Focus LA January 2017

B E V E R LY H I L L S | B R E N T W O O D | M A L I B U | W E S T H O L LY W O O D | S A N T A M O N I C A

COMMUNITY POWERED EXECUTIVE CHEF CRAIG’S LA

KURSTEN KIZER

GIRLTALK NETWORK

SARAH PENDRICK

FOCUS TRAVEL EDITOR

WENDY BROKAW KRETCHMER

AUTHOR AND PHILANTHROPIST

JANUARY 2017 | FOCUSMAG.US

JULIE STEINES AND NORBERT

INSPIRATION ISSUE

HOST | FEARLESS FEMALES

JANET GUNN

FOUNDERS | CEREMONY MEDITATION

ROXY GHORAISHY, TRAVIS MAJICK

LISA MANSFIELD

Realtor, NRT’s Top 1,000 Sales Associates

310.481.4313

lisa.mansfield@sothebyshomes.com www.lisamansfield.com

Operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc.

BRENTWOOD BROKERAGE | 11911 SAN VICENTE BLVD SUITE 200 | LOS ANGELES | CA 90049

Focus TV

http://focustv.us

Ceremony Meditation

Julie Steines

Kursten Kizer

Campbell Hall

ceremony.focustv.us

jan2017.focustv.us

jan2017.focustv.us

jan2017.focustv.us

Tower Cancer

Doron Libshtein jan2017.focustv.us

Digital Shopping Channel

Macha Tea Cafe

tower.focustv.us

Shade Hotel

Keinejad

Soupure

travel.focustv.us

www.focusevents.us

jan2017.focustv.us

Girl Talk

BH Surgery Group

Hollywood Bag Ladies

Shop For Success

www.focusevents.us

www.focusevents.us

www.focusevents.us

www.focusevents.us

jan2017.focustv.us

jan2017.focustv.us

We Are LA www.focusevents.us

CONTRIBUTORS

Tambi Saffran (Stollman) Tambi grew up in NY. She left a producer job at MTV to start a family. Returning to her passion of producing and music, Tambi is currently producing a documentary called She Rocks! about female guitarists. In her spare time she enjoys being a mom, hiking, boxing and live music. instagram.com/just_tambi

Suzan Brittan A Southern California resident, but forever native New Yorker, started in Los Angeles as a singer/songwriter/ actress. However, to pay for luxuries like rent, a car and food, she climbed many corporate ladders and climbed right back down. She finally found her niche and outlet as a creative and non-fiction writer. imdb.com/name/nm1483913

Melissa Meyers As a tastemaker and lifestyle blogger, Melissa’s passion is to share her best-kept beauty, style and wellness secrets with other women to enhance and simplify their lives. Through her experience as Founder of AskMelissa, PageDaily and now her personal blog Melissa Meyers Glow Girl, Melissa has spent over 15 years sharing valuable tips and product picks to help women with everything from selecting the best skincare lines to chic activewear, street style and healthy eats. melissameyers.net

4 FOCUS | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 7

Wendy Brokaw Kretchmer Wendy is an editorial producer at CNN but considers her most important job to be raising her 2 girls. Her rare spare time is spent on a multitude of passions including fundraising, cancer awareness, fitness, and her guilty pleasure – Pinterest. instagram.com/wendbrokaw

Janet Gunn a Texas gal, born and raised, currently soaking up the sun in Southern California and day dreaming of life in Italy. I love jazz, scarves, Diane Keaton movies, fitness, flowers and creating in my kitchen. gratefulgardenia.com

Laura Nix Gerson Laura is the Founder & Editor of MomAngeles, a site she launched because she was planning a lot of playdates and her friends kept asking her where to go and what to do. It seemed easier just to put it all online, in one place. Laura has a delightful, creative daughter who keeps her endlessly entertained and her desire to always be on the go helps fuel this site. MomAngeles is the go to resource to find the latest and greatest services in LA to make your life easier! momangeles.com

Dina Manzo Dina Manzo is an artist first and foremost...an artist, a curator of all things beauty. You may have seen a glimpse of her passionate spiritual force on Bravo’s Real Housewives franchise or HGTV’s Dina’s Party. Wherever you have seen her, it’s only a small window into her world of inspired living. Consider her your guide on your personal path to beauty, wellness, health and joy.

“The simplest ritual of beauty can elevate and transform...” instagram.com/dinamanzo

Michelle Gillette Certified Martha Beck Life Coach Owner of Thrive + Fly Coaching Over 10 years experience in personal growth, health & wellness. thriveandfly.com

Shirin Yadegar Shirin Yadegar is the Founder of LA Mom Magazine. The mission of the magazine is to empower moms to feel self-confident about the decisions they make for their families. lamommagazine.com aims to help thousands of moms find the products and services they need to make motherhood easy and fun. lamommagazine.com

EDITOR LETTER

Community powered.

Editor Andrew Waldman andy@focusmag.us Focus TV Editor/Hosts Tambi Saffran Alex Wehrley Wendy Brokaw Kretchmer Sande Charles Hillary Gadsby Staff Writer Felicia Waldman Suzan Brittan Sabrina Blatteis Photographers Dalen Muster Ben Shani Dana Adams Videographers Dalen Muster Ben Shani Racquel Levin Publisher + Creative Director Mark Castellino mark@focusmag.us Copyright 2017 by Focus Media Agency.

Focus (ISSN 2328-1359) is published 6 times per year. Please do not to reproduce any of the content without permission.

Subscription and distribution inquiries: promo@focusmag.us

2017. We’re looking forward to new beginnings, a fresh start, a time to reflect and improve, a time for new hopes and dreams. We’re hopeful our world will move on from the uncertainty of looking right and left, and find a peaceful center that will ground us all.

We are inspired by so many of the folks featured in this month’s issue. We feel hopeful reading their stories and we hope you will too. We’re inspired by our cover feature on Julie Steines for her wonderful philanthropy and her adorable canine partner, Norbert the therapy dog. We are motivated by life and business strategist, Dave Cantin, a mentor who encourages positivity and focusing on your goals for success. We want to take up meditation in 2017 after hearing guru Doron Libshtein discuss the healing and long life benefits of this ancient practice. Perhaps a visit to LA’s gorgeous new meditation studio in Venice: Ceremony, also featured in this issue. We are touched by the Teen Line, a wonderful haven for troubled teenagers who need someone to listen; and Tower Cancer Research Foundation for its tireless efforts to help cancer patients, while raising awareness and funds for a cure. We are impressed by our “Fearless Female” and “Empowerista” FocusTV series, as they continue to feature strong women following their passions and motivating many in their paths. And finally, we are inspired by the many stories in this issue of amazing new businesses, fueled by the passions of their owners who follow their dreams.

This and MUCH MORE. Happy New Year from the Focus Team.

May the new year find all of you following your passions, and finding your inspirations.

The Focus Team

ISSUE 23 Cover photo: Dalen Muster

CONTACT US SUBSCRIBE

6 issues for $20 BUY ONLINE

focusmag.us/shop/magazine

Write: 149 South Barrington Place #178, Los Angeles CA 90049 Email:

hi@focusmag.us Advertise:

advertise@focusmag.us

focusmag.us 5

6 FOCUS | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 7

Reset

Creating a Default Positive State of Mind WITH LIFE & BUSINESS STRATEGIST DAVE CANTIN

H

ow great would it be to just reset your life?

Sounds easy right. The press of a button and it all goes the way you’d like. That may sound impossible --- but there is something you can actually do to RESET your mind.

Think about our natural state --- our default state of mind tends to be negative or skeptical. “This can’t happen for me” – or – “I’ll never be able to accomplish x.” Thinking positive thoughts is just not enough.

You have to literally re-wire your thoughts through conscious action.

I want to share with you exactly the steps I took to reset my own mind - to overcome the impossible – no matter the circumstance.

Whether it’s your relationship, your job, your health – or whatever else makes you feel stuck. When we are weighed down by what happens in our life, we have to stop and look around us. We have circumstances, but they are not WHO you are.

When people ask me how I overcame the situations in my life --- they expect an elaborate answer or some magic solution. The secret is that the simplest steps can help you build a natural flow of self-motivation that can push you through absolutely anything.

So what did I do when I was in my darkest times? I “reset” my mind to a positive state. It did not happen overnight. It takes just small repeated steps over and over and eventually this new mindset becomes WHO you are – your natural state.

Step 1: Look around you.

• The people around me were draining me – bringing me down with negativity, making it impossible for me to succeed the way I wanted to.

• Think about it like planting a seed. If you plant a seed in a pile of dust – it will not grow. When you plant it in rich soil, it grows into what it is naturally supposed to be.

• Look at whom you spend your time with. How do they make you feel? Who in your circle builds you up, supports you?

• Now obviously I didn’t just go cutting people out of my life – but I was careful with my time and whom I spent it with.

I became aware of how I felt with certain people and who I needed to be around to overcome any obstacle.

• Look in your life – who do you need to be around less? Who do you need to be around more?

Step 2: Own your stuff.

• Most people live in a state of denial – blaming others for their circumstances and being at the EFFECT of life.

• My next task was to drive my life forward through personal accountability.

• I personally owned all of my mistakes, my flaws – where could I work harder? Who did I need to treat better? What opportunities did I need to take advantage of?

• I didn’t punish myself in this process –I just owned what was mine. You can’t expect to achieve success if you aren’t willing to own what you have right now.

• This process wasn’t easy – but doing it helped me to detox from more negative energy that I was putting on myself – it helped me to prepare to go to the next level.

Step 3: Make every day count.

• I know you’ve heard about the power of gratitude and daily rituals. These simple acts of setting your day up ON PURPOSE can motivate you through whatever the day is going to bring.

• No matter how uncomfortable we are with self-talk – we have to push through that if we want to go from ordinary to extraordinary.

focusmag.us 7

• My morning ritual consisted of 3 super simple steps: I would wake up each morning and state my intention for the day. What did I want to accomplish? How did I want to feel?

Next I took a few deep breaths. Never underestimate the power of your own breath to clear and prepare you for the day.

Lastly, I said out loud what I was grateful for. It sounds pretty simple – but how many people do you see starting their day complaining? How does it feel to listen to them? You get my point.

4. Set Goals You Can Crush.

• I began to set realistic but inspiring goals for myself – goals that I could complete tasks related to without question.

• Each day - regardless of what my task was – I had to complete it.

• As I accomplished small wins, I would gradually raise the bar each day to get to the next level.

• As I was knocking goals down 1 by 1, my confidence and motivation was naturally rising.

• Remember – confidence is REMEMBERED SUCCESS. As we complete things we set out to, how we feel about ourselves naturally improves – This enables us to overcome absolutely anything that is in front of us, no matter how difficult.

• Developing this self-confidence over time paves the way to sustaining self-motivation.

• You become more productive, your skill set becomes savvier, Your MIND IS clear so you are able to think more creatively and outside the you’re your positive state of mind BECOMES YOUR DEFAULT. You begin to direct the course of your own future – and this is the beginning of paving the way towards achieving impossible.

@whoisdavecantin instagram.com/davecantin

8 FOCUS | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 7

focusmag.us 9

BLOG SPOTLIGHT GLOW GIRL melissameyers.net

Wear the Most Stylish Reading Glasses in Support of Stand Up to Cancer melissameyers.net/blog/2016/10/6/stand-with-eyebobs

A few years ago, I realized I was squinting to read small print (yikes!) and was determined to find the coolest reading glasses out there! I was so happy to discover eye-bob’s eyewear [www.eyebobs.com] the creator of the most hip and stylish readers available today. I shared my fab find with all of you and covered them on my blog.

This year, eye-bobs collaborated with Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C) and Katie Couric to create two custom “Take A Stand” frames. I am thrilled to be participating in eye-bobs special charitable collaboration with SU2C and you can too! Between now and December 31st, purchase a pair of readers by providing your magnification and color preference for the “Take A Stand” frames! 20% of the proceeds from the sale of these frames will be donated to SU2C. Melissa Myers Creator of Glow Girl As a tastemaker and lifestyle blogger, Melissa’s passion is to share her best-kept beauty, style and wellness secrets with other women to help them glow from the inside out!

Through her experience as Founder of AskMelissa, PageDaily and now her personal blog Melissa Meyers Glow Girl, Melissa has spent over 15 years sharing valuable tips and product picks to help women with everything from selecting the best skincare lines to chic activewear, street style and healthy foods.

Melissa has appeared as a lifestyle expert and contributor for NBC’s Today and Weekend Today in New York, New York Live, Better.TV, Fox’s Good Day New York and others. She has been featured in People, People StyleWatch, Hamptons Magazine and many other online publications. In addition, she is a brand ambassador for FabFitFun, and a blogger for the Huffington Post. Melissa resides in Los Angeles with her husband, two teenage children and dogs.

You can help raise more funds by taking a selfie with your readers on and share the photo on either Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, and let your followers know who you are Standing Up to Cancer for! Tag your post with #standwitheyebobs hashtag and eye-bobs will donate an additional $2 to SU2C! Their goal is to raise a minimum of $100,000 in order to accelerate innovative cancer research and create new therapies that save lives.

This stylish “Take A Stand” custom frame is flattering on all face shapes as you can see by the different celebrities wearing them. So join John Slattery, Veronica Webb, Michael Bolton, Katie Couric, Bryant Gumbel and moi and spread the word for a great cause.

This cause is near and dear to my heart since my mother has been fighting pancreatic cancer for the past 2.5 years. I have also been working on my own fundraising efforts for the Hirshberg Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research. I feel so proud to be the number two fundraiser in Los Angeles for the LACC 5K/10K Walk/Run that took place at UCLA on October 30th.

We are all either directly or indirectly affected by cancer. Let’s do what we can to make a difference!

Melissa’s blog: Melissameyers.net eye-bobs Stand Up To Cancer glasses: eyebobs.com/su2c

melissameyers.net

focusmag.us 11

12 FOCUS | J A N U ARY 2 0 1 7

FOCUS TV’S NEW SHOW SPOTLIGHT

Fearless Females with Janet Gunn JANET GUNN, of the Grateful Gardenia Blog, is thrilled to have partnered with FocusTV for an enlightening interview segment featuring Fearless Females from the Los Angeles area. The segment--much like its ebullient hostess--is designed to be motivational, inspirational, and transformative.

A

s a Texas gal born and raised, I have always thought big and sought out whatever adventure was on the horizon. From my days as a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader, to serving mile-high cocktails as a flight attendant, to being in the spotlight as a Hollywood actress, to creating beautiful bobbles as a jewelry designer, to being a wife and a mom, to launching my lifestyle blog The Grateful Gardenia, I am happiest when I feel empowered and when I push myself out of my comfort zone. (Whatever that might be at any given moment!)

Throughout my life, I have made it a priority to live a healthy, active, engaged lifestyle. However, as I transitioned into my 50s, I began to realize that the seeds I had planted around me--my son, my businesses, my home--were growing stronger and more independent every day. That was both a joyful realization, and a tough one. The things that gave my life its shape no longer needed as much tending, and I began to feel a certain sense of fulfillment slipping away.

