September/October 2015
Local Women Share Stories of Inspiration and Success
WHERE WE LIVE
OURSOU T HBAY.CO M
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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015
“Beauty is whatever gives joy.” EDNA ST. VINCENT MILLAY, “BEAUTY AND THE BEAST” PAGE 83
Where We Live 36 Palate
3 wine women to watch
38 Style File
Bangles, bracelets & cuffs
40 Arts
Abstract painter Tricia Strickfaden
42 Block Party
Get to The Point
Features 68 Hail to the Chiefs
72 Visionary Views
Girl power
45 Entrepreneurs
On the Cover:
Manhattan Beach artist Tricia Strickfaden demonstrates her creative process with a painting at her studio. Photographed by Lauren Pressey
Deckopedia and Grades of Green
46 Q&A
Athlete & ambassador Caley Versfelt
48 Weekender
Del Mar getaway
50 Give
Amazing Grace
53 Tips
Lobster pairings
oursouthbay.com
Who’s who around town
Majestic creatures and the Palos Verdes lifestyle inspire this fall’s fashion focus.
92 The Accidental Truth
Manhattan Beach writer Lauri Taylor seeks answers about her mother’s disappearance and learns unexpected truths in the process.
98 You’re the Inspiration
Influential women share stories about others who help make them the person they are.
111 Good Noshing, Vietnam
Our graphic designer eats her way through a delicious foreign adventure.
Also ...
South Bay events calendar
56 Seen
Meet Cassie Jones, a South Bay veterinarian who moonlights as protector of the wildlife in her own backyard.
83 Beauty and the Beast
54 Datebook
A fresh perspective maximizes living space and ocean vistas for a Manhattan Beach family.
79 Mother Nature
44 Media
Local ladies of the Women Presidents’ Organization (WPO) take charge.
116 W omen in Business
Meet dozens of South Bay women keeping it local and lucrative. SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, SOUTHBAY
27
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EDITORIAL
Success Happens Here
Copy Editor | Laura Watts Food & Wine Editor | Bonnie Graves Graphic Designers | Christine Georgiades, Elena Lacey, Michelle Villas CONTRIBUTORS Suzanna Cullen Hamilton, Kelly Dawson, Amber Klinck, Elena Lacey, Tanya Monaghan, Jennie Nunn, Alina Orozco CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Siri Berting, Kremer Johnson, Elena Lacey, Nicole Leone, Michael Neveux, Shane O’Donnell, Monica Orozco, Lauren Pressey ADVERTISING Jared Sayers |
310-502-8262 | jared@moontidemedia.com
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Senior Account Executive | Dale Tiffany | 310-663-4609 | dt@moontidemedia.com Senior Account Executive | Robin Sanders | 818-427-2050 | robin@moontidemedia.com Senior Account Executive | Tom Brazil | 805-538-9986 | tom@moontidemedia.com Account Executive | Candice Stockstell | 312-972-4235 | candice@moontidemedia.com MARKETING & OPERATIONS
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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, SOUTHBAY
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Advertiser Index 23rd Street Jewelers.............................................................................................. 19 Adams & Gimlen Dental Partshp...................................................................132 Adia, LLC.................................................................................................................... 51 Anne St Cyr – Vista Sotheby’s....................................................................... 165 Art310.......................................................................................................................... 14 Avison Young............................................................................................................ 61 Barbi Pappas – Shorewood Realtors.............................................................151 Beach Cities Ortho & Sports........................................................39, C4 insert Blossom Beauty Lounge....................................................................................128 Bluewater Grill......................................................................................................... 63 Brivic Media/Belmont Village............................................................................ 63 Caliber Home Loans............................................................................................175 Cancer Support Community............................................................................ 97 Captain Laura......................................................................................................... 172 Caroline Burke Designs & Assoc.................................................................... 160 Catalina Cooking Store.......................................................................................45 Chad Heitzler Fahlbusch – NW Real Estate...............................................185 Chris Adlam – Vista Sotheby’s....................................................................... 180 Claudia Marroquin – RE/MAX Estate Properties......................................161 Coldwell Banker.....................................................................................................193 Concours D’Elegance............................................................................................10 David A. Bray, Jr., MD............................................................................................. 22 Del Amo Fashion Center.......................................................................... 3, insert Downtown Manhattan Beach Business Assoc.........................................124 Dr. Bita Davoodian............................................................................................... 180 Dr. Brian Boyd.......................................................................................................... 34 Dr. Kristin Egan........................................................................................................ 28 Dr. Mercedeh Baghai.......................................................................................... 159 Dr. Paul’s Immediate Care.................................................................................136 Edler / DeRenzis Group – Vista Sotheby’s................................................. 186 Farmers & Merchants Bank...............................................................................20 Farmers Insurance...............................................................................................157 Fit On Studios....................................................................................................... 168 Floret Cadet.............................................................................................................90 Fred Astaire............................................................................................................. 174 Gee Gee Equine Equestrian Boutique..........................................................178 Good Stuff.............................................................................................................. 109 Gordon Inman Team – Keller Williams........................................................ 190 Gruver Wealth Management of Wells Fargo Advisors............................ 78 Guzman Law Group.............................................................................................122 Halstrom Academy............................................................................................. 109 Harris Financial Advisors, Inc............................................................................45 Haupt Roofing.........................................................................................................90 Houle Law............................................................................................................... 140 Hutchinson Dental.............................................................................................. 156 Idyllwild Arts Academy........................................................................................59 Jan Rhees – The Partners Trust......................................................................170 Jennifer Caras – Vista Sotheby’s................................................................... 148 John Chuka – NW Real Estate........................................................................ 189 Julie Christensen – Vista Sotheby’s............................................................. 164 Keller Williams – Georgiana Rosenkranz.....................................................162 Keller Williams – Jamie Pagliano.................................................................... 177 Kerry Dawson – NW Real Estate Brokers................................................... 166 KKC Fine Homes LLC......................................................................................... 144 Kroger RASC.......................................................................................................... 105 Lauren Forbes – Coldwell Banker...................................................................188 Lauren Pressey........................................................................................................ 82 LDD Longpoint Development Terranea Real Estate............................. 184 Lily Liang – Strand Hill, Christie’s International RE.......................... 66, 182 Lori Herold – Vista Sotheby’s.......................................................................... 149 LuAnn Development.......................................................................................... 130 Malabella Studio...................................................................................................142 Manhattan Dermatology...................................................................................126 Manhattan Pacific Realty..................................................................................187 Marcus Medical Spa........................................................................................... 145 Marmi.........................................................................................................................115 Medawar Fine Jewelers......................................................................................... 11 Michael Fulbright, DDS......................................................................................... 31 Michael Z. Hopkins, DDS....................................................................................147 Michele Brown Real Estate Professionals...................................................192 ModernArtSpa...................................................................................................... 146 Morgan Stanley – Lisa Garey.................................................. C1 insert, 117, 118 Morgan’s Jewelers..............................................................................................9, 17 Moss Adams Wealth Advisors........................................................................... 12 Navigoe, LLC............................................................................................................ 57 Nordstrom................................................................................................................C2 Out of the Box Promotional Marketing........................................................ 173 Out of the Closets.................................................................................................171 {pages} a bookstore............................................................................................167 Pain & Rehab Med Group................................................................................... 24 Palos Verdes Plastic Surgery............................................................................. 25 Patty Sullivan – Vista Sotheby’s.....................................................................152 Paul Martin’s American Grill............................................................................... 18 Penta Water, LLC.................................................................................................... 18 Peter S. Borden, MD.............................................................................................. 43 Physicians Choice Home Health Incorporated....................................... 150 Premier Business Bank................................................................................29, 143 Providence Little Company of Mary..............................................................C4 Providence TrinityCare Hospice......................................................................89 Rachel Ezra – R.E. Acquisitions, Inc.............................................................. 154 Rebecca Foster Design.......................................................................................163 Revive Wellness Center.......................................................................................49 Rick Bender – Shorewood Realtors................................................................191 Rolling Hills Preparatory School........................................................................ 91 SEIA, LLC...................................................................................................................30 Simply Tiles Design Center................................................................................65 Skechers.................................................................................................................... 23 South Bay Plastic Surgeons.............................................................................134 Specialty Doors......................................................................................................65 Summer Orthodontics.......................................................................................153 Sumo Salad............................................................................................................ 110 Teak Warehouse...................................................................................................... 15 Terranea Resort.........................................................................................4, 33, 120 The Aesthetic Center........................................................................................... 55 The Point......................................................................................................................6 Thomasville...............................................................................................................77 Torrance Memorial Medical Center.........................................................21, 107 Trident General Store......................................................................................... 109 Trina Turk.......................................................................................................13, insert Trump National Golf Club.....................................................................................8 Urban Clothes Horse.......................................................................................... 169 Vistamar School.....................................................................................................115 Von Hemert Interiors............................................................................................. 71 Wells Fargo Advisors – Shannon Ryan..........................................................141 Wells Fargo Advisors – Palos Verdes.............................................................158 Ya Ya’s Boutique.....................................................................................................181 Yoga Loft..................................................................................................................182 YORKTOWN Manhattan Beach......................................................................155
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EDITOR’S LETTER
I
Women Who Rock n lieu of my regular letter, I’m giving this page to the ladies who helped make this issue happen … because they are, in a word, awesome. I asked them, “Who inspires you?”
Bonnie Graves, Food & Wine Editor “Grape Goddesses”
Jennie Nunn, Writer “The Accidental Truth”
“My great-great-grandmother Ada Cooley Kartchner successfully delivered and raised 12 children, while running a ranch in Utah where she scandalized the local community by being the first woman to wear jeans.”
“In addition to my three older sisters, my mother, Maureen, is my inspiration. She is my hero and one of the most generous and kind individuals I know.”
Lauren Pressey, Photographer “Visionary Views”
Cherice Tatum, Director of Marketing
“My 91-year-old Cuban grandmother, photographer Sally Mann.”
“Jennifer Erwin, my first boss out of college. She gracefully strikes the balance of being a motivator, a mentor and a close friend I look up to when it comes to anything, really— be it love, career, family and everything in between.”
Amber Klinck, Writer “Mother Nature”
Kelly Dawson, Writer “You’re the Inspiration”
“She’s a wee one, and technically not a woman yet, but I am inspired daily by the fearlessness of my beautiful daughter. She approaches everything and everyone with an open heart and an open mind.”
“When we were growing up I considered her more of a kid sister, but in the past few years my close friend Sara Macdonald has been my inspiration. She’s smart, strong and curious—and she knows how to deliver a hilarious punchline.”
Tanya Monaghan, Stylist “Beauty and the Beast”
Elena Lacey, Writer and Photographer “Good Noshing, Vietnam”
“Mother Teresa inspires me with her infinite capacity for love and kindness. I love her mantra, ‘Intense love doesn’t measure; it just gives.’ My mother is another woman who inspires me for the same reasons.”
“Erin O’Malley, my friend I traveled with to Vietnam, is someone who inspires me because she is the kind of person who climbs mountains in a skirt. Literally.”
Erika Carrion, Account Manager
Monica Orozco, Photographer “The Accidental Truth”
“My mother, my best friend, my rock. A woman driven by love and who gives unconditional love. Always finds the good in people and the positive in every situation, especially in the face of adversity.”
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“Every woman I meet inspires me, so that’s a super tough call. I did, however, shoot a portrait of an amazing woman last year named Wendy Pasinski. She’s the most positive, radiant and beautiful woman I have ever met. Wendy is paralyzed from the waist down but that doesn’t stop her for living her life to the fullest.” oursouthbay.com
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WHERE WE LIVE Inside
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The South Bay welcomes its latest retail and dining destination, The Point in El Segundo. Find out who’s opening shop in this exciting new venue on page 42.
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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, SOUTHBAY
35
WHERE WE LIVE | PALATE
Grape Goddesses 3 Wine Women to Watch WRITTEN BY BONNIE
A
s in many industries, the impact of gender in the wine biz is sensitive, difficult to quantify and tenuous. Has it been harder for women to break into this business? Yes and no. Ladies like the venerable Veuve from Clicquot have been making wine for centuries, although men have more typically dominated the field. Do women intuitively make “better” wine somehow? It is scientifically documented that women are more sensitive to esters, the aromatic compounds in wine. Similarly, a recent Yale study indicated that women have a 35% chance of being
GRAVES
biologically categorized as “super tasters,” those with extra prevalent taste buds, as compared to an average guy’s 15% chance. (We always knew the ladies had great taste.) Does all of this translate to women winning in the winery? In the spirit of our Women’s Issue, we are spotlighting three inspiring winemakers from around the Golden State. Each works with distinct grape varieties and terroir, each is widely respected in the industry, and each happens to be a woman. Do wines made with integrity by passionate women really taste better? We encourage you to seek out these bottles and taste for yourselves.
