By Ashley Meza Charishma Cohen didn’t intend to become an influencer. However, the success of her “Life with a Landcloud” content has granted her the opportunity to become a strong mental health advocate in her community. What started off as fun videos of her dog Boomer to make followers smile turned into a successful career […]
featured stories
Editor
New Year, New Name
2023 is officially here and I’m excited to announce the debut of our first official issue as Playa Vista Magazine (formerly Playa Vista Direct) with all of you! While our name may be slightly different, we still look forward to sharing the latest and greatest content with you about the vibrant community of neighbors and […]
Food
Epic Cookies: Derrick Fox brings mega-sized sweet treats to Playa Vista
By Kamala Kirk Derrick Fox of “MasterChef” has brought the ultimate sweet treat to Playa Vista. The famed chef, who appeared on season 6 of television’s “MasterChef,” is the founder of Epic Mega Cookie Co., which debuted its first brick-and-mortar location last fall at the renowned Box Shop at RUNWAY. “As soon as we were […]
Staying Cheesy: I Heart Mac and Cheese comes to the Westside
By Morgan Owen It’s hard not to be successful when the main item on your menu is macaroni and cheese. In the heart of Westchester, I Heart Mac and Cheese launched its first Los Angeles location. Opening the new franchise in Westchester was a leap of faith, says Colin Inatsugu, the restaurant’s lead shift supervisor, […]
The Samsons stand out with a bright California osteria
By Jessica Koslow Superfine Playa’s electric blue building and bright red letters near the roof boldly announce its arrival at Silicon Beach’s RUNWAY Playa Vista. The playful structure is energizing and eye-catching. What used to be The Bull and Butterfly Steakhouse transitioned to a casual California osteria on January 1 and officially opened its doors […]
Events
December Events Calendar
Compiled by Playa Vista Staff Marina Lights THROUGHOUT DECEMBER There’s nothing more festive than holiday lights wrapped around trees throughout 10-acre Burton Chace Park. The spectacular display of sparkling lights and décor is up every night in December. Burton Chace Park, 13650 Mindanao Way, Marina del Rey, free, 4 to 10 p.m., www.visitmdr.com Acoustic Fridays […]
People
Life with a Landcloud: From dog videos to mental health advocacy
By Ashley Meza Charishma Cohen didn’t intend to become an influencer. However, the success of her “Life with a Landcloud” content has granted her the opportunity to become a strong mental health advocate in her community. What started off as fun videos of her dog Boomer to make followers smile turned into a successful career […]
Sterling Silver: Local Girl Scout earns award for traffic safety research
By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski Gabriela Tsimanis was fed up with drivers recklessly navigating their way near Playa Vista Elementary School. So, the member of Girl Scout Troop 2155 researched the problem for her Girl Scout Silver Award project. The Silver Award requires a 50-hour commitment. She found that drivers speed and do not halt at stop […]
Travel
Sunday Sailors: Marina del Rey club recruiting new members for their adventures
By Morgan Owen Skip Korsgaard gathers everyone in the cockpit of his 36-foot Catalina mach II Dream Weaver. They all sit patiently as Korsgaard takes their names for the log and explains how to stay safe aboard the boat before they depart Marina del Rey. “Until I get to know you, please stay up in […]