Not that anything was wrong per se – I am very thankful for the many blessings surrounding me--but I found myself thinking, What is the next phase of my life going to look like???

focusmag.us 13

Above: Haleh Lekkos Right (top to bottom): Melissa Meyers Laurella Johnson Christie Kidd Sandra Roderick

Enter The Grateful Gardenia blog! I began the blog as an outlet both for my pent-up creativity, and out of a desire to stay motivated, keep growing, and share my journey with other passionate women grappling with transition. When FocusTV came calling, seeking to shine a light on affirmational women of all backgrounds,the pieces clicked perfectly into place. Thank you, Universe! Our interviews feature empowered women who have faced fear and uncertainty in their lives, and forged ahead to create, achieve, and inspire. The segments are bite-sized and packed with light-hearted, yet informative conversations.Think of us as your best new gal pal in-the-know!

So far, we’ve had discussions with a life coach, a beauty expert, an entrepreneur, a lifestyle expert, a breast cancer survivor, mothers, empty-nesters, re-inventors – and we’re just getting started! All of our “Fearless Females” prove transformation is possible at any age. Tune in, get excited about your life, and let these women inspire you.

I am so grateful to Focus Magazine, and these incredible women who shine and share their stories...and of course the support from my amazing friends and family…

ff.focustv.us gratefulgardenia.com

14 FOCUS | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 7

The Beauty of Friendship and Fashion Keinejad Jeans Benefit Fashion Show”

BY ALISA RUBY BASH

Living in Los Angeles, there is no shortage of beauty and eye candy all around. Sometimes it is easy to lose sight of what is real, and stay grounded. However, when life knocks you down, you realize what matters in your life, and who is there to pick you back up. Diana Keinejad, originally from Norway, the Founder and designer of the Los Angeles based denim line Keinejad Jeans, experienced one of those life-changing moments in November 2014. When her young, healthy, best friend, Henning Fellinghaug, also originally from Norway, was diagnosed with a life- threatening kidney failure in the emergency room one night, seemingly out of nowhere, doctors couldn’t believe he was still alive. Since that fateful night, Keinejad has been with him every step of the way, exploring experimental treatments, and biding time until the right donor match can be found.

On 1 October, Keinejad hosted a phenomenal fashion show and fundraiser event at the stunning, oceanfront venue, Cure by Benya Medical Spa in Malibu, across the street from Nobu. The allure of the Pacific Ocean, denim-clad models and the entire scene, was only topped by the beauty and intention behind the event. The fundraiser partnered with an organization that promotes awareness about kidney disease, but the specific goal of the event was to find a kidney for Henning. Down to 3% kidney function and on a 10 year wait list for a new kidney, Henning proudly walked the runway shirtless, accessorizing his Keinejad Jeans with his dialysis pacemaker tube.

One of the models on the runway, Lily Hernandez, only 25-years old, also on the 10 year wait list in line for a kidney, rocked the runway with her dialysis which is located inside her arm. Both Henning and Lily do not have ten years left, and without the proper donor stepping forward, their future is bleak.

www.focusevents.us

Not only did the Keinejad fashion show rock to the awesome tunes of DJ James Kennedy, showcase Keinejad’s sexy spring women’s and Men’s line, but it also brought forth five potential kidney donors who have volunteered to undergo testing to determine whether they are a match. The event was a true testament to friendship, fashion, and the heart of human kindness. Let’s keep our fingers crossed for Henning, Lily, and all those who are in line waiting for a miracle.

keinejad.com

focusmag.us 17

18 FOCUS | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 7

Tower Cancer Research Foundation

Imagining A Cure For The Next Generation

BY SUZAN BRITTAN

T

enacity, Hope, Health, Fulfill Your Purpose, Respect, One of a Kindness, Pay it Forward, Everyday is a Blessing, Attitude: These are only a few of the words some of the guests at the Tower Cancer Research Foundation’s Magnolia Council Luncheon said would be their mantra to feel empowered and give them strength.

“Here’s to the Ladies Who Lunch,” never had a more powerful meaning than it did at the 10th Annual Magnolia Council Spirit of Hope Luncheon and Boutique gathering on October 10th, 2016.

It was electric, full of grace and some of the most influential and proactive human beings on the planet. Thus, there was one mission statement, which summed up the event: “IMAGINE A CURE.” I’ll get back to why this proclamation is so important to this cause, a bit later.

What do you get when you mix a visionary surgeon with an imaginative philanthropist? The answer: this year’s luncheon honorees – Dr. Edward H. Phillips and Chairman of the Magnolia Council and Philanthropist, Shelley Warsavsky. Let’s start with Dr. Phillips who has literally saved numerous and countless lives. He’s basically a Super Hero... “Dr. Hero” has a nice ring. But, he’d argue, that he’s just a man on a mission doing what he does best – help people in dire need - live.

He is considered a prominent practitioner, clinical researcher and groundbreaking specialist on laparoscopic and breast surgery. His credentials are endless: a Professor of Surgery, Vice Chairman of the Department of Surgery, Director of the Division of General Surgery, and Founding Director and Co-Director of the Saul and Joyce Brandman Breast Cancer Center at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center.

He was also the Founding Director of the Wasserman Breast Cancer Risk Reduction Program and is the Director of the Sharon Osbourne Colon Cancer Program. If you want some not-so-light reading or just want to do your own intensive research, he has written eight surgical books published in four languages.

Warsavsky deserves a superhero cape of her own. She is not only the Chairman on the board of the Magnolia Council; her board member hat-trick also includes serving on the board of Tower Cancer Research Foundation (http://towercancer.org/) and the Governors of Cedars Sinai Hospital. Did I mention she also speaks Spanish, was a teacher in LAUSD and still acts as an educator and lecturer at the Museum of Tolerance. She has devoted her life to serving others, finding a cure for cancer, spreading awareness of this cause and raising as much money as possible. Her giving doesn’t stop there. The donations garnered support a variety of programs at Tower. Some are also dispersed for research grant money toward a promising “…young physician scientist” in Southern California, often providing the very first research grant for these up-and-coming cancer researchers. Some of the funding help run the LA CanSurvive patient support program (http://towercancer.org/lacansurvive/), which provides a, “…toolkit to manage the challenges of the disease” at no cost, including weekly in-depth programs and workshops. Warsavsky’s accomplishments are impressive and varied, but I’m sure none of them compare to the feeling of being part of helping to cure another person of cancer because of her tireless efforts to support cancer research. Thusly, you can appreciate why Dr. Edward H. Phillips and Shelley Warsavsky are put on this year’s well-deserved Honoree pedestal.

The Magnolia Council (founded in 2009) is made up of powerful women who are community leaders and has raised almost two million dollars since it first started. The council hosted its 10th Annual, “Spirit of Hope Luncheon and Boutique” (with over 23 vendors) accommodating a lot of movers and shakers and poignant partners with a record breaking 640 plus attendees. It’s become a well oiled, fund raising machine over the years, which raised almost $500,000 for the Tower Cancer Research Foundation (TCRF Tower) at this

focusmag.us 19

event alone. TCRF Tower, celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, with its charity platform partners, has raised well over twenty five million dollars in the last decade alone, which is impressive, but never enough. As we know, you can never raise enough money to help find a cure for breast cancer and that every dollar helps.

One of the very generous donations raffled off at this year’s luncheon was a handcrafted, solid 14kt gold with diamonds bracelet ($2,100 value) created by famous jewelry designer to the stars, Shery Shabani, founder of BE-RAW, which means, BE Resilient Authentic Willing.

Her ‘mission statement’ cuffs are partnering with celebrities, charities and influencers to help increase donations and awareness for all of their causes. (See her in our October 2016 Focus Magazine issue).

This particular contributed cuff claims the saying, “IMAGINE A CURE,” coined by Nancy Mishkin, the Chairman of the Board of TCRF Tower. The cuff articulates the hope that one day, we won’t have to “imagine”, but because the cure for cancer will be our reality.

Shabani presented Mishkin with her very own cuff so every time she looks at the bracelet on her wrist, it’s a reminder of the incredible work TCRF Tower is doing to find cures. It invokes the hope we all have for a cancer-free future. Shabani donates twenty percent back to TCRF Tower from the “IMAGINE A CURE” bracelets purchased at the luncheon’s boutique or on the BE-RAW website. (berawdesigns. com/collections/imagine-a-cure-collection). Shabani also presented an, “IMAGINE A CURE” bracelet to Kelly Prather, who is a breast cancer survivor herself, a board member of TCRF (founded in 1996), and a founding board member of its other fundraising platform,Tower’s young leadership division, Cancer Free Generation (CFG). She’s a proclaimed; “…wife, mom, friend and sister,” and expresses; “I don’t feel that surviving cancer has really defined me… I feel that what I’m doing to try and cure cancer is what defines me. The Tower Cancer Research Foundation saved my life and I am forever grateful to 20 FOCUS | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 7

them.” CFG, which was co-founded by Prather in 2012, is a group of influential professionals who are determined to attack cancer on all fronts by funding progressive and innovative research from ‘up and coming’ physician scientists and supporting programs for young people and their families fighting cancer. It is driven by the Young Leadership Division of TCRF, most all of which like Prather, many members of CFG are young cancer survivors themselves.

It’s set on funding progressive and innovative research assisting ‘up and coming’ physician scientists and support programs for young people fighting cancer. CFG’s mission is clear: Make the next generation the first cancer-free generation.

I took a look-see at the TCRF/CFG Tower’s LA CanSurvive October programs calendar to see what’s in store for anyone affected by this horrific disease. It’s very impressive with a variety of free current, holistic and fitness based classes. Some of which they offer: Tibetan Singing Bowl and Gong Sound Meditation, Reiki Group Circle, Belly Dancing, Mudwalking developed by Taoist Monks or Drumming into Stillness where you communicate through ‘sound play’. This diverse roster attracts all ages at all stages. I’m sure one of their research scientists can offer all sorts of reasons why these types of classes help to reduce stress and create a euphoric sense of well-being. Speaking of research, Tower has participated in over 200 clinical trials, involving thousands of patients and impacting tens of thousands of lives. In 2008 TCRF Tower Cancer Research Foundation sharpened its focus by giving more funding and resources to bolster basic science research. They have funded over two hundred clinical trials. TCRF Tower explains their methodology for investing two million in “seed money” to their young cancer researchers; “This change in approach is rooted in our strong held belief that understanding the mechanisms by which cancer develops and spreads is an essential step towards

effectively treating and preventing the disease.” Tower now awards a multitude of different scientific grants from one-year $100,000 Career Development Grants to five year $500,000 Senior Investigator Grants to $1,000,000 Multi-disciplinary Discovery Funds. Over the past several years, Tower has awarded $2 million to 32 young, pioneering researchers pursuing novel hypotheses. Thus far their grassroots investment strategy worked; the seed money grew to a whopping thirty-five million in supplemental funds given by other cancer organizations and centers to help reinforce these young scientists that Tower TCRF literally banked on.

The successful luncheon was filled with many cancer survivors, tower.focustv.us supporters, donators and volunteers. There was one guest who stood out because she asked a simple, resounding question regarding Dr. Phillips, “How do you say thank you to someone who saved your life?”

Best way – donate, so you can help save others. They make it easy for you - there’s a big orange “DONATE” button on the top right of the Tower Cancer Research Foundation towercancer.org TCRF Tower website: towercancer.org

focusmag.us 21

The Girl Talk Network Helping to inspire, empower and change the lives of women, together!

BY SARAH PENDRICK Sarah Pendrick with The Bella Twins

Sarah Pendrick with Empowerista, Alex Wehrley

www.focusevents.us

22 FOCUS | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 7

I created GirlTalk because of my passion for women supporting each other and helping others. I came from a background of marketing and started my own boutique PR/Marketing agency.

I had a career where I was making money and achieving my “goals” but I really struggled with not feeling fulfilled. I wanted to share my mistakes and struggles with others, as I always found fulfillment in connecting and bringing people together. I dreamed of creating an organization that was based on women supporting each other, helping each other and supporting other causes. I know how hard women can be on themselves, and that we all need a sisterhood. I truly believe in how powerful just one woman can be, and when you get us all on the same team, that is when it is unstoppable.

GirlTalk Mission: GirlTalk is a nonprofit and a platform for women in all areas of life. We are about positivity, empowering and supporting women, and giving back. All the proceeds from our events go to charities surrounding family and women’s issues, as well as our Self Love and Empowerment retreats and our school tour (launching this Winter). We have gone national

as the GirlTalk Network, helping to inspire, empower and change the lives of women! Together, we are changing the meaning of “girl talk,” spreading GirlPower and women supporting women nationwide.

GirlTalk’s event series, “Connect+Inspire” connects attendees to celebrity motivational speakers, an empowering panel of inspiring women and female entrepreneurs who share their journeys, do Q&A’s, engage in discussions surrounding women supporting women, and offer advice on self love and working together to overcome obstacles to pursue dreams. There is a long list of speakers who have joined the movement and organization, including the GirlTalk keynote speakers and ambassadors, The Bella Twins.

Girl Talk

girltalkla.org

focusmag.us 23

24 FOCUS | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 7

Doron Libshtein A Purpose-Full Wellbe-Ing

BY SUZAN BRITTAN INTERVIEW BY DINA MANZO

“PURPOSE.” The word is almost daunting. We all seek a purpose and seem to STRESS out about it on a daily basis. Why do we exist on this planet here, now - at this moment in history? Dina Manzo, FOCUS TV Host, had the opportunity to sit down and chat with Doron Libshtein, on one of his weeklong monthly rounds to The Hall Center for which he is also Chairman, (founded by Dr. Prudence Hall – www.thehallcenter.com) all the way from his home country of Israel. Libshtein doesn’t know the answer, because it’s your answer. It’s your quest and your journey for which he gently escorts you through to your epiphany. But, who better to help you than Doron who is considered the Master Mentor of mentoring mentors and a meditation guru.

How else would you describe Doron Libshtein? He’s a life improver. Now that’s a title.

His bio is vast and reads like he’s a high tech spiritual sage. He not only demonstrates in front of clients, but also gives his community of followers the ability to tap into his knowledge and teachings via their smart phones and laptops using the Internet. Doron directs The Hall Center’s holistic wellness practice. His mentorship program combines the Hall Center’s scientific anti-aging therapies with transformative Eastern healing, including consciousness-expanding practices to deliver the ultimate approach to health on every level.

jan2017.focustv.us

He spends his life trying to improve yours via meditation, council and self-healing.

He’s an Entrepreneur, Inventor and the founder, Chairman and CEO of the Mentors Channel (http://store.mentorschannel.com/). When Doron was only thirty-six years young, he left a massive dream job overseeing about 4,000 employees under him at Microsoft. His reason was to find his purpose in this life and help others tap into their own purpose via self-realization, natural healing and a bit of technology. A big part of his practice is guiding other mentors. In his own words: “I help mentors all around the world to increase their influence… they have their mission and purpose.”

Dina asked him how does one even begin to meditate and start on their path to a purpose. He explains, “I help clients to know who they are and to heal themselves…

It starts with the physical, it’s thoughts, feelings and spiritual realm… combine the physical and spiritual together.” Dina notices her; “…spirituality shifts when you combine mind, body, spirit.” At The Hall Center, Dr. Hall’s mission is to bring Eastern traditions and Western medicine together to, “…address the root causes of disease often in the face of tremendous suffering …take you on a journey to your purpose… combines scientific anti aging therapies with transformative Eastern healing including

focusmag.us 25

consciousness practices.” Doron is a conduit and practitioner for this assignment. He states, “When you know your purpose and realize it, you live seven years more than people who don’t know their purpose.”

