Dolphins Can’t Get Over Hills

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December 2, 2009

Palisades captain Kathryn Gaskin tries to deke Granada Hills' Nicole Thompson in the Dolphins' 2-0 loss November 25 at Stadium by the Sea. — Palisades captain Kathryn Gaskin tries to deke Granada Hills’ Nicole Thompson in the Dolphins’ 2-0 loss November 25 at Stadium by the Sea.
Photo by Rich Schmitt, *Staff Photographer*

It must have felt like deja vu when the Palisades High girls’ varsity soccer team hosted Granada Hills in its nonleague opener last Tuesday night at Stadium by the Sea. The Highlanders scored a goal in each half to prevail 2-0, the same opponent and score as the Dolphins’ last game in February, a playoff loss that ended their season. Neither team was at full strength. Palisades was missing several of its top players, forcing Coach Kim Smith to juggle her lineup. “We had players in new positions,” she said. One change is moving Tiffany Falk from midfield to defense. Falk, a senior, is co-captain this year with junior forward Kathryn Gaskin, who led the team with 19 goals last season. As was the case in February, she was tightly marked and had only one shot on goal against Granada Hills. Meredith Kornfeind led the way with five shots and goalie Jessica Levin made five saves for Palisades. Smith has scheduled quality nonleague opponents to help prepare the Dolphins for the postseason. Palisades scored 105 goals and allowed only 12 last season, but it was not accustomed to playing close games against severely overmatched teams in the Western League. “We were winning every game so easily last season that we kind of panicked when we fell behind [Granada Hills],” Gaskin said. “Obviously we want to win league again but our goal is to get further in the playoffs.” Palisades hosted Taft Wednesday and its own tournament, the Palisades Holiday Showcase, begins Friday. The Dolphins host Reseda at 6:30 p.m. Friday, then play twice Saturday, against Bakersfield Stockdale at 1 p.m. and Sylmar at 7:15 p.m. Boys’ Soccer Coach Dave Suarez’ varsity squad won its season opener over Crossroads, 2-1, last week and beat San Pedro, 3-0, Monday at Stadium by the Sea. The Dolphins wrap up their nonleague schedule at home on December 14 against Santa Monica. The JV game kicks off at 4:30 p.m., followed by the varsity at 6. Santa Monica defeated Palisades in a practice game November 20.

Bellamy Nets Another Doubles Title

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December 2, 2009

Robbie Bellamy won the National Tennis Open doubles title in Irvine last weekend.

Palisades High freshman Robbie Bellamy wasn’t quite feeling 100 percent, but he was good enough to capture his third doubles title of the season last Sunday, winning the USTA National Tennis Open in Irvine. Bellamy and partner Gage Brymer of Irvine were seeded No. 1 and played like it, beating duos from California, Nevada and Arizona. They lost just 12 games in five matches, even more impressive considering Bellamy was nursing bruised ribs and could barely hit a ball before the tournament. Earlier this year Bellamy won the Agassi Championships in Las Vegas with Abe Hewko of La Quinta. Two weeks ago he won the JP Yamasaki with Jake DeVries of Irvine. His latest victory could move him into the Top 10 in the nation for his age group. Bellamy’s recent success has come without his normal partner, fellow Palisadian Alex Giannini, who is back from a broken foot and will play with Bellamy this weekend at a tournament in Palm Springs. The pair is gearing up for the Copper Bowl in Tucson, Arizona, over Winter Break. Jake Sands, a fourth-grader at Palisades Elementary, reached the finals of the Rancho Cienega Tennis Shop Junior Open last Sunday. The 9-year-old upset No.2-seeded Christian Settles, 7-5, 7-5, in the semifinals before falling to top-seeded Ryan Nuno in the finals.

Jeanie Buss: Palisades’ Laker Girl

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November 27, 2009

Executive VP of LA’s Premiere Sports Franchise Is Proud of Her Roots

Ask any Lakers fan to name their most valuable player and the answer you’re most likely to hear is Kobe Bryant. When it comes to the organization’s most valuable person, however, someone who deserves to be in the conversation is Jeanie Buss, Executive Vice President of Business Operations. No one bleeds purple and gold more than the daughter of team owner Dr. Jerry Buss. She has long been the voice and face of the team, having worked on both the promotions side and operations side of the business, but her first claim to fame was being named Miss Palisades in 1979. Thirty years later, the memory hasn’t faded. “It was a great experience for a 17-year-old,” said Buss, the guest speaker at last Friday’s Pacific Palisades Chamber of Commerce general membership breakfast at Riviera Country Club. “It improved my speaking skills, my posture, my demeanor, everything. Actor Adam West (who played the Caped Crusader in the ‘Batman’ TV show) was one of the judges, and I remember being so shocked and surprised when I won. That was something totally different than homecoming queen or class president because those are more about popularity.” When Jeanie was growing up (she is the third of six children) the Buss family lived on Ranch Lane in Rustic Canyon, and she recalled holding a graduation party at her house on the same night her father bought the Lakers (along with the Kings hockey franchise and The Forum in Inglewood, where both teams played). “It got pretty loud and the police came,” she said. Little did Jeanie or her siblings know then how dramatically their lives would change: “I’d grown up knowing I’d be involved in the family business, which at the time was real estate development, but this was a whole new venture.” Buss has learned a lot about the intricacies of the game through her boyfriend of 10 years, current Lakers coach Phil Jackson, who has educated her about the pros and cons of zone defense and how to execute the pick and roll. “He can get pretty intense sometimes,” she said, laughing. Jeanie traces her knowledge of basketball, however, back to Palisades High, where she tried golf and JV basketball and, most significantly, kept statistics for the boys’ varsity team, coached by Jerry Marvin. “I learned the rules, how to keep score and all of the terminology that enabled me to talk about it once I got involved with the Lakers,” she said. “If someone asked me what traveling meant, I could easily explain it to them.” When she began her career at the age of 19 while attending USC, Buss had to think of creative ways to fill The Forum on the 200 nights a year the Lakers and Kings weren’t playing. She found her niche in the “orphan” sports, serving as general manager of the L.A. Strings (World Team Tennis) and later the L.A. Blades professional roller hockey team. “My dad realized that child labor is very cheap,” said Buss, who worked while pursuing her business degree. “I guess you could say that was my way of paying off my tuition.” One question posed to Buss at last Friday’s breakfast was what she has learned the most from each of her parents: “My father taught me to hire the most talented people and let them do their jobs. My smile and my laugh come from my mom [Joann]. She’s taught me the importance of having fun.” At the time Jeanie broke into the sports business, it was still a male-dominated profession. She learned early on that simply being herself was the best way to establish credibility amongst her peers: “I’ve gotten used to it. In fact, the other day I was in a meeting with eight guys and I broke the ice by suggesting we sit boy-girl, boy-girl. That lightened the mood a bit.” Now in her sixth season as executive vice president, Jeanie describes her job as the “revenue-generating side” of the Lakers, whereas basketball is the “revenue-spending” side. One of the riskiest decisions the organization made was relocating the team to Staples Center in 1999. “I was of the belief that nobody goes downtown, but it’s been 10 years and 95 to 98 percent of our season ticket holders renew every year,” said Buss, who now resides in Playa del Rey. “The downtown area has been revitalized and the Lakers moving there has stimulated that whole movement.” Buss’ tireless dedication to her trade has helped build the Lakers into one of the world’s most popular professional sports franchises. “We like to think the Lakers are America’s team and that’s why we travel to other markets in the preseason,” Buss said. “We want that NBA fan who doesn’t root for a specific team to adopt the Lakers. That’s why we have fans all over the globe.”