THE INNOVATOR: Martha Stoumen
There’s an old adage: “If you want to make $1 million in the wine business, all you have to do is invest $10 million.” So what’s an ambitious 31-year-old to do if you don’t have a cool $10 mil but you want to make great juice? Get innovative. Enter Martha Stoumen, a girl who has formed a company called Living Wines Collective, in which she and her three male partners make four distinct wines while sharing all expenses, profits and workload across the brands. Rather than bring in pesky investors who often have cash but zero knowledge of winegrowing and winemaking, this Fantastic Four is doing it all themselves. Their first release was 2014’s Populis, made in a tiny facility in Orinda, California, where you’re more likely to run into cows than critics. Other labels made collaboratively include Les Lunes and Ama. This is a generation of winemakers who like to meticulously farm the grapes they use. Martha and friends are also being innovative by seeking out vineyard treasures like an old-vine, organically-farmed chardonnay plot from 1972 … located in the Manton Valley A.V.A. Haven’t heard of the Manton Valley quite yet? Just granted appellation status in August 2014, it’s at the foot of snowy Mount Lassen and it’s spectacular. Martha is one-to-watch as she and other generationnext winemakers take us to far-flung corners of California with carefully-made, affordable wines. Recommended Bottle: Populis red, Carignane, Mendocino, 2014; $24. popthatbottle.com
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SOUTHBAY, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015
oursouthbay.com
PALATE | WHERE WE LIVE
PHOTOGRAPHED BY TRACY SWEENEY, CORISON WINERY
THE PIONEER: Cathy Corison
A recent retrospective tasting of 25 years of Cathy Corison’s extraordinary cabernets, poured by Cathy herself, had the wine world in a tizzy. In a region known for inflated price tags, alcohol levels and egos, Cathy’s singular style of restrained Napa cab—doggedly and humbly made her way, without regard for fads or scores—is now iconic. Cathy founded her eponymous winery in 1987 after stints making wine at various other wellknown wineries like Chappellet and Freemark Abbey. Her husband built the barn in which she still makes her impressive wines. Her winemaking style is one of minimal intervention. As she puts it: “Mine is a hands-off approach to winemaking; it is my job to let the vineyards speak.” While Cathy’s wines aren’t inexpensive, they’re exceptional values when compared to much-hyped competitors. Her wines particularly demonstrate the distinct profile of the Rutherford and St. Helena districts, where dusty, angular tannins provide the exoskeleton inside of which all that lush cabernet fruit can mature. For those that don’t think Napa wines are as age-worthy as fine Bordeaux, I encourage you to buy and try older vintages of Corison. Recommended Bottle: Corison Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2010; $100. corison.com
THE PARTNER: Bibiana González Rave
A native Colombian whose winemaking career has spanned four continents, Bibiana González Rave ultimately decided to settle in California, where she subsequently met her husband and winemaking partner, Jeff Pisoni. Trained in Bordeaux with a pedigree that includes working at Château Haut-Brion, Bibi has worked harvests around the world and is as fluent in grapes as she is in multiple languages. Here in California, she oversees the winemaking at powerhouse Pahlmeyer while managing consulting services across several brands under the RAVE Vines & Wines mast. She’s also a new mother working multiple harvests, so if you see this lady, by all means buy her a big old cup of coffee and then buy her extraordinary wines. I was personally very excited by Bibi’s newly launched exploration of sauvignon blanc under the Shared Notes label. For too long, American winemakers have left SB to our cost-conscious Kiwi cousins with only a few truly committed to making it great, e.g., Peter Michael, Merry Edwards and Câpture. Shared Notes is a collaborative effort between Bibiana and Jeff, and it’s a partnership in every sense of the word. They make two styles of sauvignon blanc from fruit sourced in the Russian River and Sonoma appellations. My favorite, “Les Leçons de Maitres” (the Masters’ Lessons), adds a 20% dollop of sémillon for one of the most exotic, lush sauvignon blancs I’ve ever tasted from California. Recommended Bottle: Shared Notes, “Les Leçons de Maitres,” Russian River/Sonoma, 2014; $65. sharednoteswine.com
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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, SOUTHBAY
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WHERE WE LIVE | STYLE DEP FILE
1ST ROW Inspiration cuff, $83; Gum Tree in Hermosa Beach, gumtreela.com. Glass bangles with crystals, $27, each; Amaloa in Hermosa Beach, amaloa.com.
Arm Candy Our favorite bracelets, bangles and cuffs about to drop this fall. STYLED BY DARREN
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PHOTOGRAPHED BY MICHAEL
NEVEUX
2ND ROW Chan Luu African opal, crystal and leather bracelet, $233; Manhattan Denim in Manhattan Beach, manhattandenim.com. Beaded bracelet with quartz pendant, $54; Katwalk in Manhattan Beach, shopkatwalk.com. Pink and gold bracelet, $12; Harper & Harlow in Manhattan Beach, shopharperandharlow.com.
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3RD ROW Tuliptree bangle in 14k rose gold fill and Swarovski crystal, $74; Apple Pear Collection, applepearcollection.com. 4TH ROW Beaded bracelets, $26 each; Waverly in MB, waverlyboutique.com. Leather and stone cuff, $88; The Urban Clothes Horse in Redondo Beach, oursouthbay.com urbanclotheshorse.com. ď Ź
WHERE WE LIVE | ARTS
Boldly Abstract Local painter Tricia Strickfaden takes a daring new direction. WRITTEN BY ALINA
OROZCO PRESSEY
PHOTOGRAPHED BY LAUREN
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ARTS | WHERE WE LIVE
G
lancing over the new works crowding Tricia Strickfaden’s small Manhattan Beach studio, it’s clear the series isn’t going to be what anyone expects from the artist. Gone are the mesmerizing landscapes of sleepy South Carolina low country and the serene oceanscapes of the Pacific coast that Tricia has perfected over the last 15 years. In their place, perched on an easel, leaning against walls and carefully centered on the floor are canvases that together comprise the Organic Inspired Series— a strikingly different collection from an artist so long celebrated for oilon-canvas landscapes. The series is of abstract organic forms in mixed media using recycled house paint, dripped and splattered ink, and pastels. In wanting to marry the two genres, Tricia experimented within the same color family as her landscape series. This time around, though, the soothing blues, tranquil greens, calming greys and muted teals transformed into a much more vibrant palette, while somehow still effortlessly echoing the oceanic hues of Tricia’s past work. “This series is a combination of my favorite palettes of my landscapes paintings and interpreting them in organic shapes and forms in an abstract application, yet remaining true to my love of the ocean and our coast,” she explains. While the move might be unexpected for fans, Tricia explains it was a natural transition. “I started as an abstract
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painter years ago, before beginning my landscape series, so I wanted to get back to my original abstract roots.” The strokes are confident, layers complex and the process much more experimental. For landscapes, Tricia often relied on her own photography as inspiration; in this series we see the organic journey of paint on canvas under her direction. Working with a canvas on the floor, a much more physically demanding feat than working from an easel, she spent hours bent over her labor of love, precisely splattering inks and paints. The process is organic, she explains. “You can manipulate it and edit what you want to keep, but paint has a life of its own.” Tricia begins by prep-
ping the canvas with several layers of thick acrylic medium—to provide body
to the piece and to cover the texture of the canvas. Then the artist starts
dripping and splattering ink and watered-down pigments (often the recycled house paint) onto the canvas, spraying water and using roller brushes to create initial shapes on the canvas. Later, once the canvas is dried, she comes back to edit the composition, usually with white paint—keeping what works and painting over what doesn’t. Final touches of dripping ink and pastels or oil sticks help define the organic shapes and areas. Each piece in the series is unique, carefully nurtured into a harmonious masterpiece by the artist. “I repeat this process several times until I am happy with the composition,” says Tricia, and then she quickly admits it’s difficult for her to consider the work truly done. The process is a nod to one of her favorite painters, Jackson Pollock, whose dripped and splattered paintings captured her heart. The complex layering of textures and colors in the new abstract work is an homage to an interior design background, one that undoubtedly has helped Tricia craft art everyone wants to hang in their home. Since starting this series in March, Tricia has already received positive feedback from designers and galleries. On September 25, you may have a chance to take one of the works home, as she will donate a piece to the art310 annual live auction of fine art and photography, proceeds of which will establish a music program for South Bay children. For more information on the live art auction, go to art310.org.
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, SOUTHBAY
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WHERE WE LIVE | BLOCK PARTY
Get to The Point Take a tour of the South Bay’s latest and greatest in outdoor amusements. WRITTEN BY DARREN
T
he Point arrives at a pivotal time for El Segundo. As this little city has proved in recent years, it’s more commercial and family-friendly than ever. With the introduction of this incredible haven—smack on the corner of Rosecrans and Sepulveda—can they pull folks from all over the South Bay? We don’t think so. We know so. Let’s start with one of the most talked about arrivals to the venue: Soul Cycle. Though technically El Segundo, the fast-growing fitness company is branding themselves as Manhattan Beach. No matter the zip code, we’re thrilled to have this high-energy, highly addictive spin party in the South Bay. Other new and notables to the area include eateries Mendocino Farms and Superba Food + Bread, both top-notch purveyors of fresh and
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SOUTHBAY, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015
delicious casual fare and much more. We’re getting hungry just thinking about it. On the retail front, we’re getting hyped about the addition of Madewell, Athleta and Prana, arriving just in time for fall fashion season. There are also a handful of boutique shops, like women’s outfitters Lou & Grey and Kit and Ace. Plus some South Bay favorites are taking their wares north and debuting new storefronts, like Manhattan Beach’s Bella Beach Kids and Michael Stars. For your food fix, don’t miss the Italian flavors of North Italia, healthy options at True Food Kitchen and guilty pleasures at Hopdoddy Burger Bar. The Simms Restaurant Group is also excited to launch Craft Shack, a “casual sibling” to Simmzy’s. Looks like everyone is getting in on the action at The Point. We hope you will too. For more, visit thepointsb.com.
WOMEN’S CLAREMONT TANK $68, Kit and Ace, shop.kitandace.com
FIRST-TIME RIDE $20, Soul Cycle, soul-cycle.com
CURATED 3-COURSE MEAL CELEBRATING THE FARMERS $35, Superba Food + Bread, superbafoodandbread.com oursouthbay.com
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WHERE WE LIVE | MEDIA
Girl POWER THE SECRET GARDEN By Frances Hodgson Burnett Ages 8 to 12 After the death of her parents, Mary Lennox is sent back from India to live in her uncle’s huge, gloomy house on the English moors. Mary is lonely and miserable until she stumbles upon her disabled cousin Colin, hidden away from the world by his troubled father. Together they discover the door to a secret garden and open up a world of freedom and enchantment that they could have never imagined. MATILDA By Roald Dahl Ages 7 to 12 Matilda is a sweet, exceptional young girl, but her parents think she’s just a nuisance. She expects school to be different, but there she has to face Miss Trunchbull—a kid-hating terror of a headmistress. When Matilda is attacked by the Trunchbull, she suddenly discovers she has a remarkable power with which to fight back. It’ll take a superhuman genius to give Miss Trunchbull what she deserves, and Matilda may be just the one to do it.
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Meet a few heroines, both classic and contemporary, certain to inspire kids of all ages. EDITED BY
DARREN ELMS
ROSIE REVERE, ENGINEER By Andrea Beaty and David Roberts Ages 5 to 7 Rosie may seem quiet during the day, but at night she’s a brilliant inventor of gizmos and gadgets who dreams of becoming a great engineer. When her great-great-aunt Rose (Rosie the Riveter) comes for a visit and mentions her one unfinished goal—to fly, Rosie sets to work building a contraption to make her aunt’s dream come true. THE DIARY OF A YOUNG GIRL By Anne Frank Ages 14 to 17 Anne Frank’s The Diary of a Young Girl is among the most enduring documents of the 20th century. Since its publication in 1947, it has been read by tens of millions of people all over the world. It remains a beloved and
deeply admired testament to the indestructible nature of the human spirit. FROM THE NOTEBOOKS OF A MIDDLE SCHOOL PRINCESS By Meg Cabot Ages 8 to 12 Olivia Grace Clarisse Mignonette Harrison is a completely average 12-year-old: average height, average weight, average brown hair of average length, average brown skin and average hazel eyes. One day a limo containing Princess Mia Thermopolis of Genovia pulls up to invite her to New York to finally meet her father, who promptly invites her to come live with him, Mia, Grandmère and her two fabulous poodles. Maybe Olivia Grace Clarisse Mignonette Harrison isn’t so average after all.
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ENTREPRENEURS | WHERE WE LIVE
Playing Her Cards A South Bay mom turns lifestyle choices into a rewarding business.
All
Kitchen. No Kitch.
You don’t need a lot of equipment to cook like a pro, you just need the right equipment. So we carry all the tools chefs recommend most, along with the latest cookbooks, great gifts and gourmet foods.
1915 S. Catalina ave. • the riviera village • (310) 378-4830
B
ased in Manhattan Beach, Deckopedia Publishing is the brainchild of French-born Caroline Chabert Graeff, a former professional snowboarder. Her passion for sports—surfing, yoga, tennis and snowboarding—is equally matched by her love for reading, travel and self-improvement. Always looking to learn, to grow and to inspire others as well, Caroline created Deckopedia, an attractive, easy-to-digest way for time-crunched people to find reliable information on several exciting lifestyle topics, including 50 Ways to Go Green, The Raw Rood Beginner’s Deck, 50 Must-See Destinations and 50 Road Trip Games. This year she partnered with another member of the South Bay community, Grades of Green—an organization dedicated to inspiring and empowering students and the broader school community to care for the environment. Together they’re donating 1% of sales from Deckopedia’s 50 Ways to Go Green to Grades of Green and sharing eco-friendly tips with participating schools and students. “Supporting an organization that changes the ecological footprint of schools around the nation is truly a perfect fit,” Caroline shares. According to Nicole Sevier, who heads up Grades of Green’s Trash Free Lunch Challenge, the partnership is already paying off. “The Challenge encourages LA County schools to reduce lunchtime trash, and the creative and educational content in 50 Ways to Go Green helps our Challenge schools. The deck reinforces not only trash reduction habits but also all eco-friendly habits, helping our Challenge schools mark the 100,000th bag of trash diverted from the landfill.” For more information and to get your own deck, visit deckopedia.com.
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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, SOUTHBAY
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WHERE WE LIVE | Q&A
Hometown Hero Special Olympics World Games Global Messenger and athlete Caley Versfelt proves that teamwork and kindness extend far beyond athletics.
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Q&A | WHERE WE LIVE
Manhattan Beach resident Caley Versfelt, Special Olympics World Games Global Messenger, isn’t exactly your everyday athlete. Just about everything about the 24-year-old who has Down syndrome is unique, even down to the way she was born. “Caley was born in the driveway,” says her mother, Shail, recalling Caley’s quick birth en route to the hospital on June 12, 1991 during a Lakers playoff game. “It
I love Special Olympics because everyone is CHEERING FOR EVERYONE. I also love that it brings happiness and joy. Special Olympics makes me a better me, and it can make you a better you.”
