotes, and lack of housekeeping ( though some hotels will provide sheets and towels for you to change yourself) — doesn’t exactly scream “vacation.” And the loss of business has led hotels to get creative with what they’re offering beyond a bed, with a slate of perk packages that, at times, feel like a consolation prize for putting up with the realities of hotel stays in a pandemic. Hotel June ended up opening in June 2020 after LA lifted some initial COVID restrictions. “One nice thing about launching a hotel brand during COVID, as opposed to it already being open prior, is that we got to literally completely rethink and reassess every element of how we wanted the hotel to operate with the pandemic in mind,” says Brian De Lowe, president and co-founder of Proper Hospitality. And, of course, figure out a way to operate that could withstand far less business than initially planned.

Instead of courting out-of-towners, who in normal times would make up three-quarters of hotel guests, Hotel June introduced partnerships to appeal to its neighbors: rooms for rent during the day, day-rate packages that included outdoor workouts and passes to the pool.“We doubled down on the staycation and daycation packages, and made sure that even if people weren’t coming to spend the night, they were able to benefit from an experience they want to have away from their home,” says De Lowe. A year into pandemic living, just about any experience away from home is a welcome one, even if it comes at a cost. Plenty of hotels have brought back the day rate, repurposing overnight guest rooms into workspaces for daily use, often with quirky and attention-grabbing perks attached. At the Innside (stylized INNSiDE) by Meliá in New York, guests can bring their dog for the day, or even overnight, and get access to in-room perks like dog beds and pet-friendly throw blankets. The hotel’s “day stay” was introduced late last year and updated recently to accommodate animals. Pets can join their humans for dinner outdoors on the heated patio and now even have access to their own menu. For $55, dogs can choose between salmon or grilled chicken with steamed veggies, lemon, and dessert. An extra $3 scores a chef-made peanut butter dog biscuit.

*PLAYA – NEWS: CULVER CITY PUSHING TO VACCINATE PEOPLE 65+ WITH UPCOMING CLINIC

– Culver City

There’s still an urgent push to vaccinate the people in the Culver City community. A number of people who are 65+ are still in need of a COVID-19 vaccine and there’s an upcoming clinic this month to help make sure people get their dose. Culver City Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department will host a one-time-only vaccination clinic for people 65 years old and older from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 25 at Culver City Senior Center, 4095 Overland Ave., Culver City. The vaccination clinic is available by appointment only for anyone who lives or works in Los Angeles County age 65 and older.

The clinic is in partnership with the Los Angeles County Department of Health and Curative. Schedule an appointment by calling the PRCS Department at (310) 253-6700 or (310) 253-6650.

“You must speak to someone to make an appointment, please do not leave voicemails,” city officials said in a statement. This vaccination clinic is for first doses only and second doses will be scheduled during the event. Organizers do not yet know if the vaccine will be Pfizer or Moderna. “Vaccines are limited so call to schedule an appointment as soon as possible,” officials said. People can also learn more about the vaccination process in Los Angeles County and scheduling appointments via the county’s website.

*PLAYA – NEWS: VANESSA BRYANT BEAMS OVER DAUGHTER NATALIA’S ACCEPTANCE INTO LMU

Vanessa Bryant with daughters Natalia, Bianka, & Capri
– Playa Vista

Vanessa Bryant is a proud mom. Bryant, 38, took to Instagram Stories on Thursday with a happy message touting the news of eldest daughter Natalia’s acceptance into Loyola Marymount University, which is located in the Los Angeles neighborhood of Playa Vista. ‘So glad you got accepted but … Too far j/k,’ she wrote of the 18-year-old with a shot of the front of the educational institution.

In January, she shared a shot of Natalia donning a New York University top, noting that she was pulling for her to stay on the West Coast. Vanessa wrote: ‘@nataliabryant chose not to apply ED to her top 5 schools. I will do my best to keep her in Cali just like I kept her daddy here,’ she wrote, adding the hashtag, #CaliGirlForever. After Natalia turned 18 this past January, Vanessa paid a special birthday tribute to her oldest daughter, nearly a year after her father Kobe Bryant, 41, and sister Gigi Bryant, 13, perished in a helicopter crash.

‘You have displayed so much strength and grace throughout the most difficult year of our lives,’ said Vanessa, who is also mother to daughters Bianka, four, and Capri, 20 months. ‘Thank you for stepping in to help me with your little sisters.’ Kobe and Gigi died with seven others in a helicopter crash in Calabasas, California on January 26, 2020. Also killed in the crash were pilot Ara Zobayan, 50, Payton Chester, 13, Sarah Chester, 46, Alyssa Altobelli, 14, Keri Altobelli, 46, John Altobelli, 56, and Christina Mauser, 38.

*PLAYA – NEWS: GRAY WHALE ASHES UP ON DOCKWEILER BEACH

A gray whale washed up on shore at Dockweiler Beach just south of Marina del Rey last week. It was alive — thin and malnourished — but then it later died. Lifeguards reported the beached whale about 4 p.m. Wednesday. Experts say the whale was about two years old and sick, Supervisor Janice Hahn said. It died around 6:30 p.m. Peter Wallerstein, president and founder of Marine Animal Rescue, said the whale likely washed up because it was sick.

