DECEMBER 2023/JANUARY 2024
THE HOLIDAY ISSUE
All Is Bright A SEASON OF FESTIVE FUN AND GIVING BACK
More Neuro Experts.
TORRANCE MEMORIAL AND CEDARS-SINAI’S AFFILIATION BRINGS MORE EXPERT CARE AND INNOVATION TO THE SOUTH BAY. More access to state-of-the-art technology and minimally invasive treatments. More multidisciplinary specialists and clinical research. More expert care for our patients and the South Bay. Learn more at MoreNeuroExperts.org Left to Right: Richard Krauthamer, MD, Interventional Radiologist; Jeffrey Quinn, MD, Neurologist; Paula Eboli, MD, Neurosurgeon; Ben Tseng, MD, Neurologist. Opposing page: Monquen Huang, MD, Neurologist.
More Innovation.
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DECEMBER 2023/JANUARY 2024
Traditions, Old & New I am one of those people who truly enjoy picking out the perfect gift, preparing seasonal foods and planning an epic New Year’s Eve celebration. I don’t, however, care for the emphasis on wrapping up this year and moving on to the next one. You know the old saying, “Out with the old, in with the new”? Can we reframe that to “Cherish the old, celebrate the new”?
THE HOLIDAY ISSUE
All Is Bright A SEASON OF FESTIVE FUN AND GIVING BACK
As we move through the holiday season and beyond, let’s cherish our older family members and lifelong friends while still celebrating the babies and new pals. Cherish the long-standing shops and restaurants we have always loved while still celebrating
ISSUE PRESENTED BY:
all the incredible new ones that are opening in our community. Some of the people and places we relied upon are no longer around, so let’s appreciate what we have—patronize our favorite local businesses and embrace our loved ones, old and new. Our issue sponsor, Morgan’s Jewelers, is a great example of this philosophy. Morgan’s Jewelers has been a part of our community for 78 years, and they continue to thrive as the family’s third generation steps in. December will bring a grand reopening of their Torrance showroom, just in time for the holidays. What a fitting way to honor this South Bay family legacy. Here, owner Russ Varon shares a note of thanks: “We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the team at Southbay magazine and our loyal community for your steadfast support over the years. As we approach the New Year, we take this moment to reflect on our journey together—cherishing the relationships formed and the milestones achieved. As we celebrate our 78th year of business, we look forward to inviting you into our newly remodeled showroom for the holidays. From our family to yours, we wish you the happiest of holidays and a healthy, prosperous new year!” On behalf of everyone here at Southbay, I wish you a joyous season filled with people to cherish and times to celebrate!
Jen Turquand Associate Publisher
(310) 375-4471
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42 WHERE THERE’S A WILL Janice Polizzotto
46 WE WILL REBUILD Scott and Stacy Rusher
52 SELF-STARTER
100
Tommy & Atticus
94 GLAD TIDINGS
FEATURES
52
32
Local holiday events
THE OUTLIER A former linebacker, SWAT officer
96
and police academy instructor, Matt
ON FULL DISPLAY
Domyanicic took a turn in his life following
Michelle Craig Sherrier
an injury. Now a chaplain and peer supporter, he helps first responders—
186
particularly the injured and disabled—
LAST WORD
navigate deeper healing.
Riding the Wave
62 SEASON’S TREATINGS
32
Stylish apparel pairs perfectly with festive fare for elegant and elevated hosting inspiration.
100 WITHOUT LIMITS After West Nile virus left Larry Wolf paralyzed, he could have easily withdrawn. Instead, he doubled down on living.
122
136
HOME
ALSO...
122
40
A NEW PERSPECTIVE
PHILANTHROPY SPOTLIGHT
A Manhattan Beach–based interior designer
Chevron El Segundo
142
artfully infuses a fresh take on a family home in the Hill Section.
56 RESTAURANT GUIDE
134
Great dining around town
ESSENTIALS Cabin Fever
75 HOLIDAY WISH LIST
136
Handpicked gift ideas for the season
IN RARE FORM Bridge + Fog
108 PROFILES
142
South Bay Gives Back
NEW CLASSIC A Manhattan Beach family collaborates
130
with both a local architect and a designer
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
to create an impressive new build with a
About:Space
resort-like feel.
152 154
MOODBOARD
A WILD IDEA
J.Harkavy Interiors
The Sea Ranch Lodge
158 DESIGN SHOWCASES The South Bay’s top home professionals
174 REAL ESTATE Spectacular local listings
COVER Photographed by Shane O’Donnell Styled by Tanya Monaghan
Honored to be recognized for
excellent care
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EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
Darren Elms
Michelle Villas
Jen Turquand | 310-528-5351
COPY EDITOR
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
Laura L. Watts
Ajay Peckham
jen.turquand@thegoldenstatecompany.com DIRECTOR OF BRAND PARTNERSHIPS Erika Carrion | 310-897-2424
Yuiko Sugino
DEPUTY EDITORS
erika@thegoldenstatecompany.com
Bonnie Graves (Food & Wine)
DIGITAL MARKETING
Kara Mickelson (Food Style)
Paul Fisher
DIRECTOR OF BRAND PARTNERSHIPS
Jennie Nunn (Home)
PHOTOGRAPHERS
marcie@thegoldenstatecompany.com
WRITERS & CONTRIBUTORS
Fabien & Laura Castro
Tanya Monaghan (Style)
Marcie Gutierrez | 310-947-5404
Adelaide Brannan
CO-GROUP PUBLISHERS
Zoe Alexander
Roger Davies
Jill Epstein
Dionah Austgen
Ryan Garvin
213-309-0052 jill.epstein@thegoldenstatecompany.com
Beth Follert
Taryn Kent
Amber Klinck
Kat Monk
Kat Monk
Shane O’Donnell
Syd Hersh
Quinn Roberts
Adam Potts
310-890-0107
Emily Tecklenburg
Mark Tanner
syd.hersh@thegoldenstatecompany.com
SOUTHBAY IS A DIVISION OF THE GOLDEN STATE COMPANY
MANAGING PARTNERS Charlie Koones
Todd Klawin
MARKETING & OPERATIONS PARTNER/MANAGING DIRECTOR, MEDIA & ANALYTICS | Warren Schaffer VP OF FINANCE | Trish Mentas OPERATIONS DIRECTOR | Allison Jeackjuntra HUMAN RESOURCES | Gaby Coello ACCOUNTING | Janet De La Cruz, Kristian Pennock To learn more about us, visit thegoldenstatecompany.com.
No part of this periodical may be reproduced in any form or by any means without prior written consent from The Golden State Company, LLC. Any and all submissions to this or any of The Golden State Company, LLC publications become the property of The Golden State Company, LLC and may be used in any media. We reserve the right to edit. SUBSCRIPTIONS: info@goldenstate.is or 310-376-7800. Subscriptions are $29 per year. TO OUR READERS: Southbay welcomes your feedback. Please send letters to Reader Response Department, Southbay magazine. Please include your name, address and email. Edited letters may be published. 200 N. Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 110, El Segundo, CA 90245 Tel 310-376-7800 | goldenstate.is | southbay.goldenstate.is
With Gratitude By the time this issue makes its way to your mailbox,
amazing art director, Michelle Villas, and copy editor,
the South Bay will be fully immersed in holiday magic.
Laura Watts. Both are indispensable colleagues with
The Manhattan Beach Pier will once again be illumi-
an amazing attention to detail. Our sales team looks a
nated with lights in anticipation of fireworks. Terranea
bit different at this year’s end. We hired Syd Hersh and
Resort will haul out both tree and menorah for guests
Jill Epstein as group co-publishers and promoted Jen
to admire. Snow will fall at Plaza El Segundo. Santa
Turquand to associate publisher. Together with Erika
will return to Gum Tree in Hermosa. Homes from El
Carrion and Marcie Gutierrez, this dynamic sales team
Segundo to the Peninsula will start to sparkle not long
will herald an exciting 2024. Thank you for ending this
after the Thanksgiving leftovers get gobbled up.
year strong.
Another festive season begins. In uncertain times, some things stay constant. And joyfully so.
Then there’s you, our readers, advertisers and longtime supporters of Southbay. As I tell colleagues from
Maybe that’s why I always dedicate the last letter of
other publications and regions, there’s nowhere quite
the year to all those who make this magazine possible.
like this. You care. You show up. You love where you
It’s a tradition that gives me happiness, and only a small
live. This is more than just a place—it’s a way of life.
gesture dedicated to months of support and service. First, the content. Those wonderful stories that
When a community shows up this strong, it’s not hard to find joy in your work.
capture your neighbors—those you may already know and those you learned about from us. A talented group
Happy Holidays!
of writers and photographers, many of whom have con-
Darren Elms
tributed to us for over a decade, bring these to life each issue. Thank you. Their words and images receive a boost from my
28 |
TANYA MONAGHAN | Tanya is a fashion stylist, style influencer, editor and writer. She has worked for numerous international publications, such as InStyle and GQ, and served as fashion editor for Glamour South Africa. After relocating back home to Manhattan Beach with her husband and three children, she became a guest editor for Southbay where she enjoys shining a light on inspirational people within the community.
SHANE O’DONNELL | Shane is a Wisconsin-born photographer living in the South Bay. His documentary and commercial training bring a realistic and refined style to his work. He photographs catalog, advertising, architecture and travel and has shot for such clients as Budweiser, Hershey, Syfy Channel and Vespa. seelikeshane.com
KARA MICKELSON | A graduate of UCLA and Le Cordon Bleu School of Culinary Arts, Kara trained in Spain and in Napa at the famed French Laundry. She has worked with Food Network chefs Bob Blumer and Giada De Laurentiis and many others on the talk show circuit. She is an on-camera culinary expert, recipe developer, producer, writer and food stylist. Follow @styleddelicious.
| 29
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| 31
the outlier A FORMER LINEBACKER, SWAT OFFICER AND POLICE ACADEMY INSTRUCTOR, MATT DOMYANICIC TOOK A TURN IN HIS LIFE FOLLOWING AN INJURY. NOW A CHAPLAIN AND PEER SUPPORTER, HE HELPS FIRST RESPONDERS—PARTICULARLY THE INJURED AND DISABLED—NAVIGATE DEEPER HEALING. Written by Quinn Roberts | Photographed by Shane O’Donnell
To say Matt Domyanicic has taken
understand myself and others,” shares Matt. “My dad
an untraditional path to becoming a
taught me that being yourself is cool. I had so much
chaplain would be an understatement.
role-modeling from my father, I wanted to continue to
“I am what many people would call an outlier,” says Matt.
That’s exactly what he did. A standout football player in high school and college, Matt spent two years at
Talk to him for just a few minutes, and you are im-
the Air Force Academy and then at Colgate University,
mediately drawn in by his passion, thoughts and ideas
where he played football (middle linebacker position)
for his work and what he’s been through. It’s shaped
and powerlifted.
the person he’s become. He’s been introspective ever since he was a child
He was living exactly as he wanted to at the beginning of his 30s. He’d become a police academy instruc-
growing up in Pittsburgh. He meditated while sitting
tor, a SWAT officer, and a strength and conditioning
in the woods and journaled throughout middle school
coach at Georgetown University, where he led the sports
and high school. Matt looked up to his father, a deeply
ministry. It was then that his world was turned upside
religious man, his entire life.
down. He sustained an injury and had surgery—which,
“He was hard on me and demanded a lot, but I was allowed to express my emotions. I wanted to
34 |
grow as a person and an athlete.”
in hindsight, he never should have undergone. He was then put on medication that caused him to become
“ALL OF US NEED TO USE THE CHALLENGING CIRCUMSTANCES IN OUR LIVES AS OUR PSYCHOLOGICAL, EMOTIONAL AND SPIRITUAL WEIGHT LIFTING TO GET STRONGER. IT’S OFTEN THE PAINFUL EXPERIENCES IN OUR LIVES—WHICH MAY BE OUT OF OUR CONTROL—THAT CAN TEACH US THE GREATEST LESSONS.”
obese and unable to control his bodily functions. Matt no longer recognized the person he’d become. Instead of falling into a deep hole, he chose to do something with this new development in his life—relying on the things he used to do growing up. He moved to the South Bay 14 years ago, beginning a path of functional and integrative medicine to get off the medication he’d been taking since his surgery. His goal was to become a healthier person both physically and emotionally. Matt earned a pastoral theology degree from Loyola Marymount University in 2018 and began doing chaplaincy work soon after that. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he worked with first responders at a rehab facility. His concentration in pastoral theology was spiritual direction, which is an emphasis on spirituality and psychology. The work is about helping people become more aware of where the experience of God, peace, love and meaning is showing up in their daily lives—whether pleasant or painful. “We numb, distract and subconsciously self-medicate rather than deal with uncomfortable thoughts and feelings. Cops can see dozens and hundreds of these things during their career,” says Matt. “If you see others suffer, it’s a moral injury that needs to find an outlet to heal.” His ultimate drive comes from wanting to help others. He can especially relate to first responders on a professional level, but also on an emotional level— knowing the mental toll it can take after a while. “Matt is larger than life,” says retired Manhattan Beach Fire Department Captain Dave Shenbaum. “He walks the walk and talks the talk. He’s built authentic relationships with so many in the company because of how much time he spends at the firehouse just talking, working out and going on ride-alongs.” Dave, who worked as a fireman and paramedic for 29 years, calls Matt a rock star who’s found his true calling. Dave says he’s been heavily influenced by Matt in many ways. “He helped me find more purpose and value in my life. While I was still working, that allowed me to get perspective on the right work-life balance. What cannot be overstated is what a great listener he is—reflective and very patient.”
36 |
Many first responders know Matt on a first-name
and peer support for a surf nonprofit that brings first
basis and see him come around often—not just when
responders from Kansas City to Orange County. Through
things are bad. He hopes that will eventually get first
that organization, he got connected with the chief of
responders to open up to him—about what they’ve
police in Kansas City, who asked him to speak at a SWAT
experienced on the job as well as anything going on in
conference in front of 600 tactical officers.
their lives. “I do everything on a volunteer basis,” Matt explains.
While it was a much bigger crowd than he was used to, Matt accepted and spoke for nearly two hours. He
“I offer 24/7 confidential support and try to be a good
got a lot of great feedback, hearing from people that it
listener at times of crisis intervention, but I also text,
was like he was talking directly to them.
call and meet one-on-one when they are off duty so
“Everything I do with first responders is to try to
people will tell their sacred stories, knowing I’ll listen,
destigmatize and have them get in touch with their
hear, understand and see them without judgment.”
feelings,” he shares. “You can be sentimental, emo-
You would never know it with the way he supports
tional, tender and loving but still be an alpha male.”
others in need, but Matt still deals with the effects of
Ultimately, Matt’s goal is to offer free wellness
his surgery, including pelvic floor and intestinal nerve
events integrating various aspects of fitness and martial
damage. Because of that, it takes him a few hours in
arts, mindfulness and yoga, small group sharing and
the morning to prepare for the day. To help, he takes
fellowship. He hopes to provide a variety of platforms
advantage of cold plunges and the sauna and float tank
where first responders learn to use their unique career
at Pause wellness studio in El Segundo. If those he
experiences as a spiritual path, rather than the experi-
counsels are interested, they sometimes go with him.
ences leading to a breakdown, which happens often in
“All of us need to use the challenging circumstances
these professions.
in our lives as our psychological, emotional and spiritu-
“Cops and firefighters are the best BS detectors on
al weight lifting to get stronger,” says Matt. “It’s often
planet Earth,” says Matt. “It’s how you live your life,
the painful experiences in our lives—which may be out
how you listen to them that they know you care about
of our control—that can teach us the greatest lessons.”
them. And maybe, just maybe, they’ll open the door a
In addition to affecting lives all over Southern California, Matt has also worked with police officers and firefighters from the Kansas City area. He’s the chaplain
little bit to trust you along the way.” To donate to Matt’s cause, visit globalassociates.org/ matt-domyancic. ■
| 37
SEEN
Palos Verdes’ Toast on the Coast Raises a Glass to Education Palos Verdes’ premier food and wine festival featured delectable dishes from the South Bay’s most beloved restaurants, along with live music, wine fines, craft beers and delightful cocktails. With a heartfelt commitment to supporting Peninsula Education Foundation and Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District students and schools, the event was not only a culinary delight but a testament to the power of the community coming together for a noble cause.
Portuguese Bend National Horse Show Peninsula Committee Children’s Hospital presented the 65th annual Portuguese Bend National Horse Show with proceeds benefitting Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. This highly regarded A-rated horse show challenged some of the West Coast’s finest riders with difficult and exciting courses, including the prestigious PCHA Horsemanship Medal Finals. Carole Rowe, Chase Navarro, Hobie Navarro, Mallory Navarro, Marnie Gruen
Rich Lucy and Pat Lucy
38 |
Reed Harman and Nan Harman
Don Tuffli, Martha Tuffli, Ittie Cutting, Warren Cutting
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Chevron team and family members
C AT E G O R Y
Segundo S P E C I Acelebrate L A D V EatRthe T I Sannual I N G El SE CTION Holiday Parade.
INVESTING IN HUMANKIND Chevron El Segundo gives back to the community during the holidays and throughout the year.
C
hevron El Segundo has been
one of only two remaining preserves in
are all in when it comes to supporting the
a vital part of this community
the world for the endangered El Segundo
South Bay’s establishments and commu-
for longer than any of us can
blue butterfly. And the company contrib-
nity resources. “We’re raising our families
remember. When the firm first
utes annually to an array of local charities.
here. Our donations and grants fund
became a South Bay fixture in 1911, its
“We were one of the first neighbors
everything from economic development
primary product was kerosene for lamps.
on the block,” says Jeff Wilson, Chevron’s
to school foundations,” Jeff says. “We are
Today the El Segundo Refinery provides
corporate and government affairs man-
dedicated to being good neighbors and
jobs for more than 1,100 employees and
ager. “We’ve been helping the South Bay
giving back to the community we love.”
