Hey, neighbor!
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Good morning from a kitchen that's somehow already collecting watermelon, sunscreen, and tiny American flags. 🇺🇸

You've got burgers to thaw, beach chairs to dust off, and a long weekend to look forward to, so we'll keep this quick...

May your barbecue stay smoky, your fireworks be spectacular, your parking spot at the beach be surprisingly easy to find, and your summer memories be the kind that sneak up on you years later.

In this issue:

🌊 Fourth of July fireworks, the perfect summer salad + your complete holiday weekend guide

🌊 Meet the Torrance officer who came home to serve the community that raised him

🌊 The local favorites, hidden gems, and small summer delights worth adding to your long weekend

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Meet Torrance Police Officer Mathew Lassak

Every community has people who leave to serve.

Mathew Lassak came back.

Growing up in Torrance, he remembers Fourth of July evenings watching fireworks at Wilson Park — memories that still define the holiday for him today.

After serving as a Combat Engineer in the United States Marine Corps, Lassak returned home and now serves as a Community Lead Officer with the Torrance Police Department.

"Coming back to serve as a police officer has been an incredible opportunity because I'm not just working here—I'm giving back to the community that helped raise me," he said.

For Lassak, service has always been about people.

The Marine Corps taught him discipline, resilience, and teamwork. Today, those lessons show up a little differently — at neighborhood meetings, school visits, and community events, where he spends as much time building relationships as responding to calls.

"The people are what make Torrance special," he said. "It's a community where families put down roots, neighbors look out for one another, and people genuinely care about where they live."

He describes Torrance as "a big city with a small-town feel," where everyday conversations help build trust and remind him why he chose to come home.

Of course, Lassak said Independence Day is about more than fireworks.

It's a reminder of the sacrifices made to protect the freedoms we enjoy — and of the communities those sacrifices help preserve.

He said he hopes today's kids grow up remembering Torrance as a place where they felt safe, welcomed, and connected.

"If they grow up inspired to give back in their own way," he said, "I think we've done something right."

Next week, meet Cynthia Aguado, Torrance’s new City Librarian.

Know someone quietly making Torrance better? Submit an idea here. Those are our favorite stories to tell.

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SPONSORED The world's most challenging puzzle? Some of the best local businesses start with a simple sentence. For Scramble Squares, it was: "You know that dumb idea you have for a puzzle? Maybe we should do that." After both losing their corporate jobs, this husband-and-wife team took a chance on an unusual idea: a nine-piece puzzle that looks deceptively easy but has been frustrating, delighting, and humbling puzzle lovers ever since. More than 30 years later, Scramble Squares has grown from a home-based business into a Made-in-the-USA company with 163 different designs covering everything from sports and cars to sea life, music, geography, gourmet food, and animals. Teachers use them in classrooms. Hospitals use them to pass the time. Families bring them on road trips. Seniors use them to keep their minds sharp. And apparently, they're especially popular as gifts for relatives who think they know everything. At $15 each, they're a uniquely South Bay success story—and proof that sometimes the "dumb idea" turns out to be the brilliant one. 🧩 Ages 4–104 🇺🇸 Proudly made in the USA since 1993 🔗 Learn more at ScrambleSquares.com​

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​Suggest an event. | Feature your event.​

If there's one night that feels like the entire city comes together, it's the Fourth of July.

Thousands of neighbors will spread out blankets and lawn chairs around the Civic Center, kids will race around with glow sticks, food trucks will line the streets, and as dusk settles, everyone will look toward the same sky.

The evening begins with live music from the Satin Dollz, food trucks, family activities, and Torrance's inaugural Stroller & Wagon Parade before the city's signature fireworks spectacular launches at 9 p.m. More than 1,200 shells will light up the sky during the 25-minute show, synchronized to a patriotic soundtrack.

The best viewing spots are the LA Galaxy Sports Complex and the west parking lot of the courthouse, but wherever you watch, plan to arrive early — this is one of Torrance's biggest traditions, and for good reason.

Bring a blanket. Pack some snacks. Wear a little red, white, and blue. It doesn't get much more Torrance summer than this. 🇺🇸✨

Friday, July 3

Madrona Marsh Nature Center – Friday Fun at 10 a.m. One of Torrance's sweetest preschool traditions. Kids ages 3–6 and their grownups can enjoy storytime, nature crafts, simple science activities, and a guided walk through the Preserve while learning about the plants and wildlife that make the Madrona Marsh so special. Free with registration.

Smog City West – Live Music with KSR from 6–9 p.m. Ease into the holiday weekend with live music, great beer, and patio vibes at Smog City West. This Friday's performer is KSR, bringing the soundtrack to an easy summer evening in one of Torrance's favorite neighborhood taprooms.

Mom Said Yes Pizza – Tate Simms Band at 8:30 p.m. Kick off Fourth of July weekend with a live show from guitarist and vocalist Tate Simms, whose résumé includes performing with Christina Aguilera, Joe Cocker, Mary Wilson, and George Benson. World-class talent, pizza, cocktails, and an intimate South Bay stage—it doesn't get much better than that.