“When they get sick, they beach themselves to prevent from drowning,” Wallerstein said. “But they don’t know that beaching themselves is even worse because it puts a lot of pressure on their bodies.” Wallerstein said the whale’s corpse will likely be left in place until Thursday morning, at which point investigators will perform a necropsy before it is towed away. A crowd gathered near the whale Wednesday, where lifeguards had created a barrier space between people and the whale as it struggled and the National Marine Fisheries determined what action to take.

*PLAYA – MEET SUZI: TAKE THE SUZI QUIZ

Suzi has been living and working in Culver City since April 2018.
Are you ready to take the Suzi quiz?

The Suzi quiz:

Does Suzi hate ice cream?
Does Suzi love balloons on her birthday?
Does Suzi carry mace with her?

Send your Suzi quiz answers to us at: PlayaVistaPeople@TimeWire.net

*PLAYA – HISTORY:

-Culver City

The Meralta Theatre opened in March 1924. It closed in the early-1980’s and was demolished.

PLAYA – PLATINUM APPROVED:
” BEST ELECTRICIAN IN THE AREA”*

Best of Los Angeles Award – 2020 Best Electrician
Mike Packham Electric, a local family-run skilled electrician team, provides electrical and lighting needs for Playa Vista, Marina Del Rey, Culver City, Playa Del Rey, Westchester, Venice, West Los Angeles, Santa Monica.

T: (310) 430-4174
E-mail: MikePac6453@gmail.com

*PLAYA — RESTAURANTS: CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN IS THE DODGERS’ OFFICIAL PIZZA

CPK president/ceo Jim Hyatt (left), Brian Sullivan, senior vice-president Culinary Innovation (2nd Right) are joined by former Los Angeles Dodgers Steve Garvey (2nd Left) and Eric Karros (R)
– Playa Vista

California Pizza Kitchen is extending its partnership with the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Playa Vista-based restaurant chain has signed a multi-year deal to be the official pizza of the 2020 World Series champions, according to a news release. CPK will have concessions at four places within Dodgers Stadium, according to the release. They are on the Field, Loge and Reserve levels and the Left Field Pavilion.

The Dodgers’ first home game of the year will be at 1:10 p.m. April 9 against the Washington Nationals. The Dodgers will be allowed to admit a limited number of attendees to games at Dodgers Stadium beginning April under the state’s current novel coronavirus guidelines. Founded in 1985, California Pizza Kitchen is known for its West Coast creations such as BBQ Chicken Pizza.

*PLAYA – PEOPLE: MEET ABNER:

Abner has been living in Culver City since January 1989

Would You Rather Questions…
1. Would you rather have the aliens make first contact be robotic or organic? – Robotic.

2. Would you rather lose the ability to read or lose the ability to speak? – Read, but if you strongly swing introvert or extrovert, this might be pretty easy for you.

3. Would you rather have a golden voice or a silver tongue? – Silver Tongue.

4. Would you rather be covered in fur or covered in scales? – Fur, baby, fur.

5. Would you rather be in jail for a year or lose a year off your life? A year off my life. The food in prison sounds dismal.

6. Would you rather always be 10 minutes late or always be 20 minutes early? – Early. I come from a military family.

7. Would you rather have one real get out of jail free card or a key that opens any door? – Get out of jail.

8. Would you rather know the history of every object you touched or be able to talk to animals? Talk to animals, which I already do.

9. Would you rather be married to a 10 with a bad personality or a 6 with an amazing personality? 6. The thought of spending an hour with a bad personality has my stomach sick.

10. Would you rather be able to talk to land animals, animals that fly, or animals that live under the water? – Animals that fly. I wish I could fly.

*PLAYA VISTA PEOPLE – MEET CARNI:

Carni has been living in Culver City since August 2018.

*PLAYA – SEE IT: POP’S BAGELS EXPANDING IN CULVER CITY

Zach Liporace, Owner of Pop’s Bagels
– Culver City

When it comes to bagels, there’s a rivalry between the East Coast classics and the new school, West Coast creations. As the Los Angeles bagel scene grows in the pandemic, one baker has become even more popular: Pop’s Bagels in Culver City.Their mission is simple — make sure bagels don’t suck in L.A.

Pop’s pop-up is at the Platform at 8850 Washington Blvd., Culver City. The company now has plans to expand even more in 2021, taking over the former Alfred Tea Room in Brentwood at 11928 San Vicente Blvd. In August, the group plans to open a new location near the Culver Steps, owner Zach Liporace said. Expect even more menu items — more options and other pastries — and expanded outdoor seating. The group will also keep offering its homemade butter and cream cheese, with vegan cheese and gluten-free bagels coming soon, too. Until then, Pop’s will still serve up its light and chewy signature bagels at its pop-up location on Washington Boulevard. Pop’s even delivers to New York — or anywhere else with Goldbelly. Check out their plain, everything and cinnamon raisin bagels and visit their website.