500 contractors, and produces gasoline,
go and grow for decades, and we’ve
diesel and jet fuel.
taken pride in helping establish and sup-
Segundo has given more than $10 million
port our community over the years.”
for South Bay K–12 STEM (science, tech-
As responsible caretakers of the environment, Chevron El Segundo maintains
40 |
The Chevron El Segundo employees
Over the last 15 years, Chevron El
nology, engineering and math) programs
S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G S E C T I O N
at various schools. At a recent STEM expo,
P H I L A N T H R O P Y S P OT L I G H T
Chevron team members participated in the annual Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk in Manhattan Beach.
refinery director Fredrick Walker shared his thoughts on the event that supported the Manhattan Beach Education Foundation and Manhattan Beach Middle School. “This is super exciting for us because people and innovation are key to what we do in my industry all the time,” he said. “We have a hands-on experience for kids here today that will make them excited, and hopefully one day we’ll see them making our future better as they become innovators themselves.” Chevron El Segundo has been a founding sponsor for 24 years of the Manhattan Wine Auction, which has raised millions of dollars for the Manhattan Beach Education Foundation. The company
The Chevron Manhattan Beach Grand Prix
offers college scholarships to local high school seniors, has helped fund iPads and computer labs at local schools, sponsors the Red Ribbon Week drug education program, and helped establish the Oceanographic Teaching Station at the Roundhouse Aquarium. Each year Chevron El Segundo participates in both the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk to support education and the Chevron Manhattan Beach Grand Prix, which has raised funds for local charities for over 30 years. “We simply couldn’t be prouder to join families, children, youth from our local schools and amazing athletes from all across the world for what has now become the second-oldest oneday bike race in the country!” Jeff shares.
Chevron participated in a STEM expo supporting the Manhattan Beach Education Foundation.
There’s no better way to celebrate the season than by giving, and Chevron El Segundo is setting a great example.
CHEVRON EL SEGUNDO 324 W. EL SEGUNDO BLVD., EL SEGUNDO 310-615-5342 ELSEGUNDO.CHEVRON.COM | 41
Where There’s a Will A LONGTIME PLAYER IN PHILANTHROPIC CAUSES, JANICE POLIZZOTTO FINDS HER RHYTHM BOOSTING MUSIC EDUCATION. Written & photographed by Kat Monk
Hermosa Beach resident Janice Polizzotto sits at the
didn’t even really want to go to college. My mom once
front of the Van Nuys High School stage, waving her
suggested that I should find a college that offered a
hand to the beat. Tom Morello, guitar player for Rage
degree in socializing.”
Against the Machine, strums his acoustic guitar and sings to a jam-packed auditorium filled with music
College and her bachelor’s degree in business at
students. For Janice, this is just another day on the job.
California State University, Long Beach. She began her
Janice is the interim CEO of Music Will, a nonprofit
professional career in corporate philanthropy with the
organization transforming how music education is
American Honda Foundation after being hired as an
taught in public schools. Music Will donates musical
administrative assistant.
equipment and teaches music teachers how to incor-
“This is when I learned that you can be paid for giv-
porate multiple musical genres into their curriculum—
ing money away,” she says. It wasn’t a planned career
not just classical. They achieve this with the help of
move, but it was pivotal for Janice when she discov-
high-profile artists like Dolly Parton, Idina Menzel
ered that philanthropy could be her future. The Mattel
and Babyface.
Children’s Foundation was next, where she redesigned
A South Bay native, Janice attended North High School in Torrance and spent her summers hanging
42 |
Janice earned her associate’s degree at El Camino
the foundation’s philanthropy and expanded its overseas activities.
with friends at 24th Street in Hermosa Beach. “I was
Janice’s career is proof that an integral part of her
not your best student in high school,” she admits. “I
success has been combining not just her education but
her life experiences and her ability to socialize. Now she
teachers have an opportunity to showcase and perform.
has more than 25 years of experience working in both
“I’ve worked with some incredible mission-focused or-
the private and public sectors with an emphasis on so-
ganizations, but there is something really special about
cial impact, nonprofit management, fundraising, event
what we do at Music Will,” she adds. “The impact that
planning and strategic partnerships.
we have on students and teachers is powerfully life-
Her work at Music Will, formerly known as Little Kids Rock, fulfills on a different level: leading a national movement to bring innovative and inclusive music education to students.
changing and is what fuels me and gives me purpose to get up and face the day.” “Janice brings to the table an unwavering focus on Music Will’s mission as well as the ability to connect
“As a result, students see themselves reflected in
with the full range of our stakeholders, from students
their classes, which strengthens their connection to
to major donors,” says Jay Vyas, chair of Music Will’s
their school, their peers and their community,” Janice
national board of directors. “Her can-do attitude is
says. “We can start a new program in a school for as
infectious, and it’s been great to work with her.”
little as $6,500, and that includes training and instru-
Noting how music lifts the heart and soothes the
ments. Teachers are realizing our program is very
soul, Janice shares that she might not have planned for
complementary to what music programs already have
this detour in her career, but she loves every moment.
in place.”
Wherever she can leverage social wisdom into social
Annually, the program hosts an event where the
good, she’s game. ■
| 43
SEEN
Art310 ART310 is a live and silent auction presented by PSM Communication Arts raising money for Indivisible Arts
Jackie Simms, Jim Lindberg, Brent Broza, Jonny Simms
Victoria White, Stacy Titoni, Taylor Titoni
PHOTOGRAPHED BY JP CORDERO
programs for creativity and mental health.
Hammitt on Holiday Local darling Hammitt took over Manhattan Village for their famous handbag bash, attended by hundreds of collectors from near and far. Festivities included Mediterranean-inspired photos, Greek food, a silent disco and, naturally, shopping. “We’re very touched by the enthusiasm, joy and memories created here today,” said Hammitt founder Tony Drockton.
Belen Gulick, Tony Drockton, Shelley Montanez-Ramirez
44 |
Howie Mandel and Terry Mandel
Dana Ingram Kaputska and family
PHOTOGRAPHED BY KELTON MATTINGLY
Tony Drockton, Shelley Montanez-Ramirez, Daniel Drockton, Tatum DeLaney, Riley Drockton
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We Will Rebuild MANHATTAN BEACH RESIDENTS SCOTT AND STACY RUSHER LOST THEIR LĀHAINĀ, HAWAII, HOME IN THE DEVASTATING FIRE. THEY SOOTHED THEIR SADNESS BY SPRINGING INTO ACTION, COLLECTING NECESSITIES TO HELP THEIR NEIGHBORS. Written & photographed by Kat Monk
Although Scott and Stacy Rusher could see that the
We watched the power lines swinging and ended up
that they had nothing to worry about. But when Scott,
spending the entire night on the road,” says Scott.
Stacy and their youngest son, Kalani, along with his
“We met some cool people. I wish we had gotten their
girlfriend, Katherine, saw a fire in the distance from
full names.” The Rushers’ home was destroyed by the
their home, they made their own decision to evacuate.
fire, leaving only ashes and the skeletal remains of
Though Hawaiian Electric shut down power in the area,
their bicycles.
a spark started a raging wildfire that moved fast and turned indiscriminately with the wind. As they left their home, they saw 50 or more neigh-
Packing for a Lāhainā visit was never necessary; they had everything already there—pickleball equipment, paddleboards, surfboards, clothes, bicycles. “It was
bors walking with suitcases and other possessions on
the place where, as soon as we got off the airplane, all
the road out. But it wasn’t until they became stuck in a
of the stress and tension melted away and my blood
long line of cars that they began to realize the serious-
pressure dropped,” says Scott. “We had it so dialed in. I
ness of the situation. The Rushers attempted to return
would travel with only a backpack with my work stuff.”
to their house, but a security guard for their HOA community advised them against it. “I always thought we were safe from fire because we
Grateful that they had their home in Manhattan Beach to return to, the family launched a relief effort to help their neighbors who were not as fortunate.
had a fire hydrant so close to our property, but the wa-
They coordinated a donation drive, with the help of The
ter was turned off,” explains Scott. A firefighter staying
Jimmy Miller Memorial Foundation, to collect clothes
next door to their friend’s house stated he wasn’t
and necessities for displaced residents in Maui. So far
leaving because “the way the winds were blowing, the
they have shipped close to 100 boxes.
fire would not come this way,” Scott remembers. “It
“So many people stepped up to help, and the people
was surreal, the way it played out due to the lack of
in Lāhainā will continue to need help for a long time,”
information.”
says Stacy. “But much of it is beyond what most people
The sky was blue while gale-force winds poured down the mountains and accelerated in gusts up to 67 miles per hour, according to the National Weather
can do. The best thing is to find a good charity and donate funds to help those struggling.” In the Rushers’ neighborhood alone, 94 of 240 homes
Service. The winds sucked away the remaining moisture
were destroyed by the fire. “It’s going to be a long pro-
in an already parched vegetation, turning the landscape
cess to rebuild,” says Scott. The couple had plans drawn
into tinder. Officials estimated that the fire moved a
up for a rebuild prior to the fire, but the toxic waste
mile a minute and its path pivoted with the wind—
from the fire must be cleaned up first.
leaving a scattered path of destruction.
46 |
“There is just one road north and one road south.
winds were blustery, Lāhainā news told Maui residents
Currently there is a lack of housing for displaced
| 47
residents and a limited amount of construction labor. Permits were already slow to be approved, and this tragedy takes the process to an entirely new level. Lāhainā will always hold a special place in the Rusher family’s hearts. “I still haven’t come to grips with the fact that the entire town is gone,” Scott admits. Even if it takes several years to rebuild, they will rebuild. Scott grew up going to Lāhainā with his parents in the mid-1970s. He proposed to Stacy on top of Mount Haleakalā. Of course they honeymooned there too, and their children’s names, Keala, Malia and Kalani, are further evidence of their love for Hawaii. “We know there will be roadblocks and delays, but we are staying positive and moving forward,” says Stacy. “To us, there is no better place to visit and live.” She shares the Hawaiian phrase “Lāhainā nō ka ‘oi,” meaning “Lāhainā is the best.” ■
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Celebrate Wellness 2023 Cancer Support Community South Bay’s 26th annual Celebrate Wellness generated record-breaking proceeds of $428,000 to benefit free support programs offered by CSC South Bay for cancer patients and their families. A sold-out crowd of 600 sampled fare from 30 of the finest restaurants and beverage companies as they strolled through the late afternoon garden party.
Steve Lottenberg, Nancy Lomibao, Jillian Van Leuven, Ruth Schriebman
Jennifer LaMarque, Kyle Kazan, Diane Kazan, Kelly Cross, Keoni Kazan
Josh Cohen, Jackie Suiter, Chef Adam Perry Lang, Shelly Rocker
Kelli Vieweg, Jim Hunter, Joanne Hunter
Tiffany Roberts, Jackie Suiter, Kris Nishihira
Katie Adams and Jerod Cuza
Jonna Werts, Russ Lesser, Charlotte Lesser, Cathy Tiano, Andrew Werts
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Self-Starter FROM HOBBY TO PASSION, GARRETT MCPERRY’S LOVE OF BAKING FINDS A PERMANENT HOME AT TOMMY & ATTICUS IN REDONDO BEACH Written by Quinn Roberts | Photographed by Adelaide Brannan
When Garrett McPerry was young, he dreamed of opening
Getting just a few hours of sleep during this time,
an ice cream shop. Now at age 34, his dream took a sweet
Garrett realized it was time to make a decision. With
turn toward reality. Garrett and his wife, Lauren, own
support from Lauren, he decided to switch careers. He
Tommy & Atticus—a Redondo Beach bakery that in just a
began working at Gjusta Bakery in Venice and honed his
short time has become a go-to place for the community.
craft. He went from being a self-taught baker to shap-
One of the coolest things about Tommy & Atticus is
ing 200 loaves a day.
that customers can see the entire process right as they
Once Garrett got furloughed from Gjusta, he started
walk through the doors. Bags of flour are piled over to
taking measured steps toward opening his bakery. He
the side, bread goes into the oven, and the timer signals
got into a few farmers markets, including Hermosa
when bread and pastries are done.
Beach, where everything he sold became a hit. He’d get
But where did the name Tommy & Atticus come
there at 11:30 a.m., and people were already waiting in
from? Tommy was Garrett’s friend and roommate when
line to buy bread—even though the market didn’t of-
he started making sourdough starters. Atticus was his
ficially open until noon.
neighbor’s dog.
With such success in Hermosa Beach, Garrett and
“I liked that it was different, not just ‘Garrett’s
Lauren began having thoughts in August 2021 about
Bread.’ People think I’m either Tommy or Atticus,” he
opening a bakery. They specifically had their eyes on a
says with a laugh.
place just four blocks from where they live in Redondo
Before starting his bakery—and even before he
Beach. With hard work, a little luck and help from the
started baking bread—he worked as a certified public
community, that location at 1700 Aviation Boulevard be-
accountant. It was only after watching Cooked, a docu-
came Tommy & Atticus, officially opening in July 2023.
mentary by Michael Pollan, that a true interest in food
Before the big opening, Garrett and Lauren needed
and culture began. “He [Pollan] challenged people to pick one item and make it from scratch, so I decided to make bread. It took me about a month to make my first sourdough starter,” says Garrett. “The only way to get better—especially with bread—is to keep doing it. I was giving loaves away to friends, and they were saying, ‘We will pay you for this.’” In the beginning Garrett thought he’d just make some extra money, but the momentum kept building. He started at one day a week, then two days and then three. He would bake loaves at 2 a.m., drop them off at friends’ and neighbors’ places and then go to work.
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“BAKERIES BRING COMMUNITIES TOGETHER. OUR HEARTS ARE SO FULL. FOOD IS LIKE OUR LOVE LANGUAGE.”
more help to get Tommy & Atticus up and running, so they asked for help from the community. The initial
“I’m here every week to get a slice,” says Richard
goal for their Kickstarter campaign was $23,000.
Pose, who lives in Culver City. “You can tell Garrett’s
That was met in just under three days. The final total
passion for what he’s making and the excitement he gets
pledged from 270 backers was $36,135.
in telling customers how the entire process works.”
“The first day of school earlier this year we had 15
Garrett and Lauren have plenty of ideas for the
parents in here who had just dropped off their kids
future of Tommy & Atticus. Come 2024, they want to
and sat at our big table. That’s exactly what we wanted
have dedicated pizza nights and even a bagel program.
to create: a spot for the community,” says Lauren.
Another focus in the future will be open mic nights and
“Bakeries bring communities together. Our hearts are
local bands playing.
so full. Food is like our love language.” Customers steadily stream into the bakery the last
54 |
coming in because they know how good it is.
“You can see him today loving all of this. I’ll catch him looking at a loaf of bread and loving it. He is so
hour or so because they offer a few different kinds
in his element and happy and at ease,” says Lauren.
of pizza by the slice. This is when you’ll see parents
“Nothing is more inspiring than seeing someone follow
coming in with their kids to share a slice and regulars
their passion.” ■
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Restaurant Guide The holidays are here! Our local restaurants are ready to welcome you for a delicious meal or to host a festive event. We offer a closer look at venues ready to take your reservation and give you a memorable dining experience.
Captain Kidds Fish Market & Restaurant
COMPAGNON Wine Bistro
Fansea Sushi
COMPAGNON Wine Bistro pays tribute to
Family-owned Japanese restaurant
Serving the freshest seafood in the South
the classic southern French bistros where
brings a great dining experience to
Bay since 1976. A Redondo Beach land-
good food, good wine and friends come
Manhattan Beach with amazing ocean
mark in the heart of King Harbor. Multiple
together to create the special joie de vivre.
views, beautiful sunsets, and fresh-quality
indoor-outdoor patios and seafood delivered daily.
sushi and sashimi. 335 W. 7th St., San Pedro 424-342-9840
302 Rosecrans Ave., Manhattan Beach
209 N. Harbor Drive, Redondo Beach
compagnonbistro.com
424-398-0083
310-372-7703 | captainkidds.com
IG: @compagnon_winebistro
fanseasushi.com
IG: @captainkidds
FB: @compagnonwinebistro
IG: @fansea.sushi
restaurant guide
Fishing with Dynamite
Gabi James
Good Stuff Restaurants
Fishing with Dynamite offers a rustic
We bring Spanish and coastal French
This 43-year-old staple features delicious
menu of playful, artisanal dishes comple-
food with California soul to the South Bay,
food, friendly staff and iconic locations.
mented by artfully crafted cocktails and
alongside an innovative bar rooted in gin
Voted Best Outdoor Dining, Best Family
small-production wines.
that’s not to be rivaled.
Restaurant and Best Restaurant People!
1142 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach
1810 S. Catalina Ave., Redondo Beach
1286 The Strand, Hermosa Beach
310-893-6299
310-540-4884
1617 S. PCH, Suite 102, Redondo Beach
eatfwd.com
gabijamesla.com
550 Deep Valley Dr., Suite 151, Rolling Hills Estates
@eat_fwd
IG: @gabijamesla
131 W. Grand Ave., Suite C, El Segundo eatgoodstuff.com | IG: @eatgoodstuff
Great American International Seafood Market
Little Sister
Manhattan Beach Post
Menu showcases the rich collisions of food
MB Post is a social house where guests
Shop fresh fish and so much more at our
and culture from the European colonization
come for dinner but stay for the spirited
family-owned market, with a curated mix of
of Southeast Asia. Join us for lunch, dinner
and engaging atmosphere.
seafood products, specialty ingredients and
and happy hour!
ready-to-eat salads. Gift cards available.
