2020

*PLAYA PEOPLE – MEET AIKO:

Aiko has been living in Playa Vista since June 2017

*PLAYA – NEWS: THANKSGIVING FIRE SAFETY TIPS

Thanksgiving is the leading day of the year for home fires involving cooking equipment. We understand your holidays will look much different this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Please follow Public Health guidelines in addition to our fire safety tips to keep everyone safe.

Correctly wear a cloth face covering to prevent disease spread when outside your home and around others that are not part of your household.
Avoid confined spaces – Actively stay away from indoor and outdoor spaces that don’t allow for easy distancing of at least 6 feet between you and others.
Avoid close contact – Stay at least 6 feet away (3 or more adult steps) from all other people who are not part of your own household, especially while talking, eating, drinking, and singing.
Remain outdoors as much as possible when socializing with people not in your household.
Wash or sanitize your hands often.
Clean frequently touched items regularly.
If you are sick, or you have been in contact with someone who is sick with COVID-19 or has symptoms of COVID-19 stay home, away from others, and get tested.

The Culver City Fire Department encourages you to be safe when preparing your holiday meal. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

The leading cause of fire in the kitchen is unattended cooking. Stand by your pan when you are cooking on the stove top. If you leave the kitchen for even a short time, turn off the stove.
Watch what you are cooking. Fires start when the heat is too high. If you see any smoke or the grease starts to boil, turn the burner off.
Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove. Then no one can bump them or pull them over.
Keep a pan lid or baking sheet nearby. Use it to cover the pan if it catches on fire.
Stay in your home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently. Set a timer so you will not forget about the bird as you watch the parade or football.
Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns. Have a “kid-free zone” of at least 3 feet around the stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared or carried.
Keep anything that can catch fire (e.g., oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packages, towels and curtains) away from your stovetop.
Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button.
If you are frying your turkey, use a fryer with thermostat controls to ensure the oil does not become over heated. Thaw your turkey completely; ice on the bird will cause oil to splatter. Don’t’ overfill the pot with oil. Always use a turkey fryer outdoors.

*PLAYA – NEWS: ELECTRONIC ARTS RELOCATES LA STUDIO HQ TO NEW DEL REY CAMPUS

CEO of Electronic Arts. Andrew Wilson
– Playa Vista

Continental Development Corporation and Mar Ventures, Inc. signed a 10-year lease with Electronic Arts for the entire 58,034-square-foot building at Del Rey, a new office campus in the Del Rey neighborhood on Los Angeles’ Westside. The unique, contemporary office structure at 4820 Alla Rd. will serve as EA’s new studio headquarters, which is currently located in Playa Vista.

The campus was completed this fall and includes three, two-story buildings totaling 162,031 square feet on roughly 5.7 acres. The defining feature of the buildings is a 22-foot-high clerestory space on the second floor that is virtually column free, resulting in flexible, open floor plans and abundant natural light. All buildings include private balconies and patios that overlook a spacious common courtyard, Zen Garden, an outdoor BBQ and large fireplace area as well as a Yoga Deck and Great Lawn. JLL’s Blake Searles and Tony Morales represented the tenant. CBRE’s Jeff Pion, Drew Pion and Michelle Esquivel–Hall represented the landlord.

*PLAYA – NEWS: CULVER CITY RECEIVES GRANT FOR BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN SAFETY EDUCATION

OTS Director Barbara Rooney
– Culver City

The City of Culver City’s Public Works Department has received a $47,000.00 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) that focuses on the safety of bicyclists and pedestrians. “Traffic safety is a valued City goal. The City is presently developing its first Local Road Safety Plan including safety education. This grant will assist the City in developing and deploying a comprehensive traffic safety education program for community members of all ages and physical abilities,” the City said in a press release.

Grant funds will be used for a variety of activities promoting bicyclist and pedestrian safety:

Education workshops geared toward youth, adults and seniors.
Development of traffic safety education materials in multiple languages.
Education on the importance of safety equipment that improves visibility such as reflective armbands, bicycle headlights and taillights.
Distribution of bicycle helmets to those in need following education presentations.

The grant program runs from Oct. 1, 2020 to Sept. 30, 2021.
“Our goal is that education will change poor behaviors and make our roads safer,” OTS Director Barbara Rooney said. “This funding will help ensure the safety of those out biking or walking.”
Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

*PLAYA – NEWS: PLAYA VISTA FARMERS MARKET GOING STRONG

Playa Vista Farmers Market

The Playa Vista Farmers Market is still open, but with precautions! Elderly or endangered individuals may enter at 9 a.m. and everyone is required to wear a mask. Online ordering is available. Live music, handmade jewelry, fresh produce, and more is available every Saturday at 12775 W. Millennium Drive.

