the greatest athlete in the wo rld p . 8 8 | m u l l i n a u t om ot i v e m u s e u m p . 7 4
SUMMER 2010 ISSUE
the indispensable guide to Business + Luxury + Lifestyle
C - S U I T E QUARTERLY
Jeffrey Immelt Chairman and CEO,
General Electric On Business, Life & GE’s $15 Million Partnership with the Reagan Presidential Foundation
the new TITAN CLUB Ferrari 458 iPad GREEN COAST W HOLLYWOOD
csqmag.com
HEALTH CARE Reform
LA
U P TOWN
2 | CSQMag.com
CSQMag.com | 3
WWW.OLIVERPEOPLES.COM
SHIRLEY MANSON WEARS REES ELIJAH WOOD WEARS RILEY W/ FLIP-UP CLIP-ON
4783 COMMONS WAY SUITE C • CALABASAS, CA 91302 TEL: (818) 222-WINK • WINKOPTOMETRY.COM
Unique
Indulgence
31943 Agoura Road, Westlake Village ď ł (818) 889-0230 ď ł westlakevillageinn.com
tHe C-SUITE Are tHe leAders wItHIN tHeIr orgANIzAtIoNs or INdustrIes wHose tItle CustoMArIly BegINs wItH CHIef. Ie: Ceo, Cfo, Coo.
CSUITEQuArterly
Contents vIsIoNArIes 50 | Jeffrey IMMelt The Chairman and CeO of General electric answers our questions about his committment to the ongoing legacy of President ronald reagan, the future of Ge, and more. 88 | BryAN ClAy Deemed the greatest athlete in the world, what’s next for this Olympic gold medalist? 32 | JeANNette dIrKseN & MelIssA KIelINg The creators of Packit share how it takes a village to start a business.
50
feAtures
28
46 38
CSQadvisory
24 |
tHe four seAsoNs tItAN CluB A new private membership club for the business titans of LA uptown.
26 |
IpAd, NetBooK, or NoteBooK Looking for a full-blown computer, something to read books on, or both? Figure out which gadget is right for you.
28 |
BusINess INsIgHt Three professionals share their knowledge about privacy protection, investing in a down market, and public relations crisis management.
38 |
golf getAwAy: BANdoN duNes Take a trip up north to play one of the most highly-rated courses in the u.S. while enjoying the Oregon Coast.
46 |
Meet Me IN MoNACo royalty, history, sport, luxury, and culture combine to make this small slice of land a mediterranean heaven.
70 |
tHe greeN CoAst INNovAtIoN zoNe Three Southern California counties are coming together to become a green beacon for the rest of the nation.
56
GIVInG wIThoUT EXpECTATIon By Daryl Wizelman
62
woRK / LIFE BALAnCE IS noT EnoUGh By John horton, mD
58
CoRpoRATE pATEnT STRATEGIES By Steven C. Sereboff
64
MASTERInG LEASE nEGoTIATIonS By Sheryl L. mazirow
60
SUCCESS BREEdS MEdIoCRITY By Scott harris
66
A pEnnY SAVEd IS A pEnnY TAXEd By Alan S. hopkins
68
hEALTh CARE REFoRM By martin Levy
25
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 | 9
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
77 Bellavino Unleashing the mystery of inspired fine wine, paired with innovative delicacies and all that jazz 78 Business Lunch Three places to talk business and have a great meal – in the middle of the day 74 The Mullin Auto Museum Peter Mullin’s rolling sculptures now at home in Oxnard, California
79 Happy Hour Our recommendations for after work socializing and cocktail specials in Uptown
24 Four Seasons Titan Club New elite executive membership club comes to Westlake Village
DEPARTMENTS
Destinations
LA DINING
14 editor's letter The Approach
34 48 HOURS Ojai Rising Ojai may have grown up in the shadow of Santa Barbara and Ventura but has come into its own
16 Contributors See who added their expertise to this issue 18 desirables Unique items and experiences 22 AUTOLUX Ferrari 458 A 4.5 liter V8 launches this new model to 60mph in just 3.4 seconds 25 Buying Time Going for the (rose) gold Rose gold timepieces are a perfect for any wardrobe 72 REquired reading
38 GOLF GETAWAY BANDON DUNES, OREGON Take a trip up north to play one of the most highly rated courses in the U.S. while enjoying the natural beauty of the Oregon Coast 46 INTERNATIONAL Meet Me In Monaco Royalty, history, sport, luxury, and culture combine to make this small slice of land a Mediterranean heaven
45 XIV A stunning global village of flavor and adventure on the Sunset Strip
88 The Motivational ® Minute
BRYAN CLAY by Michael J. Herman
THE City Suite
80 uptown events
22 42 w goes hollywood W Hotels has pulled out all the stops to establish its latest destination as the hotel group’s new flagship property
88
T HE G R E ATE S T ATH L E TE IN THE W ORLD p . 88 | M ULLI N A UTO M O TI V E MU SE U M p .7 4
SUMMER 2010 ISSUE
the indispensable guide to Business + Luxury + Lifestyle
LA
C - S U I T E QUARTERLY
UPTOWN
JEFFREY IMMELT CHAIRMAN AND CEO,
C - S U I T E QUARTERLY
GENERAL ELECTRIC On Business, Life & GE’s $15 Million Partnership with the Reagan Presidential Foundation
info@csqmag.com | www.csqmag.com
the new
pUBLIShEd BY CEo/EdIToR In ChIEF SVp, opERATIonS MAnAGInG EdIToR / ART dIRECToR
TITAN CLUB FERRARI 458 iPAD GREEN COAST W HOLLYWOOD
csqmag.com
HEALTH CARE Reform
CSQ_2010Q2-Covers_v1.indd 1
5/12/10 12:36:28 AM
eNergIe MedIA group, INC. dAvId wurtH ryAN AddIs MIKe seversoN
dIRECToR oF MARKETInG & EVEnTS HIllAry gAdsBy hgadbsy@csqmag.com AdVERTISInG SALES sArA BurAtto-MCMullIN sara@csqmag.com MArCellA BlAKe marcella@csqmag.com dorIe leo CopY EdIToR dAle BeCK EXECUTIVE ASSISTAnT tIffANy weAtHerMAN
Get LA uptown’s indispensable guide to business, luxury, and lifestyle. SUBSCRIBE onLInE AT CSQMAG.CoM NEW A NGEL I NVEST I NG M O D E L | N O M O R E E S TAT E TA X ? | SO Y: S U M M E D U P + MO R E
SPRING 2010 ISSUE
the indispensable guide to the Business Lifestyle C - S U I T E QUARTERLY
LA | U PTOW N
ANOTHER DECADE DOWN, WHERE ARE WE NOW?
SEnIoR EdIToRS Elyse Glickman, Michael J. Herman, dianne Sukiennik, Michael reiss ConTRIBUTInG EdIToRS Bill Buratto, Jim Cathcart, Marc Cohen, Gordon durich, lauren kane, rebecca Miller, robert J. rebhan, david kreinces, annabelle frankl, Tim Gallagher, Eric Severson ConTRIBUTInG AdVISoRS Mike davis, Sheryl Mazirow, alan Hopkins, daryl Wizelman, John Horton M.d., Stephen C. Sereboff Esq., Martin levy, Scott Harris STAFF phoToGRAphER MoNICA teurlINgs info@monicateurlings.com ConTRIBUTInG phoToGRAphERS steveN vote, roBBy K, sArAH rICo CoVER phoTo steveN vote REGIonAL dISTRIBUTIon MAnAGER rIgHt-wAy dIstrIButIoN RETAIL CIRCULATIon MAnAGER MAgAzINe dIstrIButIoN group ACCoUnTInG ANdy levINsoN, gIsH seIdeN alevinson@gishseiden.com BooKKEEpInG tIM HugHes tim@hughesgs.com SpECIAL ThAnKS roB BAuer AdVERTISInG And MARKETInG InQUIRIES EdIToRIAL InQUIRIES And SUBMISSIonS To SUBMIT EVEnTS FoR CoVERAGE FoR SUBSCRIpTIon InFoRMATIon
AdvertIsINg@CsQMAg.CoM 818/225.8763 edItorIAls@CsQMAg.CoM 818/225.8168 eveNts@CsQMAg.CoM CsQMAg.CoM
CSQ Magazine is published four times a year by ENERGIE MEDIA GROUP, Inc. It is mailed to C-level executives, business owners, and ultra-high net worth residences as well as distributed at upscale locations throughout Los Angeles and Ventura Counties by EnERGIE MEdIA GRoUp, InC. 23945 CAlABAsAs rd. suIte 213 CAlABAsAs, CA 91302 818/225.8168
T. Boone Pickens on Changing the World iPhone vs. Android What does this mean for Apple? Port Hueneme Then & Now
BOB YALLEN President, Inter/Media Group LAS VEGAS, REDEFINED IMPRESSION MANAGEMENT BRINGING ART TO UPTOWN
All rights reserved. CSQ and C-Suite Quarterly are registered trademarks of ENERGIE MEDIA GROUP, INC.
THE FUTURE...OF YOU
$6.95 | csqmag.com
+ more
12 | CSQMag.com
No articles, illustrations, photographs, or any other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be
STEPHAN WINKELMANN CEO AUTOMOBILI LAMBORGHINI S.P.A.
reproduced without permission of copyright owner. Printed in the U.S.A.
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
The C-Suite are the leaders within their organizations or industries whose title customarily begins with Chief. IE: CEO, CFO, COO.
CSUITEQUARTERLY
Editor’s Note
Seeing opportunity As we all know, one of the keys to life is not the challenges we face, but the way we respond to those challenges. Every person deals with every situation in their own way, but to successfully battle all hurdles is a process born in the mind. Photo by Monica Teurlings
Attitude, as they say, is everything. Winston Churchill once noted, “A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.” Sometimes, it’s a matter of focusing. In this issue, Olympic decathlete Bryan Clay (pg. 88) discusses how he has learned to focus with laser-like intensity on making his body perform, shutting out all other distractions. Using an iPod, he blocks out all negative thoughts on his way to becoming a gold medal performer. Clay passionately believes that the winner of the mental game is the winner of most outcomes. It’s all about meeting forseeable challenges head on with a positive attitude. Others face hurdles through immediate and decisive action. Taking the helm of General Electric days before the 9-11 disaster, CEO and Chairman Jeffrey Immelt made decisions during this challenging time period which would eventually affect not only the company as a whole, but the individuals under his watch, if not America in its entirety (pg. 50). If you’re an entrepreneur, you just rode the trough of a very deep wave, hence, as we approach the upswing, there’s no better time to approach tomorrow’s success than today. Take Jeannette and Melissa, founders and creators of PackIt (pg. 32) for instance, who only a few years back thought of an idea that would make
14 | CSQMag.com
their lives easier. Instead of sitting on their concept, they quickly embraced the resources in their environment and pursued it to the hilt in what was arguably the absolute worst time (or best time) to start a business – just into one of the worst economic periods in U.S. history. Ignoring their critics and ‘staying the course,’ the team today is preparing for grander exposure through national and international retail distribution. Finally, I admire those that maintain a strong enough belief in themselves to forge forward, regardless of the hurdles that may be faced. Struggle is almost always inevitable and certainly a key ingredient for character development; character is the fabric of those that choose to charge ahead, learn from experience, and use that practical education for not only their own good, to be their best, but for the good of others as well. Thank you for taking the time to read this issue, once again, filled with leaders, motivators, and educators. Hopefully through the process, you will pick up something that will enhance your life, add perspective, or make things just a little bit easier.
David Wurth - Editor in Chief david@csqmag.com
“ C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
are of a kind
1
Company... ...forged from one of a kind
9
Companies.”
- Robert Yallen, CEO
Inter/Media Advertising® - Direct Response and General Media Inter/Media Time Buying® - Offline Media Buying and Optimization Inter/Quantum® - Strategic Marketing, Retail Placement, and Sales Inter/Image Productions® - Print, Radio, and Television Production MediaPoint Network® - Performance Based Advertising Inter/Post Productions® Editorial - Editing, Dubbing, and Customization InfoTech Development™ - Development of Proprietary Software and Analysis Technology Inter/Media Interactive™ - Online Planning, Buying, Sales Representation, and Creative American Target Network™ - An Unwired Network Delivering CPMs Lower Than National Equivalents
*
1-800-TIME-BUY
www.Intermedia-Advertising.com We would be happy to talk with you about new opportunities for your company.
CSUITEQUARTERLY
Contributors
David Kriences p29 David is the founder and portfolio manager for ETF Portfolio Management (ETF PM), a financial advisory firm in Newbury Park that specializes in leading investment strategies. David is one of the few portfolio managers worldwide to deliver gains in the crash of 2008, and he is the first to offer free strategic core portfolios. David formerly worked for Merrill Lynch in Westlake Village and for Bear Stearns in New York. During his tenure with Bear Stearns, David was instrumental in making his team a top ranked research department. David is also passionate about education and serves on the Board of the Conejo Schools Foundation.
Steven Vote p50 Internationally acclaimed, Steven Vote is an award-winning Australian photographer, fine artist, published author, and filmmaker who divides his time between New York City and Western Massachusetts. In addition to his celebrated work in advertising, editorial, food, and travel photography, Steven has a special interest in telling visual stories. With collectors in Europe and North America, his work has been featured in American Photo, PDN, Popular Photography, Applied Arts and singled out by Graphis Photo Annual for exceptional imagery.
ANNABELLE Frankl p46 Annabelle Frankl is VP, Business Development for My Yacht F1, a luxury Formula 1 hospitality event at the Monaco and Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. In addition, she has been working as a freelance writer / producer / director, with a focus on automotive, for the past decade or so. Her pleasurable pursuits include road rallies, skiing double black diamonds, Burning in the desert, and seeing the world. Annabelle graduated from Kingston University U.K. in 1994 with a BA Joint Honors degree in French and Politics. She splits her time between her birth place, London, and West Hollywood, CA. She can be reached at annabelle@myyachtf1.com
tim gallagher p30 Tim Gallagher is president of Gallagher 20/20 Consulting, a Westlake Village public relations firm. He specializes in earning your business’ way into news stories where they carry the greatest credibility. Before starting Gallagher 20/20, he had a 30-year career in the newspaper business in which he rose from intern to the top job at one of the nation’s largest papers in one of its most competitive markets. Born in Brooklyn, Gallagher graduated from the University of New Mexico in 1978 with degrees in journalism and English. Gallagher can be reached at Gallagher 20/20 in Westlake Village, California, (805) 230-1920 or tim@gallagher2020.com
Mike Severson p32 Originally from just outside Portland, Oregon, Mike moved to Los Angeles over a decade ago, Journalism degree in hand, ready to become a media mogul. Today he is the managing editor and art director of CSQ Magazine; two hats that are rarely worn by the same person. His goal with every issue is to provide useful information presented in a way that is both interesting and attractive. He would like to thank you for reading, your support, and your kind words...and reminds you to be sure to visit us online at www.csqmag.com soon and often.
Ü S
Ü S
Ü S
S5=S SSSS6S Ü> > Ü> > S;S S5=S SSSSS6S Ü> > S5=S SSS6S Ü> >S S S;SSS;S Ü> >Ü> > S S S S S S S S S S¡<5< S65;F4468 > > S > > S S¡<5< S65;F4468 > > S S¡<5< S65;F4468
CSUITEQuArterly / desirables By lauren kane
gone are the days of the bulky camcorders that rest on your shoulder. welcome to the days of the flip. It’s smaller than the iphone and has everything needed built into its tiny body.
flIp out IN HIgH def starting at $199 www.theflip.com
The Flip is so light, it’s easy to take anywhere and film anything. All it takes is the touch of a single button. the software is built into the camera, so editing and sharing is easier than ever. the software appears on your computer desktop as soon as you plug in the flip’s builtin usB connection. there are no wires and it charges when it is plugged into the computer. this little camera is so fun to use, you’ll want to record everything. It’s great on vacation and camping trips with its compact size, and the high quality video makes it a great option for special events. plug it into your tv and share the videos with friends and family on the big screen when you’re done. the new Hd line in the flip family work just like the original flips, but of course have bigger screens and high definition quality. The easy to use interface is still just as easy with its clearly labeled buttons and onscreen prompts. even the least technologically savvy can use this sweet little camera to capture the best moments in full Hd. there are four Hd models in the flip family ranging from $199.99 - $279.99 theflip.com
A wHole New dIMeNsIoN IN eNtertAINMeNt
The Samsung 3D LED 8000 offers amazing
$3499.99
tv’s 55-inch screen. the advancements in
www.wilshirehe.com www.samsung.com
clarity, 3d technology, and samsung web apps that allow you to stream movies, flip through photos, and play games, all on the 3d technology offer a crisp image we are used to with 2d screens.
New 3d glasses are active liquid crystal shutter glasses that block each eye in a sequence to view the 3d image in perfect clarity. samsung is currently offering a free 3d starter kit with the purchase of this tv and the BdC6900 3d Blu-ray player. It comes with two pairs of 3d glasses and a copy of “Monsters vs. Aliens 3D” (valued at $349). Check out wilshire Home entertainment to see what they can offer you in 3d entertainment.
18 | CSQMag.com
CSUITEQuArterly / desirables
tIMe to wINd starting at $195 www.wolfdesigns.com
A luxurious automatic watch deserves to be taken care of and loved. enter the wolf designs line of watch winders. the viceroy 2.7 is a sleek single winder with a leather cover. Its oversized drum can hold the large pieces and comes with a “snug fit” cuff to ensure that smaller timepieces stay in place. The specifications can be set to your standards, including how many turns per day and directional options. the glass front locks into place, and it can store up to three more watches. the wolf designs watch winders allow you to take a break from an automatic watch without the worries of having to reset it when you put it back on. the watch winder does all the work for you. If you have more than one automatic watch and want to make sure all of them continue ticking while you’re not wearing them, wolf designs offers winders that can hold up to eight watches. the single watch winder starts at $195, with no cover or extra storage. the viceroy 2.7 is priced at $350. with these luxuious winders, you’ll never be out of time.