He is in part fulfilling his vision and purpose while giving his community of followers the power back to monitor their own stress levels with a high tech device called the, WellBe (https:// thewellbe.com/products/the-wellbe-bracelet). It’s a digital bracelet designed to support your well being by wearing it on Meditation and breathing seems to be a big part of taking your wrist, which connects to an application on your Smart your life’s stress down quite a few notches. Who notices their Phone. It includes a heart rate monitor and detects your stress breathing habits? We eat, we breathe and we work. These are levels. Let’s say you’re at work and your boss is yelling at you; things we must do, but we haven’t really noticed how we breathe. your bracelet will note the levels of stress you’re experiencing Dina, who is, “out of the spiritual closet,” and is a daily meditator, in the moment, send you a text and log it. If you’re late for an understands that stress creates about 78% of illnesses. She quiets event, date or meeting, on a crowded bus, at work or around her mind being in nature and with animals. She journals and fills people who affect you, your WellBe will notate it for you. her pages with words of gratitude. But, she was curious if her This technological wrist wonder will let you know who, what, methods of meditation and brain relaxation are the correct way where and when your stress is peaking, then offers exercises or to accomplish true bliss. meditation methods to help you in the moment to release your anxiety.

Dina asks Doron, “Do you have to be mindful of where you sit in silence and quiet your mind and do the breathing?” He was WellBe co-founder, Zach Savin gives some light geek tech speak; very thankful for this particular question, as it’s an important “It has an algorithm to determine your stress level, connects factor as to why most people don’t rest their minds, because they with your calendar upon your permission and provides a don’t think they know how. He explains, “There are three million solution with biofeedback exercises and instruction by world people in my community, there is no one way to meditate and class mentors from the Mentors Channel.” The stealthy iWatch reduce stress and calm the mind… could be eight billion ways looking fashion trendy bracelet is environmentally friendly as it’s (to meditate). We each find our way: running, cycling, breathing, made with cork skin from an Oak Tree, comes in different colors swimming, singing or repeating a mantra.” It’s recommended we and works to support your overall health all day with hourly meditate at least once per day, anytime, any way and wherever monitoring. The WellBe bracelet took over a year to produce (is we wish for our health, mental and emotional condition. But, currently conducting an Indiegogo crowd-funding campaign) it’s important to remove obstacles: a barking dog, the news, your and is so smart, it actually learns your body, and how it operates cell phone and laptop should not be in the same room, unless every moment it’s worn. you need some cool ‘Buddha Lounge’ chill music playing from iTunes. Doron advises not to worry about, “…not thinking. Who Are you wondering if the WellBe bracelet can help you find can remove thought? Just trying not to think will really frustrate your purpose? I’m sure Doron will agree it’s a step forward. us.”

You can also join his Mentors Channel and tap into over 1,000 meditations offered with just a click or read his entire, There are a few different ways to meditate, one is to sit by “Reaching High” book series. First things first, you must start yourself or with others and relax how you see fit. Another way meditating, have conscience breathing: breathe in for 4 and out is to be in a guided meditation class. For beginners a guided for 8, journal about any thoughts of gratitude every night and meditation could seem easiest. Some, like Dina also do a form of stop watching the news before you sleep. The next step in your elevated prayer for others or to manifest something she desires journey to balance your mind, body and spirit is to visit 406 or needs. Doron explains that this type of prayer is “connecting Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica, California where you’ll find to the source”, or a direct connection with God or their guides. the The Hall Center. Experience first hand their Mindful Medical The most important idea is to connect and take away suffering to Practice and take advantage of Doron Libshtein while he’s in bring us to power, passion and purpose. town for his weeklong stay to help as many souls as he can.

Doron conveys; “Back in 2004 my vision was to bring personal growth to the masses. I felt that 14 years in senior positions at Microsoft prepared me to bring the technology and infrastructure that allows people to improve their well being anywhere, anytime and on any device. I have the privilege to work with the best mentors in the world and I am full of gratitude for that. I also have the privilege of working with an amazing team that works days and nights improving the lives of millions.”

26 FOCUS | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 7

thehallcenter.com mentorschannel.com

EMPOWERING Minds Think Alike

BY ALEX WEHRLEY

#Empowerista is a media movement and mentorship program to celebrate women who dare to tell their truest story, and empower other women to do the same. Each week we partner with Focus Magazine’s FOCUS TV, to bring you video interviews with empowered women around Los Angeles. We learn their success secrets and how they’ve broken personal and professionals barriers.

Now that I’ve interviewed dozens of Empoweristas, I’m able to pick up on several recurring themes. One of them is: it’s crucial to stay inspired. The motto “hustle as hard as you can handle” doesn’t always fit for these women. Many of them believe inspiration is the fuel for our creativity, positivity, motivation, productivity and so much more.

I lost count of all the successful women I’ve interviewed who have shared they meditate regularly. And if they don’t meditate, they likely have another method to calm their mind and gain clarity about their purposeful path. From prayer to yoga to journaling to even using a foam roller in the morning -- these women know you often need to slow down in order to speed up.

Many of them explain this helps them stay more inspired and productive throughout their day, more than making up for their allotted zen time. At the end of the day, our journey is meant to be enjoyed. Otherwise, what is the point, right?

Here are four ways to stay inspired, straight from the brilliant minds of Empoweristas:

2. Be nice to yourself “I’m not beautiful like you. I’m beautiful like me.”

Rachael McCrary, Jewel Toned CEO

1. Zen out “I do Vedic meditation twice a day. Twenty minutes in the morning, and twenty minutes in the afternoon. And ultimately to take those forty minutes a day makes me so much more productive and so much more clear and so much more rested that it’s silly for me not to.”

Gianna Wurzl, Co-Founder of One Roof Co-Working

28 FOCUS | J A N U ARY 2 0 1 7

Like everyone else, these women also have fear, doubts and anxieties about their often challenging and unpredictable path.

The reason why they rise above the masses in their respective fields is: they know how to deal with these emotions in a healthy way and keep them in check. Several Empoweristas explained if they’re thinking a negative thought, they will replace it with a positive one.

I often ask these women what their #1 piece of advice is to women a few steps behind them, and so many of them have said: “you need to believe in yourself.” Sometimes it’s not the most talented person, but rather the most confident person who excels the most.

empowerista.focustv.us

3. Express yourself “You have to ask yourself: what fills my soul that I have not been doing? Because we are so hyperfocused on getting the money, getting the job, getting the boyfriend... And it’s like, go play and all those things will magically appear.”

Coach Yari, Founder of The SoulBody Method These women are dynamic with full lives. They don’t just eat, sleep and work. They have hobbies, families and many life experiences. Sometimes testing out a creative idea or coming up with a solution for a problem they found while living life has resulted in their brilliant business. Other times this sense of play, creativity or expression is simply the fuel that keeps them going on the right path for them.

A bit more about the woman behind Empowerista...

The founder of Empowerista, Alex Wehrley, is a TV host seen co-hosting for E!, ABC red carpets and the Miss USA telecast. Los Angeles Business Journal honored Alex on their “20 in their Twenties” list of most successful entrepreneurs for Empowerista, her media movement and mentorship program to empower women to embrace their individuality, discover their purpose, speak up, take action, and ultimately, tell their best and truest story.

4. Let others inspire you “Women are so powerful on their own but when we come together it’s magical... Because we are so powerful as women and we can do anything, when we’re not supporting each other, I feel like it creates insecurities, it creates hate, it creates competition... that’s unneeded.”

Sarah Pendrick, GirlTalk Network Founder These women believe we’re stronger together than we are apart.

They know someone else’s success doesn’t equal their failure.

There are plenty of opportunities to go around, and no one has achieved greatness on their own. They realize they’re more likely to move forward if they are a part of a supportive network. And if someone in their network isn’t supportive, they often remove them from their lives.

Empoweristas surround themselves with like-minded peers who are positive, motivated and big-thinkers. And these peer relationships often turn into meaningful collaborations.

They also have mentors to learn from, ask for help and get encouragement. It’s not that these women never feel a little jealous or even competitive, they’re simply able to channel these feelings into inspiration and motivation.

For more #Empowerista inspiration, check out the full interview series at focusmag.us/empowerista

empowerista.focustv.us focusmag.us 29

Secrets To Looking Forever Young BHPSG Surgeons, DR. PAYMAN DANIELPOUR and DR. JOHN LAYKE make their patients dreams come true at their new Beverly Hills office.

BY SHIRIN YADEGAR

30 FOCUS | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 7

B

everly Hills is not only home to celebrities, billionaires and rock stars, it's also the capital of plastic surgery. In an era where everyone wants to stay forever young, people are willing to spend their savings on a doctor who can make them look younger without anyone knowing it. Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery Group surgeons, Dr. Payman Danielpour and Dr. John Layke, are known for beautifying their patients with minimally invasive procedures for a natural, younger look. “At BHPSG we believe that less is more, whether it's injectables and botox (non invasive) to surgical breasts and faces and noses that are subtle and don't look like they are plastic,” Dr. Danielpour said. “Every week we see many overdone patients and many botched procedures and/or complications from other surgeons in the U.S. and abroad.”

FIXING BOTCHED CASES “Botched plastic surgery” is a term used loosely and can mean a variety of things from actual bad work that led to complications and surgical disasters, to having work done by someone with a poor aesthetic eye. Unfortunately, BHPSG sees dozens of botched cases weekly ranging from too much injectables to oversized and lopsided breast implants. “We took care of a woman who was improperly managed by a dermatologist who removed what the patient thought was a small skin cancer. She arrived at our office with a dressing in place. When I removed the dressing she looked in horror as the entire tip of her nose was gone! Three surgeries later we reconstructed her nose out of her forehead and you couldn't tell anything had happened. That's why I love plastic surgery,” Dr. Layke shared.

space offers both beauty and reliability.

As the most technologically advanced plastic surgery center in the country, these doctors have the tremendous advantage of showing their patients exactly how they will look and making it happen. “We have the new VECTRA 3D Imaging system, which can be used for several different scenarios.The patient stands in front of a 3D camera, an image is captured, and can be manipulated to actually show the patient what can be done in surgery,” Dr. Layke explained. Noses are altered, implants are added, liposuction is virtually performed, and the patient and surgeon can be “on the same page” prior to an operation. In addition, the office computers are set up so that after an image is taken, it not only can be manipulated in any room, but it is transferred to the operating room DAZZLING DUO CREATES BHPSG so the doctors can compare their Dr.Danielpour and Dr.Layke met in 2005 while they were surgeries in “real time” to what was interviewing for plastic surgery residency during their fourth promised at the preoperative visit. year of general surgery residency. This bond was strengthened Not only do they have all the state in 2007, when they were matched with the prestigious Long of the art machines and accessories Island Plastic Surgical Group (LIPSG) plastic surgery residency they need, but they are a surgery duo program. They became roommates, junior and then senior which means half the surgery time. residents together, and eventually partners. “It is unusual for No one wants to be under for longer two residents to work together, but they scrubbed in on each than needed. These plastic surgeons other’s cases, and their planning was often done together,” says work on their patients together so Roger L. Simpson, MD, MBA, FACS, director of the LIPSG residency program for nearly 40 years. “When we would discuss there are four eyes instead of two and they check over each other's work for 100% accuracy. “The some of their cases, both would chime in with opinions. They seemed to complement each other, and they got along very well.” partnership and friendship that I have with Dr. Danielpour, who Dr. Danielpour, a Beverly Hills native, had dreamed of opening a I view as a brother, makes me feel more confident with him next to me and we challenge each other to strive for perfection,” Dr. plastic surgery center in glamorous 90210 but he didn't want to do it without Dr. Layke. Dr. Layke had never even visited Beverly Layke said of the duo's partnership. When asked what they love most about their practice, they both said “my partner”. They are Hills. He grew up in Milwaukee with a stay-at-home mom, a truly the dynamic duo who love working together to achieve school administrator dad, and a house full of sisters, but when natural results in a world where fake and unnatural looking Dr. Danielpour shared his dream with Dr. Layke he was all in. plastic surgery has become ubiquitous.

So the journey began with the doctors taking residence at Dr. “It's better to keep people guessing than to make it obvious,” Danielpour's parents condo and renting an office space from the Dr. Danielpour said of their work. well known holistic/MD, Soram Khlasa. With medical school loans and office rent, the boys were lucky to have a rent-free residence. Fast forward 7 years, and the dazzling duo has now opened the most technologically advanced plastic surgery center in the same building they started.

MOST TECHNOLOGICALLY ADVANCED PLASTIC SURGERY CENTER Walking into the Carrie Livingston designed BHPSG office at 436 North Bedford, will make your jaw drop. It's chic, sleek and modern. Unlike any other doctor's office in the country. “I designed the space to feel unexpected, inspiring and magical.

People relate beauty to fashion. BHPSG office needed to www.focusevents.us represent both,” international designer Carrie Livingston said. As Livingston's first medical office design, she found it challenging to define two doctors' personal style with letting go of the status quo “white office space”. “I channeled Tom Ford, Gucci, YSL and my all time favorite Ralph Lauren,” Livingston said. “The combination of inspiration and experience blended my creativity to captivate a wide audience.” Livingston's captivating office beverlyhillsplasticsurgerygroup.com

focusmag.us 31

Focus TV Shows

Content Served Focus TV is looking for outgoing, interesting presenters to create 5-10 minute weekly shows for our Focus TV network. The subjects can range from current affairs, to fitness, healthy lifestyle topics, design and sports.

If you have an idea for a show, please email editor@focusmag.us and we will get in touch with you.

These are some of the shows that we currently produce.

Empowerista Each week #Empowerista by Alex Wehrley brings you interviews with empowered women around Los Angeles from a wide range of industries, talking about their unique journey and success secrets.

What they all have in common is: ambition, purpose, confidence and empowerment.

Guests include, among others, Eden Sassoon, Heather McDonald, Lauren Gores-Ireland, Lauryn Evarts and Danielle Cuccio.

32 FOCUS | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 7

Focus Events Each week there are dozens of newsworthy events, either for charities, store openings or high profile gatherings. Focus Events aims to cover these events with enthusiastic presenters and interviewers. Please let us know if you wish to be considered.

What’s Good What’s Good is a weekly show hosted by Amy Paffrath and Justin Walter. Each week, they talk about feel good news stories, positive vibes, world changers and good samaritans. Recent guest stars included Kristin Brockman from Hollywood Today Live and Laura Linda Bradley from The Laura Show.

focustv.us focusmag.us 33

34 FOCUS | J A N U ARY 2 0 1 7

Ceremony Meditation Finding Peace in Venice - breathe…heal...ommmmmm INTERVIEW BY DINA MANZO

Left to right: Roxy Ghoraishy, Dina Manzo and Travis Majick

C

eremony Meditation has opened in Venice, on the hottest stretch of Rose Avenue just a half a block from Cafe gratitude, and the early buzz is ahhhhhhhmazing. Created by Roxy Ghoraishy and Travis Majick, the idea of Ceremony was born from their own journeys in meditation and healing. Roxy, a former real estate escrow company owner, and Travis a commercial realtor, faced fast paced and stressful environments daily in their businesses. Together, they found a safe sanctuary in the practice of meditation and learned firsthand the deep meaning and effect it had on their lives. They have created a beautiful peaceful space, a sacred temple in which you can come and meditate, and indulge in a wide array of classes and healing experiences. We spoke with them in the private Japanese zen garden, and could have stayed and relaxed there for days.

Why did you decide to open Ceremony Meditation?