Playa Vista Farmers Market, 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
For more information, visit farmermark.com/playavista

*PLAYA – PEOPLE: MEET KENT:

Kent has lived in Playa del Rey since September 2014

Now You Know……..

Loves Tito’s Tacos
Learned to ice skate at age 5
Has never taken an Uber ride
Loves finger painting
Had a crush on Meg Ryan in High School
Has high cholesterol
Is allergic to cats
Loves ballroom dancing
Favorite TV show: 60 Minutes

*PLAYA – GOLD STAR APPROVED:

The best carpet care service in Los Angeles!
BOBCAT CARPET & FABRIC CARE

www.bobcatcarpetcare.com

(310) 478-4438

*PLAYA – SPORTS: CULVER CITY’S HIGHLY RANKED FOOTBALL TEAM IS TRAINING AND HOPING AT THE SAME TIME

Culver City High School’s head football coach, Jahmal Wright
– Culver

CityCulver City’s football team is training hard and everyone is keeping their fingers crossed that their will be a season played despite the coronavirus. The Centaurs have a lot to lose if their season is cancelled. They are ranked 24th in the State of California and 16th in Southern California. These are the highest rankings in Culver City history. “Our physical distancing workouts are going well so far,” said Centaur head coach Jahmal Wright last week during a telephone interview. “It’s very different from what we are used to but we are following all of the protocols and attendance has been well. Guys are excited and team camaraderie is good and our senior leaders are really leading the way working hard. I pray that the season goes well.”

Although Wright is the head varsity coach he is responsible for two other teams, the Junior Varsity and the Freshman team. All three are working out at different times. “We are treating these workouts like our summer workouts,” said Wright. “We are just trying to get our guys in shape physically.” Their first game is January 8, 2021. Like sports all over the world you can throw the calendar out the window. Teams are trying to play whenever and wherever they can. “Coaches are kind of creatures of habit, so our calendar is kind of topsy-turvy,” said Wright. “It’s new to us so we are adjusting as we go.”

Helping the Centaurs adjust is a team full of talented seniors. “Having the amount of seniors that we have on the varsity team defiantly has eased the transition into what we are doing,” said Wright. “It’s going to be a lot less practices and a lot less preparation time before the season starts. Having senior leadership has really helped us.” Some of those seniors are offensive lineman, Dylan Nichols, defensive back and wide receiver Emari Pait, strong safety and corner back Quinton Chapman, wide receiver Makai Cope, outside linebacker Antonio Moten, wide receiver and defensive back Legend Waring, quarterback Zevi Eckhaus, running back and defensive back Ayinde Bankole and defensive lineman, Adrian Simon.
Although the coaching staff has a senior laden team led by one of the best quarterbacks in the state in Eckhaus they are also excited about some of the younger players. “We know we have some talented young people, but they are unproven,” said Wright. “We won’t know how good they are until we start doing more football related activities. It’s early right now. We are still in the physical distancing mode, so we are not doing normal football activities.”

One young player that a lot of people will be watching is Wright’s freshman son. “I want him not to think about being the coach’s son and just have fun.” Culver City quarterback Zevi Eckhaus is a three year starter. Having fun is what Wright wants all his players to do, especially his all-everything quarterback Eckhaus. “Zevi is doing awesome. He is so much stronger and he has put on a few more pounds and Makai is really looking good. They will be one of the top quarterback-receive tandems in the state this year. Also, Ayinde is really looking like a senior running back and he should have a breakout year. Wright and his coaching staff are excited about the offensive and defensive lines. The offensive line will have three returning starters and they are one of the biggest lines ever at Culver City. Wright is beginning his 12th year as the Centaur head coach and his 21st season overall coaching football at Culver City. “We are adjusting and making it happen,” said Wright.

*PLAYA – YES OR NO: TANDY

Tandy has been working in Westchester since August, 2019

Loves the L.A. Dodger – NO
Mother was a bad cook – YES
Loves the smell of gasoline – YES
Sings in the shower – YES
Smokes cigars – YES
Only drink coffee on Christmas – YES
Sleeps naked – YES
Favorite reality TV show – Cheaters – YES
Hates the smell of pot – YES

*PLAYA – EATS:

𝒁.𝑬.𝑵. 𝑭𝒐𝒐𝒅𝒔 𝑭𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝑺𝒏𝒂𝒄𝒌…

Winner of Best of Los Angeles Award “The Best Personalized Food Delivery Service – 2020.”

