New Angel Investing Model | No More Estate Tax? | Soy: Summed Up + MORE
SPRING 2010 ISSUE
the indispensable guide to Business + Luxury + Lifestyle
C - S U I T E QUARTERLY
LA
UPTOW N
Another Decade Down, Where Are We Now? T. Boone Pickens on Changing the World iPhone vs. Droid What Does This Mean for Apple? Port Hueneme Then & Now
Robert Yallen President, Inter/Media Group速 Las Vegas, Redefined Impression Management Bringing Art to Uptown The Future...of YOU
$6.95 | csqmag.com
+ more
Stephan Winkelmann CEO Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A.
ALL UNDER ONE ROOF Aircraft Charter • Aircraft Management • Sales and Acquisition
Elite Aviation operates a diverse fleet of aircraft from almost every categorization: Heavy Jets, Super Mid-size, Midsize, Light, Very Light, Turboprop and Helicopters.
Contact Joe Barber for quotes. 7501 Hayvenhurst Place Van Nuys, CA 91406 Telephone: 818.988.5387 www.eliteaviation.com
Voted ”Best Charter Department“ in the USA - ARG/US
“IN THE PAST TWO DECADES WE’VE FLOWN 66 MILLION MILES...EQUIVALENT TO 140 TRIPS TO THE MOON AND BACK.”
Begin your own tradition.
You never actually own a Patek Philippe. You merely take care of it for the next generation.
Nautilus Ref. 5712/1A, Nautilus cufflinks.
uccess . S AFCCBOBKQ HFKA LC
“It’s about transforming your compa ny, as well as yourself with other conscience- driven business leaders.” >KAV FDDP OB> F@B OBPFABKQ B RV MFKB¥ LEKPLK ® LEKPLK LRKABO LEKPLK ® LEKPLK E>OFQV L@HBV B>DRBP OBPFABKQF>I ® BV UB@RQFSB O>AR>QB
EB OBPFABKQF>I ® BV UB@RQFSB OLDO>J LKB¦LC¦>¦HFKA MOLDO>J QE>Q MOLSFABP > RKFNRB LMMLOQRKFQV QL BUMBOFBK@B > MBOPLK>I ?L>OAOLLJ LC AFPQFKDRFPEBA MBBOP >KA C>@RIQV O>KPCLOJ VLROPBIC >P VLR ?RFIA ILKD¦I>PQFKD OBI>QFLKPEFMP TFQE QELPB TEL PE>OB > AFCCBOBKQ ABCFKFQFLK LC PR@@BPP
OSFKB BPQ LP KDBIBP >KA >IF?R O>AR>QB >JMRPBP
?P@ELLI MBMMBOAFKB BAR¥MHB ª « ¦
CERTAIN
EXPERIENCES ARE
B E ST S AVO R E D W H E N S H A R E D .
C O M P L I M E N TA RY C O M PA N I O N O F F E R YO U R G U E S T O N U S There’s more than enough fun to go around at Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village. That’s why we’d like to invite your companion or friend to stay, spa, dine and even begin a quest for healthy living at California Health & Longevity Institute, on us. Our Double the Fun package includes a complimentary second night, so you’ll have another 24 hours to make lasting memories. For reservations, contact your travel consultant, Four Seasons at 1-800-332-3442 or the Hotel directly at 1-818-865-5870. Or visit www.fourseasons.com/westlakevillage/packages
As always.
Advance reservations required. Rates start at $395 per room, per night based on Moderate King accommodations. Complimentary charges for the second person in the room must be of equal or lesser value than the charges for the first person in the room. Dining options exclude alcohol, gratuity and special events. The package is available through September 30, 2010. Complimentary night must be used in conjunction with initial stay. Only one complimentary night is available per stay. Complimentary Hotel charges apply to one person only. Offer is subject to availability. Certain restrictions may apply.
The C-Suite are the leaders within their organizations or industries whose title customarily begins with Chief. IE: CEO, CFO, COO.
c-suite c-suite quarterly quarterly
Contents visionaries
40 | Stephan Winkelmann CEO of Lamborghini S.p.A answers questions about his organization, how he got to where he is today, and where he gets his suits 26 | Robert Yallen Hidden Hills’ resident and President of Inter/Media Group® Robert Yallen is always at the forefront
40
features 22 | The Great iphone vs droid Debate Those of you with iPhone envy might want to think about stepping up to the Droid. But is it all it’s cracked up to be? 23 | 10 Years of greening How have we progressed in the last ten years and where is the green revolution headed in this decade
26
62 30
24 | Business Insight How to find angel investors and the state of the marketing and hospitality industries 30 | Carioca Calling! Why wait for Carnival and the 2016 Summer Olympics when Rio de Janeiro flows year-round with alluring color, chic, cocktails, and culture 44 | Soy: Clearing Up Controversies Rethink what you’ve heard about soy with a thorough review of current research 62 | The Oxnard Harbor District Port of Hueneme: The Port the Farmers Built
CSQadvisory 46 The Future Of You By Daryl Wizelman
50 The New Gold Rush By Alan S. Hopkins
48 Roth IRA Conversions By Andrew Levinson, CPA
52 Estate Law Repeal By Jeffrey M. Zabner
54 Impression Management By Deborah Shames & David Booth
17
2010
Is Not Business As Usual... Your Lifestyle Depends On It Invest Wise
Wisdom provides opportunity. Our knowledge and experience protects your lifestyle and secures the reliable income ensuring your future. You deserve the unbiased wisdom only a fiduciary Investment Counsel provides.
Manage Well
Vigilance protects your portfolio. Political events and economic conditions change more rapidly than ever, so we strategically adjust your portfolio to protect your future.
Live Secure
Money secures your lifestyle. We stay intensely focused on your investment goals so you don’t have to worry about the assets that make it all possible. You dreamed it, you achieved it, and we’ll make sure you keep it.
For more information or to schedule your confidential conversation, please call 805-495-4405 2815 Townsgate Road, Suite 100 • Westlake Village, CA 91361 • 805-495-4405 • www.mfinvest.com
CSQMag.com | 5
LAUPTOWN uptownarts
From Hidden Valley to Hidden Hills and over to Malibu, get cultured on the arts, eats, shops, philanthropies, and people that make this haven one of the most sought after residential and business destinations in the country.
UPTOWNdining
UPTOWNlifestyle
64 Chef Roberto Leyva The secret ingredient behind Fins Restaurant Group 65 Leila’s SmalL Plate Fun Sophisticated, delicious food in a warm, comfortable, urban-style bistro in Oak Park. 62 Valley Arts Vision in View The San Fernando Valley needs a museum of the Arts: Here’s Why
66 BRENT’s Deli: The Power Breakfast If “let’s get down to business” is your motto, breakfast is your power meal
18 Spanish Hills Country Club World class luxury for everyday use at Spanish Hills Country Club
DEPARTMENTS
Destinations
LA DINING
10 editor's letter The Power of Positivity
30 Carioca Calling! Why wait for Carnival and the 2016 Summer Olympics when Rio de Janeiro flows year-round with alluring color, chic, cocktails, and culture
11 Contributors See who added their expertise this issue 12 desirables Unique items and experiences to enhance your life 16 AUTOLUX Iconic Roadster Mid-century modern with a performance update for today
34 TOUJOUR LAS VEGAS Las Vegas is on a perpetual roll, reinventing itself faster than you can say “blackjack”
THE City Suite
39 STK HOLLYWOOD Living up to the reputation of being “not your father’s steak house” with every plate
76 The Motivational ® Minute
T. BOONE PICKENS by Michael J. Herman
17 Buying Time IN THE BLACK Black on black timepieces to round out any man’s wardrobe
16
36 The Peninsula Beverly Hills Nestled within an ivy-covered haven that defines Hollywood Glamour
76
For two or two thousand, Brent’s can deliver quality and value to your event with only a couple of hours notice! Choose from a variety of Party Platters, Sandwich Platters, Fruit,Veggie, Dessert & Appetizer Trays and have them delivered anywhere in Southern California, 7 days a week.
Fast, easy, delicious!
Northridge
Westlake Village
818-886-5679
805-557-1882
brentsdeli.com
NE W ANGEL INVESTING M O D E L | N O M O R E ES TAT E TA X ? | SO Y: SU M M E D U P + M O RE
SPRING 2010 ISSUE
the indispensable guide to the Business Lifestyle L A | U P T O WN
C - S U I T E QUARTERLY
ANOTHER DECADE DOWN, WHERE ARE WE NOW?
C - S U I T E QUARTERLY
T. Boone Pickens on Changing the World iPhone vs. Android What does this mean for Apple?
info@csqmag.com | www.csqmag.com
Port Hueneme Then & Now
Published By e|nergie media group, inc.
EDITOR in CHIEF David Wurth david@csqmag.com
BOB YALLEN President, Inter/Media Group LAS VEGAS, REDEFINED IMPRESSION MANAGEMENT BRINGING ART TO UPTOWN THE FUTURE...OF YOU + more
SVP, operations Ryan Addis ryan@csqmag.com
$6.95 | csqmag.com
STEPHAN WINKELMANN CEO AUTOMOBILI LAMBORGHINI S.P.A.
Marketing Director Lisa Marie Chase lisamarie@csqmag.com
West Coast Ad Director Dorie Leo
MANAGING EDITOR / Art Director Mike Severson mike@csqmag.com
Get LA Uptown’s Indispensable guide to business, luxury and lifestyle.
assistant Editor Dale Beck
Senior Editors Elyse Glickman, Michael J. Herman, Christy Rosen
Contributing editors Bill Buratto, Jim Cathcart, Marc Cohen, Gordon Durich,
Amber George, Jackie Lapin, Jasai Madden, Rebecca Miller, Michael Reiss, Diane Sukiennik, Lee Tomkow Contributing advisors Alan Aragon, David Booth, John Dilts, Alan Hopkins,
Andy Levinson, Deborah Shames, Daryl Wizelman, Jeff Zabner Staff Photographer Robby K photos@csqmag.com CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Bill Appelton, Mike Diaz
Subscribe Online at CSQmag.com
INTERN Michael Grant Regional Distribution Managers Savage Distribution, Right-Way Distribution Regional circulation Manager Magazine Distribution Group accounting Andy Levinson, Gish Seiden alevinson@gishseiden.com bookkeeping Tim Hughes thughes@hughesgs.com Advertising / marketing inquiries advertising@csqmag.com 818.225.8763 Editorial Inquiries / Submissions editorials@csqmag.com 818.225.8168 CSQ Magazine is published quarterly. It is mailed directly to C-Level executives, business owners, and ultrahigh net worth residences as well as distributed at upscale locations throughout Los Angeles Uptown & Beverly Hills by E | NERGIE MEDIA GROUP, INC. 23945 Calabasas Rd. Suite 213 Calabasas, CA 91302 818.225.8168
8 | CSQMag.com
© 2010 E|Nergie Media Group, INC. All rights reserved. CSQ and C-Suite Quarterly are registered trademarks of E|NERGIE MEDIA GROUP, INC. No articles, illustrations, photographs or any other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without permission of copyright owner. Printed in the U.S.A.
Owners Tarcisio Mosconi & Antonio Alessi | Wine Room | Patio | Executive Chef Franceso Velasco
Open Noon - 10pm | 7 Days a Week | Sunday Brunch 310.456.0169 | 3835 Cross Creek Rd #8A | Malibu, California Located in the Malibu Country Market www.tradinoimalibu.com
One of Malibu’s Best! - Zagat Restaurant Guide
The C-Suite are the leaders within their organizations or industries whose title customarily begins with Chief. IE: CEO, CFO, COO.
c-suite quarterly
l e t t e r f r o m t h e e dito r
The Power of Positivity
When it comes to attitude, there are two directions from which to choose - positive or negative. Which one will you choose? Not that that is the end all. It’s widely known that when you walk out into your yard full of weeds, no matter how positive you are, the weeds won’t disappear without action. And therein lies the core of success. Not that the trials and tribulations of every day life won’t get in the way. But at CSQ Magazine, as we bring in this new decade, we do so with a renewed spirit and confidence toward a successful future. It’s not unlike the race car driver who knows the car will go where his eyes are focused. He’s watching the curve and not the crowd. With that in mind, remember that success starts above the neck. And while it’s cliche, we are responsible for our own future, so why not get it started on the right track? Impression Management (as discussed at length on page 54) says success comes with smiling and laughing more while portraying a positive energy. Indeed, where the mind goes the body will follow. As we travel through this economic valley we’re all experiencing, it may be a good time to look toward our professional foundations, starting with the oftentimes overlooked area of customer service. Calling a corporation the other day, the receptionist answered with a rather terse voice, which appeared to echo through the company. My smile quickly diminished to a frown as I tried navigating my way through the departments.
10 | CSQMag.com
Let’s remember the importance of first impressions, and examine our own professional backyard, from the gardner, to the parking attendant, to the one who answers the phone, and make sure your customer’s first impression represents your company. If we look and work toward a brighter future, we will all get there, not necessarily unscathed, but backgrounded with sunshine rather than storm-filled sky. The messages on the billboards replacing my picture this issue are a few of many sponsored by the Outdoor Advertisers Association of America (OAAA.org) - these can still be seen across the United States. The OAAA is focusing their efforts on sending the message that tough economic times are cyclical and as a people, we must think further ahead and beyond the challenges today while staying positive and ceasing to discuss the pessimistic. Passing on the positive will not only make life more enjoyable for you and those around you in the mean time, but as we learn more of Impression Management, we realize that it may actually help us reach that rebound a lot faster. (and after all, you never know who’s listening.)
David Wurth - Editor in Chief david@csqmag.com
Co ntr ib utor s
Marc Cohen
Christy Rosen
A prominent Southern California radio personality, Marc Cohen has spent over 30 years in broadcasting. His long running technology show is one of the most listened to technology shows in the country. A keynote speaker at numerous conferences, Marc is often called upon by top companies such as Microsoft, Sony, and Gateway to do early technology testing. He has also served as a judge for the Codie Award, judging the top software in the country. Marc is also the host of the Distinguished Speakers Series at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza where they recently hosted President Bill Clinton and Dr. Condoleezza Rice. Marc makes his home in the San Fernando Valley with his wife, Leslie. Currently, he is managing director at a major financial institution.
An award-winning public speaker and published speech writer, Christy Rosen has written about a variety of topics for more than 20 years. Christy’s professional experiences include helping launch a multi-million dollar product for one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the country, being an award winning sales person, and working as a personal aid to United States Senator Chuck Hagel. Additionally, Christy has been involved with numerous political campaigns. A mother of two and dedicated wife, Christy gave up corporate life to assume the position of “Director of Domestic Affairs.” A Hastings College honors graduate, Christy now channels her passion for words into her freelance writing. Making stories come alive is one of her favorite pastimes…second only to watching her native Nebraska Cornhuskers play football.
Bill Burratto Bill Buratto is president and CEO of the Ventura County Economic Development Association, a position he’s held since 2001. He serves on numerous boards and commissions including the Governor’s Office of Small Business Advocate Advisory Council, the Governor’s Emergency Planning Advisory Workgroup, the Emergency Planning Council of Ventura County, the United Way of Ventura County, the First 5 Commission of Ventura County, and the Gold Coast Veterans Foundation. He lives in Thousand Oaks with his wife and son.
Elyse Glickman Elyse Glickman’s work spans the globe—traveling to over 20 countries on assignment--and a world of topics including food, wine and spirits, interior design and fashion. She serves as Managing Editor for Beverage Industry News, and her articles have appeared in Harper’s Bazaar Malaysia, Sportswear International, Estates West, La Reppublica, Enchanted Brides, LUCIRE, From House to HOME, TheBookLA. com, The Liquid Muse web site, JW Marriott Hotels’ JWest and NUVO. The Chicago native is based in Los Angeles, and enjoys photography, yoga, cooking and bartending in her spare time.
c-suite quarterly
Jackie Lapin Jackie Lapin is an entrepreneur, media relations expert, and best selling author. She began her career as one of the nation’s first women sportswriters at the Detroit Free Press and Washington Post, and then went on to establish a media relations agency that developed award-winning publicity campaigns for major international brands and sports organizations. Using her skills as a writer, communicator, and entrepreneur, she has recently reinvented herself as a leader in the consciousness marketplace. Her book, The Art of Conscious Creation, How You Can Transform the World, was an Amazon. com best seller, and she has just launched LifeWisdomNetwork.com, the virtual village that is the marketplace, directory, and information resource for the fast-growing consciousness and transformational world.
Alan Aragon With over 15 years of success in the fitness field, Alan Aragon is a continuing education provider for the Commission on Dietetic Registration, National Academy of Sports Medicine, American Council on Exercise, and National Strength & Conditioning Association. Alan maintains a private practice, designing programs for recreational, Olympic, and professional athletes, including the Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Kings, and Anaheim Mighty Ducks. He is a contributing editor and weight loss coach for Men’s Health magazine and his book, Girth Control, is considered one of the most in-depth manuals for physique improvement and understanding of nutrition. Contact Alan at www.alanaragon.com.
c-suite quarterly
d e sir abl e s
From Oliver Smith comes the latest in their line of eco-chic “Boho Bracelets.” Woven with synthetic silk cord, these gemstone bracelets (seen stacked at left) feature polished beads made from black onyx, turquoise, and jasper, as well as lesser know gemstones. Finished with a toggle clasp in either sterling silver or 18K white,
POLACHECK’S
yellow, or rose gold, they start at $345, with custom pieces featuring
Boho Bracelets
silver or gold beads slightly more.
Starting at $345
The entire Boho Collection may be
www.polachecks.com
found at Polacheck’s Jewelers.
The Ultimate Luxurious Lifestyle Four Hundred Club Concierge Service Apply to join at www.fourhundred.com If you believe that there is no such thing as overdoing luxury and strive to live a limitless life, then you sound like someone who lives the Four Hundred lifestyle. This invitation-only lifestyle management firm bestows upon its clients full-access and exclusivity to the most coveted restaurants, clubs, travel destinations, sporting events, and more. Four Hundred even offers health, personal growth, wealth, and fashion services. The highly-trained lifestyle specialists provide worldwide impeccable service warranting rave reviews. Last minute? No problem. Front row on opening night? You got it. It seems that nothing is impossible for Four Hundred.
First Class Safety, First Class Design Stockinger Chimera Safe www.stockinger.com
When it comes to important documents and personal items, there is no such thing as too secure. The Stockinger company blends maximum security with ultimate design to create high-quality and attractive safes. The Chimera model, which is often built into private studies, features two Stocktronic locks and a silent alarm. It also holds up to 15 drawers allowing for plenty of room and individual compartments for jewelry, passports, important documents, and cash. These made-to-order safes can be customized for size, style, and/or functionality. The Chimera looks particularly attractive in a mahogany varnish. All safes are handcrafted in Germany, and Stockinger facilitates delivery and installation worldwide.