MultI-touCH tee off $30 www.viewti.com or iTunes App Store
looking to improve your golf game but don’t want to pay for the private lessons? enter the viewti golf 2010 iphone app. for about $30 you can view over 27,000 courses worldwide through gps and track your progress. the app will show all courses in the area you’re in, and you can select the course
you are playing. while playing, track your progress by selecting the club you’re using and where the ball landed. there is a multi-player score card as well for easy score keeping. for more detailed assistance with your game, go to the practice function and take a picture or video of your swing to get a frame-by-frame analysis. you can even get “lessons” from the top pros. the advanced statistics function allows you to manage clubs and view results by the round or course. It gives you the average length of your drives and your longest drive. Many more helpful features make this app worth the $30 price tag and makes personal lessons a thing of the past. there are so many features on this app to improve your game, you’ll be a golf pro soon. watch out pgA tour.
doN’t fret tHe sMAll stuff
vintage guitars are
vintage guitar gems, CA
and when you can
805/371.7654
definitely pieces of art worth collecting get your hands on
one that a guitar legend has played, even better. pictured here is an ultra-rare vintage 1970 eric Clapton and yvonne elliman hand played Martin d12-20 12 string guitar. used on the ‘let It grow’ song at Criteria studios during recording, which was on Eric’s “461 ocean blvd.” album and the follow-up tour. Mahogany sides and back spruce top, beautiful rosewood fretboard and great sounding. with hard case stenciled ‘the eric Clapton group’. Also including a hand signed certificate of authenticity by eric Clapton and yvonne.
A global leader, located in Westlake Village The global experience you need is readily available right here through a UBS Wealth Advisor. Whether it’s financing a business opportunity, acquiring property, adding resiliency to your portfolio or planning for the future, with UBS you are ideally positioned. But it’s the relationships we forged with our clients that we consider our greatest asset. We invite you to have a conversation with Moneta Wealth Management. Joseph Teurlings, CFA, CFP®, CIMA® First Vice President–Investments Wealth Advisor Advisory & Brokerage Services 818-874-2747 joseph.teurlings@ubs.com
Steven Carmandalian, CIMA® First Vice President–Investments Wealth Advisor Advisory & Brokerage Services 818-874-2746 steven.carmandalian@ubs.com
31111 Agoura Road, Westlake Village, CA 91361 www.ubs.com/team/moneta
UBS Financial Services Inc. is a subsidiary of UBS AG. ©2010 UBS Financial Services Inc. All rights reserved. Member SIPC. CFA® and Chartered Financial Analyst® are trademarks owned ® by the CFA Institute. CFP® is a certification mark owned by Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. CIMA is a registered certification mark of the Investment Management Consultants Association, Inc. in the United States of America and worldwide. 31.14_Ad_7.125x5_HY0430_TeuJ
CSUITEQuArterly / desirables
AutoLux
fErrari 458 By Dale Beck
F
leet afoot and nimble, this latest evolution from Ferrari arrives on the street with eye-stopping brilliance, taking its cue in a big way from the company’s rich experience in F1 automotive racing. The Ferrari F458 Italia, introduced last September at the Frankfurt Motor Show, follows much speculation as to how (or rather if) the company could create the next level of performance following the success of the Ferrari F430. Indeed they did, this exciting new machine coming with a new engine, improved aerodynamics, superior handling, improved instrumentation, and refined cabin ergonomics. Powered by a direct-injected 4.5 liter mid-rear mounted V8 which muscles out 562 horse power and 398 lb-ft torque, it redlines at a lofty 9,000 RPM, the first on a road car. A high 12.5:1 compression ratio and maximum power output of 127 HP/liter creates a new benchmark for a naturally-aspirated engine. Pedal down, she sprints from 0 to 60 MPH in a scant 3.4 seconds and is capable of galloping down the highway (or road course) at a top speed of 202 MPH. The F458 weighs in at only 3,042 pounds dry as new alloys join the traditional aluminum structure, resulting in a chassis with improved structural rigidity, up 15 percent from its predecessor. Portions of the body are razor thin, the roof only .04 inches thick. Classic Ferrari handling is supplied by a double wishbone suspension in the front and a multi-link set-up at the rear. The suspension is enhanced with magnetorheological shock absorbers, keeping the carriage quiet while traveling over the always annoying street and highway ripples. An electronic differential continuously distributes torque to the rear wheels during both deceleration and acceleration phases of a turn, thanks in part to the integration with the F1-Trac control software. The standard transmission is a Getrag dual-clutch 7-speed automated manual gearbox, similar to the Ferrari California.
22 | CSQMag.com
MSRp $275,000 EnGInE 4.5 liTEr, Mid-rEar V8 0-60 Mph 3.4 SECOndS Top SpEEd 202 MPH Stopping power is enhanced by brakes that include a prefill function whereby the pistons in the calipers move the pads into contact with the discs on lift off to minimize delay in the brakes being applied. Created with compact aerodynamics in mind, the Pininfarina design displays lines that are performance oriented. The nose features a single opening for the front grille and side air intakes, with aerodynamic sections designed to direct air to the coolant radiators. On approach, note the aeroelastic winglets in the grill, designed to deform downward as speed builds, increasing downward force, reducing radiator intake while cutting drag. Going away, the brilliant new look features triple exhaust tail pipes. Inside, the cockpit was created with input from Formula 1 driver Michael Schumacher and features a new steering wheel which incorporates many features and controls previously relegated to the dashboard, bearing a striking similarity to race car designs. Steering wheel components include a five-position manettino rotary switch governing traction and stability control, suspension, and shift settings. Multi-dimensional, the sound Ferrari fans have come to love arrives early when the bypass flaps in the silencers fully open, creating the deep-throated roar with a rich resonating clarity, a hallmark of Ferraris. With a base sticker price of approximately $275,000, the Ferrari 458 Italia has been met with resounding applause, termed by The Daily Mail as “an awesome example of car-making at its highest level and is probably the finest sports car you can buy.”
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.”
CSUITEQuArterly / lifestyle
Private Clubs
NEW MEMBERSHIP CLUB FOR “TITANS” LAUNCHING At tHe four seAsoNs westlAKe vIllAge
TITANClub
FoUR SEASonS wESTLAKE VILLAGE two dole drIve westlAKe vIllAge, CA 91362 818/575.3000 for membership inquiries contact Becky leehey at 818/575.1420 becky.leehey@fourseasons.com
24 | CSQMag.com
T
he 101 business corridor spans from Woodland Hills to the area west of Camarillo. It’s home to over 45 publicly held companies, thousands of entrepreneurs, privately held businesses, their leaders, a variety of powerful networking and educational organizations for everyone from advisory level professionals to CEO’s, and over $200 billion in annual revenues. The influencers in this region find ways to network and interact at the plentiful and well-hidden golf and tennis clubs there. Yet, on a daily basis, there is no common office away from the office; no social club with a business emphasis. According to the founders of the Titan Club, there hasn’t been one until now. The Four Seasons Westlake Village has recently launched this private membership club for executives only. With everything from a private executive lounge to gym and spa benefits, meeting room access throughout the property, to usage of the world renowned health center under one roof (the California Health and
Longevity Institute), this is the place for executives to meet. Club members enjoy red carpet service, daily coffee, concierge services, and even dry cleaning. There is a non-solicitation policy within the exclusive club and a criteria for involvement, so C-level executives can feel comfortable conducting business in an accessible environment that caters to their tastes and expectations while entertaining, relaxing, or just getting down to business. “This is not a golf club,” quotes a founding member and regional investment banker. “This is a place for me to enjoy the company of my professional peers or hold a coffee meeting. I call it my second office.” Memberships also include spousal packages and an elite concierge service option for an additional cost. With everything expected from Four Seasons first class service and five-star amenities on-site, Titan Club will also be holding membership events and retreats offsite as well. Members pride themselves on building more than just a club, but a community.
GOinG fOr TH E GOld
CSUITEQuArterly / desirables
By dale Beck FRANC VILA FV EVOS Nº 1 “COBRA” TOURBILLON plANÉtAIre 5 dAys power reserve From Franc Vila’s Cobra collection comes this exquisite first evolution of the “esprit” unique watchcase. Dedicated to aficionados of extreme sports, this timepiece was specially conceived to withstand the rigors of hard and intense water activities. the “Inertial Moment Control” technology allows a precise adjustment through inertial moment, and the “Wheels Differential System” is a radically new spherical differential system used to wind the power reserve; with wheel arms directly incorporating the planetary gears hand-made and hand-decorated. It’s limited to eight pieces in red gold and eight pieces in dieHard and extreme steel. Traditional Jewelers, 310/317.9100 or 949/721.9020
rICHArd MIlle CAlIBer rM 008-v2 felIpe MAssA IN red gold A new era in watchmaking begins with the Chronograph richard Mille rM 008-v2. Complete with technological inovations such as a 70-hour power reserve, chronograph, split-second mechanism, torque indicator, and balance wheel, it arrives after years of research and development. spline screws in grade 5 titanium are used for the bridges and case, permitting better control of the torque applied to the screws during assembly, there allowing them to be unaffected by physical manipulation during assembly or disassembly, and will age well. Westime, Beverly Hills, 310/271.0000
HuBlot rose gold CerAMIC evolutIoN An exemplary model of Hublot’s strength, power, and elegance, the rose gold Ceramic evolution represents the brand’s constant innovation. the fusion of black ceramic, rose gold, and rubber combine Hublot’s signature aesthetics of power and luxury. It houses an automatic chronograph movement, which is only accentuated by the carbon fiber dial. Its rubber strap features an embossed cut-out pattern, adding to its already strong look. Polacheck’s Jewelers, 818/225.0600
Buying Time
CSUITEQUARTERLY / desirables
BizTech
iPad, Netbook or Notebook The Decision is Yours
w By Marc Cohen
ell, here we go again. Sounds like the Blu-ray vs. HD battle a few years ago. In that case, there had to be a clear cut winner. This time, the story is a little different. If you want portability, full computer access, and a keyboard, then the netbook is clearly the winner. For about $300, you can get a reasonably sized screen, all the functionality of a full blown computer, and something that can be stashed in a briefcase or purse. I’m not a huge netbook fan, though, because I find the keyboard a little too small for my liking, but for functionality and size, it’s your best bet, especially if you don’t like carrying a full-size laptop, which can be quite heavy while making a mad dash through LAX to catch your flight. Laptops, though, allow you to watch a DVD, run a PowerPoint presentation, and enjoy a full-sized keyboard. Now enter the iPad; the ultimate entertainment system. I really do think Apple does many things right. They have style, performance, and clearly superior marketing. For little more than $500, you will get a giant iTouch that looks spectacular. Personally, I would buy one, but I’m just not sure how many others will find the allure. If you own an iTouch, you basically own the iPad. The real question is, how many people will pony up between $500 and $900 for a larger version?
26 | CSQMag.com
I find it intriguing. Not owning an iPhone or iTouch, it’s very appealing to have a device that I can take around the house, get a nice large screen, Internet access, and entertainment. I don’t have to carry a six pound, 17-inch laptop from room to room or when I travel. The quality, as expected, is quite spectacular. You can choose between Wi-Fi or a combination including a 3g connection. The 3g will run about $30 per month. So are you willing to pay $30 a month for your cell phone connection and an additional $30 for the iPad? I have doubts as to how many people are going to do this. Here is what you don’t get with an iPad that you do get with a netbook or laptop: • Video ChatFlash (Oops, no Farmville!) • Programming (the ability to add your own software) • Unlimited storage spaceCD Drive for watching DVD movies • Only a virtual keyboard It seems there are lots of minuses and just a few pluses for the iPad. At the end of the day, there is going to be a market for all three products. Personally, I plan to buy an iPad. Why? Because I am a gadget freak! For the rest of those that aren’t nearly as crazy as I am, check out the netbook. It will probably do everything you need and still leave you with enough cash for the next great gadget, coming soon to your local Best Buy. My biggest fear is that everything that can be invented has been invented. Wait, I just saw this great ad for a new, full sized robot for my house. I will keep you posted…See you on the radio.
Marc Cohen hosts the syndicated show “Computer and Technology Radio” on WS Radio with his co-host Marsha Collier, author of the EBay for Dummies series. www.computerandtechnologyradio.com
CSUITEQUARTERLY / business
Insight
INDUSTRY: privacy protection
Quick Tips for Financial Security Robert J. Rebhan Former LAPD Detective & Financial Crimes Expert If you want to reduce your vulnerability to identity theft, stop depending upon others to protect you. It’s all about you and what you do. Credit monitoring services can be a tool incorporated into your overall defensive plan, but they are not the whole plan. The police cannot protect you. The courts cannot protect you. Your bank, your homeowner’s
Review Your Credit and Bank Statements as
association, your local politician, and guardian angels can-
Soon as they Arrive. Match all credit card receipts
not protect you. It is all about you and what you do.
against the statement and then destroy the slips if not needed for tax purposes. Do not delay reporting unauthor-
Look At Your House. Sadly, identity thieves are often
ized charges or missing statements. You have a limited
related to their victims, or they are individuals invited into
amount of time to dispute customer service issues and
our homes to perform services, so take a look around. Is
fraud.
your checkbook, wallet, handbag, or financial document sitting out in view of workers, visiting neighbors, nosy
Use Caution When Using the ATM. Thieves some-
relations, or domestic help? If so, secure them! Why tempt
times rig the ATM equipment to record account numbers
a dear nephew who needs to pay off a Texas-hold-em poker
or trap inserted cards. Then they use hidden cameras, or
debt?
they shoulder surf (peeking over your body to capture PIN numbers). Later in the day, they can withdraw your money.
Protect Your Mail. Identity thieves steal mail to get
Politely ask the encroaching person behind you to give you
your check, credit card, banking, and/or other personal
some privacy.
information. After delivery, promptly remove mail from your mailbox. NEVER, NEVER, NEVER, place outgoing mail in
If your card ever gets stuck in the ATM and it is the week-
your curbside mailbox, raising the red flag indicating “pick-
end, immediately use your cell phone to cancel the account.
up.” Deposit outgoing mail at the post office, not in any type
Criminals sometimes insert a device to “trap” cards and
of unsecured street mail receptacles.
steal them when you walk away.
Shred. Purchase a criss-cross shredder that makes
Review Your Credit Reports. You will minimize the
confetti out of your unwanted documents and mail. Destroy
damage and shorten the life of a financial intrusion if you
anything with personal information on it.
read the reports. Every 12 months, you can get the first reports free of charge. If you need more frequent reports
Sign Checks, Credit Cards and Other
to relieve stress and increase your level of awareness, feel
Documents with a “Gel” Ink Pen. This ink is near
free to buy more copies from each of the three major credit
impossible for crooks to chemically “wash” the ink off.
bureaus. You can access all three via the Web at
Eighty-five household products like oven cleaner, bleach,
www.annualcreditreport.com, or by phoning 877/322.8228.
and automobile brake fluid can be used by thieves to steal your money by altering checks.
28 | CSQMag.com
Mr. Rebhan is an expert and speaker on the issue of financial crimes. He is a former Los Angeles Police Detective Sergeant and a special consultant to the American Express Company. His Web site is www.robertrebhan.com.
INDUSTRY: FINANCIAL SERVICES
Investment Lessons You Need to Know David S. Kreinces
Founder & Portfolio Manager ETF Portfolio Management (ETF PM) The ‘90s were one of the best decades in history for the S&P 500. Back then, many people thought investing was easy. Today, not so much. The main U.S. stock index returned almost 400% in the 90’s and then fell by -9% this past decade. Investors eventually learned that nobody can predict the future consistently and that asset allocation typically drives performance. So, what else do you need to know? Learn about the leading investment strategies, employ strategic core diversification, and focus on the right data. Leading Investment Strategies Rules-based trend following is the only growth-oriented investment strategy that delivered gains in both of the equity market crashes this decade. Like index investing, the edge in trend-following stems from its efficient rules-based process. Since investors are unable to consistently predict the future, it’s a critical distinction that these strategies are “reactive,” rather than “predictive.” Strategic Core Diversification Legendary investors, such as Warren Buffet and David Swensen, adamantly recommend index-oriented core portfolios with strategic multi-asset class diversification and ultra-low expenses. David Swensen manages Yale’s multi-billion dollar endowment fund and his industry leading performance makes him an ideal resource for all investors.
In Swensen’s book, “Unconventional Success,” he provides an efficient core growth portfolio comprised of six exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Over the past decade, Swensen’s core portfolio gained well over 70%, more than double the 32% gain from a simple 70/30 growth portfolio (70% S&P 500 and 30% long-term treasuries). Investors that monitor Swensen’s free core portfolio will probably find that it’s very difficult to outperform this portfolio long-term. The Right Data The right data pertains, on a long-term basis, to risk, return, diversification, and process. Regarding risk, don’t underestimate the benefit of smaller losses. An investment that loses 50% of its value must subsequently gain 100% to break-even, so look for investment strategies with a history of smaller losses. Next, be sure to evaluate the long-term compound annual return. At the bare minimum, review the three to five year performance figures. The emotional reflex to focus on short-term data is a distraction because the best long-term investment strategies will underperform at times. Diversification refers to the degree in which your investments move in-synch. Try to have some investments doing well when others struggle. This criterion leaves investors searching for strategies that delivered gains in 2008, such as trend following. Lastly, evaluate the process. We find the greatest value in strategies that offer a range in reactive exposure to multipleasset classes, with liquidity, transparency, overriding risk control, and no leverage. Read a more in depth version at csqmag.com David S. Kreinces is the Founder and Portfolio Manager of ETF Portfolio Management (ETF PM), a financial advisory firm specializing in rules-based investing. He is an expert in trend following and has successfully delivered gains in the recent market downturn. ETF PM also offers free core portfolios; the firm pledges to donate 15% of its annual advisory fees to the schools and charities selected by clients. www.etfpm.com, www.freecoreportfolios.com
CSQMag.com | 29
CSUITEQUARTERLY / business
Insight
INDUSTRY: PUBLIC RELATIONS
Crisis Communications Management Tim Gallagher
President Gallagher 20/20 Consulting The nation’s largest maker of implanted heart devices, Medtronic, said yesterday that it was urging doctors to stop using a crucial component because it was prone to a defect that has apparently been linked to five deaths and has malfunctioned in hundreds of patients. The New York Times, Oct. 15, 2007 Medtronic reported a surprising 59 percent boost in second-quarter profit Tuesday, as increased sales of implantable heart devices defied reports of weakening demand from competitors. The Associated Press, Nov. 24, 2009 At first glance, these two paragraphs might not seem to make sense. If you tell the world there is something wrong with the product you make or the service you offer, you can expect to go out of business soon, right? Wrong. In crisis management for business and people, the most important lesson is to tell the truth, as much of the whole truth as you know, and as quickly as possible. Tell it loudly and use all of the media tools available. The public, the prosecutors, and the pundits forgive your mistakes quickly if you practice transparency. Those companies or individuals who deny culpability or conceal the truth pay an added penalty in the court of law and the court of public opinion when the truth finally comes out. Think Enron. Now think Medtronic. In the case cited at the beginning of this article, the natural inclination for Medtronic might have been to delay, to hide the “bad news,” to blame someone else, to deny the test results, etc. Anything but accept responsibility. Following the “delay, deny, and blame” strategy might buy you some time if you have a problem. But reporters (even the dwindling few in the news media these days) and SEC regulators have a way of eventually getting
to the facts. It is one thing to make an error in business. It is another to know about the error and lie. Telling your story honestly – even if you made a mistake – pays off in a shorter news cycle for your bad news. Look at Toyota. Sales are already beginning to bounce back after some of the worst publicity any company has ever received. I recently helped a small business owner whose momentary mistake with a former employee had the potential to destroy her family business. She had terminated an employee who decided to take some company merchandise in lieu of a final paycheck. But the merchandise was worth a lot more than the check. The business owner went to the former employee’s home to reclaim the goods. What happened next? Law enforcement was called in and the business owner was arrested. The former employee called inspectors to investigate the business before going on an Internet rampage, anonymously slandering the business. Sales tanked. Every time someone Googled the company, more than half of the search returns showed the former employee’s rants. I was called in to help with the crisis management for the business. My first advice to the business owner was to admit the mistake. It was foolish to go to the employee’s home. Second bit of advice: Tell the story of the business in a positive and truthful light. Third lesson: Fight fire with fire. We began an Internet campaign of our own, finding customers of the business who liked the company and would write their own Web reviews of the business. We posted YouTube videos of the company in action. Soon, the Google search returns showed them in a positive light. We gave interviews to the media while also writing an op-ed piece giving our side of the story while convincing the inspectors to tell the press that they found the business exceptionally well-run when they made their surprise visits. And it really helped when the criminal charges were dismissed in a trial covered by the media. We were open and aggressive and used the traditional media as well as the social media available to us. Today, sales are starting to return to pre-crisis levels. Whether you are a large company, such as Medtronic, or a small company, such as my client, the rules are the same. Tell the truth and tell it quickly. Hunker down and take your lumps. As the Bible says, “This, too, shall pass.” It just passes a lot more quickly when you tell the truth.