“Thanks to Z.E.N. Foods I was able to pack on lean muscle for my role as a marine.”
– Zac EfronActor – The Lucky One

“Z.E.N. Foods allows me to ‘eat healthy’ for every meal.”
– Jesse Tyler FergusonActor – Modern Family

Customizable meal plans to match your lifestyle. We deliver right to your front door. Save time and money. We do all the work for you!

Order @zenfoods.com#zenfoods or 310.205.9368

*PLAYA – HEALTH: FREE SUPPORT GROUP FOR INDIVIDUALS COPING WITH MENTAL ILLNESS

The Life Adjustment Team in Marina del Rey is offering a free Zoom support group for people with mental illness experiencing increasing anxiety during the Covid-19 pandemic. The group is run by Cari Coulam, LMFT, Eric Carlson, LMFT, and KD Donovan, MA and is on Wednesdays at 11:00 a.m.

For more information, call us at 310-572-7000 or sign up on meetup at the link below!

https://www.meetup.com/managing-your-mental-health-in-2020-free-support/

*PLAYA VISTA PEOPLE – Only Originals Allowed!:

*PLAYA – READER COMMENT:

“I have been living in this area For over 20 years and your weekly digital magazine is a breath of fresh air unlike anything I’ve seen thus far I love Playa Vista People and the photos are always memorable with a great attitude. Thank you for an outstanding job had creating hey dynamic weekly forum for a dynamic area.” —– Gloria Demotte, Playa del Rey.

*PLAYA–BULLETIN BOARD:
1.***My first year in Culver City I was a night-shift worker and naturally struggled with sleep. The problem I learned was because weren’t getting the environmental and social cues that help adjust the circadian clock. The most important of these cues, called zeitgebers (German for ”time givers”) is sunlight. —– Pamela C., Culver City.

2.***A divided government can mean measured change—and that is typically good for investors. But the end of political acrimony is nowhere in sight. —— Terrace Knight, Marina Del Rey

3. ***Can someone please explain to me why people on the West Side run/walk in the street, on the “outside” of parked cars when there is a perfectly good sidewalk on the other side of said cars? I find it to be an annoyance and hazard when driving, I simply don’t get it! —– Lynne M Osterman, Marina Del Rey.

4. ***Good news. A motorist who led authorities on a chase in a reportedly stolen car in the Venice area Thursday was taken into custody outside Venice High School. The chase ended about 7 a.m. when the woman pulled over and stopped near Venice Boulevard and Walgrove Avenue. The suspect’s name was not immediately available.The black Honda Accord was allegedly stolen in the El Segundo area around 6:30 a.m. —– Devin L., Marina Del Rey.

5.***Anxiety and depression naturally arise when we perceive we have no power over a situation. Doing something, such as documenting seasonal changes, is a way to restore a modicum of control and a sense of well-being. —– Dr. Emily Rosenblum, Culver City.

6. ***I can appreciate a sentimental or romantic film, but syrupy “chick flicks” are another thing altogether. —- Karen K., Westchester.

7. ***Another request: homeowners in the HOAs of Villa Vallarta, Villa Villetri ,Villa Alicante, Villa Marina IV, and V: Demand that your HOA Board write to Bonin’s office on behalf of all homeowners that these homeless trash piles risk our health (Covid19, rats, etc) and safety…not to forget our property values and endangering the kids, families & dog lovers who enjoy the Park. Act! Email or call Bonin’s office: 213/473-7011. Don’t wait until it looks like Brentwood & Venice…they are lost. —– Linda Healey, Marina Del Rey

8. ***My family now calls Lincoln Blvd. – “Stinkin’ Blvd”, for what I hope for all that are reading is obvious. The endless army of homeless, screaming, harassing others, lying in filth, urinating, shooting up, spitting, vomiting has been permitted to be so common most force themselves not to notice. And the City and police under their control, of course, do nothing, while watching hack politicians like Councilman Mike Bonis give speeches telling all who will listen how great he is. The street reminds me and many others of a scene out of central Appalachia that is haunted by the sort of sanity-draining eldritch monsters found in a Stephen King novel, or in HBO’s “Lovecraft Country.” —– Dr. Joanne W., Marina Del Rey.

9. ***”Several years ago, I was blessed to get the best chiropractor in Los Angeles, Dr. Robert Jeffrey (https://www.drrobertjeffrey.com/). I can’t recommend him more strongly.” – Darla Jennings, Marina Del Rey.

10. ***Burnouts in Westchester? Anyone hear any crazy burnouts near Loyola? It’s smokey on my street with burnt rubber. —- Thierry Guetta, Westchester

Playa Vista People 11/19/2020

*PLAYA PEOPLE – MEET CHEF FELIPE & CHEF OSCAR:

Urban Plates
– Playa Vista

Chef Felipe & Chef Oscar at Urban Plates-Playa Vista.
Chef Oscar has been at Urban Plates for 3 years, and Chef Felipe has been there a year and a half.

