Thursday, March 26 – Thursday, April 2

March 27, 2009

THURSDAY, MARCH 26

Chamber of Commerce mixer, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., hosted by Affinity Bank, 15310 Sunset. Public invited. Pacific Palisades Community Council meeting, 7 p.m. in the Palisades Branch Library community room, 861 Alma Real. Public invited. Robert Jameson discusses and signs ‘Keys to Joy-Filled Living,’ 7:30 p.m. at Village Books on Swarthmore. His book explores how to truly love yourself and have a healthy, long-term relationship.

FRIDAY, MARCH 27

Kids Pajama Storytime, featuring Palisadian Teresa Ann Power reading and signing her new book, ‘The ABC’s of Yoga for Kids,’ 6:30 p.m. at Village Books on Swarthmore. Members of the St. Matthew’s Chamber Orchestra will be joined by KUSC host Kimberlea Daggy, reciter, for a performance of William Walton’s satirical spoof ‘Facade,’ 8 p.m. at St. Matthew’s Church, 1031 Bienveneda Ave. Tickets ($25) at the door. Last weekend to catch PaliHi’s production of ‘Honk!,’ the musical comedy based on Hans Christian Andersen’s ‘The Ugly Duckling,’ tonight and Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m., in Mercer Hall on campus. For tickets (students, $10; adults, $15), e-mail palisadespublicity@gmail.com. (See review on page 12.)

SUNDAY, MARCH 29

Pacific Palisades playright and screeenwriter John Gay and his daughter Jennifer Gay Summers discuss and sign ‘Any Way I Can: 50 Years in Show Business,’ 3:30 p.m. at Village Books on Swarthmore.

TUESDAY, MARCH 31

Author Hank Rosenfeld discusses and signs ‘The Wicked Wit of the West,’ his entertaining book about the late Marx Brothers screenwriter Irving Brecher, who also punched up ‘The Wizard of Oz’ and created TV’s ‘The Life of Riley,’ 7:30 p.m. at Village Books on Swarthmore.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1

Baby and Toddler Storytime, a lap-sit mix of songs, finger plays, stories, and flannelboards for children under the age of 3 and their grown-ups, 10:15 a.m. sharp in the Palisades Branch Library community room, 861 Alma Real. Palisadian Kathy Jackson moderates a discussion of the Palisades Reads selection, ‘The Soloist: A Lost Dream, An Unlikely Friendship and the Redemptive Power of Music,’ by Los Angeles Times columnist Steve Lopez, 7:30 p.m. at Village Books. The public is invited. (See story, page 12.) Dr. Damon Raskin, a Pacific Palisades internist for 13 years, will talk about ‘Osteoporosis: Prevention and Treatment,’ 7 p.m. at Sunrise Senior Living, 15441 Sunset. Admission is free.

THURSDAY, APRIL 2

New York writer Timothy Mason reads and signs his comical suspense novel for preteens, ‘The Last Synapsid,’ 7:30 p.m. at Village Books on Swarthmore. Rob, 12, and his best friend Phoebe try to find out what’s been killing pets in their Colorado mountain town. What they find is The Last Synapsid, a squat dinosaur-like creature who claims he’s wandered into a time snag from his own era, 30 million years before the dinosaurs. Best for ages 8-12.

Delano, Giglio Named Mr. and Miss Palisades

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March 26, 2009

Palisades High junior Wyn Delano and sophomore Sabrina Giglio congratulate each other for being named the 2009 Mr. and Miss Palisades at last Wednesday's competition at Pierson Playhouse. — Palisades High junior Wyn Delano and sophomore Sabrina Giglio congratulate each other for being named the 2009 Mr. and Miss Palisades at last Wednesday’s competition at Pierson Playhouse.
Photo by Rich Schmitt, *Staff Photographer*

Wyn Delano and Sabrina Giglio, both students at Palisades Charter High School, earned the titles of Mr. and Miss Palisades last Wednesday night at Pierson Playhouse in the annual contest sponsored by the Palisades Chamber of Commerce. Delano and Giglio, who will each receive a $2,000 Cathie Wishnick Memorial Scholarship, will ride in the town’s Fourth of July parade and will represent the town’s youth at various Chamber-sponsored events in the coming year. ‘This is something that I have wanted since I was five years old,’ said Giglio, 15. ‘I have read the Palisadian-Post every year and thought that I want to be one of those girls,’ referring to the Miss Palisades winners. The teens were judged on character, talent, poise, presentation and communication skills. They each had to present an artistic talents whether it be singing or playing a musical instrument, then answer questions in an onstage interview with co-emcees Sam Lagana and Nicole Howard. Giglio impressed the judges with her flawless performance of ‘Unaccompanied Cello Suite No. 1 in G Major’ by Johann Sebastian Bach, while Delano wowed them with his dramatic singing of ‘The Impossible Dream’ from ‘Man of La Mancha.’ Delano, 16 and a junior at PaliHi, is an aspiring actor. He starred in his first musical ‘Oklahoma,’ at six years old and is currently performing in ‘The Secret Garden’ at the Morgan-Wixson Theater in Santa Monica. He decided to enter the contest at the urging of a friend. ‘It’s a wonderful honor to be selected out of this incredibly talented group to be the town’s representative,’ he said. Giglio, a sophomore at PaliHi, has played the cello for four years and hopes to become a professional musician. She has plans to attend a liberal arts school on the East Coast. Courtney Kelly, a Harvard-Westlake sophomore, and Jacob Correia, a Brentwood School sophomore, were named runners-up; each received $200. Kelly showcased her artwork (oil, pastels, watercolor, pencil and clay) in a slideshow presentation, while Correia (also a runner-up in the 2008 Mr. Palisades contest) played ‘Csardas’ by Vittorio Monti on his violin. Other contestants included Jackie Brody, Oaks Christian School sophomore; Samantha Elander, PaliHi sophomore; Sam Green, Crossroads junior; Micah Gordon, Windward School sophomore; and Julian Xavier Whatley, PaliHi senior. While teen contest officials tallied the judges’ scores, reigning Mr. Palisades Chris Alexakis entertained the audience with a slideshow of his activities throughout the year, while outgoing Miss Palisades Elena Loper sang ‘Let It Be’ by the Beatles. Mimi Vitale, who was Miss Palisades in 2000, also sizzled on stage in an elegant silver gown as she performed Celine Dion’s ‘My Heart Will Go On’ and ‘All That Jazz’ from the musical ‘Chicago.’ The judges were Gavin MacLeod, honorary mayor; Mona Golabek, concert pianist; Linda Vitale, vocalist; Marcie Gold, television producer; and Paola de Mari, board member of Italy-America Chamber of Commerce West. The event was organized by Carol Smolinisky (chairperson), Candida Piaggi, Ramis Sadrieh, Lauri McNevin, Thea White (who choreographed the opening number) and Arnie Wishnick. The following restaurants donated food for the reception that concluded the night’s festivities: Taste, Oak Room/Village Pantry, Mayberry’s, Tivoli Caf’, Kay ‘N’ Dave’s Cantinas and Taj Palace.