CSQMag.com | 31
CSUITEQUARTERLY / visionaries
Entrepreneurs
Melissa Kieling and Jeannette Dirksen
It Takes a Village To Start a Business By Mike Severson Photos by Ashley Minkow
32 | CSQMag.com
I
t’s an axiom of the business world that to be a success, simply find a need and fill it. Two entrepreneurs, Jeannette Dirksen and Melissa Kieling did just that with their innovative idea, the PackIt Cooler. But on the pathway to success, they learned other valuable lessons as they traveled toward, pardon the pun, a rather cool future. If there is anything that life teaches us, it’s how bountiful the generosity of others can be and how that generosity and friendship can come from the most unexpected places. Jeannette and Melissa are great examples of that, having spent years as acquaintances, attending one another’s parties as friends-of-friends, until their lives became entwined. They became a support system for one another through tough times, weathering storms that bonded them as friends. Now they are navigating the tricky seas of business having launched PackIt. As Melissa was putting ice cubes in sandwich bags to pack her kids’ lunches (because the ice packs had once again been misplaced), she thought, “There’s got to be a better, more convenient way to do this,” and, sure enough, there was. The basic concept was simple: a cooler with built-in cold packs in a compact package that could be stored in the freezer until it’s ready to use. The problems she wanted to solve were simple: something to pack her kids’ lunch in that would mean no more lost ice packs and a package that would keep food cold long enough that uneaten perishables didn’t need to be discarded. It all added up to less food and packaging waste all in an attractive, reusable, non-toxic package that any kid would be happy to carry -- not to mention a great life-lesson about avoiding waste in a few ways. Melissa then approached her friend Jeannette with the idea knowing that the success of her success in owning her own business in the past. They both liked the concept and were excited at the prospect of starting their own venture. After some poking around to see what was already out there the decision was easy– it was the start of PackIt. Through a friend of Jeannette, Steve Netzley, the ladies were introduced to the owner of IDEO, a global design consultancy, who was intrigued by their concept and introduced them to a local prototyper whose development process took place in her home, at her kitchen table. Almost poetically, the concept that started in a kitchen was taking its next big step toward reality in another one. Another referral later, they had secured a domestic contractor to produce short-runs of both the Personal Cooler (lunchbox size) or Bottle Service (wine cooler) along with an international manufacturer with a great reputation. At the same time, another friend filed the initial patent applications and helped with the legal aspects of the product. Months later, the ladies are securing distribution at retail outlets across the nation and will see their product sold on the Home Shopping Network in late summer, just in time for back to school shopping. Now anyone who knows the landscape for soft
goods knows that HSN can be a make-or-break moment. Naturally, the ladies are looking forward to the day. The map of the PackIt journey, if one were to draw it out on paper, may look something like a spider web, with strands connecting seemingly unrelated people to one another, all offering help without any further expectations. The creators of Vapur, a collapsible water bottle, are local and have been an amazing resource for Melissa and Jeannette as the Vapur development process is about six months ahead of PackIt. The ladies are offering their advice to another start-up that is about six months behind them in their development process, paying it forward as the Vapur founders undoubtedly did. Every step of the way, the ladies of PackIt are reminded of how generous people have been with their time and talents, and they are prepared to match that generosity as best they can by helping others. On being asked what the best single piece of advice they could offer to someone starting their own business, Melissa responded, “Even when things seem overly complicated and overwhelming you can always figure it out. Take things step-by-step. Break it down, compartmentalize, tackle the task, and move on.” It’s difficult for people to accept help, especially when we have been trained to be independent and self-sufficient, let alone ask for it. The women behind PackIt have been open to the help and sharing people have been willing to give. Not only has this willingness been instrumental in the success of their company, it has also been an amazing gift that both of these single mothers have been able to give to their children in the form of life lessons and inspiration. The five kids they have between them are their biggest fans and have learned that they really can do whatever they set their minds to. Perhaps even more importantly, they’ve learned when to ask for help, when to accept help, and how giving and receiving generously will result in success. We are, after all, all in this together.
CSQMag.com | 33
CSUITEQuArterly / destinations
48 Hours
Ojai Rising Ojai blossoms from its humble agricultural town roots into a heavenly microcosm of Southern California sensory bounty. By Elyse Glickman
tHe HIstorIC oJAI vAlley INN
pHoto Courtesy of oJAI vAlley INN
F
or many years, it was safe to say Ojai existed in the shadows cast by its tony beachfront neighbors Santa Barbara and Ventura. Thanks to its sunny location away from the beaches, however, Ojai steadily developed a following of loyal fans thanks to its quaint shops, diners, horseback riding, independent wineries and celebrity hideaways (Johnny Cash owned property in nearby Casitas Springs). It also gained fame back in the 1930s, playing a role as the backdrop for Shangri-La in the classic 1939 movie, The Lost Horizon. With the arrival of the 21st century, and a collective desire for destinations that embody life’s simple pleasures, however, Ojai figured out what it wanted to be when it grew up—itself, only better and more inviting. Ojai was always a haven for artists and the environmentally conscious. Today, this zeitgeist and the local agricultural bounty is now on prominent display thanks to a new generation of cafes, bars, boutiques, spas, inns and hotels. Though many of these attractions have a little bit of uptown sophistication, alongside several Aquarian age shops and classes with their own following, there appears to be a shared understanding that progress should never be at the expense of local tradition or history.
Historic Luxury The Ojai Valley Inn (www.ojairesort.com) is the bedrock of Ojai’s identity as a “destination” weekend escape. However, there is more than what meets the eye with this expansive, 300+ room Mediterranean-tinged property. Thanks to a $90 renovation in 2005, the Inn epitomizes modern resort glamour, with its spa, golf, tennis, fine dining and wedding settings. In 1923, it was brought to life by famed glass manufacturer Edward D. Libbey to serve as his personal private country club and golf course. During the 1940s, meanwhile, it stood proud as a contributor to America’s World War II efforts. In 1942, the building housed Camp Oak, a military training center for a battalion of 1,000 Army troops, and in 1944 was turned the base over to the U.S. Navy for a rest and recuperation facility. In the glory days after the War, The Ojai Valley Inn provided a lovely from Hollywood, for such notables as Clark Gable, Irene Dunne, Lana Turner, Loretta Young, Hoagy Carmichael, Walt Disney, Nancy and Ronald Reagan, Judy Garland and Paul Newman
Blue Iguana Pool
A Different Take on “Lizard” Lounging For some travelers looking to get back to nature, meanwhile, smaller can be better. This is the reason why that lovingly handcrafted dwellings like the Blue Iguana Inn (blueiguanainn. com) and the Emerald Iguana Inn (emeraldiguana.com) can and be lodgings of choice for a visit with a sense of homegrown authenticity. Though the revitalization of properties like the sprawling Ojai Valley Inn prompted Angelinos to rediscover Ojai , the sister properties successfully balance comfort, amenities and Ojai’s embrace of a simpler life. The Blue Iguana, an easy ten minute-drive from central Ojai, is suited either for couples and families with many of the rooms designed for extended stays. The décor is subtly Southwestern, with giant mosaic blue iguanas guarding the property and pool. The Emerald Iguana, designed as a romantic, adults-only retreat, has an “enchanted forest” feel to it, albeit with a slightly tropical twist in its lush landscaping. Interior decor here blends Southwestern and middle-eastern aesthetics without being over the top, keeping true to Ojai’s “simpler is better” philosophy. Both properties also have other wonderful home-y touches like continental breakfast treats and fluffy bagels from local bakeries.
The Entry to the Blue Iguana
CSQMag.com | 35
CSUITEQuArterly / destinations
48 Hours
Food FoR ThoUGhT Though the food scene in Ojai is sophisticated and on-trend, moderately priced cafes and fine dining establishments manage to present their food in a very “home-made” context and stringently keep the ingredients of their dishes locally-sourced, simple and eco-friendly. Ojai Ice Cream, for example, looks and smells like the old-fashioned ice cream and sweet shop you may remember from childhood. However, flavors like Chocolate Raspberry Rum Chip, Banana Fudge and Blueberry give it a modern sensibility. Next door, Casa Barranca Winery’s Craftsman-style tasting room makes wine tasting more social and non-touristy. What was once the town’s former bookstore blends together a sweet wine bar and Casa Barranca wines with gallery space, comfy couches and a prime opportunity to witness locals congregating and appreciating what’s in their back yard. The wines themselves are worthwhile, especially given that the organic, biodynamic grapes used are sourced from several neighboring socially conscious vineyards and are certified Organic. The blends have a very northern Spanish or Northern Italian sensibility to them in terms of the flavor profile. Feast Bistro (www.feastofojai.com) and Vesta (www.vestaojai. com), offer well-priced, farm-fresh “New American”-cuisine that showcases Ojai product and produce most creatively. Feast Bistro, created by Chef Susan Coulter and Beryl Schwartz in 2005, charms guests with such delights as fresh-squeezed, lemonade, ravioli, omelets and sandwiches using lemons, olives and many other things sourced from local farms. Desserts are a highlight, especially the lemon sandwich cookies and olive oil cake, which is said to sell like, well, hotcakes. Though Vesta began its life as a gift shop and tea room, (names) transformed it into a haven for favorite salads and sandwiches updated with a variety of playful twists (i.e. their cucumber-wasabi dressing) and the option of having many dishes done vegetarian without compromising on flavor. Vesta also offers carb-conscious cocktails for those who want both their spiritually enlightenment and foodie moments. What makes fine-dining spot Azu quite compelling is that
Azu CHef lAurel Moore
36 | CSQMag.com
the fare is pan Mediterranean with the strongest emphasis on Moroccan and Israel. Laurel Moore, the restaurant’s executive chef and anchor, reveals that before launching her culinary career, she worked as a photographer in Israel for six months and was inspired by the foods she enjoyed there. The menu is rich in texture in flavor (her couscous with dried fruit is a meal in itself) and ripe with lots of local fruits and vegetables. Foods of Spain, France, Greek and Italy play nice supporting roles. There is a baked brie drizzled with local honey, and a fabulous baked chile relleno smothered in a perky ancho chile pepper sauce with capers and just enough cheese for texture. While Azu is famous for its wine selection, signature cocktails and desserts are special and worth a longer hike or horseback ride the morning after.
hAppY TRAILS To YoU One superb place to do a morning ride, whether you’re experienced or a newbie, is at Western Trail Rides (WesternTrailRides.org). Using the adjoining protected nature preserves and panoramic vistas to her advantage, seasoned equestrian riding teacher Melissa White provides a nice balance of riding technique coaching, local history and folklore and another way to get a glimpse of local life, encountering residents riding, walking their dogs or working out on local trails during the course of her rides. Off the trails, there’s plenty more culture and history to be found, including Libbey Park (where you may catch a drum circle or a hula hoop workout group), the Ojai Valley Museum and Rains Department Store (at 96 years old, one of America’s last surviving independent department stores), loaded with its eclectic mix of house wares, clothing and bric-a-brac.
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 Malibuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Best! - Zagat Restaurant Guide
CSUITEQuArterly / destinations
Golf Getaway
Golfing Bandon Dunes oREGon
By Eric Severson
photo by john dreyer
very true golfer adores the first tee box with the anticipation of a secluded chunk of time dedicated to just playing the game. It becomes golfer versus the golf course and, in the end, both commensurate in all the victories mixed with disappointments to make for a perfect outing.
Ocean view from the first hole, bandon Dunes
The goal is to find that perfect spot, the place that will challenge your game while taking your breath away. Bandon Dunes, located on the southern Oregon coast, will give you the real experience of a true Scottish Link course that combines with natural beauty at every turn. The true links golf courses are something that you rarely find in the United States, with most of these style courses offered in England, Scotland, and Ireland (only about 160 in the entire world). It will be a golf trip to remember with 23 miles of rugged coastlines, majestic fairways, and massive waste bunkers that will make you think you are on another planet, and incredibly fast greens that will test putting skills on every hole. Players immerse themselves in the traditions of a timeless game and the grandeur of Oregon’s rugged coast. Four distinctly different courses have been conceived in harmony with the natural environment. They combine with all the essential elements to reveal a new golf experience every time you play. The four courses include Bandon Dunes (the original), Pacific Dunes, Bandon Trails, and the newest course, Old McDonald. Each course presents a new challenge every time you tee up. Located just outside the quaint coastal town of Bandon, Bandon Dunes golf course has been ranked among the top 100 golf courses in America by Golf Digest. You’re not something extra out there on the course but rather, you actually feel like you’re a piece of the beautiful landscape around you. At the end of the round, good or bad, you will still have to catch your breath. It truly is that beautiful without trying. Perhaps Golf Odyssey summed it up best: “It is here, on this remote stretch of the wildly stunning Oregon coast, where the finest golf courses in the whole world quietly await you.” Indeed, Bandon Dunes is a true golfer’s getaway. Every aspect of the resort is catered toward giving each player the ultimate golfing experience, from the time you lace up your golf shoes to the moment you relax with a beverage in the lodge to ponder every shot. A
pHotos By dIetrICH lAwreNz tHe wIldlIfe At BANdoN duNes
CSUITEQuArterly / destinations
48 Hours
BANdoN trAIls 14tH Hole
32-acre practice center allows you to hone every shot required on all four courses and features a one-acre practice putting green and bunker practice area. Are you ready to improve your game? Check out the golf instruction options that include tips from PGA professionals ready to take strokes off your round and give you the inside track on the shots necessary to take on the challenging tracks. Finally, it’s tee-off time, so take advantage of the extensive caddy program and team up with a knowledgeable assistant, a decision that will prove invaluable as you navigate the unique terrain and famous winds coming off the majestic Pacific Ocean. Armed with all the instruction and a trusty caddy, it’s time to attack the course. Experience first hand, fairways lined with coastal cliffs, meteor blast sand traps, and lightning fast greens. This is a place that will challenge every shot in your bag and influence the creativity in your game. It is truly the way golf was meant to be played. After your last putt drops on the 18th hole, it’s time to head to the rustic lodge and sit down in The Gallery restaurant (one of six dining options) for some excellent Pacific Northwest cuisine complemented by a world class wine list. The professionals at The Gallery make you feel welcome from the moment you walk in. Start out with some Dungeness Crab Cakes, a perfect appetizer for a 12-ounce New York steak accompanied by an award winning Oregon Pinot Noir. Next stop, Mckee’s Pub, to enjoy some Oregon micro-brews and classic single malt scotches while contemplating the hardest hole or bragging about that improbable putt on the 15th. Eventually you will spill onto the large patio and into the refreshing Pacific Ocean air where you can continue debates of the day while enjoying the warmth of a nearby fireplace. Finally, it’s time to turn in, to be ready for another exhilarating 18 holes in the morning. The resort offers many comfortable lodging options to suit your needs, varying from single accommodations in The Lodge and Inn to their spacious four-bedroom Grove Cottages. Bandon Dunes is a true golf destination for anyone searching for the ultimate golf experience. Once you’ve taken in all that Bandon Dunes has to offer, you’ll make reservations to come back soon. This is how golf was meant to be. Bandon Dunes is five minutes from the seaside town of Bandon, just off Highway 101, and just 25 minutes from the Southwest Oregon Regional Airport in North Bend, served daily by flights from Portland and San Francisco.
BAndon dUnES GoLF RESoRT 57744 rouNd lAKe drIve BANdoN, or 97411 CsQ CoNtACt: todd Kloster 888/345.6008 www.BANdoNduNesgolf.CoM
ABoUT BAndon dUnES And pACIFIC dUnES 36 of tHe 72 BANdoN Holes Are loCAted oCeANsIde. pACIfIC duNes wAs rAted tHe NuMBer oNe resort golf Course IN tHe CouNtry IN 2005 By golfweeK MAgAzINe. seCoNd plACe? peBBle BeACH. tHe fIrst Course At BANdoN duNes resorts opeNed oN MAy 19, 1999. old MCdoNAld, tHe ANtICIpAted fourtH Course Is opeN As of JuNe, 2010. use of golf CArts Is Not perMItted At tHe resort, uNless reQuIred for MedICAl reAsoNs.
2010 Brentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s deli golf classic Benefiting The Boys & Girls Clubs Of Conejo & L as Virgenes
June 7, 2010 North Ranch Country Club Westlake Village
For more information please visit
brentsdeli.com
BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF CONEJO & LAS VIRGENES
CSUITEQuArterly / destinations
CitySuite
WHEn in HOllyWOOd... By Elyse Glickman
42 | CSQMag.com
rooftop pool At w Hollywood
One sure sign that a new boutique hotel has made its mark is when a hotshot event planner such as Gavin B. Keilly anoints your lobby and public spaces as the pre-2010 Oscar meeting and grazing spot. however, that achievement pales next to one amazing statistic–the hotel’s rooms sold out in a mere two weeks after its opening and reservations have been hovering at an unprecedented 90% capacity ever since. And it gets better from there…
w hoLLYwood 6250 Hollywood BoulevArd Hollywood, CA 90028 323/798.1300
Lobby
The Red Carpet Treatment The W Hollywood’s lobby opens up grandly into a wide-screen, Panavision kind of affair, right down to red carpet welcoming entrances anywhere a guest happens to step. The visual impact is not subtle—a space awash in red carpets and anchored by a towering spiral staircase. From that first look, we instantly get the notion every nook, cranny, and amenity is designed to make those who stay there feel like a VIP. Speaking of which, a key scene from the current season of HBO’s Entourage was shot in that impressive lobby serendipitously during a conference of Warner Bros.’ executives (HBO’s parent company). W Hotel’s most famous signatures (SWEAT® Fitness Center, Whatever/Whenever® service, WiFi, W Hotels’ The Store, and a list of services that should be registered with the Library of Congress) are in place. However, what lies beyond that reveals this W ups the ante on many levels.