*PLAYA – NEWS: THE BATTLE OVER PROTECTING BALLONA WETLANDS – AND IF THEY NEED IT

For decades it’s been an environmental jewel wedged between the urban sprawl of Marina Del Rey and Playa Del Rey. But now the Ballona Wetlands State Ecological Reserve, home to diverse plant and animal wildlife, has become a battleground for conservationists and other activists.

Just where the battle lines will ultimately be drawn depends in large part on a decision by the California Department of Fish & Wildlife (DFW), which is expected to choose, possibly before year’s end, from four alternatives for restoring one of the few remaining freshwater coastal wetlands in Los Angeles County.
After three years of studying, analyzing and receiving thousands of public comments on a smorgasbord of options for rehabilitating the wetlands outlined in a preliminary Environmental Impact Report (EIR), in September four finalists emerged from a dozen original proposals:

Alternative 1 – is the most comprehensive of the proposals, involving large-scale restoration designed to enhance the native coastal wetland and habitats with extensive work to lower land levels, remove some existing levees and creating new ones around the Reserve’s northern perimeter, realigning Ballona Creek and reconnecting it with the wetlands marsh and installing new trails, bike paths and educational features along with improvement of existing parking areas and construction of a three-story parking garage.
Alternative 2 – would include most of the restoration proposed in Alternative 1, although with less habitat enhancements.
Alternative 3 – would create an earthen levee along Fiji Way at the Reserve’s northern boundary, install culverts at two locations and enhance habitat north of Ballona Creek from State Route 90 to the west end of Fiji Way.
Alternative 4 – essentially leaves the wetlands as they are, with restoration activities limited to community volunteer groups using hand tools only, no improvements to parking areas and maintaining public access restrictions.

Although initial restoration work proposed in the three alternatives would encompass work over a five-year period, Alternatives 1 and 2 include a second phase of construction that would begin approximately 18 months after the initial restoration was completed.

Ultimately the choice boils down to whether the Wetlands should undergo substantial restoration, be partially restored or left the way it is.

*PLAYA – NEWS: SOUTH BAY POLICE CHASE ENDS IN MAR VISTA

After stealing a car in El Segundo, a suspect led police on a chase that ended in Mar Vista Thursday morning. Law enforcement officials say that the incident was reported in El Segundo around 6:30 a.m. Thursday morning when the victim reported a black Honda Accord stolen. Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Deputies and chase the suspect north towards Venice. The suspect surrendered and was apprehended a little before 7 a.m. in the area of Venice Boulevard and Walgrove Avenue, near Venice High School. Fox 11 reported the suspect was a homeless individual. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department could not immediately be reached to confirm this. No injuries were reported.

*PLAYA – NEWS: CULVER CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT ANNOUNCES SPONSOR – A – FAMILY PROGRAM

Backpacks for Kids Volunteers,
– Culver City

For the second year, Culver City Unified School District will offer a sponsor-a-family program to help district families during the pandemic and holidays, district officials announced this week. District officials expect more than 300 families will be part of the program this year, twice the amount of families that participated in 2019. “Culver City Unified School District recognizes that the holiday season can be stressful for families who are most in need,” officials said in a news release. “Again, this year, CCUSD School and Family Support Services is coordinating various district-wide efforts to support our CCUSD families in need during the holiday season to increase the joy and lessen the stress.”

Families in the district can provide gifts for other families in need. Both families will remain anonymous. “Prior to the Thanksgiving break, sponsor families will receive the list of wishes and needs for each member of one family,” officials said. “Our request is that the sponsor family purchase at least one wish and one need for each member listed.” All gifts will be dropped off at the District Office on Dec. 10 and 11, officials said. School and Family Support Services staff will distribute the gifts on Dec. 14 and 15.

Last year CCUSD invited 120 families to participate and 114 families participated, district spokesperson Geoff Maleman said. “This year we invited 300 families and expect more families will participate,” Maleman said. “Both years, families were asked to indicate a few wishes and a few needs for each family member with the ask that sponsors fill at least one wish and one need. The needs are often clothes, shoes, coats, and household items.” Culver City PTA also continues to facilitate the backpack program, which distributes food to families facing food insecurities each week. That Backpacks for Kids program currently serves more than 430 CCUSD families.