WRITTEN BY
JENNIE NUNN PHOTOGRAPHED BY
MICHAEL NEVEUX
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was very fast, and her dad delivered her in the van. I wasn’t even in the car for 60 seconds, and the car engine wasn’t even on yet.” Throughout her childhood, Caley took up swimming, a sport inspired by her father, and won her first medal at the Special Olympics when she was just 9 years old. “My dad used to be on the swim team when
he was high school, and he motivated me to be on the swim team,” explains Caley, who trains every Sunday at Plunge in Torrance and also plays basketball, volleyball and tennis. “We’re a boating family, and she’s always been on the water—so it was natural for her,” adds Shail. All grown up, the Mira Costa High School graduate and UCLA Pathways Generation Next graduate (a one-year intensive program where she lived in an apartment off-campus and learned independent living skills and social skills) took on the role as World Games Global Messenger 1½ years ago—and hasn’t slowed down since. One of her favorite aspects of her job this year has been public speaking and interviewing athletes and celebrities, including singer Hunter Hayes, Dodgers player Justin Turner and Maria Shriver on the red carpet. She’s even won the Sundown Voice award for her work at Jim Morse Golf. “It makes me happy,” adds Caley. “It’s one of my favorite things, because I like to talk a lot, so it’s perfect.” We caught up with the energetic athlete, who also worked as receptionist in the headquarters for the LA 2015 World Games Organizing Committee this summer (the second largest in Los Angeles since the 1984 Olympic Games) and her mom, for highlights from this year’s games, her favorite hobbies and what
she’s up to now that the games have wrapped up. In addition to sports, what are some of your favorite hobbies? Caley Versfelt: “I’ve always wanted to be an actress since high school, and I joined the local theatre here as well. And last week, I did a commercial for the South Central Los Angeles Regional Center. And I walk a lot, and I walk to Hermosa Beach and back on The Strand. I’m also kind of a photographer … it’s something I like to do. I like to take pictures of nature, and when I get invited to a wedding, I take them there. But my favorite thing is sunsets.” Who’s on your wish list of people to meet? CV: “Keith Urban and Jonas Brothers. I’ve been obsessed with them since middle school, and I’ve always wanted to meet them. There’s a couple of athletes: skateboarder Tony Hawk and soccer player David Beckham. And also the Dallas Cowboys. That’s my dad’s favorite team of all time.” Shail Versfelt: “She also wants to meet Chris Sutter, son of Los Angeles Kings coach Daryl Sutter. They call him the ‘good luck charm,’ and it would be someone fun to do things with. It’s hard to find others with Down syndrome and someone else to hang out with.” What do you love most about Special Olympics World Games? CV: “I think, for me, I love Special Olympics because everyone is
cheering for everyone. I also love that it brings happiness and joy. Special Olympics makes me a better me, and it can make you a better you. It’s true.” SV: “And it feels good to win, but it shows people’s abilities. And I love that it spreads acceptance and inclusion. It’s grown and expanded, and you never age out of it. You can be 80 and still competing. It’s all about inclusion. It’s been great for the whole family.” How do you stay so positive? CV: “My family has supported me through my life, and everyone needs to have some pride. Don’t be ashamed of what other people think of you, and we should all be treated as equals and be treated nicely. This is my favorite. I’m really positive, and I want to share to others that we should all be positive all of the time. I’m thankful for everything, and being part of my family, and I have Down syndrome.” SV: “Caley’s proud to have Down syndrome, and she thinks it’s a gift. She says, ‘I thank God for making me this way,’ and not to be ashamed for who you really are and be open. It’s really fun to see the transition, and her attitude has changed a lot as an adult. And people have accepted her and given her the opportunity to be successful in her own way. It’s about accepting who you are and being proud of it.” Your motto? CV: “Never give up, and dream big.”
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, SOUTHBAY
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WHERE WE LIVE | WEEKENDER
Ain’t It Grand? A special racing season mixed with Mediterranean delights this fall in Del Mar. WRITTEN BY DARREN
ELMS
S
an Diego’s stylish northern neighbor draws racing fans each summer to its famous tracks for special events, great dining and, of course, the ponies. But with last year’s introduction of the Bing Crosby Season in the fall, now there’s more reason to check out the seaside town after the kids go back to school. Gearing up for its second year, the special season named after one of Del Mar’s greatest fans kicks off October 29 and will run well into the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. In addition to the thoroughbreds, expect a lineup of amazing parties, food and drink, and music concerts. Glamorous guests might want to participate in Opening Day’s Vintage Hollywood Fashion Contest—your chance to don duds of another era and compete for nifty prizes. Away from the tracks, another star attraction is the Grand Del Mar. This sprawling resort tucking into the Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve was recently purchased by Fairmont and retains all the Mediterranean splendor. Terra cotta walls and red-striped awnings greet your arrival at the entrance rotunda, your gateway to 249 beautifully appointed rooms, gift shops, a five-star spa, multiple dining options and more. Fairmont Grand Del Mar’s signature restaurant, Addison, features Relais & Châteaux Grand Chef William Bradley’s artisanal approach to cooking, combining local ingredients with contemporary French influences. If you feel like taking the party into the wee hours, the resort is also home to Club M, a popular local nightclub. Mix, mingle and dance the night away with live music and guest DJs every weekend. But save some energy for tomorrow’s daytime activities. Enjoy tennis, the pool and horseback riding on canyon trails. And don’t forget the clubs. With stunning Los Peñasquitos Canyon as his canvas, Tom Fazio created a masterpiece of dramatic elevations, diverse bunkering and lush fairways with The Grand Golf Club. Graced by Pacific breezes from the nearby coast and awash with Southern California glow, the club features San Diego’s only Tom Fazio-designed course. For more on the Bing Crosby Season, visit dmtc.com. To book a reservation at Grand Del Mar, call 858-314-2000 or visit fairmont.com/san-diego.
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RIDING HIGH Clockwise from top left: Horseback riding on the trails of neighboring Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve; the Mediterranean façade of The Fairmont Grand Del Mar; Chef William Bradley in the Addison kitchen; some of the venue’s beautiful dishes ready for service.
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“
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DOESN'T HAVE TO BE PAINFUL. I WANT EACH PROCEDURE TO BE A GREAT EXPERIENCE FOR MY PATIENTS. THAT’S WHY I LOVE TO CREATE NEW PROCEDURES THAT DELIVER MAXIMUM RESULTS AT LOWER COSTS.” Board Certified Cosmetic Surgeon
ALLAN WU, M.D. CTBS, FAACS, FACS
INVENTOR AND INNOVATOR: Dr. Wu has invented and patented, and codeveloped, numerous medical techniques and devices related to cosmetic procedures. These new techniques and medical devices have greatly improved patient results at much lower costs. His surgery innovations have collapsed back-towork recovery time from four weeks to only 2-4 days. His short segment innovations also reduce costs by up to 50% over comparable procedures found elsewhere.
LATEST COSMETIC SURGICAL INNOVATION: Dr. Wu created the Bubble Lift® that produces natural looking results to the upper or mid-face. The Bubble Lift® is a pain free surgery done without general anesthesia. Recovery time is just four days instead of four weeks at about half the cost of a regular lift.
HOBBY: Fly fishing for salmon in the Northwest (and eating the caught salmon, a lot of salmon). You can see Dr. Wu’s bio at: www.revivecenter.com/contact-us/staff/
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www.ReviveCenter.com
WHERE WE LIVE | GIVE
Amazing Grace This pre-teen is up against a challenge … so she took her fight all the way to Washington, D.C. WRITTEN BY KELLY
DAWSON
W
hen Grace Walker was 12 years old, strange things started to happen. She was losing weight. She felt a constant thirst. She always needed to use the bathroom. Grace wasn’t sure how to explain these changes, but her mom had an inclination that turned out to be correct: Grace had type 1 diabetes. This discovery was such a turning point in her life that Grace remembers the exact date– December 19, 2009–and she also recalls what she did when she found out it was true. She sought advice from her big brother, who was also diagnosed with type 1 diabetes as a child. “I learned that you have to be strong about it,” she says about that conversation with her brother, Ryan Walker, who is four years older. “I try to be brave like he is.” More than 1 million Americans may have type 1 diabetes, and it is often diagnosed between childhood and young adulthood. It occurs when a person’s pancreas stops creating insulin, which then prohibits the body from getting energy from food. In the five years since Grace began treating her diabetes, she has learned how to balance bravery with normalcy. She needs to check her blood sugar level throughout the day, so she has to give herself five or six shots before she goes to sleep. She knows when her blood sugar is low, because she feels dizzy and begins to shake. When her blood sugar is high, she feels dehydrated and nauseous. Grace has been constantly aware of her body since the sixth grade, and she says that it can be a challenge. “There are days when I do get it right, but there are also times when I forget to test. It is hard to remember. You don’t get a break from it.”
Some of the kids were able to speak, and IT WAS REALLY COOL TO BE ABLE TO HEAR THEIR STORIES and see what they’ve been able to accomplish while struggling with diabetes.” Although this autoimmune disease can be difficult, Grace finds strength in discuss-
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ing it. This past July, she was selected by JDRF, the largest funder of type 1 diabetes research in the world, to attend the Children’s Congress—a three-day conference in Washington, D.C. While she was there, Grace shared the details of her daily life with senators and representatives alongside 162 other delegates from every state and throughout the world.
school, but through JDRF she’s befriended dozens. She also met with “TID role models,” like Este Haim of the popular pop-rock band Haim, which Brian says empowers kids to still pursue their dreams. But the biggest goal of this event is to give these children the confidence to stick up for themselves and their peers. “Some of the kids were able to speak, and it was really cool to
These meetings led up to a congressional hearing about increasing federal money to continued research and treatments. Grace and the delegates were there to advocate for two bills that would make continuous glucose monitors covered by Medicare for seniors. “When they’re faced with a tough vote for funding a program or looking at positive policy that impacts diabetes, they really do remember these kids who came to visit them in Washington,” says Brian Johnston, the director of grassroots for JDRF advocacy, about legislators who met with the Children’s Congress. The kids have plenty to take away from the visit too. Grace says there are fewer than a handful of kids who have diabetes at her high
be able to hear their stories and see what they’ve been able to accomplish while struggling with diabetes,” Grace says. Grace has many plans for her future—like acting in more plays during her senior year and eventually going to college—but she also wants to carry on the message of support and progress from the Children’s Congress. After all, this lesson wasn’t first taught to her over the summer. She learned it a long time ago from her brother, and her trip to Washington widened her perspective. “He gave me a lot of words of encouragement and he told me what you have to do to live a healthy life,” Grace says. “I think a lot of kids don’t have that, so I would love to do that for them.”
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Cherish Your Elders, No Matter What.
Professional Concierge Caregiver Service for Older Adults www.adiacares.com Tel 310 370 0555
Baker, Burton & Lundy
TRUSTED ADVISORS Behind every successful individual and company, you’ll likely find a trusted advisor— or a team of them. We define them as professional experts who specialize in topnotch client care across a variety of services—from family law to estate planning to insurance claims. In the next issue of Southbay, we’ll introduce you to some of the finest in our community in our annual Trusted Advisors special section.
310.376.7800 | oursouthbay@moontidemedia.com | oursouthbay.com
TIPS | WHERE WE LIVE
Maine Attraction TRUSTED ADVISORS
Bibs ready! Redondo Beach’s 20th annual Lobster Festival is just around the corner. Chef Jessica Jordan of FISHBAR in Manhattan Beach inspires this year’s Lobster Bistro. Here are a few of her favorite beverage pairings for this seafood star.
CIDER: Brooks Dry Cider “Made from a mixture of California grown apples and fermented using Champagne yeast. A well-balanced, crisp and not overly sweet cider with tiny bubbles.”
COCKTAIL: The Ginny Hendrix (available at FISHBAR) “Hendrick’s gin, grapefruit juice and lemon juice topped with sparkling wine. An easy-drinking cocktail that pairs well with shellfish.”
WINE: Campos de Celtas Albariño “Lightweight, crisp acidity ... pairs perfectly with steamed lobster and drawn butter. Making my mouth water as we speak.”
The finest professionals in theSouth Bay
Lobster Festival will take place September 25, 26 and 27 at Redondo Beach’s Seaside Lagoon. For more, visit lobsterfestival.com. oursouthbay.com
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, SOUTHBAY
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WHERE WE LIVE | DATEBOOK
AUTUMN ARRIVAL September 20
Palos Verdes Concours d’Elegance 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Los Verdes Golf Course
The peninsula tradition returns— this year at a new location—and celebrates 100 years of Cadillac, the mastery of “Dutch” Darrin Coachworks and much more. pvconcours.com September 25
Art310
6 to 10 p.m., The Point in El Segundo
The LA25 present their annual live art auction featuring fine art and photography from some of our area’s best. Proceeds will help establish a music program for South Bay children. art310.org
Top: Darrin Coachworks on view at the Concours d’ Elegance. Middle: Al Satterwhite photo for Art310. Below: Tempting gazpacho at PV Pastoral.
October 18
Palos Verdes Pastoral 5 p.m., Terranea Resort
The Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy, in partnership with Terranea Resort and Whole Foods Torrance, will feature California’s best in organic, handcrafted food and wine prepared by executive chef Bernard Ibarra. The event, for 200 guests, will be served under a harvest moon with breathtaking ocean views in the background. pvplc.org September 3–October 10 Via Negativa: The Transcendence of the unReal South Bay Contemporary southbaycontemporary.com
12 13th annual Back to School Chalk Art Festival Noon to 4 p.m., Redondo Beach Pier redondopier.com
18–19 Peace on Wings
2 and 8 p.m., Aratani Theatre, San Pedro jaccc.org
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October 18–October 4 Mary Poppins
6–8 Girls Night Out
25–27 18th annual Redondo Beach Lobster Festival
9 Women’s Wellness Conference
2 and 8 p.m., Norris Theatre norriscenter.com
Comedy & Magic Club cancersupportredondobeach.org
Redondo Beach Pier lobsterfestival.com
Presented by Providence Little Company of Mary Torrance Marriott california.providence.org
Private home in Palos Verdes Estates california.providence.org/trinitycare
8 a.m., Manhattan Beach Pier skechersfriendshipwalk.com
27 Sunday By the Sea Food & Wine Tasting Gala
25 SKECHERS Pier to Pier Friendship Walk
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WHERE WE LIVE | SEEN
Superba Food + Bread
Mendocino Farms
Southbay Summer Issue Party at The Point
Keith Marcus, Stacey Marcus, Brittny Buford, Sloane Sanders, Becky Davison, Mike Wilhite
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SOUTHBAY, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015
PHOTOGRAPHED BY TRACY BRESHEARS
Lizzy Lahiee, Tara Klein, Jean Levy
Southbay magazine celebrated their summer Food Issue release with a first peek at The Point in El Segundo. The all new family-friendly destination was the perfect backdrop for a summer soiree. Guests enjoyed cocktails and indulged on gourmet bites from a collection of restaurants in a Taste of the Point. They also enjoyed classic tunes by our friends at VOXDJs. A special thanks to True Food Kitchen, North Italia, Peet’s Coffee, Mendocino Farms, Sammy’s, Superba Food + Bread, Whole Foods and our partner Choura Events.