The Wow Factor
bliss spa
In describing how the W Hollywood brings “hands-on” attention to details to dizzying heights, a good place to start is The Bliss Spa. Though its counterpart at the W Brentwood is charming and chic, W Hollywood’s version turns the spa experience on its head. Cheese and sweets sit jauntily alongside water and teas in the waiting areas. Walls and treatment rooms in the “Backstage” area are adorned with playful sayings. Blues and rock replaces the New Age and meditation music. There is no Buddha or dream catcher to be found in the clean, comfy expanse. Adjoining the Living Room and lobby on the ground level is “Station Hollywood,” lining Hollywood Boulevard and the Metro station. By day, it is a chic urban enclave. At night, it becomes a screening room, concert hall, or gallery experience, with a hidden giant movie screen that descends to transform the patio into its own
44 | CSQMag.com
conference room
distinctive space. The business areas are loaded with amenities that allow anybody hosting a business meeting to simultaneously live out their fantasy of being a “director,” from WiFi to Sensory® Set Up amenities that transform the most drab PowerPoint presentation into a deal-making event. The W Hollywood also amps up the concept of concierge for business and vacationing guests with a “W Insider.” W Insider Chris Nelson captures the swagger of the Entourage crew, stating his involves far more than booking dinner and theater reservations. He is the ultimate, in-the-know local who doesn’t only know what’s hot right now, but also what will be hot in six months, and can make you one of the first to experience it. “I make dreams come true,” he says. “It’s my job to go beyond requests and get into the nooks and crannies of guests’ wants and desires, and makes those happen. I don’t only guarantee a great visit—I expand people’s horizons.”
What’s Next… The new-and-improved Drai’s Members-Only lounge keeps the venue’s old ultra-exclusive cache alive, while rooftop Drai’s Hollywood opens that experience to more people with a continental cuisine menu and more than 20,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space encompassing a pool bar and dance floors that seem to stretch to the Hollywood sign. Guests seeking a quieter evening will find French restaurant Delphine most appealing. Instead of the ‘60s inspired mod décor many W fans are used to, Delphine bears a resemblance to the French Riviera as it was captured on film during the 1950s. The Living Room does informal grazing chic to a Mediterranean tune. However, its real showstoppers are the cocktails, with unusual mixes of fruits and artisanal spirits.
The W Experience, internationally... If you find yourself thinking, “Hooray for W Hollywood,” Jim McPartlin, General Manager of W Hollywood, says you’ll also love the unique experiences of W South Beach (which has its own W Insider), W Barcelona, W Santiago (Chile), W London, and W Vieques Retreat and Spa, the brand’s first full-scale, free standing resort on an island off the coast of Puerto Rico. All properties capture the W’s unique packaging of luxury, but reflect the character of the cities and places where they are based. However, if you’re keen on checking out and checking into W Hollywood, he stresses reservations should be made at least two to three weeks in advance of the planned stay or meetings.
CsuIteQUARTERLY / dining
City Dining
XIV
SALon dE CUISInE
By Elyse Glickman
T
ChEF STEVEn FRETZ ARTFULLY TRAnSLATES SUpERSTAR RESTAURATEUR MIChAEL MInA’S VISIon And phILIppE STARCK’S EURo-AESThETIC InTo A STUnnInG GLoBAL VILLAGE oF FLAVoR And AdVEnTURE
he Michael Mina-anchored XIV opened with a splash back in 2008, but the pressure was on. The Crescent Heights/Laurel Canyon/Sunset location was many things in the decade before XIV claimed the address. However, the Philippe Starck design transformed this identity crisis-plagued space into a classic French salon with a 21st century state of mind, while Chef Steven Fretz did the same for the menu. The restaurant by design is intended to be many things to many people, from young professionals coming in for happy hour, to celebrating couples and girl’s night out. and his team have responded to L.A.’s diverse dining populations with vegetarian and vegan menus that neatly mirror his original menu concepts. The happy hour experience, which includes bite-sized versions of such popular selections like Fretz’s Jidori Chicken, effectively invites all-comers to the party to enjoy XIV’s unique attitude any way they please. Though some Mina hallmarks (i.e. the Lobster Pot Pie) are menu staples, the dining experience is Fretz’s show. While service in the front of the house flows effortlessly, Fretz and his collaborative crew put heart and soul into every morsel coming out of the kitchen. For this reason alone, a first visit to XIV should involve investing in one of Fretz’s signature tasting menus. The “Fourteen From XIV” reveals his culinary style boldly challenges
the practice of slapping now tired categories and genres onto restaurants, such as “Fusion.” His intent is to take you on a guided tour through the menu’s highlights and his sleight of hand mixing flavors that one would never have imagined would work together. We knew our first course, XIV BY MIChAEL MInA 8117 suNset BoulevArd Caviar Parfait, a Michael Mina los ANgeles, CA 90046 staple, would be sublime. Courses 323/656.1414 that followed completely floored us, such as Baked Potato Pierogi hoURS oF opERATIon (mixing Chicago-style Polish fare sun-wed, 6pm-11pm with Southern flair), Fried Green thu-sat, 6pm-2am Tomatoes with Burrata cheese (Southern US-meets-Italian) and for vIp services and requests, Wild King Salmon with cavatelli contact Jacob shure, general pasta and an unexpected hit of exManager, at 310/612.3519 or otic spice. With the Nantucket Bay jacobs@sbe.com Scallop Tempura, scallops were not deep fried, but served on a delicate bed of tempura flakes, passion fruit, cauliflower, and almonds. More familiar fare, such as Kobe Burger sliders and Piedmontese Fillet Mignon, were prepared with such care that we wanted to savor them slowly. The same went for the desserts (Toasted Almond Ice Cream with rhubarb, maraschino cherry and vanilla mousse; Mascarpone Mousse Tiramisu with chocolate sorbet) with lively mixes of flavor and texture. With so much going for it, XIV is indeed a magic number.
CSUITEQuArterly / destinations
International
meet me in monaco... By Annabelle Frankl
CAsINos lIt up for AN eveNINg IN MoNACo
46 | CSQMag.com
n
ice things come in small packages, and this is certainly true for the tiny Principality of Monaco, perched on a mere 485 acres of Mediterranean coastline and bordered on three sides by France. It is the second smallest country in the world; only Vatican City is smaller and a very different kind of place to visit. The country is a constitutional Monarchy and has been ruled by the same family – the Grimaldis – since 1297, when Francois Grimaldi, disguised as a Franciscan monk and hiding a sword under his frock, led a small army and stormed the fortress protecting the Rock of Monaco. Once double the size it is today, in a bid for both independence and a large amount of cash, Monaco relinquished half of its land to France in 1861. Alas, this land contained most of Monaco’s natural resources – evidently somone didn’t examine the geological reports too closely – and the then ruler, Prince Charles III, realized something must be done to ensure the country’s economic survival. So, in 1863, he established the Société des Bains de Mer (now Monte-Carlo SBM – see sidebar) in a bid to make the Principality a tourism and gambling destination and, in 1866, created MonteCarlo, which plays home to all of SBM’s properties and is the foundation upon which the Monaco we know today has grown.
CSQMag.com | 47
CSUITEQuArterly / destinations
International
The draw of its gambling aside, present-day Monaco and its continued appeal for both everyday tourists and the world’s elite, has been irrevocably shaped and influenced by two events that shone a global spotlight on the Principality: the melding of Hollywood royalty and actual Royalty in 1956 and the world of Grand Prix racing arriving on its narrow and winding streets in 1929. Even living under a rock, it would have proven hard to escape the worldwide frenzy that accompanied the whirlwind marriage of America’s sweetheart, Grace Kelly, to Prince Rainier III. Over 30 million people saw the film star wed her prince in Monaco’s St. Nicholas Cathedral in front of a who’s who of royalty, dignitaries, Hollywood stars, and more. In a country that produces stars who shine brighter than seemingly anywhere else, there is no greater star than a royal one, and America had its very own real-life princess, one whose every move, outfit, and hairstyle was followed and written about endlessly, ensuring a constant stream of Monegasque news on American soil. However, even before this, the glamorous and dangerous world of motor racing was largely responsible for placing the spotlight on Monaco and highlighting all the delights it had – and still has – to offer. 2010 will witness the 68th Grand Prix and, while it is not the fastest race of the season, it is certainly the most prestigious and one that every driver wants to win. Uniquely, it has been held on the same course every time, integrating Monte-Carlo’s
famed Casino Square and recently-expanded harbor into what is one of the hardest race circuits on the annual calendar presenting spectators with unparalleled ways to view all the action. Whether choosing a restaurant terrace, hotel suite, apartment balcony or, if you want to do things properly, a luxury yacht moored trackside in the harbor, the atmosphere, the noise, and even the smell is unlike anything, or anywhere, else. And, unlike at any other time, Monaco is a very special and very expensive place: a drink at Jimmy’z nightclub over the Grand Prix weekend will set you back 80 Euros. For a soda. Thankfully for Monegasque residents, personal income tax is zero (unless they’re unlucky enough to be French). Although most residents do not actually live there full time – so many other glamorous places to visit, darling - a minimum of 6 months per annum is required for residency. Monaco has been called the “Las Vegas of Europe,” but both Monte-Carlo and Sin City have had to re-invent themselves in recent years. Monte-Carlo SBM now has the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel, a property that caters to the “hip and cool” crowd who deems their Hotel de Paris or Hermitage too stuffy and old school. The hotel has been a resounding success, proving once again that the cache of Monaco, with its annual “must attend” events and the enduring allure of a royal fairytale, keeps it a truly unique place.
ThE wInnInG FoRMULA
MonTECARLo SBM
ANd fINANCIAl suCCess of
Now CoNtrols two pAlACes,
tHe MoNACo grANd prIx HAs
fIve deluxe Hotels, fIve
CreAted A New erA of rACe
CAsINos, 33 BArs ANd
CIrCuIts. ABu dHABI – duBBed
restAurANts, tHree spAs, tHe
tHe “MoNACo of tHe MIddle
operA House, tHe sAlle des
EAST” - SPENT $50B BUILDING
etoIles CoNCert HAll, JIMMy’z
Its yAs MArINA CIrCuIt,
NIgHt CluB, tHe MoNte-CArlo
CoMplete wItH A CustoM-
golf CluB, ANd tHe MoNte-
BuIlt MArINA, tHAt deButed
CArlo CouNtry CluB. Its
to exCelleNt revIews IN
turNover for 2008 wAs 457.6
NoveMBer 2009. soutH KoreA’s
MIllIoN euros ANd 400 MIllIoN
JeoNNAM CIrCuIt, CoMplete
euros for 2009. MoNte-CArlo
wItH trACKsIde MArINA, wIll
sBM Is lIsted oN tHe pArIs
HAve Its fIrst grANd prIx IN
euroNext exCHANge wItH tHe
oCtoBer 2010 BArrINg ANy
MoNACo goverNMeNt HoldINg
CoNstruCtIoN delAys.
69.5% of tHe sHAre CApItAl.
MonACo KEEpS ITS TRAdE And ToURISM BUSInESS ALIVE And ThRIVInG wITh A BUSY AnnUAL CALEndAR oF EVEnTS MARCh Monte-Carlo rose Ball benefitting the Princess grace foundation ApRIL 10-13 Monte-Carlo rolex Masters, part of the Atp world Masters 1000 MAY 1-2 7th Historic grand prix of Monaco (every 2 years) MAY 13-16 68th formula 1 grand prix of Monaco jUnE 6-10 50th Monte-Carlo tv festival jULY 22 Herculis 2010 – IAAf International diamond league event jULY/AUGUST Monte-Carlo International fireworks festival AUGUST Monte-Carlo red Cross gala Ball SEpTEMBER 22-25 20th Monaco yacht show noVEMBER International Marathon traversing Monaco, france, & Italy
MoNACo HArBor
CSUITEQUARTERLY / visionaries
On the Cover
Jeffrey Immelt CHAIRMAN AND CEO, GENERAL ELECTRIC By David Wurth
F
or more than 130 years, General Electric has welcomed some of the world’s toughest challenges, from the first light bulb to the first flight, to landing man on the moon. Not a spectator, but rather a participant in more than a century of history, the continuous thread that binds their leadership is the desire to meet and improve some of the world’s toughest challenges. Today, led by Chairman and CEO Jeffrey R. Immelt, GE has been recognized by Fortune Magazine as “America’s Most Admired Company” in polls conducted by Barron’s and The Financial Times. Taking his role as an American leader seriously, Immelt recently took an aggressive stance, announcing the donation on behalf of GE, of $10 million toward a two-year program celebrating President Reagan’s 100th birthday appropriately called the Ronald Reagan Centennial Celebration. Additionally, another $5 million will go to a GE-backed, four-year scholarship program designed to assist leadership programs run by the Foundation for students. In a recent interview with CSQ Magazine, Mr. Immelt spoke about GE’s relationship with President Reagan, as well as some of his views about leadership of one of the world’s most important companies.
50 | CSQMag.com
Getting personal... Favorite travel destination?
Connecticut. It means I’m home. How do you stay fit?
StairMaster. It keeps me in my old, football-playing condition, for when I have to negotiate a lighting deal with Jerry Jones. #1 management tip?
Don’t be afraid to fail. But fail boldly, quickly, and learn from it. If you don’t, your next time may be your last. How many days of business travel in 2009?
Let’s just say my passport has more pages than the Delhi phonebook and more stamps than the U.S. Postal Service.
Photo by steven vote
CSQMag.com | 51
CSUITEQUARTERLY / visionaries
On the Cover On the partnership with the Reagan Foundation
The Original Dow 12 On May 26, 1896, Charles Dow founded the Dow Jones Industrial Index which reflected the Dow average of 12 stocks from leading American industries.Out of the 12 stocks that made up the Index, the only company still a member is General Electric.
Then and Now 1. American Cotton Oil Company Unilever 2. American Sugar Company Domino Foods, Inc. 3. American Tobacco Company broken up in a 1911 antitrust action 4. Chicago Gas Company Integrys Energy Group 5. Distilling & Cattle Feeding Company Millennium Chemicals 6. Laclede Gas Company Laclede Group, Inc. 7. National Lead Company NL Industries 8. North American Company an electric utility holding company, broken up by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in 1946 9. Tennessee Coal Iron and Railroad Company, bought by U.S. Steel in 1907 10. U.S. Leather Company dissolved in 1952 11. United States Rubber Company bought by Michelin in 1990
52 | CSQMag.com
Why did you decide to partner with the Ronald Reagan Centennial Celebration? President Reagan said that the second most important 8-year job he ever had were the years that he was GE’s spokesman. During his time as spokesman, he visited all our factories and met our employees. At the end of every meeting he would say our company slogan, at the time, “Progress is our most important product.” That remains true today. So we were a natural fit to partner with the Foundation, given our affinity with President Reagan over the last 50 years. How does the Reagan Foundation as a cause or philanthropy rank among some of your other partnerships – such as the Olympics? The Reagan Foundation sponsorship is a unique opportunity to align our brand with a person. This is different from our broader sponsorships such as the Olympics. It allows us to highlight the human stories of the lives President Reagan touched as GE’s spokesman and therefore allows us to highlight the values of optimism and progress. I’ve noticed your sponsorship of the Reagan Centennial will last more than a year, through the end of 2011. What are some of the events or initiatives you have planned to highlight the history of GE’s relationship with President Reagan during that time? We are very excited about our upcoming plans to host meetings in cities around the country with Reagan administration alumni and Reagan historians to discuss how progress and optimism can lead to universal change as well as what we can learn about leadership and communications from President Reagan’s days in office and days at GE.
“Always listen. Always try to learn. Always try to improve. Stay humble. Make those around you better.”
GE turned their lights on in 1878. Some facts and figures Ticker Symbol GE (NYSE) Headquarters Fairfield, CT Founded in 1878 Founded by Thomas Edison, Elihu Thomson, and Edwin J. Houston 2009 Revenues $156.78b Photo by Cliff David, Freeze Frame
2009 Market Cap $160.49b 2009 Ranking on the Fortune 500 6
First Lady Nancy Reagan and Jeff Immelt, Chairman and CEO of GE Looking through a photo album of GE Theater stills donated by GE.
2009 Charitable Contributions The entire GE family — including businesses, employees, retirees, and GE Foundation — contributed more than an estimated $220 million to community and educational programs, including more than $100 million from the GE Foundation.
On GE What was the best decision you’ve made at GE? Why? I had been CEO of GE for three days when the September 11th attacks took place. I was responsible for 300,000 employees, their families, our retirees and our shareowners. Standing still – while the easiest thing to do – just was not an option, for our company or our country. On September 12th, we dug down and fought through the anguish, kept the assembly lines running when many had gone silent, invested and innovated when every instinct was to stop. I like to think that, in some small way, these tough decisions helped some people through one of the toughest times our country has ever known. I do know that they made our company what it is today: better, stronger, tougher – and prouder than ever to be headquartered in the United States.
There is always talk of having a work/life balance, and running a $200 billion dollar company can be demanding at times, to say the least. How do you find time to spend life with your friends and family? Simple: I don’t have any hobbies. I am either running GE or with my family -- and they run me.
What would you say is the biggest challenge that you face today and how will you overcome it? We are emerging right now from one of the toughest challenges seen in 100 years. But over the last three decades, GE has earned $265 billion in profit and generated about $300 billion of cash. We are very confident in our future.
What is next for Jeffrey Immelt? Continuing to grow GE – for our customers, our employees, our shareowners and our country. Then off to a movie with my wife and daughter. Probably a comedy from NBC Universal – we could all use a laugh about now, right?
You are one of the most revered CEOs in the world. What is the best advice you’ve ever received to help you through tough times? Always listen. Always try to learn. Always try to improve. Stay humble. Make those around you better. Appreciate your responsibility to perform with integrity and to make things better. Just a few lessons I learned from Ronald Reagan.