Bamberger Runs Third in City

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November 27, 2009

Palisades High freshman Jacklyn Bamberger finished third at Saturday's City Section cross country finals and qualified for the state meet. Photo: Eric Lopez — Palisades High freshman Jacklyn Bamberger finished third at Saturday’s City Section cross country finals and qualified for the state meet. Photo: Eric Lopez

She didn’t have that normal spring in her step, but Palisades High freshman Jacklyn Bamberger handled the pressure of her first big race like a seasoned pro, running the three-mile course at Pierce College in 18 minutes, 32 seconds to place third at Saturday morning’s City Section cross country championships. Bamberger was in the lead group from the start but couldn’t maintain the brisk pace set by San Pedro senior Laura Delgado, who pulled away in the last half mile to win in 18:16 and spur the Pirates to their seventh team title in 11 years. Senior Fany Alvarado of Taft came in second, three seconds ahead of Bamberger. Bamberger easily qualified for Saturday’s state meet in Fresno–an experience she is looking forward to. ‘Definitely. It will be a lot of fun,” she said. “I’m anxious to see what that course is like.” Bamberger ran a personal-best 18:20 at the City prelims one week before the finals–clocking the fastest time in any of the three qualifying heats. She predicted she would need to run under 18 minutes to beat City contender Jaclyn Walles of Venice, who was under the weather at prelims and ran 18:42. Walles wound up fourth in the finals in 18:43 and also qualified for the state meet. “When I was warming up, my legs just felt heavier than usual today,” said Bamberger, who set several school records this season for a ninth-grader. “I gave it my all but it’s hard to know when you’re going to have a good day or a bad day.” Saturday’s performance was perfectly fine for Dolphins’ coach Ron Brumel, who believes the sky’s the limit for his freshman phenom. “If she continues to work at it, there’s no telling how good she can be by the time she’s a senior,” Brumel said. “What’s she’s done already is amazing considering that she’s only been running competitively for a short time.” Senior Michelle Colato was the Dolphins’ second scorer, completing the course in 20:27 and finishing in 36th place. Sophia Stone (20:50) was 49th, Jamilett Maldonado and Wendy Gomez crossed the line together in 22:51 and Melissa Tallis finished in 24:52. As a team, Palisades’ girls placed 10th with a cumulative total of 227. “It hasn’t really sunk in yet that I made state,” Bamberger said. “I’m a little disappointed I didn’t win, but the two girls who beat me are seniors so hopefully I’ll have more chances.” Sophomore Grant Stromberg has paced the boys’ team all season and did so again the boys’ finals race. He started in the middle of the pack but began to pick off tiring runners late and finished 20th in 16:05, falling a few spots short of a berth in the state meet. Freshman Drake Johnston finished in 44th place in 16:46, followed by Danny Escalante (17:55), Daniel Hernandez (18:22) and senior Carlos Bustamante (18:30), who persevered despite being hampered by injuries all season. He has served as a mentor to the Dolphins’ up-and-comers and hopes to return to form on the track this spring. Evan Shaner (18:44) and Alex Hernandez (18:54) rounded out the PaliHi squad, which was 13th in the team competition with 228 points. San Pedro senior Pablo Rosales, a friend and rival of Bustamante the last several years, won in 14:31, a new City finals record. Stromberg was the fastest sophomore at this year’s City championships and ran the eighth fastest time for a 10th grader in finals history. Not to be outdone by his older PaliHi teammate, Drake Johnston was the fastest freshman at the finals and ran the ninth fastest time for a ninth-grader in finals history.

Bears Are NCAA Champions

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November 27, 2009

Ali Hoffman (left) and Drew Hargrave hold the Division III volleyball championship trophy.

Palisadians Ali Hoffman and Drew Hargrave hold the championship trophy after leading Washington University in St. Louis to its 10th NCAA Division III women’s volleyball championship with a 18-25, 26-24, 25-17, 25-21 finals victory over Juniata College last Saturday in Cleveland, Ohio. Hoffman is a junior defensive specialist and Hargrave is a freshman outside hitter for the Bears, who finished the season with a 34-4 record. Hoffman won a state title her senior year at Marymount High and Hargrave won a CIF title at Brentwood last year.

PALISADES PACESETTERS

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November 27, 2009

Adlawan Cup karate winners Carl Fredlin (back), Chris Wheeles and Katie Schwartz.