Gaye Vancans and Suzanne Sharer
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Investment and Retirement Planning Courses Now Offered in the South Bay! UCLA Extension is now offering personal finance classes taught by top professionals in their field at the brand new Navigoe cafe in Redondo Beach.
Featured this Fall navigoecafe.com
Investing in the 21st Century 9/22—10/13
Enact market-tested strategies Tuesdays, 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Navigoe café, 417 Beryl Street, Redondo Beach
Class sizes are limited!
Planning for a Secure Retirement 10/20–11/10
Generate cash flow for life Tuesdays, 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Navigoe café, 417 Beryl Street, Redondo Beach
cafe@navigoe.com
WHERE WE LIVE | SEEN
Tour of the Villas
Terranea Resort invited guests to tour the new market-designed Villa created by South Bay designer Christine Stahlberg and Showcase Villa by California designer Barclay Butera.
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SEEN | WHERE WE LIVE
South Bay Girls Day Out This fun-filled day like no other featured pampering stations, brand booths with shopping, a fashion runway show and, of course, Champagne and small bites. This was the ultimate girls day, celebrating the strength and spirit of the women of Village Care International.
South Bay Pain Docs and SkinWorks Med Spa
VIP section designed by Vinis Party Rentals
MB Fire stops by.
PHOTOGRAPHED BY RICHARD PODGURSKI
Kandy Kiss
The girls from BLND PR
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, SOUTHBAY
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WHERE WE LIVE | SEEN
White Light White Night 2015
PHOTOGRAPHED BY TRACY BRESHEARS
This night to remember featured a live musical performance by Super Diamond (Neil Diamond tribute band), the decadent “Taste of Los Angeles” with samplings from local restaurants, silent and live auctions and special signature cocktails and wine. Funds raised from the evening will go toward providing free-of-charge mentoring and support services to children of parents or siblings with cancer.
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SEEN | WHERE WE LIVE
A Heritage of Thanks
Torrance Memorial Heritage Society members and donors who have made a contribution for 10 or more consecutive years were acknowledged and appreciated at a luncheon at the Palos Verdes Golf Club. Members are those who have included Torrance Memorial with a future gift in their estate plan.
Sea air can do wonders for a company’s creative juices.
Craig Leach, Richard Lundquist, Melanie Lundquist, Laura Schenasi, Jonathan Chute
René Scribe, Phyllis Scribe, Carolyn Snyder
Introducing Topaz on the San Pedro waterfront. Distinctively cool, on so many levels. Amazing water views from every floor. Plenty of places nearby to eat, meet and greet. Decked out. Teched up. And just a little visionary. Call today. And get that creativity flowing.
DISCOVER THE WATERFRONT BUSINESS ADDRESS
PHOTOGRAPHED BY DEIDRE DAVIDSON
FOR CREATIVE MINDS. Leasing: CBRE Dave Smith, Mike Harry, Tim Vaughan Phone: +1 310 363 4980 Email: mike.harry@cbre.com Dick Chun, Nancy Peterson, Stephen Connors, Sandy VandenBerge
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www.topazsanpedro.com 222 West Sixth Street, San Pedro, CA 90731
NEW SAN PEDRO LOCATION
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WHERE WE LIVE | SEEN
Evening Under the Stars 29th annual Gourmet Food & Wine Festival More than 500 guests attended the 29th annual Honda Evening Under the Stars, generating proceeds of $100,000 to help pave the way for nonprofit Torrance Memorial Medical Center’s upcoming renovation to its North Tower to benefit women’s and pediatric services. The event offered a performance by Grammywinning vocalist Peabo Bryson, as well as samplings of the South Bay’s best cuisine and more than 80 varietals of wine.
Kirsten Wagner DDS, Rick Rounsavelle, DDS, Karla Burns, Brett Dillenberg
Brenda Nowatka, Priscilla Hunt, Peabo Bryson, Steve Morikawa
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Jackie Geiger and Greg Geiger
PHOTOGRAPHED BY DEIDRE DAVIDSON
Stanley Chang, MD, Brian Miura, MD, Son Nguyen, MD, Tiffany Trinh, MD, Jessica Tsai, DDS, Tonny Lee MD
Dave Klein, Barbara Lurie, Mark Lurie, MD, Song Klein, Craig Leach, Judy Leach, Eve Higgins, Rick Higgins
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SEEN | WHERE WE LIVE
Wine Debut
Bluewater Grill celebrated the launch of Brandi Glanville’s Unfiltered Blonde. The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star was on hand to meet fans and sign bottles of her Sonoma County chardonnay.
Juan Munguia, Brandi and guest
Lunch ~ Dinner ~ Happy Hour Sunday Brunch ~ Private Rooms
665 N Harbor Drive · Redondo Beach, CA 90277 www.bluewatergrill.com · (310) 318-3474
Celebrating the Golden Age Belmont Village residents enjoy exceptional hospitality, luxurious amenities and premier programs for health and wellness. Senior Living has never looked better! Chef Nick Padilla and team
belmontvillage.com Encino (818) 788-8870 Burbank (818) 972-2405 Hollywood Hills (323) 874-7711 Rancho Palos Verdes (310) 377-9977 Thousand Oaks (805) 496-9301 Westwood (310) 475-7501 Winner of the George Mason University Healthcare Award for the Circle of Friends© memory program for Mild Cognitive Impairment. Provider to the NFL Player Care Plan. Diane Corradi, Bria Petriella, Brandi Glanville, Jenny Drager, Jillian Ailes
RCFE Lic 197608468, 197608466, 197608467, 198601646, 565801746, 197608291 © 2015 Belmont Village, L.P.
Southbay_2_2015_golden.indd 1 oursouthbay.com
1/20/15 10:23 AM SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, SOUTHBAY
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4th annual Food, Wine and Music
This afternoon fundraiser of music and tasting at Tin Roof Bistro benefited the Neptunian Woman’s Club philanthropic and scholarship programs. Sponsored by Tin Roof, The Vintage Shoppe, Strand Brewing Co., Corner Bakery, Manhattan Village and Plaza Bank.
Jessie Kozar
Elaine Turner and Linda Dondero
Dave Salzer, Kim Salzer, Meg Bruno, Kashi Cormier Walmer, Bob McDaniel, Suzanne Sharer
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Linda Merlo and Linda Leroy
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PHOTOGRAPHED BY TRACY BRESHEARS
Kim White, Dave Miller, Kristie Halls
SEEN | WHERE WE LIVE
Sunset Serenade
Rainbow Services celebrated more than 30 years of providing shelter for families broken by domestic violence at its annual fundraiser in Palos Verdes.
Dana Brooks, Twanna Rogers, Tim Rogers, Carey Romer, Ben Schirmer
Mary Jo and Victor Hazard
Kitchen & Bathroom Specialist Fine Ceramics
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Natural Stone
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Hardwoods
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Cabinetry
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Faucetry
3968 Pacific Coast Hwy. Torrance • (310) 373-7781 • www.simplytiles.com License #904876
Andrew Winner and Denise Winner
PHOTOGRAPHED BY AMANDA MEEK
Charlie Masso and Mary Masso
Pris Schultz and Roger Schultz with Chef Shafer
ICONIC SLIDING DOOR HARDWARE Barn Door Hardware | Library Ladders | Accordion Doors
Louise Davis and Karen Cutler
SPECIALTY DOORS | 310-648-7601
SOUTH BAY SHOWROOM 2609 Manhattan Beach Blvd | Redondo Beach, CA 90278 | 7am — 4pm Weekdays
barndoorhardware.com | specialtydoors.com Alison Cool
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Some of the most DESIRABLE properties on the West Coast are right here in PALOS VERDES!
欢迎来到 PALOS VERDES! Lily Liang, a Peninsula resident for more than 30 years, is the Executive Vice President of the newly formed boutique firm, “Strand Hill Properties”. Strand Hill is an affiliate of the Christie’s International Real Estate network and works closely with Christie’s Auction house. Lily brings a wealth of experience to one of the most prestigious real estate networks in the world. She has represented both sellers and buyers from across the globe. Lily has lived and traveled through Asia and Europe. She speaks Mandarin and embraces diversity. Her professionalism, sincerity, honesty, pleasant presentation and hard work have earned her an outstanding reputation throughout the industry.
Executive Vice President, Strand Hill Properties, Christie’s International Real Estate Society of Excellence, Associate Broker Certified Architectural Specialist •
Top 250 USA
•
A top agent year after year in high end home sales from 1981
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Average sales price over $2 million
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Over 30 years real estate experience
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Nearly $1 Billion in transactions
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Certified Investment Specialist
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Certified Relocation Specialist
• With International connections, serving clients from Europe, Asia & USA. •
Vice President, Marketing & Senior Investment Consultant
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EMBA Pepperdine University-Finance/Marketing
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Interior Design Consultant
Professional honor and local affiliations: •
Named “Business Woman of the Year” by South Bay Chinese Women’s Association
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Board Member of Asia America Symphony Association
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Board Member of LA BioMed
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Sponsor for many local organizations.
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Featured or Mega agent in Time Magazine, Fortune Magazine, Los Angeles Magazine, LA Times, Daily Breeze, Peninsula News
LILY LIANG (310) 373-3333 lily@lilyliang.com www.lilyliang.com Cal BRE# 00837794
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HAIL TO
THE CHIEFS Take the lead of these South Bay members of the Women Presidents’ Organization. They mean business. WRITTEN BY AMBER
KLINCK JOHNSON HAIR AND MAKEUP BY LESLIE RODRIGUEZ PHOTOGRAPHED BY KREMER
LADIES WHO POWER LUNCH Clockwise from top left: Vicki Unger, Jill De Forest, Sheryl Rooker, Jill Albert, Olivia Roth
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Hail to the Chiefs
IT’S
immediately clear how collectively influential the six South Bay members of the Women Presidents’ Organization (WPO) are to one another, and how their shared experiences help evolve their businesses. A nonprofit organization founded in 1997 by Dr. Marsha Firestone, WPO brings together entrepreneurial women looking to take their businesses to greater heights through the wisdom and support of their peers. Internationally, WPO member businesses generate $24 million in average annual revenue and $1.9 billion in aggregate total revenue, employing in the aggregate 9,264 people. “It’s about members taking part in professionally-facilitated peer learning groups, conducted in a proprietary roundtable format, to accelerate the growth of their businesses,” explains Vicki Unger, Senior Vice President - Investments of The Kopitz Unger Group of Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC. As the chair of two WPO chapters, a business owner, wife and mother of three, Vicki—like all her fellow members—possesses a unique blend of capability and tenacity … a powerful combination that enables these women to do it all and do it well. “I’m always amazed how resilient women are,” says Vicki, adding that the members of her WPO chapters “are women who have a big impact on the economy in California.” “It’s fun … hiring people, creating jobs. It’s a really fun thing to do,” explains Nancy Rohman, cofounder, president and chief financial officer of 3PL Central. With 44 employees, Nancy runs a software company based in Manhattan Beach specializing in cloud-based warehouse management. When asked what drew the two-year member to WPO, Nancy explains, “I like business, and I’m a big supporter of women.” As a business owner and mother of three, however, finding the time to commit to WPO was a challenge, but it’s been worth it. “When you’re running a company, you’ve often got your head down, working on your own thing. But when you step out and sit around a table of 19 other business owners with different perspectives, it’s rich and it’s interesting. It gives you a little bit more clarity.” “The women are smart, accomplished, incredible. We’re all very different. We are in non-competing industries and we are willing and able to share our experiences to help each other achieve greater success,” explains Jill Albert, president of Direct Results. As a member of WPO for more than four years, Jill has found camaraderie with her fellow
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members. “When you’re alone running a business, it’s different than when you work for a company with all of your colleagues. There is a tremendous amount of alliance in working with these women from WPO.” Ironically, WPO membership was not initially in Jill’s plan. “I went in kicking and screaming. I’m very independent. I’m not what I would consider a joiner, but it’s been fantastic.” Olivia Roth, owner and chief financial officer of Max Industries, Inc., however, was actively looking for the right organization. “I didn’t want to join a networking group, that’s not what I was looking for. I was really looking to find an organization whose members are successful entrepreneurial women, like myself, running their own companies and sharing their business expertise and experience.”
try. “I always knew that I wanted to work; I knew that about myself.” But it’s what she takes away from her WPO peers that has kept her a member for more than four years. “There’s a lot of wisdom, everyone is in different points of their careers, and we have some really great people in our group.” Those great people include South Bay local and five-year WPO member and president of De Forest Search Partners, Jill De Forest. A self-proclaimed “serial entrepreneur,” Jill opened her first employment agency, Sawyer & Associates Personnel Service, when she was 26. Within five years the company grew into a $6.5 million business with four offices and 65 employees. As a wife and mother of three, Jill responds to whether or not she maintains
With only four months as a WPO member, Olivia is the newbie of the group, but her experience with WPO has already proved incredibly rewarding. “I have learned so much during the time that I’ve been a WPO member, and I’ve implemented many of those concepts. We exchange ideas and encourage and mentor one another. I feel empowered.” For Sheryl Rooker, president of PeopleWare Staffing, it comes down to perspective. “We’re all entrepreneurs entrenched in our day-to-day minutia. [WPO] helps us see the bigger picture.” After eight years of working for someone else, and with the urging of her husband and PeopleWare co-owner, Sheryl started her own business in 1993 in the staffing indus-
a work/life balance with, “Work and family gives my life balance”—a sentiment that seems befitting of anyone balancing his or her personal and professional lives … which Jill is. Her company is about to celebrate its 20 th anniversary. Through WPO, each of these incredible women has been able to access one another as resources for guidance and inspiration in a confidential, non-competitive environment. They’ve been able to learn from each other’s experiences and talk openly about navigating through professional obstacles with women who understand the challenges that come with owning their own business. In Vicki Unger’s words, “This is part of my continuing education.” And it’s priceless.
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VISIONARY
Views A fresh perspective maximizes living space and ocean vistas for a Manhattan Beach family. WRITTEN BY
SUZANNA CULLEN HAMILTON PHOTOGRAPHED BY
LAUREN PRESSEY
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Visionary Views
Seeking a fresh perspective often requires physically moving, or at least seeking the guidance of someone from farther afield whose perspective is different from ours. When Stephanie and Joe Paunovich decided to build a home, they moved from West Hollywood to the South Bay and hired an architect from Pacific Palisades. The result is a sleek, contemporary house in Manhattan Beach with a refreshing take on the prototypical floor plan of most Sand Section homes.