Families can sign up to help make the holiday season special for another family by completing the form HERE

*PLAYA – NEWS: VENN TEAMS WITH MICROSOFT FOR NEW SYNDICATION DEAL

co-founders and co-CEOs of VENN, Ariel Horn and Ben Kusin
– Playa Vista

VENN, the live 24/7 streaming network for gaming and entertainment, announced today a new syndication deal for its content through Microsoft’s MSN platform. Under the non-exclusive partnership, clips from VENN’s various series, including Locked In, The Download and Guest House, will be shared under MSN eSports, a new part of Microsoft’s global content ecosystem which reaches over 500M people every month in over 180 countries. The network becomes one of the first content partners for this new initiative. “We set out to create the ultimate home for gaming and esports related content, so it’s very exciting for Microsoft to team with us to utilize our content for their expansion into this exploding space,” said Ben Kusin, VENN’s co-founder and co-CEO.  “We are looking forward to helping create exposure and visibility for the exciting new MSN eSports hub, while at the same time continuing our goal of expanding VENN’s footprint through top tier syndication and distribution partners.”

“Esports is one of the fastest growing content verticals worldwide, and our partnership with Venn will help establish the new Esports Hub as the premier destination for Esports news, results, and live content,” said Marcelo de Barros, General Manager of Microsoft Sports & Esports.” “Hundreds of millions of people rely on Microsoft News every month for trusted news, important information and interesting content, and we’re excited to share Venn’s exciting Esports content with them.”

The deal comes following the close of VENN’s $26 million Series A round, which was co-led by Seed round investor BITKRAFT and new partner Nexstar Media Group, Inc. It also comes on the heels of the addition of VENN’s largest US distributor to date, The Roku Channel, as well as the expansion of distribution channels to Plex’s 15 million users and LG’s 45 million households (powered by Xumo), and smart TVs including Samsung TV Plus and VIZIO. The Microsoft partnership further cements the reach of the network’s content across various top level platforms.

Co-CEO and Co-Founder Ariel Horn added, “VENN has significantly grown in just a matter of months, and that’s largely a testament to the wonderful premium content our talented team produces every week. Having partners like MSN on board to amplify our series and talent will only continue to help the network reach new heights.” VENN currently airs over 20 hours of live weekly programming out of its Playa Vista studios flagship location with original content featuring fan-favorite streamers and personalities such as James “Dash” Patterson, Chrissy Costanza, and Sasha Grey.

*PLAYA PEOPLE – NOW YOU KNOW: PENELOPE

Penelope has lived in Culver City since September 2018.

Now You know……….

Doesn’t eat bananas
Played softball in High School
Speaks French
Hates French Toast
Loves French Fries
Jogs two miles a day
Is allergic to cats
Loves Bob Dylan
Favorite book: Eat, Pray, Love

*PLAYA – LENS:

A scene of life going on in Marina del Rey.

*PLAYA – BUSINESS: PETALS ‘N’ WAX

Stop in to see Petal’s ‘n’ Wax’s 100’s of masks! Made with tissue pack lining and washable friendly material, gift your loved ones a mask with an additional greeting or holiday card this season.

These fashionably color-coordinated masks make for great stocking stuffers, and we will even gift wrap your in-store purchases for FREE!
Petals N Wax Villa Marina Marketplace Mall 13432 Maxella Ave
Marina Del Rey, CA 90292

Hours: Mon-Sat 9 am-9 pm
Sunday 10am-6pm
T: (310) 305-8883

*PLAYA – READER COMMENT:

“I discovered your digital magazine about three or four months ago and I must say it’s extraordinary. I moved to Playa Vista in December 2018 and I love it here and your weekly publication really adds nice energy to a great community!” —– Edward E., Playa Vista

*PLAYA – HEALTH: THE PHOENIX’S FREE CLASSES – MAR VISTA RECREATION CENTER:

The Phoenix Fitness Classes,
– Mar Vista

The Phoenix, an innovative and free sober active community, is hosting free fitness classes three times a week at the Mar Vista Recreation Center this month. The nonprofit organization recently launched in Los Angeles and is offering 20 programs per week at various locations throughout the area. The Phoenix also offers free virtual programming to help maintain connection throughout the recovery community during the COVID-19 pandemic at thephoenix.org.

Programming includes group fitness for all levels. Classes are held at various times throughout the week and do not require any cost, equipment, or previous experience to participate. The only requirement to participate is 48 hours of continuous sobriety. The Phoenix is a nonprofit organization which has inspired more than 40,000 individuals across America to redefine recovery. Through a unique model of leveraging physical activity and social connection, The Phoenix aims to help people heal from substance use disorder and thrive in recovery.

Mondays, 7:30 a.m. PT – Group Fitness with Campbell
Tuesdays, 5:00 p.m. PT – Group Fitness with Campbell
Thursdays, 7:30 a.m. PT – Group Fitness with Campbell

Participants require a minimum 48 hours of continuous sobriety. To sign up for classes, visit the “Find a Class” page at The Phoenix website.