CSQMag.com | 53
CSUITEQUARTERLY / visionaries
Cover Special
Nancy Reagan hosts a dinner at the Reagan Library in honor of Jeff Immelt to thank GE for a $15 Million charitable gift
A Toast to America’s Mayor
Photo by Cliff David, Freeze Frame
By Claude Ruibal Chairman, Universal Sports Mayor Rudy Giuliani is truly “America’s Mayor.” After spending an evening seated beside him at a dinner at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in February, I can attest this appellation is true.
Trustee of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation Brad Freeman, Chairman and CEO of GE Jeff Immelt, Reagan Trustee T. Boone Pickens, Madeleine Pickens In the Private Quarters at the Reagan Library.
We were both guests of Mrs. Reagan. The former First Lady was as lovely as ever as she honored Jeff Immelt for his gift to the Reagan Foundation on GE’s behalf. Of course she was. We were in her home. The impressively decorated “private quarters” of the Reagan Library, normally closed to the public, were matched only by the caliber of guests in the room, T. Boone Pickens, George Schultz, John Herrington, Ted Olson, and Ted Craver to name just a few.
Photo by Cliff David, Freeze Frame
Near the end of the evening, as toasts were being exchanged, Mayor Giuliani rose and surprised us all. He was spellbinding as he told the story of how, on September 12, 2001, Jeff Immelt offered GE’s help. Jeff had been CEO of GE for only four days. Immediately Jeff offered a pledge of support that included generators to light ongoing ground zero rescue attempts and a generous donation to the families of fallen New York City police and fire departments. At the end, Mayor Giuliani leaned over to me and whispered, “I never really got a chance to thank him for that.” It was quite a thank you and tribute. From right to left: First Lady Nancy Reagan, Secretary George Shultz (former Secretary of State), Jeff Immelt (Chairman and CEO, GE), and Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. Visiting in Mrs. Reagan’s Private Quarters at the Reagan Library.
54 | CSQMag.com
Like a true leader, Mayor Giuliani not only raised his glass but lifted our spirits.
SAFETY. SERVICE. STABILITY. VALUE. THIS IS THE MARQUIS JET CARD Not all private jet card programs are created equal. Only Marquis Jet Card Owners SM
have 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 14 CFR 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.
CSQMag.com | 55
ADV ISOR Y
Giving Without Expections CSQ ADVISOR Daryl Wizelman
Author, Speaker, HeartLeader LLC
G 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
56 | CSQMag.com
iving without the expectation of getting anything in return can lead to amazing personal and professional fulfillment and rich rewards. If we are willing to give away what we have both from an intellectual perspective and an emotional perspective, we are often rewarded in so many ways. Let me begin by talking about the business side. If I am abundant and willing to share what I know (ideas, processes, procedures, techniques, contacts, etc.) even with my closest competitor, I win. I win in knowing I have assisted others. I win in knowing that I am helping my industry grow and prosper. I win because I can then encourage the business owners I have shared with to share with others. One of my favorite quotes to illustrate the definition of abundance is from Antoine de Saint-Exupery: “For true love is inexhaustible; the more you give, the more you have. And if you go to draw at the true fountainhead, the more water you draw, the more abundant is its flow.” On the personal side, we have all learned many lessons through the missteps we have made in our life’s journey. We now have the opportunity to share and teach our family, friends, and co-workers our painful lessons through transparency, honesty, and vulnerability in an attempt to mitigate their pain from future missteps. It may not work in one hundred percent of the cases, as some people still need to touch the flame to understand the pain. But it is well worth the effort.
I encourage everyone to be abundant and give away what they know so that others’ lives are improved. I have heard it said that we often take for granted the people we love the most. Here is an opportunity to reverse that trend. Give them love, loyalty, respect, and honesty, and listen to them with an open heart and mind. In the end they are the ones who will be left standing when the others have fallen away. Be gracious to those who are closest to you. An example of giving without expectation is in the beloved 1971 film Charlie and the Chocolate Factory when, at the end of the film, Charlie Bucket returns the sacred Everlasting Gobstopper to Willy Wonka against the recommendation of his Grandpa Joe. Charlie expects nothing in return and yet when Wonka gives him the keys to the chocolate factory, he received everything he had ever dreamed of and more. The film offers an abundance of valuable life lessons. It speaks to greed, selfishness, ego, and a parent’s influence, positive and negative, on their children. If you haven’t seen the film, seen it in several years, or shown it to children that you influence, this is an opportunity to learn and teach some very valuable life lessons.
ADV ISOR Y
The concept of “freemium” is another great example of this idea. Put simply, a “freemium” is giving a portion of the product and/or service we offer for FREE, with no expectation of reward. Here are the questions we must ask ourselves: How can we best serve our family, co-workers, friends, and clients? What can we give to them that can potentially improve their lives? Is it advice? Is it the gift of listening? Is it a handwritten card? Is it a check-in call? Is it our product or service for free? If we all give without the expectation of getting anything in return, we further a movement of making the world a happier, more productive place. I encourage everyone to be abundant and give away what they know so that others’ lives are improved. Take it a step further and encourage those you have been abundant with to share what they have learned with others. Pay it forward one person at a time until the movement is a way of life and not the exception to the rule. I believe the benefit we derive from our giving will far exceed our expectations both emotionally and financially. Give with no expectations.
Daryl’s new work “Heart Leader” is a compelling playbook for goal fulfillment. written with both candor and wit, the book presents vital challenges and positive growth solutions to all leaders, teachers and parents. to buy please visit www.heartleader.com/book
VALUE
SECURITY
RISK CONTROL
PERFORMANCE
Our strategic core portfolios are free.
Client accounts are held at Schwab or Goldman Sachs.
We target growth with principal protection.
We delivered gains in the downturn.
Protecting and growing your investment assets for retirement, college and life. Contact us today:
David S. Kreinces, Founder & Portfolio Manager www.etfpm.com /
info@etfpm.com
/
805.480.9785
Paraíso Center, Dos Vientos Ranch | 350 Via Las Brisas, Suite 270 | Newbury Park, CA 91320
ADV ISOR Y
Corporate Patent Strategies CSQ ADVISOR Steven C. Sereboff Partner, SoCal IP Group, LLP
G
rounded in the Constitution and guided by economics, technology, and public policy, patent law has evolved as our society developed from agrarian to industrial to post-industrial. About 220 years ago, Secretary of State Thomas Jefferson personally examined each patent application and sorted them in shoe boxes. Today, the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office employs over 6,000 people and manages the largest collection of organized technical information in the world. Intuitively, patents make sense for most high technology companies, but they also make sense for many low-tech and no-tech companies. The key to patent success lies in using the same business acumen applied to any other business investment. Whether expanding a product line, entering a new market, or filing for patents, a rational business considers up-front costs, life time costs, risk exposure, risk avoidance, return on investment, and opportunity cost. Understand what patents can do for your business and you can create a patent strategy and a sensible budget.
Freedom to Operate
Steven C. Sereboff is a partner of SoCal IP Law Group LLP. He has specialized in intellectual property law since 1991. Strategic IP counseling – where business, technology and IP law intersect – has become the hallmark of his practice. Steve founded SoCal IP in 2002 and today his client list is a who’s who of technology companies in LA Uptown. His practice includes patents (including patent prosecution), trademarks, trade secrets, copyrights, licensing, and contracts. He regularly works with clients to develop and implement corporate IP programs which emphasize quality, economy, and risk management. Mr. Sereboff’s clients include multi-billion-dollar multinationals, medium-sized public and private companies, and growth-oriented start-ups. Mr. Sereboff holds a B.S. degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Maryland and worked for seven years in computer software before earning his law degree from Boston University.
58 | CSQMag.com
For most businesses, the foundation of a patent strategy should be “freedom to operate.” Freedom to operate is what most businesspeople intuitively expect from an open market. However, others’ intellectual property rights can severely restrict your freedom to operate. Today’s typical patent lawsuit costs $1.5M, so prevention is surely better than the cure. By patenting your products and services, you reduce the risk that someone else will patent them. By building a patent portfolio, you create defenses that discourage competitors from suing you and encourage cross-licensing that avoids litigation. As markets mature, your strong patent portfolio can also deter late entrants from freely riding off of your investment. Beyond freedom to operate, the typical business will want patents to address downside business risks. If a market shift leaves you behind, if a major competitor grabs your market share, or if your own business fails, your patents can give you a chance to catch up in the market, take back market share, or recoup investments.
Deciding What to Patent Among the top ten criteria used in deciding what to patent, my top three are criticality, externality, and patentability. Criticality refers to the importance of an invention to your business. The more important the invention, the more important it is to have a patent on that invention. Externality refers to whether the invention is external or internal. External inventions can be seen, recognized, or known by others using your product, reading your Web site, or seeing your marketing materials. Internal inventions, on the other hand, are known only to company insiders. Because your competitors can copy your external inventions but not your internal inventions, it is best to patent the external inventions. Patentability refers to whether you can get a patent at all. A decision of what to patent requires balancing criticality, externality, patentability and the other seven criteria. Rather than considering each invention in isolation, I like to make lists of inventions. Each invention gets graded A, B, C, D, or F (I rarely see Ds and Fs!). Then, based upon the budget, we can decide which inventions merit the investment of a patent, and when to make that investment. This grading and ranking process should take place on a regular basis. Depending on your company’s size and R&D activity, it could be as often as monthly or as seldom as
ADV ISOR Y
once per year. To make the process work better, a lot of companies incentivize employees to document their inventions. Eventually, patenting becomes institutional, akin to workplace safety and the annual company picnic.
pATEnT oR pATEnT pEndInG? On average, it takes about 3½ years to go from patent application to granted patent. Thus, patent counsel needs to understand your product and the market’s direction. If done well, your patents will retain value for their 20-year life. Start-ups commonly file inexpensive “provisional” patent applications during initial market tests while arranging distribution and sales channels, and while seeking investors. Then, if it looks as though the product will sell or investors are found, they decide whether to pursue a regular patent. Provisionals give no protection unless they are followed by a regular patent application, but provisionals provide “patent pending” status, can establish a date of invention, and set deadlines for filing a formal application. Another option is design patents. With their low cost and quick grant time, design patents are a great way to protect a product’s appearance and ornamentation.
ThE FLowERS oF ToMoRRow GRow FRoM ThE SEEdS oF TodAY Building a patent portfolio takes time and dedication – something that applies to almost any business venture. Public policy favors early filing of patent applications, and the patent laws have numerous gotchas on deadlines. If you file the application too late, you might lose U.S. and/or foreign rights. Provisional filings raise special concerns. Most foreign countries have “absolute novelty” rules, which bar patenting if there has been any kind of disclosure of the invention anywhere prior to your filing. The U.S. has a one-year grace period on the absolute novelty rule. That is, in this country, you can file your patent application any time within one year of public sale, use, or disclosure. The rules are quite complex, so do not rely on this simplification. The safest approach is usually to file formal patent applications prior to any kind of public disclosure or attempt at commercialization. Though a garden of patent “flowers” is beautiful, your business can benefit from having even one patent. For most companies that are new to patents, I recommend starting modestly. As your comfort and experience grow, so, too, can the garden.
Estate Planning, Trusts and Probate
It’s about...everyone you love and everything you own. SM
Jeffrey M. Zabner, a Law Corporation Certified Specialist, Estate Planning, Trust and Probate Law State Bar of California, Board of Legal Specialization
4165 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd, Suite 301 Westlake Village, CA 91362 (805) 374-2777 www.zabnerlaw.com jzabner@zabnerlaw.com
ADV ISOR Y
Success Breeds Mediocrity CSQ ADVISOR scott harris President, Mustang Marketing
Scott Harris is founder and president of Mustang Marketing, a full-service marketing, advertising, and communications firm that has served Southern California and beyond for 25 years. Mustang specializes in combining strategic expertise with strong creative talent for a variety of clients, from national giants, such as J.D. Power and Associates, to community organizations. Scott’s investment in the community extends beyond his company’s work. He is founder and executive director of Golden Again, a non-profit organization with a mission to “Bring Accountability to Sacramento,” and serves on numerous boards of directors for local and statewide organizations. A sought-after voice in the community, Scott speaks at various college campuses and business seminars, and writes regular columns for local newspapers. You can reach Scott at Scott@MustangMktg.com or visit Mustang’s Web site at www.mustangmktg.com.
60 | CSQMag.com
A
t first, the following may sound counter-intuitive. However, it is my belief that one of the lessons of our recent economic challenges is that success breeds mediocrity. It is far too easy for companies that are doing well (sales hides many ills) to overlook weak employees, bloated budgets, poor planning, and structural weaknesses. Strategic planning, capital reserves, crisis planning, and tough decisions are delayed, ignored, or even deemed unnecessary in the face of solid sales and profits. Unfortunately, this lack of planning leaves companies ill-prepared for any reversal of fortunes, so many have gone under or are about to. We are coming out of our recent economic tailspin, but there has been a paradigm shift in the way many companies do business and make decisions. Rather than go back to the “old ways” of doing business – restaffing, automatically reinstating budgets, and retreading old ideas and ways – many firms are taking a whole new approach to the way they do business, the way they spend and invest dollars, and who they do business with. As a result, there has been a stratified recovery. While some firms are doing very well and others are failing, there appear to be very few in the middle. The difficult challenges that all businesses are facing have tempered and strengthened the good firms, allowing them to grow and prosper. At the same time, those same challenges are killing off the weak firms. Sadly, many companies were completely unprepared for the economic downturn and many still are equally unprepared for the turnaround. Companies (large and small) and individuals are watching every dollar they spend or invest and expect a return on that investment. Very few of us have the luxury of accepting, “Well, it’s good enough,” or, “That’s the way we’ve always done it.” Show me directly and exactly how my company benefits by hiring a new employee, increasing a budget, or engaging the services of a provider of goods or services. “Nice to have” ain’t going to cut it in the new economy. I recently met with an executive of a worldwide consumer company who said that, while it may seem counter-intuitive, brands (relative to private label) are more important than ever because consumers want quality for their dollars. As a result, they are investing in brand identity and expect to reap both a short- and long-term benefit. A financial services provider is making a 7-figure investment in advertising, their first true advertising campaign, because from the president on down, they feel they have an opportunity to capitalize on the paralysis exhibited by so many of their competitors. Within your own company, take a look at two areas. Are you maximizing every dollar you are spending and investing? Are you doing the same thing you’ve done for years, with the same people, or are you exploring new options and new opportunities? It may very well be that the current option is also the best. But don’t assume that it is. At the same time, are you offering maximum return to your customer and clients? Expectations are on the rise. More is expected from us than ever before, as owners, employers, and businesses. Are you prepared to deliver at a heightened level? Are you looking at new and different ways to manufacture, market, and manage your business? How much help were your key managers, outside counsel, accountants, and auditors? Did they offer valuable advice and counsel over the past
ADV ISOR Y
two years, or simply complain about the banks and government? Do you have a strong plan in place to increase profits, margins, and market share over the next two years, or are you too busy complaining about how bad things are? We are most definitely recovering and the economic tide is rising, but this one is not floating all boats. Those with holes are sinking. Now is the time to ensure that you have no holes. Look at every department and department head, review all vendor relationships, and consider your board, your executives, and yourself. Most importantly, look at your company from the point of view of your customers, clients, and prospects. Are you likely to be viewed as a problem solver, a good investment likely to give a healthy ROI, or a tired firm, mired in the past? Quite simply, be the company you would like to do business with. Recognize that there has been – and will continue to be – a significant shift in the way business is done, and to be successful you will need to anticipate and adjust. If not, you should invest some time in preparing a résumé and a good story for why you’re out of business or a job, because odds are you soon will be.
Top Patent Firm in the Region*
by *Between Encino and San Luis Obispo, as ranked
“Sadly, many companies were completely unprepared for the economic downturn and many still are equally unprepared for the turnaround.”
Ant-like Persistence
World Class IP
IP Today 2009.
310 N. Westlake Blvd., Suite 120 | Westlake Village, CA 91362-3788 | Tel: +1 (805) 230-1350 | www.socalip.com
ADV ISOR Y
CSQ ADVISOR John horton, md
John Horton, MD, is a physician and stress specialist with a unique way of practicing medicine. He has lived and taught in Southern Africa, Japan, Malaysia, Australia, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Spain, and New Zealand. Along with Tim Gallwey, for fifteen years Drs. Horton and Hanzelik have been helping patients loosen stress’ grip on their lives with workshops similar to those Gallwey offers his corporate clients. Dr. Horton has been practicing medicine for 36 years, 17 of them in Westlake Village. He studied at Dartmouth, Columbia, and Duke School of Medicine. He lives in Westlake Village and is co-founder of World Travelers Healthcare in Westlake. He enjoys travel, golf, movies, hiking, cooking, eating, and practicing medicine.
62 | CSQMag.com
I
Work / Life Balance Is Not Enough
’ve been practicing medicine for a long time. I used to start conversations about stress by building the case that stress is the culprit in many health problems. Nowadays people get it--stress opens the door to sickness. Still, while patients realize stress is a physical burden, most don’t think they have a choice in the matter. They believe external circumstances determine stress levels--that stress is inevitable in their situations. This is why we wrote The Inner Game of Stress: Outsmart Life’s Challenges and Fulfill Your Potential. International business travelers and corporate managers are among the patients my medical partner and co-author Edd Hanzelik and I see daily. Much is said about work-life balance today. Patients are aware that spending time enjoying activities with family or friends is good for their health. I’d like to take that a step further: participating in enjoyable activities is critical to our health. However, the notion that we should spend our day in a grueling job balanced by time off doing things we enjoy isn’t working. We can’t make these sort of compromises without consequences. Here’s an analogy: what if we decided to work through the week without drinking any liquids, and drink them all on the weekend? Work stress is described in medical literature as epidemic: 25 percent of employees name their job as their primary stressor; over 40 percent describe their careers as extremely stressful; the number of hours worked increased eight percent in one generation with twenty percent of the workforce working 49 hours a week. If not epidemic, it’s certainly becoming very expensive. While it’s difficult to tell how much employee stress costs organizations yearly (an estimated 300 billion) the business sector is taking it seriously: health benefits cost an organization almost half of its after-tax profits, stress accounts for 60 to 90 percent of employee medical problems, causes conflict, errors in judgment, accidents, litigation, absenteeism and violence. A poll found 14 percent of respondents felt like striking a coworker in the past year, twenty-nine percent yelled at co-workers, and twelve percent called in sick due to job stress. Companies looking for ways to manage this are turning to a variety of solutions including corporate workshops like our Inner Game Seminars. We need balance in our professional lives. Moreover, we need to create an atmosphere where employees enjoy what they do. Two of my long-time patients, both named Mike, understand this. One is the retired CEO of a major division of a Fortune 100 Company. His story is in our book. When he first encountered our STOP Tool in a workshop he called it “procrastination”. After trying it, he became one of it’s biggest fans. Most people tend to think the only thing that counts in their professional lives is performance. Our culture judges success by performance related results. Mike and other forward looking business people see a bigger picture. In the book and the workshops, we use a tool called the PLE Triangle, consisting of three equally important sides: Performance, the actual “doing” of a task; Learning, which is present in every activity; and Enjoyment, the quality of the experience while doing the task. Every activity has these aspects. If they are in balance, they support each other. Tim Gallwey, our co-author, is a father of the executive coaching movement. The idea for the PLE Triangle grew from his answer to a question posed by a CEO in one of his Inner Game corporate workshops. “Three things actually happen simultaneously when the Inner Game is played well. Our performance is excellent, learning is occurring naturally, and we are enjoying ourselves.”