12 | CSQMag.com
Memorable Meetings
Successful Stays Est. 1968
On 17 enchanting acres, the Inn is a Tuscan style sanctuary of peace, privacy and attention to detail. This European inspired property exudes value with celebrated cuisine providing personalized service that caters to your every need. At the Westlake Village Inn successful stays and memorable meetings are the standard. 31943 Agoura Road Westlake Village CA 91361 818-889-0230 westlakevillageinn.com
c-suite quarterly
d e sir abl e s
Collezione Automobili Lamborghini The Auto Gallery Lamborghini 818.575.6544 Westfield Topanga 6600 Topanga Canyon Blvd www.theautogallery.com www.lamborghininorthlosangeles.com The Auto Gallery and Automobili Lamborghini have teamed up to launch only the second boutique of its kind in 2009 (the only other in Beijing) featuring the fashion and accessory ‘collezione’ one would only expect from the sporty yet luxurious Lamborghini brand. Within the modern walls of the Westfield Topanga, discerning customers can find a display of the highest quality men’s and lady’s attire, ranging from cufflinks to coats, as well as shop for your next new or pre-owned Lamborghini motorcar right there on site.
It’s not unlikely that you have already heard of the Amazon
Always Ready for Tee Time Golf Trunk $30.99 Purchase the Golf Trunk at www.organize.com
Books At Your Fingertips Amazon Kindle $289.99 www.amazon.com
Kindle, the wireless reading device that downloads and stores books for reading at your convenience. But, you may not have heard of the latest version that is slimmer, lighter, and even more convenient. The updated version is just over 1/3 of an inch thin, weighs 10.2
If you enjoy spending your free time on the golf course or
ounces, and includes 3G wireless
driving range, it’s likely your golf accessories are close at
technology. The Kindle is also
hand. More accurately, they are probably floating around your
debuting an experimental text-
car’s trunk. The Golf Trunk Organizer by Talus may be the
to-speech feature and a built-in
answer to your cluttered trunk. This compact nylon organizer
PDF reader, which adds to the
comes with enough room for all your golf equipment including
other conveniences of adjustable
a ventilated design for shoes as well as three mesh pockets
text size and anti-glare. This
inside and two zippered pockets outside to keep golf balls
new version also has increased
and tees organized. Accented with a soft faux leather trim
storage, meaning you can
and handle, this attractive organizer helps make sure you’re
download more of your favorite
always ready for tee time.
books and periodicals. Amazon has lowered prices in the everexpanding library of over 400,000 downloadable books with most New York Times Best Sellers and new releases priced at $9.99.
Wheels At Your Beckon Call Zipcar www.zipcar.com Have you ever wished for the convenience of a vehicle without the hassles and extra costs that go along with owning one? If so, you’re not alone. Zipcar has come up with an excellent alternative. This fairly new idea of car sharing means you have a variety of vehicles available to you at any time without having to worry about maintenance, insurance, storage, or even gas. Zipcar has seen a 70% increase in membership since the beginning of the recession, with 60% of new members abandoning car ownership in lieu of Zipcar. A unique alternative for those looking for convenience ZabnerBuild_FINAL.indd
and fun, as well those looking VersiontoFINAL slim down their expenses. Available by the hour, day, or weekend.
It’s about...everyone you love and everything you own. SM
Jeffrey M. Zabner, a Law Corporation Attorneys and Counselors
4165 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd, Suite 301 Westlake Village, CA 91362 (805) 374-2777 www.zabnerlaw.com
c-suite quarterly
d e sir abl e s
T he I c o nic R o adste r
AUTOLUX 0-60 IN LESS THAN 3 SECONDS. Top Speed 210 MPH ¼ Mile < 9 Seconds skid pad 1.1+ G
I
CONIC Motors, one of the automobile industry’s premier luxury and high performance vehicle makers, last year announced the debut of its 2010 ICONIC AC Roadster™ at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. This distinguished work of art is designed from the ground up to be one of the world’s most completely refined and advanced super cars. Virtually no other vehicle on the planet has undergone the same kind of engineering development and attention to detail as this car. ICONIC Motors has stayed true to its foundational mantra of Uncompromised Excellence™ and has focused all of its efforts on delivering a one-of-a-kind timeless automotive masterpiece that will live on for the ages. More than just a car, the ICONIC AC Roadster is among the world’s most refined and beautifully designed super cars, termed by some as the lightest, strongest, most well-engineered, high performance roadster of our time. The engine, drive train, support electronics, and overall chassis make it one of the most complete vehicle packages on the market today. The ICONIC AC Roadster pays tribute to historic muscle cars of yesterday, but underneath the updated exterior ICONIC uses the technological innovation and advancements of tomorrow. ICONIC Motors sets itself apart from any other car company in the world because almost each individual part is an exclusive design of the company. Utilizing CAD, the engineering team begins the development process from the ground up and only uses the most advanced material sciences throughout the build phase. This allows for ICONIC to test 16 | CSQMag.com
each element of the car before actual creation to ensure it will work seamlessly with optimized strength and weight. Conveying the look and style of timeless classic roadsters of the 1950’s and ‘60’s, but infusing all of the modern innovation and engineering available today, this super sports car is truly the first of its kind, combining high-end luxury, ultra high quality, American made parts, and world class fine detailing. As part of the design and build of this all-new roadster, ICONIC has partnered with AC®Cars to brand this individual model. The partnership between ICONIC and AC represents the modern synthesis of the rich history and heritage of the AC brand which spans over 100 years. Having been founded in the UK, AC holds a dash of Italian heritage from the late ‘60’s and early ‘70’s. The ICONIC AC Roadster also pays homage to the historic AC Cobras of the 1960’s, but in a more modern and highly refined way. Today’s technology allows for ICONIC to develop and engineer some of the world’s most advanced vehicles.
For more information on ICONIC Motors, contact DRIVEN Media Communications at 951.461.2429 or visit www.iconicmotors.com.
de si r able s
BUY IN G t ime
I n T he BL a ck By Dale Beck
IWC Aquatimer Chronograph Edition Galapagos Islands
Bell & Ross BRO1-93 24 hour GMT Traditional Jewelers, Malibu www.traditionaljewelers.com 310.317.9100 $4,500 Designed specifically for the long-haul traveler, the BR01 contains a GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) function, displaying the time at two different points on the planet. With large, white photoluminescent numerals, the inner bezel and orange-coloured GMT hand stand out against the black of the dial for perfect readability, becoming the perfect tool for the man wishing to travel without losing his bearings.
Polacheck’s, Calabasas www.polachecksjewelers.com 818.225.0600 Please Call for Pricing This Aquatimer Chronograph Edition Galapagos Islands is the result of an evolution in watchmaking technology. The stainless-steel case undergoes a complex vulcanization process that leaves it with a matt black rubber coating, making the watch, which is pressure-resistant to 12 bar, a joy to see and feel. To the eye, its as black as the lava on the volcanic islands and as white as the clouds by which they are often shrouded.
Franck Muller Mariner 8080 Hublot King Power Westime, Beverly Hills www.westime.com 310.271.0000 $24,900 Designed with a powerful aesthetic concept, the King Power houses a split-second foudroyante chronograph movement. The case is shaped with sharp angles and straight sides, and features raised end pieces and screws. On the case edge, the push pieces stand out more, with the decorative tubes inserted in the black composite resin. Its rubber strap features an embossed cut-out, giving it a very robust look, and comes with a clasp made of ceramic.
Dejaun Jewelers, Westfield Topanga www.dejaun.com 818.888.8304 $8,400 With distinctive marine symbols such as the blue wind rose and compass, The Mariner evokes the feeling of the marine, inspiring this new collection of timepieces. Robust push-pieces positioned on the side of the case, together with a powerful crown, emphasize once more the dynamic character of the line. This collection is available in three Cintrée Curvex cases: steel, gold, platinum and a PVD “all black version.”
CSQMag.com | 17
c-suite quarterly
up t o w n lif e s t yle
Spanish Hills Country Club
Take a short drive and discover the country club that makes you an instant VIP By Christy Rosen
J
ust north of the Conejo Valley is a country club that will instantly generate a transformation. While at other clubs you are just another member, at Camarillo’s Spanish Hills Country Club, you are a VIP. Surrounded by beauty in every direction, the Spanish-inspired clubhouse welcomes you to a world of indulgence that can be enjoyed on an everyday basis. Whether your passion is golf, tennis, dining, or just living the high life…Spanish Hills will satisfy your craving. The 18-hole, par 71 championship golf course, designed by renowned architect Robert E. Cupp, boasts five tees to accommodate any skill level. There are extensive
practice facilities on-site to help improve your game, while the breathtaking views rival those of any golf course in California. If you would rather swing a racket than a club, then head out to one of the five lighted tennis courts. With two teaching professionals on staff, USTA and inter-club leagues and tournaments, as well as a pro shop, Spanish Hills will quickly become the tennis lover’s favorite hangout. Additionally, one can take advantage of the junior Olympic-size swimming pool and professionally outfitted fitness center. Personal trainers are on staff to assist at a moment’s notice.
When you are ready to relax, Spanish Hills offers whirlpool, sauna, and steam rooms, as well as massage and facial therapy upon request. A formal dining room with exquisite cuisine and a more casual member’s grill help round out a luxury experience that can be enjoyed by the entire family. At Spanish Hills Country Club, an extraordinary effort is placed on providing detailed and personalized service. If you are looking for a country club membership where you get your money’s worth and then some…take the short drive up the 101 and discover the Spanish Hills Country Club.
Golf Stats:
Membership Stats:
Spanish Hills country Club
Pro / Championship / Back / Middle / Forward Yardage 6702 / 6302 / 5862 / 5422 / 5002 Men’s Rating 72.6 / 70.6 / 68.7 / 66.8 / 64.9 Men’s Slope 140 / 136 / 129 / 125 / 121 Women’s Rating – / 77.5 / 75.2 / 72.9 / 70.5 Women’s Slope – / 143 / 138 / 129 / 126
Over 1,500 members
Athletic, Full Equity Golf
999 Crestview Avenue Camarillo, CA 93010 805.388.5000 www.spanishhillscc.com CSQ Contact: Andrea Milton amilton@spanishhillscc.com
When your club is hosting a
{ malibu Country club }
{ Lost Canyons golf club }
tournament or closed for
Monday day rate $75 Optional annual membership gives unlimited golf and preferred rates at 3 other California courses. $4,500 for individuals 7-day access. 901 Encinal Canyon Road, Malibu 818.889.6680 / malibucountryclub.net
Monday day rate $70/75 Only 36-hole public course in Ventura County designed by Pete Dye and consulted by Fred Couples. Play all 36 for $125. 3301 Lost Canyons Drive, Simi Valley 805.522.4653 / lostcanyons.com
the day, look to these stand out public courses to host your foursome.
18 | CSQMag.com
Average Age is 51 Membership levels: Social,
c-suite quarterly
Libat i o n s
The Flavor Profile An Index of Possibilities By Lee Tomkow
W
ine is merely three basic elements: the grapes, the yeast and a container within which to ferment. Of course, there is more science and technology involved in the process today than at its discovery 8,000 years ago, but wine making still revolves around these three ingredients. First, there are the berries such as merlot, syrah, sauvignon blanc, grenache, etc., referred to as “the noble grapes.” Imagine them as we do apples, a Granny Smith, Golden Delicious or Fuji; we know each of these has a unique flavor; so, too, does each varietal of grape. The next key ingredient is the yeast strain. Yeast’s food of choice is sugar, and when they consume the sugars in the grapes, yeast expels alcohol and carbon dioxide – the bubbles in champagne and sparkling wines. Some basic fermentation science here – nothing too technical – in fact, some strains of yeast have been developed to produce certain notes like grass, grapefruit, or pear in some white wines. Finally, a word about the container, oak barrels, steel tanks, and even concrete vats. The oak ideally shouldn’t be overly
20 | CSQMag.com
noticeable, offering a light seasoning rather than a flavoring. A barrel can add chocolate, toast, cloves, cedar, and even mint to the profile, whereas steel helps to retain a crisp clean acidity. Concrete allows for a little extra minerality. One of the least understood aspects of wine is the regional weather patterns where the grapes grow best. For instance, here in North America, we refer to certain styles. Rhone-style means a hot climate and cool nights for wines like syrah, grenache, or viognier in valleys such as Santa Ynez and Rancho Cucamonga. Burgundystyle is a cooler climate for pinot noir or chardonnay, such as the Santa Rita Hills in Santa Barbara which has more of a temperate, maritime, or coastal influence. Bordeaux-style also represents a hot climate, but in regions such as Napa, the warm nights make it suitable for merlot, cabernet sauvignon, or sauvignon blanc. Sometimes microclimates in the same area can allow for variety and experimentation such as that found in Malibu canyon. These regions are known as appellations or AVA’s. Let’s take two grapes as examples of how an appellation can influence the flavor profile. Grown in a cool climate, the syrah will display a lot of white pepper notes both on the nose and the palate. The viognier will have clean crisp acidity and display fragrances of gardenia and freesia with tropical fruit on the palate. In a hotter region, the syrah displays degrees of jamminess and dark berries, with a potentially hot alcoholic burn on the finish. The viognier is noticeably more like dried apricots and honeysuckle, leading to a flabby sensation and unctuousness in the mouth. Each of these elements can potentially influence the style of the wine. The winemaker, in effect, is the chef whose skill is to understand these nuances. For the consumer, it is a matter of taste and personal preference, and when paired with food, the index of possibilities widens.
Where we grow what in California Napa Bordeaux-style hot climate, warm nights Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Sauvignon Blanc Santa Ynez Rancho Cucamonga Rhone-style hot climate, cool nights Syrah, Grenache, Viognier Santa Barbara Burgundy-style cooler climate Pinot Noir, Chardonnay Malibu canyon Appellations or AVA’s microclimates in the same area allow for variety and experimentation
CSQMag.com | 21
bizt e c h
c-suite quarterly
By Marc Cohen
the Great iPhone vs. Droid Debate
SIDE BY SIDE Storage Capacity Battery Life (Hours) Camera
Droid
16gb
16gb
5 talk, 300 standy
6.4 talk, 270 standby
3 megapixel
5 megapixel
Wi-Fi
Yes
Yes
GPS
Yes, turn by turn
Yes, turn by turn with voice
Yes
Yes
iTunes App Store
Android Market
100,000
10,000
Voice Commands App Store Number of Apps
22 | CSQMag.com
iPhone
a
fter several years of iPhone envy, I can now finally say, “I have the Droid! Now I can do anything you can do and make phone calls too!” The Droid, made by Motorola and perfected by Google, may be the best phone I have ever used. The iPhone hit the market two-and-a-half years ago and caused a dramatic change in the way we use our cell phones. Instead of functioning as a phone, that piece of technology in our pockets became a way of life. The knock, of course, was that it was and still is exclusive to the AT&T network. Therein lies the problem. Verizon, which tends to get far superior service nationwide, caused many including myself to pass on the iPhone and opt to actually use our phones to make calls. Welcome to the new world! In my opinion, the new Droid is at worst equal and in many cases better than the iPhone. Add to it the benefit of the Verizon network and you have a real winner. In side by side comparisons, the Droid has the better network, superior GPS navigation with Google map voice activation, and a virtual and physical keyboard. With the Droid,
if you have a battery issue, you can simply replace it. Got a battery issue with the iPhone? You’ll be making a long trip back to the Apple Store to get it done. Since the Droid works on an open software platform, developers can easily create new applications. The iPhone still must work on Apple's proprietary system, although this has not hurt iPhone application development. Style and design wise, the iPhone does have the upper hand. It's thinner, syncs music much easier, and frankly looks much nicer. However, from a business integration point of view, the Droid allows access to multiple email and server applications. For now, it’s hard to assess from a business model point of view whether Apple or Google emerges as the winner. Recently, Apple acquired La la Media (snatched away from Google), and Google snatched away AdMob from under the nose of Apple. Both Apple and Google are powerhouses in the business community, hence the battle rages on. For now, though, iPhone envy is over; unless, of course, the iPhone moves to Verizon… Long live the Droid.
Marc Cohen hosts the syndicated show Computer and Technology Radio on WS Radio with his co-host Marsha Collier, author of eBay for Dummies Series. computerandtechnologyradio.com
Gr e e ne r L ivi ng
c-suite quarterly
10 Years of Greening By Michael Severson
Another decade down and it’s time to glance in the mirror at our environmental progress over the last 10 years. It’s with a green thumbs up we can spotlight two of the most important advances: transportation and power generation. The most stand-out category for a lot of consumers comes in transportation. Though Hybrid vehicles became available in the 1990’s, the demand for them, specifically the front-running Prius, wasn’t great until 2004. Ironically, even Toyota understated their value with limited production, until car sales caught fire that year. Since the introduction of hybrid cars to the mainstream, there have been over 300,000 registered in the United States alone. With demand so high, hybrid engines have started appearing in every type of vehicle imaginable: from locomotives to aircraft, from SUV’s to luxury vehicles, and everywhere in between. This year, Toyota has released a plug-in version of the Prius that runs exclusively on electric power within it’s electric range, a maximum of 13 miles. With most Americans having a commute of approximately 16 miles each way, a plug-in hybrid would be able to move them to and from work (assuming there is a charging station available) using a minimal amount of fossil fuel. Of course, the question before the house becomes, “Where does the power to charge those hybrids come from?” Turning to power, as of the year 2000, experts declared we were supposed to have electric cars and get all our power from the sun. Ten years later, we are still relying on coal and other fossil fuels to generate the majority of the electricity in the United States. However, a number of initiatives have paved the way for even greater advances in the next decade. As of 2008, 13.5% of the power being
consumed in California was coming from renewables, a number that does not include large hydroelectric power. Today, Californians are getting 20% of their power from those resources, a very positive trend. In 2008, Governor Schwarzenegger issued an executive order requiring 33% renewables by 2020. As of the end of 2009, the largest solar power plants are located in Europe, but the world’s largest has been proposed, and should start being built this year, which will be 550 megawatts, a staggering amount larger than the world’s largest, which is a meager 60 MWs. The battle cry for the greening of America is still strong, though the economic crisis seems to have taken front stage. At the same time, smaller, home grown initiatives seem to be holding strong, with organic food and clothing staying en vogue. The good news is that overall, we continue to make progress toward a more environmentally responsible nation thanks to consumer drive and legislation supporting the movement. It’s time to revitalize and recommit to your own personal environmental protection plan to make sure there is a healthy, sustainable planet for generations to come. The 2010 Prius Plug-In Hybrid debuted this year with several other plug-ins on the horizon from other manufacturers.
c-suite quarterly
b usin e ss I n sig ht
INDUSTRY Angel Investing John P. Dilts
Founder & President Maverick Angels, LLC
1) Interest by angels in sharing risk and due diligence 2) Managing an increasing volume and variety of opportunities efficiently 3) Leveraging the collaborative strengths of the membership
Since the ‘90s, venture capitalists (VCs) have largely
4) Giving individual members the power to make their own
moved upstream to manage bigger funds, and a distinct
investment decisions via a hands-on approach (especially
funding gap emerged between VCs and the seed stage,
important when managed stock portfolios take a nose
friends, and family round of financing. Especially since
dive)
the economic recession hit and many VC funds stopped in their tracks, angel investors have filled that funding
5) The need to socialize and interact with like-minded,
void and have surpassed the volume of VC investing in
like-spirited investors with a passion for supporting
emerging-growth companies.
entrepreneurial ventures (many are successful serial entrepreneurs themselves)
Angels are high net-worth individuals who invest a minimum of $25,000 to $50,000 directly into a start-up
Given these drivers, there is an enormous opportunity
company that is typically raising from $250,000 up to $2M
to organize the way angels and entrepreneurs interact in
in an early-stage financing round. As a result, the angel’s
the early stage in a win-win manner. We have an unprec-
participation can provide crucial support to an emerging-
edented ability to provide entrepreneurs with resources,
growth company otherwise marooned in this funding gap,
guidance, and support more easily, especially since the
or “Valley of Death,” as it is often called.
explosion of shared information and access now available to entrepreneurs globally because of the IT and Internet
However, the challenge is that angels are very fragmented
boom.
and often invest on their own without the support of others looking at the same deal. This has created the
Likewise, large companies are beginning to come
need for professionally managed angel investment clubs
downstream to source innovation from start-ups in the
like Maverick Angels to become popular among start-up
open market and to acquire companies when their sale
investors.
prices are more reasonable. This provides a new, more streamlined path for angel investors to recover their
Incubators, venture accelerators, and numerous other
investment profits sooner.
early-stage focused models have come and gone, but
24 | CSQMag.com
the angel network model is now consistently growing in
There is a need to create a fresh, new, and highly-struc-
popularity and interest. There are specific drivers behind
tured approach for how innovation and opportunity meet
that trend:
with financial and strategic resources according to new
parameters for engagement of the various players in a more systemic way. We need to work to fast-track new ventures toward scalable growth and ultimately liquidity in ways never before possible. This requires that all the participants in the entrepreneurial ecosystem share a common language and understanding about the entrepreneurial path and participate in a shared process to reduce risk and optimize upside in an effort to create a positive result for all involved. For more information about Maverick Angels and its events in Westlake Village, the South Bay, or Santa Barbara, go to www.maverickangels.com or e-mail info@maverickangels. com to inquire about attending an upcoming meeting as a guest to observe.