*PLAYA VISTA PEOPLE – Only Originals Allowed!:

*PLAYA – IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD: CULVER CITY PARKING ENFORCEMENT RELAXED THROUGH JANUARY 2021

CC Parking Enforcement, Captain Troy Dunlap,
– Culver City

As coronavirus cases spike across Los Angeles County, and to encourage people to stay home, Culver City officials announced relaxed parking rules heading into the holidays beginning this week through January. “To make every effort to help people stay home and slow the spread of COVID-19, Culver City will continue relaxed parking enforcement through January 31, 2021. While parking enforcement on street sweeping days has been temporarily suspended, street sweeping services are still occurring,” the city announced.

City officials had announced an extension of relaxed parking enforcement, which was put in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic through Nov. 14.

During relaxed parking rules, the city will not enforce the following:

Street sweeping restrictions in residential areas
Parking restrictions around closed schools
Ticketing and towing for abandoned vehicles and oversize vehicle overnight parking fines.

Culver City officials are also extending the city’s freeze on parking fine increases for 60 days after the initial citation and the grace period for people dropping off and picking up groceries and goods.

*PLAYA PEOPLE – MEET: WALDO

Waldo has been living and working in Marina del Rey since February 2016.

*PLAYA–BULLETIN BOARD:

1. ***During the workweek, here in Marina del Rey, when we are earning the money to pay for all those expensive gardening implements, it’s not possible to do much outside until dusk. Then, with the fireflies, we emerge into the gloaming armed with an arsenal of rakes, pitchforks, and spades, like some medieval rabble on its way to battle. Onward. —– Davis R., Marina del Rey.

2. *** I had heard a rumor that Bull & Butterfly Steak House in Playa Vista was going to open for lunch. I wonder what went wrong, too bad.” – Dominick L., Playa Vista

3. ***During the holidays, New Orleans diners discover a lagniappe (little something extra) at their favorite fine-dining restaurants. When is the last time that happened in our community? How about never. —– Jessica H., Playa Vista.

4. ***In the afternoon (November 2), I was driving down Mesmer Avenue under the 90 freeway, and I saw a man sweeping up all of the trash and garbage that he found on the sidewalk. He had accumulated a full garbage bag of stuff when I saw him, and he wasn’t finished. Almost certainly not getting paid. —– Elizabeth Pollock, Westchester.

5. ***Baltaire Steakhouse in Brentwood is the real deal. Great food, excellent service. ——- Lois V., Marina Del Rey.

6. ***Coyote at W85th & Berger Ave. At 3:30 am, my camera caught a coyote running eastbound past my front door. This is the first time we’ve had one this close and several cats like to sit on our porch at night. Please keep your pets safe. Thank you. —– Kathryn Lee, Playa Del Rey

7. ***If Mayor Eric Garcetti takes a post in President-elect Joe Biden’s administration – as there is widespread speculation he might – he would leave Los Angeles at a moment of profound crisis. Tourism has dried up, homicides are rising, city revenues are plunging and the possibility of layoffs looms. Garcetti has been a disgrace and yet another failed hack politician. —– Ernie S., Playa Vista.

8. ***A vacant commercial building the Palms area of Los Angeles was damaged by a fire Thursday.The fire was reported about 11:20 a.m. in the single-story building in the 10800 block of West Venice Boulevard that apparently used to house a dental office. Firefighters went into a defensive operation, working to prevent the flames from spreading to other buildings, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department, which was assisted by Culver City firefighters. —- Dr. H.F. Pollack, Culver City.

9. ***We found a cat last Sunday, very sweet and loves to be with people! We live in the Del Rey area The cat has a chip but we have not heard back from the vet, Thanks You can reach us at burgess.family@twc.com or call Barbara at 310 990 2852

10. ***Hey, do you want to, maybe, I dunno, buy my product or whatever? No, of course, you don’t. Not if I ask like that. But so often, the language in your website’s “call to action” button is just as passive. A well-written press release can create confident, clear calls to action that will turn your website into a revenue machine. – www.PRPrime.net .

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 11/12/2020

*PLAYA PEOPLE – MEET ZELDA: NOW YOU KNOW…

Zelda has lived in Marina del Rey since December 2008

Now You Know…

Believes in the legalization of all drugs
Loves silent movies
Hates all frozen foods
Loves strawberries
Still has a crush on Johnny Carson
Has fallen asleep in the bathtub many times
Reads three books at a time
Thinks the L.A. Times has become a joke
Never wears socks

*PLAYA – NEWS: CULVER CITY TRADER JOE’S ROBBERY SUSPECT TAKES AT LEAST $1K

Police Saturday sought the public’s help in identifying an armed suspect who robbed a Trader Joe’s in Culver City of approximately $1,000 during a money transfer, also snatching cash from four separate cash registers. Officers received a radio call at 8:45 p.m. Friday of a robbery in progress at a Trader Joe’s at 9290 Culver Blvd., just south of Venice Boulevard, the Culver City Police Department reported. They arrived at the scene within seconds, police said, however the suspect had already fled the location.