ADV ISOR Y
Leaving out the enjoyment factor evokes a stress response. It takes some understanding to see the relationship between performing, learning, and enjoying in our lives. This is our individual responsibility, but corporate managers can learn this and encourage others to do so. I mentioned another patient named Mike; an engineer who helped build a local start-up into an international brand appearing on practically every movie released. Organizational changes caused the sale of his division and cutbacks, resulting in a severe cut to his income, while he has three kids in college. It’s stressful. However, for the first time in years he’s enjoying his job. It’s been good for his health and for the company’s bottom line because he’s energetically and happily helping bring a new product to market. He explains: “I’m working on a product I feel proud of! My input is needed and valued, and they listen to me.” Regarding his previous experience he adds, “Paying people who don’t give a damn about what you make to come in every day and make it halfheartedly is really expensive.” It’s also not sustainable.
In this economic climate, there’s a lot of talk about why businesses fail or succeed. If organizations make a few simple changes, they can not only minimize their exposure to loss due to stress, but sustain the health and livelihoods of employees -- which ultimately results in better performance, and a better bottom-line.
We need balance in our professional lives. Moreover, we need to create an atmosphere where employees enjoy what they do.
INDIVIDUALS-CHILDREN-COUPLES-FAMILIES-BUSINESSES
Counseling Resource Center Celebrating 15 Years Serving Our Community REDUCING STRESS CAN CREATE INCREASED PRODUCTIVITY AND HAPPIER LIVES
Carol A. Polevoi, MA, MFT, CBT Clinical Director MFT Lic#:32105
818-889-3905 FREE phone consultaion www.counselingresourcecenter.com
WORKSHOPS Stress and Anger Management Rediscovering the Love We Had Post Divorce “Team Parenting” Effective Parenting Finding Love “Inside and OUt”
PSYCHOTHERAPY Traditional Talk & Body/Somatic QUANTUM BIOFEEDBACK Pain and Stress Management
ADV ISOR Y
365 Days A Year Landlords LEASE OFFICE SPACE. HOW OFTEN DO YOU?
CSQ ADVISOR Sheryl L. Mazirow President, Mazirow Commercial, Inc.
Sheryl L. Mazirow, CCIM, is president and founder of Mazirow Commercial, Inc. and has specialized in tenant representation services for the past 30 years. Ms. Mazirow has been recognized as a “Women of Influence” in commercial real estate in Southern California by Real Estate Southern California Magazine as well as awarded the San Fernando Valley Business Journal Executive of the Year. Ms. Mazirow also holds the coveted Certified Commercial Investment Member designation from the CCIM Institute, which less than 1% of the world’s commercial real estate professionals achieve. Mazirow Commercial becomes part of an organization’s long term executive team to minimize occupancy cost and insure tenants have every advantage in the market place when securing leases, whether renewing a lease at an existing location or relocating to a new site. Ms. Mazirow may be reached at 818/757.1164 or go to www.tenantadvisory.com
64 | CSQMag.com
E
very day of the year, landlords lease office space. How often do you? Most likely, once every five years. The landlord’s goal, understandably, is to obtain the highest possible pricing from a tenant. It is essential that tenants create a competitive environment and sit at an even negotiating table with their landlord. What you don’t know can, and will, cost you. What don’t you know? Many hidden items in a lease that cost tenants money over a lease term, such as the pass‐through of operating expenses – the cost for operating the building. Typically a “base year” determines the landlord’s charges for operating expenses in year one of a lease which the landlord absorbs. This “base year” of costs is then used as a comparison of operating costs in subsequent years during the lease term. It is essential (although not standard) in leases, that the base year be “grossed‐ up” to reflect a building that is at least 95% occupied. This issue is highlighted in today’s market given the significant vacancy rate. Items such as the utilities, water, supplies, and janitorial will cost the landlord less money in a building with a 20% vacaancy than a building with a 5% vacancy. If in a base year there was no “gross‐up” for the costs of running the building, a tenant would see significant increases each month in comparison years on operating expenses when the building was 95% or 100% leased. Equally important, what is the landlord including in these costs? Are these costs solely for the operations of this specific building? How is the floor space measured? Is the computing of the floor area using the standard method pursuant to The Building Owners and Managers Association guidelines? Can the amount of square footage change during the lease term? Yes, often leases do provide landlords with the right to increase the amount of square footage thereby increasing the rent due if not addressed in lease negotiations. Have an option to renew the lease at market? What’s market? There is a vast difference from the landlords’ and tenants’ point of view on this issue. In the body of the lease is “market” simply limited to the rental rate without consideration to concessions of the market at a given time? In today’s tenant’s market rental abatement and tenant improvements are certainly one of many standard “market” items that a wise tenant will address. Often in the fine print of the option language the rental rate is at market, however, if market is less than the last month rent, the new rent will be the higher of the two numbers. Essentially a tenant is being penalized for already being an existing tenant under the previously described scenario if the option clause is not carefully drafted to protect the tenant. Tenants easily overlook significant major issues when negotiating a “rental rate.” Time is a tenant’s friend. Tenants, for ideal positioning, should commence the process 18 to 24 months prior to a lease expiring or option notification. Without time constraints, tenants can acquire a platform of real estate knowledge to negotiate from a fully informed position. The need for tenants to plan for addressing a lease expiration is further enhanced by the “holdover” provision often found near the end of a lease document. A “holdover” provision outlines the cost for a tenant remaining in the premises beyond lease expiration, even if a tenant remains in the premises with the landlord’s consent. This “holdover” cost could run as high as 300% of the last month’s rent, another unforeseen expenditure if a tenant does not protect themselves. You have negotiated aggressively for the high identity location of being located directly off the elevator lobby. Can the landlord relocate you? Yes again. Leases provide the landlord the right to relocate a tenant at the landlord’s discretion, again an unforeseeable cost which may be limited or avoided with careful attention to this clause.
ADV ISOR Y
A lease is set in concrete for the lease term. A mere $.25 increase in rental rate for 5,000 square feet hits the bottom line with a $75,000 increase of occupancy cost over a five-year lease. You would never go to court permitting the opposing council to represent your interest or into an audit without your accountant, hence you would not go to the negotiating table without your own tenant advocate. Landlords expect a tenant will be represented and the fee for a tenant’s advocate work is already included in the cost of the transaction; it is a windfall for a landlord if you show up alone. The landlord is not your friend. There is a window in time for tenants to set long term occupancy cost in today’s high vacancy market, so don’t miss it. Landlords are providing significant concessions in all areas of lease components, coupled with year one base rent pricing discounted up to 75% less than pricing of two years ago in some cases. The most powerful tool in negotiating any item – market expertise and competition, will save a tenant significant rent dollars and protection in leases that are inherently to the landlord’s advantage.
What you don’t know can, and will, cost you.
Complete Your Organization With Our Team Of Accounting Consultants • BUSINESS MANAGEMENT • QUICKBOOKS CONSULTING • BOOKKEEPING • ACCOUNTING • CONTROLLERSHIP • CFO • TRAINING / COACHING • TAXES T / AUDIT PREP KNOW WHERE YOUR BUSINESS STANDS! CONTACT ST STA NDS! CONT CONTA CT HUGHES ACCOUNTING SERVICES TODAY A AY FOR YOUR CUSTOM EV EVALUATION. EVA ALU LUA ATION. A TION. HUGHES ACCOUNTING SERVICES
323-378-5924 INFO@HUGHESGS.COM WWW.HUGHESGS.COM
CSQMag.com | 65
ADV ISOR Y
CSQ ADVISOR Alan S. Hopkins Chief Economic Strategist, Manchester Financial
Mr. Hopkins joined Manchester Financial, an Investment Counsel, in 1995 as chief economic strategist after several years at Charles Schwab & Co. Mr. Hopkins was responsible for developing Schwab’s high net-worth 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. He and his wife, Kristy, were married in 1990 and have 2 children. Manchester Financial 805/495.4405 www.mfinvest.com
66 | CSQMag.com
T
A Penny Saved Is A Penny Taxed
he Beatles’ George Harrison wrote these famous lyrics in “The Taxman” when he realized his earnings were pushing him into the 95% tax bracket in England: Should 5% appear too small, be thankful I don’t take it all, ‘cause I’m the taxman, yeah, I’m the taxman. Rates will climb from 14% to 187% over the next three years, so income taxes are on their way up in a big way! During the “Roaring 20’s,” taxes were in the 25% range for top earners. Due to lower tax receipts at the onset of the Great Depression, Congress increased the tax rate in 1932 to 63%, and then steadily pushed it up to 91% by 1963. It was still as high as 70% in 1980, before President Reagan slashed it down to 28%. History doesn’t repeat itself, but it does rhyme. Income Type
2010
2013
% Increase
Ordinary Income Interest Income Long Term Gains Dividend Income
35% 35% 15% 15%
40% 43% 24% 43%
14% 23% 60% 187%
While the economic outlook has decidedly improved over the past year, we remain skeptical about the sustainability of the current market rally, as recent optimism gives way to a number of challenges over the next few years. Why? The short answer is that we can’t predict the emotion (fear or greed) that will prevail in the short run, but we have a better feel for the facts that will prevail in the long run: increasing budget deficits leading to higher interest rates, causing even larger deficits, to be supposedly solved with higher taxes, leading to slower growth, and lower tax revenues, which again increases budget deficits. Our government faces a trifecta of problems: a mountain of debt, ballooning short-term debt that comes due in the months ahead, and interest rates that will soon climb higher. All that debt could be thought of as a form of borrowing against future consumption - - now we must pay it back in the form of less spending. This lower spending suggests we could see a sluggish economy for a number of years to come. Even worse, one third of our debt is short-term and its refinancing will cost more than the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan combined, each year! So, to pay for all of this, our political savants have decided to raise our taxes over the next three years as shown in the table above. To prepare for the coming tax onslaught, the savvy investor will need to utilize a variety of strategies. Superior results can be achieved at three levels: tax-efficient asset allocation, tax-wise asset location, and tax-savvy strategy implementation. Each of these three areas requires strategies ranging from simple to complex. You’ll need to design, implement, and maintain the proper strategies for your situation. Remember, it’s not just what you earn, it’s what you keep! Investors looking back on strong returns deserve to feel good, especially given the level of nerve that was required to get their gains in the aftermath of a very difficult period. Looking back helps us understand how our economy got to the place it is today. But making good investment decisions requires us to look forward and understand how things are likely to unfold in the months and years ahead. The past few years (and let’s face it, the past decade) have been difficult and fraught with investment danger. Investors that did not
ADV ISOR Y
adjust to changing economic and market conditions have generally suffered the consequences of greatly diminished wealth. While recent signs of economic strength are encouraging, they mostly stem from temporary factors like stimulus spending and inventory rebuilding. We believe that, based on current valuations, it is unlikely that stocks will return much more than single-digits (annualized) in the next five years. With the return outlook not very exciting, and significant risks in the markets, we don’t see an incentive right now to take on a lot of pure stock market risk. As always, it’s important to work hard to understand the reality we live in and its impact on financial markets, and make investment decisions accordingly. In looking ahead, we do see positive ways to generate returns that are better than what the markets provide. We are enthusiastic on the unusually wide risk-reward trade-offs that currently exist and can be taken advantage of in today’s environment. As in the past, the wise investor will ratchet down risk when it doesn’t make sense to take it, and take strategic advantage of opportunities when they are presented. If so, your own outlook is decidedly better than the mediocre outlook suggested by the big picture and current valuations. As always, fortune favors the prepared.
While the economic outlook has decidedly improved over the past year, we remain skeptical about the sustainability of the current market rally.
Small Business Capital Advisory Your Most Pressing Questions:
Our Advisory Solutions:
•
Can I get financing for my company?
•
Over two decades of advisory solutions
•
The bank turned me down, now what?
•
Quick analysis and knowledgeable underwriting
•
How can I return to profitability or accelerate growth?
•
Out-of-the-box solutions for complex problems
•
What are the best financing products and structure for my company’s operations?
•
Proven negotiation skills and fast answers
•
Working Capital Lines of Credit and SBA Loans
•
What financing or equity will my company qualify for?
•
Mezzanine Capital & M&A Financing
•
I am over advanced at my bank; what can I do?
•
Purchase Order Finance
GFS is your guide to accessing capital for companies with $2 to $250 million in revenue. Leverage our expertise and funding sources to optimize the capital structure of your business today!
1-888-912-5194
ADV ISOR Y
Health Care Reform
New Strategies for Managing One of Your Largest Expenses
CSQ ADVISOR Martin Levy President, Corporate Strategies, Inc.
Martin Levy, CLU/RHU is president and founder of Corporate Strategies, Inc., located in Encino, California for over 20 years. Corporate Strategies, Inc. specializes in helping small-to-medium size businesses develop strategies to turn the benefits that they offer into business assets, using proprietary tools developed by the organization. The firm is comprised of professionals in human resource, executive leadership, insurance, employee benefit design, compensation, and tax and financial planning. The firm has proven expertise in helping companies maximize the value of their benefit offerings. Corporate Strategies, Inc. uses a benefit scorecard to help employers rate the opportunity to improve their delivery and effectiveness of their plans. They are one of the largest insurance brokers in the greater Los Angeles area, and a top-20 ranked broker for Anthem in California. Visit their Web site: www.corpstrat.com
68 | CSQMag.com
W
ith the passage of the $940-million-dollar 2010 health care reform package, business owners are anxiously awaiting the impact of the new bill, and most are hoping for significant relief from both the burden and expense of delivering health insurance. Because there may be little immediate relief in sight, business owners need to explore every possible opportunity to help mitigate these costs. There are a lot of new ways for companies to offer benefits packages to their employees that many business owners may be unaware of. Despite improvements in health plans, designs, and the technology available to manage them all, many companies have not changed their fundamental approach to keep up with the times. Employee benefits (including health insurance) are many times a company’s third biggest expense, just behind payroll and rent. Because the employment pendulum has swung in favor of companies, it creates an opportunity to extol the virtues of their benefits. The clear communication of programs, and the dollar value relative to salaries, can help employees better understand their entire compensation package and help your company get the maximum mileage from the expense. Making sure employees understand the value of their benefits also makes it easier for companies to ask them to contribute to plans that had been previously been delivered “a gratis,” a necessity for some businesses to stay afloat during rough economic times.
The engagement of employees in the selection of benefit levels and plan choices is critical to every employer. The engagement of employees in the selection of benefit levels and plan choices is critical to every employer. When the plans are interactive and employees are informed and educated, the employer can transform the expense of healthcare into an asset, all the while offsetting his costs or setting a flat dollar allocation to limit his expense. Many companies have been reluctant to re-engineer their plans because of the complexity and lack of guidance available to them, yet no firm is too small to evaluate and implement multiple plans and choices. Many companies still deliver a “one size fits all” approach with respect to benefits, which is akin to using a screwdriver to pound in a nail. Most insurance providers have developed plan designs to help business owners grapple with the delivery of insurance, creating a “choose your own” platform, which helps to ease the dialogue about sharing in the costs. Many companies can benefit by engaging an outside resource to help customize and personalize the benefit selection process.
There are two specific tools that make up the backbone of planning today: Make sure employee health insurance contributions are being taken out of payroll on a pre-tax basis through a Section 125 plan commonly known as a “Cafeteria Plan.” Even if you think they are, double-check. Having these funds taken out on a pre-tax basis will lower your payroll tax and lower employees’ tax basis. A simple document allows for “premiums only,” whereas a more complex version allows
ď Ľ ADV ISOR Y ď Ś
for many items such as dependent care and unreimbursed medical expenses, (even parking) to be paid from pre-tax dollars. Â&#x192; Consider Health savings Accounts (HsA) for yourself and your employees. the government developed these accounts as a way to help employees pay for medical benefits using tax deductible funds, and can be either employee or employer funded. the trick with HsAs is have someone well-versed in these accounts work with employees to determine an appropriate amount for withdrawal, because there are heavy tax consequences if you need to withdraw the funds for purposes other than medical benefits (only certain types of health plans can be paired with an HsA).
Employers of every size will continue to deliver benefits as a way to compensate, attract, and retain staff, and in exchange, receive favorable tax treatment of the expense. However, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s too large of an item to allow for error. While waiting for the impact of the implementation of federal legislation, employers of every size need to work closely with their advisers to help them deliver the best possible opportunities to their employees. ď&#x201A;&#x161;
Employers of every size will continue to deliver benefits as a way to compensate, attract, and retain staff, and in exchange, receive favorable tax treatment of the expense.
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 | 69
CSUITEQUARTERLY / regional
Green Economy
INTRODUCING THE
GREEN INNOVATION ZONE
a
By Bill Buratto
s the nation creeps out of the recession and the State of California continues its struggles with record deficits, local governments are faced with the challenge of developing new strategies to increase revenue and determine priorities. Over the past several years, cities and counties have seen dramatic reductions in state allocations and other revenue sources, a trend that is likely to continue for some time. Consequently, local governments are looking for ways to increase dollars to provide for basic services and maintain a high quality of life for citizens. Among the strategies considered is economic and workforce development; or more simply, create jobs and an educated workforce, which increases the personal wealth of citizens, thereby increasing tax and other revenues. A group of business leaders, public officials, educational institutions, economic development organizations, and nonprofits from Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo Counties have come together to create the Green Coast Innovation Zone (GCiZ) as a regional economic and workforce development strategy. The three counties are contiguous and have common geographic, demographic, and economic profiles including similar industry sectors. Each county has at least one major university and a military installation where research and product development can and does occur.
Local Green Leaders
A roundup of 9 green companies already doing business in the Green Innovation Zone...