John Dilts is the Founder and President of Maverick Angels, LLC, a highly innovative angel investor network based in Southern California which focuses on funding and mentoring early-stage companies. Since founding the company in 2006, John has established Maverick Angels chapters in Southern California and Europe. John is an expert in the areas of innovation, leadership, and entrepreneurship and often serves as a featured speaker at innovation conferences and angel investor forums.
INDUSTRY Advertising/Marketing A Q&A with Scott Harris President Mustang Marketing
What’s the future of marketing in 2010 and how is it different than what we have seen? Clients have become more aggressive with their marketing budgets and plans than at any point in recent years. Smart companies are demanding more accountability and expect a measurable return on investment. How would you advise businesses to maximize their marketing dollar during this time of economic recovery? Plan! Do not invest a dollar in marketing until you have a clear understanding of the goals (quantifiable), the audience (usually multiple), the message (refined for each audience), and the vehicles. Any other thoughts on 2010 that you would like to share? Predictions? 2010 is the year of opportunity. Change creates opportunity and strong companies, with strong leaders and bold efforts, will reap the benefits. As a C-level executive, this is your opportunity and your responsibility.
INDUSTRY Hospitality A Q&A with Amy Commans General Manager Westlake Village Inn
Where do you see the travel industry going in 2010? Conservative predictions indicate the travel industry is in for another challenging year as a whole. Corporate travel has been hit the hardest. From Wall Street to small local businesses it is imperative to re-bolster their confidence in the economy before we will see a return to the seasoned road warrior and the business as usual activity we have enjoyed in the past. Local economic indicators are encouraging with the 101 corridor offering a resilient and desirable location for business headquarters, relocation of families, superior educational institutions and a well-rounded commerce to support both local and international businesses. What does the Inn do to provide ‘added-value’ to its business travelers and/or weekend guests? In place of boxy, windowless rooms that are typical of large chain hotels, the Westlake Village Inn offers intimate spaces filled with natural light and European touches with views of botanical gardens, water features and private patios. We offer complimentary parking throughout the Inn, free Wi-Fi property-wide, a full hot breakfast weekdays, and European continental breakfast on the weekends. Our Villa-esque lobby exudes the warmth of a large living room in the south of France with fresh fruit, French lemonade, and cappuccino’s to welcome you 24 hours a day. As an individually owned property, we set our own standards rather than following a corporate formula which allows the Inn to be uniquely flexible with each guest or companies needs and budget. There is nothing cookie cutter about the Inn. With over 40 years in the community, we offer sustainable relationships with clients of every size and origin. What excites you about the year ahead? The simplicity that it is a NEW year! There is something very cathartic and cleansing about a new calendar year. It offers us all a fresh start, clean slate, new beginning, and a chance to re-think the way we all do business with each other. No barriers. Like I tell my staff, “focus on building bridges, not walls.” In particular, we are extremely excited about the addition of our new vineyard and organic herb garden. Come visit the Inn… our grapes would like to meet you!
CSQMag.com | 25
c-suite quarterly
visi o n a r i e s
Hidden Hillsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;
Robert Yallen President, Inter/Media Group By Jackie Lapin
T
here may have been no better training for business than being an all-American sprinter to succeed at a top level, with tremendous pressure from competitors who received Olympic-caliber training. Yet Robert Yallen not only succeeded on a stratospheric level in sports, he went on to do it in business, building a nearly half-billion dollar media and marketing organization, the largest of its type in the Western U.S. The Inter/Media Group of Companies® have sprinted to the top on innovation, initiative, creativity, clout, and sheer drive… the same drive that powered Yallen to the top of the All-American rankings. The company today counts among its clients the U.S. Army, Neutrogena, Johnson and Johnson, Ubisoft, Budget Blinds, Biotab Nutraceuticals, Video Professor, Marinello Schools of Beauty, Caribbean Cruise Lines, and Corinthian Colleges, among others. The cornerstone of the company’s business has been blending direct response advertising with general market resources and techniques. Yallen, who resides in Hidden Hills, was one of the first to perceive the value of direct-response advertising—which requires an 800-number or Website call-to-action—for major brands as a cost-effective marketing strategy, and then began mining that territory for business. Until then, direct response was solely perceived by business and the TV viewers as late-night sales of slicers and ab rollers—the home of pitchmen such as Ron Popeil. But Yallen had a bigger vision. He perceived that traditional advertising failed to ask for the sale in strong enough terms and that direct-response could be adapted for major advertisers to deliver powerful and media-efficient brand messaging, as well as product sales. The rest is history. What began as one single advertising agency has now morphed into 10 unique business units, each operating both independently and synergistically. Yallen is a revered and feared competitor in the business and despite the difficult times of the past year that has thrashed the advertising world, he has kept Inter/Media, which is headquartered in Encino, thriving against tough odds. Relaxing in his office surrounded by family photos, display of client products, and an array of sports and business awards, Yallen radiates energy. It is clear he relishes his work and the opportunity to make Inter/Media a leader in its field. Two factors have fueled the 52-year-old Yallen’s success—focus and family. He demonstrates an innate ability to laser in on the components of a challenge and to innovate solutions to resolve complex issues. Equally important has been the family legacy that inspired and equipped him for the leadership of an industry-leading company. Yallen joined the firm initially established by his father in 1981 after completing his undergraduate degree at Cal State Northridge. He then went on to get his law degree from Southwestern University
and pass the bar before joining the firm full-time. After first learning the business from the ground up, Yallen became president, demonstrating exceptional proficiency in new business development, operations, and the ability to create additional revenuegenerating business units. During the period of the company’s rapid growth, Yallen’s father, Sydney, served as CEO until his death in February 2009. But it was more than passing the baton; father and son worked in hand-in-hand to grow the company. “My father was an advertising and media icon. He was my partner, my best friend, my mentor, and the company financier. Losing him was a tremendous loss both personally and professionally. It’s my role to continue to grow what he envisioned for us,” says Yallen. Yallen comes by his advertising genes naturally. A media innovator since the late 40s, Syd Yallen originally began work in the broadcast and advertising industries at the age of 13 as a part-time office boy for KFWB radio in Los Angeles. He worked his way up through the news, production, promotion, advertising, and sales departments eventually to station manager at KFWB, which was a station with a music-news-sports format that ranked fifth in the greater Southern California market. In 1958, Yallen introduced “Color Radio-Fabulous 40” to the Southern California listeners, which was at the time the most successful advertising promotion campaign ever conducted by a radio station. In only five weeks, KFWB became the number one radio station in Southern California. After another 16 years in radio and television syndication and media buying, Syd launched Inter/Media. “My dad started the company in 1974 as a media buying service,” says Yallen. “The traditional model of an advertising agency at the time was full service including creative, but he foresaw that many companies didn’t require the spectrum of full service, and thus, didn’t need to pay the full 15% commission. He pioneered the concept of an agency solely engaged in media buying, which then could charge a fee for service at less than 15%. “Inter/Media evolved over the years because we discovered that our clients wanted more. When I came in and started pitching business, I realized it was often easier to pitch creative, because it was more engaging to the client. So our first venture was to create a production company, rather than go outside for that ability. When it became apparent that production was moving to a new digital format, we created a digital post-production company, which not only serves our needs, but also has a full slate of its own clients. “We keep adding assets for our clients as we see needs, such as our Inter/Media Interactive® Unit (online services), Media Point Network® (performance-based or per inquiry advertising) and InterQuantum® (retail distribution). We do so because we need an edge for our clients, as well as an advantage in competing for business in the highly competitive advertising marketplace. We’ve created unique media assets like American Target
CSQMag.com | 27
On the Recession
Network™, which allows advertisers to buy cable networks in a customized 55-million-home-footprint at as much as 80% less than network equivalents. No other media organization can offer the ROI and cost-efficient footprint of ATN, and you can only buy it from us. “Technology is another asset. Our InfoTech Development™ is another prime example everything is driven by technology with our clients. Having customizable technology makes sure that we can maximize the client’s expenditure. One of our proprietary technologies is AccuTrak®. We use it to determine the effectiveness of every advertising dollar. Everything we do involves tracking analysis and optimization--which media are drawing, which spot is working, what offer gets the greatest response? We’ve spent millions of dollars to create a program that delivers real-time, valuable data, and allows us to put money where it optimizes the investment. We have another program, IQ Plus®, which looks at the exact levels of media to run to support retail sales when you are rolling out a product in stores all across the country. “These are the kind of factors that have set Inter/Media apart, and that’s how we’ve become more than an advertising agency. By being a half billion dollar media and marketing group of companies, we can de-commoditize what we do and take it out of the realm of just paying for media time. We are building a synergistic group of companies that continue our legacy of bringing added value to our clients.” The legacy, it appears, will not end with Robert Yallen. Daughter Lindsay Fontaine has joined Inter/Media as a media buyer and is already making her mark. “Lindsay brings a new perspective to our organization and a tremendous skill set of valuable business and marketing assets. She has brought great vision and an innovative Gen Y approach to media buying, laying the groundwork for her long-term growth in the company, ” says Yallen.
One of the reasons the company has weathered the financial downturn has been its diversification. And some of its resiliency has been the kind of clients it serves. Says Yallen, “Many of our clients thrive in an economic downturn. For instance, our client Corinthian Colleges, which offers post-secondary education career training, does well in a recession because people lose jobs and need to retrain. But economic times like this are often good for our business—as well as our clients. Media units are treated just like any product – all based upon inventory levels. The only distinction is that at the end of every day – whatever inventory remains unsold – evaporates not unlike Cinderella’s mythical carriage that turns into a pumpkin at midnight. Therefore, our model is based upon obtaining remnant media time – unsold inventory -- at significantly reduced rates. Further, as media becomes more fragmented with a multitude of media choices, there is more inventory and thus we are able to buy better.” For Yallen, this is also a time to investment spend for Inter/ Media’s future. Instead of cutting back like a lot of company CEO’s today, Yallen sees this as a time to grab market share. He has hired a top VP from another leading agency to head sales across all companies and opened a New York office. Yallen reports that Inter/Media has had one of its best years ever, and has recently won a $20 million account for a Neutrogena brand competing against 12 agencies. With vision and confidence, he is leading the company through a five-year plan that will lay the groundwork for future expansion in client service, advertising innovation, and client acquisition.
On Breakthrough Advertising Over the past eight years, Inter/Media has been presented more than 75 prestigious advertising awards. When prompted, Yallen points to programs he considers two of the company’s showcase successes. The first is ExtenZe®, male enhancement products. “We built the brand over seven years,“ says Yallen. “Initially this client started off running inexpensive infomercials on very small stations. As we planned an infomercial roll-out and expansion into traditional commercial length media, our initial challenge was getting station’s ‘Standards and Practices’ to accept the advertising because of the sensitivity to the category; plus the name of the product created even more resistance. But through a tremendous amount of media optimization and tenacity, we have succeeded in landing the top spot for EztenZe® in the 2009 ranking of direct-response TV commercials. We’ve also taken the brand into
the retail channel through our InterQuantum subsidiary. ExtenZe® has become a mainstream brand carried in more than 40,000 store locations. Getting it into Wal-Mart, the ultimate family store, I believe is a major coup. Then you add in CVS, Rite Aid, GNC, and Walgreens. It’s now a $150 million brand. And our entertainment division just signed former two-time Super Bowl winning coach and broadcaster Jimmy Johnson as the brand’s main spokesman. “One of our other great success stories is BreathAsure. We worked with the founders Anthony and Lauren Raissen, who are now our partners in InterQuantum. The BreathAsure campaign was highly innovative for the time. We involved radio personalities around the country and used George Kennedy as the spokesperson. In order to telescope the growth process, we maximized the efficiency of the direct-response channel income while at the same time building brand awareness, the combination of which drove distribution and finally trial at retail. That company grew to $40 million a year in sales in less than two years.”
On What It Takes to Stay at the Top Staying on top in today’s economic climate is never easy, but Yallen says that his competitive background has been the key. “You can spend hundreds of thousands of dollars to pitch a new prospect at this level of advertising and marketing, and you have to use every competitive edge to vanquish your competitors,” he says. “I get so passionate about winning a new piece of business! You have to really understand how to compete, often hit unreasonable deadlines, come up with a creative edge – something that your competitors won’t offer -- and you have to be willing to work till 2 a.m. knowing that the prospect will throw curve balls at you at the last minute.” As an all-American sprinter, Yallen took his athletic background to compete under extreme circumstances and pressure, and redirected it into the other aspects of his life, applying the same disciplines. For example, he made law school into a competition— with goals, objectives, and tactics, evaluating his competition for the top grades. He then translated that commitment into business. “That’s one reason I like to hire athletes; they know how to compete,” Yallen says. “The advice I would offer anyone is to learn how to focus with passion….how to commit yourself, come up with a plan, and make quick decisions.”
On Looking Back and Looking Ahead In retrospect, Yallen says, there are a few things he might do differently if he were to do it over again. “I’d have more faith that everything will have a positive outcome. I would have diversified Inter/Media earlier, and I personally would have acquired greater financial skills,” he notes. “Finance is the root of everything. We could have been bigger and better sooner. Once we reached $100 million, growth became exponentially faster due to an array of resources and financing options that we had developed. We were thus now able to attract larger more mainline clients as well as diversify into various synergistic business units. What also
separates our organization from other companies in our space is that I am a business person first and foremost. This has helped our clients in that we run everything from building blocks of their metrics. It’s also provided the drive to diversify into new non-media areas – such as real estate, which has now moved our organization into more of a holding company structure “But I’m really proud of we’ve done it and that we achieved this ourselves, without going public or selling out to one of the major conglomerates. My goal is to become a billion-dollar company within the next five years, and we are half-way there. But I’d also like to grow our non-profit, the Inter/Media Foundation so we can continue to give back to the community and people who are less fortunate. We have the assets to help an organization that has a celebrity spokesperson do TV and radio campaigns at no cost to the charity. We’re still seeking to assist more organizations that fit into that framework. “Today, I’m very confident about meeting clients’ expectations, however, my main challenge is managing the very large overhead because we tend to over-service our clients. We have to make sure that we have the right people with the right resources to do a great job and still be profitable. Making sure we are meeting our financial obligations and collecting receivables is very stressful. We have a lot of employees and an army of lawyers, financial advisors, and other specialists to support us.” Yallen releases his stress by riding horseback on the trails around Hidden Hills with his wife, Linda. He also takes an avid interest in his son Jordan’s sports career. Jordan was a highly regarded high school baseball star who was drafted last year by the Chicago White Sox, and true to family form, is known for his blazing speed. The outfielder elected to accept a college scholarship at Gonzaga, and when he’s home from school, father and son take swings in their backyard batting cage. All four of the family work out with their son’s strength coach to stay in shape. And the entire family shares Robert’s enthusiasm for collecting sports memorabilia and art. But the one hobby that he keeps for himself is collecting and driving elegant sports cars. For Yallen, the backbone of his achievement has been family. “My father was my role model and a key part of my success. But another critical reason for my achievement has been my wife, Linda. She is entrepreneurial herself, running a successful physical therapy practice, and she is my greatest source of support. And now with my daughter Lindsay coming into the business, I will be able to rely upon her to diversify and grow the business just as my dad did with me.”
About Inter/Media Group* REvenue $450,000,000 % Growth 2006-2008 28.57 # of Employees 80 Industry Full service advertising agency specializing in direct response Website intermedia-advertising.com *All statistics as of 2008
CSQMag.com | 29
c-suite quarterly
d e s t i n at i o n s
Carioca Calling!