Nine-year-old Katie Schwartz, a fourth grader at Marquez Elementary and student at Gerry Blanck’s Martial Arts Center, recently took first place in Kids Green Belt forms at the Adlawan Cup Karate Tournament in Santa Ana. Also winning was third degree Black Belt instructor Chris Wheeles, who was second in Adult Black Belt Forms and Sparring and Carl Fredlin was fourth in the Senior Blue and Green Belt division. Madison Wojciechowski, a junior on the University of Pennsylvania women’s volleyball squad, has been named First-Team All-Ivy League. Penn won the league championship to qualify for the NCAA Tournament beginning December 3. Caitlin Blosser, a freshman on the Princeton women’s soccer team, has been named All-Ivy League–only the second freshman to make All-Ivy at Princeton since 2004. Seventh-grader Maile Lane led the Calvary Christian girls’ cross country team to the Delphic League championship last week, finishing in fourth place in 12:09 for two miles. Eight-grader Emma Seaman was fifth in 12:25. Seventh-grader David Grinsfelder was third in the boys’ race in 11:13.

Corneli Moves on at City Tourney

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November 27, 2009

Palisades High's Jessie Corneli has moved into the third round of the City Individual singles tournament. — Palisades High’s Jessie Corneli has moved into the third round of the City Individual singles tournament.
Photo by Rich Schmitt, *Staff Photographer*

Former coach Bud Kling was instructing Palisades High’s players during this year’s City Individual tournament and top player Jessie Corneli was still alive after two rounds at Balboa Sports Center in Encino. Corneli defeated Marshall’s Spencer Trotta, 7-6 (6), 5-7, 1-0 (6) Monday and advanced to yesterday’s round of 16 against Alexandra Tallas of Granada Hills. Tallas eliminated Palisades’ Elizabeth Silvers in the second round. In doubles, the Dolphins’ duo of Katie Takakjian and Charlotte Farrant fell to Grace Grogman and Amy Tu of El Camino Real, 7-6 (1), 6-3. Spikers Lose in Semifinals Taft of Woodland Hills snapped Palisades’ 12-match winning streak in the City Section playoffs with a stunning 25-17, 20-25, 25-17, 25-15 win last Tuesday night in the Division II semifinals. Freshman outside hitter Katie Kaufman led the Dolphins with seven kills, senior outside hitter Emily Cristiano added five kills, senior libero Tait Johnson had three aces and eight digs, senior middle blocker Hannah Fagerbakke had three blocks and senior setter Lauren Gustafson finished with 28 assists.

Shirley Haggstrom: Enduring Volunteer

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November 25, 2009

Shirley Haggstrom in the streambed at Los Liones Gateway Park, which she hopes will one day be restored to its natural free-flowing state every winter. Rich Schmitt/Staff Photographer

Shirley Haggstrom walks through Los Liones Gateway Park, marveling at how things have grown since she and other volunteers helped win the fight to save this half-mile slice of land as state parkland. At one time, ‘people wanted to develop this area and build condominiums,’ Haggstrom said in an interview, and later ‘Kehillat Israel wanted it for a school.’ In recognition of her ongoing efforts to help maintain the landscaping at Los Liones (just north of Sunset Boulevard), and her decades of activism with the Castellammare Homeowners Association, the Pacific Palisades Community Council and the Historical Society, Haggstrom will receive a Community Service Award from the Community Council on December 10. She was surprised at the honor, after having written a letter nominating Ethel Haydon (who will also receive the Council’s top award, along with Paul Glasgall and Barbara Kohn). ‘I didn’t know anyone had written a letter for me,’ Haggstrom said. ‘I prefer working under the radar.’ At Los Liones, which lies between Castellammare and Paseo Miramar, ‘we’re working to have a shunt installed at the top of the park [the trailhead into the Santa Monica Mountains] with Proposition O money,’ Haggstrom said. Instead of having runoff water from the mountains travel directly into the ocean through a giant storm drain, the idea is to have the shunt divert this water through a half-mile porous creekbed. ’The UV rays from the sun would help kill the bacteria,’ she said. ‘Los Liones Park could be the poster canyon for clean water,’ while also regaining a natural streambed during the rainy season. ’When we reclaimed the park [in 1999],’ Haggstrom added, ‘the streambed was all concrete. People who have lived here for a long time said there used to be water in it and kids would play in the stream.’ About a half-dozen women meet regularly on Thursdays to maintain the park by weeding, picking up trash and watering. Although Haggstrom can’t always join them, she goes once a week to water recently planted oak trees. One two-foot-tall tree is safely enclosed by a small wire fence, keeping it safe from hungry deer. ’This is a special tree,’ Haggstrom said. ‘It started as an acorn from Founders Oak Island [on Haverford Avenue] and it is in honor of my husband, Gus, who died a few years ago.’ A native of Colorado, Haggstrom married Gus in 1959. After he held university faculty positions in Colorado, Chicago and San Francisco, the couple moved to Castellammare in 1972 when Gus joined The Rand Corporation. Their two children attended Marquez Elementary School, where Shirley, a former high school teacher, became active reading to kindergarten students. Chris, now 41, works for Ticketmaster and is married to an attorney, Tamara. His brother, Eric, died of kidney disease when he was 16. Through her sons, Haggstrom developed an interest in tennis. After enrolling them in a class at the Palisades Recreation Center, she decided that it looked like fun and signed up for her own lessons. Hooked on the sport, she continues to play three times a week. Haggstrom served on the board of the Castellammare Homeowners Association for many years. During that time, the board opposed construction of a new amphitheater at the Getty Villa without community input. ‘We were not so much opposed to the Getty, but to the possible noise,’ she said, noting that the association continues to work with the Getty about ongoing noise issues, especially garbage trucks. Haggstrom is now more of an advisor ‘because I have the historical memory.’ The association’s latest challenge is getting the City of Los Angeles to follow through with a stoplight at Los Liones and Sunset Boulevard. ‘It was required by law by the City when they gave Waldorf School permission to open at that location,’ she said. ‘I was recently at a meeting trying to get that done.’ Along the way, Haggstrom served eight years on the Community Council, including a two-year term as chairman from 1996 to 1998’a role she described as ‘a 24-hour-a-day job.’ When she ‘retired,’ a Palisadian-Post editorial commented that ‘Haggstrom built on the foundation established by past chairmen and, with good-humored efficiency, made it an even more vital local entity.’ She recently completed a two-year stint on the council as the Historical Society representative. ‘It is amazing that all of the things we dealt with when I was chair have returned, including cell towers and billboards,’ she said. While Historical Society president, Haggstrom helped make it possible for Pacific Palisades historical photographs to be preserved, catalogued and made available to the public through the Santa Monica Library.’ Periodically, Haggstrom organizes cleanup days at Founders Oak Island and quietly removes graffiti in her neighborhood, while also serving on the board of the Temescal Canyon Association. ’There is still wonderful volunteerism in the community that inspires other volunteers,’ she said. ‘The one change that perturbs me is the lack of community with one’s neighbors’the ‘me first, I’m going to have it’ mentality.’ As one example, she pointed out that a few years back when the Castellammare Homeowners Association would explain the neighborhood’s prevailing CCR’s (conditions, covenants and restrictions) to newcomers who wanted to remodel or build a new home, they and their architects would cooperate. ’Now they’re litigious,’ Haggstrom said. ‘I would like to see a little more neighborliness.’