*PLAYA PEOPLE – MEET VIVIANE (Nickname – Vivi):

Vivi has been living in Playa Del Rey since December 2019

*PLAYA – BULLETIN BOARD:
1. *** “Coming very soon, lots of cool candle making workshops at Banter & Bliss Candle Co. in the Runway Shopping Center in Playa Vista. Stay tuned.” – Natalie T., Playa Vista 2. *** We need faster action on removing the DDT graveyard off the L.A. coast. —– Randi T., Marina Del Rey.

3. *** Suspicious Silver Ford pickup, 8000 blocks of Holy Cross. I observed a silver Ford Lobo pickup parked in the middle of the 8000 blocks of Holy Cross, the individual sat in the truck for over an hour and a half (I got home from work at 8:40 so they may have been there much earlier)with no lights on and leaned back in the driver seat so that they were blocked from view by the pillar there was also some trash they had dropped out of the passenger side door (chik-Fila bag) so they were parked there for some time. I drove around the block so that I could park behind them and take down their license plate. Please stay vigilant for this Silver Ford Lobo pick-up. They may have been casing the neighborhood either looking for empty houses or catalytic converters to steal. —– Christopher Dunham, Loyola Village

4. ***Lorraine Ali, Television Critic for the once important L.A. Times, wrong a review about the recent HBO Woody Allen biased “kill” job that had all the fairness of a Nazi tribunal. Evidently Ms. Ali has heard of the legal term “due process”. No wonder the L.A. Times is such a disaster. It should change its name to the Woke Times! —- Jennifer Q., Playa Vista.

5. ***I was stressed and unhappy with my life, so I moved to Los Angeles. Now I have SoCal anxiety —– Dr. William H., Marina Del Rey.

6. ***We’ve been to Dan Modern Chinese in Playa Vista three times. And we will not come back. It boils down to the horrendous wait time to get food. With only one other table occupied on a Sunday morning, we should not have to wait 20 minutes for cold seaweed salad, followed by another ten minutes for scallion pancake (not tasty, lukewarm, tasted heated up); and then the dumplings, yes, tasty, but the wait for those….way too long. Every time we’ve walked in, there has never been a host to greet us. We stand and wait and hope someone will come out and seat us. You feel awkward and unattended to the minute you enter here. When we sit down, we hardly think a server knows we are there, and we know that no matter how few customers there are, that the food will take at least 20 or more minutes to arrive, and then you will not be looked after when you need to more, or to re-order, or to get your check. Someone who has restaurant experience, in both the kitchen and the front of the house, needs to step in here and get the game going. —- Andrew H., Los Angeles.

7. ***The new clothing store, Matte Argyle in the Runway shopping center in Playa Vista always looks closed. Is it out of business already? —– Wendi K., Playa Vista.

8. ***The audio-only Clubhouse app has risen quickly in popularity, but keeping toxicity out is the hard part. —– Fabian L., Playa Vista.

9. ***Did you know that this free Bulletin Board in Playa Vista People reaches 25,000 people all in the area each week. Sell. Barter. Hire. Comment. Promote. Send in your free Bulletin Board posting to: PlayaVistaPeople@TimeWire.net

10. ***Dog poop not being picked up. A couple of months ago I saw a gentleman with an English bulldog walking his dog and let his dog pooped but didn’t pick it up after at the corner of Osage and 76th street. I looked from the window and came out to tell him to pick up the doodoo after his dog but he yelled out in an English accent that I should mind my own business. I saw him again recently walking the same routes, and this time I mind my own business and guess what. he must have not liked me or didn’t like the fact that he got caught, because I now see a big fat amount of turd left in front of my house. I’ve lived for so many years and never got anything like that to happen to me. shame on this neighbor who lives in our neighborhood. 7700-7710 Osage Avenue, Los Angeles, CA —- Christine Phan, Westchester.
11. ***The two-story shack on Thatcher. Looks like the shack is about to add another addition. A guy is unloading a ton of planks as we speak. This feels a little insane to me. —– Kathleen Archer, Marina Del Rey.

12. ***Beware the stories you read or tell; subtly, at night, beneath the waters of consciousness, they are altering your world. —– Lola P., Westchester.

13. ***Stolen packages. I just noticed on my Nest camera that someone stole a package from me. This person is riding through the neighborhood on a bike with a backpack taking packages from doors. He seems to come just after delivery trucks and USPS. I live in La Villa Marina. —–Sheila Ruhfass, Del Rey

14. ***Honest to God, if Councilman Mike Bonin were paid a dollar a year, he would be grossly over-paid. —– Darlene M., Marina Del Rey.

15. ***Garbage, Rats, & Bedbugs, Trash, mattress, water heaters, and infested furniture. All this is on THE MOBILE STATION PRIVATE PROPERTY. Several attempts have been made to explore them to have at least the trash removed, if not the homeless persons in residence there responsible. Our surrounding area is now Rat & BEDBUG INFESTED AS A RESULT, not to mention how unsightly our community has become. BOYCOTT, BOYCOTT, BOYCOTT, their gas, and convenience store. BOYCOTT MOBIL @ 8600 Manchester & Emerson. —- Bob Finston, Westchester.