CLASSIFIED ADS FOR THE WEEK OF MARCH 26, 2009

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March 26, 2009

PLEASE NOTE: DUE TO NEW POSTAL REQUIREMENTS, THE CLASSIFIED DEADLINE IS NOW FRIDAY AT 11 A.M.

HOMES FOR SALE 1

EXCLUSIVE PRIVATE HOME, Poipu, Kauai, end of cul-de-sac. 1 blk from beach. Pool, separate ‘ohana, view of mtns over backyard pool. $2.35 million. (808) 634-7189

FURNISHED HOMES 2

PICTURE PERFECT LEASE, Huntington Palisades. Beautifully decorated 3 bd, 3 ba, LR w/ FP, FR w/ FP, FDR, den, lovely garden, pool. Furn or unfurn at $14,500/mo. Contact Dolly Neimann, (310) 230-3706

UNFURNISHED HOMES 2a

NEW REBATE OFFERED * Ranch style on 10,561 sq. ft. Tree-filled property, brick patio, deck off kit., LG LR, sep. DR, oak FLR, wood FRPL, 2 BD, 1 BA, w/ gardener. $3,600/mo. (310) 454-1575

RUSTIC CANYON CRAFTSMAN CHARMER with 3 bd, 3.5 ba, great room with river rock FP, & cathedral ceilings. Huge porch & large yard. $7,000/mo. Call Dolly at (310) 230-3706

BEAUTIFUL BEL AIR BAY CLUB TRACT, Pacific Palisades. Lovely garden home on private road. Easy walk to beach. 3 bedrm, great room, 2 fireplaces, 2 car garage w/ lots of storage. Many large trees, garden & fenced yard. Highly desirable, quiet neighborhood. Pets ok w/ deposit. $4,250/mo. Avail April 1st. (310) 455-7055 or (310) 383-8055 for appointments. lunasmom@verizon.net

QUIET CUL-DE-SAC LOCATION. Light & bright 4 BD, 2.5 BA home w/ updated kitchen, living rm w/ fireplace, dining area & private grassy yard. $5,000/mo. Call Jody Fine, (310) 230-3770

RUSTIC CANYON COTTAGE. Charming cottage consists of 2 BD, 2 BA in the main house. Separate office structure. Additional 1 bedroom/bath off of two-car garage. $6,500/mo. Jody Fine, (310) 230-3770

$4,950/MO. 3900 CASTLEROCK, two blocks to beach & Getty Villa. 2,136 sq.ft. 4+3+dine. Totally remodeled. All wood floors, new kitchen, private yard. (310) 309-7714

EL MEDIO BLUFFS. 3 BD, 2 BA, 1,700 sq.ft. home. Open & light on 6,000 sq.ft. lot. Nice yard, LVR with fireplace. Appliances, HW floors, washer/dryer, garage. Gardener incl. $4,500/mo. (310) 741-1138

BRENTWOOD CHARMING 5 BD, 2 story home, north of Sunset with balconies, sun deck, spas, & spectacular views. Fireplace & separate study. Remodeled. $5,500/mo. (310) 472-1869

CHARMING 2 BD, 1 BA, large backyard, refurbished kitchen, stove, refrigerator, microwave, washer/dryer. Hardwood floors, water & gardener included. Small pets ok. Close to village and schools. $3,000/mo. (310) 702-1758

SPECTACULAR OCEAN VIEW near Pali schools. 4 BDRM, 3 BA, LR & master BDRM w/ frpls. W/D, 2 car garage. Gardener incl. 1 yr lease min. $6,400/mo. Contact Debra, (310) 908-8390

UNFURNISHED APARTMENTS 2c

BEAUTIFUL 2 BD + 2 BA * $2,695/mo. Small pet ok with deposit. Quiet building, new carpet, marble floors, crown molding, gas fireplace & appliances. Walk to village and beach. With 1 month free rent. Call (310) 454-2024

REDUCED!!! $3,500/MO. Unique find in Mediterranean triplex. Large upper unit, 2 bd + bonus room, 1 bath. Plantation shutters, fireplace, ceiling fan, balcony, garden, garage, light & airy. 1 yr lease. No pets, N/S. (310) 804-3142

LARGE REMODELED STUDIO plus private patio, full kitchen, bath, lots of closets, pool, laundry room. Minutes to village & beach. One year lease. $1,400/mo. (310) 454-8837

PANORAMIC OCEAN VIEW GUEST HOUSE. 1 BR + LR, 2 bath. Private. Wood floors, laundry, nice patio, some furnishings available. Near old Getty. Listen to the surf. For 1 person only. No pets. $2,300/mo. (310) 459-1983

TOP FLOOR 1 BDRM OCEAN/HILLSIDE VIEWS, half block to beach. Off Sunset. Beautifully redone, new wood floors & granite. Pool, sec. gated parking. $1,895/mo. (310) 459-6369

STUDIO KITCHENETTE, FULL BATH, private entrance, private home. Walk to village. $850/mo. plus utilities. (310) 454-3883

CONDOS, TOWNHOMES FOR RENT 2d

GEM IN THE PALISADES, 2 bdrm, 2½ ba, townhouse, hdwd, tile, new carpet. Large roof deck, W/D, dishwasher. Parking. $3,350/mo. (310) 392-1757

THE PERFECT 2+2. Immaculate, like-new & gorgeous. Totally private & quiet! Spacious & sunny. Custom kitchen, W/D, AC. $2,900/mo. Call agent Pat Haight, (310) 454-1851