Why wait for Carnival and the 2016 Summer Olympics when Rio de Janeiro flows year-round with alluring color, chic, cocktails, and culture! By Elyse Glickman
The view from a suite at the Hotel Intercontinental
30 | CSQMag.com
R
io is most identified by the Sanctuary of Christ the Redeemer at Corcovado Mountain and Pão de Açúcar/Sugar Loaf Mountain. Both stunning locales are can’t miss, whether you’re a hiker or history buff. However, it is also interesting to note that even with the recent anointment as the 2016 Olympic city, the Rio Convention & Visitors Bureau works hard to let people know visiting Rio is as glamorous a place as decades of Hollywood movies have promised. Since 1923, the “it” hotel has been The Copacabana Palace, immortalized in the Fred Astaire/Ginger Rogers musical Flying Down to Rio. Its legend looms so large, in fact, the venue is often sold out. That said, there are many other chic lodging options that offer different ways to experience the city. The Leblon neighborhood has its 21st century answer to the Palace in the Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro, resplendent in mid-century modern design and interpreted by Brazilian designer Sergio Rodrigues, melded with the magic touch of Phillippe Starck. The rooftop pool bar, cocktails, and views, likewise, are to die for. Though the InterContinental Rio is a little off the main drag (a 30 to 45-minute jaunt to Ipanema and Copacabana), it is ideal for meetings and conventions, with the added appeal of being on the edge of posh residential São Conrado, a stone’s throw from one of the city’s best malls, a sprawling beachfront, and picture postcard vistas. In addition to brunch, the hotel offers a hearty Feijoada (a stew of beans with beef and pork), served in a clay pot with sausage, bacon, carne seca (dried meat), pork loin, and other manly delights. In the other direction (literally and figuratively) the Hotel Santa Teresa offers a foray into Rio’s artier side. While the hilltop location boasts views of Guanabara Bay, Corcovado, and a touch of the
CSQMag.com | 31
c-suite quarterly
rainforest, the space and eco-friendly approach to décor, food, and spa makes one forget he is in one of the largest cities in the world. Colonial architecture is retrofitted with handcrafted accents from the Amazon, Pará, Minas Gerais, and Brazil’s Northeast to mirror the neighborhood’s multi-cultural vibe. It is also proximate to live music epicenter Lapa via the impressive Selaron Staircase or the neighborhood’s Yellow Trolley. To get the Carnival experience off-season, try to connect with locals, who may squire you to Lapa’s Rio Scenarium (a three-level antique emporium turned live music club, bar, and steakhouse); the Salgueiro Samba School, to see a 3,000-person strong dance rehearsal; Sambadrome, to try on some of the costumes for a couple of bucks; and City of Samba, where floats and dreams are constructed. With sports becoming the city’s economic savior in the current millennium, a visit to Maracana Stadium, a shrine to soccer, is a mind-blower, especially for those with an early case of Olympic fever. Speaking of mind-blowing, cachaça (rum’s wild cousin) has put Brazil on the map for mixology enthusiasts and foodies. While Leblon, Sagatiba, and Cabana introduced the curious to the spirit, you’ve not really had cachaça until you pay a visit to Leblon’s Academia de Cachaça. The neighborhood pub/museum hybrid stocks a selection of rare and artisanal varieties so prolific that the owners took over a second restaurant space next door. Whether you take your spirit in shots or in an exotic cocktail, you will take away knowledge you can use to impress your friends at bars back home. Academia de Cachaça’s food is rich and substantial, as to be expected from a country where it is said cows sometimes outnumber people. Steak lovers should also not miss out on enjoying the churascuria in its native habitat, and Porcão is the place to do it. Dining out in Rio, however, should not be just about The Presidential Suite at the Hotel Intercontinental
The Sanctuary of Christ the Redeemer
bountiful portions. Tia Penha offers extraordinary Portuguesestyle seafood, while trendy Gula Gula has a fun do-it-yourself approach to tailoring a meal from appetizers to main courses. Want a hangout with interesting pizza? Head to Garota de Ipanema, inspired by the same woman who inspired the famous song and operates a swimwear boutique next door. While Palaphita Kitsch’s Amazon-inspired food may be an acquired taste for some, the caipirinhas and chic outdoor lounge are sure-fire. In downtown Rio, minutes from the city’s cultural institutions, cathedrals, and Carmen Miranda Museum, the towering 1894 landmark Columbo Coffee House feels like a great ocean liner of the age, down to its sensational buffet and coffee. Sanctuary of Christ the Redeemer notwithstanding, it is interesting to note the headquarters of jeweler-to-the-stars H. Stern—a mix of jewelry emporium, gemology museum, and workshop—is Rio’s fourth most popular attraction. While visitors will be fascinated by impressive gems on display, others will appreciate the first-hand look at the hard work craftsmen put into pieces coveted by the likes of Sarah Jessica Parker and Angelina Jolie. “Mr. Stern wanted to transform the act of selling into a memorable experience visitors can keep with them forever,” quips H. Stern spokesperson Marcelo Novaes, who offers serious shoppers a caipirinha before they enter the museum-cum-luxury shopping destination. To sharpen your knowledge of Rio’s many gems, visit www.rioconventionbureau.com.br As the business class section of TAM Airlines (now the official airline of Brazil) is particularly superb, samba to www.tam.com.br
32 | CSQMag.com
CSQMag.com | 33
c-suite quarterly
d e s t i n at i o n s
48 Hour Getaway
Toujour LasVegas A City Redefined By Diane Sukiennik and Michael Reiss
CityCenter at night
34 | CSQMag.com
Las Vegas is on a perpetual roll, reinventing itself faster than you can say “blackjack.” Whether it’s a first time visit or another quick getaway on “the strip that never sleeps,” there’s plenty to seduce your senses. Besides being the gaming capital of the world, Las Vegas now competes for world-class status in architecture, lodging, entertainment, spas, shopping, dining, and late night clubbing. Although true high roller status must be conferred, a discerning visitor can experience luxury in plush surroundings and experience a service level formerly reserved for royalty. All this is part of the new value proposition that is Las Vegas. Besides the buzz of Wynn’s Encore Las Vegas (with it’s ultimate nightclub XS), get ready to explore the newly-opened CityCenter, an urban community destined to refine and redefine Las Vegas.
Mandalay Bay, Bellagio, MGM Grand
“CityCenter bridges the vitality of Las Vegas with what the experienced travelers seek when they visit great cities around the world, whether it be London, Hong Kong, or San Francisco – spectacular architecture, culturally significant art, great public spaces, sophisticated hotels, unique restaurants, and incredible amenities,” says Bobby Baldwin, president and CEO of CityCenter. “It is an evolutionary destination that aims to transform Las Vegas as a new symbol at its core, like the Guggenheim in Bilbao, the Pompidou in Paris, or the Sony Center in Berlin.” Settle into ARIA Resort & Casino, a stunning architectural masterpiece which features the most technologically advanced guestrooms in the country. Upon entering you are “greeted,” as curtains open, lights turn on, and the television displays a menu of preferences. Wake up to controlled temperature, preferred music, or TV channels and the opening of curtains. One touch can makeover the entire room; the “good night” button turns everything off – from TV and music to lights – as the privacy notification turns on. Or check into Vdara, an all-suite hotel and spa designed for those who prefer to enjoy Las Vegas in an exclusive, non-gaming, and smoke-free environment. Physically connected to the Bellagio Hotel and directly adjacent to ARIA Resort & Casino, Vdara affords access to all of the amenities of CityCenter and Las Vegas, while offering an oasis of cool, contemporary chic. After exploring your sleek, sensual digs, allow your concierge Cirque du soleil’s tribute to Elvis
to book spa, dining, golf, or entertainment to fit between your shopping and gaming. Catch a performance of Cirque du Soleil’s latest extravaganza, a tribute to the music and mystique of Elvis Presley, permanently housed in the specially designed theater at Aria Resort and Casino. Plan time for admiring the monumental sculpture, people watching, shopping, and savoring the succulent tastes of the culinary masters including Beso, an authentic Latin steakhouse – all located at The Crystals – a 500,000 square foot exclusive shopping enclave that is part of CityCenter. Before you bid adieu to the city on The Strip, catch a cab or stroll by some of the iconic structures that make Las Vegas one of a kind, stop to watch the waterworks at Bellagio, and look up at the cranes, because, sure enough, the next time you visit, Las Vegas will have introduced a new addition to dazzle and delight.
MGM/Mirage Vegas Powerhouse MGM Mirage, led by Kirk Kerkorian’s Tracinda Group, has been accumulating properties and despite the economy, been leading new development in Las Vegas. stock Symbol: MGM 52 Wk Range (2009): $1.81 - $14.25 Las Vegas Properties CityCenter, Aria, Bellagio, Vdara, Mgm Grand, Mandalay Bay, The Mirage, Monte Carlo, New York-New York, Luxor, Excalibur, Circus Circus
Aria, home to Haze Nightclub
A few nighttime destinations in Vegas sure to entertain & impress Lavo in the Palazzo Italian Restaurant & Nightclub CSQ Contact: Maty Yuriditsky, GM 702.791.1818 www.lavolv.com Haze in the Aria at CityCenter Nightclub CSQ Contact: Chris Waage, VIP Host 702.875.1289 www.hazelv.com
For more infomration visit www.citycenter.com
CSQMag.com | 35
c-suite quarterly
c i t ys ui t e
CSQ Citysuite
The Peninsula Beverly Hills A Heavenly Hideaway By Elyse Glickman
36 | CSQMag.com
Garden Suite Patio
everly Hills is the epicenter of what most people consider old school Hollywood glamour, and it exists in many sumptuous forms. While the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel screams, “I have arrived” from a small hilltop just north of Sunset Boulevard, The Peninsula Beverly Hills does it more discreetly at the intersection of Wilshire and Santa Monica Boulevards. Though it is a short walk from Rodeo Drive shopping and the showier movie set that is The Regent Beverly Wilshire Hotel, The Peninsula is an ivy-covered haven that one may accidentally drive by if blinking at the wrong moment. This hidden quality suits The Peninsula Beverly Hills just fine—a major selling point that has likely made it a desirable spot for exclusive charity galas, A-list only pre-award show parties and gifting suites, and celebrity photo shoots. The European-style hotel blends so seamlessly with the surrounding neighborhood, that the grandeur of the its interior still sneaks up on you when entering the lobby be it for the 10th or 100th time. Since 1991, The Peninsula Beverly Hills has stayed enduringly successful through this recipe, blending together old Hollywood opulence with modern comforts and the privacy that is in such short supply in the TMZ era.
c-suite quarterly
c i t ys ui t e
The Rooftop Pool at The Peninsula Beverly Hills
A Breath of Fresh Air By design, The Peninsula is intended to attract a certain type of client cheerfully willing to pay for the best-of-the-best elegance, hands-on attention, and privacy. That philosophy extends throughout the hotel and to the pool area, freshly renovated by Cheryl Rowley Design, whose luxury property spreads have been showcased in Architectural Digest. The pool is technically open only to hotel guests and their parties, and those who reserve the pool for business or philanthropic events. Savvy, fast-track Angelinos, however, always knows there is an “insider’s tip” that can get them access to the most exclusive domain. In the case of the Peninsula’s pool, if you book a later dinner at the adjoining Roof Garden (at least 24 hours in advance and based upon availability), you can request to dine in a cabana at no extra charge. From there, it is up to you how you fill out a romantic night in Beverly Hills or charm the socks off your friends or colleagues.
Dim Sum and Then Some The Peninsula also boasts The Club Bar, The Living Room, and The Belvedere, all capitalizing on the talents of Executive Chef James Overbaugh and his team, as well as the jewel-box qualities of the hotel’s architecture and interior design. While a contemporary/market driven menu helps bolster the profile of The Belvedere (the only hotel restaurant in Southern California to earn the AAA Five Diamond award for the twelfth consecutive year), The Living Room and The Club Bar manage to have a warm, homey quality that make them ideal spots to host informal business chats or just catch up on things outside the office. Thanks to its welcoming ambiance, The Peninsula Beverly Hills is well-suited for large formal business gatherings, with over 3,892 square feet of meeting and event space, providing the flexibility for every type of event from presentations to product launches to lavish formal galas. Even with its capacity to entertain big, however, there is always something new and enticing to help savvy guests mix business and pleasure.
38 | CSQMag.com
This fall, for example, The Peninsula rolled out its Chocolate Dim Sum menu, created by Overbaugh and Executive Pastry Chef Miguel Torres. This temptation consists of crisp dumplings stuffed with dark chocolate, or white chocolate with a hint of citrus-creamcheese flavor; dipping sauces of passion fruit, orange-raspberry and ginger-caramel; and green tea ice cream. With a nod to its Asian roots, the The Peninsula Beverly Hills also offers authentic savory dim sum conceived by Chef Jimmy Chiu, a Hong Kong native who honed his culinary skills in and around the flagship Peninsula Hong Kong. This exotic adjunct is available in-room, in The Club Bar, and in The Living Room, where new resident pianist Antonio Castillo de la Gala entertains from 7:30 p.m. until midnight. The Belvedere restaurant, AAA Five Diamond ranked
A Global Village The guest-only areas of the hotel are feasts for the other senses, with their artful blend of Asian and European design and amenities. The Peninsula Spa and Health Club, for example, incorporates cutting-edge treatments (such as new acupuncture facials and exclusive Shiffa precious gemstone treatments) with the finest therapists, equipment, and products which has made it one of the top day spas in the U.S. by top travel magazines. It also rolls out glamorously into the pool area, where fresh fruit cocktails (nonalcoholic and otherwise) are blended on-the-spot and to order. The hotel also offers a decadent variety of complimentary chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royces and Lexus sedans to squire guests to the best of what Beverly Hills has to offer. The Peninsula Beverly Hills 9882 South Santa Monica Boulevard Beverly Hills, CA 90212 310.551.2888 www.peninsula.com CSQ Contact: Offer Nissenbaum, General Manager
West Hollywood Dining
STK Throws the Steakhouse a Curve By Elyse Glickman
H
ollywood steakhouse STK’s glamorous hook is its more seductive, femme approach to framing its substantial fare, from mod interiors to graceful food presentation. Like many a Hollywood starlet, it has a catchy tag line, “Not your father’s steakhouse,” and a personality that is in keeping with it. Then again, The One Group’s dining ventures do not bear the aggressively masculine vibe of rustic hunting lodges or clubby, oldschool boardroom steakhouses. With both the interior design and menu, STK follows its parent company’s lead with their design and menu that make the steakhouse experience modern and inclusive. Transforming the steakhouse concept into something visually light and fresh, it makes it an unexpected but natural fit for a post-work meeting spot (with a delightful happy hour), a place to connect with out-of-town guests (with its intimate nooks and quietly chic décor), or a romantic dinner (to which the building’s architecture lends itself). STK’s menu leaves no doubt that the kitchen produces elegant comfort food and not spa cuisine. However, the salads and appetizers are far more exciting, textured, and flavorful than their names (Garden Salad, Arugula Salad) would suggest. Chef Todd Mark Miller delights the palate with unexpected ingredients and combinations that work. The same holds true for sides such as the chunky truffle/parmesan fries, the insanely decadent corn pudding,
chunky Truffle / Parmesan Fries with dipping sauce
mac-and-cheese, spicy broccolini, STK-LA and mixed mushrooms. 755 N La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90069 The proteins, while prepared 310.659.3535 simply and cleanly, have a creative www.stkhouse.com extra touch that puts the flavor profile over the edge. The red snapper Hours of Operation becomes sublime with brown butter Sun/Mon 6pm-11pm and crispy ponzu-shiitake feathers. Tue/Wed/Thu A petit filet or porterhouse comes 6pm-11:30pm alive with a dip of the house STK Fri/Sat 6pm-12:30am sauce, blue cheese dip, mustard, or Ownership garlic butter. While desserts lean The One Group toward a home-made feel at most www.theonegroup.com steakhouses (and this holds true for the popular deep-dish chocolate Other aligned brands chip cookie), other selections are ONE (NY, LA, LV), Coco De seductively skewed, such as the Ville (LA, MIA), Bagatelle (NY, apple and tiramisu. Even the dinner Turks & Caicos), Tenjune (NY), Kiss & Fly (NY), RDV (NY), rolls have a certain sex appeal— Plunge (NY, Mia), Gansevoort alluring, petit, and aglow with buttery goodness in the ramekins in (Mia, Turks & Caicos) which they were baked. OTHER STK LOCATIONS While the main dining room New York, Miami, Las Vegas is as delicious as the best items on the menu—from the lapidary-smooth tables to buttery leather seating, STK’s happy hour is a great way to flirt with its dining experience without going all the way. Special prices and portions of the restaurant’s most sizzling specialties such as the STK “Little Macs,” parmesan/truffle fries, and petit portion of short ribs, as well as a changing show of drink specials, is ideal for a shorter encounter. The cocktails, meanwhile, are not just window dressing, with one concoction being better than the next, from the dessert-like Strawberry Cobbler and aptly named Delicious, to savory quenchers such as Green Intensity and The La Cienega.
c-suite quarterly
visi o n a r i e s
A
German-born businessman raised in Italy, Stephan Winkelmann credits his childhood as lending to his Italian tastes. Highly independent, he is not dedicated to a single brand or style. An avid reader, he enjoys collecting books to read, with several hundred in his library. Winkelmann tends to favor books about politics and world history, and cites Ernst von Salomon, Ernst Jünger, and André Malraux among his favorites. On the road, he’s hard-pressed to name a favorite spot as he enjoys experiencing new places. Winkelmann is a political science graduate who later served as a paratrooper in the German Army. Not long after leaving the military, he joined Mercedes-Benz, the beginning of a long and sucessful career in the automotive industry. In 1994, he became area sales manager for the Alfa Romeo brand within Fiat Auto-Germany. He would later become Fiat’s head of marketing for their southern region.
40 | CSQMag.com
During his tenure, he worked at Fiat Auto S.p.A. in Turin in marketing and sales management for Alfa Romeo, responsible for the launch of the Alfa 156. He went on to become the area manager for several markets in Europe. After working as a board member for sales at Fiat Auto Austria, Winkelmann was appointed chairman of the board at Fiat Auto Austria and Fiat Auto Switzerland. In 2004, after taking several weeks to mull over the offer, he accepted the position of Chairman of the Board of Fiat Automobil AG in Germany. On January 1, 2005, Stephan Winkelmann was appointed President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A. in Sant’Agata Bolognese (Italy).
Stephan Winkelmann
CEO Lamborghini S.p.A.
CSQMag.com | 41
c-suite quarterly
What sets Lamborghini apart from its competition? Lamborghini is unlike any other vehicle in the super sports car segment. The design of each of our cars is completely unique to its brand; each one extreme, uncompromising, and unmistakably Italian. Each model is conceptualized by our design team at the Lamborghini factory in Sant’Agata, Bolognese. The way our cars feel on the road is also very specific to the brand due to the performance capabilities and four-wheel drive system.
What are you doing to continue growing the brand and the company? With that in mind, how are you navigating the economy both domestically (US) and internationally? Lamborghini is investing in new technologies as well as research and development. We recently formed a partnership with the University of Washington and The Boeing Company to streamline the development of carbon fiber materials through research and testing learned from their experience in the aviation industry. We have high hopes this research will revolutionize the materials we use to construct our cars to increase the power-to-weight ratio and reduce vehicle emissions. We continue to build the brand by introducing the most exciting super sports car offering to date. In 2009, Lamborghini introduced four new limited edition models: Lamborghini Reventón Roadster, Murciélago LP 650-4 Roadster, Murciélago LP 670-4 SV (the most powerful Lamborghini to date), and the Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni – the first rear-wheel drive Lamborghini in more than a decade.
The key to navigating our business through the economic crisis is to continue building a strong worldwide dealer network with an exclusive product offering to maintain a high demand.
What should we expect from both Lamborghini and the luxury car market in 2010? Lamborghini is not immune to the economic crisis and expect this year will continue to bring challenges. We do not anticipate the luxury market to begin recovery until at least 2011, although emerging economies have seen signs of growth. We will remain optimistic and committed to our long-term strategy of announcing at least one new model per year.