The GCiZ is intended to leverage public and private assets and natural resources to stimulate innovation, entrepreneurship, and job growth through research, business incubation, private investment, focused workforce development, targeted economic development, and policy development. The GCiZ will focus on the emerging green economy including renewable energy and other technologies that promote sustainability. It will also help facilitate the transformation to a more sustainable economy and environment in the region. A recent study, Innovating the Green Economy in California Regions conducted by the Center for Community Innovation at the University of California, Berkeley, looked at where and how much innovation is occurring in the green economy in California and how it takes place at the regional level. They found that the green economy is growing more rapidly than other sectors and that most innovation is taking place in the coastal regions of the state. They further concluded that innovation and business growth is positively influenced by collaboration with government agencies, universities, unions, utilities, and associations in the regional innovation system.(http://communityinnovation.berkeley.edu) The concept for GCiZ is to create a mechanism for collaboration, information sharing, education and networking to harness the collective energy, intellectual capital, resources, and assets across the tri-counties towards meeting common goals and objectives. It will also foster networking between innovators, entrepreneurs, the investment community, and other service providers. The Green Coast has strengths that when viewed in combination add up to a unique set of regional assets. Our climate and geography are excellent for renewable energy projects in solar, wind, and wave technologies. The region is a global leader in sustainable agriculture including solar installations (Limoneira), organic tomato operations (Houwelingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hot House, Winset Farms) and the recycling of green waste (Agromin). It is the home
Agromin
Gills Onions
Privately owned 9 employees $1 to $2.5 million / yr. Nationally recognized green waste and recycling company that makes organic mulch, fertilizer, and other products.
Privately Owned 200 Employees $50 - $100 million / yr. Gills Onions are 100% usable, there is no waste disposal problem or yield loss, all wrapped in eco-friendly PLA retail packaging.
Houwelingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hot Houses Privately owned 12 employees $2.5 to $5 million / yr. Operates 70.2 hectares high-tech hydroponic, solar powered greenhouses in Oxnard, CA.
Limoneira Public Corporation $34.4 million / yr. Has over 7,000 acres of rich agriculture land in production producing lemons, avocados, oranges, specialty citrus, and more.
The Ventura County naval Base has also been nationally recognized for its energy efficiency programs. In 2008 they received the Energy Star® Label for Office Facility.
Clipper windpower, the only independentlyowned utility-scale wind turbine company based in the United States.
The region is a global leader in sustainable agriculture including organic tomato operations like houwelings hot house.
of Clipper Windpower, the only independently-owned utility-scale wind turbine company based in the United States. The region is also a demonstration site for wind projects and there are two utility-scale solar projects in development. Additionally, Pacific Gas & Electric has recently signed an agreement with Vandenberg Air Force Base to develop a wave energy project. The region is also a leader in green construction and sustainable practices. Santa Barbara County’s energy efficiency municipal district is a national leader in reducing the energy cost of operating buildings. The Ventura County Naval Base has also been nationally recognized for its energy efficiency programs. In 2008 they received the Energy Star® Label for Office Facility from the US Environmental Protection Agency. The base also received the White House “Closing the Circle” Award for Leadership in Federal Environmental Stewardship in 2006. The GCiZ is developing partnerships with major employers, research facilities, and educators. The University of California, Santa Barbara’s Institute for Energy Efficiency, and the Bren School of Environmental Science and Management – as well as California Polytechnic University, San Luis Obispo’s California Central Coast Research Partnership – are already working with entrepreneurs and scientists to develop new energy-related technologies and projects. The community college systems and the Workforce Investment Boards in the tri-county region are creating innovative job training programs to help train the green workforce. The GCiZ is in its start-up phase. It has published a white paper, recruited a leadership team, convened a summit, established workgroups, and developed a budget and fundraising plan. There are more than 70 entities across the three counties involved in the effort. There is much more to be done, but those involved believe that GCiZ holds great promise as an economic and workforce development strategy for our region. And, that through collaboration, we can build on our collective assets to grow an industry sector in its infancy and foster new enterprises and job creation. At the same time, we can enhance our environmental sustainability and preserve the quality of life that is uniquely - the Green Coast. Bill Buratto is President/CEO of the Ventura County Economic Development Association and Chair of the Green Coast Innovation Zone. He can be reached at bburatto@vceda.org.
ojAI EnERGY SYSTEMS / LIBERTYpAK prIvAtely owNed 4 eMployees < $500k / yr. uses lithium ion battery technology for the motion picture film and lighting industry.
pEnTAIR pooL pRodUCTS prIvAtely owNed 1500 eMployees $50 to $100 million / yr. provides high performance, reliable, and energy-efficient aquatic equipment.
SoLARTRonICS InC / MULICK ConSTRUCTIon & dESIGn prIvAtely owNed 5 eMployees $1 to $2.5 million / yr. A local solar integrator and solar panel installer.
ConTInEnTAL wInd powER prIvAtely owNed 10 eMployees $1 million / yr. looking to build a plant in ventura County, Continental wind power is a startup wind turbine company.
TRAnSonIC CoMBUSTIon InC prIvAtely owNed 4 eMployees $300,000.00 / yr. developing a revolutionary internal combustion engine that will get over 100 miles per gallon.
CSUITEQuArterly / literature By Jim Cathcart
Required Reading
tHe optIMIsM AdvANtAge by Dr. Terry Paulson www.terrypaulson.com or www.terrypaulson.com/optimism/
T
here are optimists, pessimists, and realists. I’ve found that the “realists” are actually pessimists who won’t admit it. All of us need to face reality and tell ourselves and others the truth. But beyond that, we find ourselves facing a choice: will we proceed optimistically or pessimistically? The advantage of optimism is that it produces consistently better and
ACres of dIAMoNds by Russell Herman Conwell
F
ew books can claim to have inspired a generation or more, but this one clearly has done just that. Acres of Diamonds was written in the late 1800’s by former Union Army officer, attorney, author, and preacher, Russell Conwell. Dr. Conwell was an enormously successful man in most of his endeavors, but none more than as the inspirational and financial founder of Temple University. He delivered the speech that became this book more than 6,000 times around the world and used the fees from those speeches to help found the university. Conwell was the consummate motivational speaker. His theological roots and personal business acumen blended perfectly with his dedication to serving others. A very
greater results than any other mind-set. Additionally, people like to be around optimists. They are not only more cheerful because they are confident that a solution can be found somewhere, but they are more likely to see opportunities. Whereas “realists” only see limitations, the optimists find new, unexplored paths. Every great discovery brings with it both challenges and benefits. The optimist sees benefits within each challenge, while the “realist” focuses on the threats. Short-sighted realism leads to depression and fear. Far-sighted optimism generates hope, faith, and persistence in the face of resistance. Let Dr. Paulson show you how to cultivate an optimistic mind-set and how to challenge your own tendencies toward doubt and fear. This is real science and not just “positive thinking” by itself. Dr. Paulson is a nationally renown psychologist, author, and speaker who can also become your mentor toward a more positive outlook and increased confidence.
inspiring man, Conwell’s primary message was one of hope for all of mankind. In fact, his inspiration for founding the university was seven young men who sought his help because they couldn’t afford to go to college. In this book, about finding riches right where you live, he told people, “It is your duty to become rich!” He then illustrated with story after story how ordinary people had discovered opportunities by working hard at what they were already doing and how, upon becoming rich, opened the way for thousands of others to do likewise. Only through your own personal advancement can you attain a position where you can offer opportunities to others. The “poor” never created jobs nor solved societies’ problems, except when they left the ranks of the poor, through their own efforts and found new ways to be of value in the world. “Find a need and fill it,” is still the formula for earning a better living and
regaining the dignity of self-reliance. Today, more than at any time in recent memory, our world needs the inspiration of Russell Conwell. Be the most recent person in your family and office to read and feel the impact of this book. Take its message to heart and give as you live. There are acres of diamonds in your own back yard.
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.
72 | 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
CSUITEQUARTERLY / culture
Uptown Arts
Mullin’s ‘Rolling Sculptures’
Art On Wheels and More
The “Lake Bugatti” 1925 Bugatti type 22 Brescia Roadster chassis lifted after 75 years of submersion in Lake Maggiore is on display with photos of the amazing find; seen here as it is displayed. 74 | CSQMag.com
ugatti, Delahaye, Voisin - names European and historic. They conjure up images of a magnificent era of exquisitely engineered classic cars all on display in the Mullin Automotive Museum. The racers, roadsters, and coupes are in the new Mullin Automotive Museum which pays homage to Art Deco and the legendary Bugatti familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unequalled marriage of design and technology. The sprawling museum features a superlative
collection of some 50 cars circa 1920s to 21st century. Car aficionados and art lovers alike will appreciate the scope of craftsmanship and imagination. There is much to behold, plus sculpture, paintings, photography, ceramics, glass, and furniture. Important, too, is the Schlumpf Collection of cars. Nestled between sprawling Los Angeles and Ventura, the museum is tucked away in un-urban Oxnard. Its industrial park location obliquely testifies to the carâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s permeation of life.
By Gordon Durich
CSQMag.com | 75
CSUITEQUARTERLY / culture
Uptown Arts
Le Mans The Le Mans section of the museum is home to several classic racing cars. “The Museum is unlike any other collection in the world. We show an array of conditions from unrestored to restored,” said Andrew Reilly, Deputy Director and Chief Curator. “This was the golden age of the auto, 1920s to 1940s… there are a lot of people who believe the single most important development of the 20th century was the car.” Sleek, elegant, curvaceous, these cars –“rolling sculptures” as Reilly called them –were for the elite, with the chassis alone costing $20,000 at a time when a house was $3,800. The chassis would move to a coach builder to customize the interior and exterior body. One car sported cut-glass light features. The museum’s motor cavalcade evokes the spirit of French Grand Salons. Visually arresting are rare treasures such as owner Peter Mullin’s favorite, a chic 1938 Talbot Lago T150CS Goutte D’Eau, or Teardrop. Other showroom stars include a 1939 12-cylinder Delahaye. Historically significant are models such the Laborotoire, and a 1925 Bugatti type 22 Brescia Roadster chassis, lifted after
75 years of submersion in Lake Maggiore. The “Lake Bugatti” is displayed with accompanying photographic images of the remarkable recovery. An Angelino, entrepreneur, and visionary, Peter Mullin collects fine automobiles. His passion fueled the establishment of a foundation dedicated to studying, preserving, and showing classic cars. Chairman emeritus of Mullin TBG and founder of M Financial, Mullin serves on boards including the Gene Autry Heritage Museum and UCLA Foundation Board of Trustees, and is chairman of the Music Center Foundation. He is past president of the American Bugatti Club, and member of the Bugatti Trust which celebrates the historic movement incorporating sublime style and engineering. “When I saw my first custom built French car about 30 years ago, a Delahaye, and for the first time realized that engineering masterpieces could also be sculptural “rolling art,” I was hooked from then on and have passionately pursued these Art Deco creations from then on.”
Mullin’s Favorite Owner Peter Mullin’s favorite, a chic 1938 Talbot Lago T150CS Goutte D’Eau, or Teardrop.
76 | CSQMag.com
Also superb is the museum building, which once housed the Otis Chandler collection. Acquired in 2006 after the newspaper magnate’s passing, the “vintage” museum was redesigned by architect David Hertz to be “green.” The environmentally conscious design features a solar photovoltaic roof system and lighting. Picture yourself behind the wheel of a 1925 Bugatti, or driving the 1929 Voisin C28 Cabriolet resurrected and used in the 2004 movie “Sahara.” Linger in the state of the art theater for a short film tour, or lounge in the second-story bar. Do that on Saturdays, since the museum is open to the public (admission is $8) by reservation only. Call 805/385.5400, or visit www.mullinautomotivemuseum.org. The Mullin Automotive Museum is at 1421 Emerson Avenue, Oxnard.
tHe
BeLLAViNO’S wInE BAR EXpERIEnCE
By rebecca S. Miller
O
pen the door and glide through the impressive cellar racks to experience Bellavino’s Wine Bar. From the beautiful hand-blown glass pendants that line the ceiling, to the cool- blue cracked glass bar, Bellavino’s sparkles. What is swirled in the glass and served on the plate is truly a symphony of sensory delights. A wall of exceptional wines surrounds the bar fireplace, and 30-40 innovative “by-the-glass” offerings are poured by the wine-savvy staff. Over 2,500 reasonably priced selections fill the “book,” a list especially deep in French and unique California bottles. Intimate tables for two line the bar area and live music (Thursday through Sunday) creates the feel of a hip NYC jazz club, right here in Uptown, Thousand Oaks. The sophisticated crowd gathers to muse about the Lakers, relish the food, groove to the music, chat about the weather, and explore the wines. Everyone is educating everyone. Wine connoisseur and owner Richard Belloff notes, “I see folks ordering different wines, say a $38 Chianti next to a $250 Burgundy... and they share with each other! It becomes an educational experience.” Confident and successful singles come during the week to share the food and wine experience. Ah, the food. Chef Gelacio Herandez turns out highquality, wine-friendly treats. The innovative seasonal menu is beautifully presented on distinctive serving plates. Appetizers such as seared prawns in a zesty rum-infused chili sauce and the blackberry balsamic-glazed margherita flat bread set the stage.
BELLAVIno’S wInE BAR 3707 eAst tHousANd oAKs Blvd. westlAKe vIllAge, CA 91362 805/557.0202 INfo@BellAvINo.CoM www.bellavinowinebar.com
Tasty entrees such as perfectly grilled lamb chops (with just the right amount of pesto) or the seared ahi with miso and passionfruit are not to be missed. hoURS When challenged to find the tue-wed 5pM-11 pM perfect wine pairing, General tHur-sAt 5pM-1AM Manager Tim Rhodes brilliantly rises to the occasion with UpCoMInG EVEnTS palette-pleasing surprises. weeKly, Wed. Tastings with Berna Top off your entrée with JuNe 5tH, “Swirl” Saturday JuNe 16tH, California Dreamin’ delicacies from the charcuterie JuNe 23rd, Merlot Madness and the many inspired cheese JuNe 30tH, Bar-B-Que Wines selections from around the world. Join it with a glass of Dark Star Cabernet to tantalize your taste buds even further before heading to the delicious desserts. Relax with the cooljazz “groove” in the bar area, or enjoy the lovely heated patio or the intimate dining room (which is also available for private parties). You will see Belloff and Rhodes in the crowd, effortlessly managing the vibe. Check out the calendar on the Bellavino Web site for winemaker dinners, Wednesday tastings, “Swirl” events, and the full musical line-up. Visit the adjacent wine shop to bring home your favorite selections. When it’s happening at Bellavino’s Wine Bar, you can be assured it will be done with quality, class, sophistication, and details that make the difference.
CSUITEQuArterly / dining
Business Lunch
By Tiffany Weatherman It is said that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, however with so many men and women these days using lunch hour as their ‘power hour’ to make and close their most significant business deals, we beg to differ. How you spend your lunch hour says a lot about your priorities and the locale in which you choose to spend this vital part of your afternoon defines your persona to those you are ‘power lunching’ with.
ThE CARBon BEACh CLUB MALIBU BEACh Inn 22878 PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY MALIBU, CA 90265 CsQ CoNtACt: JIll JeNNINgs 310/456.6444 www.MAlIBuBeACHINN.CoM reservAtIoNs@MAlIBuBeACHINN.CoM BREAKFAST: MoN-suN 7AM -11AM LUnCh: MoN-suN 11AM-5PM dInnER: MoN-suN 5PM-10PM
Overlooking the breathtaking Pacific Ocean, the Malibu Beach Inn sits tucked away in a quiet hideaway along Malibu Beach. the inn’s Carbon Beach Club restaurant provides for a distinguished dinning experience with fresh California coastal cuisine and a list of hand-selected, small production wines from premier California wineries. The breezy atmosphere and pure ambience allow for precisely the appropriate selection to host a relaxed lunch meeting. The Carbon Beach Club offers many healthy lunch options from delectable Mediterranean salad to an enticing lobster Club sandwich. the lunch menu also includes a variety of vegetarian style burgers and sandwiches.
salads like the wakame sunomono salad made with Japanese cucumber and seaweed topped off by tosa vinegar. Choose from 32 different types of sushi and 13 different rolls for your main course. Chef Mitsu-san also gives you an option to pick from an assortment of tempura, hot plates, and Kushiyaki.
ThE VInEYARd AT MEdITERRAnEo 32037 AGOURA ROAD
KAndA SUShI 3637 E. THOUSAND OAKS BLVD THOUSAND OAKS, CA 91362 CsQ CoNtACt: AKIKo sAsHIMo 805/230.0101 www.KANdAsusHIto.CoM INfo@KANdAsusHIto.CoM LUnCh: tue-frI 11:30AM-2:30PM dInnER: tue-suN 5PM -10PM
Kanda sushi provides for an ideal location to host a small lunch meeting offering you authentic Japanese dining and a showcase of diverse sushi. Known for his creativity and ability to prepare exotic dishes, Chef Mitsu-san sits as Kanda sushi’s master chef. He takes pride in his ability to remain true to the Japanese art of sushi by placing emphasis on the quality of the fish. In order to avoid overshadowing the taste of the sushi you choose, Chef Mitsu-san avoids rich sauces, soy paper, and other unauthentic items. start your lunch by enjoying miso soup, edemame or one of Kanda sushi’s
78 | CSQMag.com
WESTLAKE VILLAGE, CA 91361 CsQ CoNtACt: erIC vAwdA 818/889.9105 www.Med-rest.CoM BRUnCh: suN 10AM-1:30PM LUnCh: MoN-sAt 11AM-5PM dInnER: suN-tHu 5PM-9PM frI-sAt 5PM-10PM
with a unique bistro-style seasonal menu, the vineyard at Mediterraneo presents an award winning wine list and an array of the freshest seasonal seafood, poultry, meats, produce, and herbs obtainable in the market. this, complimented by its stunning lakeside patio, private dinning room, and stylish atmosphere, helps the vineyard at Mediterraneo set the stage for your ideal business lunch. the vineyard at Mediterraneo gives you a choice of a fast economical way to enjoy your lunch experience with the express lunch 10, or a more traditional lunch option with entrées ranging from the traditional greek salad to spaghetti pomodoro.
CSUITEQuArterly / dining
Happy Hour
The term “happy hour” may have been created by the U.S. navy to describe a designated period of time for entertainment and refreshment. however, happy hour has long since become a common catchphrase. Men and women around the globe know it as a time to unwind after a hard day’s work. The key to mastering this experience is finding just the right location to fit your fancy.
TRA dI noI RISToRAnTE 3835 CROSS CREEK ROAD #8A MALIBU, CA 90265 CsQ CoNtACt: ANtoNIo AlessI www.trAdINoIMAlIBu.CoM no CoRKAGE FEE on MondAY MoN-suN 12PM-10PM
staying true to the name tra di Noi, which means ‘between us’ this local-secret has brought the spirit of Italy to Malibu. tra di Noi ristorante takes pride in their attentive, friendly service and exquisite detail to the preparation and presentation of every dish they serve. tra di Noi provides an extensive wine menu featuring over 500 items from a selection of Italian, french, and local California wines ni osconi & Antonio & Antonio Alessicomplimented Alessi | Wine | Wine Room | Patio | Patio | Executive Executive Chef Franceso Chef Franceso Velasco by aRoom menu complete with| authentic Italian cooking. toVelasco top it off, this homey, Italian gem welcomes you on Mondays to enjoy no corkage fees on all bottles of wine.
