By: Donna Duperron
Several individuals in our community are familiar with Red Car Brewery and Restaurant, but I imagine there are more individuals in our community that know, respect and call owners Bob and Laurie Brandt ‘friends.’ After 25 years of providing a warm and welcoming place for patrons, Bob and Laurie have sold Red Car, a staple of the South Bay community, dedicated to comfort, quality, and service.
I am one of those individuals who is proud to call Bob and Laurie true friends. In the 23 years I have known them, they have continually given back, they have assumed leadership roles in organizations, and they have been remarkable parents, mentors, and role models. Laurie served as Chairwoman of the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce in 2018, providing a business perspective and an individualized touch in all that she did. Below are testimonies from individuals in our community who have seen, firsthand, the impact that Bob and Laurie have made.
“I could spend hours extolling how much Bob and Laurie impacted our community. As the founders/proprietors of the Red Car Brewery, they collaborated in many great charitable causes in our city with their involvement – both time and philanthropically. And they always did so with smiles and fantastic attitudes.
The Brandt’s love our city! I really hope they know just how much the city and its residents, businesses and visitors love them,” stated Pat Furey, former Torrance Mayor.
“When the Red Car Brewery opened almost 25 years ago, it was the second family restaurant on Sartori and the first microbrewery in Torrance. Bob and Laurie have worked tirelessly to make the Red Car the landmark and destination it is today. They successfully balanced business ownership with raising two wonderful children, Paige and William.
The Brandts have always given back to our community with donations and more importantly, their time. Bob was the first president of our revamped Downtown Torrance Association (DTA), and Laurie continued the tradition as a DTA Board member. We have produced numerous events together over the years. I treasure their friendship and will miss their daily presence terribly, but I know they are just a text or phone call away,” expressed Julie Randall, President, DTA.
“Laurie and Bob Brandt have taken cheerleading to the next level when it comes to El Camino College, and other great organizations in our South Bay community. We are grateful for their support and kindness. Laurie is an invaluable member of the El Camino College Foundation Board of Directors. They are two of the most genuine people you will ever know, and we are proud to call them our friends,” explained Andrea Sala, Executive Director, El Camino College Foundation.
“Bob and Laurie Brandt are incredible individuals who have been a tremendous asset to Downtown Torrance. Their leadership in the Downtown Torrance Association and the Torrance Chamber of Commerce has helped strengthen and sustain growth in the community. As small business owners, they understand the unique challenges of entrepreneurship and are always there to lend a helping hand or a listening ear. Their active participation in DTA events, commitment to local fundraisers, and passion for bringing people together make them invaluable members of the community. On top of all that, they offer great food and beer at their restaurant, making every visit a pleasure,” said Kirk Rossberg, Owner, Torrance Bakery.