How do you define success? To me, success is defined by a life well lived. Allowing yourself to stay very busy but also have the right balance to enjoy your spare time to me is successful and fulfilling.
FAVORITES Suit I have a tailor in Italy (Torino) who does my suits; they’re not tied to any brand. Timepiece Currently, it’s the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Car (not Lamborghini) Audi S8 Lamborghini Matte Black Gallardo LP 560-4 Travel Destination The beaches in Italy, especially islands like Sardinia
c-suite quarterly
h e alt h & w e ll ne ss
Soy
Clearing Up the Controversies By Alan Aragon
The soy bean, also called soya bean, is a legume native to East Asia. It was introduced to the United States in the mid 1700s but has been consumed throughout Asia long before written records. In more recent times, soy has gained a dual-reputation of being a “health” food as well as some sort of evil thing to avoid. In this article, I’ll look at the common positive and negative lore behind soy and clear up the confusion with current research-based evidence.
Does soy have feminizing effects on men? Soy contains isoflavones, which have potentially estrogenic effects. This has raised the concern that men consuming soy might experience adverse hormonal changes. A recent meta-analysis (systematic examination of multiple studies) by Johns Hopkins University researchers found that neither soy foods nor isoflavone supplements significantly alter testosterone levels in men [1]. Of interest to the athletic population, 12 weeks of supplementation with soy protein did not decrease testosterone levels or hinder lean body mass gains in men engaged in a resistance training program [2]. Therefore, the evidence does not support the idea that soy is likely to cause feminizing effects in men. Does soy protect against breast cancer in women? Breast cancer rates among women in Asian countries are substantially lower than those among women in Western countries. This has lead to a lot of investigation of dietary factors that might be involved. Since soy is a staple food throughout Asia, it’s under ongoing study as a possible protective food. Three separate meta-analyses came to the similar conclusion that soy intake may be associated with a decreased risk of breast cancer [3-5]. Although this area of study has been focused on postmenopausal women, there’s fairly strong research evidence that soy is protective against breast cancer in premenopausal women as well [6]. Does soy protect against prostate cancer? Prostate cancer is the leading type of cancer in men, occurring mostly in the older population. The most recent meta-analyses involving various study designs show that consumption of soy foods is associated with a reduction in prostate cancer risk in men [7,8].
Does soy adversely affect thyroid function? A comprehensive literature review done by researchers at Loma Linda University concluded that there’s not enough evidence that in iodine-replete individuals with normally functioning thyroids, soy foods, or isoflavones, do not adversely affect thyroid function [9]. However, in hypothyroid patients, some evidence suggests that soy foods taken in excess may increase the dose of thyroid hormone medication required by hypothyroid patients. The review also states that hypothyroid adults need not avoid soy foods completely. Still, there’s a theoretical concern that in individuals with compromised thyroid function, soy foods may increase the risk of developing hypothyroidism. Therefore, it’s important for soy consumers who have known thyroid issues to make sure they moderate their intake of soy. It’s also been suggested to make sure that iodine is adequate, but iodine deficiency is rare in industrialized countries due to enrichments in the food supply. Does soy protect against osteoporosis? The majority of the research done on soy’s effect on bone has been on menopausal women. As indicated by two recent meta-analyses [10,11], the bulk of the evidence shows that the intake of soy increases bone mineral density and stimulates bone formation. Does soy protect against cardiovascular disease? This area of study is not as clear-cut as the rest, since most of it is based on epidemiological studies. This type of research is uncontrolled, and thus it’s limited by many possible unaccounted variables. Nevertheless, soy intake has been positively correlated with the prevention of cardiovascular disease [12]. Part of this mechanism may be attributed to soy isoflavones’ ability to lower LDL and total cholesterol [13]. Tying it together Other than the potential concerns in those with pre-existent hypothyroidism, some individuals are allergic to soy and soy-based products. This is more common in children than adults. Although it’s not common, some individuals might find difficulty digesting soy foods. As well, soy might not suit everyone’s personal taste. Soy has been a staple part of some of the healthiest regions in the world, including Asian Pacific populations like the Okinawans – the longest-living population on the planet. It’s not surprising that research has for the most part supported its numerous health claims, including protection against osteoporosis (in menopausal women), prostate cancer, and breast cancer. Finally, concerns of soy having a testosterone-lowering effect on men have not been solidly supported in the scientific literature. Bottom line: consumption of soy foods as a part of a balanced diet can contribute to good health, and much of indictments by the alarmist media are unfounded. Alan Aragon has over 15 years of success in the fitness field. He currently is the lead nutritionist at Elite Fitness Plus in Westlake Village, California. www.elitefitnessplus.com
Soy has been a staple part of some of the healthiest regions in the world
References Hamilton-Reeves JM, et al. Clinical studies show no effects of soy protein or isoflavones on reproductive hormones in men: results of a meta-analysis. Fertil Steril. 2009 Jun 11. [Epub ahead of print] Kalman D, et al. Effect of protein source and resistance training on body composition and sex hormones. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2007 Jul 23;4:4. Qin LQ, et al. Soyfood intake in the prevention of breast cancer risk in women: a meta-analysis of observational epidemiological studies. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol (Tokyo). 2006 Dec;52(6):428-36. Trock BJ, et al. Meta-analysis of soy intake and breast cancer risk. J Natl Cancer Inst. 2006 Apr 5;98(7):45971. Badger TM, et al. Soy protein isolate and protection against cancer. J Am Coll Nutr. 2005 Apr;24(2):146S149S. Lee SA, et al. Adolescent and adult soy food intake and breast cancer risk: results from the Shanghai Women’s Health Study. Am J Clin Nutr. 2009 Jun;89(6):1920-6. Epub 2009 Apr 29. Yan L, Spitznagel EL. Soy consumption and prostate cancer risk in men: a revisit of a meta-analysis. Am J Clin Nutr. 2009 Apr;89(4):1155-63. Epub 2009 Feb 11. Hwang YW, et al. Soy food consumption and risk of prostate cancer: a meta-analysis of observational studies. Nutr Cancer. 2009;61(5):598-606. Messina M, Redmond G. Effects of soy protein and soybean isoflavones on thyroid function in healthy adults and hypothyroid patients: a review of the relevant literature. Thyroid. 2006 Mar;16(3):249-58. Ma DF, et al. Soy isoflavone intake inhibits bone resorption and stimulates bone formation in menopausal women: meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2008 Feb;62(2):155-61. Epub 2007 Mar 28. Ma DF, et al. Soy isoflavone intake increases bone mineral density in the spine of menopausal women: meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Clin Nutr. 2008 Feb;27(1):57-64. Epub 2007 Dec 11. Rimbach G, et al. Dietary isoflavones in the prevention of cardiovascular disease--a molecular perspective. Food Chem Toxicol. 2008 Apr;46(4):1308-19. Taku K, et al. Effects of extracted soy isoflavones alone on blood total and LDL cholesterol: Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Ther Clin Risk Manag. 2008 Oct;4(5):1097-103.
c-suite quarterly
The Future of You CSQ ADVISOR Daryl Wizelman
S
ome of us spend more time planning our vacations than we do planning or thinking about our future. During Life Planning days, the attendees spend some of the day writing about their one, five, ten, and 20 year vision for their future in each of these key areas of their lives: health, spouse, children, family, career, hobbies, friends, etc. They then create specific, measurable, attainable, reasonable action plans with time frames for each. In effect, they are mapping out their vision of what they want their lives to become and then creating “action plans” to get them from where they are now (in each area) to where they want to be. This process is a successful key in helping the people writing their Life Plan accomplish their goals in the upcoming year(s) and creating a future that is in line with their envisioned one while living an extraordinary life. They are in essence creating “The Future of You.”
Health
Daryl Wizelman is a leadership, corporate culture, emotional intelligence, life planning, and work/ life balance visionary. He speaks to, consults, and motivates companies, associations, professional athletes, professional sports teams, and individuals all over the world. From 1990–2007, Wizelman built, owned, and operated a financial services company with over 550 employees. The company was known for its employee loyalty, abundant culture, and world-class client satisfaction. During this time, he developed the strategies that today make him a sought-after speaker and consultant to a variety of companies, business leaders, athletes, professional sports teams, and associations. Daryl and his wife, Ondrea, have been together since they were 16 and are the parents of 7-yearold boy/girl twins. They live in Calabasas, California. www.darylwizelman.com 818.876.7337 daryl@wizelman.com Blog: www.heartleader.com
46 | CSQMag.com
In prioritizing our lives, the health area can often be one into which we don’t invest enough time and effort. We are busy with work, our children, and all of the other time demands we are faced with in this busy life. Our good health is imperative if we are going to give of ourselves and be “of service” to others. If we are unhealthy, we cannot give 100% to the people we love and work with. How is your fitness level? Your weight? Where are your blood pressure and cholesterol levels? When was your last full physical? This is a very tough area for a lot of people. Approaching improvements to health should be done in very small increments. For example, is there a food that can be cut out of your daily diet to reduce your caloric intake? You might start an exercise routine with one short (20-30 minute) workout each week, then insert a new workout each week for five weeks. After five weeks, exercise will become a 5-day a week discipline. Then, if it is comfortable, the workout can be lengthened. In regard to exercise, do what you enjoy. Some suggestions include walking, running, going to the gym, riding a bike, swimming, lifting weights, and/or playing a sport (tennis, basketball, softball, etc.). Anything to get the heart rate going for 20 minutes or longer is positive. For those who aren’t feeling good physically, maybe due to an ailment or some pain that you have been ignoring, go for a checkup. Ignoring a problem usually doesn’t improve it (that goes for physical as well as emotional problems). As part of creating the extraordinary life we all seek, starting with good health and maintaining it through the year and throughout our life is essential to serving ourselves and the people we care about. Today is a new day, the beginning of a new year, and a new decade. Start slowly and increase the output slowly. We can all make better food choices and exercise more often. Our health is THE most important component to success in every other area of our life. Make the long lasting changes by beginning today.
Your Time and Doing What you are Passionate About Another area many of us are deficient in is taking enough time for ourselves. I refer to this as “you time.” In my talks, I discuss the need to take time for you every day, every week, every month, and every year.
In regard to daily time, it is at least 15 minutes or so each day that we spend doing something for ourselves (reading, working out, Facebooking, reflecting, writing, listening to music, etc.). Take time for yourself every day. With respect to taking time for yourself each week and each month, this ties to a greater hobby/passion that requires more time and focus than 15 minutes each day will allow. If you have already identified this passion, you are ahead of the game. Ensure you take the time you need to be fulfilled in this area of your life. If you have yet to identify your passion, open your periphery to new and exciting opportunities. Rent the movie “Yes Man” and get a sense as to what I am talking about. Say “YES” to every opportunity that comes your way and you will experience more and more; I believe your passion will find you. Ask yourself this key question: What do I do for myself? Write the answer(s) on a piece of paper and pin them to a place where you can reflect on them often. Keep doing the things that bring happiness and joy to your life and find through opportunity those passions you have yet to find. Ideally, we would marry our vocation with our passion and be able to earn a living doing what we love. For some of us, we
are already doing that. For others, we continue to search for our passion. The one area we want to avoid is watching our lives pass and missing out on the LIVING part of living our lives. This won’t be us if we open ourselves to possibilities and opportunities we may have said “no” to in the past or haven’t seen because our eyes were closed to saying “yes.” In closing, the purpose of this article is to focus on “the future of you” and how you will take care of yourself so you can give your best to others. The key areas to examine as a new year and a new decade begin are your health, what you do with your time, and finding passion in your work and your non-work life.
“The one area we want to avoid is watching our lives pass and missing out on the LIVING...”
Bistro Americana
Dine in Style Zin Bistro Americana is located at waters edge right on Westlake Villages private, exclusive lake. The views are breathtaking, the spectacular atmosphere is only secondary to the wonderful dishes and unique drinks. Whether you are looking for a great lunch, or a special dinner, Zin is among the best dining experiences in LA Uptown.
32131 Lindero Canyon Road Westlake Village, CA 91361
(818) 865-0095
c-suite quarterly
Roth IRA Conversions in 2010 CSQ ADVISOR Andrew Levinson, CPA
Andrew Levinson, CPA, is a tax partner with gish SEIDEN LLP, a full-service accounting firm in Warner Center that serves small and medium size businesses, their owners, and high income/high net-worth individuals. Andy has 30+ years experience in accounting, tax planning, tax compliance, and business management. He graduated Cal State Northridge in 1984 and studied at Copenhagen University in Denmark. He is an avid baseball fan and a former scout for the Pittsburgh Pirates.
T
ax year 2010 brings a significant opportunity for many taxpayers. Beginning this year, taxpayers will be able to convert their traditional IRA to a Roth IRA, regardless of their income level or filing status. Furthermore, tax on the taxable income resulting from a 2010 conversion can be deferred until 2011 and 2012. The ability for high-income taxpayers to convert traditional IRAs to Roth IRAs presents tax and retirement planning opportunities. Prior to 2010, only individuals with modified adjusted gross incomes (AGI) of $100,000 or less could convert amounts in their traditional IRAs to Roth IRAs. Moreover, married taxpayers filing separate returns were prohibited from converting. Starting in 2010, the $100,000 AGI limit on conversions of traditional IRAs to Roth IRAs is eliminated completely. This new rule gives everyone the opportunity to convert a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA. Be aware that an IRA conversion is treated as a taxable distribution, taxed as ordinary income at your marginal tax rate. This in effect accelerates the taxable income that you would eventually pay on distributions from a traditional IRA once you retire, but does so in exchange for never having to pay tax on any future appreciation in the value of your account from what it is today. That is often a significant tax advantage. Note that unlike a withdrawal from an IRA, a conversion does not trigger the 10% Federal and 2.5% California early withdrawal penalties. Although conversion to a Roth IRA triggers immediate taxable income, lawmakers have provided a special incentive in 2010 to encourage Roth conversions under the new rules. In 2010 (and 2010 only), taxpayers will have the choice of recognizing their conversion income in 2010 or spreading it evenly between 2011 and 2012. This allows you to pay taxes on the converted amount ratably over two years, instead of recognizing it all as income in one year. However, if you choose to pay tax in 2011 and 2012, you will be taxed on the rates that apply for those years, which are expected to be higher than the rates for 2010, at least for the top two tax brackets. Taxpayers are expected to convert their traditional IRAs to Roth IRAs for a variety of reasons. Roth IRAs have two major advantages over traditional IRAs: • Distributions from Roth IRAs are tax-free if they are qualified distributions. To be qualified, they must be made after a five-year holding period has passed and after the account holder reaches age 59 1/2, or on account of death, disability, or the qualified purchase of a first home. • Roth IRAs are not subject to the required minimum distribution (RMD) rules that apply to traditional IRAs (as well as individual qualified plans). Therefore, a Roth IRA account holder who reaches age 70 1/2 does not need to begin taking distributions; instead, the funds can continue to grow tax free until they are needed or are passed on to heirs. The tax-free nature of qualified Roth IRA distributions may prevent individuals from being taxed in a higher tax bracket that would otherwise apply if they were withdrawing taxable distributions from a traditional IRA. Moreover, these distributions--unlike those from traditional IRAs--do not effect the calculation of tax owed on Social Security benefits and do not affect AGI-based deductions, such as medical expenses or charitable contributions. A traditional IRA to Roth IRA conversion should be considered by individuals who: • Can pay the tax on the converted amounts from non-IRA assets; • Do not anticipate being in a lower tax bracket in the future than they are currently in; and
48 | CSQMag.com
â&#x20AC;˘
Have a significant amount of time before reaching retirement to allow assets to grow tax-free and recoup taxes paid due to the conversion; â&#x20AC;˘ Will have either very little taxable income or a taxable loss in 2010. Financial advisor Brian Oard with BNY/Mellon Wealth Management in Century City says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;No one likes the idea of recognizing losses, but there are ways to minimize the pain and reposition your balance sheet for the future. Conversion of IRA assets to a Roth IRA represents one of these opportunities. But given the complex tax and legal issues, most investors need expert advice to come up with the right solution. â&#x20AC;&#x153;One family, who sold their rental property at a loss, was able to use that loss creatively. By converting all of their Traditional IRA assets into a Roth IRA, they were able to offset taxes they would have owed on the conversion with the loss on the sale of their property. Furthermore, the Roth IRA will now grow tax deferred and come out tax free when the family needs the assets. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Another couple in their late 60â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s are winding down and closing out a retail store that has suffered greatly in the downturn. We worked with their CPA on a multi-year strategy to convert some of
their IRA assets to a Roth IRA, and the amount of tax to be paid will be offset by losses from their business operations. The clients have over $1,000,000 in IRA assets; in 2009 we were able to convert $170,000 at a very low tax rate. In 2010 and 2011 we should be able to convert most of the remaining assets with a minimal tax hit because they will have one more year of business losses. Ultimately, the clients will have less hassle from running a business in retirement and enjoy tax free income when needed. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transfer wealth to your heirs and minimize millions of dollars in wealth transfer taxes.â&#x20AC;? There are a significant number of tax and financial considerations that come into play when determining whether to convert your traditional IRA to a Roth IRA. For example, you might want to convert some, but not all, of your IRA assets to a Roth IRA. Also, the decision to convert will likely be based on assumptions about future income tax rates and rates of return from the investments, that may not turn out as expected. If you have any questions about traditional IRA to Roth IRA conversions and the new 2010 planning opportunity, please contact our office to set up a planning phone call or meeting. ď&#x201A;&#x161;
LOCAL IT OUTSOURCING Complete CTO Outsourcing & 24 x 7 Service
CUT YOUR IT EXPENSE BY AT LEAST 30% t )FMQ %FTL 4FSWJDF t %JTBTUFS 3FDPWFSZ t 7JSUVBM PS -PDBM $50 BOE NPSF PACKAGES STARTING AT $10 PER SEAT! CALL 1 800-608-4693 NOW! ONLINE AT WWW.SERVICORPS.NET
Your Complete Network and Computer Specialists
28230 West Agoura, SuitE s Agoura Hills, California 91301
Ph: 800-608-4693 Fax: 818-475-5267 info@servicorps NET s SErvicorps.net CSQMag.com | 49
c-suite quarterly
The New Gold Rush! CSQ ADVISOR Alan S. Hopkins
Mr. Hopkins joined Manchester Financial, an Investment Counsel, in 1995 as chief financial officer after several years at Charles Schwab & Co. Mr. Hopkins was responsible for developing Schwab’s high networth clients by teaching courses in financial planning, trading techniques, and retirement strategies. Prior to Schwab, Mr. Hopkins was a consultant to the State of California in the takeover of the Executive Life Insurance Company and worked on the merger of Bank of America and Security Pacific’s mutual fund departments. Mr. Hopkins has served on several boards including the Alliance for the Arts and was president of the Wellness Community, a national cancer charity. Mr. Hopkins holds a B.S. and an M.B.A. in Economics and is a member of the Institute of Certified Financial Planners. He and his wife, Kristy, were married in 1990 and have 2 children. Manchester Financial 805.495.4405 www.mfinvest.com
50 | CSQMag.com
A
s California was the home of the original 1849 gold rush, Wall Street is now the cause for the new gold rush. The first one, fueled by greed after the Sutter’s Mill discovery, provided a nation the opportunity to improve one’s lot in life. Today’s gold rush, however, is being fueled by a discerning fear that our lot in life will diminish unless we own gold. This fear is rooted in the hundreds of billions of dollars being created by our government and thereby putting our currency potentially at risk. How did we get into this mess? Contrary to media reports, capitalism has not failed us. No other political/economic system has ever produced so much freedom and opportunity while improving the standard of living for so many people. The terrible economic crisis that hit us in 2008 has crippled the reputation of capitalism, even though the crisis was caused by our government’s actions. We all know that printing too much money is not a good thing, but our government did it anyway, starting at Y2K with concerns about our economy and the new millennium. This led to the tech stock boom, and during the subsequent bust our government created even more money to save us again. This led to the housing boom – the money had to go somewhere! And now, we’ve just gone through our second bust this decade. How has our government decided to fix this one? By giving the addict more drugs! Had the Federal Reserve not created so much money and kept interest rates so low twice this decade, this current crisis would not have been able to develop. All that money needed a home, and it eventually found it in home prices and the exotic securities created by Wall Street. For capitalism, this is merely the failure to handle all the money that government recklessly created. The three largest economic disasters—the 1930’s Great Depression, the 1970’s Great Inflation, and the most recent downturn—were all caused by government economic policy mistakes, but played out in the capital markets, and thus capitalism undeservedly received the media’s blame and the public’s scorn. Now the government has again opened our wallets and spent trillions in new programs and bailouts to “save” us. So, what happened to the money? As for the actual dollars, much of the money went to shore up the banks and financial institutions that made horrible decisions with their cash, refilling their coffers with our money through the government’s TARP and other schemes. While our government has been spending over a trillion dollars to “stimulate” the economy, global equity prices and corporate bond values have surged. However, building on these gains will require the economic recovery to enter a self-sustaining stage and not just be propped up by government intervention. Once the debt comes home to roost, we can all be assured of two things – the United States will be less wealthy than it once was, and assets priced in U.S. dollars will be more expensive. While the United States was the first country to achieve dramatic capitalistic success, free-market reforms have spread the tide of freedom, opportunity, and higher living standards to countries around the globe. Today, economic capitalism is working well in China, India, and Latin America. While it may be true that the capitalistic model is not currently working so well here, that is because, like the proverbial kid next door who doesn’t respect your stuff, our government and Wall Street broke the model over the past decade. Even the communist government of China realizes the power derived from the economic engine of market capitalism.