View Music Bar & Lounge – A Night of SZA with Live Band at 9 p.m. Trade the fireworks for R&B. This live-band tribute celebrates the music of SZA with hits like Kill Bill and Snooze, plus favorites from Summer Walker, Brent Faiyaz, Kehlani, and more. Expect a packed house, big singalongs, and late-night vibes.

Saturday, July 4

Nearby: Riviera Village – Independence Day 5K & Firecracker Dash at 8 a.m. This festive beachfront 5K winds through Riviera Village and along the coast, followed by the Firecracker Dash for kids. Whether you're racing for a PR or just earning your pancakes, it's a fun, family-friendly way to kick off Independence Day before the fireworks begin.

Torrance Home Depot – Kids Workshop: Build a Go Kart at 9 a.m. Looking for a free Fourth of July activity before the festivities begin? Kids ages 5–12 can build a wooden go-kart to take home while learning basic tool skills alongside a parent or guardian. Every participant also receives a workshop apron, achievement pin, and certificate.

Madrona Marsh Preserve – Docent-Led Nature Walk at 10 a.m. Trade the holiday crowds for a peaceful morning at one of Torrance's hidden treasures. Join a knowledgeable docent for a guided walk through the Madrona Marsh to discover native plants, local wildlife, and the surprising biodiversity tucked into the heart of the city.

Primo Italia – Live Music with Connor Thaxter from 5–9 p.m. Dinner comes with a soundtrack as local musician Connor Thaxter performs live on the patio at Primo Italia. Settle in for handmade pasta, a glass of wine, and an easygoing evening of acoustic favorites.

LA Galaxy Sports Complex – Fourth of July Celebration and Fireworks at 6 p.m. Torrance's biggest summer tradition returns with live music, food trucks, family activities, and the city's annual fireworks spectacular celebrating America's 250th birthday. The Satin Dollz will perform a patriotic tribute concert before the 9 p.m. fireworks, while families can join the inaugural Stroller & Wagon Parade — decorate your stroller or wagon and the first 250 participants will receive a commemorative medal. (Watching from home? The fireworks will also be broadcast live on Torrance CitiCABLE and the city's YouTube channel.)

Sunday, July 5

Wilson Park – Southern California Live Steamers at 11 a.m. One of Torrance's most beloved traditions rolls into Wilson Park on the first Sunday of every month. Climb aboard one-third-scale steam and diesel trains for free rides, meet the volunteer engineers who keep the miniature railroad running, and enjoy an afternoon that's just as magical for grownups as it is for kids.

Smog City West – Vinyl Sundays from 4–9 p.m. Bring your favorite record, take a turn behind the turntable, and soundtrack the taproom for the evening. As a thank-you, you'll get $1 off your first pour — making this one of the coolest low-key Sunday traditions in the South Bay for music lovers and craft beer fans alike.

All Weekend

LA Galaxy Soccer Celebration – Galaxy Park (Carson). The World Cup excitement continues just minutes from Torrance as Galaxy Park transforms into a free fan festival for the tournament's Round of 16. Watch matches on giant screens, meet Galaxy players and alumni, enjoy interactive games, giveaways, youth activities, food, music, and family-friendly fun throughout the weekend.

Torrance Historical Society Museum – History of Soccer Collection. As World Cup fever sweeps through Southern California, this timely exhibit celebrates Torrance's unique place in soccer history as the birthplace of AYSO. Explore rare memorabilia from a private collection spanning the global game, then discover how one local city helped shape youth soccer for generations. Open Fridays and Saturdays through August 1.

Del Amo Fashion Center – FIFA Official Merchandise Pop-Up. Need a last-minute jersey before kickoff? The FIFA Official Merchandise Pop-Up is open daily through July 31, stocked with official team jerseys, scarves, hats, collectibles, and World Cup gear. Whether you're cheering for Team USA or another favorite nation, it's the easiest place in Torrance to gear up for the tournament.

Del Amo Fashion Center – Official Studio Ghibli Store. Studio Ghibli fans, this is a big one. Donguri Republic—the official Studio Ghibli merchandise shop—is opening its first-ever U.S. location at Del Amo, featuring more than 400 officially licensed items from My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, Kiki's Delivery Service, Howl's Moving Castle, Princess Mononoke, and more. Even if you're just browsing, the whimsical displays and giant Totoro bus stop make it worth the visit. Now open daily through December 31.

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Weather Forecast? Made for backyard barbecuing.