CLASSIFIED ADS FOR THE WEEK OF NOVEMBER 26, 2009

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November 25, 2009

HOMES WANTED 1b

NEWLY MARRIED COUPLE seeks to assist you in readying your home, with guesthouse, for the market in exchange for a 1 year lease with option to buy. (310) 823-6380

CONDOS/TOWNHOMES FOR SALE 1e

$249,000. IMMACULATE SENIOR UNIT, very cheerful and quiet. 1 bd, 1 ba. Minimum age 62, 2 car parking, elevator, patio, close to everything. Broker, (310) 795-3795 (c), (310) 456-8770 (h)

FURNISHED HOMES 2

EXECUTIVE RENTAL. Immaculate, fully furnished, 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath. Pool, gym, spa, near trailheads, mountain view. (310) 459-9111

UNFURNISHED HOMES 2a

3 ROOM GUESTHOUSE, Full kitchen, balcony, hardwood floors, quiet garden setting. Washer & dryer in garage. Cat o.k. 1 year lease. $2,200/mo. Utilities included. (310) 454-8150

2 BDRM, 2 BA, 2 car garage, private deck & garden, lndry, new kitchen, dishwasher, microwave, hardwd floors. Nice quiet area. Pets o.k. Reduced rent to $3,500/mo. O.B.O. (310) 454-4599, (310) 266-4151

CHARMING 3 BEDROOM, 2 BATH. Spanish. Close to the village with hardwood floors, fireplace, and canyon view. $4,975/mo. Contact Dolly Niemann, (310) 230-3706

3 BDRM, 1 BA. $3,300/mo. 1/2 utilities, 2 car parking, close to village, schools, shops, & beach. Pets o.k. Appliances, W/D, D/W, & refrigerator. Min. 1 year lease. By appt. only. Eric, (310) 428-3364

ONE LEVEL REMODELED bright home 3 bd, 2 ba, PL, TC, gym, private backyard, $4,500/mo. Judy, (310) 454-0696

UNFURNISHED APARTMENTS 2c

CUTE & COZY SINGLE mediterranean triplex near village & bluffs. Full kitchen, bath, laundry, garden, and carport. 1 year lease. Non-smoking building. No pets. $1,500/mo. (310) 804-3142

BRIGHT, LARGE, 3 BD+2 BA ,1,500 sq. ft., top floor, 1 garage+1 tandem, new carpets. Great closet space. 1 yr. lease. N/S. $2,500/mo. (310) 498-0149

2 BD, 1 BA UNIT AVAILABLE. $1,850/mo. upper unit available now. Vintage 6 unit building. Includes water. Approx. 800 sq. ft., Hardwood, tile floors. Lite & brite. Shared laundry. Pet o.k. with approval. 1 year lease. (424) 228-4570

NOVEMBER SPECIAL, one month free. One bdrm. $1,285/mo., or large studio $1,125/mo. refrigerator, gas stove, laundry, covered parking, storage. No pets, non-smoker. (310) 477-6767

SPACIOUS, LIGHT UPPER UNIT in unique mediterranean triplex. 1,850 sq. ft. 2 bdrm, 1 ba + office, fireplace, fans, shutters, balconies & garden. Perfect for a couple. $3,000/mo. No pets, non-smoker, 1 year lease. (310) 804-3142

CHARMING, SUNNY UPPER UNIT. 1 bdrm. + office/den. Hardwood floors, 2 fireplaces, 2 bthrms., 1 car garage, on-site laundry, small pet considered. $2,300/mo. (310) 459-5576

BEAUTIFUL 2 BDRM APT. FOR RENT * 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom. Large balcony. Minutes walk from beach, village and Temescal Park. High cathedral wood ceilings. Tile floor in kitchen and bathroom. Swimming pool and laundry facilities. 2 parking spots included. Lots of closet space. Nice small building (18 units). Pet friendly. $1,800/mo. Call (310) 403-5273 or (818) 308-5655

CONDOS/TOWNHOMES FOR RENT 2d

SPACIOUS 3 BDRM, 3 BA TOWNHOME in Pacific Palisades. Tennis court & swimming pool. $3,500/mo. Call Judy, (310) 454-0696

LARGE VIEW TOWNHOME * Beautiful ‘villa’ with mtn/cyn views! Great floorplan features high ceilings, skylite, A/C, shutters, wood floors, and private 2-car garage. 2 bd + 2 ‘ ba. Plus FR, FDR. Large master suite with FP, balcony, W.I.C., and views. $3,200/mo. Sharon/John/Victoria, Coldwell Banker Company, (310) 573-7737

RENTALS TO SHARE 3a

LOOKING FOR FURNISHED BEDROOM in house or large condo/apartment. Middle aged, professional, single man. Quiet, neat, non-smoker, responsible. (240) 461-3643

WANTED TO RENT 3b

LOOKING FOR GUEST HOUSE or small house. Longtime Palisades resident. Mature single woman. Quiet, non smoker. Great tenant. (310) 454-4950

SEEKING APARTMENT FOR HOLIDAYS. We are looking for an apartment, condo, or house to rent for out of town guests (2 adults, 1 child) from Dec. 24-Jan. 4. Contact Daniel, (310) 562-1615

OFFICE/STORE RENTALS 3c

THE SKI CHANNEL in the 881 Alma Real building has 2 offices and 2 cubes for sub-lease featuring shared use of many amenities. (310) 230-2050

ONE OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT in Pacific Palisades Village. $1,250/mo. Call (310) 230-8335

LARGE FABULOUS OFFICE in private, quiet, intimate setting. Tons of storage and light. Available October 1, 2009 at $849/month. Parking available. (310) 991-9434, ask for Jessica.