1148 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach 247 Avenida del Norte, Redondo Beach
310-545-5405
Golden Cove Center
424-398-0237 | IG: @littlesisterrb
eatmbpost.com
31224 Palos Verdes Dr. W., Rancho Palos Verdes
830 S. Pacific Coast Hwy., Suite 100, El Segundo
@eat_mbpost
310-750-6074 | greatamericanseafoodmarket.com
424-835-9878 | dinelittlesister.com
IG: @great_american_seafood_market
IG: @littlesister_thepoint
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
| 57
restaurant guide
Mercado
Patrick Molloy’s
A traditional yet contemporary experience
A neighborhood pub bringing decades
Playa Hermosa Fish & Oyster Co.
of elevated Mexican cuisine accessible to
of hospitality to Hermosa Beach with
At the waterfront of Hermosa Beach
everyone! Join us today and enjoy daily
innovative cocktails and delicious pub food
Pier, we provide elegant, family-friendly
food and drink features, happy hours and
favorites. A modern twist on Irish heritage!
service with fresh seafood, steaks, wine
private dining.
and spirits, and an extravagant raw bar. 50A Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach
Manhattan Village
310-798-9762
19 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach
3212A N. Sepulveda Blvd., Manhattan Beach
patrickmolloys.com
310-504-0088
310-545-0388 | IG: @mercadomanhattanbeach
IG: @patrickmolloys
playahermosaoyster.com
cocinasycalaveras.com/mercado-mb-menu
IG: @playahermosaoyster
Primo Italia
Pura Vita
R/10 Social House
For generations, our families have enjoyed
100% plant-based Italian restaurant serving
Located in Redondo Beach’s Marina, R/10
the tradition of homemade pastas, sauces,
house-made pastas and Neapolitan pizza.
Social House is a neighborhood gastropub
vino e dolci—and we invite you to partici-
Organic, sustainable, clean ingredients and
offering farm-to-table food, handcrafted
pate in that culinary heritage.
gluten-free options. Enjoy our full bar serv-
cocktails and a selection of intriguing,
ing natural biodynamic wines and organic
affordable artisan beers and wines.
24590 Hawthorne Blvd., Torrance
craft cocktails with a sunset view.
310-378-4288
179 N. Harbor Dr., Redondo Beach
eatprimo.com
320 S. Catalina Ave., Redondo Beach
310-798-2500 | r10socialhouse.com
IG: @primo_italia
424-304-2247 | puravitalosangeles.com
IG: @r10socialhouse
IG: @puravitaredondo
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
restaurant guide
Riera’s Place
Riviera Mexican Grill
Rock & Brews
A family-run deli offering a wide range
Serving the best Mexican food in the
Founded in 2010 by Paul Stanley and
of breakfast burritos, sandwiches, salads,
South Bay since 1996. Enjoy our famous
Gene Simmons of KISS, Rock & Brews
fresh poké, Sicilian-style pizzas and
fish tacos and margaritas; multiple out-
started in El Segundo and has since
catering services. Monday through
door patios. See you at the Riv.
become a nationwide hospitality concept.
1615 S. Pacific Coast Hwy., Redondo Beach
143 Main St., El Segundo, 310-648-8995
1908 S. Pacific Coast Hwy., Redondo Beach
310-540-2501
6300 S. Pacific Coast Hwy., Redondo Beach,
310-316-1908
therivmex.com
310-378-4647
rierasplace.com
IG: @therivmex
rockandbrews.com
Saturday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Closed Sunday.
IG: @rierasplace
IG: @rockandbrews
Rock’N Fish
RYLA
Sea Level
At the foot of the Manhattan Beach Pier—
RYLA features coastal California cuisine
Premiere waterfront restaurant at Shade
a welcoming spot filled with delicious
imbued with Japanese flavors from our
Hotel Redondo Beach featuring California
food, spirits and warm smiles. Our menu
very own Chef Ray Hayashi and his wife,
coastal cuisine, indoor-outdoor seating
is American regional cuisine highlighting
Chef Cynthia Hetlinger.
fire pits, happy hour, weekend brunch
seafood, steaks and seasonal specialties.
and events like Christmas and NYE. 1220 Hermosa Ave., Hermosa Beach
120 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach
424-247-9881
655 North Harbor Dr., Redondo Beach
310-379-9900
eatryla.com
rb.shadehotel.com/dine
mb.rocknfish.com
@eat_ryla
310-921-8950
IG: @rocknfishmb
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
IG: @sealevelrb | 59
restaurant guide
Simmzy’s
The Arthur J
Simmzy’s is a neighborhood hangout
Steak & Whisky American Tavern
that serves a simple, delicious burger and
Enjoy handcrafted cocktails, by-the-glass
house celebrating the time-honored
quality craft beer.
wines and classic dishes from a chef-driven
tradition of cooking steaks over a hot
menu in the cozy ambience of an intimate
wood fire and smoking embers.
229 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach
The Arthur J is a neighborhood steak-
dining room. 903 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach
310-546-1201 simmzys.com
117 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach
310-878-9620
@simmzys
310-318-5555
thearthurj.com
steakandwhisky.com
@the_arthur_j
IG: @swtable
The Brews Hall
The Original Red Onion
The Rockefeller
A family-friendly craft brewery with four
Celebrating its 60th anniversary, the Red
The South Bay’s original gastropub, with
food concepts and a full bar in partner-
Onion Restaurant has been a Palos Verdes
locations in Redondo Beach, Hermosa
ship with sportscaster Colin Cowherd.
favorite for three generations. Still owned
Beach and Manhattan Beach. Locally
Featuring a spacious atmosphere and
and operated by the founding family.
owned since 2011.
wall-to-wall large-screen TVs! 736 Bart Earle Way, Rolling Hills Estates
1707 S. Catalina Ave., Redondo Beach
21770 Del Amo Circle East, Torrance, 310-294-9838
310-377-5660
418 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach
73 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach, 424-348-0800
originalredonion.com
1209 Highland Ave., Manhattan Beach
thebrewshall.com
eatrockefeller.com | IG: @eatrockefeller
IG: @thebrewshall
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
restaurant guide
The Strand House
Tin Roof Bistro
Enjoy 180° sweeping views of the Pacific
Tin Roof Bistro embodies the vision of a
Ocean and a California Coastal menu
wine country locals’ hangout—a casual,
highlighting the bounty of produce avail-
fun atmosphere combined with chef-
able year-round in Southern California.
inspired cuisine.
117 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach
3500 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Manhattan Beach
310-545-7470
310-939-0900
thestrandhousemb.com
tinroofbistro.com
IG: @strandhousemb
@tinroofbistro
Watch for the 2024 Restaurant Guide in our June/July and Holiday issues! To sign up email jen.turquand@ thegoldenstatecompany.com or call 310-528-5351
Un Caffè Altamura
zinc@shade
We’re hosting, so you don’t need to.
Located inside Shade Hotel Manhattan
Let’s reinvent holiday fare, pairings
Beach, we fuse coastal lifestyle and L.A.
included! Cheers!
nightlife for an upbeat atmosphere. Perfect for your next event! Check out our
1140 Highland Ave., Manhattan Beach
festive Christmas dinner and NYE events.
310-546-4663 IG: @un.caffe.altamura
1221 N. Valley Dr., Manhattan Beach mb.shadehotel.com/dine 310-698-5559 IG: @shadehotelmb
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
| 61
season’s treatings STYLISH APPAREL PAIRS PERFECTLY WITH FESTIVE FARE FOR ELEGANT AND ELEVATED HOSTING INSPIRATION. Photographed by Shane O’Donnell | Food styled by Kara Mickelson | Fashion styled by Tanya Monaghan Hair by Dionah Austgen | Makeup by Beth Follert
Black tulle corset dress by BCBGMAXAZRIA, $348; bloomingdales.com. Sequined heels by I.N.C., $90; Macy’s at Manhattan Village in Manhattan Beach. 18k gold black onyx and diamond ring, $5,650, and 18k diamond and black onyx bracelet by Damaso, $18,950, 18k gold diamond scatter necklace by Norman Coven, $18,850, 18k gold diamond choker by Morgan’s, $8,450, 18k white and gold diamond enamel domed bracelets, $6,500 each, 18k gold diamond and onyx domed ring, $6,850; all at Morgan’s Jewelers in Torrance.
Black velvet strapless midi dress by Self-Portrait, $540; FWRD.com. Faux pearl mini crossbag by AQUA, $46; bloomingdales.com. Morgan’s white South Sea pearl studs, $1,825, 18” 8mm pearl strand necklace with 14k white matte ball clasp, $1,450, 23” 18k pearl strand with 18k yellow gold clasp, $2,795, Morgan’s Akoya 28” pearl strand with 14k yellow gold clasp, $3,350, 18k gold diamond flat Cuban link bracelet by Arat, $18,950, Morgan’s double strand pearl bracelet with diamonds, $2,890, Morgan’s 18k white gold wide lattice diamond bracelet, $32,850, Morgan’s Akoya South Sea spiral ring with diamonds and 18k gold, $3,550, Morgan’s white South Sea pearl ring with a diamond bypass design, $3,680. All fine jewelry from Morgan’s Jewelers in Torrance. Right page All fine jewelry courtesy of Morgan’s Jewelers in Torrance.
OYSTERS WITH MIGNONETTE SAUCE Recipe courtesy Walter Nunez, The Rex Seaside Steakhouse in Redondo Beach Makes 2½ cups 1 cup plus 1¼ teaspoons sake small piece konbu (2–3 inches in length) 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar ½ teaspoon salt, or more to taste 1 medium Granny Smith apple, peeled and finely diced freshly cracked black pepper, to taste In a medium saucepan over medium heat, reduce sake by half. Add konbu; remove from heat and let mixture cool. Add rice wine vinegar and salt. Let sauce rest for 2 hours at room temperature. Prior to serving, add apples, pepper and more salt, to taste.
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CHERRY LIME PISCO SOUR Makes 1 cocktail 2 ounces 100% cherry juice
Add all ingredients into a shaker. Shake
In a small saucepan over medium heat,
2 ounces pisco sour
vigorously for two minutes. Pour into a
combine the sugar, lime juice and cherry
2 ounces fresh-squeezed lime juice
glass. Add bitters and a couple drops of
juice and bring to a low boil. Reduce to a
1½ tablespoons pasteurized liquid
Cherry Lime Simple Syrup to the top. Enjoy.
simmer and cook until sugar is dissolved,
100% egg whites (recipe follows) cherry bitters
about 4 minutes. Remove from heat. Cool Cherry Lime Simple Syrup
and store in refrigerator. Can be made a
1/3 cup granulated sugar
week in advance.
juice of one lime 1/3 cup cherry juice
RECIPE BY KARA MICKELSON
½ ounce Cherry Lime Simple Syrup
Red strapless sequined dress by Cinq à Sept, $348; bloomingdales.com. Rosecut diamond bangle, $19,500, diamond fringe earrings, $10,000, diamond baby ID bracelet by Sylva & Cie, $13,625; all at Hamilton Butler Jewels in Hermosa Beach. Black strapped heels by Steve Madden, $90; Macy’s at Manhattan Village in Manhattan Beach.
| 67
Ray dress in gold by Sabina Musayev, $490; revolve.com. Black onyx and diamond deco ring by Dove’s, $8,850, 18k gold black onyx and diamond ring by Damaso, $5,650, 18k gold diamond and onyx domed ring, $6,850, 18k white and gold diamond enamel domed bracelets, $6,500 each; all at Morgan’s Jewelers in Torrance. 14k gold diamond hoops, $19,000; Hamilton Butler Jewels in Hermosa Beach. Right page Osetra caviar provided by Great American International Seafood Market in Rancho Palos Verdes, greatamericanseafoodmarket.com
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Floral by Elizabeth Grace Floral, elizabethgracefloral.com Gold Maris mini crossbody clutch by Cult Gaia, $328; FWRD.com Right page Lime dress by Retrofête, $595; FWRD. com. Grey diamond bracelet by Sylva & Cie, $52,125; Hamilton Butler Jewels in Hermosa Beach. 18k gold with green tourmaline necklace with diamond details, $14,500; Morgan’s Jewelers in Torrance. Black strapped heels by Steve Madden, $90; Macy’s at Manhattan Village in Manhattan Beach.
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Sequined cross neck gown by Mac Duggal, $498; macduggal.com. 18K pink tourmaline earrings by Sylva & Cie, $13,125, 18k aquamarine and diamond ring, $11,898, 18k aquamarine and diamond ring, $8,400, 18k aquamarine and sapphire ring, $5,880; Hamilton Butler Jewels in Hermosa Beach. 18k rose gold ring by Savoia with tanzanite, emerald and diamonds, $8,350, 18k gold cuff with pink and green tourmaline and diamond accents by Julls, $16,850; Morgan’s Jewelers in Torrance. Right page Assorted fine jewelry courtesy of Hamilton Butler Jewels in Hermosa Beach. Macarons by Bottega Louie.
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Get your tickets now for
A Very La Venta Holiday! Sunday, December 3rd 11:00am - 2:00pm • • • • • •
Fresh Wreath Decorating Cookie Decorating Professional Family Photos Delightful Holiday Cuisine Cocktails from Gray Whale Gin And More!
Visit laventa.com/communityevents for tickets 796 Via Del Monte, Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
HOLIDAY WISH LIST Our annual holiday gift guide highlights the latest trends in fashion, jewelry and home goods available at local retailers for all of your gifting needs. Don’t let the season’s best and brightest pass you by!
E D I T E D BY L A U R A L . WAT T S S P EC I A L A D V E RT I S I N G S EC T I O N
HOLIDAY WISH LIST
Morgan’s Jewelers 22200 Hawthorne Blvd., Torrance 310-375-4471 morgansjewelers.com @morgansjewelers As Morgan’s Jewelers celebrates their 78th anniversary, they invite you into their newly remodeled showroom for an unforgettable shopping experience featuring engagement rings, fine jewelry and luxury timepieces. Built upon a foundation of unique style and uncompromising quality, the South Bay’s largest full-service jeweler continues to thrive as their family’s third generation steps in to carry on the family legacy. Come in and experience the difference.
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
HOLIDAY WISH LIST
6 7
8 9 10
1.
Dorian & Rose 14 karat yellow gold paperclip chain with diamonds, $5,450
4.
Fern Freeman 18 karat yellow gold, diamond and onyx domed wave ring, $6,850
8.
Savoia 18 karat rose gold, emerald, tanzanite and diamond Toi et Moi ring, $8,350
2.
ANAHITA 18 karat yellow gold, frosted white topaz, rainbow moonstone and diamond celestial pendant on 18 karat yellow gold chain, $9,500
5.
Damaso 18 karat yellow gold, black onyx and diamond bracelet, $18, 950
9.
Fern Freeman 18 karat yellow gold diamond and tsavorite snake bracelet, $8,950
6.
Lauren K 18 karat yellow gold, green tourmaline and diamond drop earrings, $3,850
10. JULLS 18 karat yellow gold, green
3.
Fern Freeman 18 karat yellow gold, diamond and onyx dagger earrings, $7,650
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
7.
tourmaline and diamond mixed shape necklace, $14,500
Roberto Coin 18 karat yellow gold zodiac medallions, $4,610
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HOLIDAY WISH LIST
Tabula Rasa Essentials Tabula Rasa Essentials is an award-winning gift shop that makes holiday shopping exciting and convenient. The store features a large selection of unique gifts and festive finds, free gift-wrapping, and shipping to anywhere in the U.S. All merchandise is selected by owner Maureen McBride and her team, often supporting local artisans and small-business manufacturers. Find wonderful treasures for everyone on your list! 919A Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach 310-318-3385 tabularasaessentials.com tabularasamb
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Celebrity Who’s Who game, $16
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Jellycat Christmas Grizzo, $38
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Lighted glass trees, $36 to $78
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Red Currant Journey candle, $48
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Old St. Nick square serving bowl, $109
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Bowie knit hats, $30 to $36 each
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Hair tie bracelets, set of 5, $24
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Weekender carryall bag, $165 each
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Voluspa Noble Fir Garland candles, $12 to $78
10. Xmas tree hat nutcracker, $135 each
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HOLIDAY WISH LIST
Manhattan Village Find all the must-have brands, mouthwatering food and exciting entertainment this holiday season in one easy location: Manhattan Village, Manhattan Beach. 3200 Sepulveda Blvd., Manhattan Beach 310-546-5555 shopmanhattanvillage.com @manhattanvillage
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HOLIDAY WISH LIST
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Johnny Was Brooklyn long set— Sweet Bouquet, $298 Johnny Was cozy robe—Vintage Rose, $270 Johnny Was California Sunset candle, $58
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Heyday gift card
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gorjana classic diamond drop earrings, $320
Heyday Venn Probiotics Cica Complex Biome Booster, $165
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Topdrawer Keeley sling bag, $245
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gorjana go-to bracelet set, $118
10. Topdrawer Lanton tweed faux fur
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gorjana diamond Lou helium ring (stackable), $460
house slippers, $75
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HOLIDAY WISH LIST
Gum Tree Gum Tree is celebrating its 15th year in business in the South Bay! Our shops have all you need for a festive holiday season. Come to us for one-of-a-kind gifts, home décor, jewelry and more. We love to gift wrap, and it’s always free! 238 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach 310-376-8744 324 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach 310-318-2990 gumtreela.com @gumtree_la
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Blush Sawyer baby cardigan, $56
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Jellycat Isadora unicorn, $60
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Oatmeal pom-pom beanie, $35
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Metallic stripe beaded clutch, $68
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Love To Eat: 75 Easy, Craveworthy Recipes for Healthy, Intuitive Eating by Nicole Keshishian Modic, $32.50
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Practical Magic Apothecary holiday cocktail kit, $34
7.