He had walked into the store and approached the manager, who was in the process of conducting a money transfer. The man pointed a gun at the manager and demanded money. “After robbing the manager, the suspect approached four separate cashiers at gunpoint and demanded money from their respective registers,” according to a police statement. “The cashiers complied, and the suspect then exited the store and ran towards the parking structure, where he entered an unknown type vehicle, white in color.”

The suspect was described as a male Black, from 20 to 30 years old, approximately 6-feet tall with a thin build wearing a dark blue hoodie and black pants. His vehicle was described as a white four-door sedan. Culver City police urged anyone with information regarding the robbery to call them at 310-253-6316.

*PLAYA – NEWS: NEW MARINA DEL REY SWEET SPOT

Capri Gelato & Coffee Bar, Marina del Rey

Capri Gelato & Coffee Ba rhas brought the taste of the Amalfi Coast to Marina del Rey. With fresh and unique gelatos, sorbettos, a coffee bar and bites, the waterfront community can enjoy a special part of Italy through the delicious and natural menu. The Italian eatery opened its doors to the Marina del Rey community on Oct.17 and served free cups of gelato and sorbetto. Customers not only got their first taste of Capri, Italy, where some of the best gelato in the world is made, but they were also immersed in the scenery and culture.

“It’s such a beautiful thing when you can share something that makes people happy,” says Remi Zimmerman, marketing & events manager and gelato chef at Capri Gelato & Coffee Bar. “I think ice cream and gelato have that ability.” Back when Capri Gelato & Coffee Bar was a catering company, it debuted its mobile gelato and espresso carts at the Golden Globes in 2019 and 2020, which proved to be a big hit and ultimately paved the way for the successful storefront. According to Zimmerman, the owner of Capri Gelato & Coffee Bar, who visited Capri every summer, decided to open in Marina del Rey because he felt the waterfront community shared many similarities with the island in Italy. “It has that similar vibe to Capri,” Zimmerman says.

Zimmerman explains that Capri Gelato & Coffee Bar has a whole gelato case in the store dedicated to sorbettos. These sorbettos also highlight the taste of the Amalfi Coast as they are made from fresh fruit, aren’t frozen and don’t have any purees. They are also vegan and non-dairy. All of the ingredients are fresh and locally grown, as many ingredients are from farmers markets. Because Capri Gelato & Coffee Bar is dedicated to making its dishes with fresh items, the gelato menu changes every two weeks so that everything remains in season. Not only do Capri Gelato & Coffee Bar’s menu items take you to Italy, but so does the atmosphere of the store. Zimmerman says that opening during the pandemic had presented some opportunity as they were able to provide a vacation-like experience during a time when there is no travel.
“We just wanted to create this vacation-inspired spot for locals,” Zimmerman says.

On opening day, some customers said that they had either planned to go to Italy for the summer or had just returned from visiting there. “They were really excited to have gelato flavors and coffee that reminded them of a place or experiences that they have really enjoyed,” Zimmerman adds. The store shows a map of Capri, along with plants and paintings of the Italian island and Los Angeles to demonstrate the best of both worlds. It also showcases lemons on tables and in its food, as lemon trees are prominent in Capri. Aside from ice cream, the store has a variety of other menu items including coffee, pastries, toast and more to garner the authentic experience of dining in Capri. However, your passport to Capri extends beyond your store visit. If you subscribe to their mailing list, you can receive updates twice a week on coffee specials, breakfast items, new menu items, loyalty programs and coupons. They are also currently launching a delivery system with Uber Eats .

For more information on Capri Gelato & Coffee Bar, visit www.caprigelato.com or their Instagram page @caprigelato.

*PLAYA PEOPLE – MEET LINCOLN:

Lincoln has been working in Playa Vista since December 2018.

*PLAYA – CLASSIC CARS:

This 1970 Plymouth GTX, recently seen in Culver City, was restored in 2005 and was given a second repaint in its current black in 2015 by Oceanside Kustoms at a cost of over $15k. Power comes from a 440ci V8 that sends power through a 3-speed automatic transmission.