We both have practiced meditation for years, and have recently enhanced our practices and understanding of the wisdom, ancient knowledge and sacredness of meditation, self healing, self-love, and self-care practice. Both being reiki healers & light workers, we wanted to share the knowledge, gift, and hidden powers behind all the benefits of meditation.

Describe the concept of Ceremony Meditation?

At Ceremony Meditation, we invite you to our sacred temple to meditate, join us in a sound bath workshop, get a detox balancer or get a reiki healing by one of our gifted healers.

Our purpose as an intentional community is to provide a space where all beings can feel supported and safe within their practices of meditation, healing, cleansing, self-growth and overall transformation of consciousness. Allowing one’s self to step into the trust of their own evolution. Whether you’re a beginner to meditation or an advanced practitioner we have classes of all levels to help you explore, find balance and peace within and help discover the limitless potential you hold. Let us guide you in a meditation class where you get to sit with the most important person, YOURSELF!! So many times we are

focusmag.us 35

looking for the answers we seek everywhere else but within. We invite all beings of light to Ceremony to teach the sacredness and Ceremonial traditions that is in everything that we do. We share the knowledge of rituals and ancient wisdom and pass these traditions along in our teachings at Ceremony Meditation. We look forward to guiding you along this path of self-discovery, growth, and healing and teach ancient wisdom of the sacredness and Ceremonial rituals behind meditation. We stand with open hearts and expanded minds with all of creation and welcome Indulge in a class in Ceremony’s beautiful outdoor Japanese Zen Garden you to our sacred temple, where we invite you to and temple. take your vibration to the next level.

What makes Ceremony Meditation so different?

What sets us apart from others is the diversity we offer from meditations courses, workshops, detox balancers, reiki healing, rising star healing, reiki healing courses, along with several other modalities of natural homeopathic healings. Our Japanese outdoor temple offers a Zen meditation sand garden with a 10 ft. tall Buddah statue, turtle pond, and mural with 108 OM’s, making the the meditation garden a safe sanctuary to explore, learn, grow, heal and evolve.

For class schedule and more information: ceremonymeditation.com

Super Moon Release Meditation Circle under the stars.

We invite you to Ceremony meditation to manifest the life you desire.

Look within.

Meditate.

Love & Light.

Roxy & Travis

ceremony.focustv.us

ceremonymeditation.com @ceremonymeditation @livv_la 36 FOCUS | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 7

Shop for lifestyle wellness, beauty, and inspirational products for body, soul and home, at Ceremony’s lobby shop “Livv LA” - items curated by Dina Manzo, “Don’t just exist, livv”.

focusmag.us 37

Michelle Carlson Executive Director, Teen Line

The Teen Line Helping Teens – Connect, Talk, Get Help | 310 855 4673

BY TAYLOR SHABANI

O

nce a week, from 5-10pm at Cedar Sinai Medical Center, I volunteer for TEEN LINE, a teen crisis hotline. TEEN LINE is a non-profit organization which offers an outlet for teens who are in crisis. What’s most unique about TEEN LINE is that we’re not just a hotline; we offer various means of communication including calls, texts, emails, and forums to keep pace with the new age of technology.

Moreover, the hotline isn’t limited to the greater Los Angeles area. We answer calls, texts, and emails from all over the world. Yes. All over the world. The subject of each call varies from bullying, rape, abuse, sexual orientation, drug/alcohol addiction, and, often, suicide.

To be honest, my work as a TEEN LINE listener is an incredibly intense job, but what keeps me driven is hearing at the end of the call, "Thank you. You truly saved my life tonight." Though each caller calls in with their own unique issue, they all have one commonality: they want someone to listen to them. In an age of social media, you may think being heard is easy, but there is a stigma against mental health which TEEN LINE directly confronts and diminishes.

Entering as a teen volunteer at TEEN LINE, there is an intense training processes that the teens must undergo in order to be properly prepared for unanticipated calls. Firstly, there is a competitive application process where, once accepted, the TEEN LINE is then interviewed by adults affiliated with the organization. Once the teen is officially accepted into the program, they become what we at TEEN LINE deem, “trainees”.

Trainees are trained for roughly three days a week for three months outside the hotline room, on a series of topics that could possibly be brought up during calls. Once the training process has ended, the teen becomes an “observer”. As an observer, the teen migrates to the hotline room, answers emails, and completes a series of mock calls that act as preliminary tests. After the mock calls have been completed, the observer is expected to finish one final test. After much anticipation, the teen becomes a listener. This process takes about one year to complete in order to ensure that the teen is prepared to answer any type of phone call coming their way.

As a TEEN LINE Listener, I have a plethora of memorable calls.

The one that stands out most is a call I received which I will

never forget because of its general relatability. It was from a girl my age, falling victim to the pressures of school and home life.

She called in sobbing, and she told me she, “didn’t want to be here anymore” (A euphemism to,“I want to kill myself ”). Once a listener hears that the caller is potentially suicidal, it is our job to assess for their safety. In doing that, we have to ask if they know how they would kill themselves. If so, do they have the means accessible to them? If so, do they know when they would perform the suicide? The girl calling in answered yes to all of the above questions, which, of course, was concerning to me. But I was determined to find that part inside of her that told her to call in tonight––the part inside of her that didn’t want to die, but wanted to be helped. After some moments of deep breathing exercises, I kept reiterating to the young girl that she was going to be happy again. She was going to laugh and smile and enjoy the wonders of life. Yet the Teen Line volunteers including girl kept telling me I was Taylor Shabani far right. wrong, that she was never going to laugh again. Later on, as I was assessing her coping mechanisms, the girl told me she enjoyed drawing and organizing things. Jokingly, I suggested that she threw a bundle of colored pencils and organized them in color order as a coping strategy. She laughed. Didn’t I tell her she was going to laugh? Just at the mere sound of her giggle, we both knew she wasn’t going to kill herself. She, later on, promised me she wouldn’t.

Personally, I consider TEEN LINE a give and take process: I give hours of my time and empathy to these young adults calling in, and in return, I gain a whole new appreciation and understanding for the world I live in. I walk into TEEN LINE, possibly disgruntled about a grade I received in school, and I leave TEEN LINE appreciative of everything I have. Working at TEEN LINE has been a gift to me that has consciously allowed me to ‘pop’ the so-called bubble I used to live in.

The Teen Line | 310 855 4673 teenlineonline.org

focusmag.us 39

COVER FEATURE

Julie Steines

Creating A New Home And Family Of Her Own

BY SUZAN BRITTAN INTERVIEW BY AMY PAFFRATH, JUSTIN WALTER PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK STEINES

Julie Steines with Amy Paffrath and Justin Walter

D

isney couldn’t write a better fairytale beginning, ending or plot to the story of Julie Steines. Or, should I call her, Princess Julie? After meeting famous host of Hallmark Channel’s, HOME & FAMILY (former host of ENTERTAINMENT TONIGHT) Mark Steines on his show as a guest, the two fell madly in love. Before she was a Mrs. to Mark, Julie (Freyermuth) was invited as a guest on Home & Family to feature a segment about her famous mixed breed registered therapy dog, Norbert.

I mean, who could resist this cuteness and wholesome overload of these two? (Certainly, not Mark.) It didn’t take more than 24 hours for Mark and Julie to connect on more than a professional level. Within a year after they first met, Julie moved to Los Angeles, got engaged and married.

Dare I ask it – Was her three-pound, seven-inch pup Norbert the reason for this meant to be betrothing? Yes, yes he was. Talk about a Romantic Movie plot.

Julie said, “I knew Norbert was a special little guy since I first rescued him (from PetFinder.com) as a puppy.” She also knew he’d be a big part of her life in many ways. She was right, not only was Norbert the catalyst for meeting Prince Mark, but he

40 FOCUS | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 7

also has the temperament of a puppy making him perfect to volunteer as a registered therapy dog. Norbert the dog helps humans be happy, plain and simple.

He’s so popular, he has his own website (www.norberthood. com/) and has more than 900,000 highly-engaged socials followers including Instagram (www.instagram.com/ norbertthedog/) for which I just became his 378705th follower and Facebook (www.facebook.com/NorbertDog/). Norbert has three books written about him penned by his mommy and his grandma, Dr. Virginia Freyermuth who draws the intricate illustrations. Julie’s dream since she was a little girl was to write a children’s book with her mother, a talented artist. Norbert’s signature side-tongue always sticking out at you makes him unique so he’s instantly recognizable. TIME Magazine said, “His cuteness is transcendent.” I can beat that. Norbert’s cuteness is the definition of cute and if you look up the word “cute” in the dictionary you’ll see a cute picture of Norbert (and probably Julie Steines too)!

Norbert has a super power. Once he enters a room he can instantly change everyone’s mood. He’s a magnet for young and old, dog lover or not. It’s as if his silvery white fur has some sort of magical sway to turn even the grumpiest into the giddiest. Seriously… look at that punim! He’s perfectly coiffed, proven by his cover photo on “Groomer to Groomer” Magazine. His tongue is always ready for sweet kisses and he even gets along with cats. Norbert has been the subject of well over one hundred articles, and featured on tons of radio shows, TV shows, News segments, online blurbs and has won quite a few awards for his ‘dog-manitarian’ (totally made up word, but very suitable) efforts. Julie and Norbert were invited to walk the catwalk (ironic) for fashion week during Anthony Rubio’s

focusmag.us 41

show to promote pet adoption, and auctioned off his “outfit” to raise money for Children’s Hospital Los Angeles’ dog therapy program. This furry philanthropist is one of a kind. We know this because, not only was Norbert the only puppy in his nonlitter – Julie did a DNA test and found out he’s part Long Haired Chihuahua, Lhasa Apso and Cairn Terrier. However, if you must have one, you can buy his clone plushy on Norberthood.com and once purchased, the Norberthood For Good gives one for free to the Marine Toys For Tots Foundations’ Holiday toy drive (which is why he won The Family Choice Award for 2016).

Let’s get to the romantic part of Julie’s fairytale life with Mark.

This former Bostonian girl led a simple, yet full life having the famous Norbert as her front man. By the way, Norbert is the first and only dog Julie ever owned. He is the star she is his Mommy, trainer and travel companion, which took her to Los Angeles and her intro to Mark Steines. He said, “The minute I shook her hand in rehearsal (for the show, Home & Family) I knew she was the one and then she had her little sidekick Norbert there ‘high-5’ me and I was like, I’m all in!”

Julie said, “I called that feeling ‘an absolute yes.’” Her first date with him was on the Red Carpet for a star-studded event. Now that’s a quick intro to the Hollywood fast lane. Thus, began a whirlwind, but destined relationship leading up to their Season 5 Celebration show for which Mark and Julie had planned a surprise. Nope, it was not a Mystery Murder BBQ, Running Charades or Group Karaoke. While both on stage with captive audience of family, close friends, Hallmark executives, cast members and crew, Julie announced their wedding date is, “Today.” A year, plus one day they got hitched throwing a surprise wedding, which was shown on the Hallmark hit series, Home & Family where they first met. Dreamy.

FOCUS TV sat down with Julie to ask about her journey from Boston to Los Angeles, and what it took to fulfill her dream.

She sunk every penny into her children’s books about Norbert and her publishing company, co-owned with her mother, Polly Parker Press. The first book, “Norbert: What Can Little Me Do?” took two years for Julie and her mother Virginia to write, illustrate and publish. In 2013 their book became an instant, international award winning hit and so was the moral of Norbert’s story that, “you don’t need to be big to make a big difference in the world.”

It was only natural to have book number two be about, “Norbert: What Can Little YOU Do?” and encourage his audience of tiny readers to make others smile while spreading kindness. Then, a quickly published follow-up of that same year was, “Norbert and Lil BUB: What Can Little WE Do?” about Norbert’s mission as a therapy dog to make the world a better place and bring smiles to everyone’s faces while teaming up with a cat, “Lil BUB” with magical, celestial powers from a different planet.

Currently, Julie is adjusting perfectly to married life and being the wife of a celebrity, although Norbert just might have more fans and followers than Mark. Being a wife is only one of her

42 FOCUS | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 7

titles. Julie travels with Norbert to make people smile during their therapy work. They are a registered therapy animal team with Pet Partners® and she will always be an author who gives back, whether it’s talking to schools, children’s libraries, other organizations and giving time, money and books - it’s part of her and her mother’s core values and company mission.

Mark said he, “…hit the jackpot” when he met Julie. He’s right.

She’s talented, smart, beautiful, giving, selfless and has a lovely warm personality. Best of all, she has her own sidekick Norbert who almost acts as her intuition meter. She believes in the laws of attraction and to pay attention to the signs right in front of you. Julie said, “I always knew that Norbert would lead me to my husband and knew once that happened, everything would fall into place.” Hmm, I feel another book coming… possibly, “Norbert: How Little Me Helped Mommy Find Her Husband!”

Julie’s husband, Mark Steines, was a previous cover feature in Focus magazine.

jan2017.focustv.us

norberthood.com @authorjulie

focusmag.us 43

Kreative Kuisine

Executive Chef, KURSTEN KIZER, Craigs An American Restaurant

BY SUZAN BRITTAN INTERVIEW BY TAMBI SAFFRAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY DALEN MUSTER

T

here is nothing sexier than a man who can cook, unless it’s a man who’s a chef.

Executive Chef Kursten Kizer is the creative culinary genius behind the upscale comfort food at the acclaimed CRAIG’S: An American Restaurant in West Hollywood.

FOCUS TV’s Tambi Saffran sat with Kizer for the first time to have an on camera chat (with a very pricey RETNA original work of art floating in the background) to kick off his debut magazine cover article. He has East Coast on-point charm; good looks, is adorably shy in front of the lens, but not inside his kitchen. This master of the culinary arts constructs, studies and delivers some of the most delicious dishes served in Los Angeles.

What do Bradley Cooper, A Cheese Steak Sandwich, The Steelers and Kursten Kizer have in common? Yep. They are all from Pennsylvania. Kizer’s family is; “… big and we lived in the kitchen.” After working job after unfulfilling job; “… I kept finding myself in kitchens.” He was being pulled to his desire and love for cooking. His first kitchen starter job at fifteen years old was washing dishes; “…they let me burn toast and flip some eggs… ever since then I just loved cooking.” He was mentored with a successful five-year run in Big Sur at a sleepy Luxury hotel, The Post Ranch Inn creating dishes for the hotel guests

in their esteemed Sierra Mar restaurant. I’d get lost in the vast wine cellar alone.

Before Sierra Mar he was a golf course greens-keeper, any kind of Forklift driver, Pizza deliveryman, landscaper, a bartender and got his degree in Environmental Studies. Kizer decided to make an honest man out of himself and stay true to his passion, thus he enrolled in and graduated from the CIA in Hyde Park, New York. No, he was not gathering information for Homeland security. The CIA (Culinary Institute of America) gave him the expertise to gather recipes for all hometown favorites. Kizer’s simply titled “Mac ‘n’ Cheese” made with sinful ingredients will make you stop talking and roll your eyes back, but his famous “Meldman’s Honey Truffle (Southern-Fried) Chicken,” will get you kicked out of Weight Watchers for good and that’s not even including its sides of mashed potatoes and sautéed spinach.

Great, now I’m hungry.