3 BED, 3 BATH corner unit. Ocean & mountain views, pools, tennis court, parking, gated. Pac Pal, Sunset/PCH. $3,950/mo. Includes utilities. Westside Leasing, (800) 551-1586

LOVELY 3 BDRM, 2½ BA, HIGHLANDS TOWNHOUSE. Upgraded, light, spacious, patio, W/D, 2 car garage, pool, tennis, & gym. Available April 1st. $3,850/mo. (310) 459-3264

WANTED TO RENT 3b

LOCAL EMPLOYED male seeks guesthouse. Quiet, local references. Non-smoker, no pets. Call Palisadian-Post, (310) 454-1321

OFFICE/STORE RENTALS 3c

PROFESSIONAL BUILDING in Pacific Palisades village for lease. Lovely and spacious suite available. Lease hold improvement allowance. 850 square feet conveniently located in the village. Please call Ness, (310) 230-6712 x105, for more details.

OFFICE SUBLEASE W/ OCEAN VIEW. Four offices available in Pacific Palisades, at the corner of Sunset & PCH, fabulous ocean views. Includes telephone system, internet access & utilities. Lease terms negotiable. Call Angela at (310) 566-1888

PALISADES OFFICE SUITES AVAILABLE in the heart of the Village including: 1) Last remaining single office suite at $1,600 per month and 2) Office suites ranging in size from 1,015 sf to 3,235 sf, all with large windows with great natural light. Amazing views of the Santa Monica mountains, private balconies and restrooms. Building amenities include high speed T1 internet access, elevator and secured, underground parking. CALL BRETT AT (310) 591-8789 or email brett@hp-cap.com

VACATION RENTALS 3e

FAMILY OF FOUR looking to rent furnished home in Palisades from July 1st thru Aug. 25th. Call Sandy, (310) 463-7132 or email: sandymetzler@yahoo.com

FOUR FULLY SELF-CONTAINED trailers for rent across from Will Rogers State Beach & about 2 miles from Santa Monica Pier. Two for $1,095/mo. and two for $995/mo. (310) 454-2515

LOST & FOUND 6a

FOUND: RING. Ring found Wednesday, March 11th, on Swarthmore. Please call to identify. (310) 880-2019

BOOKKEEPING/ACCOUNTING 7b

Quickbooks Gathering of Data for 2008 to prepare for your CPA. Personal or business bookkeeping, bank and investment account reconciliations, monthly reports, bill paying, staff and nursing care management/scheduling are available in the Palisades. Shirley, (310) 570-6085 or saekorn@aol.com

BOOKKEEPING & FINANCE services: prepare for taxes, pay bills, reconcile accounts, financial analysis/planning/budgeting/counseling. Computer expertise. Caring & thorough. (310) 218-6653, (310) 459-2066

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 * SET-UP, TUTORING, REPAIR, INTERNET. Problem-Free Computing, Guaranteed. Satisfying Clients Since 1992. If I Can’t Help, NO CHARGE! COMPUTER WORKS! 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 Moorefieldwww.thedetechtives.com

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 SERVICE • Excellent local references for 8 years. Recent Pitzer College graduate. Palisades resident. Satisfaction guaranteed. $50/hr. and $30/half-hr. FIRST HALF HOUR IS FREE! Call Matt: (310) 383-2471

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 • Garage Sale Specialist • (310) 454-0359 • bmdawson@verizon.net • www.bmdawson.com • Furniture • Antiques • Collectibles • Junque • Reliable professionals • Local References

CUSTOM FILM & VIDEO TRANSFER 7k

CONVERT VHS TAPES TO DVD! • Preserve your home videos forever! Excellent local references. Palisades resident. Quick and convenient. Call Matt: (310) 383-2471

SOLAR/WIND ENERGY 7l

SOLAR ENERGY with ALTERNATIVE ENGINEERING SOLAR. Go green, save 40% to 50%! Huge rebates and tax incentives! Call for free estimate or questions. Local Palisades contractor. Lic. #912279. (877) 898-1948. e-mail: sales@alternativeengineering.net

MISCELLANEOUS 7n

BEEN TO COURT? Received a judgment? I can assist. Locate someone? I can assist. Provide employment screening & background checks as well. Murphy Investigative Services. Licensed PI firm. Call (213) 804-8484

NANNIES/BABYSITTERS 8a

NANNY: EXPERIENCED, RESPONSIBLE. Excellent local references. Full time. Available Monday through Friday. Live out. Call Rosie, (323) 234-3002

NANNY LOOKING FOR GREAT FAMILY * Nanny looking for morning work. Childcare, light housekeeping, have own transportation, great refs. Please call Karla at (323) 252-0881

HOUSEKEEPERS 9a

“PROFESSIONAL SERVICES.” We make your home our business. Star sparkling cleaning services. In the community over 15 years. The best in housekeeping for the best price. Good references. Call Bertha, (323) 754-6873 & cell (213) 393-1419

HOUSEKEEPER/BABYSITTER/ELDER CARE, day or night, available Monday-Sunday. Own transportation, excellent references. Call Maria Patricia, (310) 948-9637

EUROPEAN CLEANING SERVICE. Reliable, local references. Experienced. Own supplies. Call today. (818) 324-9154

NANNY * HOUSEKEEPER * looking for work. Excellent refs. Many years experience. Avail any day. Live-in, live-out. Own transportation. Call Lupe, (323) 583-3202 or (714) 992-0679

WONDERFUL HOUSEKEEPER & BABYSITTER! 10 yrs experience. Available anytime. Live-out. Great with pets. Excellent references. Call Maria, (213) 739-8928

HOUSEKEEPING OR BABYSITTING Monday to Friday. I have good local references. I drive my own car. Call Connee, (c) (323) 377-5138 or (h) (323) 735-5725. Leave a msg.