They are now our main economic competitor, successfully using our own offensive playbook against us, while our government uses France’s misguided playbook as our defense. Our government’s new strategy holds a deep, but incorrect, belief that government can create wealth. It cannot! It can only transfer wealth by taking it away from those who produced it, and giving it to those who did not. Abe Lincoln said, “You can’t make a weak man strong by making a strong man weak.” We believe in the strength of the United States of America. Our greatness lies not in our elected politicians or Wall Street executives that brought us to this point in our history, but in the honest minds and caring hearts of everyday Americans. Until we remember that what really made this country the envy of the world was our sacrifice for a cause bigger than ourselves, we will forever be wandering – searching for a path back to the free market capitalism that created the greatest prosperity the world has ever known.
“While the United States was the first country to achieve dramatic capitalistic success, free-market reforms have spread the tide of freedom, opportunity, and higher living standards to countries around the globe.”
Make sure your trade secrets
[DON’T GET TRADED] While working with start-ups, mid-market businesses or multi-billion dollar multinationals, the lawyers of SoCal IP have protected their clients’ products, brands and business plans for decades. SoCal IP: world class intellectual property law for your world class intellectual property.
Steven C. Sereboff, Esq. ssereboff@socalip.com 805.230.1350 x 220
310 N. WESTLAKE BLVD., SUITE 120 | WESTLAKE VILLAGE, CA 91362-3788 | WWW.SOCALIP.COM
CSQMag.com | 51
c-suite quarterly
Estate Law Repeal CSQ ADVISOR Jeffrey M. Zabner
Jeffrey M. Zabner, Westlake Village, California, is an “AV” rated (Martindale-Hubbell Peer Reviewed as Preeminent) attorney and counselor, accredited as a certified specialist in estate planning, trust and probate law (State Bar of California, Board of Legal Specialization), providing creative solutions and guidance to families, business owners, executives, trustees, and beneficiaries. Contributing Author, Love Money Control – Redefining Estate Planning in the 21st Century (2004, Quantum Press, Denver, CO). CoAuthor, Family Limited Partnerships - a Compendium for Attorneys (1995, WES, LLC, Denver, CO). Author, Incentive Estate Planning , (1993 Personal Financial Planning, Warren Gorham & LaMont, Boston, MA). Admitted to practice law in California, Florida, and Michigan. 805.374.2777 www.zabnerlaw.com
52 | CSQMag.com
T
Upheaval & Opportunities he unthinkable has occurred. Unpredictably, the U.S. Congress has allowed the federal estate tax to expire and fade into tax history – again – for a mere 12 months…unless, of course, Congress decides to change its mind before the end of the year. As of January 1, 2010 and lasting until December 31, 2010, a person who passes away can leave his or her property to anyone he or she chooses without payment of transfer tax (known as “estate tax”). Good news, right? Well, maybe. It depends on what you own, how you own it, and, to a certain extent, if you have adult grandchildren. With the repeal of the estate tax, two other tax rules were also repealed. Before the repeal, beneficiaries of an estate received the inherited assets with a new, stepped-up, tax basis equal to the fair market value of the asset on the day the decedent died. That meant any unrecognized capital gain in the asset was erased as of the date of death. The inheriting beneficiary could sell the asset and compute any gain from the new “stepped-up” basis, unlike a lifetime gift where the gift recipient receives the gifted asset with the donor’s original tax basis. There was, and is, no basis step-up on gifts. Under the current tax scheme, the estate tax (and step-up in basis) returns on January 1, 2011, and it will return at year-2001 levels (i.e., a $1 million exemption and a top tax rate of 55%). Even if Congress acts early in 2010 and attempts to make any changes retroactive to the beginning of 2010, there will undoubtedly be legal challenges in court as to the constitutionality of making the tax fix retroactive to January 1 of this year. Some believe that Congress, some time in this first quarter of 2010, will pass a retroactive law to reinstate the estate tax and step-up in basis. Others believe that Congress will kick the can down the road until late summer and again try to make it retroactive. Still others believe Congress will do nothing and leave the problem for the next Congress which will convene in January 2011. Besides forcing everyone who has a will or a trust to do a review with legal counsel to see what amendments or changes are required by this upheaval in the law, the new set of rules creates a few special opportunities for those who can take advantage. Opportunity No. 1 The repeal of the estate tax also means there is no generation-skipping tax (the flat 50% excise tax imposed on top of estate and gift taxes on large gifts to grandchildren and later generations). Since there is no generation-skipping tax, grandparents can make substantial outright gifts to grandchildren just for the cost of the gift tax. In 2010, the gift tax is a flat 35% - the lowest rate in living memory. Gifts of limited partnership interests or closely held company stock are ideal for this type of gift. This low-rate flat gift tax also makes Qualified Personal Residence Trusts (“QPRTs”) even more attractive as an effective way to transfer and preserve family wealth. Opportunity No. 2 Even though there is no generation-skipping tax (“GST”), there is also no generationskipping tax exemption to apply to gifts in trust for grandchildren. When the estate and GST taxes come back in 2011 (or sooner depending on Congress), any gifts in trust for grandchildren will be subject to GST tax in the future when distributions from the trust are made to or for the benefit of the grandchildren (under a concept known as “taxable
distributions” or “taxable terminations”). Now a grandparent can make substantial gifts, subject only to the 35% gift tax, to a special type of trust for children, grandchildren, and later generations that acts as a private family bank -- never making distributions to the beneficiaries but rather, creating limited liability companies with the children and grandchildren and investing in those business ventures or deals so as to facilitate generations of family members becoming self-sufficient, self-reliant, and successful in their own right. The special trust will have to end no later than 90 years after its creation (if created in California), and the distributions at termination of the trust to those later generations may be subject to some type of generation-skipping tax then, but family wealth will have been preserved for nearly a century and many generations of children will have the financial ability to get into business and establish their own fortunes. Meet with your estate planning counsel as soon as possible to protect your wealth and capture opportunities during this turbulent tax change…before the window of opportunity closes.
“The new set of rules creates a few special opportunities for those who can take advantage.”
Complete Your Organization With Our Team Of Accounting Consultants • BUSINESS MANAGEMENT • QUICKBOOKS CONSULTING • BOOKKEEPING • ACCOUNTING • CONTROLLERSHIP • CFO • TRAINING / COACHING • TAXES / AUDIT PREP KNOW WHERE YOUR BUSINESS STANDS! CONTACT HUGHES ACCOUNTING SERVICES TODAY FOR YOUR CUSTOM EVALUATION.
323-378-5924 INFO@HUGHESGS.COM WWW.HUGHESGS.COM
c-suite quarterly
Impression Management CSQ ADVISOR Deborah Shames & David Booth
Deborah Shames and David Booth are co-founders of Eloqui, a Corporate Communications firm based in Southern California. They are field-trained as directors and have translated performance techniques from the entertainment industry for the business professional. Eloqui training utilizes the latest research from neuroscience on how to be memorable. They also draw on impression management from the field of psychology. Eloqui trains companies to deliver their competitive advantage. Their clients include TD Ameritrade, Wells Fargo, Merrill Lynch, Amgen, Mattel, and Fisher Price, as well as midlevel law, financial, and insurance firms. They also coach individuals to identify their strengths, utilize their authentic voice, and drive business. Their two tip books, the Speaker Survival Guide and Briefly Speaking are available on Amazon.com. And their bestselling book published by McGraw-Hill: Own the Room: Business Presentations that Persuade, Engage and Get Results was released in September, 2009 and is already in its second printing. Contact them at www.eloqui.biz or 818.225.7991
54 | CSQMag.com
W
Everything Communicates hen fear, uncertainty, and mistrust throw a pall over the business landscape, how can we re-establish consumer confidence and revive a healthy flow of goods and services? Scientific research in the field of social psychology provides a welcome solution. Impression Management (IM) contends that “perceptions” form ideas that become reality. These ideas are the basis for critical behaviors, such as buying products or services. At Eloqui, our corporate communications firm, we see this theory played out when training communication skills to executives in finance (“the public has lost faith in us”), insurance (“we aren’t liked”), accounting (“what we do is boring”) and law (“they only call us when they have to”). The incontrovertible fact is that perception drives the marketplace. But the good news is that perceptions can be shaped or altered. This metamorphosis is dependent upon strong communication skills, along with appropriate behavior and demeanor. Here’s the challenging part of IM theory: Individuals and organizations must establish and maintain impressions that are congruent with the demeanor they exhibit in public. Take a look back at John Edwards, Elliot Spitzer, or Governor Mark Sanford. Each built a persona that was at odds with their behavior out of the public spotlight. Eventually, they were found out and faced the consequences. To take control of your personal or corporate brand, don’t allow the news media to control the message, especially your message. Many are entertainment venues anyway, basing their broadcast on the knowledge that audiences love drama. Hence, instead of news, they feature conspiracy, wrongdoing, and failure—human and political train wrecks. To set yourself apart, recruit the best thinkers in your executive suite or enlist outside consultants to craft a resolute and unique message. Use this as a platform for all your communication. Then proactively book yourself into speaking venues to solidify and advance your company’s perception in the marketplace. Focus on these areas: Intention - Knowing what you want to achieve gives you a rudder. Before any speaking engagement, you must formulate a clear, direct intention and make it the driving force from the beginning to the end of your talk. It could be, “I will convince them that we are…. (insert your message here),” or “they will see us as…..” Anything that does not fit that intention should be tossed out. This tool not only gives your talk a dynamic core, but also presents you as a dynamic, committed leader, the first step in effective IM. Role - Determining your role provides a delivery system for intention, based on the audience. This is where Eloqui translates the science of IM into action. Utilizing congruent language and behavior, you make precise decisions about how you want to be perceived. Now you are at the controls. One example: To be seen as a bold leader, you would choose the role of mobilizer and speak of campaigns you organized, goals you set, and resources you deployed to win. To exhibit resolve and decisiveness, speak in short, punchy sentences and control your space, which leads to the next piece of the puzzle: Bearing - The first impression, or “blink,” that the audience receives. A mobilizer has a firm and secure base, stands with feet shoulder-width apart, and exhibits forcefulness by opening up the chest to the audience. A mobilizer also gestures easily, illustrating points for emphasis, without being self-conscious. Wardrobe - To present a picture of authority, wear high contrast clothing – white
shirt and dark suit. To project collegiality and approachability, choose a monochromatic or low contrast look - - such as navy suit, blue shirt, and complementary tie. Avoid eye-catching patterns on ties, bright colors, or distracting jewelry. This first snapshot your audience receives is a vital element in the congruity of the image you are presenting. Game face - Setting the tone and displaying it in your demeanor. Prior to speaking, clear your mental decks of all other thoughts and responsibilities. Actors call this process “bridging,” or moving from the everyday self into the role you have selected. Focus on intention, dedicate yourself to achieving that intention, and consider your role. You are now collected, centered, and have a high likelihood of managing the impression you have decided is best for your success. In future CSQ installments, we will cover IM in the pitch, because no firm can afford the luxury of losing a client or deal. Then we will focus on practical applications of IM when addressing the media; whether on television, radio, or in print. The final installment will feature PowerPoint, which can be a powerful visual tool, or an albatross that sinks your presentation. With PowerPoint, we will examine delivery as well as content, drawn from the best presenters and designers in business today.
“Impression Management contends that ‘perceptions’ form ideas that become reality.”
! PAGE AD
FORTRESS LEGAL PROTECT YOUR BUSINESS. SECURE YOUR FUTURE.
Legal Outsourcing for Small Businesses $249 a month One team of local attorneys at one low cost! Outsource and save; protect your business today. • • • • • •
Collections Corporate & Regulation Compliance Employment or Labor Issues Pre-Litigation Counseling & Strategy Contract Drafting and Review Client Log-in: 24-hour access to your legal matters
(213) 223-2154 www.fortresslegal.com
CSQMag.com | 55
c-suite quarterly
r e gi o n al e c o n omy
F
or hundreds of years, the coastal point at Hueneme has been an important link in the region’s sustainability and economic vitality, beginning with the earliest inhabitants. Hueneme, (pronounced, wye nee mee) is derived from a Chumash Indian word meaning “half-way” or “resting place.” It is about half way between Point Mugu and the mouth of the Santa Clara River. The port is believed to have been used to launch fishing expeditions that fed the people of the region.
Oxnard Harbor District
Port of Hueneme: The Port the Farmers Built By Bill Buratto
56 | CSQMag.com
Today, the Port of Hueneme, operated by the Oxnard Harbor District, is a bustling commercial port with a long and distinguished history. As the only deepwater port between San Pedro Bay and San Francisco, it has been designated as a “strategic port” by the Department of Defense supporting both commercial and national defense missions. The Oxnard Harbor District is an “independent special district” under the California Harbors and Navigation Code. The District includes the cities of Oxnard and Port Hueneme and is led by five elected commissioners. It receives no taxes for its operations, operating entirely on Port generated revenues. Executive Director Anthony Taormina and his highly capable executive staff run the day-to-day operations of the Port. The Port serves as the “back door” to the greater Los Angeles market and has road and rail connections that provide shippers access to markets in the Western Canadian Provinces, Pacific Northwest, Northern California, and the Southwest. The transition to a commercial port began in 1867 when Thomas Bard, who would later serve in the U.S. Senate, saw the advantages of a port to serve the area’s growing agricultural concerns. In 1872, the 1,500 foot “Bard’s Wharf” was constructed to move goods between ships and the shore.
In the 1930’s, Richard Bard, son of Senator Bard, picked up the dream and worked tirelessly to bring a full-fledged commercial port to the Ventura County coast. Bard and local farmers applied for a Public Works Administration loan of $1.6 million to construct the Port. When their request was denied, they decided to create (through a vote of the people) the Oxnard Harbor District. In April of 1937, the people voted for its creation. In May of 1938, the Harbor District proposed a $1.75 million bond issue to construct the Port. The bond issue was fully subscribed in 15 minutes. The Port, which became known as ”the port the farmers built,” may have been the first one built in this country without any federal money. In March of 1942, as the war in the Pacific began, the U.S. Navy commandeered the Port and made it a naval base. They spent $6 million and built six docks, an amphibious-landing training school, and a SeaBee advance base, which is still located at Naval Base Ventura County. By the end of the war, the Hueneme wharves were handling 150,000 tons of military cargo a month.
After the war, negotiations began to bring commercial activity back to the Port. In 1947, a lease agreement was reached for commercial use of Dock #1 and 16 of the 322 acres that had been given up earlier. The dock was renovated and totaled 1,800 feet, accommodating up to three ships. In the 1960’s the Oxnard Harbor District purchased Dock #1 and an additional six acres, bringing their total to 22 acres. In the 1970’s, while other ports were focusing on containerization, the Port of Hueneme took a different route. Port leaders saw an opportunity in the break bulk and roll on/roll off markets (Ro/Ro). Break bulk refers to non-containerized cargo that must be loaded and unloaded individually rather than within containers. Palletized fruits and vegetables fall into this category. Since 1979, Del Monte has used the Port as their west coast distribution hub. A major import is bananas. The 600,000 metric tons of bananas from Ecuador, Costa Rica, and Guatemala each year makes Port Hueneme one of the busiest banana gateways in the country.
