By Jessica Koslow This year marks 19 years since Tami Humphrey began her real estate career in Playa Vista. Over nearly two decades, she has witnessed the community’s tremendous growth firsthand. “I started working in Playa Vista and the surrounding areas when I moved here in 2006,” Humphrey shared. “I love this community so much, […]
Focusing on Well-Being: Eden Garcia-Balis cares for the community
By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski Eden Garcia-Balis firmly believes everybody deserves quality mental health care, regardless of socio-economic status. After working as a case manager, she wanted to do more, so she decided she needed to earn her master’s degree in counseling. “I’ve always been drawn to community mental health,” she said. “I earned my license and […]
‘Keeping It Real’: Integrity is key to Aileen Smollins’ career
By Jessica Koslow After spending years running her own all-inclusive resort-based travel company, Aileen Smollins discovered a new talent flipping houses — which quickly blossomed into her next career. It’s been an amazing journey, she said. It was her calling. Her first house was a craftsman in the Jefferson Park area of Los Angeles. “I […]
Portrait of a Visionary: Assil Gaur Eye Institute is taking Lasik, eye care to the next level
By Ed Condran When LeBron James returned quickly from a torn tendon in his right foot in 2023, the Los Angeles Lakers superstar was asked about his recovery. “I went to the LeBron James of feet,” James replied. Well, when James aimed to improve his vision with Lasik surgery, the future NBA Hall of Famer […]
Clear sky, clear thoughts: Take time out at luxury ranch
By Karen Schaffner Talk about living your best life. At work, the phone doesn’t stop ringing, there’s one crisis after another and, because of it all, it’s time for a break. About 66 miles northwest of Phoenix, Rancho de los Caballeros in Wickenburg, Arizona, is the place to refresh and hear yourself think again. The […]
Extraordinary Rides: 2025 Mazda CX-70 has superb quality
By C.A. Haire Traditionally, consumers shopping for a luxury Japanese SUV will consider the Lexus or Infiniti brands. Now Mazda has entered the upgrade market with their CX-70 offering. If the name does not impress, its $58K price tag of this Premium Plus model should. An outstanding feature is found under the hood. Instead of […]
A World Away: Find yourself again in Sedona
By Karen Schaffner Sedona’s landscape is unlike any other in the Sonoran Desert or Southern California. It’s no wonder that some visitors are so moved by its beauty that they remember who they are, renew their spirits and find peace. Of course, not everyone experiences this or wants to. Some go simply to be captivated […]
Twin Teeth Orthodontics: A synergy of passion, precision and care
Special to Playa Vista Magazine Twin Teeth Orthodontics opened its doors two years ago, bringing a new level of expertise, efficiency and warmth to orthodontic care in Playa Vista. Founded by twin sisters Drs. Michelle and Christine Stepanek, this boutique orthodontic practice embodies the perfect synergy of science and artistry, delivering beautiful, healthy smiles with […]
California Wildfire Assistance: Help is available for those affected by the tragedy
Compiled by Staff Several organizations throughout various locations are lending a helping hand to those affected by the wildfires. Visit Laguna Beach To support residents displaced from their homes or forced to evacuate by the wildfires, Visit Laguna Beach is working closely with local partners and Laguna Beach area hotels to offer discounted accommodations. “We […]
Combatting Wildfire Crimes: Law enforcement officials form task force
Special to Playa Vista Magazine The leaders of federal and local law enforcement agencies have joined together to create the Joint Regional Fire Crimes Task Force to investigate and prosecute fire-related crimes as Los Angeles County recovers from devastating wildfires. The Task Force will focus on investigating and prosecuting criminals seeking to exploit the wildfire […]