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Zoe Chicco 14k gold and diamond circle necklace, $495
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JLynn moonstone Valerie bracelet, $92
10. Mermaid glass ornament, $18.50
Champagne 10 oz. candle, $42
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HOLIDAY WISH LIST
Skechers For approximately three decades, Skechers has been the neighborhood shoe store serving Manhattan Beach and the South Bay community. From comfy styles to innovative performance footwear, Skechers is the one-stop shop for gifting everyone on your list. 1121 Manhattan Blvd., Manhattan Beach 310-318-3116 Del Amo Fashion Center, Torrance 310-542-2333 skechers.com @skechers
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Skechers Hands Free Slip-ins®: Glide-Step Swift – Prose, $100
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Skechers Hands Free Slip-ins®: Ultra Flex 3.0 – Pastel Clouds, $55
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SKX Fusion Wave pickleball paddle, $100
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Skechers Hands Free Slip-ins®: Glide-Step Swift – Love Bomb, $100
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Eden LX – Glimpse of Glitter, $70
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Skechers GO GOLF Max Fairway 4, $85
Sport Court 92 – Sheer Shine, $75
Skechers Hands Free Slip-ins®: Ultra Flex 3.0 – Brisk Spec, $55
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Skechers Pickleball Viper Court Pro, $115
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10. Skechers GO GOLF Max Fairway 4, $85
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HOLIDAY WISH LIST
Waterleaf Waterleaf opened in 2006 with a combined space for interior design and retail in our flagship Metlox location. Within five years we opened a larger connecting retail space for Waterleaf Home. Whether it’s creating a beautiful tablescape or finding the perfect gift, pillows, decor, bedding and art—or designing your home from the ground up—the Waterleaf team can help you! 1210 Morningside Dr., Manhattan Beach 310-546-5400 waterleafhome.com | waterleafinteriors.com @waterleafhome | @waterleafinteriors
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Pickleball necklace 14K gold with diamonds, 16” chain, .5” charm, $650
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Holiday toile pajamas, $128
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Slim Aarons: The Essential Collection, $175
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Coqui Coqui Perfumes diffuser, $175
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Simon Pearce five-sided evergreen glass trees, $175 to $375
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Sea blue glass bowl, $130
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Coastal Santa, $49
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Italian herringbone throws, $125 each
10. Mahjong board, $200
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Luster blue wine glasses, set of 4, $72
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HOLIDAY WISH LIST
Maison Luxe Serving the South Bay for more than 20 years, Maison Luxe is a home goods store owned by interior designer Carrie Quinn, featuring a fabric library, furniture, gifts, candles and accessories for the home and wardrobe. 138 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach 310-372-5552 maisonluxehome.com @maisonluxehb
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Windsor hoop earrings, 18k gold plate and cubic zirconia in small, medium or large, $110 to $155
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Jute reindeer in small (6”), medium (11”), large (17”), $17 to $73
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Stadium pin map—NFL, NHL, MLB, NBA—small (16” x 28”), large (24” x 36”), $90 to $150
4.
Balsam & cedar mercury ornament, $37
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HOLIDAY WISH LIST
Medawar Fine Jewelers Medawar Fine Jewelers is a third-generation family business offering fine jewelry designs from all over the world, fine watches and clocks, and an in-house custom design and service center—all in a warm and welcome environment. 810-C Bart Earle Way, Rolling Hills Estates 310-544-0052 medawarfinejewelers.com | @medawarfinejewelers
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Bizzotto medallion pendant, 18kt yellow gold with diamonds, .23cts, $3,630
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Bizzotto cuff bracelet, 18kt yellow gold with diamonds, .33cts, $13,410
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Zydo double row illusion, 18kt white gold with diamonds, .98cts, $5,200
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Longines Dolce Vita women’s watch, diamond-lined in stainless steel, $4,200
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HOLIDAY WISH LIST
Noelle Interiors Noelle Interiors, your artistic partner in interior design, guides you through every stage of design, construction and furnishings. Explore their beachside showroom for custom furniture, turnkey accessories and curated decor. 815 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach 310-937-7777 shopnoelleinteriors.com @noelleinteriors
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Neve reindeer (7”H), $19
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Caroline Cecil pillows (22”), $295 each
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Checker tree figurine (set of 2, 11–14”H), $110
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Heritage ember vase, (16”H), $295
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HOLIDAY WISH LIST
Hammitt Designed in the South Bay, Hammitt’s iconic bags and accessories feature soft leather, best-in-class functionality and one-of-a-kind rivets. Key elements are covered with a Lifetime Promise, so it’s easy to gift with confidence. 227 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach 310-955-1023 hammitt.com @hammittla
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Vip Med, $375
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110 North, $215
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Tony Clear, $195
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Charles Crossbody, $295
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HOLIDAY WISH LIST
Kendra Scott Kendra Scott makes a positive difference in the community by focusing on three core values: family, fashion and philanthropy. They’ll help you design a piece of jewelry that’s unlike any other—a wearable work of art. 830 S. Sepulveda Blvd. #114, El Segundo 424-277-3700 kendrascott.com @kendrascott
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Michelle 14k yellow gold delicate chain bracelet in emerald, $600
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Willow 14k yellow gold strand necklace in white diamond, $950
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Kinsley gold statement earrings in green mix, $198
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Kinsley gold statement necklace in green mix, $175
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Looking for a great arrangement to compliment your holiday season, an after dinner treat, or some cocktail party nibbles? Look no further. With over 80 types of cheese, a selection of cured meats and perfectly paired pickles, crackers and sweets, we are here to guide you to the best selection. 424-390-8153 | 229 Pacific Coast Hwy | Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Glad Tidings DECK YOUR CALENDAR WITH A VARIETY OF LOCAL SEASONAL EVENTS TO TAKE YOU THROUGH THE NEW YEAR.
SANTA ARRIVAL AND TREE LIGHTING
HOLIDAY FESTIVAL
November 24, 3 to 6 p.m.
November 28–December 3
shopmanhattanvillage.com
torrancememorial.org/holidayfestival
This all-age show at Manhattan Village will feature
The magic of the holiday season will return this year
special performances from Jessica Louise, Live 61 and
under the big white tent at Torrance Memorial Medical
the Mira Costa High School marching band. You won’t
Center. Celebrating its 40th year, the tradition of the
want to miss Santa lighting the 41-foot plaza tree and
Holiday Festival continues with decorated Christmas
the magical snowfall that follows. Bring your blankets
trees, shopping, entertainment, sweet treats and more.
and chairs for a cozy evening under the stars.
Admission to public hours is $5. Children ages 5 and younger are free.
SAN POLO WINE DINNER AT PRIMO ITALIA
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November 30
SANDPIPERS HOLIDAY HOMES TOUR
eatprimo.com/events
December 1-3, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Primo presents the Brunellos of Montalcino from the
sandpipers.org
San Polo estate and winery. A curated pairing menu will
The South Bay organization’s in-person tour features
complement the different styles of Sangiovese. Limited
three homes decorated by local businesses and a mar-
seats available.
ketplace with holiday vendors and café items.
GUM TREE PHOTOS WITH SANTA
MARIACHI NIGHT AT THE RIV
December 3, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
December 20, 5 to 8 p.m.
gumtreela.com
therivmex.com
The Hermosa Beach store welcomes guests for pho-
Riviera Mexican Grill in Redondo Beach will celebrate
tos with Mr. Claus, with all proceeds going to the
the holiday season with mariachi music, drink specials
Hermosa Beach Education Foundation. $20 for a
and, of course, wonderful Mexican dishes.
digital photo file.
CHRISTMAS FEAST FIRST NIGHT OF CHANUKAH MENORAH
December 24, 4 to 9 p.m.
LIGHTING
December 25, 2 to 8 p.m.
December 7, at sunset
rb.shadehotel.com
terranea.com
Sea Level restaurant and lounge invite you to enjoy a
Celebrate the holiday with a daily Chanukah menorah
festive four-course prix fixe holiday meal while over-
lighting outdoors with Terranea’s 12-foot menorah.
looking the water. Reserve your table online with Resy.
This active holiday offering will celebrate the start of eight nights of Chanukah.
HO-HO-HOLE IN ONE PUTTING December 24-31, 10 to 4 p.m.
HOLIDAY SNOW SHOWERS
terranea.com
Every Saturday in December, 6 to 8 p.m.
Seasons greetings from the green! Practice your putting
thepointsb.com
game with a variety of slopes, plateaus and ridges with
Snow is in the forecast at The Point! Magical snow flur-
some festive obstacles on The Links.
ries happen every 30 minutes on the grass.
PILATES & PROSECCO MANHATTAN BEACH FIREWORKS
January 1
December 10
beachlifefitnessboutique.com
mbfireworks.com
Ring in the new year right at Beach Life Fitness Boutque
Start the afternoon with Michael Holmes on saxo-
in Redondo.
phone at noon, followed by Santa and a toy drive on Manhattan Avenue at 4 p.m. The annual fireworks display over the pier begins at 7 p.m.
| 95
On Full Display MICHELLE CRAIG SHERRIER TURNS A CAREER IN VISUAL MERCHANDISING INTO EDUCATIONAL PLATFORMS AIMED AT THE RETAIL INDUSTRY. Written & photographed by Kat Monk
Michelle Craig Sherrier remembers her mom’s gentle nudging when she was just 14: “You are not sitting on your butt again all summer.” Michelle applied and got a job at Buffums, a department store at the Manhattan Village mall. Little did she know that first job would begin a lifelong career in retail. Michelle is a retail creative consultant and merchandiser, helping clients organize inventory in
“I AM A CREATIVE CURATOR AND, DARE I SAY, A VISIONARY GANGSTER.”
appealing ways to engage and inspire shoppers to buy. She also runs MC Design Academy, which offers retail
There is no reason for me to take my knowledge to
merchandising tutorials, and she hosts The Retail
the grave.”
Whore Podcast.
Michelle recently hosted Breegan Jane, founder of
“Working with Michelle for the past six years has
a shop in Downtown Manhattan Beach, HGTV host,
been the biggest blessing for myself and my business-
interior designer and lifestyle expert. The two dis-
es,” says Ashlan Christoph of Serendipity Gift Shop in
cussed everything from Frankie B jeans to motherhood
Studio City. “She has the innate gift of creating cohe-
to philanthropy.
sive stories out of the products I buy—a true vision-
Michelle says that hosting an “educational” podcast
ary on the retail front. I am grateful to have found my
helped her overcome a deep insecurity about her own
perfect collaboration partnership with Michelle.”
education. She quit Mira Costa High School six months
After four decades in the business, Michelle notes the recent pandemic had a swift hand in changing how
shy of graduation to pursue a modeling career in Tokyo, Japan.
retail is done. “Changes that would have taken 10 years
“I have always been self-conscious about not gradu-
were accomplished in less than three years,” she says.
ating,” she shares. “I mean, don’t get me wrong, I will
When the world came to a stop, so did retail. But with
announce it at any given time, but deep down I knew
the help of a pandemic loan, she had an opportunity to
people would judge me for not having a diploma. I’ve
expand her business into other areas. So she set up her
had a hard time accepting the word ‘educational’ when
academy and podcast—both successful endeavors.
it comes to the podcast. I realize now I know my shit,
The Retail Whore Podcast boasts over 126 broadcasts and more than 40,000 downloads. Topics include “How
and retailers are learning so much from our guests and my years of experience.”
to Use Social Media to Grow Your Business,” “Creating
With a goal of helping her partners grow their busi-
Jovial Good Vibes,” “Merchandising for the Holidays”
nesses and connect with and understand their clientele,
and “From Monkeys to Coolers.”
Michelle isn’t afraid to push the envelope to increase
“For some reason, there is not a lot of merchandis-
sales. She knows a product can look amazing, but if it
ing information out in the world,” says Michelle. “I’m
doesn’t sell, it doesn’t matter. “I am a creative curator
all about giving out as much free information as I can.
and, dare I say, a visionary gangster.” ■
| 97
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to our generous sponsors
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SPECIAL THANKS
Walk With Sally believes in a world where cancer doesn’t define a family or dictate the trajectory of a child’s life.
The holidays are an extremely challenging time for our families. These festivities can be a harsh reminder of the many devastating impacts of cancer. Walk With Sally is raising $100,000 to increase the reach of our critical programming. We kindly ask for your support to help provide children and families with the guidance and resources they need during this time.
Give hope this holiday season WWW.WALKWITHSALLY.ORG WALK WITH SALLY IS A 501(C)(3) ORGANIZATION
without limits AFTER WEST NILE VIRUS LEFT LARRY WOLF PARALYZED, HE COULD HAVE EASILY WITHDRAWN. INSTEAD, HE DOUBLED DOWN ON LIVING. Written by Amber Klinck | Photographed by Shane O’Donnell
Occasionally, if you’re lucky, you cross paths with someone who seems larger than life—the kind of person
“We were walking through Mammoth Lodge looking
everyone gravitates to, the one with
for a place to sit down because it was jammed,” Lynn notes. “It was New Year’s Day. A girl in my group knew
great stories who figured out early
a girl in his group and they said, ‘Come on.’ I ended
that life’s too short to not live it well.
up sitting next to Larry. Later he said he thought I was
There are a lot of ways to introduce Larry Wolf. First and foremost, he’s Lynn Wolf’s husband. He’s dad to
cute and that I was G.D., which is ‘geographically desirable’—because I lived in Manhattan Beach too.” Lynn’s first impression of Larry varies depending on
adult sons Tyler and Alex. He’s a real estate legend,
who you ask. She smiles and says she can’t remember
the former co-owner of Shorewood Realtors. He’s a
who he was when he called her after they both re-
philanthropist and a true martini aficionado. He’s also
turned home from Mammoth. Larry quickly says that’s
a survivor who has spent seven years learning how to
bullshit, and Alex agrees with his dad.
live with the paralyzing repercussions of contracting West Nile virus. While none of these titles individually define who
“Yeah, that is bullshit,” Alex laughs. “She always says that he was a huge nerd, but she couldn’t get him out of her head.” Regardless, the two had their first
Larry is, his character and determination—during all
date at “Pancho’s or something” … they can’t remem-
the incredible highs and devastating lows—do. It’s
ber. And in 1972 they were married.
when life gets hard that we find out who we really are, and Larry has certainly risen to the occasion. Originally from Chicago, Larry studied aeronautical engineering at the University of Illinois. After gradu-
When the couple first met, Larry was an aerospace engineer. “I worked for Douglas and then Hughes,” he notes. But he had other aspirations. Larry saw a future in real estate.
ation, the big topic of discussion between Larry and
“He said, ‘I know this little place called Shorewood.
his roommate, Etty Andreani, was whether their next
I’m going to ask if they’ll take me on part time,’” Lynn
adventure would take them to Seattle or Los Angeles.
remembers. “And so Larry started working part time at
“[Etty] wanted to go to Seattle, and I wanted to go to L.A. We debated for months,” Larry notes. “One night I
102 |
In 1970 Larry met the Manhattan Beach girl he’d build that life with, but they were both far from home.
night for Shorewood Realtors while he was still working full time with Hughes.”
went to bed and thought I would get up in the morn-
When his part-time gig started paying more than
ing and tell him, ‘OK, you win. We’ll go to Seattle.’ But
his full-time job, Larry knew it was time to make the
before I could open my mouth, he said, ‘You win. We’re
transition into real estate officially. He hit it off imme-
going to L.A.”
diately with Shorewood’s founder, Arnold Goldstein.
Etty didn’t learn until months later how close the
Shorewood was filled to the brim with talent. “It was
duo had come to moving to Seattle. But considering
like lightning in a bottle,” Alex notes. Larry was on fire,
that Etty still calls Manhattan Beach home and Larry
and like anyone who reaches a certain level of success,
still considers Etty one of his closest friends, it looks
he started thinking about what was next. “I wanted
like everything worked out alright.
ownership,” he says.
When Larry first arrived in Los Angeles, he moved
So he positioned a partnership with Arnold, and in
around a lot—bouncing from Santa Monica to Long
1979 Larry became co-owner of Shorewood Realtors.
Beach and Playa del Rey. But he liked to party in
Together Larry and Arnold took the company to
Manhattan Beach. “I finally moved here in 1965. I knew
new heights, expanding the number of agents and
this was where I wanted to build my life,” he says.
Shorewood’s reputation to impressive levels.
“I would say Shorewood was his firstborn,” Alex
and Arnold were selling the company to Denver-based
says. “He loved everybody at that company so much,”
Realtor Roger Herman in 2014. But for Larry, the timing
Tyler notes. “He still does.”
seemed right—both for him as well as for the future of
Through his relationships at Shorewood and his philanthropic ties to local organizations like the Rotary
the company. “I had been working my butt off for over 40 years.
Club of Manhattan Beach and Richstone Family Center,
I just felt it was time. There were other things I
where Larry has served on the board of directors for
wanted to do. We weren’t actively looking to sell,
over 20 years, he frequently saw familiar faces when
but the opportunity came along and we jumped on it.
he and his family were out in their small beach com-
Unfortunately, we picked the wrong guy to sell to,”
munity. “My dad’s nickname was Mr. Mayor because
Larry says.
anytime we’d sit down for dinner somewhere, five or
“The goal was to take it to a more national level,”
six people would come over and say hi,” Alex shares.
Alex notes. “[Roger] owned real estate brokerages
“Everyone knew who he was.”
across the U.S., and he was going to change them all to
Because of Shorewood Realtors’ status as a longstanding and respected South Bay institution, many community members were surprised to hear that Larry
Shorewood.” Two years later, in 2016, the new owner filed for bankruptcy. “It sent a shockwave through the
| 103
“THE THING I HAVE LEARNED SINCE I’VE BEEN HOME IS THAT BEING CONFINED TO A WHEELCHAIR IS A HANDICAP, NOT A DEATH SENTENCE. I TRY TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF ALL THE LITTLE JOYS IN MY LIFE, LIKE SEEING MY GRANDDAUGHTERS, VISITING WITH FRIENDS, READING A GOOD BOOK, SEEING A GOOD MOVIE.” community. It affected so many people,” Alex notes. It was a devastating blow to the family. “It just happened so fast. I have a very positive outlook on most everything so I was still feeling like it would be OK, that
pleasures. Together he and Lynn had a lot to look forward to. Over September and October 2016, Lynn and Larry
we could still fix it,” Lynn says. “But we all know how
traveled to Italy, to their home in La Quinta for the
it ended. We were heartbroken. The agents and affili-
Desert Trip music festival, and to Napa for a golf get-
ates are like family. We worked together for 40 years
away. “Coming home from the last trip, we were on a
to build this great company and community. We wanted
small plane, and I could see he wasn’t feeling great,”
the best for them. We still do.”
Lynn says. “He was going out that night with his run-
Larry tried to remain positive. He had spent decades tirelessly growing Shorewood Realtors and, despite it
104 |
all, was excited to shift his priorities to more simple
ning group, The Walnuts. He said he probably wouldn’t stay out late. He came home about an hour later.”
Larry was exhausted. He wanted to sleep, and he
The family had a whiteboard with the alphabet writ-
wasn’t moving well. “We didn’t know what it was,”
ten on it, just waiting for the opportunity to use it.