HOUSEKEEPER OR BABYSITTER AVAILABLE Monday-Friday. 5 years experience. Reliable. Excellent references. Frances, (323) 251-0258 or (310) 764-4781

HOUSEKEEPER/BABYSITTER/ELDERCARE ** Day or night. Avail. Mon.-Sun. Responsible, experienced, good refs. Spanish & English speaking. Live-in or live-out. Silvia, (323) 445-3124

EXPERIENCED HOUSEKEEPER available for work one day a week or five days a week! Good refs. Own car. 25 years experience, good English. Please call Aida, (323) 735-7603

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

PERSONAL ASSISTANT/CARE GIVER. Mature, reliable, educated lady with experience & local refs. Available with a car. Flexible. Please leave me a message. (310) 383-6593

NURSING CARE 10b

YOUR EXTRA SPECIAL PALISADES-BASED STAFFING AGENCY. Registered nurses, LVNs, CNAs & caregivers. Best rates! Free smiles!! Call Jim, (310) 573-9436 (ofc), (310) 795-5023 (c). yourextraspecial.com

GARDENING/LANDSCAPING 11

GARDENING MAINTENANCE • Irrigation • Clean-up • New lawns • Hillside cleaning • Planting • Detailing • Free Estimates • Call Alex (owner), (323) 251-9914

SALOMON’S GARDENING * Maintenance & cleanup. Clean hillsides, cut grass, landscape, trim trees, sprinklers, plant. 1st mo. 10% off. Free est. Good refs. Many years exp. (323) 252-0112

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

MASSAGE THERAPY 12b

SWEDISH MASSAGE BY A SWEDE! Private and business. Outcalls only. $100/hour. Non-sexual! Swedishimage@gmail.com (323) 360-4231

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. Licensed & bonded. (310) 926-7626

HAVING A PARTY? SELLING some real estate, or just want to do some spring cleaning? Get those WINDOWS SHINING by calling No Streak Window cleaning, where we offer fast friendly quality service you can count on! For a free estimate, call Marcus, (323) 632-7207. Lic. #122194-49, insured.

CATERING 14

HOLIDAY EVENT PLANNER & CULINARY STUDENT. Le Cordon Bleu student and event planner to help with your holiday prep, cooking, serving, menus & all event details. 10+ years experience. $40/hr. Please call Danielle, (310) 691-0578. daniellesamendez@gmail.com

HOUSESITTING 14b

SEEKING PALISADES HOUSESITTING. Mature 50+ male business and legal professional seeks housesitting opportunity in the Palisades. Non-drinker. Non-smoker. Would prefer a longer term arrangement. Open to assisting with monthly expenses. Please call Cary: (310) 993-1683

PERSONAL SERVICES 14f

PALISADIAN, MATURE & RESPONSIBLE LADY offers driving service for shopping, beauty parlor, doctor appointments, errands, etc. Perfect driving record. Flexible hours. Please call (310) 741-8422

PET SERVICES/PET SITTING 14g

PRIVATE DOG WALKER/runner/housesitter, Palisades & Santa Monica. S.M. Canyon resident. Please call or email Sherry, (310) 383-7852, email: Sherry230@verizon.net

PERSONAL TOUCH. DOG WALKING/OUTINGS/SITTING SERVICE. Cats, too! 30 yr. Pali resident. Very reliable. Refs available. If you want special care for your pet, pls call Jacqui, (310) 454-0104, cell (310) 691-9893

MISCELLANEOUS 14k

EXPERT ALTERATIONS BY FILEMON (of Emerson LaMay). Custom made dresses: weddings, proms, costumes. Men’s & women’s clothing. Free pick-up & delivery. Dry clean also. (818) 419-8986

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

SCHOOLS, INSTRUCTION 15d

PIANO TEACHER. Specializing in children. Learn chords—all ages. Your home or my studio. Pepperdine & UCLA grad. Call (310) 453-1064

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

CLEARLY MATH & MORE! Specializing in math & now offering chemistry & physics! Elementary thru college level. Test prep, algebra, trig, geom, calculus. Fun, caring, creative, individualized tutoring. Math anxiety. Call Jamie, (310) 459-4722

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

K-4 ELEMENTARY TUTOR. CA & AZ Cert. Elem Teacher • Qualified in all subjects but specialize in reading skills K-4 incl phonics, reading comprehension, spelling & writing • Will strengthen learning while building academic confidence & self-esteem • Motivational, creative, positive relationships w/ students • Will come to your home. Caroline, (424) 228-5744 or email cmiller16@gmail.com

SPANISH TUTORING. South American teacher, university degree, all levels: college and beyond. Learn, improve, get confident for studies, work & traveling. Call (310) 741-8422

SPANISH TUTOR, CERTIFIED TEACHER for all levels. Has finest education, qualifications, 21 yrs exper. Palisades resident, great references, amazing system, Colombian native speaker. Marietta, (310) 459-8180

MATH & SCIENCE TUTOR. Middle school-college level. BS LAUSD credentialed high school teacher. Test Prep. Flexible hours. AVAILABLE to help NOW! Seth Freedman, (310) 909-3049

CARPENTRY 16a

FINE WOODWORKING: Carpentry of any kind. Bathrooms, kitchens, doors, cabinets, decks & gates. State lic. #822541. No project too small. References available. Reasonable prices. Contact: Ed Winterhalter at (310) 213-3101

CONCRETE, MASONRY, POOLS 16c

MASONRY, CONCRETE & POOL CONTRACTOR. 39 YEARS IN PACIFIC PALISADES. Custom masonry & concrete, stamped, driveways, pools, decks, patios, foundations, fireplace, outdoor kitchens, drainage control, custom stone, block & brick, tile. Excellent local refs. Lic. #309844. Bonded/ins./workmen’s comp. Family owned & operated. MIKE HORUSICKY CONSTRUCTION, INC. (310) 454-4385 • www.horusicky.com

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

ELECTRICIAN: remodeling, rewiring, troubleshooting. Lighting: low voltage, energy safe, indoor, outdoor, landscape. Low voltage: telephone, Internet, CCTV, Home Theatre, Audio/Video. Non-lic. Refs. LichwaConstruction@gmail.com (310) 270-8596

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.

DECK REPAIR, SEALING & STAINING. Local resident, local clientele. 1 day service. (See ad under handyman.) Marty, (310) 459-2692

FINISH CARPENTRY 16k

CUSTOM FINISH CARPENTRY * Cabinets * Doors * Columns * Crown * Base * Wainscoting * Windows * Mantles & more . . . New construction & remodels. Contractors & homeowners welcome. Call John @ (818) 312-3716. Licensed (#886995) and bonded.