If you’re a veggie lover, non-meat eater and dairy free kinda human, you will, as others have, send back the “Vegan Spaghetti Bolognese” made with love and vegan-meat, because it’s that good, tastes like the real thing and might give the people of PETA nightmares. Listen, Kizer (an admitted meat eater) is not the kind of chef who puts out just any old vegan Tofurkey meatless loaf with a side of tasteless rubber veggies. He’s a perfectionist; “…it’s really a challenge for me, but it (vegan dishes) has to be something everyone likes. I want non-vegans to enjoy it.” He’s sensitive to all people who have a variety of taste buds, food ethics and gluten issues. For myself, I’ll take those dang Baby Back Ribs, a side of Jalapeno Creamed Corn and end with the Chocolate Bread Pudding, please and thank you. Don’t worry vegan dessert eaters, Kizer has a brand

focusmag.us 45

Co-produced with LA Chefs

jan2017.focustv.us

Craig’s elite palates with his new ‘Everything Bagel Spice Bun’.

But his Sage Brown Butter and Parmesan Ricotta Gnocci will gnocci you out!

With about eight people besides him putting out plates from behind the stoves and in front of the ovens, his relatively small kitchen works like a well olive-oiled machine. Kizer’s day begins at noon, inspecting the freshly bought farmer’s markets produce, meat, fish and side accouterments for which the menu is designed around - changing it only four times yearly. Together, he and his counterpart and partner in culinary excellence, Craig Susser, co-owner of his self entitled, Craig’s - design the daily menu specials for the always packed venue.

Once the menu is set, Kursten Kizer performs his nightly executive chef magic with stealth-like speed and shuts it down around one in the morning. spanking new, hot off the frozen presses, handmade, cashewbased frozen dessert (by the pint) just for you. It comes in three scrumptious flavors: Melrose Mint, Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl and his namesake fave - Kursten’s Krunch with peanut butter and chocolate chips. Yumbo!

Tambi asked Kursten, “If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, who would it be and where?” He could have chosen anyone alive, like Queen Elizabeth, Robert DeNiro or one of the Los Angeles Rams… but no. The consummate, grassroots guy he is chose to dine with another chef. He explains, “Any chef really, in LA or anywhere just to get their perspective and what interests them and pick their brain.” I did read somewhere that he’d dine with Anthony Bourdain just to hear his travel tales. Kizer loves food, bottom line. He expresses, “My problem is, I love everything. My wife makes fun of me and says I eat everything. I don’t have a ‘go-to’ dish.”

He’s a happy dude if he eats tacos off a street taco truck or a great burger at some no-name burger joint. That’s right, he’s a no-fuss kinda guy and a self-proclaimed, “sucker” for a great cheeseburger. Still, his loyal customers and some very famous A-Lister patrons of Craig’s - are the opposite of no-fuss. Yes, it looks like they’re getting simple hometown comfort food, but Kizer takes those usual suspect dishes to the next level using skilled culinary techniques paired with unique quality ingredients. In fact, he makes a heck of a cheeseburger for

46 FOCUS | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 7

He has a lovely wife, who by the way, moved across the country with him when he got the Craig’s gig. What smart woman wouldn’t? He’s handsome and he can cook! His two kids are always waiting to tackle him when he finally wakes up. Kursten celebrates if he’s lucky enough to get five hours of shuteye.

Then, his day starts all over again with his seven month old waking him up and he gulping down a hefty mug of morning java. It’s all worth the effort. Kizer supports his family he loves, doing something he loves. Who can ask for more than that?

Maybe one day he’ll have his own restaurant. Until then, his insane Chocolate Pizza, which is everything and addictive table flatbread topped with butter and honey… should be illegal.

Craig’s: An American Restaurant 8826 Melrose Avenue West Hollywood CA craigs.la @chefkursten

focusmag.us 47

Locations 109 North La Cienega Blvd.

Beverly Hills, CA 90211 310 855-1059

2924 Beverly Glen Circle Los Angeles, CA 90077 424 832 3056

Inspiring Minds at Campbell Hall:

One Headmaster’s Mission to Support a Community of Inquiry and a Culture of Kindness Focus Correspondent MICHELLE GILLETTE interviews The Reverend Canon JULIAN BULL, Headmaster of Campbell Hall

C

ampbell Hall boasts an impressive 72-year history within the Los Angeles community, a vibrant 15-acre campus and a student body currently comprised of 1,120 students, grades K-12.

When touring the campus, one can sense an ease within the culture. It’s as if someone keeps the bar high enough for the learning environment to remain rigorous and challenging, yet they purposefully turn down the “needless pressure” knob a notch or two to get rid of some of the excess stress. It’s easy to see how that balance could benefit both students and parents alike.

That feeling of balance that one gets makes sense – Campbell Hall is a school known as a “community of inquiry,” valuing both heart and mind. It comes across as dichotomous in that it’s both progressive and traditional at once: progressive in its innovativeness, growth-mindset and modern understanding that kindness is the cornerstone of humanity, and yet traditional in its history as a leading college preparatory school, offering academic excellence with a respect for tradition. While Campbell Hall is a school with high expectations for personal achievement, it offers balance and lifestyle tools like secular mindfulness programs developed at UCLA’s Semel Institute (offered to parents and students alike), a secondary school later start-time in the morning to accommodate the circadian rhythms of growing teens, and a block schedule designed

to lessen the homework load. Campbell Hall has read the research and is not just talking the talk – it has pivoted accordingly in the best interest of the student body. While Campbell Hall is affiliated with the long-standing Episcopal Church and students partake in daily visits to chapel, an Episcopal identity focuses on embracing everyone.

Thus, Campbell Hall simultaneously offers a religiously and racially diverse population—one that embraces community, individuality and the diversity of the human experience.

Campbell Hall’s Diversity and Inclusion Statement says it beautifully:

“Campbell Hall is committed to fostering a community that honors the diversity of the human experience. We are devoted to cultivating and sustaining a safe environment that empowers individuals and groups to discover and celebrate their identity.

We believe race, ethnicity, religion, culture, national origin, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ability, and socioeconomic status to be examples of what constitutes diversity in our community. Through personal and corporate innovation, affirmation, and education, we strive to build and support an open and inclusive community dedicated to the principle of respect. Ultimately, we are ever mindful of our call to be decent, loving, and responsible human beings.”

Inspired to hear more, I sought out to meet with The Rev. Canon Julian Bull (Headmaster Bull) to see if we could discuss the Campbell Hall culture further. He is an affable, accessible Headmaster with an impressive educational background (Dartmouth ’82, a Master’s in Philosophy from Boston College and a Master’s in Divinity from Virginia Theological Seminary).

He speaks three languages and has a long history of leadership.

With this resume, one might expect him to have a more formal demeanor but he is as warm and affable as he is well-educated.

focusmag.us 51

CAMPBELL HALL PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

Athletics Chapel Mindfulness Parent Education Recording Arts Robotics Senior Seminars Service Learning & Outreach Speech & Debate STEAM Sustainability TV Production

Headmaster Bull was open to elaborating on Campbell Hall and what he calls its “culture of kindness.” We made an appointment to sit down to discuss the delicate balancing act he has mastered of successfully running an academic prep school while adhering to a commitment of kindness, character development, diversity and inclusion. During the interview we touched upon topics such as Campbell Hall’s: • distinctive mission to help develop students who are both happy and well-educated; • well-rounded academic programs designed to draw out the students’ sense of joy in what they do as well their unique sense of purpose as they define who they are as human beings; • commitment to following the research on how to keep the academic rigor but minimize the excess stress so that students can lead happier, healthier lives and learn more efficiently; • strong sense of community derived from the spiritual development program which encompasses character development topics like grit, kindness, altruism, empathy, and inspiring students to think about themselves in terms of the larger picture and how they can contribute to the world; • focus on honoring diversity and embracing differences in one another.

A tour of the school convinced me even more that this is not just rhetoric. The FOCUS TV crew and I were met with a friendly campus, engaged students, happy faces, passionate teachers, students connecting with one another and individuals in the flow of their genius – making music, creating art, studying intently, and being themselves.

jan2017.focustv.us

Tune into FOCUS TV to see Headmaster Bull discuss his experience at Campbell Hall and to join us as we tour the Campbell Hall campus.

campbellhall.org 52 FOCUS | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 7

"My son's Episcopal school features a beautiful Center for Spiritual Practice, an inclusive and sacred space for all faiths. Includes a rock prayer wall, a qibla towards Mecca, an altar with cross, Torah Ark, meditation room with Buddha, and serene areas for mindful reflection.

What a lesson for the current climate of this country where adults fear the differences, instead of embracing our children's similarities.�

- N.T., Parent at Campbell-Hall

focusmag.us 53

54 FOCUS | J A N U ARY 2 0 1 7

Noelle Reno

Entrepreneurial Shopping-Ista

BY SUZAN BRITTAN INTERVIEW BY TAMBI SAFFRAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY DALEN MUSTER jan2017.focustv.us

“I

have a head for business and a bod for sin.” So says Melanie Griffith with one of the most famous lines in movie history from Working Girl. If you don’t think such a woman exists with brains, beauty and biz sense, you’re wrong.

I’ve found one, but too late - NOELLE RENO is already taken, with a baby due in about five minutes. But, you can shop on her DIGITAL SHOPPING CHANNEL a; “…video shopping platform with cool products sourced by people who give a damn.” Yes, it’s a quote pulled directly from the home page of her innovative, www.digitalshoppingchannel.com, under “ABOUT US.” Her no nonsense approach to life and business savvy meld perfectly because of her extensive background with twenty plus years in the modeling, fashion and retail worlds.

When Reno was a young teenager she started what turned out to be a successful modeling career with Elite Models, traveled the world and ended up rooting a life in London. There, she turned out a lucrative clothing brand with some financial backing called, Degrees Of Freedom. The elite rich and celebrities alike wore her clothes, which also hung in major department stores. Reno sold her shares in 2008 to a Mellon; ya know one of the obscenely wealthy ones - as in Carnegie. She was a fashion journalist on FashionTV, but rose to fame as a co-star reality personality on, Ladies of London (entering its third season on Bravo TV, 2016).

She’s not shy saying that she likes making TV more than being on a TV show. That’s enough about the old news.

Ms. Reno sleeps, eats, plays and works from her home in Venice, California. Her home is essentially the DSC House where the videos for each product is shot, edited and released on her social media/shopping site. She has about ten full time people who help her find products, an assistant buyer who is out of London and the mega-viewed YouTubers who pick the merchandise they feel strongly discussing and using for their audience.

What do you get when you mix your favorite video channel bloggers with current products for body, mind, house and soul?

You guessed it, DIGITAL SHOPPING CHANNEL, aka. DSC is the one stop shop for all things ‘kewl’ and super trending. This concept was concocted by Reno’s intuition; “… I knew video would become ubiquitous with the Internet a few years back.”

She “timed it well” indeed. Using “influencers” from YouTube’s most viewed channels for specific brands, items and genres, she put together DSC to reach a variety of consumers. If you’re a new parent, cat lover, tech-geek, vegan or vegetarian, cook, hobbyist, make-up maven, fitness freak, fashionista or body fragrance hoarder… you have clicked on the right website. This site covers all interests; whether it’s cooking Chrissy Teigen’s famous Lamp Chops recipe with Billboard Host, Tetris Kelly in “The Rock One Pot”, by Starfit or Beauty Expert/Vegan, Kimbyr Leigha showing you the latest vegan lifestyle beauty product like the Pistachio

Mint Masque, by YUM Skincare. Between all of the Video Bloggers and Video Hosts, they have millions of viewers tuning in to hear their opinions while demonstrating the merchandise for purchase. Reno has the top influencers in all areas for DSC. I’m now obsessed with this site. I can learn about and buy: Skinny Dip London cat eared headphones, RevitaLash Lengthening Mascara and make my own scented bath salts to store in a gorg-ie jumbo jar for sale. DSC informs you; “Each order is hand packed by our team” and “packaged with love.” And yes, all purchases are shipped gratis in the U.S.A. This just feels right and I want to visit the DSC House. BUT WAIT… Reno’s site clearly states; “We are the only shopping channel for Millennials.”

(A person reaching young adulthood near the year 2000) Is this also the first ‘ageist’ site? Keep Calm and Shop On… absolutely not. Anyone can shop on this site, and it’s a great way to shop for GenY-er’s in your life as I can see how its hosts and items are geared toward that demo. Still, I dare you to try and stop me from buying the MoYou London Nail Art Kits!

Noelle Reno moves fast. She’s already talking about introducing the DSC new distribution partners by the end of 2016 with the launch of bigger brand names, selling products from London, using recognizable guest appearances and famous faces for WEARDSC.com. There is cross access from DSC social media platforms: INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/wearedsc TWITTER: twitter.com/wearedsc FACEBOOK: facebook.com/wearedsc, which are also where Reno surfs and finds new and innovative products to sell on her DSC/WEAREDSC retail sites. Currently she sells between sixty and seventy brands. All the short form videos live online and are updated weekly and activity driven.

The site also hosts live streaming casts and Facebook Live Stream. She continues, “We are a mobile first Millennial shopping experience. There’s always interaction.” When asked if she will participate by being in the V-loggers clips she quipped; “No, I’m not in any of the videos; I’m too old.” – gasp. If she’s too old, then I’m Grandma Moses… and I ain’t Grandma Moses, kitten. Who do you think these almost adults get their plastic cheddar from?

Anyway… I digress. Why am I fighting it? Reno is obviously doing many things right to have garnered the success she earned.

The Millennial market, like it or not is HOT and they have a popular perspective and voice. When Reno has her baby soon, I’m sure that baby boy, (yes a boy), will be rockin’ the latest garb, busy with the coolest earth friendly toys and eating the healthiest baby food recipes she grabs from her online video hosts and massive hit site, the DIGITAL SHOPPING CHANNEL.

digitalshoppingchannel.com focusmag.us 55

Advertise

HOME DECOR / LUXURY LIFESTYLE/REAL ESTATE – VISIBILITY WITH HIGH NET WORTH AUDIENCE – QUALITY CONTENT (CURATED AND UNIQUE) – LUXURY/TECH/LIFESTYLE PRODUCT REVIEWS – SPOTLIGHT ON LOCAL EMERGING TALENT – A FOCUSED VIEW OF THE LA SCENE

56 FOCUS | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 7

LA /HOME SHOWCASES ART, CULTURE, INTERIOR DESIGN, PRODUCT DESIGN, ARCHITECTURE AND INSPIRATIONAL HOME TOURS IN LOS ANGELES. HELLO@LAHOMEMAG.COM LAHOMEMAG.COM/ADVERTISE

lahomemag.com/theagency

lahomemag.com/moby

lahomemag.com/meganweaver

Subscribe 4 DIGITAL EDITIONS - $8 4 PRINTED ISSUES - $20 LAHOMEMAG.COM/SUBSCRIPTION AVAILABLE ONLINE AND ON NEWSSTANDS, WHOLE FOODS, SPROUTS, BARNES & NOBLE, PHARMACA AND INDEPENDENDENT BOOKSHOPS.

focusmag.us 57

focusmag.us/getfocus Ceremony Meditation 417 Rose Ave, Venice The Hall Center 406 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica Crown Diva Boutique 1247 Lincoln Blvd, Santa Monica Banc Of California 2635 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica Cure Spa 2247 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu Base Color Bar 11677 San Vicente Blvd, Brentwood Banc of California 2528 San Vicente Blvd, Brentwood Marck’s Newsstand 11737 San Vicente Blvd, Brentwood One West Bank 2932 Beverly Glen Circle, Bel Air The Face Bar 9020 Beverly Blvd, West Hollywood

Buy Online: focusmag.us/shop/magazine

60 FOCUS | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 7

Delivering Ingredients with Intent –

The Ranch Daily

BY FOCUS TRAVEL EDITOR WENDY BROKAW KRETCHMER

those living in Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego and Santa Barbara.

