Compiled by John Sanders Henna for Teens JULY 15 Teenagers can come to the library and receive a free henna tattoo from Manjushree Nomulwhar, a professional henna artist. Manjushree will also explain to the youth how to create henna tattoos and make them last. Playa Vista Branch Library, 6400 Playa Vista Drive, Playa Vista, free […]
Extraordinary Rides: Genesis GV80 SUV: Powerful engine, stereo
By C.A. Haire, Playa Vista Contributor Traditionally, consumers looking for an imported luxury SUV opt for a European or Japanese brand. However, Korean manufacturers have entered the market, and their Genesis lineup is a strong contender. The price of the enhanced Prestige GV80 is compelling, at a neat $81K. This cabin is absolutely plush, featuring […]
Every Step is an Adventure: Traveling solo creates friendships, memories
By Karen Schaffner, Playa Vista Staff Writer There’s no sitting still on a seven-country, eight-day bus tour of Europe. The travel organization Expat Explore introduced guests to breathtaking spots like the Eiffel Tower and Venice, Boppard, Germany, and Dijon, France. This particular tour, called European Vistas, was very well organized and led by Mayra Arboleta, […]
‘The Art of Canine Cuisine’: A cookbook for dog-loving foodies
By Jessica Koslow, Playa Vista Contributor Lady Gaga loves the book, and so do Jennifer Aniston and Chris Pine. Author Deborah Davis’ three rescue dogs, Bellissima (Bella), Bootsie and Daisy, really love the book. “The Art of Canine Cuisine” is a vet-approved cookbook for foodies and their furry friends. It is 100-plus pages of recipes, […]
A ‘Neurotic’ Show: Santa Monica scribe, producer wins podcast award
By Laura Latzko, Playa Vista Staff Writer Santa Monica writer, producer, cartoonist and podcast host Andy Cowan has built a career by working on various projects, including writing for shows such as “Cheers,” “Seinfeld,” “Third Rock from the Sun” and “The Merv Griffin Show.” His most recent project is his podcast, “The Neurotic Vaccine.” Recently, […]
A Throwback: Washington Square Pizza pays homage to the area’s O.G. nickname
By Jessica Koslow, Playa Vista Contributing Writer Tima Bell was born in New York City and raised part-time in Venice Beach. Growing up, the Venice locals referred to the last block of Washington Boulevard, which has always been a lively area peppered with restaurants and shops, as Washington Square. About two years ago, when the […]
2 businesses, 1 space: Alana’s Coffee Roasters + The VB Grab & Go
By Jessica Koslow, Playa Vista Contributing Writer It is the prettiest place on Pacific Avenue between Washington and Venice boulevards in Venice. It’s also the only business on the long and narrow beachside strand. What used to be Sal’s Deli & Market and a vegan pop-up called XMarket is now home to the third LA […]
Breaking Bread: New bakery reflects owners’ heritage
By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski, Playa Vista Executive Editor Lenny Rosenberg knows his way around a bakery. While growing up in Plainview, Long Island, Rosenberg was surrounded by his father’s breads and baked goods. “He got his hands dirty at home, too,” Rosenberg said. “He made some bakery items at home, but he spent most of his […]
Cal-Ital Community Hang: Beethoven Market keeps its name but changes its game
By Jessica Koslow, Playa Vista Contributing Writer In the 1940s, a mid-century modern neighborhood called the Mar Vista Tract was popping up near Palms and Beethoven boulevards. This very corner became the home of Beethoven Market, which operated for 75 years before shutting its doors. Local residents would stock up on snacks, drinks and lottery […]
Events Calendar: May/June 2025
By John Sanders and Lilly Roseburrough, Playa Vista Staff Writers “A Spring Soiree” MAY 7 Westside Pacific Villages, a local volunteer non-profit composed of individuals who assist older neighbors in maintaining their independence at home, is hosting a fundraiser. Westside Pacific Villages particularly focuses on widowed older adults and those living alone or far from […]