Lynn says. The following morning, she reached out to
When Larry woke up, they went row by row waiting for
Tyler and Alex. “I called the boys and told them, ‘I think
any sign before stopping at a letter. “It was based on
we should go to the hospital; something’s wrong.’”
him blinking his eyes or moving his tongue,” Alex says.
After a couple hours at the hospital, Larry was re-
The first word Larry spelled was stroke. “I remember
leased and everyone went home. Later that evening,
specifically saying, ‘Your body didn’t do this to you.
Lynn called the boys again. Larry wasn’t doing well.
Something did this to your body.’ That was the begin-
When they walked into their family’s home, there were
ning of the next seven years,” Alex says.
eight paramedics upstairs with their dad.
“I didn’t know what to make of it,” Larry says of his
“We took him back to the hospital, and at that point
West Nile diagnosis. They were grateful to know what
his temperature had gone up several degrees. I remem-
they were up against, but a diagnosis also meant Larry
ber them pointing at the fever and saying, ‘That’s our
could no longer stay at the hospital. The family now faced
sign that there’s something bigger going on,’” Alex says.
a new challenge: finding a long-term acute care facility.
Days passed before the family was told Larry’s di-
“Most places said, ‘We can wean you off the ventila-
agnosis. “By the time we found out he had West Nile
tor.’ But once it became clear that wasn’t going to hap-
virus, we’d already been through the wringer,” Tyler
pen, they told us we had to leave,” Tyler notes.
says. “We were sleeping in hospital waiting rooms. He
During the process, Lynn was referred to Topanga
had already been intubated. A coma had been induced.
Terrace Rehabilitation and Subacute. The facility served
We just needed to know what it was.”
as a welcome solution for more than three years. Lynn
According to the U.S. Department of Health and
drove two hours each way nearly every day to be with
Human Services, West Nile virus is the most com-
Larry. The family made it a home away from home—
mon mosquito-borne disease in the continental United
celebrating birthdays, sneaking in beers and watching
States, with a median of 2,205 cases reported each
football. There was even a wedding.
year. Approximately 80% of people infected with the
“Etel and I had a big wedding party at my parents’
virus will not have any symptoms, and about 20% will
house, but we actually got married the day before at
experience a fever and other flu-like symptoms. Less
Topanga Terrace,” Tyler says. “That’s the day we cel-
than 1% will develop severe West Nile neuroinvasive
ebrate our anniversary.”
disease, a condition that can lead to death or long-term
Then COVID-19 happened. During the early days of
disability and for which there is currently no available
the pandemic, nursing homes were hit hard. The family
treatment or vaccine.
went from having unlimited access to Larry to getting
A doctor told Tyler: “The chances of a case this se-
a 72-hour notice that the facility was about to go on
vere are much lower than winning the lottery or being
lockdown. In reality, the family—as well as the care-
struck by lightning.”
takers they had come to rely on—would lose access to
It would be weeks before Larry woke up. He was now in a different hospital—he had been moved from
Larry within 24 hours. Because of Larry’s paralysis, he required around-
Torrance Memorial Medical Center to the Ronald
the-clock care. But it’s important to note that while
Reagan UCLA Medical Center—with no real under-
he is physically handicapped, his mind is as active as
standing of what was happening to him. “At that point,
ever. Cutting him off completely from his family—
there was no mobility,” Tyler notes about his father.
from any human interaction—would have been like a
And because Larry was on a breathing machine, he was
mental prison.
unable to speak.
“They rolled him up to a window, and we’re looking
| 105
at him and he’s looking at us. He says, ‘Get me out
all the little joys in my life, like seeing my granddaugh-
of here,’” Lynn remembers. “I hadn’t seen him cry in
ters, visiting with friends, reading a good book, seeing
3½ years, and that day he was weeping,” Alex notes.
a good movie.”
“Alex stood at the door and said, ‘You’ll be home in 48 hours,’” Lynn says. Bringing Larry home had never seemed like a
am blessed to have the caregivers I have,” Larry notes.
plausible solution, even to Larry. “I thought I was so
“They are part of our extended family and we have be-
limited,” he says. But keeping him in isolation was not
come really good friends. Most of them have been with
an option.
me from the beginning, and I greatly appreciate their
Within days, the family transformed their living room into a hospital room. This was no small feat.
loyalty and the great work they do.” Larry is still on a breathing machine. “We haven’t
“We have a family of caretakers who split up 12-hour
heard his voice since October 2016,” says Alex. “The main
shifts throughout the week,” Alex notes. For everyone
way we’ve communicated with him over the years is by
involved, this kind of at-home care was uncharted ter-
reading his lips, which we are still trying to perfect.”
ritory. But once the decision was made, there was no room for hesitation. After more than three years, Larry was finally home. He describes that moment as “pure joy.”
“For Alex and me, it was about seeing my mom not give up. And for my mom, it was about seeing my dad not give up,” Tyler notes. “I can’t emphasize enough how much I’ve relied on the
That day and every day after, Larry’s world has got-
boys,” Lynn adds. All of their lives changed that October
ten bigger. Not because he’s overcoming the virus that
in 2016, but they decided early there was nothing they
left his body paralyzed, but because of his willingness
couldn’t get through as long as they did it together.
to test the limits. When Larry came home, it raised
“This is not a miracle story,” Larry says. “I don’t
the question: What else can he do? Enjoying a stroll on
have any special powers or strengths. I just refuse
The Strand, taking Lynn to dinner, participating in the
to give up. If there’s a message in this story to other
Manhattan Beach 10K … so many things went from I
people who are in the same situation, it’s ‘Don’t let
can’t to Why not?
anyone set your boundaries. Set them yourself.’ I don’t
“The thing I have learned since I’ve been home is that being confined to a wheelchair is a handicap, not a death sentence,” Larry says. “I try to take advantage of
106 |
Of course, none of this works without the unwavering strength and support of his family and caregivers. “I
know how long I can keep doing this, but I’m sure as hell going to try. ■
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| 107
“The Holiday Festival uplifts everyone who comes—especially our seniors and children. When they enter the large, white tent and look around at the trees and decorations, their faces light up. It’s a wonderful feeling.” – CAROLYN SNYDER & BEV GEORGE, CO-CHAIRS OF TORRANCE MEMORIAL MEDICAL CENTER’S HOLIDAY FESTIVAL
SOUTH BAY GIVES BACK
PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE O’DONNELL
Giving back can make a profound difference in the lives of others. And making a difference is the right thing to do for individuals, families and businesses alike—especially at the holiday season. We can all give back—whether it is money, time or talents—to benefit others in our community, nationwide and even globally. In our South Bay Gives Back profiles section, we chat with some of the finest local professionals about how they are doing just that.
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TORRANCE MEMORIAL MEDICAL CENTER FOUNDATION
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THE JEN CASKEY GROUP AT COMPASS JEN CASKEY
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JENNY MORANT GROUP AT COMPASS JENNY MORANT & TYLER MORANT
EDITED BY LAURA L. WATTS
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S O U T H B AY G I V E S B AC K
TORRANCE MEMORIAL MEDICAL CENTER FOUNDATION
DESCRIBE SOME OF THE 2023 HOLIDAY FESTIVAL EVENTS. The festival includes beautifully decorated trees, entertainment, holiday gifts, children’s activities, a food court and special ticketed events. The Heroes Tree is a 12-foot beautifully decorated tree in the Grand Lobby of Lundquist Tower. You can honor a hero in your life and be recognized with digital signage at this tree. Our online auction is open for bidding November 16–21. Enjoy free admission to the festival all day on December 2 by bringing a new, unwrapped toy for the police and fire departments’ toy drive. Get your tickets now for the limited-seating fashion show and the black tie-optional dinner gala. WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR CREATING THE HOLIDAY FESTIVAL TENT EACH YEAR? Lisa Takata, Torrance Memorial Foundation special events and Patrons program manager: While the Holiday Festival tent is magical, it takes a village to create. My team and I have the planning, installation and teardown of the tent down to a science. Resurrecting the tent and subfloor starts the week before Thanksgiving and is a four- to five-day process. In addition, the daily floorplan turnovers for the various activities require thoughtful planning and coordination that begin six months before the event. For instance, the fashion show needs a runway, which is replaced by a dance floor for community entertainers the next day. The gala bar area in the evening becomes the kids zone
area in the daytime. The gala cashier area becomes a food court for public days. Lighting and sound needs change daily as well. It can get challenging, but it’s very rewarding to be a part of creating the holiday magic. TELL US ABOUT THE VOLUNTEERS WHO HELP WITH THE HOLIDAY FESTIVAL. Bev George, Holiday Festival co-chair: Much like Santa’s workshop, the Holiday Festival has its elves in the form of dedicated volunteers who work year-round to craft, design and plan treethemed ornaments, decorations and other delights. I’ve been the festival’s co-chair since 2011 and enjoy organizing our volunteers. I have extensive career experience including crafting, accounting and trade show expertise in demonstrating, marketing, purchasing, pricing and selling products. All I did in my career led to this, and I’m so happy to be a part of it. Thirty retired volunteers who want to give back gather yearround every Thursday. We do a lot—from inventorying in January to making mini trees, garlands, decorations and ornaments. We have a pricing team, a craft group and glittering queens for the poinsettias. Everyone has a job. HOW CAN FAMILIES GET INVOLVED? Carolyn Snyder, Holiday Festival co-chair: Family time is a big part of the festival. Parents watch children perform in musical groups. Grandchildren hold their grandparents’ hands and walk (or race) around the winter wonderland. And volunteers often work with family members. At one point, I had several generations in my family working together on this festival. My mother, four children, eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren decorated trees. My family’s favorite moments are seeing the faces of the people when they walk into the tent for the first time and their eyes open and they go, “Ahh!” It’s worth it. WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE FESTIVAL MEMORIES? Carolyn: Every festival has a story. I’ve been involved with the Holiday Festival since the beginning, so sharing just a couple memories is tricky! Rain has been a consistent theme—it rains almost every year, usually during setup. One year The Los Angeles Times wrote: “The Torrance Festival of Trees is L.A.’s answer to the drought.” Another consistent theme is Torrance Bakery’s treats. They are always a huge hit—not just with human patrons. One year, Torrance Bakery made gingerbread houses and put them on a tree. Birds flew into the tent and thought the gingerbread houses were so good, they ate them all! Torrance Bakery had to bake all new ones for the people who bought the tree. Of course, we don’t put baked goods on trees anymore!
3330 LOMITA BLVD., TORRANCE | 310-517-4703 | TORRANCEMEMORIALFOUNDATION.ORG | @TORRANCEMEMORIAL
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PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE O’DONNELL
F
ounded in 1925, Torrance Memorial Medical Center is a 443-bed, nonprofit medical center established to provide quality health care services to the residents of the South Bay, Peninsula and Harbor communities. This world-class regional hospital, affiliated with Cedars-Sinai Health System, includes an extensive integrated system of physicians and comprehensive medical services to provide coordinated communication and a continuum of care. The Torrance Memorial Medical Center Foundation is the hospital’s fundraising arm. Its annual Holiday Festival is an important community tradition and a cornerstone in Torrance Memorial’s fundraising efforts. Since its inception, the festival has raised nearly $16 million to support the hospital. The first festival was held in 1984 as a four-day event called Festival of Trees. It has grown into a six-day event that includes decorated trees and unique holiday finds for sale, talented performances and other festivities. All proceeds from the 2023 Holiday Festival, located in the white tent at Skypark Drive and Medical Center Drive, support the Melanie and Richard Lundquist Emergency Department.
Holiday Festival volunteers
S O U T H B AY G I V E S B AC K
JEN CASKEY, FOUNDER/OWNER The Jen Caskey Group at Compass
WHAT DOES “THE SEASON OF GIVING” MEAN TO YOU? It’s such an important time of year for us. We are very blessed to live and work here, and the season of giving is all about lending a hand—especially in our own backyard. Having grown up in Manhattan Beach and raised my three boys here, my roots run deep. I feel lucky to get involved with local charities during this time of year when people might need some extra love. HOW CAN WE ALL BE OF HELP THIS HOLIDAY SEASON? It’s important to remember that we don’t always know what someone is going through, so be extra aware of someone who may be struggling or in a challenging time—especially during the holidays. Sometimes just stopping to chat for an extra minute can make a difference. I encourage our team to volunteer during the holidays. Taking some time from our own celebrations to help others makes the holiday season brighter for everyone. WHAT DO NONPROFITS NEED MOST FROM THEIR COMMUNITY? Nonprofits need people to step forward and offer their time or talents in addition to money. Writing a check is always appreciated, but getting involved personally adds another dimension that money just can’t buy. Talk to the organizers and beneficiaries, make connections … that’s what it’s all about. WHAT LOCAL HEROES DO YOU ADMIRE? There are several, but two come to mind: Roger Van Remmen of the Richstone Family Center, who has been an instrumental part of that organization for decades, and Nancy Miller, who started the Jimmy Miller Memorial Foundation. Both have my unwavering support and admiration. I am lucky to call them friends. TELL US ABOUT YOUR TEAM. The Jen Caskey Group offers unique, luxury services stemming from the fact that I’ve been a part of this community all my life and in the real estate business for over 30 years. I am deeply devoted to our South Bay communities. Each member of our team feels the same, and we focus on providing the best client
service available today in real estate. From our unique concierge services to our specialized design consultant, in-house copywriter and wonderful staging relationships, we pride ourselves on attention to detail to create the best transactions for our clients while having fun in the process. We absolutely love what we do, and we believe it shows! IN WHAT WAYS DOES YOUR TEAM MAKE OUR COMMUNITY A BETTER PLACE? We are committed to making life better for those in our community by being involved in local charities throughout the year, not just at the holidays. Getting to know so many people in the South Bay over the years has allowed us to meet the extraordinary individuals who’ve identified a need and started something meaningful. We often volunteer together as a team, working toward goals that benefit the greater good. IN WHAT WAYS DOES CHARITABLE GIVING BENEFIT YOUR TEAM? It’s wonderful to connect outside the office and relate on a different level. We’re all a part of this special place, so it brings us closer when we join forces to give back. We make sure that everyone we bring on board is invested in their community. This is one of our core values, so we make sure our team members share our desire to give back. Fortunately, I’ve been working with everyone on our team for years, so it’s not something we have to compromise on. We’re all in it together. HOW DO YOU INVOLVE YOUR FAMILY IN YOUR FOCUS ON GIVING? My boys have been raised with the awareness of their surroundings and have always been a part of our giving efforts. They enjoyed being a part of Amigos Unidos when they were younger, which was a great way for them to incorporate giving back into their busy lifestyles alongside their friends. Amigos Unidos is a wonderful way to introduce philanthropy to young men. WHAT’S AT THE TOP OF YOUR WISH LIST THIS YEAR? My wish list is short and might seem clichéd, but I wish for good health, quality downtime with family and friends during the holidays, and a lot more peace in the world. Times are crazy, and the little things make a difference for me—especially right now. WHAT ARE YOU ESPECIALLY GRATEFUL FOR TODAY? I am grateful for my three sons (and new daughter-in-law!) and the fact that I get to go to work and do what I love every day, right in my own hometown.
805 MANHATTAN AVE., MANHATTAN BEACH | 310-200-5900 | JENCASKEYGROUP.COM | @JENCASKEYGROUP
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PHOTOGRAPHED BY FABIEN & LAURA CASTRO
J
en Caskey and her team, the Jen Caskey Group at Compass, specialize in high-end properties in and around the South Bay and beyond. Their tagline is “Luxury Boutique, Global Reach,” referencing the global, tech-savvy benefits their clients enjoy thanks to their affiliation with Compass. Jen and the six other real estate agents support various local charities—in particular the Jimmy Miller Memorial Foundation and the Richstone Family Center.
L to R: Starr Dill, Ali Snider, Patrice Radden, Jen Caskey, Stacia Janus, Avery Caskey, Eric Fonoimoana
S O U T H B AY G I V E S B AC K
JENNY MORANT & TYLER MORANT Jenny Morant Group at Compass
HOW DOES YOUR BUSINESS ADVOCATE FOR THOSE WHO NEED IT MOST? We currently do not have a corporate philanthropic plan. Instead, we follow our hearts and support charities and causes that we believe have an outsized impact on the South Bay community. We recognize that many charities and causes have limited resources, so we believe giving is one of the best ways to impact those in need. We love Manhattan Beach and the South Bay, and we recognize that giving back is one way to show our appreciation for our amazing neighbors and community. We both tend to favor supporting local education and youthoriented programs. Tyler was a ski coach for teenagers aspiring to be professional skiers. We both realized during that time how a little help and guidance for these teens made a lasting impact. We recognized that focusing on kids was the best way to have a lasting impact on our society. TELL US ABOUT THE NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS YOU SUPPORT. We are both big proponents of education and supporting our local schools. We are yearly community partners of the Manhattan Beach Education Foundation and actively support the Manhattan Beach Unified School District. Please join us at our charity drives and other activities to support these groups! Tyler: I feel a tremendous debt to those people who mentored me. I don’t think I would be where I am today without the influence of each teacher, coach and mentor who took time to help me learn or develop whatever I was working on at that moment in my life. I recognize what those individuals have done for me, and I think I have an obligation to pay it forward. Coaching kids has always been a passion of mine. I started coaching sports when I was 16 as a tennis instructor. After college, I coached skiers who were aspiring to be, or were, pros. It was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, which is why I continue to coach my kids and their friends. I also coach two AYSO soccer teams. It’s amazing what someone can achieve by just knowing
someone believes in them. Even though that interaction may only be a matter of minutes, the impact is forever. Jenny: I am following in my father’s footsteps, and I believe that it is my duty to help those in need. He grew up in a rough neighborhood in Brooklyn in the 1940s and 1950s. He always said how his father (my grandfather) strongly emphasized how important it was to always help those who were less fortunate. My dad had a huge heart, and throughout his life, he quietly gave to many charities worldwide. To continue his legacy, I host donation drives to gather items for local charities, such as School on Wheels, Family Promise of the South Bay, Food Pantry LAX and Richstone Family Center. One of my favorite things about being a local Realtor is how it gives me the platform to get people in our lives to come together to help homeless children and families who are less fortunate than ourselves. TELL US ABOUT THE LOCAL HEROES YOU ADMIRE. Tyler: I admire all of those local leaders and difference makers in our community who have worked over the years to make the South Bay what it is today. Our city council members, mayors, boards of local foundations—they all inspire me. There are so many great local leaders to thank for their time, energy, commitment and generosity, there is not enough space to list them all here. WHAT ARE YOU ESPECIALLY GRATEFUL FOR TODAY? Jenny: I am grateful for each of my friends and neighbors who support me and the causes I champion. It is because of them that I am able to make an impact on others. I am always so blown away by how many of our friends and clients help us collect items for our favorite charities. It is so inspiring to see everyone be so generous. WHAT ARE SOME WAYS WE CAN ALL BE OF HELP TO OTHERS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON? We encourage you to host a small fundraiser for your network. It can be very easy to collect items and extremely rewarding. We are happy to collaborate with anyone to help host their own drive, or give tips and tricks that we’ve honed through trial and error. Disclaimer: Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the state of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License #01991628. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified.