JOLYON COLLIER • CUSTOM FINISH CRAFTSMANSHIP • Specialty Construction • JolyonCollier.com • Non-lic. • (323) 493-3549

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. Lic. #560299. 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

HANDYMAN SERVING PALISADIANS for 14 years. Polite & on time. No job too small. Refs available. Non-lic. Ready for winter? (310) 454-4121 or cell, (310) 907-6169. djproservices@yahoo.com

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. 25 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

PAINTER, SMALL JOBS PREFERRED. Interiors only. 20 years experience. References available. Very reasonable rates. Excellent craftsmanship. Non-lic. Tim, (310) 433-9610

JAN MASLER PAINTING CO. Interior/exterior, custom finishes, 20 yrs experience. Lic. #826711. Bonded. Insured. (818) 269-7744. “Taking pride in our work.”

ALL SEASONS PAINTING: Spring clean-up specials. Kitchen cabinets • Decks • Garage doors • No job too small. Interior/exterior painting. Free estimates. Call Randy, (310) 678-7913. Lic. #106150

HANDYMAN SERVING PALISADIANS for 14 years. Polite & on time. No job too small. Refs available. Non-lic. Ready for winter? (310) 454-4121 or cell, (310) 907-6169. djproservices@yahoo.com

REMODELING 16v

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

LABOR OF LOVE HOME REPAIR & REMODEL. Kitchens, bathrooms, cabinetry, tile, doors, windows, decks, etc. Work guar. Ken Bass, General Contractor. Lic. #B767950. (310) 487-6464

COMPLETE CUSTOM CONSTRUCTION • New/Spec Homes • Kit+bath remodeling • Additions • Quality work at reasonable rates guaranteed. Large & small projects welcomed. Lic. #751137. Call Michael Hoff Construction, (310) 710-3199

HELP WANTED 17

RECEPTIONIST / PR / ADMIN. Exclusive practice in Pacific Palisades. Exceptional opportunity. Please call (310) 454-0317

PART-TIME NANNY NEEDED: Weekends & some after-school pick-up/care. Must have car w/ clean record & good refs. $15/hr. (10-15 hrs wk.) Call Sue, (310) 454-5450

AUTOS 18b

2007 TOYOTA CAMRY HYBRID. 16,368 miles. Fully loaded. No accidents. Carfax available. $24,595. Original owner. Call (310) 916-3479

1999 CAMRY LE Sedan, automatic, fully loaded, gold, low mileage, one owner. Perfect condition inside & out. Reliable gem. $7,500. Office phone: (310) 454-3552

GARAGE, ESTATE SALES 18d

MOVING SALE! 910 Embury, Sunday, March 29th, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Down sofa w/ 3 slip covers, glide rocker, wool hand hooked rug, mattress, fire screen, Childlife play system. No early birds.

BIG GARAGE SALE. 14845 Sunset @ Drummond. Clothes, kids stuff, furniture, electronics. Saturday, March 28th, 8 a.m. until 12 p.m.

GARAGE SALE! Chairs, rugs, books, bookshelves, lamps, baby equipment, beds, couches, pictures, tables, cameras, DVDs, jewelry, clothes & more! SATURDAY, March 28, 7-10 a.m. 16865 Charmel Lane, PP, 90272

WANTED TO BUY 19

WANTED: Old tube guitar amplifiers, working or not. ‘50s, ‘60s, etc. Tommy, (310) 895-5057 • profeti2001@yahoo.com

CAR WANTED: Great running and clean interior/exterior condition. Small, safe car with airbags for teen daughter. 10-15 yrs old, ok. Low price. Will pay cash. Contact: (310) 573-2004 or varelae@aol.com

Work in Progress: Young Photographer Takes Aim

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March 26, 2009

“Just Hit Pause,” a scene on Pacific Palisades bluffs before a brush fire spread.

“My Armor,” self-portrait by Robert Larson

Pacific Palisades resident Robert Larson explores the lonely man in his first solo exhibition, now on display through April at Mayberry restaurant on Swarthmore. In this body of work, ‘Away From Me,’ a common theme prevails: one lonely man against ‘a somewhat epic backdrop,’ Larson explains. One of the images was photographed on the Palisades bluffs. The other images were taken in Africa, Europe and Asia. Larson, 23, grew up in the Palisades and attended Calvary Christian School. His life, his ambitions, his dreams are best explored in his own words. ”LIBBY MOTIKA, Senior Editor ’I was born in Dallas, Texas, to a selfless woman named Melissa. A few days later, I was in Los Angeles, beginning the rest of this life with my new adopted mom, dad, and big sister. I spent much of my childhood in the care of my maternal grandparents and attended Calvary Christian for 11 years. My grandfather taught me how to shoot a gun when I was 5, and I grew up dreaming that I’d one day be a great sniper like Carlos Hathcock. When I was 19, I gave up that dream, and during a very empty and aimless period of my life I took a basic photography course at Santa Monica College. I felt an internal click (excuse the pun) deep within me. I started to constantly ditch class to go take pictures, and so it began. A year later, I went to Australia on my first trip abroad (Mexico doesn’t count for Southern Californians) and fell in love with collecting experiences. Since then I have traveled as much as I can and will continue to do so. More often than not, my only companion on these trips has been a camera. I still live in the Palisades and am currently attending the Julia Dean Photo Workshops as a full-time student in an attempt to erase my bad habits. I am a photographer and a writer. Mainly, though, I am a work in progress. Larson’s work is also included in a group show, ‘Dirty Pretty, Thirteen Los Angeles Photographers’ on display through May 22 at The Julia Dean Gallery, 801 Ocean Front Walk, Studio 8, in Venice. The photographers were challenged to explore the idea of beauty and filth in a city obsessed with those concepts. Contact: (310) 392-0909; www.juliadean.com.