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“We were ready to start a family and felt like Manhattan Beach was the right place for us, so we began the process of trying to find the right location to build our new home,” says Stephanie. However, what they perceived to be a short process evolved into a three-year project during which Stephanie had two children. “I was so consumed with the kids that Joe was responsible for most of the design decisions with the house,” she continues. Having previously considered homes in
other areas of Los Angeles, Joe was familiar with various architectural styles and architects. “As soon as I saw a home in the city designed by Bruce Bolander, I knew he was the architect for us,” he says. Although Joe and Stephanie had ideas for what they wanted in a South Bay home, they couldn’t proceed with specific plans until they purchased the lot. “That process took a bit longer than we anticipated, but we ended up with a fantastic location,” says
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Visionary Views
Joe. Working with The (W)orkshop team including Brent Coert, Alex Ocampo and Scott Martin, Joe found a group that shared his vision. Perched off The Strand so that it’s a short walk to the beach but far enough back to have a great view, the Paunovich home is similar to many newly constructed homes in the area. The concrete, wood and glass structure resembles the other contemporary homes in its modernity and shape. Maximizing the lot means that there’s almost no yard other than a strip of grass and a tiny triangle sandbox for their two young children. However, the space inside is very different from most other homes in the area and provides multiple living areas. The steep lot has the benefit of affording a ground floor with plenty of natural daylight. High ceilings, large windows and white walls further add to the airy feeling of the ground floor. Unlike most homes in the area that use the ground floor as a media room, guest bedroom or library, Bruce Bolander placed all of the bedrooms downstairs. While it might seem unconventional for the front door to open into a foyer near the bedrooms, this simple floor plan change affords the family far more living space upstairs. Bright pops of orange and blue in the children’s rooms infuse the otherwise grey-and-white color palette found throughout the house. Stephanie has incorporated a mix of high and low price points in the children’s rooms, where IKEA and custom elements combine for creative solutions. All of the bedrooms are ample in size, where calm, modern interiors create a soothing environment. Although the house is minimal in aesthetics, the use of similar materials throughout the house—combined with clean lines—creates continuity. A custom, steel-forged staircase railing visually links all of the levels of the house. Beautiful wide-plank, oiled-finished flooring used throughout the house seems to float on the suspended stair treads. The blend of rugged steel with the floating stair treads creates a gutsy but artistic architectural statement. When viewed up close, the stairs and railing are as sculptural as they are functional. Lest all of this appear simple in
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Visionary Views
terms of a visual aesthetic, the truth is that it required incredible precision and attention to detail. “It was an engineering feat to accomplish the stair railings, but The (W)orkshop understood my passion for this complicated element and they made it happen,” says Joe. The second floor of the house is one open living area comprised of the kitchen, family room, dining room and a second seating area. The walls of glass doors and windows offer tremendous views of ocean. Uncomplicated white draperies float in the wind and frame the view in a refreshing way. Joe designed the custom oval dining table, and it fits the area perfectly. The size and shape make it as comfortable for four as it is for 14. Surrounded by Danish-influenced armchairs with a large chandelier floating above, it creates a pared-down but inviting area. The third floor of the house consists of a large living room, a linear office and a huge deck with spectacular ocean views. “Although originally conceived as my husband’s man cave, it’s probably going to be the place where the kids hang out,” says Stephanie of the completely open living area. The deck is so large that it can accommodate play areas for the children as well as areas for dining and lounging. Once the retractable glass walls are open, the third floor is one fabulous, large uninterrupted living room. As the Paunovich family continues to grow, so too will the interior design elements of their house. By creating a floor plan that maximizes the living areas and views, as well as investing in painstaking steps to create detailed architectural elements, the bones of the house are clearly defined. “This house has been a labor of love, but we’re very happy with the modern, windswept feeling it evokes,” says Joe. As is often the case, a new perspective offers creative solutions. Stephanie and Joe Paunovich have created a fresh floor plan filled with light and quality, custom-crafted elements that provide a beautiful canvas of opportunity for design.
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COLLABORATORS:
Bruce Bolander, architect; Brent Coert, Alex Ocampo and Scott Martin, The (W)orkshop, contractors and project management
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MOTHER NATURE WRITTEN BY AMBER
KLINCK PRESSEY
PHOTOGRAPHED BY LAUREN
Meet a South Bay veterinarian who moonlights as protector of the wildlife in her own backyard.
I
n the backyard of Cassie Jones’ lovely home located in the hills of Rancho Palos Verdes sits a generous fig tree, abundant with a seemingly endless supply of perfectly ripe fruit. Cassie, who sits on the board of directors as the executive vice president of the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy (PVPLC), graciously offers her figs to houseguests as well as clever neighborhood critters. Cassie’s homegrown fruits have even made an appearance at one of the PVPLC’s popular Pastoral events.
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Mother Nature
This year’s Pastoral event, which takes place on Sunday, October 18 at Terranea Resort, “is a fundraiser and a friend-raiser in celebration of preserving the land on the peninsula,” Cassie explains. The 200-person outdoor dinner—“that Terranea has been gracious enough to sponsor,” Cassie adds—will serve food donated by the Torrance Whole Foods Market and prepared by Terranea’s executive chef, Bernard Ibarra. Patrons of the dinner will also enjoy an assortment of locally grown wines. Originally founded by Bill Ailor in 1988, the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy is committed to maintaining the preservation of untouched open spaces and native wildlife. In cooperation with the cities of Rancho Palos Verdes, Rolling Hills, Rolling Hills Estates and San Pedro, the PVPLC manages 1,600 acres of land located on the
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Palos Verdes Peninsula. With roughly 25 years as a member—four of those years as a board member—Cassie’s involvement with the organization was initially inspired by her own innate appreciation for the outdoors and a desire to preserve the open spaces she loves. “Throughout Southern California we’re seeing more traffic, more congestion and more people—which is one of the reasons I’ve been so involved with the PVPLC,” Cassie says. “I like preserving open space for future generations to enjoy. If we can keep the hills green and full of [their native] animals, that’s best for us all.” Of course preserving open spaces in Southern California doesn’t come without its own set of challenges. “At different times there are different problems,” Cassie explains. “Initially we had to acquire the
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Mother Nature
land, but now we have the responsibility of managing it.” Which often means managing how people are enjoying the space. “Keeping people on trails that sometimes no longer look like trails is a challenge,” she continues. And the conditions caused by the drought have not helped. “It’s been really bleak out there because it’s been so dry,” she explains. “But that’s the beauty and the benefit of the native plants that we’re planting … they can survive the droughts and with the next rain expand and blossom. It’s going to be gorgeous.” Until then, what may look like a sparse piece of land could actually be an area with potential new growth under the soil—an important thing to remember when hiking with kids, dogs or while riding horses. “Dogs love to be off-leash, but there are problems with that,” Cassie notes. Not only could they injure themselves, they could also scare the native animals as well as “beneficial bugs, snakes and butterflies,” she explains. “Keeping them on the leash is best.” Now would probably be a good time to mention that this advice is not only coming from a PVPLC ambassador but from your local vet. As the owner of the Point Vicente Animal Hospital, Cassie has been a doctor of veterinary medicine since 1988, with her own clinic since 2001. “I never thought I would own my own practice,” Cassie notes. “I was living in the South Bay and working in Santa Monica—you can imagine the traffic—and I kept driving by this closed animal hospital. At one point I thought, ‘If you worked here, you’d be at work by now.’”
It’s been really bleak out there because it’s been so dry. But that’s the beauty and the benefit of the native plants that we’re planting … they can survive the droughts and with the next rain expand and blossom. IT’S GOING TO BE GORGEOUS.”
After reopening the closed animal hospital in 2001 and transitioning the space into her own clinic, many of the patients from the previous hospital returned. Cassie went from being the only vet to being one of four with a staff of 25. In 2011 Cassie and her team moved their practice from their original Rancho Palos Verdes location. “We built our own building,” she says, which is now located on Palos Verdes Drive West. There, Cassie and her team treat a variety of animals including snakes, birds, rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters. “My motto, and people always laugh when I say this, is no horses, no monkeys and no venomous snakes,” Cassie says. “I’ve even treated a few bugs and a fish or two, but mostly dogs and cats.” When asked if she brings her work home with her, Cassie laughs and says, “My husband would probably say I bring it home sometimes,” which in Cassie’s case may mean bringing home an animal or two. Currently Cassie’s household includes two cats named Miller Moth and Flea and two tortoises named Pyramus and Thisbe. Flea, whom she describes as her “little black kitty who hops like a flea,” and Miller Moth were named by Cassie, but Pryamus and Thisbe had their names before taking up residence with the good
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doctor. “They’re older than I am. They belonged to a client who was in her 80s with kids in their 60s. She wanted them to go to someone younger because they live a long time, and I was in my 30s,” Cassie explains. The California desert tortoises, which are a protected species, “are registered,” Cassie notes. “You’re not supposed to take them out of the wild, but they were born in captivity years ago.” Today they live a happy little life among the native plants and well-tended garden veggies growing throughout Cassie’s yard. As a wife, doting animal lover and the owner of a growing business, it’s hard to imagine how Cassie finds the time to participate with the PVPLC, especially at the level she does. Initially, as a member, it was about “giving support, showing up and helping to pull weeds,” Cassie says. “You can be a financial supporter too, donating money—that’s always important. But time is money too. The volunteers put in an incredible amount of hours, and it’s very valuable to us.” In regard to her transition from a member to a board member, Cassie says it all came down to a simple request. “I was asked,” she explains. “I was always a supporter, and finally someone asked me if I’d like to be a board member. I think that’s what it takes. You have to ask … you’d be surprised who says yes.” With 15 current members, the PVPLC board meets throughout the year, with committee meetings throughout the month. But in addition to their contributions to the organization through their work on the board, “behind the scenes many of the members are also accountants or attorneys who have put in a lot of pro bono time,” says Cassie. “We don’t rely on that,” she continues, but it’s good to have. “We’ve also had members in the education field who have helped us with our Third-Grade Naturalist Program,” Cassie adds. The 20-year program, as described by pvplc.org, is a “four-part, in-class educational unit covering local ecology, native plants, geology, history, Native American culture, mammals, reptiles, birds and insects.” Through awareness and appreciation, kids learn to responsibly enjoy and preserve their natural environments—an invaluable lesson for future generations. In addition to the Third-Grade Naturalist Program, there are many ways one can participate as a volunteer for the PVPLC, including joining the Trail Crew, working at the San Pedro Native Plant Nursery, or as an Adopt-a-Plot volunteer. In exchange, volunteers are “able to enjoy the preserve by leading a nature hike or growing plants in the nursery,” Cassie says. “For some people it becomes a great hobby, even a great passion.” Strolling around Cassie’s property, it’s clear to see how her passion and dedication to the PVPLC reflect on her own surroundings. With a front yard filled with 95% indigenous plants, pulling up to Cassie’s house is like getting a firsthand look at the beauty and benefit of landscaping with native vegetation. “They reduce your water use and attract butterflies and birds,” she notes. And it’s a landscaping method that’s growing in popularity. “As you drive around the neighborhood, you see that people are taking out their grass. Also native plant sales are on the rise.” As for the house itself, each large window in the main living space boasts incredible views. The entrance and walkways are bright and airy, and art is found on every wall—including a number of pieces donated by local artists and purchased by Cassie at PVPLC fundraising events. The overall feel of the home is welcoming and unique. “We’ve done a lot to the house, but just a step at a time,” Cassie says, “You have to have a vision.” Right now, Cassie’s vision is focused on October’s upcoming Pastoral, continuing the quality care given to her patients at the Point Vicente Animal Hospital and enjoying her own preserved sanctuary on the Portuguese Bend.
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AND THE
Majestic creatures and the Palos Verdes lifestyle inspire this fall's fashion focus. STYLED BY TANYA
MONAGHAN JOHNSON HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ANDRIA FARRELL PHOTOGRAPHED BY KREMER
SPECIAL THANKS TO STEFANIE AT WILHELMINA, JIM MOORE AT COWBOY BOOT CAMP (COWBOYBOOTCAMP.NET) AND JOSÉ AND ELI ARENCIBIA OF RANCHO LOS PRIMOS IN ROLLING HILLS ESTATES
Beauty and the Beast
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Beauty and the Beast
PREVIOUS PAGE: Ikat print shirt by Tolani, $174; 3rd Gallery in Manhattan Beach. Hat by Brooklyn Hat Company $56, crystal necklace on black leather by Frasier Sterling, $126; both at The Beehive in Manhattan Beach. Beaded skinny scarf by Chan Luu, $46; Gum Tree in Hermosa Beach. Pieced vegan leather skinny pants, $188; Free People in Manhattan Beach. Double buckle belt by Stillwater, $241; Blvd. in Manhattan Beach. THIS PAGE (L): Ivory shirt by Pomandere, $268; Wright’s in Manhattan Beach. Beaded bolero by Cleobella, $290; The Urban Clothes Horse in Redondo Beach. Flare jeans by McGuire, $235; Manhattan Denim in Manhattan Beach. Hipster belt by Bed Stu, $98, booties by Vince Camuto, $160; both at Details in Hermosa Beach. Gold fill screw bracelets by Miansai, $200; The Beehive in Manhattan Beach. Gold midi rings by Miranda Frye, $28 to $63 each; Blvd. Beaded tassle necklace by CLP, $202; Gum Tree. THIS PAGE (R): Black leather fringe jacket by My Tribe, $438; 3rd Gallery. Gold midi rings by Miranda Fry, $28 to $63 each; Blvd. Necklace, $188; Gum Tree. Mock suede pants by Karen Kane, $99; black boots by Bed Stu, $295; both available at The Urban Clothes Horse.
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Black jacket, $550, and black pants by Rag & Bone, $396, ivory shirt by Ulla Johnson, $288; all available at Wright’s in Manhattan Beach. Bow tie bolo necklace, $48; Free People. Black felt fedora with paisley ribbon by Hat Attack, $98; Gum Tree. Boots by Seychelles, $165; Details.
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Off-the-shoulder peasant top by Lovers + Friends, $75, weekender bag by Cleobella, $158; both at Beach & Beverly in Hermosa Beach. Pants by Sanctuary, $89, gold chain bracelet, $92, and black tourmaline ring, $350, both by Elizabeth Goziak; all at 3rd Gallery. Fringe leather jacket by Cleobella, $680; The Urban Clothes Horse. Boots by Seychelles, $165; Details. Shorter necklace by Renee Garvey, $147, longer gold tassel necklace by Marisa Mason, $53; both at Gum Tree. Gold midi rings by Miranda Frye, $28 to $63 each; Blvd. in Manhattan Beach. Nine bezel diamond ear crawler, $825 and diamond ear cuff, $500; both by local Manhattan Beach designer Rock and Gems, rockandgemsjewelry.com.