Would the food taste as good delivered as it tasted right out of the kitchen at The Ranch?? I had to find out for myself. I signed myself up for a 3-day delivery, however, there are also 1, 5 and 20+ day delivery options.

The food is prepared within 24 hours of delivery and each morning a cooler was waiting for me by the front door. Opening the bag each day was like unwrapping a ou no longer have to enroll in the exclusive Ranch present...I was excited to see what I would be eating for the day. I am a girl that really appreciates presentation!!!

Malibu and Ranch 4.0’s health and wellness retreats to have access to all the healthy, delicious I loved the way each meal was presented and every meal food you get while being a guest there. The Ranch Daily I had was sublime. Most meals come ready to eat and a few require simple heating. I’m so intrigued at how they can now arrive on your doorstep.

Trying to eat healthy and stay fit is a daily hassle. And make these meals that are dairy-free, gluten-free, nonGMO and vegan, inventive, delicious and sustainable for if you are trying to shed a few pounds, it’s that much harder. With a busy LA lifestyle, and in need of a reboot delivery. They have it mastered! but with no time to invest in this daunting process, look My daily meal plan consisted of breakfast, lunch, dinner, a side no further! The Ranch Daily offers a very good solution salad and 2 snacks (1 savory, 1 sweet) averaging around 1750 with their home delivery of delicious, organic plantcalories daily. But you can also order meal plans that are around 1400 calories daily. based meals that are so good, they could turn a meateater like me into a very happy vegetarian.

Here is a look at my daily food diary: What sets this food delivery service apart from the others? It was born from the transformational wellness DAY 1 Breakfast: program at the exclusive Ranch Malibu. Whether or Spinach and Cheese Quiche not you have been fortunate enough to go The Ranch - Very dense, rich, flavorful, filling - a hint of spice - really really Malibu and be part of their program, you can still good!! Full of flavor and texture. have the opportunity to experience their healthy and Lunch: nutritious regimen at home. I know firsthand how Black Bean Rice Burrito Bowl amazing the food program is after spending a few days - Very healthy portion of creamy delicious guacamole and bean/ at The Ranch earlier this year. I was so worried that I rice mash up - filled me up.

Dinner: would be miserable on a full vegetarian diet, but I was pleasantly surprised. Beyond the extraordinary taste, the Mushrooms and Scallions Pizza diet is packed with protein, fiber, complex carbohydrates, -So good and so filling. I don’t even like mushrooms! It was a perfectly satisfying day and I didn’t feel hungry at all. vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids. I felt spoiled Snacks: with delicious and nutritious food everyday I was there. Zucchini Chips, Almond Butter Balls Imagine my delight in finding out that the cuisine I -The chips were thin and crisp like eating potato chips. The experienced at The Ranch Malibu’s health and wellness decadent almond butter balls were the surprise hit of the day. retreat is now being made available for daily delivery for These were the perfect pick-me-ups throughout the day. YUM!

Y

focusmag.us 61

Above: Black Bean Rice Burrito Bowl, Mushrooms and Scallions Pizza.

Center: Thai Stir-Fry, White Bean Salad-In-A-Jar Right: Collard Dolmades with Tzatzki Sauce and Moroccan Carrots, Fruit Rolls

DAY 2 Breakfast: Cinnamon Chia Porridge and Berries - I did everything in my power to make this chia pudding last as long as possible. There was a hint of cinnamon with bursts of real berries. Love the feeling of knowing I am eating something that tastes sinful, but is healthy.

Lunch: White Bean Salad-In-A-Jar with Lemon Dressing - Today’s lunch salad was just enough! The lovely presentation of a salad in a jar added to my enjoyment.

Dinner: Thai Stir-Fry - This was a savory and sweet delight and was super filling with a combo of stir-fry veggies mixed with brown rice pad thai noodles.

Snacks: The Ranch Energy Bites, and Hummus with Seasonal Vegetables - Who could forget the energy bites we got back at The Ranch!

You have the illusion you are eating a brownie, but these bitesized treats are actually packed with cacao and almonds for an energy boost.

DAY 3 Breakfast: Strawberry Coconut Yogurt Parfait - Not your typical parfait. I actually thought I was having dessert for breakfast and once again I loved the presentation of my breakfast in a glass jar.

Lunch: Chickpea and Kale Salad 62 FOCUS | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 7

- This took me back to The Ranch where I remember eating this salad. Loved it then and now! The ranch knows how to make kale taste sooo good!

Dinner: Collard Dolmades with Tzatzki Sauce and Moroccan Carrots - I was a little tentative at first staring at a collard greens wrap with no idea what was inside. However, inside was a delicious greek tasting filling mixture of quinoa pilaf, veggies and herbs.

Snacks: Toasted Seed Mix, Fruit Rolls - The fruit rolls were a throwback to my childhood! How fun to partake in the healthy grown up version! The seed mix was toasted and seasoned to perfection!

And that’s it, my 3 days with The Ranch Daily and I feel better, lighter and rejuvenated! I am reminded what portion control looks like.

I reminded I don’t have to over-eat to feel satisfied. I’m reminded that I feel so good when I’m eating clean.

I’m reminded that I could actually go vegan! And finally, I am reminded that I must sign up for either a stay at The Ranch or more meal delivery real soon!

For all the details and to set up delivery: theranchdaily.com

The Ranch Daily theranchdaily.com

focusmag.us 63

64 FOCUS | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 7

Dripping in Luxury DL&Co. Candle Guru JAN ROSEN - Home accessories never looked, or smelled so fabulous!

DL&C

o. is a luxury candle company founded in 2001 which has become a worldwide brand that can be found in Saks, Neimans, Barneys, Selfridges and Harrods and many other upscale stores around the world.

My original business was first as an artist and art teacher, I then entered the Garment industry which was the beginning of my travels into Asia and where I learned the import business. When I was retired I was introduced to a newly formed company in which I became the financial backer for the founder of the company, Douglas Little.

He has since moved on and now I am the creative force behind DL&Co. As an artist myself I love to develop new and exciting products and traveling the world for concepts, colors, fragrances all that make up a great product which we strive to offer to our customers.

D.L. & Co. was born of the desire to bring objects of opulence and beauty to those who yearn for the uncommon and the exquisite. Every item we design is intended to unfold like a love letter, each painstaking detail revealing a procession of small delights. Like the purveyors of curious goods in previous ages, every item we create is intended to stir and enthrall each and every one of the senses, from the sleek feel of the carefully-selected silk ribbons to the intoxicating atmospheres of the handmade fragrances. Our love of rare botanica, arcane curiosities and long-forgotten sensations compel us to offer these modern heirlooms. In this age of aesthetic tedium and mass production, we wish to provide an alternative for those who find the banality of today’s “products� to be an insult to their intelligence, dignity and good taste. Please join us as we turn the mundane into the magnificent.

DL & Co. dlcompany.com focusmag.us 65

Photo: Tommy Wu/Vanichicom

66 FOCUS | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 7

Charles & Company

BY LAURA GERSON

I

t was a perfect day in Malibu. Warm with a breeze blowing. We had just wrapped an outdoor dance class to raise money and awareness for Phase One Foundation and now we were sending everyone to Maxfield’s for a refreshing iced tea. Lawrence Charles, founder of Charles & Company was serving.

From the design of the cart, to the glasses he used, his dapper attire and genuine smile, down to the notes of the tea that he blends, not a detail was missed. A trained industrial designer, Lawrence is careful in every aspect of his work. To him the details are what make the difference and he’s right.

He’s a striking figure, tall and handsome. Features that served him well as a former Tommy Hilfiger model. But it's the warmth that emanates from Lawrence, his presence that’s really the draw. For several years at MomAngeles we have invited Lawrence to bring his tea experience to our parties and charity events knowing that he is always the icing on the cake. His exquisite tea, and the man who blends it, are always just what the ladies ordered.

Wherever Lawrence goes he makes new friends. I am always marveling at how he ends up sharing his tea with celebrities and debutantes, but I’m never surprised. Everyone loves Lawrence. He is a genuinely caring sou. He does charity work for women’s and children’s causes and he always steps-up to support something meaningful. Recently Focus Magazine joined me at a British Tea hosted by actress Victoria Summer featuring Charles & Company tea. [ Video Highlights: http://focusmag.us/tv/teencancer/ ] It was a fundraiser for Teen Cancer America plus a launch for her new feature film, “Game of Aces”. Jeremy Piven, Chris Klein and Terrell Owens were among the guests. Lawrence was holding court on the back lawn when we arrived, sharing his philosophy of British tea culture and its role in today’s society, with a camera crew documenting the event. You see, for Lawrence, the art of tea is about community. It’s about taking a moment to set aside our iPhones and talk to each other mindfully, while enjoying something magical, an elixir of Chai or Earl Grey with Coconut. Lawrence wants us to connect with each other. He does this through his tea, and his calm, welcoming demeanor at every event.

And the tea...oh, the tea, It is delicious. I have been hooked on his custom loose-leaf blends ever since we met in the Palisades Farmers Market oh so many years ago and I’ve been fortunate to call Lawrence my friend since that day. He always bring the magic.

About Lawrence Charles: Recently called “a celebrity events mastermind”, Lawrence Charles cut his teeth while working as a model and attending the infamous Met Gala held annually in New York City, which hosts the who’s who of celebrities. From there, Lawrence began working behind the scenes on the team that constructed the largest conference in the world for women, The California Women’s Conference, working side by side with

luminaries such as Ken Kragen, known for Hands Across America and We Are the World. While working as a model for Tommy Hilfiger in New York City, Lawrence discovered his passion for tea. After relocating to Los Angeles, he then founded Charles & Company. In his own words: Charles & Company Tea brings to life the experiences of a traditional British Tea. the company was started to share the comfort, health, serenity, and togetherness that we experience while drinking tea. We are pleased to provide the very best in hand-selected organic and kosher teas from pre-eminent tea plantations around the world. Lawrence quickly became known for his work with Celebrity Chef Helene Henderson and the Malibu Farm Farm Dinners, which was ranked #1 in Angeleno Magazine, and #2 in Vogue’s “Must Haves”. Charles & Company has since worked with the James Beard Foundation’s Celebrity Chef Tour, British Polo Day, Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation, and has served British Royals and celebrities alike.

About Charles & Company Tea: Charles & Company is a luxury organic and kosher tea brand that transcends the ordinary by taking a traditional British approach, with a bit of an American twist. Our teas are blended with essential oils, exotic spices, and natural flavors, infused with hints of floral and fruity notes. Drinking Charles & Company Tea elevates and stimulates the palate in surprising and refreshing ways. The only American tea brand associated with British Royalty, to our customers, Charles & Company is the Ralph Lauren® of Tea.

Charles & Company

cnctea.com focusevents.us

focusmag.us 67

68 FOCUS | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 7

focusmag.us 69

Superior Women Of Soupure Founders VIVIENNE VELLA and ANGELA BLATTEIS OF SOUPURE talk soup and more with FocusTV

BY SUZAN BRITTAN INTERVIEW BY DINA MANZO

W

hy wait until you have a terrible cold, the flu or feeling under the weather to grab some soup? This is old thinking! Are there still Grandma’s around that take the time to throw a chicken into a pot (bones and all) with fresh veggies and unconditional love until it boils for days into that magical healing remedy? I wish. We have become a grab-n-go society. Lunch – on the run – Dinner on the go – Soup in a plastic container with a side of Saltine crackers at your desk kinda world.

Okay, you get my point. But as busy as we are, most of us want to grab something full of health, AND full of flavor. Many of us use protein shakes and bars and call it a day. Your body is probably starving for some real veggies and some real nutrients! I have your cure! Instant Gratification Society, meet SOUPURE. SOUPURE meet Instant Gratification Society. Now that we’re all friends, let’s dig deeper into the SOUPURE mission.

70 FOCUS | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 7

Owners, Vivienne Vella and Angela Blatteis understood there was a desire to satiate the needs and bellies of themselves and their families. Where was the ‘pure’ soup? There wasn’t a bowl of soup around to be found that didn’t include creams, ridiculous amounts of sodium, and fat, empty veggies and did I already mention salt? These lovers of soup ladies started to ask questions at restaurants, deli’s and grocery stores about the contents in the soups and broths they were making for the masses. Turns out – their soups were full of it… no healthy ingredients I mean. The “healthy soups” used corn, sugar, extracts, MSG, was non-GMO and infused with tons of dairy products. So, how do you make a soup that doesn’t have all the good-bad stuff, is loaded with nutrition, and taste great?

FOCUS TV’s Dina Manzo sat with these soup-enistas and asked what drove them to start SOUPURE. For Angela, it was her three active, sports enthusiastic kids. She decided to abandon her Private Equity career and devote her time and energy into creating the healthiest soups you could find in today’s market for her family. However, tasty and healthy had to get married

or this wasn’t going to work. Vivienne, a 7-year vegetarian, also with three kids, is always concerned about how food and the environment impact her kids health and vice-versa. She considered herself “a big juicer” and had been on and off using pressed juice cleanses for years. These types of cleanses always left her depleted, not fortified and with low energy. She explains, “Cleansing with pressed juices isn’t a meal… fiber brings the nutrient profile to your body.” Vivienne recognized that juicing is a lifestyle that needed a new perspective; “Give people real food (soup) in a bottle… takes care of that on-the-go issue.”

Dina herself is quite the holistic beauty and nutritional guru. She makes a point to do a liver and kidney cleanse with a light menu of soup a few times yearly. Dina agrees with the co-owners that it’s difficult to find a healthy salt free soup at all - let alone tasty.

I know we can all agree no matter how you live, eat or breathe, your insides always show on your outside. This rang true with Vivienne who visited her dermatologist three months ago. He said to her, “You’re a vegetarian aren’t you?” Instead of the praise and accolades she thought he’d give her and a pat on the back, he informed her, “Your body is crying out for protein.” This put Vivienne the Vegetarian on the path to adding their SOUPURE homemade bone broths to her diet along with her already healthy meals. Bone broths are made by boiling chicken bones or beef bones (sometimes extracting the marrow) between 4 to 24 hours. She supplemented with bone broth daily for three months straight and then returned to her dermatologist. After examining her skin; he was shocked; “You’re doing something different; are you not vegetarian anymore?” She exclaims, “It was so obvious!

To make collagen you need collagen – proteins. Collagen supports collagen. It’s good for your skin, your hair, your nails, your bones!”

SOUPURE launched in 2015 and has been successful, not just because it’s unique, but because it started with wholesome, pure intent. If you want to cleanse for a day, three days or more with just their nutrient packed soups, they have it all mapped out for you with balanced instructions, order and SoupScription delivery (depending where you live). For instance, SOUPURE’S “HEAL” is packed with restorative ingredients, which “supercharges every cell of your body.” This soupy elixir detoxes, energizes and promotes weight loss. Its “Tender Loving Greens”

mixture is nutrient rich and fortified with anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids – this could be, “… the world’s most perfect food.”

All of the bottled soups are vegan except for their yummy “Energize” smoothie, and their Bone Broths. Customers verbally certified; “…the best bone broth hands down they’ve ever tasted,” boasts Vivienne. Their “VIBRANT” bright orange soup so named, includes garlic, tomatoes, basil and Bay leaf. The serving “packs one powerful punch of nutrition”. This fiber filled bottle makes your skin glow, builds healthy hearts and bones… shove over Popeye… you’ve met your spinach match. You could call it a Tomato Soup on steroids… But, that would defeat its 100% natural and organic missive.