PALISADES OFFICE, RETAIL SUITES & EXECUTIVE SUITES NOW AVAILABLE in the heart of the village: Office suites up to 3,235 sf and 700 sf retail suite. Executive suites now available with conf room, kitchen, copy machine, etc. Building has amazing views of the Santa Monica mountains, private balconies. Amenities include high speed T1 internet access, elevator, and secured underground parking. CALL BRETT AT (310) 591-8789 or email brett@hp-cap.com

SUBLET OFFICE(S) WITHIN EXISTING LAW FIRM. Two adjacent offices (14×14 & 11×11) available within confines of existing estate and trust law practice in the Atrium Building on Via de la Paz. Excellent opportunity for a synergistic relationship with the right practitioner. Month to month rate negotiable depending on needs. Internet available. Call (310) 459-5353 to arrange to see.

VACATION RENTALS 3e

MAMMOTH SKI CHATEAU RENTAL. Blocks from Canyon Lodge, brand new 2400 sq. ft. premium luxury townhome with limestone and hardwood floors throughout. Sleeps up to 14 people. Call: (310) 454-7313

FOUR FULLY SELF-CONTAINED trailers for rent across from Will Rogers State Beach & about 2 miles from Santa Monica Pier. $1,095/mo. & $895/mo. (310) 454-2515

LOST & FOUND 6a

FOUND: KEYS. 700 block of Radcliffe. Call to identify: (310) 459-2608

BOOKKEEPING/ACCOUNTING 7b

ACCOUNTANT/CONTROLLER. Quickbooks/Quicken setup. Outsource the hassle’all bookkeeping needs including tax prep for home or office. Get organized now! (310) 562-0635

QUICKBOOKS. Approved accounting principles. Personal or business record keeping by local Palisadian. (310) 570-6085, www.bigsisterworkshop.com

COMPUTER SERVICES 7c

MARIE’S MAC & PC OUTCALL. I CAN HELP YOU IN YOUR HOME OR OFFICE WITH: ‘ Consultation on best hard/software for your needs ‘ Setting up & configuring your system & applications ‘ Teaching you how to use your Mac or PC ‘ Upgrades: Mac OS & Windows ‘ Internet: DSL, Wireless, E-mail, Remote Access ‘ Key Applications: MS Office, Filemaker, Quicken ‘ Contact Managers, Networking, File Sharing, Data backup ‘ Palm, Visor, Digital Camera, Scanner, CD Burning ‘ FRIENDLY & PROFESSIONAL ‘ BEST RATES ‘ (310) 262-5652

YOUR OWN TECH GURU * EXPERT SET-UP, OPTIMIZATION, REPAIR. Problem-Free Computing Since 1992. Work Smarter, Faster, More Reliably. If I Can’t Help, NO CHARGE! ALAN PERLA, (310) 455-2000

THE DETECHTIVES’ ‘ PROFESSIONAL ON-SITE MAC SPECIALISTS. PATIENT, FRIENDLY AND AFFORDABLE. WE COVER ALL THINGS MAC ‘ Consulting ‘ Installation ‘ Training and Repair for Beginners to Advanced Users ‘ Data recovery ‘ Networks ‘ Wireless Internet & more ‘ (310) 838-2254 ‘ William Moorefield ‘ www.thedetechtives.com

EXPERT COMPUTER HELP ‘ On-Site Service’No travel charge ‘ Help design, buy and install your system ‘ One-on-One Training, Hard & Software ‘ Troubleshooting, Mac & Windows, Organizing ‘ Installations & Upgrades ‘ Wireless Networking ‘ Digital Phones, Photo, Music ‘ Internet ‘ Serving the Palisades, Santa Monica & Brentwood ‘ DEVIN FRANK, (310) 499-7000

USER FRIENDLY’MAC CONSULTANT. User friendly. Certified Apple help desk technician and proud member of the Apple consultant network. An easy approach to understanding all of your computer needs. Offering computer support in wide variety of repairs, set-ups, installs, troubleshooting, upgrades, networking, and tutoring in the application of choice. Computer consulting at fair rates. Ryan Ross: (310) 721-2827 ‘ email: ryanaross@mac.com ‘ For a full list of services visit: http://userfriendlyrr.com/

PALISADES COMPUTER REPAIR. Based in Pacific Palisades. Prices posted online. (310) 454-6912. www.palisadesrepair.com

GARAGE, ESTATE SALE SERVICES 7f

PLANNING A GARAGE SALE? an estate sale? a moving sale? a yard sale? Call it what you like. But call us to do it for you. We do the work. Start to finish. ‘ BARBARA DAWSON ‘ Estate/Garage Sale Specialist ‘ (310) 454-0359 ‘ bmdawson@verizon.net ‘ www.bmdawson.com ‘ Furniture ‘ Antiques ‘ Collectibles ‘ Junque ‘ Reliable professionals ‘ Local References

NOTARY PUBLIC 7g

NOTARY SERVICES. Will travel. Rachel Schwartz, (310) 699-1464

ORGANIZING SERVICES 7h

CONFUSING MEDICAL BILLS? Let personal organizer put your insurance paperwork and medical records in order. Save money by letting me deal with insurance company. Perfect for year end accounting. Call Nicole, (310) 428-6037

ORGANIZING SERVICES 7h

CONFUSING MEDICAL BILLS? Let personal organizer put your insurance paperwork and medical records in order. Save money by letting me deal with insurance company. Perfect for year end accounting. Call Nicole, (310) 428-6037

MESSENGER/COURIER SERVICES 7n

MESSENGER & COURIER SERVICES (S. Cal.) ‘ Direct, same day or overnite, PU & Del. 24/7 guaranteed, on-time service. All major credit cards accepted. Santa Monica Express Inc. ‘ Since 1984 ‘ Tel: (310) 458-6000 www.smexpress.com

HOUSEKEEPERS 9a

PROFESSIONAL MAID SERVICES In Malibu! We make your home our business. Star sparkling cleaning services. In the community over 15 years. The best in house-keeping for the best price. Good references. Licensed. Call Bertha, (323) 754-6873 & cell (213) 393-1419, professionalmaidinmalibu@google.com

HOUSEKEEPER/BABYSITTING, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Live out. Speaks English, good references, 3 years experience, DL & good w/ newborns. Call (310) 721-5622 or (323) 455-0708, Jeanette M.