Days | 7 Days a Week a Week | Sunday | Sunday Brunch Brunch
oss 35 Cross CreekCreek Rd #8A Rd |#8A Malibu, | Malibu, California California ountry bu Country Market Market
One One of Malibu’s of Malibu’s Best!Best!
bu.com m
pIKEY’S - Zagat- Restaurant Zagat Restaurant GuidepUB Guide
30315 CANWOOD STREET AGOURA HILLS, CA 91301 CsQ CoNtACt: pHIl feltoN or CArlos orosCo 818/991.2170 weB url: www.pIKeyspuB.CoM hAppY hoURS:
RIVIERA RESTAURAnT And LoUnGE
MoN-sAt 2PM-4PM, 4PM-7PM
23683 CALABASAS RD
suN 2PM-CLOSING
CALABASAS, CA 91302
MoN-tHu 10PM-12AM
CsQ CoNtACt: deBrA potts 818/224.2163 www.rIvIerACAlABAsAs.CoM hAppY hoURS: MoN-suN 5PM-8PM
surrounded by beautiful indoor water fountains and venetian plaster walls, the riviera restaurant and lounge sets the stage to provide you with the ideal locale to relax and imbibe after that long day’s work. Choose from the full menu or the bar menu, compliment your meal with any of riviera’s exquisite cocktails, and enjoy a 30% discount off your final bill during happy hour. (discount not including wine.)
Displaying 15 flat screen TV’s, 2 dart boards, and even a lounge area with 2 xBox gaming stations, pikey’s pub does anything but fit the description of most typical Irish pubs. with 16 beers on tap, a full bar, and a menu complete with traditional Irish faire, this pub takes it to the next level. offering a plethora of happy hour specials giving one the option to purchase beer at $2.00, cocktails at $2.00, and wine at $3.00, pikey’s pub is sure to provide you with exactly what the doctor ordered; an upscale establishment to unwind after a long day’s work.
CSQMag.com | 79
CSUITEQUARTERLY / events
Welcoming Mike Bradbury to Anderson Kill Wood & Bender Topa Tower Club, Oxnard, CA Guest of Honor: Former California Gov. Pete Wilson Master of Ceremonies: County Supervior Peter Foy Honorees: Michael Bradbury and Jeff Gorell Lead Sponsors: Anderson Kill Wood & Bender Photos: Rick Quinn Contact: Tim Gallagher 805/276.2110
Westlake Village Junior Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club, Sipping in Springtime The Gardens of the World Thousand Oaks, CA Master of Ceremonies: Matt Graumann Performers: Scott James and Christine McCrudden Lead Sponsors: Pikeys Pub, Lloyd Michaelson Law Offices, Dreambreaders. com, Syrup Swimwear, North Ranch Bodycraft & Glass, Atomix Athletes, Sherwood Development, Westlake Village Inn Photos: Sarah Rico Contact: Angela and Tina Skultety, angela.skultety@yahoo.com
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
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
will fully orchestrate, coordinate and give you the party that you have dreamed of.
Serving you for over 30 years!
â&#x20AC;&#x153;No party too large, no party too small, just one call handles it allâ&#x20AC;?
CSUITEQUARTERLY / events
A Reading Celebration with Muhammad Yunus Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza & Westlake Village Inn Guests of Honor: Muhammad Yunus speaker; Michael Okwu moderator Performances by: Green Children Awards: Steve Hilton, the Yunus Social Innovation Medal Lead Sponsor: Sage Publications Photos: Larry Janss Contact: Julia Wilson, VP Advancement CSU Channel Islands, julia.wilson@csuci.edu
The Grand Re-opening of Mediterraneo & the Unveiling of The Vineyard at Mediterraneo Westlake Village Inn Chef: Alberto Vazquez Photos: Viktor Budnik Contact: Chris Cuilty, The Westlake Village Inn, 818/889.0230, chris_cuilty@wvinn.com www.med-rest.com
Third Annual Provident Financial Management Golf Classic Charity: Bogart Pediatric Cancer Research Program
Sherwood Country Club Lead Sponsor: Provident Financial Management Photographer: Paul Lester Photography Contact: Bogart Pediatric Cancer Research Program, 323/330.0519, bogartfoundation.org
82 | CSQMag.com
CSUITEQUARTERLY / events
101 Leaders Cathcart Institute Topic: Sales in 2010
Westlake Village Inn Speaker/Special Guest: Don Hutson Photos: Paula Cathcart Contact: Jim Cathcart, jim@cathcart.com www.101leaders.com
80’s Dance Party & Celebrity Auction to Benefit Boys & Girls Club of Malibu Villa Contenta, Malibu Private Residence Emcee: Kenny G Live Auction Hosted by: Dan Cortese Performers: The English Beat & Boys Don’t Cry w/ special guest Roy Hay of Culture Club Lead Sponsors: McShane Family, Everclean Services, Susan White, Whitespeed, Belvedere Vodka, John Varvatos Photos: Dana Fineman, Quyan Tran, Nick Vazelakis Contact: Kasey Earnest kaseyearnest@bgcmalibu.org
Friends of Heschel West Guy’s Night Out The Autogallery Calabasas, CA Lead Sponsors: The Autogallery, Tycoon Jewelers, CSQ Magazine, Kretek Imports Inc., King Dahl Event Design, Wood Ranch BBQ Photos: Robby K Photography Contact: Heschel West, 818/707.2365 www.friendsofhw.com
CSUITEQUARTERLY / events
Gold Coast Business Forum Topic: Outlook 2010: M & A and Financing Transactions
Westlake Village Inn Panelists: David Bonrouhi - Calabasas Capital LLC, Edwin Moss - Lincolnshire Management, Richard Wolff - Triton Media, Dan Peate Peate Ventures, LLC Lead Sponsors: Calabasas Capital LLC, CRESA Partners, CSQ Magazine, Ernst & Young, Manchester Financial, Musick Peeler, Pepperdine University - Graziadio School, Vapur, Wells Fargo Bank Photos: Robby K Photography Contact: Ali Schulze, 805/418.3104 www.goldcoastbusinessforum.com
InfoDine: Feeding Fine Minds With Fine Food & Friends Elite Fitness Plus Westlake Village, CA Keynote Speakers: Greg Angle, CEO, Los Robles Hospital and Mike Davis, President of Elite Fitness Plus Wine Sponsors: Cantara Cellars and Malibu Family Wines Honorees: Jamey Power from Multiple Sclerosis Society Board of Directors Lead Sponsors: So Cal Gas Co, So Cal Edison, Ventura County Star, People Media, Ventura County Community Foundation, KCLU NPR Radio Photos: Robby K Photography Contact: John Lockhart 800/600.7111 x 224 jlockhart@peoplemediagroup.com
CSQ Wrap Party 2010 Spring Issue Monrose Catering Kitchen Westlake Village., CA Speaker: Jim Cathcart Lead Sponsors: Richard Chesterfield Monrose Catering, AA Party Rentals Photos: Robby K Photography Contact: Richard Chesterfield 818/707.7307, Tiffany Weatherman tiffany@csqmag.com www.monrosecatering.com www.aapartyrentalsandsales.com www.csqmag.com
84 | CSQMag.com
arts plaza Coming Attractions
May 27-30
Imagine singing and dancing with Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Big Bird and all your favorite Sesame Street Live friends! It’s as easy as counting “1-2-3 Imagine!” This high-energy musical will transport audiences to far away places as Ernie captains the high seas, Elmo dances to the rhythm of the African rainforest and Bert meets an octopus who has the blues. It’s a story of adventure and fun that teaches children they can be anyone, do anything and go anywhere with the power of imagination.
Cabrillo Music Theatre presents
July 23 - Aug 1
Frankie Avalon, Fabian & Bobby Rydell
Kris Kristofferson Aug 12-15
(800) 745-3000 or ticketmaster.com
Sept 26
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 | 85
CSUITEQuArterly / resources
Business Directory
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
CAterINg MonRoSE CATERInG And SpECIAL EVEnTS 31117 via Colinas westlake village, CA 91362 818.707.7307 monrosecatering.com
CoNCIerge / experIeNCIAl 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 BAndon dUnES GoLF RESoRT 57744 round lake drive Bandon, or 97411 888.345.6008 bandondunesgolf.com 86 | CSQMag.com
Jewelery
ETF poRTFoLIo MAnAGEMEnT, LLC 350 via las Brisas, ste 270 Newbury park, CA 91320 david Kreinces 805.480.9785 eftpm.com
GIAnTTo 628 1/2 south Hill street los Angeles, CA 90014 213.623.3636
MAnChESTER FInAnCIAL 2815 townsgate rd, ste 100 westlake village, CA 91361 Alan Hopkins 805.495.4405 alan@mfinvest.com mfinvest.com
C - S U I T E QUARTERLY
ACCouNtINg / BooKKeepINg
fINANCIAl plANNINg
TITAn CLUB Four Seasons Westlake Village two dole drive westlake village, CA 91362 Becky leehey 818.575.3000 fourseasons.com/ westlakevillage LoST CAnYonS 3301 lost Canyons dr simi valley, CA 93063 805.522.4653 lostcanyons.com ShERwood LAKE CLUB 805.373.5992 sherwoodcc.com
UBS / MonETA GRoUp 31111 Agoura road westlake village, CA 91361 Joseph teurlings, uBs Advisor 818.874.2747 steven Carmandalian, uBs Advisor 818.874.2746 ubs.com/team/moneta
Hotel / MeetINg rooM FoUR SEASonS wESTLAKE VILLAGE two dole dr westlake village, CA 91362 818.575.3000 fourseasons.com/ westlakevillage/
MALIBU CoUnTRY CLUB 901 encinal Canyon rd Malibu, CA 90265 818.889.6680 malibucountryclub.net
pEnInSULA BEVERLY hILLS 9882 s santa Monica Blvd Beverly Hills, CA 90212 310.551.2888 peninsula.com
SpAnISh hILLS CoUnTRY CLUB 999 Crestview Ave Camarillo, CA 93010 Andrea Milton 805.388.5000 spanishhillscc.com
w hoLLYwood 6250 Hollywood Boulevard Hollywood, CA 90028 323.798.1300
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
wESTLAKE VILLAGE Inn 31943 Agoura rd westlake village, CA 91361 818.889.0230 westlakevillageinn.com
poLAChECK’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 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
INsurANCe servICes
luxury Auto
CoRpoRATE STRATEGIES, InC. 16255 ventura Boulevard suite 320 encino, CA 91436 Martin levy corpstrat.com
dREAM CARS wEST Exotic Car Rentals Chris reeves 800.671.1889 dreamcarswest.com
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
ThE LA AUTo GALLERY ferrari & Maserati 24050 west ventura Blvd. Calabasas, CA91302 888.355.5382 ferrari 888.648.0930 Maserati porsche 21301 ventura Blvd. woodland Hills, CA 91364 888.723.2659
14
Automobili Lamborghini & Audi 6600 Topanga Blvd Canoga Park, CA 91303 Ray Penman 818.575.9544 lamborghininorthlosangeles.com
Not for Profit
Marketing / Advertising
Boys & Girls Clubs of Conejo and Las Virgenes Mark Elswick 818.706.0905 melswick@bgcconejo.org bgcconejo.com
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
Alliance for the Arts 2100 Thousand Oaks Blvd Thousand Oaks, CA 91362 Patricia Jones 805.449.2700 allianceforthearts.org
Boys & Girls Club of Malibu 30215 Morning View Drive Malibu, CA 90265 Kasey Earnest 310.457.1400 malibuyouth.org
Private Air Men’s Apparel/ Accessories Wink 4783 Commons Way Suite C Calabasa, CA 91302 818.222.WINK winkoptometry.com The Auto Gallery, Automobili Lamborghini 6600 Topanga Blvd Canoga Park, CA 91303 Ray Penman 818.575.9544 lamborghininorthlosangeles.com
Museums The Mullin Automotive Museum 1421 Emerson Avenue Oxnard, CA 93033 805.385.5400 mullinautomotivemuseum.com The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation & Library 40 Presidential Drive Simi Valley, CA 93065 reaganlibrary.com
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
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 Mazirow Commercial Inc. Sheryl L Mazirow 818.757.1164 www.tenantadvisory.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
Restaurant / Catering Brent’s Deli 2799 Townsgate Rd Westlake Village, CA 91361 805.557.1882 brentsdeli.com Bellavino’s 3707 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd. Westlake Village, CA91362 805.557.0202 bellavinowinebar.com Kanda Sushi 3637 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd Thousand Oaks, CA 91362 Akiko Sashimo 805.230.0101 kandasushito.com Monrose Catering 31117 Via Colinas Westlake Village, CA 91362 Richard Chesterfield 818.707.7307 monrosecatering.com The Carbon Beach Club Malibu Beach Inn 22878 Pacific Coast Highway Malibu, CA 90265 Jill Jennings 310.456.6444 malibubeachinn.com Pikey’s Pub 30315 Canwood Street Agoura Hills, CA 91301 818.991.2170 pikeyspub.com
List Your Business or service HERE CSQ Magazine Directory advertising@csqmag.com csqmag.com
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 Q3 & Q4 schedules.
Riviera Restaurant and Lounge 23683 Calabasas Rd Calabasas, CA 91302 818.224.2163 rivieracalabasas.com The Vineyard at Mediterraneo 32037 Agoura Road Westlake Village, CA 91361 818.889.9105 med-rest.com
Zaya Younan Founder, Younan Properties
Tra di Noi 3835 Cross Creek Rd Malibu, CA 90265 310.456.0169 tradinoi.com XIV By Michael Mina 8117 Sunset Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90046 Jacob Shure 310.612.3519 / jacobs@sbe.com
Speaker / Training Daryl Wizelman Motivational Speaking 23945 Calabasas Rd, Ste 213 Calabasas, CA 91302 818.876.7337 daryl@wizelman.com blog: heartleader.com Jim Cathcart - 101 Leaders Institute C-Level / Upper Management 805.777.3477 info@101leaders.com 101leaders.com
Burt Sperber - Founder, ValleyCrest Companies
advertising@ csqmag.com 818.225.8763 Download our media kit at csqmag.com
CSQMag.com | 87
CSUITEQUARTERLY / visionaries
The Motivational Minute®
By Michael J. Herman
Bryan Clay Champions Formed In Clay
a
PHOTO BY JAVIER VILAR
s a motivating mantra, “Go for the gold” has become as cliché an idiom as they come, but when you say it to some people, they take you literally. So seriously in fact, that they spend their lives in driven pursuit of athletic perfection, setting their goals on Olympic gold. In some of their minds, they actually think you meant, go for a gold medal. So what do you do when you encounter someone like Bryan Clay? The answer is obvious… you encourage him and cheer as he sets, breaks, and achieves world-record status. Cut and ripped like a Greek automaton, Bryan Clay embodies the competitive spirit and demonstrates what focus, discipline, and drive can achieve. Having already secured positions in the upcoming 2012 Olympic decathlon in London, Bryan Clay, winner of multiple gold medals in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, is a motivating and inspiring testament to great results occurring from great efforts. Clay has been declared “The greatest athlete in the world.” His decathlon event is widely considered the most grueling and all-around demanding of all athletic challenges. Despite his moniker, winning isn’t everything to Bryan, who thrives on competition, but admits it’s the best thing he’s found outside of church so far. So I asked how he harnesses the winning edge, and how does he go further than ever before when his body shouts “give up”? “I’m really good at compartmentalizing. I know that when I show up to the track or the gym I have to dump everything else at the gate. There’s only room in my head for one conversation and that’s being my best. In competition, I have to achieve the zone and be so focused that nothing else matters. By keeping everything else separated from training and competition, I am able to push my body beyond what even I thought it could achieve. The instant I let anything else inside, even a single thought, I’ve lost my edge.” So it comes down to the mental game. Clay insists that his winning strategy is in knowing he is good enough to compete in any race.
88 | CSQMag.com
“In the decathlon, especially at the Olympic level, it usually comes down to what one person does right that someone else does wrong, or what someone else does wrong and taking advantage of that moment. This is even true at any level of competition.” When competing at his level, he offers that the winner of the mental game is the winner of most outcomes. Bryan has learned to use anxiety to his advantage by using his workouts as an escape. “I turn up the iPod and I go. I just focus on what matters. It’s just me and the track or the equipment and I like it that way.” And right there is Clay’s key. He masters focus as an asset like a sculptor uses a tool. Not one for meditation, Clay openly admits his biggest challenge has been in knowing where his physical and mental boundaries lie and how to surpass those limits.
The winner of the mental game is the winner of most outcomes. It’s focus that Clay credits for his gold medals and its focus he shares as the missing ingredient in business today. At age 30, Clay’s Olympic days are drawing few. He knows this is likely his last Olympic contention. So when probed about his future, Clay is setting what long term sights he has on the Bryan Clay Foundation, which provides services and support for at-risk youths and single-parent families. His book, tentatively titled “Redemption,” is in the works; he also plans to author a children’s book. Like his passionate pursuit for excellence, Clay is an easy going and matter of fact gentleman whose leadership skills emanate across his practice track. He approaches life the same way he approaches running… one step at a time. Learn more about Bryan online at www.bryanclay.com Michael J. Herman is a best selling author, syndicated columnist, and motivational speaker. www.michaeljherman.com
Living inside the gated country club community of Sherwood would
AS A PLACE TO LIVE, IT’S IN A LEAGUE OF IT’S OWN.
seem to be reward enough. For many who live here, however, it’s only the beginning. It might just be the simple moments – like taking time out to play with your children – that make living here the most rewarding. Of course, the setting is simply stunning and the homes are a testament to craftsmanship. It’s a place where you can touch all the bases and know your values are shared, which is the enduring tradition of Sherwood.
For information about custom homesites and beautifully built new residences offered from the $1,000,000'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
THE GATHERING PLACE IN AGOURA HILLS FOR AN EVENING WITH FRIENDS OR YOUR NEXT CORPORATE EVENT.
Daily & Late Night Happy Hours Menu Featuring Traditional Irish Faire
Open 11:30-2am Daily 30315 Canwood Street - Agoura Hills, CA coming soon MOORPARK LOCATION 818-991-2170 www.pikeyspub.com LOCATION The Reyes Adobe Shopping Center, off the 101 freeway & Reyes Adobe Exit
16 Beers On Tap & Full Bar
15 Flat Screen HD TVS VIP Lounge
WEEKLY SCHEDULE Wednesday Nights Karaoke Thursday “Cheers” Night Friday & Saturday DJ
Dart Boards