1867
1872
1937
1938
1942
Port Founding
Bard’s Wharf
Oxnard Harbor
$1.75 million
Navy uses Port
Constructed
District created
bond issue
as naval base
1947
1979
Lease agreement Del Monte begins
1998 Harbor District
signed for
use of Port
purchases
passed to
commercial
as west coast
the Ventura
construct the
use of Docks 1
distribution hub
County Railway
Port
and 16
c-suite quarterly
REG I ONAL e c o n omy
About The Port Pronounced wye nee mee Annual Movement of Goods $7 billion Direct and Indirect Employment 5,000 jobs 2006 Stats 1,438,680 tons of cargo from 400 vessels Other break bulk imports include pineapple, mangos, melons, cantaloupe, avocados, and fresh-cut flowers. Roll on/roll off refers to cargo, such as cars, trucks, or trailers that can be driven on and off ships on their own wheels. Automobiles are the Port’s largest Ro/Ro market. BMW, Mini Cooper, Rolls Royce, Mitsubishi, Suzuki, Land Rover, Jaguar, Volvo, Saab, Hyundai, and Kia are just some of the manufacturers utilizing the Port. Annually, more than $7 billion in cargo value moves through the Port generating more than $650 million in economic impact to the region, with 5,000 direct and indirect jobs. In 2006 the Port handled 1,438,680 tons of cargo from 400 vessels resulting in over 500,000 man-hours in labor generating $18,873,000 in wages. Moving forward, the Port faces a number of challenges. Clearly the economic downturn over the past several years has impacted imports and exports. There have been fewer cars coming through the port. This situation is seen as temporary. Once the economy begins to recover, cargo activity is expected to once again rise to 2006 levels and beyond. With little “lay down” space at the Port, the Harbor District emphasizes cargo velocity, encouraging customers to quickly move their imports away from its first point of rest to their final destination. They continue to partner with the Navy for additional space and look to purchase nearby property as it becomes available. Moving cargo by rail and truck is central to port operations. Upgrading roads on intermodal routes remains a priority. The proposed project to redesign the Rice Road interchange at the 101 Freeway will have a major impact on the ability to get cargo in and out of the port.
58 | CSQMag.com
In 1998, the Harbor District purchased what is now called the Ventura County Railway. Operated by Rail America, the VCRR covers 12 miles on four branches and plays a significant role in the transport of freight and goods serving the industrial areas of south Oxnard, the Port of Hueneme, and Naval Base Ventura County Port Hueneme Division. It connects with the Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) Coast Main Line in downtown Oxnard. This strategic asset is instrumental for the future of the Port. Harbor District officials have had on-going discussions with the Ventura County Transportation Commission and UPRR to seek improvements and expansion of the current lines that will facilitate more efficient cargo movement. New air quality regulations will require ships to access shoreside power to operate onboard equipment rather than utilize ship engines to generate power while in port. This power system will be expensive to install and operate. The Harbor District has applied for a federal grant under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to upgrade 1,400 feet of wharf structure leading to a US Army Corps of Engineers navigational project that will allow the installation of an electrical system to provide shore-side power for cargo vessels. This project is important for the future of the Port. As in the past, the Port of Hueneme holds great promise for the economic vitality of Ventura County and the region. The current leadership maintains the same “can do” spirit that exemplifies the “the port the farmers built.” Bill Buratto is President/CEO of the Ventura County Economic Development Association. He can be reached at bburatto@vceda.org
the best Q: Where’s local place for kids to experience fun and enrichment before and after school, weekends and during the summer? & Girls Clubs A: Boys of Conejo & Las Virgenes (Locations in Thousand Oaks and Newbury Park) s (OMEWORK !SSISTANCE s 3PORTS s !RTS s &IELD 4RIPS s #OMPUTERS s ,EADERSHIP
Classes Fill Up Fast! Sign Up Today!
818-706-0905 www.bgcconejo.org
Serving ages 3–14
Where good kids get even better!
c-suite quarterly
lit e r a r y r e s o ur c e s
By Jim Cathcart
Live a Thousand Years by Giovanni Livera Time Compass Press, ISBN 0-9660567-4-4 www.giovanniexperiences.com
W
hen you visit Disneyland or a Four Seasons hotel, it doesn’t matter where you stand or in which direction you look. Whatever you see will be there intentionally. Try it. Every aspect of these environments is thought out in advance and contributes to the desired effect of the site. That same factor is present in Live a Thousand Years by Giovanni Livera, “Gio” to us. The size, feel, layout, and flow of this book are all designed to lead you through the transformation of your life to an extraordinary experience. There is even a package of very special “Documents” to help apply the lessons of the book in a fun and powerful way. The story of Nick Waites as he journeys through time is a compelling read you won’t want to put down. The life lessons in this story will impact you long after the book is shared with your loved ones. In fact, I recommend reading it aloud with a special friend or family member. It is based upon timeless truths and proven psychology. So, make a little time to add a Thousand Years to your life - starting now!
The One Minute Entrepreneur by Ken Blanchard, Don Hutson and Ethan Willis. Doubleday, ISBN 978-0-385-52602-9 www.donhutson.com
H
ere is a New York Times’ bestseller that extends the legacy of Ken Blanchard’s The One Minute Manager. Entrepreneurial coach Ethan Willis and master sales trainer Don Hutson joined Ken in creating this business guidebook. Told in the classic One Minute parable style, it will not only teach how to grow and sustain your business, but will also make its mark on a deeper level as you see the principles applied and tested in this story. Many of the book’s lessons are direct quotes and advice from the actual mentors and colleagues of Ken, Don, and Ethan. This is true, practical advice; not merely theory. And it is desperately needed today! About 40% of new businesses fail in their first year and 96% are gone before their tenth, hence there exists a crying need for this entrepreneurial wisdom. You will learn the three essentials for business success and gain scores of “One Minute Insights” that can be applied immediately. Take a minute to acquire this book today.
Jim Cathcart, CSP, CPAE is a Hall of Fame professional speaker and the author of 15 books. He knows many of today’s top business speakers and authors. Look forward to insights into some of Cathcart’s colleague’s latest and best books as well as some classics from his personal library.
60 | CSQMag.com
Personal attention isn’t a luxury in any economy. Getting the best value from your financial partner is more important than ever. We’ve been providing outstanding service and global resources for 67 years. Isn’t it time you learned what we can do for you?
Tax Planning Business Consulting Audits & Accounting Estate Planning Financial Planning Global Capabilities
21700 Oxnard Street, Suite 850 Woodland Hills, California 91367 818.854.6100 fax 818.854.6103 www.gishSEIDEN.com Please contact Andy Levinson at ALevinson@gishSEIDEN.com
gish SEIDEN, LLP is a member of Nexia International, a worldwide network of independent accounting and consulting firms
c-suite quarterly
up t o w n a r t s By Gordon Durich with Jeff Phillips Sculpture photos by Kristan Marvell
Valley Arts
Vision in View
he San Fernando Valley is a vast canvas of commerce and colorful communities, but there’s something missing from the picture. The scene is devoid of a museum of art, which, with a population of some two million, would be an excellent addition to the community. “A lot of research has been done with respect to an art museum in here,” explains Jeff Phillips, a Tarzana-based art curator. “A lack of cohesiveness to community has led to a lack of cultural expression here.” Phillips contends that high profile arts destinations such as the Disney Concert Hall and the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles have in turn increased property values. In contrast, the Valley offers no such destination. A cultural advocate, he declares, “I’m a lone wolf with a mission.” Phillips is well-recognized in the
62 | CSQMag.com
local art community, having served as curator for various contemporary galleries in Los Angeles. He is founder of The Art Art Project, which exhibits contemporary fine art throughout the Los Angeles region. A graduate of the California Institute of the Arts, he is considered one of the state’s leading independent curators. A strong advocate for a Valley museum, Phillips notes that “contemporary art brings in the current youth generation who represent the future of the Valley.” Phillips explains that the draw of cultural offerings beyond the Valley attract the younger and future generations and takes them to where the ”real action” is. “There’s nothing here for ‘cultural kids,’ and in the minds of many, you want kids to become cultural, if they’re not so already. Otherwise, they’re stuck in a time warp of their parent’s concept of what culture is, as opposed to the current generation that ignores the Valley’s cultural relationship,
“Contemporary art brings in the current youth generation who represent the future of the Valley.” perceiving it as not being hip. Los Angeles is the international center for art making, ascending over even New York,” contends Phillips. “It was New York in the 1980’s, and New York ascended over Paris in the late 1940’s. The impact of that has made Los Angeles a world class destination, but the San Fernando Valley has yet to truly benefit. From an artistic standpoint, it has yet to reach its potential.” Phillips has broached the entire
“A Gathering of Gladiolas III” at the woodland hills Sculpture Gardens
“Strutting” at the woodland hills Sculpture Gardens
About Our Expert Jeff Phillips is grounded in fine art, establishing “Art Speaks for Itself,” a program for the Directors Guild of America. Over two million visitors viewed this exhibition of contemporary artists. Founding curator of art exhibits at Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza, Sherwood Country Club, The International Photography Guild, Bosnia Relief, and various contemporary galleries including Barnsdall Park, Los Angeles.
business, philanthropic, political, and civic leadership of his community with the call to arts in the “S.F.V.” The pioneer’s plan of converting a warehouse space into a local art museum, rather than building a new institution, has, to quote Bob Dylan, “no direction home.” So far. “Not that there’s no good intentions. There’s just nothing to build on,” rails Phillips. “On the surface, there appears to be a lack of motivation on the part of the Valley business community to become involved in cultural affairs.” He continues “It’s an example of self-imposed limitations that are the excuse for tackling something previously ‘outside their box.’ When presented with the opportunity to leave their box, they have a myriad of excuses representing their own misunderstanding of their own self interest to put themselves, and their own sphere of influence, in a position to further their goals, but not understand the economics that a world class cultural destination would create. “The Valley is virtually a blank canvas, which is a great opportunity to draw and define a cultural initiative that is unique to the region and will reflect the multicultural make-up of the San Fernando
Valley,” Phillips exclaims. “This is a great challenge and opportunity to step forward and help define and draw a new cultural map to put the Valley on the world map of cultural destinations.” Jeff Phillips doesn’t mince words.
Next Steps Develop an executive board that can support the arts in the region. According to Robert Rodine, co-chair of the Economic Alliance of the San Fernando Valley’s Livable Communities group, raising capital is dependent on the interest in a museum of art in the Valley. Members from other museums who reside in the Valley would be a large factor in determining funding this project. The final hurdle would be finding an appropriate location. Jeff Philllips’ vision is to take an empty warehouse and transform it into a contemporary art museum, featuring a contemporary mission. By using an existing structure it will be more cost effective than building from scratch.
Award winning art curator and internationally successful consultant.
The Valley Art Scene With a population of over two million, Los Angeles County’s San Fernando Valley is the largest credited population in the world without an art museum. There are some 30 art galleries in the “Valley.” Los Angeles proper, incorporating downtown, houses 10 art museums and counting. They include MOCA, The Museum of Contemporary Art, Museum of Neon Art, and Mexican Cultural Institute. Funding for art programs are derived from the City of Los Angeles’ Department of Cultural Affairsas well as sponsors like the Visual Art Source, and corporations including ABC and Telemundo.
CSQMag.com | 63
c-suite quarterly
up t o w n di n i n g
The Secret Ingredient of Fins Restaurant Group
Executive Chef Roberto Leyva Passionate about the food itself, Chef Leyva has it “in his blood” to Deliver Fresh and Inspired Menus in Four Unique LA Uptown restaurants... By Rebecca S. Miller The Fins Restaurant Group has provided fine and fun dining options to the LA uptown area for the past 20 years. At the heart of Fins' success is the inspiration of innovative Executive Chef, Roberto Leyva. Born and raised in Mexico, cooking has been a lifelong passion for Chef Leyva. After chopping up his own salsa verde at the age of five, his early focus was on European cuisine. His fascination with the fusion movement then led him to Asia, the Pacific Rim, and South America. In 1980, he and Moez Megji created Fins Seafood Grill in Westlake Village. Four years later they opened Fins Creekside in Calabasas, and then Moz Buddha Lounge in Agoura Hills. Zin Bistro Americana, on beautiful Westlake, is their most recent collaboration, featuring “comfort food… re-defined.” “To me, food is a big field of possibilities," he declares. "Take one tomato - you can do so many things with it: puree, steam slice, poach.” While Chef Leyva finds inspiration from the food itself, he reports, "It’s also in my blood.” His mother was a cook and he was mentored by his godmother, a chef. Each restaurant has a distinct concept, yet Chef Leyva weaves a common
64 | CSQMag.com
thread throughout. His commitment to “only the best ingredients” and his quest to “discover new ways to create a fresh and innovative culinary experience” are just part of the winning formula. He happily invites requests for “off menu” delights, and his signature sauces keep the creative juices flowing. “I’m always thinking about cooking. I taste new menu ideas in my head, I give it form and texture, and I can taste it before I put it together. "I have been blessed with a gift; I am doing what I like to do…and I love making people happy.” He is also using his gifts to give back, most recently through a benefit at Zin to help the people of Haiti.
“To me, food is a big field of possibilities” Before his godmother died at the age of 106, she said to him, “Roberto, remember, whatever you do in life, from the eye is born the love…whatever you do, it has to look good.” His beautiful culinary presentations would make her proud. For more information on the Fins Restaurants, go to www.finsinc.com
The view from Zin Bistro is almost as impressive as the menu
Leila’s
Launches Sophisticated Small-Plate Fun By Rebecca S. Miller
L
eila’s has been delighting local diners for 10 years, earning its reputation as one of L.A.’s “Best” with consistently excellent Zagat ratings. This Oak Park neighborhood gem is a “foodie” oasis. Leila’s, named for owner Peyman Afshar’s daughter, is a labor of love for the dedicated team of 13 who are lucky enough to work there. The enthusiastic general manager, Joseph Kono, jokes, “Someone has to die before you can get a job here.” After working together in Portland, Oregon, Peyman and Joseph launched Leila’s as “an opportunity to bring sophisticated food in a comfortable atmosphere to our local community. “We wanted to deliver LA quality without LA atmosphere.” This unpretentious upscale bistro is fun, cozy, and welcoming, and the food is truly delicious. Chef Richie DeMane recently launched a new concept menu, focusing on delectable “small plates” from around the globe. We were wowed by the Wagyu beef on whipped red miso that was lifted with light, delicate, Japanese flavors. The manchego stuffed, bacon-wrapped dates on cinnamon syrup had just the right hint of chili to create a scrumptious “candy with a kick” sensation. The new menu creates a culinary playground for the patrons to explore different flavors without getting locked in. New furnishings enhance the space, and the community table by the open kitchen is a great choice for a total sensory experience. Chef Richie is committed to offering “discernable,
Leila’s Restaurant 725 Lindero Road Oak Park, 91377 818.707.6939 www.leilasrestaurant.com
fun, food.” With two-thirds of their clientele being weekly regulars, he is clearly hitting the mark. HOURS Long-standing favorites Leila’s is open for dinner only, such as the lobster tempura Tues - Sun starting at 5pm. dynamite roll, slow roasted Reservations recommended. beet salad, and six-hour braised beef are now joined by innovative new expressions such as the beautifully presented and utterly delicious Mumbai Seared Spiced Salmon and the Duck Steak with Sweet Frites. “Wine Guy” Christopher Keating delivers unique and well-priced selections that compliment Chef Richie’s menus. His friendly style charms the crowd while he quietly impresses local connoisseurs with his expansive knowledge and passion for the art of wine. In the lounge area, we explored the recommendations of Fromager Joseph and his well-chosen artisanal cheese selection. Desserts at Leila’s are also not to be missed. The decadent “ice cream puff” and the inspired “banana crunch fritters” are just a few ways to enjoy a perfect ending to a truly fine dining experience. Whether seeking a quiet date night out, an evening with friends, entertaining new clients, or trying to impress a candidate, Leila’s will not disappoint. But don’t be surprised if the regular clientele down-play the experience. It’s all part of keeping the hush around this local gem.
c-suite quarterly
up t o w n di n i n g
Power breakfast By Jasai Madden
I
f “let’s get down to business” is your motto and breakfast is your power meal, there is no better place to have these two roads converge than Brent’s Deli. The Westlake Village offspring of the legendary 40-year-old Northridge original is nestled behind the lush green margin south of the 101 freeway in the Conejo Valley. As soon as you enter its huge double doors, you fall into the scents of baking, brewing, and the commerce of breakfast preparation designed with every meeting style in mind. Take for instance the Eggs Benedict. This is formal eating for formal dealing; a technically perfect offering of poached eggs dressed in Hollandaise sauce that is by all accounts lemony, thick, and beyond delicious. Over a toasted English muffin, with Canadian bacon and fresh fruit, it is traditional and ceremonial, which is sometimes just what you need to close the deal. More casual is the Special Steak and Eggs. Each is just what one would expect from a simple essential, and at Brent’s, they are as perfect as this unfussy favorite comes. Made just the way you like, whether that’s rare and scrambled or medium and over easy, you give your server precise specs and the deli’s kitchen specialists
66 | CSQMag.com
more than deliver. For creative assemblies looking to get the ideas percolating early, Brent’s colorful fish platters with a wide array of bagel choices will give everyone a chance to make a masterpiece: a beautiful assemblage of two fish choices including hand sliced lox, BBQ cod, baked salmon, and smoked whitefish. Playfully dressed with sliced Bermuda onions, tomatoes, cream cheese, and olives, this choice is certain to engage your tactile senses. And if, in the final analysis, your business meeting has a more “fuel before fancy” bent to it, their imitable, good-oldfashioned bowl of oatmeal topped with simple yet wonderful trimmings, is right up there with getting down to the basics in order to accomplish the ultimate goal. Its wide open spaciousness dotted with cozy little nooks ensures that whether your business meeting calls for two or twenty, suits and spreadsheets, or backpacks and impromptu brainstorms, Brent’s Deli has it all. By way of fare and accommodations, they are exactly what you need. Rather have the deli brought to you? Brent’s caters lunches, dinners, any size event or party. For more information on Brent’s catering call 805.557.1882 or visit www.brentsdeli.com
Brent’s Deli 2799 Townsgate Road Westlake Village CA 91361 805.557.1882 Open Daily 7am To 9pm 19565 Parthenia Street Northridge CA 91324 818.886.5679 Open daily 6am to 9pm www.brentsdeli.com
For The Fans of Savory The Fish Plate
For The Fans of Sweet Waffle with Fruit and Cream
Would you let these people into Your Home or Place of Business?
You would, if you wanted to have an unforgettable and most affordable party. From Weddings to Business Lunches to just about any kind of function, Monrose will fully orchestrate, coordinate and give you the party that you have dreamed of.
â&#x20AC;&#x153;No party too large, no party too
Monrose is a complete Full Service Catering Company 310-457-6338 818-707-7307 Monrose Catering & Special Events 31117 Via Colinas Westlake Village, CA 91362 www.monrosecatering.com
small, just one call handles it allâ&#x20AC;? Serving you for over 30 years!
CSQMag.com | 67
c-suite quarterly
r e al e s tat e
Malibu’s one and only “Ocean Cove” Perched on a Malibu bluff approximately 100 feet above sea level, this 1.5 acre tropical landscaped property has the ultimate getaway feel, yet so close to everything. This property stretches across the bluff approx. 125 ft. with direct beach access that leads to a dry and sandy beach where you can walk, run, surf, or just be. The interior has been renovated with rich hardwood floors, a dual staircase, high ceilings, serving bar, split living and family room, 6 bedrooms, sexy master suite with fireplace and a wrap around balcony, 8 bathrooms, newer kitchen with state of the art appliances, and a high tech conference room with separate entrance. Private and gated, heated pool and spa.