HOUSEKEEPERS AVAILABLE. References. We work as a team to clean your house. Many years experience. Please call Amanda or Ruben, (213) 481-2545 (h) or (213) 422-6746 (c), call anytime.

HOUSEKEEPER, 15-20 years experience. Excellent local references. Warm, reliable, hard-working, great with kids & pets! Please call Raquel at (213) 736-5362

HOUSEKEEPER OR BABYSITTER available Thursday and Saturday. Live out. Local Palisades & Santa Monica references. Own transportation. Call Marta, (213) 365-6609. Please leave a message.

FULL TIME HOUSEKEEPER. Available Monday-Saturday. 3 years experience, speaks English. Call Ester, (818) 523-4835

HOUSEKEEPER: References, many years experience, own car. Days available Monday-Friday. Please call Martha, (213) 675-4113 or (909) 232-0623

ELDER CARE/COMPANIONS 10a

GOOD COMPANY Senior Care. A premiere private duty home care agency. Provides in-home care and companionship to help people remain independent and happy at home. If you are a caring individual who would like to join our team, please call (323) 932-8700. joni@goodcopros.com. CAREGIVER. Responsible adult living in Pacific Palisades available for caregiver tasks. Call (949) 573-7247

GARDENING/LANDSCAPING 11

PALISADES GARDENING ‘ Full Gardening Service ‘ Sprinkler Install ‘ Tree Trim ‘ Sodding ‘ Sprays, non-toxic ‘ FREE AZALEA PLANT ‘ Cell,(310) 701-1613, (310) 568-0989

MOVING & HAULING 11b

HAULING. Local students will haul your stuff. References. (310) 922-8475

HONEST MAN SERVICES. All jobs, big or small. Moves & hauls it all. 14 foot truck. 20th year Westside. Delivery to 48 states. (310) 285-8688

HEALTH & BEAUTY CARE 12a

PALISADES PERSONAL TRAINER! I’m certified, fully insured & eager to help you become stronger, leaner & more energized. Holiday special: 50 minute sessions for $30. Contact Jennifer, (310) 403-9548

STEREO, TV, VCR SERVICES 13g

1 REMOTE CONTROL THAT WORKS! Is your entertainment system not entertaining you? We can tune up your system, bring it up to date, hide wires, mount TVs, install speakers, etc. We can even reprogram or replace your remote control so it is easy to use. Call us, we can help! Lic. #515929. Stanford Connect, (310) 829-0872

WINDOW WASHING 13h

THE WINDOWS OF OZ. Detailed interior/exterior glass & screen cleaning. High ladder work. 10% new customer discount. Next day service available. Free estimates. Lic. & bonded. Insured. (310) 926-7626

CATERING 14

HOLIDAY CHEF & EVENT MANAGER! Cordon Bleu Chef and 15 year veteran event manager wants to help you plan your holiday event! $60 per hour. Please call or email Danielle . . . (310) 691-0578 or daniellesamendez@gmail.com

PERSONAL SERVICES 14f

DRIVER WANTED. Dependable, careful driver wanted to take professor from Palisades home to UCLA and back 3x/week. Call Betsy at (213) 891-2880

ORGANIZER HOME AND OFFICE. There’s no place like home for the holidays’unless it’s a mess. Let me help you get organized. Call Char @ (310) 562-3372 or cbcoaching@gmail.com

PET SERVICES/PET SITTING 14g

PRIVATE DOG WALKER/housesitter, Palisades & Santa Monica. S.M. Canyon resident. Please call or email Sherry, (310) 383-7852, www.palisadesdogwalker.com

PUPPY HEAVEN ‘ TRAINING/WALKING ‘ Play groups and hikes. 30 years Palisades resident. References. Call (310) 454-0058 for a happy dog!

FITNESS INSTRUCTION 15a

HAVE FUN! GET FIT! NORDIC WALKING CLASSES. Certified Advanced Nordic walking instructor, Palisades resident teaches private/group classes in the Palisades. Weekends. (310) 266-4651

TUTORS 15e

INDIVIDUALIZED INSTRUCTION. Children & adults. 20+ years teaching/tutoring exper. MATH, GRAMMAR, ESSAY WRITING & STUDY SKILLS. Formerly Sp. Ed. teacher. Call Gail, (310) 313-2530

MS. SCIENCE TUTOR. Ph.D., Experienced, Palisades resident. Tutor All Ages In Your Home. Marie, (310) 888-7145

PROFESSIONAL TUTOR. Stanford graduate (BA and MA, Class of 2000). Available for all subjects and test prep (SAT & ISEE). In-home tutoring at great rates. Call Jonathan, (310) 560-9134

MATH & CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS: COLLEGE ESSAYS, SAT/SAT II/ACT/ISEE/HSPT MATH PREP. All math subjects thru calculus. Jr. high thru college level writing skills. Fun, caring, creative, individualized tutoring. Local office in Palisades Village. Call Jamie, (888) 459-6430

EXPERIENCED SPANISH TUTOR ‘ All grade levels ‘ Grammar ‘ Conversational ‘ SAT/AP ‘ Children, adults ‘ Great references. Noelle, (310) 273-3593, (310) 980-6071

SCIENCE & MATH TUTOR. All levels (elementary to college). Ph.D., MIT graduate, 30 years experience. Ed Kanegsberg, (310) 459-3614

TUTORING FOR GRADES 1-8 by a California credentialed teacher and the author of 14 educational books. Affordable prices. Call Linda, (310) 820-7580