Brake for ‘Honk!’ at PaliHi

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March 26, 2009

Theater Review

A scene from PaliHi’s spring musical production of “Honk!,” featuring Mountain Glover as Ugly.
Photo by Rich Schmitt, *Staff Photographer*

‘Honk!’ if you’ve heard this one before: an ugly little bird with a persecution complex strays from home and embarks on a misadventure to return to his mother. Across his odyssey, he learns that being different isn’t so bad. That’s the premise of ‘Honk!,’ the musical-comedy playing at Palisades Charter High. Based on Hans Christian Andersen’s ‘The Ugly Duckling,’ with music and lyrics by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe, the spring musical opened last Friday at Mercer Hall, 15777 Bowdoin St. This production, directed by Lisa Kraus, stars Mountain Glover as Ugly, Elizabeth Rich as Ida, and Daniel Rasch as Cat. ‘Honk!’ is a family-friendly, Technicolor affair, with some Busby Berkeley numbers and a Pixar feature’s over-the-top comic energy. The song-and-dance routines are when ‘Honk!’ fires on all cylinders. Acting-wise, ‘Honk!”s strongest players come from the cat contingent. Mia Canter inhabits her role as Queenie, milking her role for comedic value, down to the sassy lilt in her voice channeling Mae West. Also chewing much scenery: Rasch, a transfer student from Crossroads making a strong Pali debut as the piece’s wily villain. Felines aside, Ryan Steinberg (Drake) has the strongest feel for the stage, projecting to the back and singing showtunes the Great White Way way. In the singing department, Rich shines brightest as worried mama Ida. ‘Every tear a mother cries is a dream that’s washed away,’ Rich sings confidently in a sweeping pop ballad akin to those populating soundtracks of ’90s Disney animated features. As all-around performers, freshman Alana Best lives up to her surname. Her comedic Bullfrog steals the show. On opening night, she overcame microphone problems to deliver one of ‘Honk!”s best-received performances, from the hookiest tune, ‘Warts and All’ (‘Even some potatoes has got nice eyes,’ she belts) to a string of vaudevillian frog puns. Diana Kim makes the most of her straight role as Penny, an empathetic swan who becomes Clarice the Doe to Ugly’s Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Her acting and singing is pitch-perfect. Some of the acting and singing comes off wobbly. Star Glover is likeable, but could use some polish in both departments. His singing burns brightest in his duet with Kim in ‘Transformation.’ As ‘Honk!’ is democratic, lead character Ugly does not dominate the story, becoming the catalyst to introduce a cavalcade of eccentric characters in ‘Wizard of Oz’ fashion. ‘Honk!”s live orchestra can be a double-edged sword. The incidental music alternately gooses the energy and steps on actors’ lines. Some ‘invisible people’ must be singled out for their outstanding contributions. Lexi Rubaum, Mary Hobbs, Maddie Packer, Alessandra Varsano, Sean Pinto, Steven Meiers and Molly Binder produced the eye-catching, stylized farm setting, painting the cornfields three times over to yield the right effect, stretching sheets of blue fabric to create a lake. Lights techies Danny Greenberg and James Hale beautifully illuminate the performances and work the sky’s morphing hues. Have no fear, ‘Honk!’ does not feature high-schoolers in animal costumes. The clever wardrobe (Katie Lantz, Lorin Doctor, Pasha Ayazi) is symbolic, such as the barnstormer goggles/leather jackets worn by ‘geese’ during the winning number ‘We’re Off,’ which features a kazoo chorus during the bridge. Another visual and choreographic highlight: ‘The Blizzard’ ballet number. Fun and feather-light, ‘Honk!’ offers a massive self-esteem boost for all you freaks and misfits out there. ‘Honk!’ plays on Friday, March 27 and Saturday, March 28, 7 p.m., with a matinee March 28, 2 p.m. Tickets: students, $10; adults, $15. For information, email palisadespublicity@gmail.com

Palisades Readers to Discuss ‘The Soloist’ April 1 at Village Books

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March 26, 2009

Pacific Palisades has joined the ‘community reads’ arena with Steve Lopez’s ‘The Soloist’ as the first selection. The first of several events is a book discussion on Wednesday, April 1 at 7:30 p.m. at Village Books on Swarthmore. ’The Soloist,’ a work of nonfiction which originally ran as a series of columns in the Los Angeles Times, chronicles Lopez’s ultimate friendship with Nathaniel Ayers, a homeless man with an extraordinary musical gift. His first encounter with Ayers was on Skid Row, where the African American, accompanied by his violin with two strings, lost his ability to function following a mental breakdown. Thirty years earlier, Ayers had been a promising classical bass student at Juilliard. When Lopez finds him on the streets of downtown, he sees glimmers of Ayers’ brilliance and wants to help him, trying to secure lodging for him, reconnecting him with his family, and arranging for him to play and meet a former Juilliard classmate at Disney Hall. As with so many attempts to ‘do good,’ Lopez learns that the road is bumpy and, with every tiny success, there are disappointments. The discussion at Village Books, facilitated by Dr. Kathleen Jackson, will not only focus on Lopez’s story of redemption and wisdom, but also include a discussion of homelessness. A second book discussion will take place on Monday, April 6, 10:30 a.m. at the Palisades Branch Library, 861 Alma Real. R.S.V.P.: info@palisadescares.org or 310-459-1614 On April 7 at 9 p.m., jazz musicians Phillip Golub (on keyboard) and Adam Goldman (on bass) will perform at Paolo’s Ristorante at 1515 Palisades Dr. Both performers participate in the Colburn School Jazz Workshop. Golub attended Marquez Charter School and won the prestigious Spotlight Award from the Music Center. For dinner reservations, call 310-454-8889. Toiletries and clean socks will be collected for the homeless at all events. For more information and reservations for the reading events, call 310-459-1614 or visit info@palisadescares.org

Theatre Palisades’ ‘Cuckoo’s Nest’ Takes Flight April 3 at Pierson Playhouse

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March 26, 2009

Theatre Palisades presents the 2001 Off Broadway Tony Award winner ‘One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest’ from April 3 through May 10 at Pierson Playhouse, 941 Temescal Canyon Rd. Adapted by Dale Wasserman from Ken Kesey’s novel, ‘Cuckoo’s Nest’ involves inmates of a psychiatric hospital who are victimized by cold, castrating Nurse Ratched (Cindy Dellinger). Into their world blows larger-than-life rebel Randle Patrick McMurphy (Rico Simonini), a free spirit who challenges the establishment and everything Nurse Ratched represents. These two forces of nature battle one another with hilarious, shocking and tragic results. This powerful, effective modern classic continues to challenge, shock and move audiences. The novel was famously adapted by Milos Forman as a 1975 movie, which starred Jack Nicholson and Louise Fletcher as McMurphy and Ratched, respectively. It became the first film since ‘It Happened One Night’ in 1934 to win Academy Awards for all five major categories, including Best Picture. Directed by Sherry Coon and produced by Coon and Dellinger, the Theater Palisades production of ‘Cuckoo’s Nest’ features Palisadian George Lissandrello and returning actors Matthew Artson, David Kunzle, Bud Sabatino and Kevin Olsen. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. For tickets ($14-$18), call 310-454-1970 or visit www.theatrepalisades.org. Free parking available.