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*PLAYA – INTERVIEW:

Sit n’ Sleep Culver City,
Assistant Manager | Casey Thayer

Q: Why did you choose to work for Sit N Sleep in the Silicon Beach area? How did you get there?
— I grew up here in Los Angeles, and when I heard about what a great business Sit ’n Sleep was, I had to come check it out.This location is our top performing store, so I had to prove myself working in other Los Angeles stores before being promoted to Assistant Manager here.

Q: Would you have to say has been the forefront of your success in your career? How did you develop your process in your work?
— I grew up with strong values instilled in me by my father, and I’ve been able to excel in my field using the ideals I’ve been taught.

Q: Do you see yourself going beyond the Silicon Beach area. Where are you from?
—I was born and raised here locally, and plan to live here forever!!!

Q: In what ways have you seen the area change since you’ve been here?
— We have noticed a big increase in clients of ours who work in the tech space..they are more online savvy now, which has helped me become very well versed on every type and style of mattress for their needs.

Q: Where are your favorite places in the Silicon Beach that aren’t well known?
– Walking through the Playa Vista area, I love all of the little parks and walking trails, there’s some great little restaurants that my girlfriend and I frequent regularly.

Q: What was your first impression of the Silicon Beach, was it love at first sight or did it take time to adjust?
— It has been cool to see the changes take place here, growing in the area I got to watch it be built from the wetlands up.

Q: What area would you like to see improved the most?
— Obviously anyone driving under any freeway pass or beach area, you can’t help but notice the influx of homelessness increasing at a dramatic rate..there’s a new encampment set up almost daily, and it is heartbreaking to see.

Q: Are there any scenic routes you like to take when going out for the evening or for a regular trip to work?
Vista Del Mar will provide some of the most beautiful views in Southern California, that’s the route I take when I need to relax and find gratitude for the place I live.

Q: How would you best describe the atmosphere of the Silicon Beach, is there anything that stands out to you?
— Silicon Beach would best be described as a high end area with a laid back beach vibe..very successful people have decided that the beach areas is where they prefer to reside, and that space is continuing to grow all the time.

Q: What are your favorite restaurants in the area?
— I love some of the staples, Panini Grill and Blaze pizza are a couple off my go to’s, there’s also amazing poke spots spread all over.

*PLAYA — EVENTS: JAZZ NIGHTS IN PLAYA VISTA

*PLAYA – SEE IT: “IT WASN’T ALWAYS UNDER WATER”

What once was marshland, Marina Del Rey is now North America’s largest man-made small-craft harbor. It currently holds around 5,000 boats and is a popular sunning spot for seals along the docks.

*PLAYA VISTA PEOPLE – Only Originals Allowed!:

*PLAYA – IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD:

Oyster’s appetizer at the new, Bull and Butterfly in Playa Vista.
*PLAYA PEOPLE – MEET REBEL:

Rebel has been working in Culver City since January 2019

Now You Know…

Has been married twice to women and divorced twice
Favorite snack food: Cracker Jacks
Gets Botox for migraines
Loves bowling
Refuses to wear underwear
Danced one night in a Gentlemen’s club and quit
Drove one night for Uber and quit
Favorite President: Reagan
Went to school for massage therapy

*PLAYA – BULLETIN BOARD:

1. *** The food at Urban Plates in Playa Vista is always fresh and extraordinary. And the prices are very reasonable. My whole family loves the place. —– Rhonda T., Playa Vista

2. ***I can appreciate a sentimental or romantic film, but syrupy “chick flicks” are another thing altogether. —- Karen K., Westchester.

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4. ***I am so sick of the noise coming from the homeless at the Lagoon. It’s 2am and they have a white van backed in by the restrooms. They’re blasting their music and talking loudly. You can hear glass bottles hitting the parking lot pavement after consumption. Enough already. Go somewhere else and be disruptive. Honestly. —— Monique La, Playa Del Rey.

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8. ***Coyote sighting Tuesday 11/3 at around 5:00 AM on Cowan Ave between 77th & 80th. —– Phyllis Farrell, Playa Vista.

9. ***Fireworks of any kind, are illegal in Los Angeles County. Annually, fireworks cause brush fires, house fires, millions of dollars in damages, injuries, and even death as it happened in the recent fires that swept CA. Please encourage residents to report any illegal fireworks to law enforcement. Possession or use of illegal fireworks can range from a fine of up to $1000 to one year in county jail. Certain products like m-80’s and m-100’s are considered explosives and are a felony to possess with penalties as high as 16 months in state prison. Parents are also liable for any damage or injuries caused by their children using fireworks. —– Gigi Lopez, Westchester.

10. ***Anyone experiencing low water pressure in the area north of Palms and west of Centinela? —- Leslie Lee, Mar Vista.

Playa Vista People Edited By: Aurora DeRose