Want more soup-er info? Check out their soup-erb site – http:// soupure.com You can visit their Brentwood store or order soup to go, they ship nationwide! Whether you want to drink it as a cleanse, serve it to your family or mix into yummy dishes – SOUPURE is versatile and always fresh. So, if you don’t happen to have Bubbe around taking hours to make you a delish vat of her famous chicken soup cuz she’s busy playing Mahjong with her weekly gals group, well – you’re in luck - get it faster and easier at SOUPURE (sans Grandma’s Jewish guilt).

jan2017.focustv.us

SOUPURE at Brentwood Town Center 13050 San Vicente Blvd, CA 90049 soupure.com

focusmag.us 71

72 FOCUS | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 7

Shuhari Matcha Cafe The first and only authentic Japanese green tea café arrives in Venice

S

HUHARI Matcha Café’s menu delivers a twenty-first century spin on classic flavors with craveable offerings ranging from matcha green teas, lattes, smoothies and shakes, to grab-andgo Japanese fare and sweets. Our founder has been in the business of bringing green tea to the U.S. for over 30 years. As one of the pioneers in bringing quality, authentic Japanese green tea to the U.S., SHUHARI’s parent company, Maeda-en [http://maeda-en. com/], has been an industry trailblazer since its founding. In addition to its green tea distribution operation, Maeda-en was the first to develop and introduce matcha ice cream to American consumers. Our partners include the Cool Japan Fund [www.cjfund.co.jp/en], a joint public-private fund with a mission to bring you the best in Japanese culture, cuisine, art, fashion and content.

1522 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice shuharicafe.com focusmag.us 73

FOCUS ON: CALIFORNIA’S BEST BOUTIQUE HOTELS

Shade Manhattan Beach

You don’t have to drive to far to enjoy downtown Manhattan Beach’s only luxury boutique hotel

BY WENDY BROKAW KRETCHMER

travel.focustv.us

74 FOCUS | J A N U ARY 2 0 1 7

M

y friend and I wanted to do a special motherdaughter trip together to celebrate our daughter’s Sweet 16 birthdays...the question was, where to go? Laguna Beach, Santa Barbara, Palm Springs...?? All lovely of course, however, we wanted to try something new, but not outside the bounds of Southern Cali. I thought, what about Manhattan Beach?

I like the idea that you don’t have to travel far to feel like you’re on vacation. The South Bay is so so close, yet wildly unexplored and overlooked as a travel destination by so many of us Angelinos, probably because it’s considered a little too close to home. Manhattan Beach is the perfect staycation getaway if you are looking for a mix of a hip, bustling beach city, trendy shops, and surprisingly, a long list of foodie-pleasing eateries. Lucky for me, my idea was well received. I did my research and discovered the only luxury boutique hotel in the area, Shade Manhattan Beach. Let’s just start with the location, it’s perfection! It’s located 2 short blocks from the beach

and pier in a square that has adorable stores and great cafés and restaurants like Nicks, Le Pain Quotidien, and Lemonade to name a few. You can walk absolutely everywhere! Noteworthy hotel amenities include: a rooftop jacuzzi pool, free beach cruiser bikes, a town car with driver for local jaunts (check in advance), beach towels, beach chairs & umbrellas, bottled water, and an in-room coffee maker and fridge. The rooms are modern and attractive, but THE BEDS are about the most comfortable thing EVER thanks to Tempurpedic mattresses and pillows and the high thread count of the bed linens! You might not want to get out of bed...but you should because there is way too much fun to be had and good food to be eaten!

to Rock’n’ Fish for brunch. A few blocks from Shade and steps from the pier, the menu is filled with comfort food classics. The crab cakes take first place on the list of best ever! Everything tasted fresh and delicious! We not only enjoyed the food, but we had a front row seat on the patio to the best people watching!

For dinner, we ate at The Strand House, a Manhattan Beach staple for fine dining. With floor to ceiling glass windows, the beauty of the incredibly scenic ocean views match in excellence their exquisite food and service. Highlights for us were their cocktails, charcuterie + cheese selection, branzino, and their signature donut plate for dessert!

This restaurant is a MUST when visiting Manhattan Beach.

How is it that everyone seems so fit despite all the great food in Manhattan Beach and, trust me, we barely scratched the surface.

Well, it’s probably balanced by all the great outdoor activities and sports including: biking, walking and jogging on The Strand, (the beachside path that stretches from Torrance to Palos Verdes), beach volleyball, surfing, body surfing, fishing, sunbathing and more. And I consider shopping a sport, so here a few shops that are worth a stop: The Beehive, e*clat, Margaret O’Leary, Waterleaf, Manhattan Denim, Blvd., Marine Layer, and Pages Bookstore.

With so much to see, do and eat, you can easily retreat back to the serenity of Shade. I wouldn’t hesitate to come back again and again. But, my next staycation getaway will be to check out Shade’s brand new boutique hotel property, Shade Redondo Beach. This is the first and only luxury hotel in Aside from its stellar location, one of the best perks of staying Redondo Beach! Once again, the Shade brand has nailed it with at Shade, is that you don’t even have to leave the hotel to find location. It is situated in the heart of the South Bay, overlooking world class cuisine. Zinc Restaurant, with Chef Ashley Oates at King Harbor Marina and the beautiful Pacific ocean. I was the helm, is nestled within the hotel’s lobby and offers breakfast, fortunate to have a tour while it was still under construction lunch or dinner. I swear we could have eaten every single and I can promise you the hotel and event spaces, including meal here. For breakfast, I fell in love with their Buddah Bowl a rooftop space with VIEWS, are magnificent. I’ll share that -- a yummy healthy mixture of goodness: vanilla chia yogurt, experience with you soon! Can’t wait! berries, raw honey and beautiful flowers... it’s literally edible art. The lobster benedict was magnificent too. Other noteable entrees for lunch and dinner were the Paella and skinny sashimi salad...to die for!

We decided we should venture outside of our little oasis at Shade and explore the area. The gracious front desk staff gave us a few restaurant suggestions that didn’t fail us. We headed

shadehotel.com

focusmag.us 75

FOCUS ON: CALIFORNIA’S BEST BOUTIQUE HOTELS

Kona Kai in San Diego Canine-Friendly Boutique Hotel

BY WENDY BROKAW KRETCHMER

76 FOCUS | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 7

A

re you sad about leaving Fido home for another family vacation? Well, cancel the dog sitter, and pack your furry loved one’s food and treats, and put Kona Kai Resort and Spa into Waze…Your whole family is just a short drive away from a lovely getaway. Located at the tip of San Diego’s Shelter Island, this boutique hotel is the perfect answer to a complete family escape. It has a prime location, minutes to downtown San Diego, The Zoo, and Seaworld. This waterfront property, with breathtaking Kona Kai Marina and San Diego Bay views, has an elegant coastal vibe with so much to offer the WHOLE family. Resort amenities and activities include: state of the art fitness center, paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, sailing, its own private beach and even bonfires. Be sure to reserve time for yourself to be pampered at their Spa Terre, where “Exotic Indonesian, Fijian, and Thai spa experiences and rituals are customdesigned to replace the weight of the world with the feeling of utter relaxation and renewal.” The center of this hotel is the Hawaiian inspired pool area with a tiki style bar and rentable cabana huts. You can order lunch by the pool or stroll into Vessel Restaurant which has fresh and delicious locally sourced cuisine. Just across the street is Shoreline Park, the most beautiful spot to walk your dog and enjoy the lovely bay breeze and panoramic views -- this might possibly be your new favorite place to walk and socialize your dog, and you’ll get extra doggie kisses for not leaving Fido at home!

Here is some helpful information if you have plans to visit with Fido or Spot: · 25 lbs or less · One pet per room · $50 per night · $100 non-refundable cleaning fee

Kona Kai resortkonakai.com

“My click through rate on print ads is approximately 100%.”

– Barry Sullivan, CNBC

ADVERTISE IN FOCUS MAGAZINE Transparent pricing. No long term commitments, and no pressure. To reserve a space, email: sales@focusmag.us

focusmag.us 77

Giving Back: How To Be A Kind Traveler

BY JESSICA BLOTTER

D

eep into the unpaved back roads of the humid Belizean jungle, I was on a two-hour trek on an old, rusty school bus heading to the historic sites of the Mayan ruins.

As a writer and reporter contributing to a variety of media outlets, I’ve been fortunate to experience not only some of the world’s more polished hotels but also a city’s cultural authenticity often found on the back roads.

But this was different.

Mile after mile, village after village – just off the road stood the most heartbreaking of poverty-stricken communities: families lived in shacks near polluted swamps, women laundered clothes in dirty waters, and emaciated dogs wandered the streets.

Staring from the window, the bus had never been so quiet. How could we get excited about visiting the local tourist attractions and ignore the devastation around us?

Our bus stopped at a local convenience store – rib-protruding dogs approached us, begging for food with eyes of despair.

We made a choice to help.

As animal rescue volunteers and advocates back in the U.S., it was nearly impossible for us not to help in some way. my partner and I simply bought dry dog food and scattered it on the ground to feed the dogs.

Unintentionally, we inspired everyone else on the bus to do the same. More and more dogs came out of nowhere to join in the feeding. It was a scene.

We marveled at how easy it was to inspire others to do good

78 FOCUS | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 7

– they just needed a catalyst. The other thing we observed is how the sentiment on the bus changed completely – a sense of joy and happiness filled the air knowing that we made things better in some small way.

While we didn’t save the world that day, we realized the importance of simply doing something rather than turning a blind eye and ignoring the cry for help. The small collective actions aimed for good could ultimately create meaningful change – not to mention, create expressive experiences that feed the soul in a deep way.

And while many of you may have experienced something similar when you’ve traveled -- you don’t need to travel far to experience despair -- just a few miles away right here in downtown Los Angeles, just one block away from the trendy Ace Hotel, lives the country’s largest homeless population on Skid Row. When we discovered that the love of travel can’t be separated from the state of the world, the longing to ‘do more than travel’ stayed with us for a long time as we explored how we could use our entrepreneurial skills and heart for a better world to create a way for travelers to easily make a difference.

After four years of research, development, and faith, surrounded by a community of people who believed in our mission, KindTraveler.com was born into the world in August 2016, as the answer to that question.

As a Public Benefit Corporation, Kind Traveler is the first ‘Give + Get’ hotel booking platform that empowers travelers to become a force for good that benefits local + global communities, the environment, and animals. Travelers give a minimum of a $10-dollar donation per night to a local or global charity of choice; as a reward

for their donation, exclusive rates are unlocked to book directly with today’s greatest hotels and unique properties. 100% of the donations raised on the Kind Traveler platform are given to charity.

The potential for positive global impact is tremendous when you consider the financial power of the seven-trillion-dollar travel industry. Last year alone more than one billion trips were taken. That’s 1 billion opportunities for travelers to become a force for good.

On a local level, when a hotel joins the platform, Kind Traveler helps the hotel facilitate an alliance with a local charity. This gives the traveler the ability to address hyperlocal issues through its network of local charities. For example, in Los Angeles, you can donate a min. of $10 dollars per night to The Boys & Girls Club of Hollywood and as reward, it will an unlock an exclusive rate with The Hollywood Roosevelt (or any Kind Hotel on the platform). In Orange County, you can help support local marine life efforts with Pacific Marine Mammal Center and unlock rates at the new Pasea Hotel in Huntington Beach. Who doesn’t love a win-win?

On a global level, travelers may also choose to give back to any of our global charities divided amongst 10 core causes including animal welfare, the environment, disaster relief, children, education, health, and more. Some of our global charities include The Salvation Army USA, Make-A-Wish, Animal Defenders International, Arbor Day Foundation, World Food Program USA, and The Keep A Breast Foundation.

Kind Traveler’s goals are purposefully aligned with the United Nation’s Global Goals for sustainable development: preventing poverty & hunger, protecting the planet, and promoting wellbeing for individuals and animals.

Kind Travelers can now book hotels in New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Miami, Palm Springs, Orange County, and several destinations throughout Mexico and the Caribbean, with more destinations to come.

How will you inspire kindness this holiday season?

Focus LA

The App

Jessica Blotter is the CEO & Co-Founder of Kind Traveler, a TEDx speaker, journalist, and an advocate for the greater good. Discover where kindness can take you and insights on what it means to travel kindly by visiting KindTraveler.com.

whatsgood.focustv.us

KindTraveler.com @TravelKindly

focusmag.us 79

80 FOCUS | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 7

2016 Miss Malibu/Beverly Hills Pageant

LA Music Awards http://focusmag.us/tv/lama

http://focusmag.us/tv/miss2016

A Wedding To Remember

Cardio Barre 2nd Anniversary

http://focusmag.us/tv/wedding

http://focusmag.us/tv/cardiobarre

WE CAN COVER YOUR PARTY, EVENT OR LAUNCH OPENING. EMAIL US WITH DETAILS OF YOUR EVENT

events@focusmag.us

EVENTS

focusevents.us B E L A I R | B E V E R LY H I L L S | B R E N T W O O D | W E S T H O L LY W O O D | S A N TA M O N I C A

focusmag.us 81

82 FOCUS | J A N U ARY 2 0 1 7

#lovefocus

focusmag.us 83

What’s On Focus TV Focus TV

The original TV channel for interviews with entrepreneurs and leading figures in our community. focustv.us

What’s Good

What’s Good is a weekly show co-hosted by Amy Paffrath and Justin Walter. Each week, we talk about feel good news stories, positive vibes, world changers and Good Samaritans. whatsgood.focustv.us

84 FOCUS | J A N U ARY 2 0 1 7

Empowerista

Alex Wehrley brings you #Empowerista, featuring, a series of inspiring conversations with women in our local community. empowerista.focustv.us

Fearless Females

Janet Gunn is the host of our new series featuring passionate and fearless females. ff.focustv.us

Focus Events

Magazine and video coverage of store openings, product launches, red carpet events and charity events. www.focusevents.us

LA Chefs

LA Chefs chronicles the daily life of some of the best Chefs around LA. Hosted by Tambi Saffran. lachefs.focustv.

The Hook Up

The Hook Up provides useful, fun relationship advice from host Stephanie Gray. thehookup.focustv.us

Life In 60

Life In 60 hosted by Wendy Brokaw Kretchmer, knows that everyone has a story and our challenge is to tell that story in just sixty seconds. lifein60.focustv.us

focusmag.us 85

Happenings HOLLYWOOD BAG LADIES LUNCHEON 18 November, Beverly Hills The 2016 Hollywood Bag Ladies Luncheon for the benefit of Lupus LA honoring Nicole Fogel, Shelia Milstein, Joan Robbins and Terri Seymour.