424-409-8976 | JENNYMORANT.COM | @JENNY_MORANT
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PHOTOGRAPHED BY FABIEN & LAURA CASTRO
T
he Jenny Morant Group is a team of Realtors®, led by president Jenny Morant and vice president Tyler Morant, that specializes in luxury single-family homes and multiunit residential income properties. Husband-and-wife Jenny and Tyler are passionate about their philanthropic missions. Jenny focuses on helping underprivileged families and specifically children in the Greater Los Angeles area, and Tyler focuses on mentorship and education.
310.545.5771 | WWW.MLEEARCHITECTS.COM | IG: @MLEEARCHITECTS 2200 HIGHLAND AVE, MANHATTAN BEACH, CA 90266
PHOTOGRAPHED BY NOAH WEBB
MICHAEL LEE ARCHITECTS
HOME
Room to Roam A BREATHTAKING NEW BUILD GOES FOR MAXIMUM FLOW FOR MORE SEE PAGE 142
HOME 122 A NEW PERSPECTIVE A Manhattan Beach–based interior designer artfully infuses a fresh take on a family home in the Hill Section.
134 ESSENTIALS Cabin Fever
136 IN RARE FORM Bridge + Fog
142 NEW CLASSIC A Manhattan Beach family collaborates with both a local architect and a designer to create an impressive new build with a resort-like feel.
154 A WILD IDEA
ALSO... 130 BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT About:Space
152 MOODBOARD J.Harkavy Interiors
158 DESIGN SHOWCASES The South Bay’s top home professionals
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a new perspective A MANHATTAN BEACH–BASED INTERIOR DESIGNER ARTFULLY INFUSES A FRESH TAKE ON A FAMILY HOME IN THE HILL SECTION. Written by Jennie Nunn | Photographed by Ryan Garvin | Styling by Stockpile
The Siddhartha family’s search for a home in the Hill Section of Manhattan Beach began on foot. “We did a lot of walking in many neighborhoods and fell in love with Manhattan Beach,” says the homeowner. “We wanted a smalltown feel while still being centrally located. We were drawn to the house because of its layout, large flat lot and beautiful mature landscaping, which creates a very private feel. We knew we wanted to start a family, so it made sense to look for a house in this area with a bigger yard.” While they loved the location and size of the 4,332-square-foot, Mediterranean-style home built in 1999, it was dated and lacked the light and airy, California-inspired aesthetic they wanted. “We loved the configuration of the home, with a fully flat lot [rare on the hill]. It had great flow downstairs but also had more formal living and dining areas, which we liked. We knew the bones were amazing but that it just needed some cosmetic work.” An Instagram search for design help before they moved in led them to Mary Beth Christopher, principal and founder of MBC Interior Design in Manhattan Beach. “We wanted a local designer so it would be easy to work together in person at the house,” explains the client. “We saw that Mary Beth had executed a similar extensive remodel that modernized a Mediterranean home similar to ours, and the before-and-afters blew us away. So we reached out to her and said something along the lines of, ‘Make our house look like that.’ She replied, ‘It’ll be better.’ And we were off to the races.” Their design goal was to create a timeless and sophisticated space while preserving the style and as many existing features as they could. But the fivebedroom, five-bath abode was peppered with massive,
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“IT’S EUROPEAN FARMHOUSE MEETS CALIFORNIA CASUAL, AND IT FEELS DISTINCTLY LIKE IT BELONGS IN CALIFORNIA.”
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22-foot ceilings, two-tone painted tray ceilings, a
stacked river stone with plaster for the dual-sided fire-
sunken living room, brown granite, patterned back-
place in the living room. Other modifications with help
splashes and elaborate curlicue iron detailing.
from general contractor Titan & Co. included gutting
“There were a lot of yellow walls, travertine, orna-
all bathrooms, removing excess crown molding in the
mental iron railings, stacked stone and Tuscan touches,”
primary bedroom tray ceiling, and creating a home of-
says Mary Beth. “We didn’t want to erase all of the
fice with custom built-ins by Coastal Cabinets featuring
Old-World character of the home, but we wanted to give
an intentional gap allotted for a bed for easy conversion
it a fresher, more present-day take on the Mediterranean
into a sleeping space.
design style. By streamlining some of the more overly
But one of the biggest challenges was the sunken liv-
ornate details and adding furnishings and lighting that
ing room floor with angled steps and a narrow walkway
are a mix of old, new and a few vintage pieces, the home
around the edge. “We positioned the furniture straight
feels elevated but still welcoming and comfortable. It’s
as if the room was square, so the angle is much less
European farmhouse meets California casual, and it feels
noticeable now,” explains Mary Beth.
distinctly like it belongs in California.”
She suggested closing off a dual-sided fireplace on one
Collaborating closely with the couple on ideas and
side to allow for better flow and function. “We brought it
desires while adhering to the overall project budget,
down to the floor, replaced the very small original insert
Mary Beth implemented a design plan including salvag-
with one three times as large, hand-plastered the sur-
ing existing walnut floors with help from Belmax Floor
round and added a custom iron forged screen,” she adds.
Company (which matched them to the bedrooms up-
“Scale-wise it now holds its own against that superhigh
stairs in a custom stain); updating the kitchen with new
ceiling and grounds the whole space.”
paint, pendant lamps and backsplash; and replacing
To lighten and brighten the entire home and
| 127
complement the refreshed walnut floors, Mary Beth selected Benjamin Moore’s warm but crisp White Dove for the walls. In the living room, she selected a large, modern iron Darlana chandelier by Visual Comfort to anchor the space with vintage artwork culled from the Long Beach Antique Market and a custom sofa upholstered in a Rose Tarlow fabric for Perennials. “The formal living room is our favorite,” says the client. “It is the first room you see when you enter the house. With 22-foot ceilings, the custom fireplace mantel, a large chandelier and beautiful decor, it creates a lasting first impression of our home. It also came together exactly like the renderings that Mary Beth did.” For the kitchen, simple updates made a big impact. Existing brown cabinets were painted white, the island was painted a smoky green hue, and a brown-andgreen patterned backsplash was removed and replaced with a bright white Riad zellige tile by Harmony. A pair of pendant lamps by Visual Comfort defines the island, with woven counter stools by Hati Home. In the powder room, a playful tiger-patterned wallpaper, Tiger & Magpie in hunter from Krane Home, creates a statement—with sconces by Kelly Wearstler. “They wanted this powder room to be a jewel box,” says Mary Beth. “I love that it feels like its own unique space but still works with the rest of the home.” Following the yearlong project, the Siddharthas— who recently welcomed a new baby—now feel completely settled in the space with their labradoodle, Beaujolais. “We love being able to live in what feels like a brand-new home,” they say. “It is elevated but also easy and livable, filled with little touches that we had the opportunity to influence.” Mary Beth is also pleased with the final design. “I love that we honored the architectural intent of the home and didn’t just strip it down to a clean white box,” she says. “By keeping some of the original details intact but simplifying and/or removing others, I think we achieved a nice balance of making the home more modern but still keeping a lot of its charm and personality.” ■
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S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G S E C T I O N
B U S I N E S S S P OT L I G H T
A DESIGNER’S DREAM Josette Murphy transforms a historic Palos Verdes home into a light-filled family haven. WRITTEN BY DARREN ELMS | PHOTOGRAPHED BY LAUREN TAYLOR
A
fter raising their family on the Peninsula for more than two decades, a Palos Verdes Estates couple decided to spend most of
the year outside the South Bay. Once their primary home became a second home, they set in motion plans for a renovation. By giving the property a much-needed upgrade, they knew their family could continue to enjoy quality time together and entertain guests in the special place they called home for so many years. Enter Josette Murphy, founder and principal of About:Space in El Segundo. A professional interior designer for nearly 30 years, Josette was immediately enamored with the project—an opportunity to turn a charming 1940s California Spanish home filled with unique features into a beautifully curated retreat. “We grew to appreciate Spanish Revival architecture and Moorish design elements. It was as if we were standing on the shoulders of the giants that came before us,” say the owners. With little to do structurally, Josette and her team could focus on refreshing and updating the interior environment, furnishings and accoutrements. “This project was a labor of love and all about the decorating!” says Josette. She started with updating surface finishes, lightening the textured plaster | 131
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walls, refinishing the oak wood floors and
Josette also sourced new area rugs and
world while paying homage to its coastal
reviving the terra-cotta tiles. Then they
designed upholstered bed frames for the
roots with comfort, openness and ease.
turned their attention to the furnishings
bedroom suites. She commissioned new
Family treasures, lovingly displayed,
and decor.
custom upholstered seating and new
add visual interest without overwhelming
window coverings with unique accent
the space. Notable touches include light
had an extensive collection of antiques,
details, all blended with care to achieve a
bed linens with colorful custom accent
art and unique accessories to work with.
completely fresh look.
pillows and elegant new window treat-
Fortunately, the well-traveled clients
“When a client has amassed a good col-
“We added a whole new layer to bring
lection, it’s a pleasure to begin with that
this house from dark and heavy to light
foundation so that the result, thank good-
and bright with a cream-and-blue palette
ness, will never look like everything came
of ‘today,’” she shares.
ments in every room that frame but do not obscure the breathtaking ocean views. Josette recognizes that many homeowners fear that a modern design approach
from one showroom,” says Josette. “This
The integrity of the home remained
might take away the historic character that
family travels the globe, and they love to
intact, including uniquely shaped door-
makes this area and its homes so special.
collect. We gave the best items new life by
ways and arches, colorfully painted
But as she proved with this successful proj-
moving them to a new setting or giving
decorative motifs and sculptural fire-
ect, Josette sees a path forward—marrying
them an upgrade.”
places. To balance some of these dra-
the past with the present.
Those improvements included reup-
matic moments, Josette chose a muted
holstering wood-framed seating, repair-
color scheme and embraced natural light
ABOUT:SPACE
ing and refinishing well-worn antiques,
for a softer touch. The home suggests an
305 RICHMOND ST., EL SEGUNDO
restoring several heirloom-quality area
international flavor, layered with artifacts,
310-726-0137
rugs and reframing treasured artwork.
antiques, tiles and textiles from around the
ABOUTSPACESTUDIOS.COM
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“THIS PROJECT WAS A LABOR OF LOVE AND ALL ABOUT THE DECORATING!”
ESSENTIALS
3
4 1
2
Cabin Fever BRING THE GREAT OUTDOORS INDOORS WITH THESE MOUNTAIN-INSPIRED FURNISHINGS AND ACCESSORIES. Curated by Jennie Nunn
1. Green leatherette catch-all tray. Paper Source at The Point in El Segundo, papersource.com; $20
2. Thymes Frasier Fir Heritage large pine needle luminary. Tabula Rasa Essentials in Manhattan Beach, tabularasaessentials.
5
com; $60
3. Regina Andrew Detroit “Waylon” antler chandelier. Lightopia in Manhattan Beach, lightopia.com; $2,125
6
4. Lana’s Shop “Mountain Animal” wallpaper. Anthropologie at Manhattan Village and Del Amo Fashion Center in Torrance, anthropologie.com; $195
5. Axel pillow. Kate Lester Home in Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach, katelesterhome.com; $175
6. Turkish-T kilim fleece-lined throw in ecru with slate. Gum Tree in Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach, gumtreela.com; $139
7. Natural curly lamb bench. Dacha in Manhattan Beach, shopdachainteriors.com; $1,985
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7
In Rare Form A HUSBAND-AND-WIFE DESIGN TEAM TRANSFORMS AN UNEXPECTED AND COMPLEX MATERIAL INTO STATEMENT PIECES FOR THE HOME. Written by Jennie Nunn Photographed by Mark Tanner
Three years ago in the height of the pandemic, husbandand-wife design duo Mariella Avenarius and Hector Limón—co-founders of San Pedro–based company Bridge + Fog—made a life-altering career change. Hector, a formally trained architect hailing from Puebla, Mexico, and Mariella, a former advertising executive for companies including Ford and Nissan, decided to take a complete leap of faith and launch a design studio centered around a single, unconventional material: concrete. During the initial days of lockdown in Los Angeles County, they received the keys to their studio. “The moving company canceled on us, so we rented a U-Haul and moved in,” says Mariella. That’s always a milestone for us. It was exciting and terrifying, and we kept questioning ourselves.” But their second-guessing was short-lived. What began as a pipe dream has evolved into an
“I SAW THE POTENTIAL OF HOW I COULD TURN IT INTO A MEDIUM. IT’S A VERY PLIABLE SUBSTANCE, AND I WANTED TO DO SOMETHING A LITTLE BIT MORE ARTISTIC.”
ever-expanding collection of custom and made-toorder concrete designs sought after by notable interior designers, art galleries and even the Museum of Latin American Art in Long Beach. The designs, now totaling approximately 31 pieces, consist of coffee tables, planters, console tables, side tables, benches and small accessories such as skulls, in custom colorways spanning pink, black, yellow and crisp white. They also incorporate copper, brass, aluminum, wood and stainless steel into their designs. Hector, who previously worked in construction specializing in ornamental architecture—manufacturing window trimming, balustrades and columns for high-end homes throughout Malibu, Beverly Hills, Bel-Air and beyond— spent several years reading and assessing blueprints. He found himself entranced with the material aspect and pondered translating concrete into high design. “I saw the potential of how I could turn it into a medium,” explains Hector, who, along with Mariella, is a painter. “It’s a very pliable substance, and I wanted to do something a little bit more artistic. The stuff we were making wasn’t really the stuff that I liked. It was too old-fashioned, too ornate, rococo and seen-it-a-thousand times. I didn’t want that anymore. Working in the
| 137
construction business can be very tough, and I was kind
architecture greats including Frank Lloyd Wright, Tadao
of disenchanted with the whole business method. I told
Ando and Charles-Édouard Jeanneret, or Le Corbusier.
Mariella that I wanted to reinvent myself, and she was
“I love the way they were able to take simple con-
patient enough to put up with me while I locked myself
crete and turn it into something eye-catching,” says
away in a laboratory and tinkered with my formula.”
Hector. “But I’m really inspired by everyday architec-
His inventive formula involved keeping the integrity of the concrete strong and durable, while reducing twothirds of the weight. After endless hours of experiment-
once a week just so we are exposed to art.” Hector is featured as a solo artist, LVLimón, with an
ing, the coffee tables now weigh around 100 pounds.
exclusive collection at Twentieth Gallery in Los Angeles,
Hector and Mariella enlisted friends and family as focus
and is working on new wall sculptures. “We are proud
groups to test wear and tear on prototypes, giving spe-
of the fact that we might be the only ones doing this
cific directives like standing on tabletops and ramming
right now,” says Hector. “There are a lot of people
vacuum machines against the sides.
working in concrete, but they might be doing things like
“That’s when we decided we had something pretty
kitchen countertops or bathroom sinks. That was the
special on our hands,” adds Mariella. “When you
one thing I never wanted to do. I wanted to make de-
think of concrete, most people think of it as a building
signs, and that was the whole goal from the beginning.”
product to construct a building, a sidewalk or a park
138 |
ture. We try to go to museums and art galleries at least
The duo is looking ahead with a line of trays and
bench. We wanted to change people’s perception of the
incense holders debuting next month, followed by
environment of concrete and where it can live—not just
lighting and seating, and a long-term dream of a solo
outdoors, but inside your home. It can be elevated into
museum exhibition. “We are changing the DNA of
something much more artistic.”
concrete and how it can be used,” says Mariella. “So
Hector, who first sketches designs by hand and
it’s also like an education process, and we’re lucky
then uses a 3D program, is influenced by how concrete
that our clients have been so open and willing. It’s
plays with light. He’s also inspired by the works of
very rewarding.” ■
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New Home for the Holidays Wishing everyone all the best for the New Year
Thank you to my spectacular clients for allowing me to do what I love.
LISA Y. LEVIN GLOBAL REAL ESTATE AGENT | DRE#01345434 310.463.9118 | LISA@LISALEVIN.COM | LISALEVIN.COM
Each office is independently owned and operated.
D e c e m b e r 1 - 3, 2 0 23 s a n D pi p e rs.o rg
h o l i Day D ec o r & m a r k e t . ca fée & s h o ps h o m es to u r t ic k e ts p resa l e $40/D o o r $4 5
xxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxx XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX Written by Xxxxxxx Xxxxxx | Photographed by Xxxxxxxx Xxxxxx
a new classic A MANHATTAN BEACH FAMILY COLLABORATES WITH BOTH A LOCAL ARCHITECT AND A DESIGNER TO CREATE AN IMPRESSIVE NEW BUILD WITH A RESORT-LIKE FEEL. Written by Zoe Alexander | Photographed by Roger Davies, Taryn Kent & Shane O’Donnell
xxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxx XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX Written by Xxxxxxx Xxxxxx | Photographed by Xxxxxxxx Xxxxxx
144 |
Jeff and Jamie Schumacher’s home
It contains many distinctive structural and technical
transforms the 1st Street corner
features, in addition to buzzworthy design. A point of
it occupies with a visual impact
pride for Anthony is the way the house sits on the site.
that evokes both simplicity and
Unobtrusive, it does not “worship the view” but intrinsically utilizes the sensual delights of the landscape.
sophistication. From conception, this
The exterior and interior of the home are composed
project was fastidiously planned and
of cedar and concrete, paired with generous windows.
purposeful in its setting.