City Seeks Stormwater Diversion in Los Liones

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March 26, 2009

The city has applied for a grant to divert stormwater runoff into this dry streambed in Los Liones Gateway Park, just north of Sunset between Castellammare and Paseo Miramar.
Photo by Rich Schmitt, *Staff Photographer*

The L.A. Department of Public Works has applied for a grant from the State Water Resources Control Board to divert stormwater runoff from a storm drain at the top of Los Liones Drive into a dry streambed that runs through Los Liones Gateway Park. The project is one of many planned citywide to prevent polluted water from reaching local beaches, said Michelle Vargas, spokeswoman for the Department of Public Works. Currently, the runoff from the 800-acre watershed of Los Liones Canyon flows into the storm drain located just below the Los Liones trailhead. The eight-foot-high drain runs underneath Los Liones Drive and Sunset, emptying into the ocean just south of Gladstone’s Restaurant. The plan is to divert stormwater into the half-mile streambed that runs from the Los Liones trailhead (which connects to Topanga State Park) to a catch basin at Sunset Boulevard near Fire Station 23. When California State Parks engineered the creek about 10 years ago, the state had plans to divert some of the water from the city’s stormwater drain to the creek to create a riparian zone. ‘We haven’t had the funding, but it has been our goal,’ State Parks Information Officer Sheryl Watson said. The project conveniently fit into the city’s efforts to prevent stormwater from reaching beaches, Vargas said. The runoff mainly comes from parkland ‘that is not terribly polluted, but does get some pollutants,’ she said. In February and early March, the stretch of Will Rogers State Beach at Sunset near Gladstone’s received an F rating in wet weather, according to Heal the Bay. Last year, the annual grade for the beach was a B in wet weather. By bringing the stormwater into the Los Liones creek, Vargas explained that it will be exposed to sunlight and a natural cleaning process will occur. In addition, less water will reach the beach because it will filter into the porous creek bed. The plans have not been finalized for how the water will be diverted, Vargas said. The objective is to shunt all, or at least the majority, of the water to the creek. ‘A hydrology feasibility study still needs to be done, and a lot can change,’ Watson said. ‘The idea of diverting water into the creek is still preliminary and there are a lot of decisions to be made. The first thing that needs to happen is that funding needs to be made available. Then, we can begin to talk about more specific possibilities.’ Public Works is asking for $800,000 to $1 million from the State Water Resources Control Board for the project. The grant funding would come from Proposition 84, which was passed in 2006 and authorized the issuance of $90 million in bonds for water-quality projects. However, legislators have temporarily frozen the bonds because of the state’s projected budget shortfall of $42 billion. If Public Works is unable to secure the grant, ‘We will explore options to push this project through,’ Vargas said. Pacific Palisades resident Randy Young, who helped spearhead the effort to create Los Liones Gateway Park, is excited because the addition of water will draw more wildlife and provide nutrients to the approximate 3,000 native species planted by State Parks and local volunteers. Ten years ago, State Parks received a $350,000 grant from the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) to create the park, which includes an amphitheater, picnic areas, parking lots, hiking trails and a restroom. Young believes that once water is in the creek, the park will be a more pleasant place to visit. There will be a series of water cascades at the bottom of the streambed near Station 23. The Pacific Palisades Community Council and the Santa Monica Canyon Civic Association have sent letters encouraging the State Water Resources Control Board to fully fund the project. ‘We support this project because it will divert questionable stormwater and help the city meet its bacterial pollution mandates,’ said George Wolfberg, president of the Santa Monica Canyon Civic Association. In addition to shunting water to the creek, State Parks hopes to further improve Los Liones Park. The department plans to spend $250,000 (a mix of Caltrans grant money and State Parks’ Major Capital Outlay funding) to replace the chain-link fence at the trailhead entrance near the Getty Villa Service Road with a wrought-iron one, add another restroom and make the trails handicapped-accessible. ‘That work has already begun, but it had to be put on hold because of the bond freeze,’ Watson said, adding that State Parks’ funding is through bonds. ‘Once the funds become available, the work should be completed in 11 months.’ For more information about the plan to divert stormwater to the creek, call the city’s Stormwater Pollution Prevention Team at (213) 978-0333 or visit the Web site at lastormwater.org.

Hosting Pali Blues Players: A Win-Win Deal

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March 26, 2009

Two Pali Blues soccer players - Rosie Tantillo (far left) and Sasha Andrews (far right) - lived so successfully with the Kornfeinds last year that they were included in the family's Christmas card. Clockwise in the center are Meredith, 16, Molly, 14, Maggie, 6, and Lindsay 11. — Two Pali Blues soccer players – Rosie Tantillo (far left) and Sasha Andrews (far right) – lived so successfully with the Kornfeinds last year that they were included in the family’s Christmas card. Clockwise in the center are Meredith, 16, Molly, 14, Maggie, 6, and Lindsay 11.