68 | CSQMag.com
Architectural and interior design Sandra Costa Development Listing Agent Wendy Carroll Sotheby’s International Realty (310) 317-0757 Malibu (310) 990-2285 Mobile wendy@wendycarroll.com www.wendycarroll.com This Residence is Exclusively being offered for sale at $16,995,000 Also available for lease summer (June-August) $75K per month Long term $50K per month
CSQMag.com | 69
c-suite quarterly
Ev e n t s
Corporate Leaders Breakfast California Lutheran University, Thousand Oaks Topic: American Auto Industry Keynotes: Donald E. Petersen, Former CEO and Chairman of Ford Motor Company; James D. Power III, Founder and Former CEO of J.D. Power and Associates Lead Sponsors: Merrill Lynch, Montecito Bank & Trust, Nordman Cormany Hair & Compton LLP, Pacific Coast Business Times, Santa Barbara Bank & Trust, Sodexo, Ventura County Star, and Wells Fargo Photos: Brian Stethem Contact: Karin Grennan, 805.493.3512 www.callutheran.edu
Gold Coast Business Forum Westlake Village Inn Topic: Something Positive for a Change, Tri-Counties Success Stories Keynotes: Linda Taix, Founder/President, Extreme Bootcamp; Arik Tendler, President, Caesarstone US ; Bill Camarillo, President, Agromin Lead Sponsors: CRESA Partners, CSQ Magazine, McDermott & Bull, Musick Peeler & Garrett, Pepperdine University, Graziadio School of Business and Management, Tonic, Vapur, Wells Fargo Bank Photos: Mike Diaz Contact: Ali Schulze, 805.418.3104 www.goldcoastbusinessforum.com 70 | CSQMag.com
Eve nts
c-suite quarterly
Boys & Girls Clubs of conejo and las virgenes, 2009 Annual Gala Four Seasons Westlake Village Keynotes/Entertainment: Ex-Olympian Bruce Jenner, Mack & Jamie, Club Member Jamie Kaufman Lead Sponsors: Cal & Marje Johnston, Shumway Family, Richard & Ellen Gilleland, Santa Barbara Bank & Trust, Morton Capital Photos: Robby K Contact: Mark Elswick, 818.706.0905 www.bgcconejo.org
Tycoon Jewelers, 1 Year Anniversary Tycoon Flagship Store, Westfield Topanga Sponsors: CSQ Magazine, The Auto Gallery Photos: Robby K Contact: Toros Kejijian, 818.348.0028 www.tycoontopanga.com
c-suite quarterly
Ev e n t s
Alliance for the Arts, 15th Anniversary Gala Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Center Performances By: Bernadette Peters, New West Symphony, Cabrillo Music Theatre, Pacific Festival Ballet, Ralna English Awards/Honorees: Eloise & Chuck Cohen, Dr. Richard & Elizabeth Grossman, Lead Sponsors: Verizon, City of Thousand Oaks, Annette & Ron Plotkin, Westlake Village Inn Photos: Bill Appleton, Robby K Contact: Patricia Jones www.allianceforthearts.org
Polacheck’s Jewelers, Annual Poker Night for Cancer Monty’s Steakhouse, Woodland Hills Lead Sponsors: IWC Watches, Monty’s Steakhouse, CSQ Magazine Photos: Robby K Contact: Brent Polacheck, 818.225.0600 www.polachecksjewelers.com
72 | CSQMag.com
arts plaza
February Calendar of Events
Alexis Gershwin
Chris Botti Feb 19
Feb 21
GERSHWIN SINGS GERSHWIN THE
NEW WEST SYMPHONY
presents the World Renowned
Feb 28
Mar 17
#0,55( 6@: /609 Mar 18
Mar 19 Cabrillo Music Theatre presents
Apr 23 - May 2
(800) 745-3000 or ticketmaster.com
Box Office Hours: Tues-Sun. 12-5:00pm. On performance dates Box Office remains open one half hour after curtain. More Info: 805-449-ARTS (2787) or visit www.civicartsplaza.com CSQMag.com | 73
c-suite quarterly
b usin e ss di r e c t or y
Peninsula Beverly Hills 9882 S Santa Monica Blvd Beverly Hills, CA 90212 310.551.2888 peninsula.com Westlake Village Inn 31943 Agoura Rd Westlake Village, CA 91361 818.889.0230 westlakevillageinn.com
C - S U I T E QUARTERLY
Business Directory Accounting / Bookkeeping Gish Seiden LLP 21700 Oxnard St, Ste 850 Woodland Hills, CA 91367 Andy Levinson 818.854.6100 alevinson@gishseiden.com gishseiden.com Hughes Accounting Services Tim Hughes 323.378.5924 info@hughesgs.com hughesgs.com
Concierge / Experiencial 400 Club Tony Abrahms 212.242.7475 tony@fourhundred.com fourhundred.com My Yacht Monaco Nicholas Frankl 310.463.1936 info@myyachtf1.com myyyachtF1.com
Counseling Counseling Resource Center Stress Management 5923 Kanan Rd Agoura, CA 91301 Carol Polevoi, LMFT, CBT 818.889.3905 counselingresourcecenter.com
Country Club / Golf Lost Canyons 3301 Lost Canyons Dr Simi Valley, CA 93063 805.522.4653 lostcanyons.com Sherwood Lake Club Samantha Withers 805.373.5992 sherwoodcc.com
74 | CSQMag.com
Malibu Country Club 901 Encinal Canyon Rd Malibu, CA 90265 818.889.6680 malibucountryclub.net Spanish Hills Country Club 999 Crestview Ave Camarillo, CA 93010 Andrea Milton 805.388.5000 spanishhillscc.com
Dentistry Dr. Joseph Sciarra Pediatric 22554 Ventura Blvd Woodland Hills, CA 91364 818.224.2970 drjoe@kiddydds.com kiddydds.com
Education Pepperdine University, Graziadio School of Business Presidential & Key Executive MBA Irvine, West Los Angeles, Malibu 800.766.5062 bschool.pepperdine.edu/pke
Financial Planning Manchester Financial 2815 Townsgate Rd, Ste 100 Westlake Village, CA 91361 Alan Hopkins 805.495.4405 alan@mfinvest.com mfinvest.com
Hotel / Meeting Room Four Seasons Westlake Village Two Dole Dr Westlake Village, CA 91362 818.575.3000 fourseasons.com/ westlakevillage/
IT / Tech Support Servicorps Systems, Inc Small Business IT Outsourcing 28230 W Agoura Rd, Ste 120 Agoura Hills, CA 91301 Lee Morgan 800.608.4693 info@servicorps.net servicorps.net
Jewelery Dejaun Jewelers 6600 Topanga Blvd Canoga Park, CA 91303 818.888.8304 dejaun.com Polacheckâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jewelers 4719 Commons Way Calabasas, CA 91302 Brent Polacheck 818.225.0600 polachecks.com Traditional Jewelers 3835 CROSS CREEK RD #19 Malibu, CA 90265 Reza 310.317.9100 traditionaljewelers.com Tycoon Diamonds 6600 Topanga Blvd Canoga Park, CA 91303 Toros Kejijian 818.348.0028 tycoontopanga.com Westime 254 North Rodeo Dr Beverly Hills, California 90210 310.271.0000 westime.com
Legal Fortress Legal Outsourcing for Small Business 213.223.2154 fortresslegal.com SoCal IP Law Group, LLP Intellectual Property 310 N Westlake Blvd, Ste 120 Westlake Village, CA 91362 Stephen Sereboff 805.230.1350 ssereboff@socalip.com socalip.com
ZabnerLaw Estate Planning, Trust Services 165 E Thousand Oaks Blvd, Ste 301 Westlake Village,CA 91361 Jeff Zabner 805.374.2777 jzabner@zabnerlaw.com zabnerlaw.com
Luxury Auto Dream Cars West Exotic Car Rentals Chris Reeves 800.671.1889 dreamcarswest.com The LA Auto Gallery, Automobili Lamborghini 6600 Topanga Blvd Canoga Park, CA 91303 Ray Penman 818.575.9544 lamborghininorthlosangeles.com
Marketing / Advertising Inter/Media Advertising 15760 Ventura Blvd, 1st Floor Encino, CA 91436 800.TIME.BUY intermedia-advertising.com Mustang Marketing 1090 Calle Arroyo Thousand Oaks, CA 91362 Scott Harris 805.498.8718 x105 scott@mustangmktg.com mustangmktg.com
Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Apparel Cavallini Beverly Hills 9565 Santa Monica Blvd Beverly Hills, CA 90210 Sean Meshgin 310.247.9771 sean@cavallinbh.com cavallinibh.com The Auto Gallery, Automobili Lamborghini 6600 Topanga Blvd Canoga Park, CA 91303 Ray Penman 818.575.9544 lamborghininorthlosangeles.com
14
professional Networks Gold Coast Business Forum C-Level Ali Schulze 805.418.3104 a.schulze@mpglaw.com goldcoastbusinessforum.com Maverick Angels Accredited Investors 100 Moody Ct, Ste 105 Thousand Oaks, CA 91360 John Dilts 818.706.7686 maverickangels.com
Not for Profit Alliance for the Arts 2100 Thousand Oaks Blvd Thousand Oaks, CA 91362 Patricia Jones 805. 449-2700 allianceforthearts.org Boys & Girls Clubs of Conejo and Las Virgenes Mark Elswick 818.706.0905 melswick@bgcconejo.org bgcconejo.com
Private Air Elite Aviation Charter, Sales 7501 Hayvenhurst Pl Van Nuys, CA 91406 Bill Tyus 818.988.5387 btyus@eliteaviation.com eliteaviation.com
Marquis Jet Hourly Jet Card 2665 Main St, Ste 240 Santa Monica, CA 90405 Randy Brandoff 212.499.3749 marquisjet.com World Class Jets Concierge/Private Jet Broker Eric Echeverria 877.SKY.TODAY eric.e@worldclassjetservices.com worldclassjetservices.com
Real Estate Marcus & Millichap Commercial - Retail 915 Wilshire Blvd, Ste 1700 Los Angeles, CA 90017 Alexander Kozakov 213.943.1800 alex.kozakov@marcus millichap.com theretailpropertyspecialists.com Sherwood Development Community 320 W Stafford Rd Westlake Village, CA 91361 Samantha Withers 805.496.3036 sherwooddc.com Sotheby’s International Realty Estates Agent - Malibu 3900 Cross Creek Rd Malibu, CA 90265 Wendy Carroll 310.990.2285 wendy@wendycarroll.com wendycarroll.com
Zaya Younan - Founder, Younan Properties
advertising@csqmag.com 818.225.8763 Download our media kit at csqmag.com
Restaurant / Catering Brent’s Deli 2799 Townsgate Rd Westlake Village, CA 91361 805.557.1882 brentsdeli.com Fins Creekside 23504 Calabasas Rd Calabasas, CA 91302 818.223.3467 finsinc.com Fins Seafood Grill 982 S. Westlake Blvd Westlake Village, CA 91362 805.494.6494 finsinc.com Leila’s 52 Lindero Canyon Rd Oak Park, CA 91377 818.707.6939 leilasrestaurant.com
Tra di Noi 3835 Cross Creek Rd Malibu, CA 90265 310.456.0169 tradinoi.com Zin Bistro Americana 32121 Lindero Canyon Rd Ste 111 Westlake Village, CA 91361 818.365.0095 zinbistroamericana.com
Speaker / Training Daryl Wizelman Motivational Speaking 23945 Calabasas Rd, Ste 213 Calabasas, CA 91302 818.876.7337 daryl@wizelman.com blog: heartleader.com
Monrose Catering 31117 Via Colinas Westlake Village, CA 91362 Richard Chesterfield 818.707.7307 monrosecatering.com
Eloqui 4723 Barcelona Ct Calabasas, CA 91302 Deborah Shames David Booth 818.225.7991 dshames@eloqui.biz dbooth@eloqui.biz eloqui.biz
MOZ Budha Bar & Lounge 30105 Agoura Rd Agoura Hills, CA 91301 818.735.0091 mozbar.com
Jim Cathcart - 101 Leaders Institute C-Level / Upper Management 805.777.3477 info@101leaders.com 101leaders.com
STK 755 N La Cienega Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90069 310.659.3535 theonegroup.com
List Your Buisness or service HERE CSQ Magazine Directory advertising@csqmag.com csqmag.com
Burt Sperber - Founder, ValleyCrest Companies
No Other Magazine Does What CSQ Does.
CSQ is Local Business Let CSQ be your conduit to a successful year. Limited space available. still taking 2010 schedules.
CSQMag.com | 75
c-suite quarterly
t h e m o t i vat i o n al mi nute ®
T. Boone Pickens Meet the man whose dedicated himself to changing the world. This oil tycoon, billionaire, and now renewable energy baron, can and will do it. By Michael J. Herman
What’s so unique about T. Boone Pickens? One thing is he didn’t become a billionaire until the age of 70. That’s unusual enough, but in the short time since, he’s amassed a fortune that includes, among other things, significant real estate, oil, petroleum, and yes, even green energy. Pickens is motivated by vision and results. His current plan is called The Pickens Plan. Its thrust: to replace oil and coal as the nation’s primary energy source with wind, solar, and natural gas.
now is the best and perhaps the only time we can make it happen. In other words, we have the momentum now. Let’s harness it. Pickens wants change and if it means building the world’s biggest wind farm or solar paneling the planet, he will do it. And with 8.5 million followers, he has the wind at his back.
On leadership, Pickens has one policy: “Everyone must be on the same page, striving for the same goal. With one vision, we can achieve anything. With the right vision, we can change the world.”
To some, it may seem a contradiction, an oil man bullish on renewable resources, but to the man who started with a lemonade stand at age seven and now runs a global energy enterprise, Pickens has huge plans and they involve making the country energy independent while creating a new economy of green energy priorities.
As he’s often said, “You don’t have to lead in everything, but lead someone somewhere.”
But what is it about T. Boone Pickens that makes him think that a single idea of his called Pickens Plan can change the world?
Pickens walks his walk. T. Boone is a grassroots-type leader who is able to enroll others into his idea of the future. Hell-bent on seeing it through, he has 8.5 million like-minded followers helping him make it happen.
“We have to believe in big ideas in order for us to make our big dreams happen. I think and dream in big ways,” declares the 81-year-old Texan.
The future that T. Boone predicts is heavily focused on renewable energy. “The key is the right leadership and the right legislation. HR 1835 promises a good start with natural gas.”
¾¾ Learn more about Pickens Plan online at pickensplan.com ¾¾ Scientists from Cal Tech in Pasadena predict that future manned space flights may use renewable energy rather than the carbon-based fuels currently in use. ¾¾ 75% of Fortune 500 companies have adopted green energy policies. (Source: CNBC.)
76 | CSQMag.com
(HR 1835 is the amendment to the Internal Revenue Code that encourages alternative energy investments and job creation). While it’s true that T. Boone’s portfolios remain heavily in oil and petroleum, his intention is to get 350,000 of the 6.5 million diesel trucks and busses on U.S. highways converted to natural gas by 2019. “This will make the United States energy independent, which makes us safe and grows a stifling economy.” Why, though, did the Texas-born farm boy turn down his octane on oil? “It’s a matter of national security,” he explains. “As long as the U.S. continues its dependency on foreign oil, the more vulnerable we remain. Oil is expensive and in diminishing supply. Solar, wind, and natural gas are limitless and found in abundance right here at home. We can do this. It’s possible!” And that is precisely T. Boone’s message, that it is possible to be energy independent as a nation and that because of the political climate in America,
Pickens wants wind, solar, and natural gas (all infinitely abundant American resources) to fuel the economy. He sees natural gas as the replacement fuel for diesel in the 6.5 million trucks that cross America. That alone will be taking profound steps to achieve better environmental standards. He will settle for an initial 350,000 transformed by this next decade. When you’re with T-Boone Pickens, you believe! Just like he dreamt of building successful petroleum operations, he now dreams of seeing a greener world, as ubiquitous as gas pumps. He can do it because it’s his dream. We can do it because big dreams make America great. Maybe it’s the Texan in him? Maybe it’s the fact he sees it in his mind and it already seems real to him? Maybe it’s just time? Pickens is pickin’ the direction Americans are going. Are you with him? His father instilled in him a strong work ethic which gives him his formula for success. He tells us, “Believe in yourself, have a dream, and never give up.” He says there’s no real formula, but that’s how he did it. “I’m big on renewable energy. That’s where I see the future going, but autos, trucks, trains, and cargo ships run on gas. There’s no way around that. So we have to find energy solutions that work and have promise in the future.” At his age, Pickens has decided not to make long term plans any more, but he does compel others to take his lead. What lies at the root of T. Boone Pickens’ stellar success is the inherent belief that we can do anything. We can all be great, and we can save the Earth for future generations. Michael J. Herman is a best selling author, syndicated columnist, and motivational speaker.
At Sherwood, mere moments on PARTY OF TWO, STANDING RESERVATION.
the terrace can feel like a special occasion. Lush fairways and rugged natural landscapes combine to both soothe and exhilarate your senses. Spectacular vistas change dramatically through the day and through the seasons. There is a quiet satisfaction, too, in owning a family home created for the generations â&#x20AC;&#x201C; architecturally pure, graciously proportioned, masterfully executed. Behind Sherwood's storied gates, life's simple pleasures can become wonderful events.
For information about custom homesites available from $500,000, new residences offered from the high $1,000,000â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s or membership in Sherwood Lake Club please call 805-373-5992 or visit www.sherwoodcc.com. The Sherwood Lake Club is a separate country club that is not affiliated with Sherwood Country Club. Purchase of a custom homesite or new home does not include membership in Sherwood Country Club or Sherwood Lake Club or any rights to use private club facilities. Please contact Sherwood Country Club directly for any information on Sherwood Country Club. Prices and terms effective date of publication and subject to change without notice. CA DRE #01059113
A
Community
SAFETY. SERVICE. STABILITY. VALUE. THIS IS THE MARQUIS JET CARD Not all private jet card programs are created equal. Only Marquis Jet Card Owners have SM
access to the exclusive NetJets fractional aircraft fleet and infrastructure, 25 hours at ®
a time with no long-term commitment. Our thousands of Marquis Jet Card Owners purchase their Cards with confidence based upon the value we deliver. Value derived from having access to NetJets, a Berkshire Hathaway company, operator of the world’s largest and most reliable private jet fleet. With NetJets thousands of highly trained pilots, your safety aboard a NetJets flight is paramount and is never compromised. You get what you pay for, especially in private aviation and jet cards.
THE MARQUIS JET * CARD – NETJETS 25 HOURS AT A TIME. CALL TODAY. 877.538.2804 OR VISIT WWW.MARQUISJET.COM All program flights operated by NetJets companies under their respective FAR Part 135 Air Carrier Certificates. Marquis Jet Card Owners acquire a sublease in a pre-paid NetJets fractional aircraft ownership interest. *Marquis Jet is an independent company not affiliated with NetJets and through its exclusive U.S. alliance sells the Marquis Jet Card.