The four-year build, a collaboration with Silicon Bay and Dave Shaw Concrete & Block, included an intense
“One of our missions is to build architecture that’s
concrete process that afforded Anthony time to obsess
timeless, hoping that it may not be torn down in 30 or
over the details. He notes that the scalloped concrete
even 50 years—to build something that has a sense of
contains an “undulating, wave-like texture accom-
permanence,” says architect Anthony Laney, founding
plished by custom milling a wood formwork.” Tall, au-
partner of Laney LA.
tomated doors and windows by Otiima take advantage
When the Schumachers purchased the house, Anthony
of the breeze that circulates throughout the day.
still had a year of construction to go before they could
A handsome top level, where the bedrooms are lo-
move in. This allowed them to refine their wish list
cated, peeks over hedges to take in unobstructed sight
and partner with the team to bring the home to life.
lines of the Pacific. The lower level, which includes a
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pool and extensive outdoor living space, is surrounded by walls and hedges—deliberately landscaped for privacy and noise reduction. “The wood floats above in the bedroom, and the living room is anchored by these nine concrete walls which are both structural and aesthetic and add a sense of permanence and soulfulness to the house,” says Anthony. While the home boasts many bonus features including a detached gym and elevator, it uses power as efficiently as possible. The roof sports 48 solar panels, and the home employs a heating and cooling system with 14 different zones. As Anthony explains, “By dividing the home into zones, we’re able to be far more efficient with what we need to heat and what we need to cool, rather than just pumping air less intelligently through the space.” Jeff Schumacher appreciates many aspects of the design, especially the adaptability and flow. “It’s modular in the sense that you can keep adding things to the house as you go. If your style changes, the house will breathe into the change.” The thoughtfulness of the layout creates cohesion in a home that could have easily become complicated and fussy. Jeff calls out the spectacular stairs—the “skeleton” of the house—that connect three levels. He notes that there are no additional stairs or landings extending from the main stairwell to the adjoining rooms, and that this enhances “the seamless movement through the house.” Jamie wanted to ensure that the rooms had flow and function. She knew the kitchen and first floor would be the main zone for the family to gather. “When Anthony and I worked together to design the island, I wanted to be able to look out at my kids while they were swimming and have them close to me. There’s also a banquette where they can do homework and chat with me while I’m cooking,” she says. Anthony was delighted. “I was really impressed with Jamie’s idea to orient the kitchen island toward the pool. That was a significant improvement I had not expected.” To help complete and complement the couple’s vision for the interior, Jill Johnson of Waterleaf Interiors
| 147
“IT’S MODULAR IN THE SENSE THAT YOU CAN KEEP ADDING THINGS TO THE HOUSE AS YOU GO. IF YOUR STYLE CHANGES, THE HOUSE WILL BREATHE INTO THE CHANGE.” 148 |
| 149
personalized each room by leading with the family’s lifestyle. She knew the kids’ spaces would evolve over time. “I wanted their rooms to be rooms they could grow into,” she says. Jamie adds that because the house is so modern, they sought softness with the interior design to help it feel warm and cozy to the family. Jill used a neutral color scheme, plenty of sheer fabrics and wallpaper to provide softness. She knew that the living room, dining room and kitchen needed to function and flow together as one unified space. “I used two sectionals facing each other in this really beautiful fabric that’s also superdurable, so the kids can plop down and be cozy,” Jill says. Understandably, everyone gushes about the many details that went into creating this new home. While it has the look of a luxurious island getaway, it is also comfortable and practical. The home achieves a timeless sensibility that nods to the future, favors form and function, and leans in to its landscape. Mission accomplished. ■
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INTERIOR DESIGN WATERLEAFINTERIORS.COM
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| HOME & GIFT
MANHATTAN BEACH
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WATERLEAFHOME.COM
A space that brings the outdoors in. Inspired by nature, we let the breathtaking views be the backdrop to this family’s living area. We opted for a neutral color palette with soft blues as an homage to coastal California living.
In design, take note that a child’s space can be fun yet sophisticated! A punchy wallpaper, playful geometric mirror and statement lighting will take this toddler into his teenage years.
152 | S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G S E C T I O N
southbay home moodboard Bring meaning and personality to your home by combining both old and new. We paired fresh, blue bedding and bold striped window treatments with our clients’ heirloom Stickley bed.
J.HARKAVY INTERIORS Jennifer Harkavy
Timeless with a twist. Here we specified classic gray shaker cabinetry with a Zellige backsplash for a modern take on subway tile.
HEADSHOT PHOTOGRAPHED BY JESSICA ALEXANDER PROJECT PHOTOGRAPHED BY MOLLY ROSE
4028 Via Valmonte, Palos Verdes Estates 917-689-8449 jharkavyinteriors@gmail.com jharkavyinteriors.com @jharkavyinteriors
S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G S E C T I O N | 153
A Wild Idea SEA RANCH MERGES THOUGHTFUL ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN WITH AN INTENTIONAL REVERENCE FOR CALIFORNIA’S NORTHERN COAST. Written by Darren Elms | Photographed by Adam Potts & Sea Ranch Lodge
154 |
As we drove about 100 miles north of San Francisco along a breathtaking if curvy seaside highway, my
hillsides that straddle the Pacific. Acting as both gateway and community hub,
friend shared stories of the Sea Ranch he knew as a
The Sea Ranch Lodge recently completed a multiyear
teenager. These were bittersweet memories, peppered
renovation that culminated in the summer opening of 17
with first love, great expectations and uncomfortable
intimately designed guest rooms conceived by award-
truths—all unfolding in Sonoma Coast splendor. Quite
winning San Francisco design collective NICOLEHOLLIS.
the setting for a coming-of-age story. Now here we
“The restoration of The Sea Ranch Lodge guest rooms
were, bookending 50 and making the journey north …
not only honors the vision of the original developer and
him full of nostalgia, me a blank page.
original group of architects including Joseph Esherick, Al
Sea Ranch took shape in the 1960s when architect
Boeke and Lawrence Halprin, but it also provides an el-
and planner Al Boeke imagined a planned community
egant yet modest design,” says general manager Kristina
where nature guided residential living. Several notable
Jetton. “The reopening of our guest accommodations
American architects, including Charles Moore, William
ushers in a new era for The Sea Ranch Lodge that fulfills
Turnbull Jr. and Richard Whitaker, would collaborate
the architects’ original master plan while adding touches
with landscape architect Lawrence Halprin to fill a
of modernity, ultimately coexisting with the natural ele-
master plan that encompasses 10 miles of the Sonoma
ments that make The Sea Ranch Lodge so special.”
coastline. The distinctive architecture consists of simple
The rooms exude an atmosphere of elevated simplic-
timber-framed structures clad in wood siding or shin-
ity and comfort that aligns with The Sea Ranch’s ethos:
gles. As such, they blend beautifully with the wooded
living lightly on the land. Carefully curated interior
| 155
furnishings lie within the rooms, including custom
architectural masterpieces, including some conceived
closets, headboards and desks built by Santa Cruz
by Don Jacobs and Obie Bowman and the esteemed
Woodworks. Vibrant accents are found throughout, of-
original Sea Ranch architects.
fering a striking yet comfortable contrast to the natural hues of the lodge’s wooden structure. Mid-century forms such as Hans Wegner elbow
concierge services, a customized pre-arrival grocery
chairs are interwoven with rustic, informal pieces like
shopping list, in-room spa treatments through a part-
the armadillo loungers by MUT Design Studio—re-
nership with Healing Arts Gualala, and in-room dining
vealing details of intricate craftsmanship that re-
catered by The Sea Ranch Lodge’s culinary team, led by
flect the authentic intentions of the architecture.
executive chef Eric Piacentine.
Hardware in the rooms maintains the character of
Dining at the lodge should not be missed. Windows
The Sea Ranch Lodge, using historically correct materi-
open the handsome, wood-paneled space to panoramic
als such as tiles by Fireclay.
coastal views. The lodge hosts complimentary experiences
Each room features a woven piece by Berkeley artist
such as live jazz, morning yoga, trivia night and seasonal
Jess Feury and ceramics by San Francisco-based artist
art exhibits. Guests also have access to The Sea Ranch Golf
Sasinun Kladpetch. Lighting design curated by Banks
Links, regarded as one of the most highly sought-after
Landl creates a space that is colorful, current and sim-
golf experiences in Northern California. Designed by
ple—echoing the windswept energy of the rocky bluffs
Robert Muir Graves, the course was one of the first
and the modern attitude of Northern California.
Scottish-style links built in the Western U.S.
Guests looking for multi-bedroom accommodations
As we departed, I understood my friend’s sentimental
can experience the best of The Sea Ranch in a resi-
attachment to this place. It’s easy to get swept up in
dential setting through the lodge’s Sea Ranch Living
the romanticism of The Sea Ranch and the wild coast
program–a collection of private rental homes de-
that enchants and inspires a new generation of both
signed by acclaimed architects. The offering allows
creators and appreciators. ■
guests to stay in one of seven uniquely different
156 |
Each Sea Ranch Living stay in a private ocean-view or meadow home comes with access to personalized
2023DESIGN SHOWCASES 160 ALCHEMY COLLECTIVE 162
LANEY LA
164 RJ SMITH CONSTRUCTION RJ Smith 166 ROCKEFELLER KEMPEL ARCHITECTS 168 SILICON BAY INC. 170
RAS-A STUDIO
172
ZIGRANG CONSTRUCTION Tim Zigrang
E D I T E D B Y L A U R A L . W AT T S SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
ALCHEMY COLLECTIVE 512 Main St. #1, El Segundo 323-250-5220 hello@alchemy-collective.com Lauren Martin-Moro, Sabrina Hughes, Brooke Murphy
alchemy-collective.com @alchemy_collective_
DESCRIBE THE FEATURED PROJECT.
local makers’ goods and our own apothecary
Our beloved Rancho estate is a luxury resi-
line, we welcome all to stop in, say hello and
dence in the heart of historic Rancho Santa
chat about your home needs.
Fe, California. We transformed this stately
Our women-owned and operated design
Spanish summer home—surrounded by soar-
team creates, coordinates and collaborates
ing eucalyptus trees, verdant citrus groves and
with intention. Our focus on the client experi-
coastal breezes—with a full gut renovation and
ence, 20+ years of design expertise and intense
bespoke furnishings indoors and out. With our
passion for architecture form the essence of
clients overseas, we managed every detail,
who we are. Helping people live well in homes
from concept to completion.
unique to them is at the core of what we do. We take great pride and pleasure in partnering
WHY THE RECENT NAME CHANGE?
with our clients on their most intimate family
After owning this design firm for more than
spaces. From custom ground-up home builds
10 years, we recently changed our studio
to large-scale renovations and furnishings,
name from LM Design Associates to Alchemy
we offer a flexible and personalized array of
Collective. The reason for the change? Our
design services, which serve our clients as their
team, incredible clients, studio growth, suc-
needs change over time. With bustling family, work and travel sched-
all stem from one word: alchemy (the inner act
ules, our repeat and referral-based clientele
of transformation). A business is only as strong
look to us as their trusted home advisors. Our
as the sum of its parts. Our combined knowl-
clients enjoy a calm and elevated experience
edge, creativity, individuality and passion-
as we manage the heavy lifting and coordina-
ate work ethic are the collective pillars of our
tion from concept to completion. Our mission
success. Hence, our studio has been recently
is to build homes that evoke the best of family
reborn with her new look.
living: warm, modern, comfortable spaces filled with joy and soul, a uniquely personal
TELL US ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS.
reflection of where you’ve been and where
Our South Bay design studio and shop are
you’re going.
centrally located in Downtown El Segundo. Filled with curated home decor, vintage finds,
160 | S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G S E C T I O N
PHOTOGRAPHED BY PUBLIC 311 DESIGN
cesses, lessons and future collective endeavors
| DESIGN SHOWCASES 2023 |
| 161
LANEY LA 725 Cypress Ave., Hermosa Beach 310-870-7175 yes@laney.la | laney.la | @LaneyLAinc
DESCRIBE THE FEATURED PROJECT.
With a global roster from Canada to South
Recognized for its scalloped concrete walls,
Africa, Laney LA is a place where diverse minds
this residence embodies an exploration of
gather, focused on the simultaneous pursuit
organic erosion and subtraction. Its concrete
of critical discourse and vibrant culture. Our
massings anchor every elevation, entering and
projects seek symbiosis between the built and
exiting the home at poetic intersections. Like
natural environment. We have been recog-
cliffs carved from water, the scalloped walls
nized by the 2023 AIA Los Angeles Residential
contain the faint grain of the formwork that
Honor awards and the 2022 Dezeen Longlist.
shaped them.
Ultimately our approach requires an embrace
The property’s larger massing consists of a
of the tension between sustainability and
base void that acts as an armature for living.
affordability, nostalgia and progress, rigorous
Through large, pocketing doors and double-
design and artful service. For there is strength
height spaces, there is a sense of expansion
found in tensility, and beauty found in paradox.
outdoor terrace and pool. With its panoramic
HOW DOES ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN MAKE
ocean views and echoes of that element within
A DIFFERENCE IN THE WAY WE LIVE?
its own walls, the architectural language of this
Architecture at its best doesn’t just augment a
structure speaks to a beauty shaped by the
lifestyle. Rather, it reveals the beauty in every-
impermanent.
day moments. For example, one’s morning coffee ritual can be augmented by a home’s orien-
TELL US ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS.
tation toward eastern light and western views.
Laney LA is an award-winning architecture
Architecture has the power to make even the
and design studio driven by the conviction
passing of time something reverential. In every
that great architecture can inspire the best in
season and at every time of day, there is a
humanity—moving those who experience it,
changing interplay of natural light and shadows
shaping neighborhoods and impacting the
on wood paneling and textured concrete that is
way we steward our environment. Based in Los
timeless in beauty and temporal in its elusive-
Angeles, we specialize in residential, commer-
ness. While it may sound small, these dynamics
cial and interior design projects along the West
are what transform and elevate a lifestyle in a
Coast of the United States.
way that is challenging to put into words.
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TEAM PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE O’DONNELL; PROJECT PHOTOGRAPHED BY ROGER DAVIES
within as the home unfolds into a landscaped,
| DESIGN SHOWCASES 2023 |
| 163
RJ SMITH CONSTRUCTION RJ Smith 930 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach 310-648-8353 office@rjmithconstruction.com rjsmithconstruction.com @rjsmithconstruction
DESCRIBE THE FEATURED PROJECT.
trend in multifunctional spaces that can easily
This is our latest completed project, Irena, which
transition between a professional workspace
stands out as a delightful juxtaposition of tradi-
and a personal space for other activities, maxi-
tional aesthetics and modern conveniences. We
mizing the usability of the home environment.
of the structure, reminiscent of Mediterranean
WHAT ICONIC CALIFORNIA-STYLE ITEM
designs. We wanted to also include sizable win-
SHOULD BE IN EVERY HOUSE?
dows to achieve a generous amount of natural
Given California’s favorable climate and
lighting important to this growing family.
inclination toward natural beauty and sustain-
As you make your way through the door,
ability, incorporating elements that blur the
you find yourself inside the centerpiece of any
lines between indoor and outdoor spaces is
home: the kitchen. Serving as a focal point, the
essential. Large, retractable glass doors that
kitchen welcomes cooking and congregating.
open to a lush backyard allow for a seamless
The custom floor-to-ceiling windows allow
flow and connection with nature.
indoor-outdoor functionality, which we took full advantage of by also creating a kitchen
HOW DOES ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN MAKE
bar window. By building an extension of the
A DIFFERENCE IN THE WAY WE LIVE?
kitchen, our homeowners can host at ease.
Architectural design is not merely about constructing buildings; it’s about creating
WHAT IS MOST OFTEN REQUESTED FOR
environments that enhance the quality of life
HOME WORKSPACES?
and functionality of spaces. An impactful way
There is a strong emphasis on natural light-
it makes a difference is through sustainability.
ing and proper artificial lighting to reduce
Smart, innovative designs incorporate energy-
eye strain and enhance the overall mood of
efficient materials and technologies, promot-
the workspace. Technological integration is
ing a harmonious relationship between the
another request, ensuring that the space is
built environment and our natural world and
clutter-free through adequate power outlets,
paving the way for a more sustainable future.
seamless connectivity and cable management
From the materials to the layout and orienta-
solutions. Incorporating noise reduction and
tion of buildings, every architectural decision
privacy elements—like acoustic panels or room
we make as contractors reverberates—impact-
dividers—minimizes distractions. And there’s a
ing the way people live, work and interact.
164 | S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G S E C T I O N
RJ PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE O’DONNELL; PROJECT PHOTOGRAPHED BY LAUREN TAYLOR
emphasized the clean and minimalist design
| DESIGN SHOWCASES 2023 |
| 165
ROCKEFELLER KEMPEL ARCHITECTS 145 Standard St., El Segundo 310-335-6000 | info@rockefellerkempel.com rockefellerkempel.com | @rockefellerkempelarchitects
DESCRIBE THE FEATURED PROJECT.
client—being a good listener to their story,
Perched on a hilltop with ocean views to the
understanding their values, and working
west and city views to the east, this residence
closely with consultants through construction’s
reflects the owner’s appreciation for clean
heavy lifting and messiness. We’re there from
lines, visual simplicity and quiet surprises. The
the beginning to the end, supporting the team
story of this design began with two found
and keeping the client’s dreams on target.
coastal and sanctuary. Here’s how we inter-
WHAT SHOULD EVERY HOUSE FEATURE?
preted them:
We live in one of the most comfortable climates
Modern—form: a modern interpretation of a
in the world, creating a unique opportunity
beach shack with a pitched roof and a simpli-
to design places to live and work seamlessly
fied expression of punched openings.
connected to the outdoors. Indoor-outdoor
Coastal—material: a soft palette of light
living should be considered in every Southern
natural stone and wood reflecting the smooth
California home. It promotes a healthy con-
gray beach stone and aged driftwood.
nection with nature and, more broadly, pro-
Sanctuary—daylight, flow and scale: a living environment with plentiful natural daylight and
motes healthy living—elevating the mind, body and spirit.
open, connected, differentiated spaces—quietly sensitive to the human scale and thoughtfully
HOW DOES ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN MAKE A
considered from the public view.