Beauty and the Beast
Fringe jacket by Cleobella, $680; The Urban Clothes Horse. Dress by For Love & Lemons, $469; Blvd. Gold and silver choker by Marie Laure Chamorel, $480; Wright’s. Gold wrap bracelet by She.Rise, $99; beaded bracelet by Chan Luu $78; both available at Gum Tree. Gold midi rings by Miranda Fry, $28 to $63 each; Blvd. Booties by Vince Camuto, $160; Details.
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Providence Little
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Women’s Wellness Conference
Benefiting Women and Children’s Health Services at Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Presented by
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015 • 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM Torrance Marriott Hotel 3635 Fashion Way Torrance, CA 90503
KATHY BATES, KEYNOTE SPEAKER Kathy Bates is a multi-award winning actor and director. Among her accolades are an Academy Award®, two Golden Globes® and two Emmy® awards. Her frank and funny talk, Blind-Sided: When Cancer Comes Calling, encourages audiences to face cancer with candor, which she hopes will lead to greater awareness, earlier diagnosis and treatment.
Join us for an inspirational and educational day focused on the health and well-being of a woman’s body, mind and spirit. The conference also features a unique shopping opportunity bringing together the community’s best artisans for a pop-up boutique! Tickets $250 • Sponsorship Opportunities $1,000+ California.Providence.org/PLCMevents Win a Acura RDX! Raffle tickets $25 or 5 for $100 Drawing to take place at the conference. Winner need not be present to win.
Donated by:
For more info, please contact Katie Moe, Special Events Manager, (310) 303-5350 or katherine.moe@providence.org.
Our Mission: As people of Providence, we reveal God’s love for all, especially the poor and vulnerable, through our compassionate service.
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Two great schools, one vibrant community!
Rolling Hills Prep Grades 6-12
Grades 5-12
Rolling Hills Prep prides itself on being a forwardlooking, academically rigorous college-prep school with a soul. Renaissance School believes that bright students who learn differently can rise to great heights when they become empowered and confident.
Tours offered daily. Call 310-791-1101. One Rolling Hills Prep Way San Pedro, CA 90732 rollinghillsprep.org | renaissancesas.org
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the
ACCIDENTAL TRUTH With a newly released book, a Manhattan Beach native delves deep into uncovering the real story behind her mother’s disappearance and death … and discovers a lot about herself along the way. WRITTEN BY JENNIE
NUNN OROZCO ILLUSTRATED BY CHRISTINE GEORGIADES PHOTOGRAPHED BY MONICA
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“Over the last four years I had faced down many fears, but none as big as the one I was staring at now: the truth. And it was nearly unbearable because I was completely responsible for it. Because of me, because I couldn’t let it go, because I needed to prove that I was not to blame, because I was suffocating in guilt and shame, my family would be saddled with this forever… Was this life’s cruelest lesson or most profound? I had frantically searched for the truth, but it wasn’t the truth I wanted.”
— The Accidental Truth
The Accidental Truth
early nine years ago, Jane Kling—mother of Manhattan Beach native Lauri Taylor and her three older sisters, Sherri, Debbie and Kim—vanished without a trace. Jane, who grew up in Pennsylvania and lived in Vista, California, managed two consignment stores before she went missing in San Felipe, in Baja, California. Her story and apparent murder case were the subject of several headlines and news stories, and it became Lauri’s four-year mission to find the real answers behind that lifechanging day in March 2006. Jane’s bed at home hadn’t been made, and her two dogs were left behind unattended. All they had were clues: a border crossing video (at the furthest border from her home), their mother’s green minivan, a hotel clerk who remembered her (accompanied by another mysterious woman)—all followed by autopsy reports and conclusions that Jane had in fact been murdered. But perhaps one of the hardest factors was that Lauri, who hadn’t spoken to her mother in three months before the tragedy, was left with the guilt that she wouldn’t be able to ever say goodbye. Lauri worked with detectives and police in both Mexico and California, and four months ago released her first book, The Accidental Truth: What My Mother’s Murder Investigation Taught Me About Life (SelectBooks) with a foreword by former FBI profiler Candice DeLong, whom she hired to further unravel the case. “I’m a crime show lover,” says Lauri. “I watched every minute of the O.J. Simpson case, and crimes that are neatly wrapped up in an hour show.” But when it came to her own life and her own mother, she admits it was more than a bitter pill to swallow. “There was still a lot of mystery, and my three older sisters were ready to put it behind us. But it was how I felt in control,” admits Lauri, who wrote the book around the time her two children—Clark, 23, and Katy, 21—were going off to college. “The book was a gigantic leap, and I think it gave me a sense of identity. Some people looked at me like I was out of my mind, but my mom gave me these great gifts and taught us to write out goals. So whether it was to be a detective or a published author, I believed that about myself.” But, she continues, “Putting myself out there as a firsttime author, I envisioned the English teacher with the red Sharpie and glasses. It’s a ‘get it’ or a ‘don’t get it.’ It’s a true crime, and I can’t embellish it.”
A Life Interrupted
On this particular August afternoon over coffee in Santa Monica, it’s hard to sit across from Lauri and imagine the excruciating, grim personal journey she endured over the past several years: dealing with her mother’s death, being viewed as a potential suspect, visiting a morgue in the middle of nowhere in Mexico with her sister, Deb, to identify their mother’s body, and single-handedly stopping at nothing to help piece together the case. “For every one fact in the book, there are three,” explains Lauri. “I do leave people hanging in parts as a tiny taste of what it was like to never get to an end with all of these rabbit holes.” But underneath her pretty countenance framed by caramel-hued hair, Lauri—who attended Mira Costa High School in Manhattan Beach and majored in business mar-
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keting at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas—is nothing short of tough. Throughout the book she recounts a strained relationship with Jane (from the repercussions of coming home super-late one night from a party in high school to not naming her daughter, Katy, after Jane) and her internal struggle of self-acceptance and justification of what happened and how to deal with the loss. Jane taught Lauri and her three older sisters to uphold a certain public image. “We were taught that we don’t cry,” says Lauri. “I put stress and pressure on myself, and one of the things I try to point out in the book is that I thought I had built the fairytale, but it was a very difficult time.” In writing the book (she took a writing class at UCLA Extension and worked with writing coach Jennie Nash) and spending years searching for her mother’s apparent killer, Lauri found closure. “My nephew Adam, who worked with my mother in the consignment shop, said, ‘Auntie Lauri, did you ever think of doing this as a career?’” Yet she and her sisters definitely never expected to find the answer they did. After hunting down and securing photos taken after the body was discovered in a remote area and having them analyzed by forensic analyst Dr. Michael Baden, there was an entirely new twist to the case. There was no killer. “I was searching for a criminal, and there was no crime,” says Lauri, of her mother’s post-mortem diagnosis of borderline personality disorder. “People still stigmatize suicide, and had we known, we would have gotten her help.” The case, now solved, in the most unexpected way imaginable was the most gut-wrenching aspect, not to mention explaining the truth to a host of people who already concluded it was a violent murder crime. “I exposed the truth, and there’s no shame in being ill,” Lauri continues. “I had to live with the guilt and the blame and shame that I hadn’t spoken to my mother in three months, and that I missed the opportunity to say goodbye.
Some people looked at me like I was out of my mind, but my mom gave me these great gifts and taught us to write out goals. So whether it was to be a detective or a published author, I believed that about myself.” My mother gave us these gifts and tools, and I really thought it [writing this book] was the last chance to make my mother proud.”
Beyond The Page
With a newly released book, Lauri is busy juggling a tour and book signings this fall in cities including Dallas, Chicago
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The Accidental Truth
SISTERS
Clockwise from top left: Debbie Richardson, Kim Harjo, Lauri Taylor and Sherri Holmes
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PIECES OF THE PAST
Top left: Jane with Sherri, Debbie and Lauri. Top right: Lauri's graduation from SMU. Left: Jane and the girls with their paternal grandmother, Blanche. Far left: Lauri's book cover.
and San Diego. She also hasn’t entirely abandoned her “detective” hat. She has been contacted by several families, and sometimes offers practical advice. “The most help I can offer, though, is I have good intuition and credibility,” says Lauri. “And it’s about really being there for people to vent and say, ‘I’ve stood in your shoes.’” Now helping others is Lauri’s mission. She will deliver keynote on September 17 for Smart Women, a fundraising arm of Working Wardrobes made up of influential women and philanthropists in the community. With close friend Sue Curran, she is also developing an anti-stigma, suicide awareness campaign to introduce on college campuses in honor of dear Pi Phi friend, Marsha Dea Davis, who lost her battle with chronic depression and died by suicide in January 2014. There are over 1,100 successful suicides on college campuses annually and suicide is the second leading cause of death amongst college age kids. SMU is not yet confirmed as the first test location. “The suicide rate is highest among young adults ages 19 to 25, and there’s a big stigma,” says Lauri of her current crusade along with her close friend, Sue Curran. “My desire is to reach college students with a group called Sisters Against Stigma.” Knowing the truth, however, about her mother’s mental illness, death and disappearance now offers Lauri some peace of mind, although she explains it will never be easy. “I get private Facebook messages nearly every day from people thanking me for telling my story,” she adds. “At almost every book signing people come up to me to talk after. I think people make assumptions about struggle, and people say there’s something about when you get to the 50-age mark. This whole experi-
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ence was empowering in the oddest way. You aren’t defined by where you’re standing at this minute, and I’m not that exceptional. I worked hard, and I cared a lot. I’m really lucky.” She continues, “I have closure, and I’m very thankful. When we suffer a huge loss, you try to find some meaning. It was a blessing that they found the body. It was a blessing to work with Candice. It was a blessing that the sergeant let me be a part of it. Things like that don’t happen.”
This whole experience was empowering in the oddest way. I worked hard, and I cared a lot. I’m really lucky. I have closure, and I’m very thankful.” Lauri also attests that being the “baby” of the family, she wanted to make her older sisters proud by telling their story. The sisters, who reside throughout the South Bay and Southern California, regularly get together for birthdays, holidays and “sisters’ dinners.” “We are stronger than ever,” says Lauri. “The greatest moment for me is when Kim, a voracious reader, after reading the book, looked at me and said, ‘You wrote a real book!’ We all started laughing.”
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Join the CanCer Support Community redondo BeaCh in celebrating the women in our lives who have been touched by cancer. tuesday•wednesday•thursday
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Cancer Support Community Redondo Beach is a 501(c)(3) non profit, tax ID # 95-4076131, dedicated to providing free programs of support, education and hope to adults & children impacted by cancer.
Barbra Fontana inspires Lane Carico It’s one thing to dream of becoming a professional volleyball player as a child and another to actually become one. After recording a perfect season in her senior year and progressing on to a celebrated college career, Lane Carico has worked steadily to make that wish a reality. And yet, even as a current member of the AVP, Lane still has aspirations to chase—including a possible turn as an Olympian. As she moves forward, Lane looks to fellow volleyball player Barbra Fontana to help her keep her head out of the sand. “Barbra Fontana’s career has been extremely inspiring to me because she is someone who embodies many of the characteristics that I value and strive to master,” Lane says. “Her incredible work ethic as a player, her dedication to creating a healthy and exceptional learning space for those young and old in the sport, her professionalism and integrity, and last but not least her commitment to family are particularly inspirational to me.”
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It’s the fuel of passion and the action in possibility. It’s the will to take the tough roads and voice the hard truths. It’s the basis of our best selves and the backbone of our dreams. Inspiration defines who we are … and it’s rarely sparked alone. Reflecting on the question “Who inspires you?” seven South Bay women speak about other women who influenced their perspectives or gave meaning to their achievements. The assurance they find in their respective choices—the role models they see in friends, family or a historical figure—also show that inspirational women often help create even more.
WRITTEN BY KELLY PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE oursouthbay.com
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You’re the Inspiration
Meg Hall inspires Adrian Hall There are life’s big questions, and then there’s food. In order to feel satisfied by both, a little creativity is needed. As the owner of One Heart Counseling Center and a licensed marriage and family therapist, Adrian Hall has to navigate the daily concerns of her clients by
being resourceful. To meet these ever-changing demands, Adrian finds guidance from her sister Meg Hall, whose imagination helps her run a successful catering business. “What inspires me about Meg is that her vision is limitless,” Adrian says. “Sure, her goals are different than mine. I don’t dream
of building a station at a wedding for candy that looks like jewelry and then have it served from a jewelry case, but I am totally inspired by that level of creativity. Her vision pushes me to think about what I want to create … to think about how my gifts can have a wider reach and have a more significant impact.”
You’re the Inspiration
Kimberly Robinson inspires Cindy Whitehead
When Cindy Whitehead became a professional skateboarder at 17, she proved that her skills on half-pipes and vacant pools didn’t need to be qualified by her gender. But it still happens, and she still speaks out against it. Apart from her job as a sports stylist—which has allowed her to work with the likes of Kobe Bryant and Mia Hamm—Cindy advocates for equality with her brand: Girl is NOT a 4 Letter Word. She’s encouraged by the camaraderie of Kimberly Robinson, owner of Vanguard Surf and Skate in Torrance, who also isn’t afraid to be as good as the guys.
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“I see and hear what she does for girls in both surfing and skateboarding, and it always makes me know that there is someone else out there fighting for equality for women in these sports,” Cindy says. “I know I am never going at it alone. She has my back and the backs of many other women 100%.”
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Bessie Coleman inspires Kellee Edwards Kellee Edwards isn’t afraid to try something new. As a travel journalist for her own brand, Kellee Set Go, she has ventured throughout the world to explore locales on her own terms. One of the many ways she escapes is by air—and since she is also a licensed pilot, Kellee looks to pioneer aviator Bessie Coleman to instill her perseverance. Bessie was the first black woman to receive an international pilot’s license in 1921—after refusals in America forced her to move to France to do so. “Her tenacity was unparalleled; it’s truly incredible. She took countless No’s, put her destiny into her own hands and turned it into a Yes,” Kellee says. “There are dreamers and there are doers, like Coleman. I am definitely the latter as well. I’m not afraid to fail, because at the end of the day I can live with myself knowing that I tried.”