Last year, when the plea went out for Pacific Palisades residents to open their homes for Pali Blues women soccer players, most of whom are in college and receive zero-dollar amateur contracts, Gina Kornfeind e-mailed Kenzo Bergeron, the team’s director of operations: ‘If you ever need a place for a player, let me know.’ The Blues, who played their first season last year as a member of the new 41-team, nationwide W-League, will once again practice on the Palisades High field and play their home games there, starting May 9. Kornfeind, the mother of four girls (Meredith, 16, Molly, 14, Lindsay, 11, and Maggie, 6), forgot to tell her husband Fred, a psychologist at the Veterans Administration, about the e-mail, but within a week she heard from Bergeron that he indeed had a player, Jill Oakes, who needed a room from early May through early August. The Kornfeind girls were excited. They had seen Oakes play at UCLA and they knew she was dating Lakers guard Jordan Farmer. What father could say no to the prospect of the possibility of housing a sports celebrity, as well as meeting a second one? He agreed. Alas, Oakes called Kornfeind back and told her that she was moving in with her boyfriend, but that she had two friends who needed a place to stay: Rosie Tantillo, a USC graduate and Sasha Andrews, a University of Nebraska graduate. The family had only one guest room, but Kornfeind, who works part-time as a social worker and a bereavement counselor, agreed to meet both women. ’I already knew Tantillo, who had worked out with my daughter’s club team,’ said Kornfeind, who has volunteered for several years as an AYSO commissioner. After visiting with the two players in the family’s kitchen in the Marquez area, Kornfeind offered them both a place to stay’if they wanted it. One girl could have the guest room, the other a space in the family’s unfinished basement. During their ‘interview,’ Kornfeind discussed expectations, which she said were minimal, because she felt that taking players in was a kind of ministry that helped the community by supporting a professional sport and exceptional women whom youth could emulate. ‘I expected that since they were grown women, they would be using our home as more of a boarding house,’ Kornfeind told the Palisadian-Post. Although Andrews had been living unsuccessfully with a family in Brentwood and Tantillo was sleeping on a sofa at the home of Blues head coach Charlie Naimo, Kornfeind was surprised’but pleased’when they both said ‘yes’ to her offer and moved immediately into the family’s sparse living quarters. ‘It turned out to be the most unbelievable, rich, exciting experience,’ Kornfeind said. ‘It was like having two new daughters. Every day after school, my younger daughters would come home and ask if Rosie and Sasha were there.’ Kornfeind said that even though she had no expectations, the soccer players proved to be helpful. They drove her girls places such as the orthodontist and soccer practices, helped with dinner, served as confidantes for the older daughters, and were inspirations for how hard one has to work at a sport to reach the next level. ’My kids learned that if you want to be that good, you have to do more than practice two times a week,’ Kornfeind said. Tantillo and Andrews tried out for the inaugural women pro soccer teams, which debut this week, but weren’t chosen. ‘It was good for my daughters to see them deal with disappointment,’ Kornfeind said. ‘They [the players] had a sad day or two and then went for a run down to the pier and back.’ Meanwhile last year, Tantillo and Andrews attended various Kornfeind soccer games games and brought other Pali Blues players to cheer them on. Tantillo told Meredith, who plays for PaliHi, ‘Charlie loves that style of play, and you could play for the Blues someday.’ Kornfeind said it was a real confidence booster for her daughter, who went on to make first team All-Western League. Unlike most W-League players, who stayed with families and moved out when the season ended in August, the two players are still living here, but will soon move out: Tantillo to Buffalo and Andrews to Indiana to join new soccer teams for the upcoming season. ’We’re really sad they’re leaving’it’s going to be hard,’ Kornfeind said. ‘They’ve become such a part of our family. As much as we gave them, we got back more.’ Her husband, whose experience had to be akin to living in a sorority house, must agree, because he told his wife: ‘If they leave, I think we should take in another player.’ Host families are needed immediately for about a dozen players. Please contact Jason Lemire at (310) 264-4649. Visit: www.bluessoccerclub.com

Pali Pool Construction Begins; Budget Is Now $4.2 Million

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March 26, 2009

Construction was scheduled to begin this week on the much-anticipated Maggie Gilbert Aquatic Center at Palisades Charter High School, and students and community members should be able to dive in by early 2010. The aquatic center, with a 12-lane competitive pool and adjacent two-lane pool, is the vision of 90-year-old English teacher Rose Gilbert, who has donated $2 million toward construction costs. The center, located at the corner of Temescal Canyon Road and Bowdoin Street, will be named after her late daughter and swimmer, Maggie Gilbert. The Division of the State Architect reviewed the plans and gave the school the go-ahead about three weeks ago, enabling the board of directors to hire Sarlan Builders in Beverly Hills to construct the pool for $3.85 million. The total cost of the project (which includes expenditures such as permits, inspection and design plans) is projected to be $4.2 million. ’The scope of the project expanded somewhat in the final set of plans and the cost of some of the materials increased since last summer, which is why the total project budget has increased,’ according to Executive Director Amy Dresser-Held. For one, there were some land-stability issues. Because the entire campus was built on fill, a concrete slab with steel rebar will have to be installed under the pool to provide stability. ’The contractor is working to mobilize his crew and address issues like installing gates in the temporary fence,’ prior to breaking asphalt on the outdoor basketball courts, Dresser-Held said Tuesday. The school has raised $2.9 million thus far, including $150,000 from the Palisades High Booster Club as the second-largest donation thus far. Other important contributions have been received from American Legion Post 283 ($50,000); Kwok’s Shell Station at the corner of Sunset and Via de la Paz ($10,000); Cal National Bank ($5,000); Pacific Palisades Junior Women’s Club ($5,000); and Riviera Masonic Lodge 780 ($5,000), according to Chief Business Officer Greg Wood. Once the aquatic center is complete, Dresser-Held is positive that the school will be able to afford operating it. The projected annual operating cost is roughly $375,000, and Dresser-Held anticipates that the school will bring in about $500,000 annually by leasing the pool to aquatic user groups during non-school hours. The surplus will be set aside for maintenance and repairs. ‘In building our business plan for operation, we were conservative in only assuming that 75 percent of non-school time the pool would be permitted out,’ Dresser-Held said. Aquatic user groups can secure time from 5 to 7 a.m. and after 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, as well as on the weekends during the school year, Dresser-Held said. The pool will be available all day during the summer. Westside Aquatics has contributed financially to the construction of the pool and has already secured pool time. Dresser-Held added that school leaders are ‘committed to offering public swimming, currently envisioned to be on Sundays, but we are still considering different models for providing this.’ The school’s fundraising efforts for the pool are ongoing, with a tribute dinner for Gilbert planned for June 5 at 6:30 p.m. at the Sheraton Delfina in Santa Monica. Dinner costs $150, with all proceeds benefiting the aquatic center. Contact: palihigh.enschool.org.

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