Focus Events is on the black carpet with host Tambi Saffran at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. lupusla.focustv.us

lupusla.focustv.us

86 FOCUS | J A N U ARY 2 0 1 7

Happenings 6th ANNUAL SHOP FOR SUCCESS 17 November, Beverly Hills

The 6th Annual Shop For Success #yearofthewoman event held in Beverly Hills. The Ultimate 4-Day Designer Shopping Celebration Where LA’s Most Stylish Can Update Their Wardrobe While Helping the Women of Los Angeles Get Back to Work! shopforsuccessla.com

focustv.us/shopforsuccess

focusmag.us 87

Happenings GIRLTALK NETWORK FALL CONNECT + INSPIRE EVENT 2 October, Tiato, Santa Monica Red Carpet hosted by Alex Wehrley, Founder #Empowerista. For the Benefit of She Lift Founded by Sarah Herron. girltalknetwork.org

www.focusevents.us

88 FOCUS | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 7

Happenings 16TH ANNUAL ZIMMER CHILDREN’S MUSEUM DISCOVERY AWARDS 15 November, Skirball Center

The 16th Annual Zimmer Children’s Museum Discovery Awards Dinner that took place at The Skirball Cultural Center. Hosted

by Terrence Jenkins, with presenters Dr. Phil McGraw, and Scooter Braun, with notable attendees such as Katharine McPhee and Amanda Righetti, the dinner honored Vanessa and Darryl Frank, and Aaron Rosenberg and Danny Rose for their outstanding contributions to the Zimmer Museum and their community.

www.zimmermuseum.org

focusmag.us 89

Happenings BEVERLY HILLS PLASTIC SURGERY GROUP 6 October, Beverly Hills Grand Opening of the Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery Group Founded by Dr. John Layke and Dr. Payman Danielpour. Hosted by Sharin Yadegar, Founder LA Mom Magazine.

www.focusevents.us 90 FOCUS | J A N U ARY 2 0 1 7

Happenings KEINEJAD FASHION SHOW 1 October, Cure Spa, Malibu

Keinejad Jeans founder Diana Keinejad hosted a phenomenal fashion show and fundraiser at the oceanfront venue, Cure by Benya Medical Spa in Malibu. The allure of the Pacific Ocean and denim-clad models was only topped by Keinejad’s intention for the event: to find a kidney for her dear friend, Henning, who bravely walked the runway as a model. Keinejad partnered with Breed Life Foundation [breedlife.org] to raise awareness and funds for kidney disease.

www.focusevents.us

focusmag.us 91

Happenings WE ARE LA FAMILY FESTIVAL 17 September, StubHub Center We Are LA Family Festival celebrated and engaged the children and families in Los Angeles in a day-long family friendly music festival at the StubHub Center. They promoted the importance of education for children during the “Back to School� month of September. Proceeds from the event supported nonprofit organizations in Los Angeles investing in the lives of children and families and making a difference in our community.

92 FOCUS | J A N U ARY 2 0 1 7

www.focusevents.us

Happenings TEA WITH VICTORIA SUMMER 23 August, Hancock Park

Victoria Summer hosts “TEA WITH VICTORIA SUMMER” to benefit Teen Cancer America.

British actress, Victoria Summer, alongside production partner Lawrence Charles, has hosted an exclusive afternoon tea party at the Hancock Park residence of the British Consul General, Chris O’Connor, in celebration of the release of her new film Game of Aces, released on September 2nd.

www.focusevents.us

focusmag.us 93

Happenings DO GOOD. BE GREEN. DETOX YOUR LIFESTYLE 5 November, Downtown LA The First Annual Do Good. Be Green. Detox Your Lifestyle event. Organized by LOVE GOODLY, the deluxe eco, vegan subscription box service for a cruelty-free lifestyle. In partnership with The Collection, the historic building in downtown LA. Focus Events coverage by Fearless Females host, Janet Gunn.

www.focusevents.us

94 FOCUS | J A N U ARY 2 0 1 7

Happenings RHOND’AS KISS 3 November, El Rey, West Hollywood Rhonda’s Kiss annual benefit concert provides the financial support to help maintain the dignity of the individual, and treat the whole person during a cancer diagnosis – not just their illness – providing them with a safety net to continue their treatment. rhondaskiss.org

focusmag.us 95

#sassoonway

In a candid conversation, Eden Sassoon, reveals her relationship with her father and her determination to create a legacy of her own.

Edited transcript by Felicia Waldman from an exclusive video interview with Dawn McCoy

So you had a vision and how did you put it into action?

I think everything that I do comes from an organic visualization – I have a connection with what I call God, people call it higher power, whatever it may be, the universe; for me its my God – and I get this “You know, I’m a single sober mother.

And, that says a lot, those words right there: immediate gut feeling and all of a sudden it’s very clear what I single, sober mother at 40. And have to do. And then you take I’m not afraid to show all that.” the steps. You make it happen.

You find the right team. That’s saying, “So what are you going to do with one thing my father taught me is you are yourself?” And I looked at him and I’m only as good as your team. So if I don’t have like, “I’m a mom!” And I left that house that team around me that’s gonna build and literally I went to therapy the next something, I can’t. There’s no way I can do day, and I was like, excuse my language, it all myself. But I do a lot of things and “S#*t! My dad asked me what I’m going I’m like wow, at the end of the day I’m like, to do with myself, what am I doing with I’m like Superwoman, [laughing] I mean it my life?”, and I thought being a mom was feels sometimes I’m superwoman. I mean that, I’m done, and I sat back and I’m like, sometimes I take it for granted but I just get One; I’m in therapy which means I got up and do it again! And I just think, alright! some problems, of course, its life, but they [looking up and pointing to the ceiling] I’m need to be worked on, Two; what am I listening to you, and how am I gonna make going to do? Being a mom for me is not a difference in someone else’s life. That’s it, my everything. I love my kids and I can that’s my goal. It’s not anything else. I’m do all this, so I at that point, where does gonna build these businesses, it’s gonna my passion lie? And, I found it. At that come natural, but the intention is, how am point in my life it was pilates. I was there I gonna make a difference in someone else’s every day, and I was, obviously because I’m life? single now, unhappily married, and pilates

96 FOCUS | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 7

You are already making a difference in so many people’s lives – your charity work on top of your two health and beauty businesses...

I will go out carrying on his legacy. He, (Vidal), said to me one day, “You know, I wonder if it will be forgotten, or if I’ll be remembered.” and I’m like, “Uh, are you kidding me?” And its not because of hair, and its not because you’ve come up with an original idea, but, its who you are. You take the time, you stop, you talk, you listen…. he was blessed. And he followed through.

And you know, growing up as his daughter, he was my dad. I completely took him for granted for who he was as a man. He was just my dad. He wasn’t Vidal Sassoon the man. I didn’t get it. When he died I had to rearrange my thoughts, and look at him as Vidal Sassoon the man, and like…[choked up] that doesn’t happen, you know, he was blessed with this life, and really every day made a difference in so many ways. And not just the beauty industry. To me, those are the stories that keep going on and on and on in history, and they come from that place of love. I’m like sweating now [laughing] EDEN BY EDEN SASSOON

How is Eden by Eden Sassoon different from other salons and blow dry shops?

What sets you apart?

What sets us apart is we don’t call it a salon, we call it a finishing studio. Here’s a little story. So dad had an episode, ICU, etc, he thought he was going to die. “Eden, Can we go to lunch?” “Of course.” At lunch, his favorite restaurant, “You know this time I really thought it was it, and at some point you’re gonna be given a gift, and since I’m still here, I want see what you’re going do with it.” Ohhhhhh, here we go again! [laughing] So, here we go and you know “what are you gonna do with yourself ” again. Wait a minute, so now I’m a mom, I have a pilates studio, now you wanna see what else I can do. ‘Coz he knows there’s more to me than what I’m

Photoraphy: Rod Roberts Hair & Makeup: EDEN by Eden Sassoon

Dawn McCoy: Your dad is of course this iconic legend, Vidal Sassoon, and as a successful business woman yourself, along with your charitable endeavors, you are making quite a name for yourself.

Eden Sassoon: It’s evolved from a really organic place from becoming a mother and sitting across from my father and him

was my safety, it was my home. I went to bed looking forward to that next day of my journey, my physical journey and how I was gonna get through it, and just finding myself. And through that, there was a divorce, opening the business, and so much that came from just Dad saying, “What are you gonna do with yourself?”

Coming from him, really it was very clear to me because he’s a man, there’s no B.S., there’s no joke, he looks you in the eye and its like “who are you? And what are you going to do? And how are YOU going to make a difference?” And he and I are very much alike and I’m like, “Oh G-d, ok here we go!” And that’s’ exactly what I do now.

So that’s how Pilates started. Changed my whole world.

<<FOCUS REWIND First published – April 2014

just giving. So, [smiling] I’m on another journey saying, [sighs] ok, one passion: fitness, I got that. What else is there? And at this point I’m at a blow dry bar, I’m not gonna say the name, in Beverly Hills, and

I’m sitting there and I’m looking around and I’m thinking, this place is gross. Really in my head I’m like, this place is gross.

And these people are rude! I’m getting no feeling of….I’m getting nothing. I want to get out of here. Can you finish blow drying my hair so I can get the hell out of here please? Excuse my language, but the energy was just way off, way off. So, its coming to me and, wait a minute…..I want to change the world. I love health, I’ve already done that, I’m a Sassoon!

Hellooooo….I got it, I got it… Here we go. These blow dry bars are taking off.

I’m going to do something different, I’m going to do it my way and I’m going to do it better.

“What do women want?” A finishing studio where you can go you can get your nails and toes done, you can get your face done, and your hair done at the same time.

You’re basically finished for an event, for the day, For whatever it may be, a date?

Fast. Most importantly, it’s your experience that you have there. You don’t feel like you are in a salon – because I grew up in a salon, and I didn’t want to have that feeling anymore. So I built it out as sort of a Malibu, comfy, chic, exactly like my home.

It’s relaxed and you immediately feel at home like this. With photos on the wall of my family and old pictures of my dad and my mom, it’s just very...inviting you into my life and my family. And people love it. If you’re going to work for the Sassoon brand, the “Eden Sassoon” brand, then you need to come from the same sort of heart space that I do. Otherwise, we don’t speak the same language.

What’s next for Eden by Eden Sassoon?

Everything. We are building… when I say carrying on a legacy, that means carrying on a brand as well. So, the Sassoon brand, and Eden by Eden Sassoon, will be everywhere. Products, The Finishing Studio definitely will grow fast. I’d like to go international. And everything for the greater good. A product isn’t just because people need another product.

No. If we come up with something and we put something out there, then there is something behind that to give back. And more and more companies are doing that, thank God. So there is always thought behind what the next thing is going to be but there’s a lot. And it says it in the name, Sassoon is one thing, but Eden is another. And I always wonder why they chose “Eden”. I believe there’s a reason for everything.

THIS TOO SHALL PASS

Outside of your Pilates and Finishing Studio, what keeps you going?

Being sober, going to meetings, talking to people that inspire me or maybe need my inspiration…. waking up, taking the kids to school saying, “get outta the car so I can get to SoulCycle,” and sweat, and know that in my mind at that moment, ohh, what goes on in my mind in THAT class is like wow...is 45 minutes for myself.

Is there a quote, mantra, passage, or just a line that guides your life right now?

“This too shall pass”. Everyone stays stuck.

And I unstuck myself... in every moment, is every moment. Be very present, and very involved. and then you just kind of live this life.

What accomplishments are you most proud of?

You know one would think I’d say my children first but I’m not going to.

“Being sober”.

and I moved forward, and I did it at the time when I was also opening the business, and having the kids, and breaking up with a relationship, and deciding to stay single, and stop drinking, and get rid of smoking.

I mean, I made all those decisions. And it comes back to that one thing that he tried to teach me all the time. Discipline. Period.

End of story. Because you choose and then that’s it. How do you want your life to be?

Every single day.

In addition to being your dad, he was also your mentor...

One hundred percent, my dad is my mentor. He is, hands down in every way.

Which is kind of odd, but who he is as a man, I aspire to be every single day of my life. And pretty much live up to it. I really just let go, and be present in the moment.

It’s going to be my lifelong journey. So I’m blessed to be given him as a father to be given those gifts.

You are, and it sounds he also felt very blessed to have you as a daughter.

I was reading some bits and pieces of his book today and he was going through the kids, no disregard to my brothers and sisters because they are amazing, but he would go into each kid and there was my sister, then my brother, then… “and my darling Eden...she’s the most like me.” [teary].

There’s no higher compliment. If your dad was here with us right now, what do you think he’d say about you, or to you?

One of the last things he said, I went over and I was crying and I had this fear, and he said, “Wait, I didn’t raise you like this.

Go get ‘em. You can do this.” And I said, “What if I fail, what if I lose everything?”

He said, “Then you start over.” I’m like, arghhhh, you make this and then this, and now this?! [laughs] Ok. I got it dad thanks.

How long?

It’s been over a year.

Congratulations.

Thank you. And the addiction’s been lifted. But it’s the work and the truth and the honesty that I put into my life – but I always have. The way that I live my life is very clear, and for people to say, wow. She’s no joke. That’s it. There’s nothing to cover up, there’s no pills, there’s no grabbing for alcohol, there’s no smoking… you know you might find me going to two classes at SoulCycle or taking an extra pilates class, or maybe indulging in pizza.

I did it. And I did it, and I did every day, and I chose to make the right decisions,

Text focus to 313131 to watch Eden’s interview. focusmag.us/tv/edensassoon Eden Sassoon edenbyedensassoon.com This edited version was originally printed in Focus Issue 9 - 04/2014

focusmag.us 97

Who, What,

STYLE

DINING

FITNESS

INTERVIEWS

PERFORMANCE

ART

DECEMBER 2013 focusmag.us

CO M M U N I T Y P OW E R E D

HANGING OUT WITH ACTRESS NICOLE CANNON

ALLI WEBB

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH THE FOUNDER OF DRYBAR

A GOOD GUY

EX ‘SOPRANOS’ LOUIS LOMBARDI HITS A HIGH NOTE

A HAPPY PLACE THE SENSORY WONDERLAND THAT IS HAVEN & Co.

CATT SADLER/ANDREA SCHRODER/MARK STEINES/BROOKE ANDERSON/EDEN SASSOON APRIL BEYER/KIT HOOVER/TRACY O’CONNOR/LAURIE DAVID/HEATHER BILYEU KELLY RUTHERFORD/ALLI WEB/BRANDE RODERICK/SANDRA TAYLOR...

NICHE DEMOGRAPHIC, AVERAGE INCOME $113,000, AVERAGE HOME $1 MILLION. MEDIA KIT AT FOCUSMAG.US/ADVERTISE OR EMAIL:

ADVERTISE@FOCUSMAG.US

YO U R CO M M U N I T Y P OW E R E D M AGA Z I N E

focusmag.us B E L A I R | B E V E R LY H I L L S | B R E N T W O O D | W E S T H O L LY W O O D | S A N TA M O N I C A

Where, When.

REAL ESTATE

OPENINGS/PRODUCT LAUNCHES

CHAUTAUQUA BLVD Pacific Palisades

Video coverage of the preview party for Partners Trust to reveal a new construction property for sale.

Video coverage/photo gallery focusmag.us/tv/hamptonsinla

HERITAGE WINES STORE OPENING 9400 S Santa Monica Blvd

Coverage of a wine store opening in Beverly Hills.

Video coverage/interviewer/photo gallery focusmag.us/tv/heritagewines

CHARITY EVENTS A NIGHT TO INSPIRE Beverly Hills

Red carpet coverage of the Catt Sadler hosted, Women of The Agency event in Beverly Hills.

Co-branded/banner/Red Carpet/ Interviewer/ Video coverage/Photo gallery focusmag.us/inspire

Magazine and Video coverage to make your event unique.

events@focusmag.us

EVENTS focusevents.us B E L A I R | B E V E R LY H I L L S | B R E N T W O O D | W E S T H O L LY W O O D | S A N TA M O N I C A