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You’re the Inspiration
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You’re the Inspiration
Linda Kay inspires Lori Ford When Lori Ford thinks back on the memories she has of her mother, Linda Kay, she remembers how her mom went to all of her soccer games and joined a new country club so Lori never felt excluded. As a single mom, she created a clean, fun home where
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Lori’s friends wanted to play. And after she remarried, she made sure Lori was the first person in the family to go to college. Now that Lori is an adult—and the owner of Gum Tree and Gum Tree Kids in Hermosa Beach—she continues to find confidence in her mother’s leadership. “I really did grow up believing I could be anything I wanted to be. I’m not sure
how my mom did that other than she was always telling me that I was smart and beautiful, and she made me believe it,” Lori says. “I hope I can inspire that feeling in my own daughter. My mother and I are very much alike, and I can already see our strength, determination and stubbornness in my 8-year-old daughter! We are no shrinking violets, that’s for sure.”
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gourmet picnics OUTDOOR DINING MADE EASY AT RALPHS
Whether you are planning a romantic sunset picnic, enjoying one of California’s many outdoor concerts or simply heading to the beach to relax with friends, Ralphs is your outdoor dining solution. Ralphs chefs have hand selected fresh and delicious menus for your Perfect Gourmet Picnic.
Select one of three Perfect Gourmet Picnic options:
Coastal Breeze Beachside Bliss California Gold
Simply call 1-877-894-3707 to order your Perfect Picnic
We’ll help you create the Perfect Gourmet Picnic for your special occasion. It will be ready for you to pick up at your favorite Ralphs deli. A 48-hour lead time is recommended.
or Stop by any Ralphs Deli and build your Gourmet Picnic Select one of our chef’s choice picnics or create your own. With so many delectable goodies you’re sure to have an amazing meal. WE MAKE IT EASY FOR YOU TO ENJOY LIFE IN CALIFORNIA. YOUR PERFECT PICNIC WILL INCLUDE DISPOSABLE PLATES, NAPKINS AND CUTLERY ALL IN A BEACH-READY REUSABLE TOTE BAG.
You’re the Inspiration
Jasmine Sharp inspires Stephanie Franz As the creative source behind an everchanging variety of desserts at The Strand House in Manhattan Beach, Stephanie Franz admits that her interest in Pilates seems a little out of place. But when her sister suggested they attend a class at Formu+La
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Pilates and Juice two years ago, she met Jasmine Sharp and welcomed the unexpected. Jasmine’s classes have helped Stephanie lead a healthier life and introduced her to better ingredients that flavor her menus. “As a pastry chef, I have a very fastpaced career. Working in a kitchen can take its toll on you physically and mentally if you don’t take care of
yourself properly,” Stephanie says. “The studio creates a sense of community, and Jasmine’s classes are addicting, inspiring, challenging and fun. Her healthy practices have motivated me to put more plant-based foods in my diet, and vegan cooking has become a new passion of mine. It gives me more energy and a greater sense of well-being.”
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held on Saturday, August 1, 2015 on the grounds of American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
Thank you to our... RESTAURANTS & WINERIES:
TABLE SPONSORS:
Alpine Village
ISE-SHIMA at the Miyako
Depot & Buffalo Fire Dept.
Island Eats Hale ‘Aina
Disneyland Resort
Kincaid’s
Doubletree by Hilton Torrance-South Bay
Nothing Bundt Cakes
Fleming's Prime Steakhouse and Wine bar
Paul Martin’s American Grill Red Car Brewery & Restaurant
Fresh Brothers
Riboli Family Wine Estates
Gourmet Grindz and The Good Cookies & Beyond
ROCK’N FISH MANHATTAN BEACH
Hey 19
Rolling Hills Country Club
Honda Cafe
Shade Hotel
Honda Classic/PGA Tour Professional Wines
Smart & Final Sushi Chef Institute
Il Fornaio
Torrance Marriott Redondo Beach
Ortega 120
2H Construction Association of South Bay Surgeons California State University, Dominguez Hills Cancer Care CH2M Hill Business Group Choura Events COR Healthcare Daily Breeze/ The Beach Reporter/ Palos Verdes Peninsula News Donald & Priscilla Hunt Hillary & Robert Watts MSM Landscape Services, Inc. Torrance Memorial Medical Center
All of our Silent Auction Donors
COMMITTEE: Karin Baker Marianne Brooks Heidi Cunningham Donna Duperron Brigid Dupree
Colleen Farrell Sherry Kramer Mary Morikawa Steve Morikawa Ann O'Brien
Teresa Phillips Laura Schenasi Kacey Takashima-Ahn Lisa Takata Todd Trinneer
Jen Velasquez Sonya Vicerra Mark Waronek Erik Wedin
...and thank you to Peabo Bryson and Daniel Ho for their wonderful performances! Hosted by:
All Proceeds Benefited:
You’re the Inspiration
Deb Patrick inspires Theresa Plakos Theresa Plakos is no stranger to the devastation that comes with a cancer, even if it is felt at a distance. She encounters many people finding ways to cope through her work at Cancer Support Community (CSC) of Redondo Beach, but she was particularly struck by Deb Patrick. Deb came to CSC after her husband was diagnosed with esophageal cancer. During her counseling, Deb’s sister
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and stepmother learned of their breast cancer. After her husband passed away, Deb was diagnosed with breast cancer as well. Given these circumstances, Theresa saw how Deb continued to seek help and eventually become a speaker herself. Deb will be among the featured speakers during the Girls’ Night Out event in October. “Deb’s spirit, determination and strength have inspired me to be a stronger and more resilient person in my own life. Obviously,
I hope that I won’t be faced with all the things that Deb has had to deal with, but she did not let her situation victimize her. She used the free resources offered by CSC to rise above her situation and take charge of her life,” Theresa says. “Deb’s subsequent progress has really shown me that it is OK to seek help and support from others when we are going through a difficult situation. No one should have to face something as difficult as cancer alone.”
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Meet Carolyn Bennett. Behind every strong man is
an even stronger woman. Carolyn, beautiful mother of 6 is devoted to her children and yet still finds time to expand and grow the Good Stuff brand. Come by and say hello at the newest location in Rolling Hills! Thank you Carolyn for all that you do. - GOOD STUFF
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Southbay designer and illustrator Elena Lacey explores unfamiliar food territory with knife, fork and an open mind. WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY oursouthbay.com
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Good Noshing, Vietnam
s I sat on a junk boat in the middle of Ha Long Bay, the tour staff started to bring out plates for our lunch. Some of the plates they served were unfamiliar—little “squid balls” that might be fried, but I can’t tell—and some almost too recognizable fish with its steamed, yellow eye staring up at me. Welcome to Vietnam. My friend Erin embarked on a trip with Ethnic Travel, a company that takes tourists around Vietnam and touts an authentic cultural experience. If the goal was to get off the beaten path and avoid major tourist hubs, this appeared to be our program. So as I looked at the steamed eyeball staring at me from my plate, it was apparent we achieved our goal. Mountains jutted out of the water as our boat sailed on. Erin bit into the fish’s cheek. Our trepidation vanished quickly. The fish, with its perfect combination of ginger and lemon flavor, may have been the best thing we ate the entire trip. For dessert we ate fried taro balls, which were sweet and crunchy. I just felt lucky to be able to enjoy it all. For me, food is half the fun of travel. Museums, hikes, sightseeing and nightlife are fantastic ways to experience a new place or a new culture. Food, however, is its own special adventure. This food lover has an Achilles’ heel. I suffer from an extremely weak stomach. While traveling in Rome several years ago, I got so sick from food poisoning that all I remember of the Vatican was its bathrooms. So when Erin and I decided to meet in Vietnam for a weeklong vacation, I was anxious to say the least. I met with a doctor several weeks before my trip and got some advice for braving the cuisine of the Vietnamese countryside. I was told something I didn’t know: Eat only hot food. If the food has been cooked, there is less risk that there will be unfamiliar bacteria that hasn’t been eliminated by the heat. Cold foods, like veggies that have been rinsed off in a sink, are more likely to be holding onto bacteria that my stomach isn’t accustomed to.
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FULL TOUR, FULL STOMACH Clockwise from top left: Pho with lime and a banana shake; street food in Hanoi; bike parked in Ninh Bính; vendor at a market in Ninh Bính; boats docked at Ha Long Bay; catch of the day; vendor near Ha Long Bay; cold noodles with shrimp at the Lotte Center in Hanoi; two girls pose in front of a meat stand in Ninh Bính.
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Good Noshing, Vietnam
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With this great piece of advice, we started sampling … steamed snails that we ate with mystery sauce on a sidewalk near a busy flower market in Hanoi, handmade fried spring rolls made by a homestay family near Bai Tu Long Bay. Through it all, I stayed total healthy. Despite my success, I can’t claim to have been as adventurous with my food tourism as Erin. At one point in our trip we saw a woman cooking balut in a cart on the side of the street. A bit of background on balut: It’s a duck egg fertilized and matured to the point where the fetus is partially developed. It is then boiled and eaten whole from the shell. I drew the line here because the whole concept freaked me out a little, and thus I missed out on this cultural experience. Erin went for this delicacy. I simply took photos of her bravery. Banh mi sandwiches and pho noodles were the extent of my knowledge of Vietnamese cuisine before the trip. Fortunately we booked the tour of the Northern Vietnam countryside and didn’t have to make many decisions. Local families or the tour group staff lovingly prepared everything we ate. These meals included large spreads of food like fried spring rolls, clam soup, crab cakes (that were served inside the crab shells), prawns, squid and mango. If it was delivered hot, I ate it. Had we visited the large city of Hanoi, chances are we wouldn’t have known what to order or what to try. We also never would have kayaked through an oyster farm or walked through caves in Ha Long Bay. One night after dinner we went squid fishing. We took a light and hooked up a little bioluminescent lure. We lowered this
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up and down in the water until we saw a couple of squids darting past in the dark, then quickly put a red bucket over the
1. Pour condensed milk into a cup. 2. Place Vietnamese coffee grinds into the phin, a traditional Vietnamese metal coffee filter. 3. Pour hot water over the coffee and close the lid. It should start dripping and take around 5 minutes to be ready. 4. Stir the condensed milk into the coffee or save it for a treat at the bottom.
light—turning it red. All the squid suddenly rushed up, and we caught them with a net.
I was as stunned as these squid were. Our bounty was served to us the next day for lunch. One afternoon, in a little village called Ninh Binh, a lovely homestay family served us all a wonderful meal. There was one dish that was a type of cold noodle salad. I was sad not to eat it, as it looked amazing, but I was determined follow my temperature rule. Later on, one of the French friends we made on the tour told me everyone else got extremely ill with food poisoning. Sometimes it pays to stick to your guns. Well, almost … On our final night in Vietnam, it was time to try a bahn mi sandwich. I had eaten pho twice, tried authentic Vietnamese coffee and enjoyed every variety of seafood and cooked noodles and veggies available. By this point in the trip, I was feeling confident about my ability to eat just about everything. I watched as cold, yes cold, veggies were piled into the baguette along with cooked meat. I thought that if I had made it this far without getting sick, I could surely handle some veggies. If I could taste a fish head, I could eat a sandwich! The bread was crispy and warm, and the meat was covered in a sweet sauce. The veggies complemented it all perfectly—fresh and flavorful. Definitely better than any bahn mi I’ve had in the States, although maybe the atmosphere of bustling streets with vendors and lights and hundreds of motor scooters zipping past without regard to pedestrians made it taste so good. Was that last meal in Vietnam worth those next three days I spent with crippling food poisoning? I guess that’s part of the adventure of travel. Experiencing street food in Northern Vietnam was worth any sort of risk of getting sick. And I’d eat that sandwich again to prove it.
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VISTAMAR HAS ALWAYS VALUED DIVERSITY AS EXCELLENCE.
AND WE’RE IN GOOD COMPANY.
At Vistamar School, we believe that learning within a diverse community is necessary for students to thrive in a globalized society. Everyday, we challenge LA’s most diverse student body to collaborate and think critically, inspired by our varied and rigorous curriculum from around the globe. The result is that Vistamar graduates are attractive to the best colleges and empowered to uniquely impact the world as courageous, ethical leaders.
2015 OPEN HOUSE
October 25, November 15, December 13
Registration: 8:30 AM, Program: 9:00 AM - Noon
737 Hawaii Street • El Segundo • www.VistamarSchool.org • 310.643.7377
Vistamar School is an independent high school and is fully accreditedby the California Association of Independent Schools and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
Vistamar South Bay 7.5x4.5875.indd 1 oursouthbay.com
The best education the world has to offer. 9/4/15 9:21 AM
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Women in Business Innovative, creative and multi-faceted. They are the South Bay’s “Women in Business,” and they are making a mark at the companies where they spend their days and share their talents. On these pages, we give a nod to these admirable women and their remarkable work.
WRITTEN BY LAURA WATTS PHOTOGRAPHED BY NICOLE LEONE, SHANE O’DONNELL AND LAUREN PRESSEY
Women in Business “Women are on the leading edge of adopting sustainable investing. According to the February 2015 report “Sustainable Signals: The Individual Investor Perspective” from the Morgan Stanley Institute for Sustainable Investing, women are two times more likely to factor sustainability into investment decisions. Women polled believed that good environmental, social and governance practices can lead to higher profitability and better long term investments. With women controlling $11.2 trillion in assets in the U.S., which is 39% of all investable assets, I believe sustainable investing will have a bright future. Women are becoming the new ‘green’ in regard to money and sustainable investing.” — LISA GAREY, MORGAN STANLEY
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LISA GAREY
Senior Vice President/ Senior Portfolio Manager/Financial Advisor Morgan Stanley 609 Deep Valley Drive, Suite 400 Rolling Hills Estates 310-544-3606 morganstanleyfa.com/lisa.garey lisa.garey@morganstanley.com
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s a Senior Portfolio Manager and Financial Advisor, Lisa Garey embraces and advocates a relationship-based alliance with her clients. A deep discovery process is the basis for her customized advice. Lisa is proficient in helping affluent men and women and their families, successful senior executives, entrepreneurs and business owners preserve their wealth. Her knowledge and experience coupled with a personal, high-touch approach allows clients to understand their complex financial position in a clear and concise way. Lisa joined Morgan Stanley in 2012 and has worked in the financial field for almost two decades.
being a female in the financial world makes me unique. These characteristics make my relationship-based working style what it is today.”