GROZA LEARNING CENTER. Tutoring K-12, all subjects & reading. SAT, ISEE, HSPT, ACT, ERB, STAR. Caring, meticulous service. GrozaLearningCenter.com ‘ (310) 454-3731

MIDDLE SCHOOL MATH & SCIENCE teacher. Pomona College graduate. Has lived in Palisades for 8+ years. Has coached football and soccer. Willing to travel to your home. (310) 384-4507

SCIENCE & MATH SECRETS . . . expert teacher offering after school help for elementary, middle school, and high school. Loc: CoAmericaBuilding in BRENTWOOD 90049. M.A. Columbia University, Teachers College. Credentialed in NY AND CA. FREE PRACTICE TESTS! SAT/SAT II/BIO/CHEM/PHYSICS/MATH. Individual or group sessions (4 students max) available! Call now’space is going fast! (310) 295-8915. www.310Tutoring.com

ENGLISH TUTOR. Elementary, HS, college students. Specializing in writing skills, study habits. Will tutor all humanities and social sciences. 10 yrs. teaching experience. PALISADES resident. Northwestern, MA LCTS. Samantha, (626) 864-7444

HELP WITH THE HOMEWORK WARS! Very experienced, private tutor. Exeter/Yale Grad, three children in Pali Schools, leads students of all motivation levels to substantial gains in grades, test scores and overall interest in learning. College application essays, SAT prep, critical reading, essay writing, algebra, AP history, Spanish. Call Justin, (310) 801-1048

ENGLISH TUTOR. College, HS, MS. Writing, reading comprehension, study skills, test preparation. Experienced private school teacher, MA UCLA. Reasonable rate. Arthur, (310) 459-9100

MUSIC LESSONS & INSTRUCTION 15h

PIANO LESSONS. Kids: gain an academic edge! Adults: increase your brain plasticity! Have fun and learn to play with passion. Conservatory Grad/Music Therapist, 20+ years exp., ages 4-up, all levels. Karen, (310) 230-7804

PIANO LESSONS/INSTRUCTION for intermediate students. Classical Performance BM honors student UC Santa Barbara. Supportive/creative/engaging methods for pianistic excellence. Pacific Palisades, (805) 231-2958, gavingamboa@gmail.com

CONCRETE, MASONRY, POOLS 16c

MASONRY, CONCRETE & POOL CONTRACTOR ‘ 39 YEARS IN PACIFIC PALISADES ‘ New Construction & Remodels. Hardscapes, custom stone, stamped concrete, brick, driveways, retaining walls, BBQs, outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, foundations, drainage, pool & spas, water features. Excellent local refs. Lic #309844. Bonded, ins, work comp. MIKE HORUSICKY CONSTRUCTION, INC. (310) 454-4385 ‘ WWW.HORUSICKY.COM

CONSTRUCTION 16d

ALAN PINE, GENERAL CONTRACTOR ‘ New homes ‘ Remodeling ‘ Additions ‘ Kitchen & bath ‘ Planning/architectural services ‘ Insured ‘ Local refs. Lic. #469435. (310) 457-5655 or (818) 203-8881

CASALE CONSTRUCTION CO. LLC ‘ General Contractor Lic. #512443 ‘ Residential ‘ Commercial ‘ New Construction ‘ Additions ‘ Remodeling ‘ (866) 362-2573 (o), (323) 503-3049 (c) ‘ www.reemodeling.com

HGTV Design Team (former). HGTV Design Team. We are a full service construction/design team ready to remodel a room for you! Formally on the hit HGTV show, Rate My Space. We revive any room or outdoor space for you. With our inspired, affordable, licensed construction and design staff, we can bring your ideas to life. From simple affordable alterations to extensive overhauls and additions we are the right company for you!! Lic. #858904. Call (310) 877-5577 & (310) 877-5979. http://debonairrenovations.com/Home/Home.html

ELECTRICAL 16h

PALISADES ELECTRIC. ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR. All phases of electrical, new construction to service work. (310) 454-6994. Lic. #468437 Insured Professional Service

ELECTRICIAN HANDYMAN. Local service only. Non-lic. Please call (310) 454-6849 or (818) 317-8286

LICHWA ELECTRIC. Remodeling, rewiring, troubleshooting. Lighting: low voltage, energy safe, indoor, outdoor, landscape. Low voltage: telephone, Internet, CCTV, home theatre, audio/video. Non-lic. Refs. LichwaElectric@gmail.com, (310) 270-8596

BEST ELECTRICAL * Over 25 yrs experience, All phases of electrical. 24 hrs, 7 day service. (310) 621-3905. Lic. #695411

FENCES, DECKS 16j

THE FENCE MAN ‘ 18 years quality work ‘ Wood fences ‘ Decks ‘ Gates ‘ Chainlink & patio ‘ Wrought iron ‘ Lic. #663238, bonded. (818) 706-1996

INDEPENDENT SERVICE CARLOS FENCE: Wood & Picket Fences ‘ Chain Link ‘ Iron & Gates ‘ Deck & Patio Covers. Ask for Carlos, (310) 677-2737 or fax (310) 677-8650. Non-lic.

FLOOR CARE 16m

GREG GARBER’S HARDWOOD FLOORS SINCE 1979. Install, refinish. Fully insured. Local references (310) 230-4597 Lic. #455608

CENTURY HARDWOOD FLOOR ‘ Refinishing, Installation, Repairs. Lic. #813778. www.centurycustomhardwoodfloorinc.com ‘ centuryfloor@sbcglobal.net ‘ (800) 608-6007 ‘ (310) 276-6407

JEFF HRONEK, 40 YRS. RESIDENT. HARDWOOD FLOORS INC. ‘ Sanding & Refinishing ‘ Installations ‘ Pre-finished ‘ Unfinished ‘ Lic. #608606. Bonded, Insured, Workers Comp. www.hronekhardwoodfloors.com (310) 475-1414

HANDYMAN 16o

HANDYMAN ‘ HOOSHMAN ‘ Most known name in the Palisades. Since 1975. Member Chamber of Commerce. Non-Lic. Call for your free est. Local refs available. Hooshman, (310) 459-8009, 24 Hr.