🌤️ Fri 61°/72° Mostly Sunny
⛅ Sat 62°/73° Partly Cloudy
⛅ Sun 61°/72° Partly Cloudy

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🍽️ Must Try Ko Ryu Ramen | Chicken Ramen | The broth. The noodles. The flavor. Still dreaming about it. ​The Menu →

🎶 On Repeat "Firework" by Katy Perry — Obviously. ​Hit play →​

🏡 Eye Catching 5006 Sharynne Ln. — Tucked away in Candy Cane Lane with all the bells and whistles. ​Let's Go →

👟 The summer shoe, found. The iconic authentic just turned 60, and this red-and-blue pair feels made for Fourth of July barbecues, beach walks, and every farmers’ market in between. Bonus: they're currently under $25.

🇺🇸 Need one dish to bring this weekend? This peach, goat cheese, and arugula salad is fresh, beautiful, and guaranteed to disappear before the burgers are gone.

🏄 Need a hit of nostalgia? Surf Ninjas — the delightfully ridiculous cult classic filmed throughout the South Bay — is worth revisiting. Even if you only watch the trailer, you'll spot familiar places and probably remember half the lines. Kwansu, dudes.

🎒 Call it the Mary Poppins bag of summer. Towels. Water bottles. Snacks. Extra sweatshirts. Sand toys. Somehow there’s still room left. If your weekends involve Torrance Beach, Wilson Park, or Little League, you’ll understand.

🍦 Tiny joy, served cold. These hand-blown juice glasses — complete with tiny ice cream cones — turn lemonade on the patio into something that feels like vacation. Summer is made of little delights like this.

🌊 Beach days don't have to end at sunset. Keep the ocean magic going with our favorite picture books about sandcastles, sea creatures, lighthouses, and waves. Perfect for bedtime after a long day at Torrance Beach.

Found something delightfully Torrance this week? Hit reply and send it our way!

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🗳️ Torrance has a new mayor-elect
​ After one of the closest mayoral races in recent memory, Sharon Kalani has officially been elected Torrance's next mayor, defeating incumbent George Chen by just over 1,100 votes. The newly elected mayor, along with incoming City Councilmembers David Kartsonis and Betty Lieu, returning Councilmember Asam Sheikh, and City Treasurer Aurelio Mattucci, will be sworn in at the July 14 City Council meeting.

🌳 Big improvements are coming to Torrance parks and streets
​ Torrance has approved a five-year, $286 million infrastructure plan that includes upgrades to parks, roads, sidewalks, utilities, and public facilities across the city. Expect to see continued improvements at parks like Wilson, Columbia, El Nido, and Guenser, alongside street repairs and other projects designed to keep Torrance running smoothly.

🚗 Got a classic car? Here's your chance to show it off.
​ Registration is now open for Rock Around the Block's vintage car show on July 16 in Downtown Torrance. Participation is free, but you'll need to register by July 10 to reserve a spot (Call Omar Orozco at (424) 489-3697). If you've been looking for an excuse to dust off your classic ride, this might be it.
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📬 Wait...does your Torrance address actually say Torrance?
​ If you've ever had an app insist you live in Gardena or Redondo Beach instead of Torrance, you're not alone. A new report highlights how mismatched ZIP codes continue to create headaches for some Torrance residents—from voter registration and insurance rates to home values and city services. The city has formally asked the U.S. Postal Service to review the boundaries and is also supporting federal legislation that could eventually give Torrance its own unique ZIP code.

⚾ A hometown day at Dodger Stadium
​ One of Torrance's favorite summer traditions is back. Torrance Dodger Day returns Aug. 16, giving residents access to discounted tickets to see the Dodgers take on the Brewers—plus a chance to win a pregame photo on the field. It's a fun excuse to fill a section of the stadium with familiar faces.

🌿 One of Torrance's best free perks
​ Here's something you might not know: the City offers free bark chips for mulch and composting at Lago Seco Park. Bring a shovel, bring a bucket, and help yourself while supplies last. Gardeners, this one's for you.

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This week's delight Skip your usual order. This week, visit any favorite neighborhood spot and ask: "What would you recommend to someone visiting for the first time?" Then trust it. Why?

Every local business has a story, and often it's hiding in plain sight right there on the menu. This week is about experiencing a little piece of Torrance through the things people love most.

📍 Report Back: Hit reply and tell us where you went, what you ordered, and whether it lived up to the hype.

🎁 Win This Week: A gift card to one of our favorite local eats. Reply with your adventure, invite a friend by forwarding this email and cc'ing hey@torrancetide.com, or share your discovery on Instagram and tag @torrancetide. Each one earns you another entry into this week's Summer Surprise.

🎉 Congratulations to last week's winner, Kathleen G. Check your inbox for your sweet treat winnings!! 🍦

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Pass The Tide Along 🌊

If this issue made you feel a little more connected to Torrance, forward it to someone who’d love it, too.

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The Tide is growing neighbor by neighbor — and every share genuinely helps. 🫶

➡️ Celebrate, roast or cheer on your friends and family here! Pick on your buddy for his team losing another MLB game. Shower praise on your mother-in-law on her birthday. Share an inside joke with your BFF. Make this space yours.​