DIFFERENCE IN THE WAY WE LIVE? As architects and designers, we have the
TELL US ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS.
opportunity to profoundly shape one’s day-to-
Born from a love for beautiful things and how
day life: the way a home feels, how the light
they are made, we are a team of detail-
enters, the scale of a grand entrance, the flow
obsessed architects and designers with a deep
between spaces, the engagement with build-
passion for what we do. Our work spans both
ing materials, and the way things are made
custom residential and commercial projects.
and come together to become a handrail, stair
That profound experience and diversity have
or window opening to a view. It’s our respon-
taught us that executing a successful project
sibility to design a home that allows clients to
takes hard work and dedication within a
live the life they always intended, shaped by
collaborative team effort. It begins with the
the place uniquely tailored for them.
166 | S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G S E C T I O N
TEAM PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE O’DONNELL; PROJECT PHOTOGRAPHED BY ERIC STAUDENMAIER
objects and three inspirational words: modern,
| DESIGN SHOWCASES 2023 |
| 167
L to R, top: Paige Rubenstein, Raul Valles, Jeff Bucklew, Sixer Goodman, Greg de Saint Aignan, Wylber Gomez, Freddy Contreras Bottom: Ryan Schlee, Christian Salceda
SILICON BAY INC. 725 Cypress Ave., Hermosa Beach 310-546-1010 info@siliconbay.la | siliconbay.la | @siliconbay.la
DESCRIBE THE FEATURED PROJECT.
bricks flown in from Denmark. Another trend
The design of this home revolves around the
almost all our projects are including is interior
custom scalloped board-formed concrete
plaster. Instead of the conventional approach
walls and the tongue-and-groove cedar siding
of finishing walls and ceilings with standard
seen throughout the interior and exterior. These
paint, we apply a cement finish, adding a
walls provide structural support for the build-
richer, more luxurious look to the space.
ing and also serve as the primary focal point. Extensive technical planning was essential to
TELL US ABOUT OTHER PROPERTIES YOU’RE
ensure that the scallops maintained even-
WORKING ON.
ness from floor to ceiling and that the finish
We are currently building two homes that fea-
remained consistent throughout the home.
ture a unique design element: a pool situated
A similar level of precision was applied to
on the upper level, directly above other living
achieve uniformity in the tongue-and-groove
spaces. This innovative concept involves the
siding. We are very proud of how it turned out.
collaboration of several specialized consul-
TELL US ABOUT YOUR FIRM AND THE
trating these collaborative efforts, ensuring a
SERVICES YOU OFFER.
seamless execution.
We are a full-service construction company that builds custom homes in the South Bay.
HOW DO YOU WORK WITH CLIENTS TO BUILD
Our multidimensional team has worked on all
THE HOME OF THEIR DREAMS?
levels of homes in the Los Angeles area and
We often joke that we are entering a relation-
is committed to giving the utmost attention to
ship with you. But it’s true! We will be commu-
detail to each project from start to finish.
nicating with you on a weekly—and sometimes even daily—basis … and not only with you but
WHAT ARE SOME TRENDS YOU ARE
with your architect, designer, engineer, etc. It is
CURRENTLY SEEING?
crucial in this collaborative effort. We are here
Many of our projects, including this one, seam-
to guide clients throughout the process, offering
lessly integrate design elements that flow from
advice on the best ways to bring their homes to
the exterior to the interior of the home. In some
life and ensuring they will enjoy them for many
of our current projects, we’re incorporating
years to come. Let’s start a conversation about
materials like limestone or handmade Petersen
turning your dream home into a reality!
168 | S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G S E C T I O N
TEAM PHOTOGRAPHED BY WILL STILES; PROJECT PHOTOGRAPHED BY ROGER DAVIES
tants. Our team takes on the role of orches-
| DESIGN SHOWCASES 2023 |
| 169
RAS-A STUDIO 310-937-1760 | 2507 W. 190th St., Redondo Beach | ras-a.studio | @ras_a.studio
DESCRIBE THE FEATURED PROJECT.
is clad in western red cedar, which forms a
The brief was to provide a modest-sized home to
plinth-like base for the visually lighter, smooth
accommodate a young family of three, that had
trowel stucco upper level to sit upon.
a minimal footprint on the parcel—giving way to ample outdoor space. The challenge was to fit
TELL US ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS.
the program onto the lot that already shared the
We are a boutique design-build studio that
backyard with an existing recording studio.
believes in good design and getting our hands
Strict parking codes often dictate the layout
dirty. With a multidisciplinary team of archi-
of homes in Manhattan Beach. To avoid the
tects, designers and contractors, we provide
front of the house on the 40-foot-wide lot
complete services—taking a project from con-
being mostly garage, the parking is oriented in
ception through construction.
half and allows more interior space to connect
HOW DID YOU GET YOUR START?
to the front yard.
Robert Sweet, owner: At a small architecture
The ground floor plan shifts at the backyard,
firm in Beverly Hills 20 years ago. Wanting to
forming a covered patio that connects the
be closer to the beach, I then went on to work
living, dining and kitchen areas to the outside.
at Dean Nota Architect in Hermosa for about
A heated plunge pool provides separation
seven years before eventually branching out
between the home and the recording studio. A
on my own.
double-height music room off the entry spans to a second-floor reading room. The bedrooms
HOW MUCH OF YOUR JOB IS ACTUALLY
are all located upstairs. The master suite’s
SOLVING CLIENTS’ PROBLEMS?
bathroom opens onto a planted private ter-
We look at every project as a problem to solve
race, which takes advantage of a second-story
and come up with a specific solution to that
setback requirement.
problem. The end product is a holistic result
The twin gable roof pulls back along the
deriving from the site (physical constraints,
setback, reducing the home’s scale and help-
existing structures, zoning, sunlight, etc.), the
ing it relate to the several single-story homes
client’s program, budget and the context or
still lining the street. The lower half of the home
locale of the project.
170 | S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G S E C T I O N
TEAM PHOTOGRAPHED BY SIRI BERTING; PROJECT PHOTOGRAPHED BY HERE AND NOW AGENCY
tandem. This reduces the garage’s presence in
| DESIGN SHOWCASES 2023 |
| 171
ZIGRANG CONSTRUCTION Tim Zigrang 2550 A Via Tejon, Palos Verdes Estates 310-375-3626 timzigrang@gmail.com zigrangconstruction.com
DESCRIBE THE FEATURED PROJECT.
TELL US ABOUT SOME OTHER PROPERTIES
This home was built on 4 acres near the town
YOU’VE WORKED ON.
of Boerne (pronounced “bernie”) in the Texas
We are very multidimensional. We recently
Hill Country. We jumped at the chance to do
worked on a large, traditional coastal home
a project like this. Building in Texas is very dif-
in Manhattan Beach; a Spanish home near
ferent from how we construct homes here in
Torrance Beach; a Tuscan house overlook-
California. Most notably, the process is easier
ing Trump National Golf Club; and a modern
with fewer regulations and red tape. Building
home in Palos Verdes Estates. We have experi-
this same 4,000 square feet here in the South
ence in all types of architecture.
Bay would take 20% longer and cost 30% more. So this experience was very refreshing. Texas also comes with some things we take
WHEN DID YOU START YOUR BUSINESS IN THE SOUTH BAY?
for granted here—like water! This property has
I started my company in 1981 while a busi-
a well with 5,000 gallons of water storage. The
ness student at USC. After school I worked
home is heated and cooled with heat pumps
in the private sector for a few years, but I
and hot water, and cooking is done with pro-
always yearned to be working for myself doing
pane from a buried tank. This is how it is done
something creative. In 1988 I started Zigrang
when you live 12 miles from town.
Construction; over the years as we grew, we took on more and more employees. Some
TELL US ABOUT YOUR FIRM AND THE SERVICES YOU OFFER.
have been with us for more than 30 years. We are proud that we have created an
We primarily are a construction company, but
environment where our employees care about
we help clients create a team by recommend-
how projects are run and completed as much
ing architects or designers who will fit well with
as I do. We believe each project is special, and
the owners’ desires. With a team approach,
these buildings are going to be around for a
we can better manage costs, schedules and
long time with my name attached.
desires for our clients. We also have many of the needed trades in-house.
172 | S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G S E C T I O N
| DESIGN SHOWCASES 2023 |
| 173
DRE#00967574
Palos Verdes Estates This stunning Old Spanish estate features captivating ocean, coastline and city light views! Four bedrooms, five baths, 5,800 square feet of living space and a 26,100 square foot lot including a pool, spa and incredible guest house! $10,000,000
R E A L E S TAT E
Old Spanish Beauty Some of the most notable Spanish homes in Los Angeles have one thing in common: They were designed by renowned architect Kirtland Cutter. Originally built in 1924 and known as the Cameron Residence, this prominent estate was built around an enchanting stone courtyard featuring Cutter’s signature arched pathways and a spectacular outdoor fireplace. A significant restoration retained the home’s original charm and character, and the finished product truly elicits an overwhelming sense of awe. Whether it’s the grand living room, the gourmet kitchen, the amazing grounds, the picturesque pool and spa, or the fantastic guest house (with kitchen, living room and bedroom suite), this one-of-a-kind estate is an iconic example of classic Spanish architecture. Photos cannot quite capture this property ... it must be experienced. Chris Adlam/Vista Sotheby’s | 310-493-7216 | DRE #00967574
| 175
JUST LISTED Lower Malaga Cove 532 Via Media Palos Verdes Estates 4 bedrooms + office Custom construction $5,200,000
WISHING OUR CLIENTS A JOYOUS HOLIDAY SEASON IN THEIR NEW HOMES
310-938-9167 | cariandbritt.com | Britt: BRE# 01799654 | Cari: BRE# 00850678
NEW LISTING!
2605 PINE AVE | MANHATTAN BEACH 5 BEDS | 4 BATHS | 3328 SF | 4486 SF LOT | $3,999,000
808 JOHN ST | MANHATTAN BEACH A ONCE IN A LIFETIME OPPORTUNITY | 6 BEDS | 6 BATHS | 6,604 SF | 20,100 SF LOT | $19,900,000
JEN CASKEY GROUP
DRE 01075946 INFO@JENCASKEYGROUP.COM @JENCASKEYGROUP 310.200.5900 Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01991628. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed
566 35TH ST | MANHATTAN BEACH 5 BEDS | 5 BATHS | 4732 SF | 5408 SF LOT | $5,250,000
2605 VISTA DR | MANHATTAN BEACH
440 2ND ST | MANHATTAN BEACH
4 BEDS | 4 BATHS | 2678 SF | $4,150,000
4 BEDS | 4 BATHS | 3,427 SF | $4,299,000
JEN CASKEY GROUP DRE 01075946 INFO@JENCASKEYGROUP.COM @JENCASKEYGROUP 310.200.5900 Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01991628. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed
our neighborhood,
221 28th Street, Hermosa Beach New Construction for Lease
R E A L
E S T A T E
ROB MCGARRY
MEREDITH JOHNSON DERENZIS
310.463.8488 | DRE# 01356525
310.600.7973 | DRE# 01907722
G R O U P
your home
34 17th Street, Hermosa Beach Walkstreet Bliss
Each office is independently owned and operated.
AMY PEARCE
DARIN DERENZIS
424.445.8358 | DRE# 02137203
310.418.6210 | DRE# 01760239
LI NE ST W IN G
1533 Via Lopez, Palos Verdes Estates | $10,990,000 | www.magnificentvillapalosverdes.com
R P ED R U ICE C TI O N
5 Bd | 8 Ba | Approx. 8,700 sq.ft.| Approx. 30,000 sq.ft. lot | 4 Car Garage
1456 Altridge Dr., Beverly Hills | $4,588,000 | www.viewhomebeverlyhills.com 5 Bd | 7 Ba | 6,004 sq.ft. | 12,421 sq.ft. lot | 3 Car Garage
621 Palos Verdes Drive West, Palos Verdes Estates | $3,899,000 | www.621palosverdesdrwest.com 4 Bd | 3 1/2 Ba | 2,450 sq.ft. | 7,893 sq.ft. | 2 Car Garage
LILY LIANG
+1 310 373 3333 | 310 902 7799 Text HOME TO THE FINEST COLLECTION HOME TOESTATE THE FINEST COLLECTION OF REAL EXPERTS IN THE SOUTH BAY. OF REAL ESTATE EXPERTS IN THE SOUTH BAY.
STRANDHILL.COM
STRANDHILL.COM
STRAND HILL | CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE LICENSE #01968431. THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, SQUARE
STRANDHILL|CHRISTIE’SINTERNATIONALREALESTATELICENSE#01968431.THEINFORMATIONCONTAINEDINTHISDOCUMENT,INCLUDING,BUTNOTLIMITEDTO,SQUAREFOOTAGEAND/ORACREAGE,HASBEENPROVIDEDBYVARIOUS FOOTAGE AND/OR HAS BEEN PROVIDED BYTHE VARIOUS SOURCES WHICH OR MAY INCLUDE THEBROKER SELLER, PUBLIC RECORDS, MULTIPLE SERVICE OROF OTHER SOURCES WHICH MAY ACREAGE, INCLUDE THE SELLER, PUBLIC RECORDS, MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE OTHER SOURCES. HAS NOT AND WILL NOTTHE INVESTIGATE OR LISTING VERIFY THE ACCURACY THIS INFORMATION.
SOURCES. BROKER HAS NOT AND WILL NOT INVESTIGATE OR VERIFY THE ACCURACY OF THIS INFORMATION.
lily@lilyliang.com | www.lilyliang.com 716 Yarmouth #202, Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274 BRE# 00837794
Alli Baldocchi
・ @ALLIB_BEACHRE ・ALLI@PACIFICAPG.COM
310.804.2203
DRE: 01481125
Susan Jensen 310.251.2404
・ SUSAN@SUSAN-JENSEN.COM DRE: 00689950
“Alli & Susan
helped me buy a beautiful home for my son, puppy and I approximately 12 years ago, which was an amazing experience. Without their white glove service, solid experience and recommendations, I would not have been the lucky buyer as there were multiple bids/competition!!!! Just a few months ago, I decided to sell that beautiful home and who better to help me do so "Alli and Susan". It was a no-brainer for me to work with them since I had such a positive experience and trusted them wholeheartedly. While I was out of town, Alli organized and staged my home to perfection and hosted a well-attended and beautiful open house. In fact, Alli and Susan did such a stellar job that my home sold in just 2 days. I cannot say enough wonderful things about my experience with Alli and Susan through the years, and the entire Pacifica Team! Alli and Susan will work with you to make your desires a reality. Their cool, calm mindset helped calm my nerves and gave me the utmost confidence they would get the job done – and they did! I strongly recommend this dynamic duo!”
- Kim
Happy Holidays!!! Wishing you and yours health, happiness and prosperity in the New Year! We look forward to assisting you with all of your future real estate needs.
JENNY MORANT & TYLER MORANT, ESQ. Jenny Morant Group O: 424.409.8976 hello@jennymorant.com @jenny_morant | jennymorant.com DRE 01874517 Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01991628. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate.
LAST WORD
Do You Know What I Know? GELATO MAMA REVISITS THE GHOSTS OF CHRISTMAS PAST AND PRESENT, WITH AN EYE ON THE FUTURE. Written by Emily Tecklenburg | Illustrated by Yuiko Sugino
Holidays breed tradition. Have I ruined my children’s lives by not participating in matching holiday pajama sets? Possibly. But as a divorced mom who lives far from her family, traditions—or lack thereof—tend to trigger me this
flakes my daughter and I create and splatter across the windows. There’s tradition in the baking of the same coffee cake each Christmas morning. It is in the music we play as we pile cookies high
time of year. I often feel inadequate, then overcompen-
with colorful sugar—daring one another to take a big,
sate with doomed ideas like the “Ice Skating Debacle of
caloric bite. It is in the gathering of orphaned friends
2018” where I forced us all to circle a small, cramped
on the eve of Christmas, our bellies full of lasagna,
ice rink nestled between skyscrapers—my kids sweetly
Chianti and gratitude. It is in the comfort binge-watch-
placating me because, somehow, they knew Mom was a
ing of Elf, Home Alone and Christmas Vacation, fight-
little sad, and she needed this desperate act of seasonal
ing for space on the sofa, still delighted by jokes that
cheer … as silly as it was.
feel like old friends. It is in the joy I feel as I sit in the
It felt easier to create traditions when I was a kid. Of
middle of crumpled, discarded wrapping paper wear-
course, I wasn’t doing any of the work; I was just there
ing all my gifts at once with a beanie on my head, fuzzy
for cousin debauchery, festive food and my share of
socks on my feet and new earrings bedazzling my lobes.
gifts stacked high under the tree. Holidays were loud, rambunctious, overstuffed. On the rare opportunities my kids have had to spend
Tradition isn’t always a place or a thing. It’s a feeling. And while I can’t give my kids what I had in rowdy uncles talking politics and crops while mischievous
a holiday with my extended family, they were gob-
cousins sneaked peeks at all our presents, I know that I
smacked by the sheer volume of jawboning relatives
have always given my kids what that boisterous activity
and casserole dishes. I can’t help but mourn the tradi-
was rooted in: love.
tions they’ll never know that make up so much of who I am and where I’m from. But as I move through the holiday season, I can see how quieter traditions have snuck their way into our
186 |
routine. There is tradition in the dozens of paper snow-
I hope that within this season of cheer, you truly find some traditions—be they clamorous or calm. And if you find yourself needing a buddy to hit up an ice-skating rink, I got you. ■
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