LABOR OF LOVE carpentry, plumbing, tile, plaster, doors, windows, fencing & those special challenges. Work guaranteed. License #B767950. Ken at (310) 487-6464

LOCAL RESIDENT, LOCAL CLIENTELE. Make a list, call me. I specialize in repairing, replacing all those little nuisances. Not licensed; fully insured; always on time. 1 Call, 1 Guy: Marty, (310) 459-2692

DJ PRO SERVICES ‘ Carpentry, Handyman, Repairs. ALL PROJECTS CONSIDERED. See my work at: www.djproservices.com ‘ Non-lic. (c) (310) 907-6169, (h) (310) 454-4121

ALL AMERICAN HANDYMAN! Quick home/office repairs. Furniture assembly, plumbing, appliances, electric & fixtures. Emergency service available 24 hours. Local refs. Non-lic. Thomas, (310) 985-2928

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING 16p

SANTA MONICA HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING. INSTALLATION: New and old service and repairs. Lic. #324942 (310) 393-5686

PAINTING, PAPERHANGING 16r

PAUL HORST ‘ Interior & Exterior PAINTING ‘ 55 YEARS OF SERVICE ‘ Our reputation is your safeguard. License No. 186825 ‘ (310) 454-4630 ‘ Bonded & Insured

TILO MARTIN PAINTING. For A Professional Job Call (310) 230-0202. Refs. Lic. #715099

SQUIRE PAINTING CO. Interior and Exterior. License #405049. 30 years. Local Service. (310) 454-8266. www.squirepainting.com

ZARKO PRTINA PAINTING. Interior/Exterior. Serving Palisades/Malibu over 35 years. Lic. #637882. Call (310) 454-6604

A PACIFIC PAINTING. Residential, commercial, industrial. Interior/exterior. Drywall, plaster, stucco repair, pressure washing. Free estimates. Bonded & insured. Lic. #908913. ‘Since 1979.’ (310) 954-7170

ALL SEASONS PAINTING. Holiday specials ‘ Kitchen cabinets, garage doors, deck & fences. Interior/exterior painting specialist. ‘Green’ environmentally friendly paint upon request. Excellent referrals. Free estimate. Lic. #106150. Randy, (310) 678-7913

REMODELING 16v

KANAN CONSTRUCTION ‘ References. BONDED ‘ INSURED ‘ St. Lic. #554451 ‘ DANIEL J. KANAN, CONTRACTOR, (310) 451-3540 / (800) 585-4-DAN

COMPLETE CUSTOM CONSTRUCTION ‘ Kitchen+bath ‘ Additions ‘ Tile, carpentry, plumbing ‘ Quality work at reasonable rates guaranteed. Large & small projects welcomed. Lic. #751137. Call Michael Hoff Construction, (310) 774-9159

HELP WANTED 17

THE SKI CHANNEL & THE SURF CHANNEL located in the Palisades village have immediate openings for interns in programming, production & marketing. (310) 230-2050

MYSTERY SHOPPERS earn up to $150 per day. Undercover shoppers needed to judge retail and dine-in establishments. No experience required. Call (877) 648-1571

DEDICATED & TRUSTWORTHY personal assistant needed to handle personal & business errands. Should have good communication skills, both verbal & written. Send resumes to: recruitmentdept101@live.com

AUTOS 18b

1999 FORD EXPLORER SPORT. 86,000 miles. Power, CD, air, runs great. $3,500 OBO. (310) 434-1510

1999 VOLKSWAGEN WOLFSBURG. White, low mileage, 1 owner, excellent cond. Heat, A/C, CD adaptable radio w/ removable face. Excellent for new teen driver. Very reliable. $4,200 OBO. (310) 823-6380

GARAGE, ESTATE SALES 18d

SM CYN! WHOLE HOUSE! Moving sale! Great post-T’giving holiday gift ideas! Furn/furnishings/collectibles/linens/jewelry/books/CDs/DVDs/clothes/jewelry! Sports stuff! 434 Sycamore (W. Channel Rd to Mesa/first left). FRI.-SAT., Nov. 27-28; 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Photos/details: www.bmdawson.com

MULTI-FAMILY MOVING/ESTATE SALE! Furniture/antiques/clothes/toys & surfboards. Saturday, Nov. 28th, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. 15102 Albright.

Graves Honored at Chamber Breakfast

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November 25, 2009

Actor Peter Graves with his “Peter Graves Day” commemorative plaque, presented by the Pacific Palisades Chamber of Commerce last Friday.
Photo by Rich Schmitt, *Staff Photographer*

Just three weeks after having his star cemented into the sidewalk along Hollywood Boulevard, actor Peter Graves received a special honor from his hometown Chamber of Commerce last Friday at the Riviera Country Club. Honorary Mayor Gavin MacLeod, on behalf of the Chamber, announced that November 20, 2009, was Peter Graves Day here in Pacific Palisades, in honor of an actor who has starred on stage, television (‘Mission: Impossible’) and in the movies (‘Airplane!’) during his 60-year career. ’My mission here this morning is very possible,’ MacLeod said, who apologized that he couldn’t attend Graves’ Hollywood star ceremony. ‘I had a dentist appointment in Altadena. It sounds like a funny excuse, but it’s true.’ Presenting a handsome plaque to Graves, MacLeod said, ‘It’s not as big as your star in Hollywood, but this is given to you with a lot of love.’ An appreciative Graves, who was joined at the breakfast by his wife Joan, recalled how he first learned about Pacific Palisades as a fledgling stage actor in 1950, when he drove out for an audition for ‘My Sister Eileen’ at the New Horizon Theater on Via de la Paz (now the YMCA). ’I made the long trek out here and I discovered this little Shangri-La,’ Graves recalled. ‘I got a part in the play, and a few years later, when my work got a little steady, Joan and I moved here.’ The guest speaker for the Chamber’s annual general membership breakfast was Jeanie Buss, executive VP of the Los Angeles Lakers, who was Miss Palisades in 1979 when her family lived in Rustic Canyon. (See story, page 6.) In the audience were three other former Miss Palisades: Anne de Varennes (1972), Laurie Krantz (1978) and Jeanne Elfant Festa (1981).