What would you want potential clients to know about you?
“Beyond what most might expect my clients’ concerns are, like saving for retirement, some are looking at ways they can invest with impact.”
“So many people ask, ‘What do you really do?’ I invest in stocks, municipal bonds, corporate bonds, mutual funds, ETFs, alternative investments, etc., along with banking and mortgages for clients. I produce a complete asset allocation of all client assets, including those held away from Morgan Stanley, retirement accounts, 401Ks, their real estate value(s) and mortgage balance(s). It’s a one-page, easy-to-understand full picture of their net worth. This allows us to develop an investment strategy for their Morgan Stanley assets.”
Tell us a bit about your working style.
“My working style has grown over 19 years of serving loyal clients. Until 2009, I worked with a partner who then retired. The vast majority of our clients wanted me to continue managing their assets. As I went from a partnership to a sole practitioner, I felt differently—quickly realizing I wasn’t the same Financial Advisor, even though I had the same clients. Instead I was blossoming into a better advisor. Organically, more of my female attributes began to shine through and enhance the relationships I had with clients. I have found that
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How do you advise your clients to achieve and maintain success?
“I keep my clients informed about the economy, the markets and their investments so we can make decisions about their financial life together. I ask them on a regular basis if we’re still on track with their goals, and we adjust those goals as we grow together through life.”
What question or concern do you frequently hear from clients?
What is “Investing with Impact”?
“Morgan Stanley defines ‘Investing with Impact’ as an approach that aims to generate market-rate financial returns while demonstrating positive environmental and/or social impact. Morgan Stanley has created the Institute for Sustainable Investing, which aims to advance market-based solutions to economic, social and environmental challenges.”
How do you help your clients and prospects understand “Investing with Impact”?
“By providing research from our Institute for Sustainable Investing. A survey conducted by our Institute* found that 71% of individual investors have a positive but conflicted view of sustainable investing. And more than half of those investors believe there is a trade-off between choosing sustainability and financial gains. The truth is that you don’t have to sacrifice performance to invest with principles.”
How is sustainable investing right for the South Bay?
“First, because the South Bay is such a philanthropic community. Investing with impact can be aligned with the goals of the foundations where we sit on boards. Second, women are more likely to factor sustainability into investment decisions. With women controlling 39% of investable assets in the U.S.*, I believe sustainable investing has a bright future. Women are the new “green.”
Disclaimer: Morgan Stanley and it Financial Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals should seek advice based on their particular circumstances from an independent tax advisor. Lisa Garey is a Financial Advisor with the Wealth Management Division of Morgan Stanley in Rolling Hills Estates, CA. The views expressed herein are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect the view of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, Member SIPC [www.sipc.org]. Lisa Garey engaged Southbay Magazine to feature this profile. Although the title “Women in Business” is used by Southbay Magazine, no inference should be drawn regarding a financial advisor based on the use of that title by Southbay Magazine. Lisa Garey may only transact business in states where she is registered or excluded or exempted from registration. www.morganstanleyfa.com/lisa. garey. Transacting business, follow-up and individualized responses involving either effecting or attempting to effect transactions in securities, or the rendering of personalized investment advice for compensation, will not be made to persons in states where Lisa Garey is not registered or excluded or exempt from registration. The strategies and/or investments referenced may not be suitable for all investors. CRC 1263442 8/15 * Source: MS Institute of Sustainable Investing Survey, “Sustainable Signals, The Individual Investor Perspective” Feb., 2015.
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Women in Business
FAST FACT
Lisa worked in Century City for 16 years before moving to Morgan Stanley in Rolling Hills Estates in 2012.
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Women in Business FAST FACT
The pictured working mothers of Terranea have a total of 45 kids, ranging in age from newborn to late 30s.
TERRANEA RESORT 100 Terranea Way Rancho Palos Verdes 310-265-2800 terranea.com
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pen since June 2009, Terranea Resort offers a variety of dining, spa, golf and recreation options to its guests. Terranea has more than 300 working moms on its staff, with more than 200 years of experience in the hospitality industry. The working mothers at Terranea range from high school graduates to those who have earned master’s degrees.
Tell us something unique about your business
“Terranea allows working mothers to be present in both their careers and their family life. Terri Haack, Terranea’s president and a working mother herself, often communicates the importance of a work-life harmony rather than balance. She emphasizes the importance of never missing an important family moment and allows associates at the resort the flexibility to do so.”
How do you handle issues that are unique to the working female?
“The hospitality industry is uniquely suited to the working woman. We are all natural caretakers and communicators, so working at a hotel is a great showcase for our skills.”
Why does your industry appeal to you?
“The hotel industry and Terranea offer many different positions, days and hours that work around your children's schedules. Terranea encourages support from other women at the resort who understand the need to juggle the multiple demands of motherhood and career aspirations. Working mothers can step in and out while having children without derailing their career goals and still allowing children a stable start in life. There is a true appreciation within the industry for what it takes and an implied support structure to count on.”
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What are some ways you provide topnotch customer service?
“At Terranea, we all try to provide extraordinary service—not only to our guests but within our teams as well. We believe that we should look after each other just as well as we look after our guests.”
How do you empathize with your customer in order to build his/her trust in you and your business? “We have spent considerable time and energy getting to know our clients both locally and further afield. We build trust by being authentic and true to our core values. We do what we say, and we deeply care.”
What’s most rewarding about your work?
“Making a difference in the lives of others, every single day for guests, the community and our fellow associates who work at Terranea. Every day we are grateful for the opportunity we are given to be a leader in this extraordinary resort and to have played a small part in its creation and journey.”
How do you give back to your community? “We all belong to a group called Women in Lodging, which is a hospitality industry organization of women that meets monthly to continually challenge members while giving back to the community. The Terranea group has participated in events ranging from clothing collections for local cancer patients to participating in Habitat for Humanity builds.”
How many of your kids have worked at Terranea?
“At least five children of the women in this group have at one time been Terranea associates.”
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FAST FACT
L to R: Edward Powell, Carla B. Hoffman, Richard A. Luftman, Denise M. Guzman, George G. Romain, Marcus Chang, Carol T. Contes, Rafael Orozco. Photographed by MARISA GUZMÁN-ALOIA
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Denise Guzman founded the South Bay chapter of the American Business Women’s Association, a national organization dedicated to fostering professional and personal growth for businesswomen.
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Women in Business
DENISE M. GUZMAN Founder/Principal Attorney Guzman Law Group, PC 1230 Rosecrans Avenue, Suite 650 Manhattan Beach 310-321-6640 guzmanlg.com
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enise M. Guzman is a business and estate planning attorney who has served the South Bay for the last 30 years. She is the founding partner of Guzman Law Group, a firm that provides high-caliber legal services for businesses, entertainment, intellectual property, estate planning and trust administration clients. Denise has been a trailblazer who has earned a strong reputation as a leader and mentor to business women and young attorneys. Ms. Guzman, who earned her bachelor’s degree from USC and her law degree from UCLA, founded the South Bay chapter of the American Business Women’s Association in 1993, a national organization dedicated to fostering professional and personal growth for businesswomen. In 2003, she received “Woman of the Year” from The Switzer Center for her service to the community. In 2010, Comerica Bank—in partnership with the Los Angeles Lakers— named her their “Woman of Entrepreneurship” honoree in the 2010 Best of L.A. Women’s Business Awards. And in 2015, the South Bay community voted the Guzman Law Group “South Bay’s Best Attorneys.”
How do clients benefit from working with your team?
Denise M. Guzman: “We work in a team environment. There is always more than one attorney familiar with a case. If a client calls when the lead attorney is unavailable, there is always someone present in the office ready to assist the client in their matter.”
What would you like potential clients to know about you?
Carla Hoffman, Estate Planning Attorney: “We work with our clients to help them understand their options and guide them to make informed decisions which are best for their family.”
Tell us a bit about your working style.
Denise M. Guzman: “As an attorney my working style is direct, intuitive and, by nature, collaborative. However, I also know how to deliver the bottom line to opposing counsel. I am very good at effectively communicating a difficult message. Timing is everything in a case, and I know how to choose the right moment to engage in battle—and only if needed.”
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Why does your industry appeal to you?
Carol T. Contes, Entertainment, Copyright & Trademark Attorney: “The entertainment industry is fast-paced and international in scope, both of which attributes appeals to me. I like to be challenged intellectually and be a part of a world-wide business.”
Give us a great piece of advice of how to protect ourselves and our families.
Denise M. Guzman: “Be proactive. Whether its business or estate planning, it’s about creating a strong foundation that the next generation can work from. It helps everyone involved to have a clear picture of where they are going.”
What is the biggest benefit that your clients gain from working with you?
Edward Powell, Business Attorney: “Practicing business law allows me to become an integral part of my clients’ successes. Anticipating, acknowledging and addressing the interests of all the parties to a transaction not only protects my clients’ particular legal interests but also ensures that the business relationship is on sound footing and a positive experience for everyone.” George G. Romain, Business Litigator and Employment Lawyer: “The greatest value our clients gain from working with the Guzman Law Group is peace of mind. As result of our hard work and expertise, our clients can trust in our recommendations on any given point. ‘Protecting the needs of each and every client’ is not only the cornerstone of our philosophy and practice but also the reason why our clients continue to turn to us.”
How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?
Denise M. Guzman: “I am very thoughtful in my approach, no matter if it is a business, trust or estate planning client. I take the time to get to know who the client is as a person, their threshold of risk, and over the past 30+ years I’ve learned how to ask the right questions. The client doesn’t always know which facts are relevant to their case, so I learned to read body language when communicating with a client. The more I know the person, the better I am at protecting them.”
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FAST FACT
STYLED BY MANHATTAN DENIM AND BELLA BEACH
The women on the Board of Directors for the Downtown Manhattan Beach Business & Professionals Association own at least one business in Downtown and also serve on the Board of Directors.
L to R: Linda McLoughlin Figel, Chandra Shaw, Tiffany Mesko (center front), Kelly Stroman (center back), Kris Mackerer-D’Errico, Maureen McBride
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Women in Business
DOWNTOWN MANHATTAN BEACH BUSINESS & PROFESSIONALS ASSOCIATION 310-379-9901 downtownmanhattanbeach.com
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he Downtown Manhattan Beach Business & Professionals Association represents 275+ businesses in Downtown Manhattan Beach. The board of directors is comprised of five female business owners (pictured) and six male business owners in Downtown MB. The Association works closely with the city of Manhattan Beach, the City Council, the Chamber of Commerce, and countless community and business groups. The group advocates for the vitality of the downtown business area and is relentless about making the community a better place. These power women help to balance the mix of businesses, execute community events, explore solutions for customer/employee parking, field concerns, present solutions, and are committed to the growth, health and overall welfare of all facets of Downtown Manhattan Beach. Kelly Stroman is the executive director for the Downtown MB Business Association and also oversees the MB Farmers Market. She is the mother of two boys and a longtime resident. She recently served as publicity/ marketing chair for the Special Olympics World Games Host Town MB Committee. Linda McLoughlin Figel is a co-owner of {pages} a bookstore and also a book fair company. Linda is serving her second term as treasurer for the Association. She is a longtime resident and mother of three. Chandra Shaw owns Trilogy Spa and is a past president of the Association and still serves on the board of directors. She has one elementary school-aged daughter at Robinson school. Tiffany Mesko has owned Manhattan Denim since 2007. She was an elementary school teacher in Los Angeles for 14 years before opening her store. She currently serves as a director for the Association and has one son.
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Kris Mackerer-D’Errico is the president of the DBPA. She owns Bella Beach and Bella Beach Kids and is a longtime resident of Manhattan Beach, where her husband, Tony D’Errico, is mayor pro-tem. Longtime resident Maureen McBride served two terms as president of the Association and continues to serve on the board of directors. Maureen owns two stores: Tabula Rasa Essentials and the newly opened Yorktown.
What would you like potential visitors to know?
“Give us a try! There is something for everyone and every age in Downtown Manhattan Beach. From serious fashion to everyday shopping, from unique one-of-a-kind finds to souvenirs and gifts, from tastebud-tantalizing food and the most unique cocktails to a simple stroll with ice cream in hand … Downtown Manhattan Beach truly is the jewel of the South Bay.”
Tell us about Downtown Manhattan Beach.
“Downtown offers everything from locally owned retail stores—with owners who pride themselves in knowing every customer’s wishes and needs—to the buzzing culinary jackpot of the South Bay that rivals any dining choice in Southern California. Downtown Manhattan Beach is clean, safe, easy to navigate and allows you to shop, dine, play and even stay just steps from the pristine sand. It is relaxed and friendly yet a culturally sophisticated and vibrant business district.”
With today’s social media, do you feel your clients are motivated by emotions and feelings of connection? “YES! Social media can be a blessing and a beast. It is a wonderful way to connect,
share and disseminate information. Thousands of pictures are taken and posted every week of the Manhattan Beach Pier and surrounding area. Visitors often stop traffic at the intersection of Manhattan Beach Boulevard and Manhattan Avenue to snap a perfect picture of the Roundhouse Aquarium and Pier and sparkling waters during the day. Then there are the unforgettable sunsets. You can shop or dine with a view and stroll the Pier. You can even park with a million-dollar view!”
What are some ways you provide topnotch customer service?
“In this age of technology and having almost anything a click away, what technology can’t do is embrace the human emotion of a personal connection, voice, handshake or hug. The business owners in Downtown Manhattan Beach stay connected by being present in their businesses, picking up the phone and connecting the old-fashioned way, keeping notes about you, your favorite things, your personal taste, and genuinely take an interest in everything that is important to you. There are even a few stores, like Beehive and Wright’s, that still handwrite receipts … not because they are afraid of technology but because they believe in that human connection.”
How do you give back to your community?
“The combined giving power of all of the businesses and the Downtown Manhattan Beach Business & Professionals Association is staggering! It is estimated that, combined, the businesses donate close to $1 million a year! Downtown is always supportive of, present at events and giving to the people and organizations that make Manhattan Beach the best city in the South Bay.”
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FAST FACT Dr. Magovern grew up in El Segundo and currently lives in Manhattan Beach with her husband—whom she met in medical school—and their two daughters.
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Women in Business ASHLEY MAGOVERN, MD Dermatologist/Owner Manhattan Dermatology
400 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Suite 205 Manhattan Beach 310-546-1188 manhattan-dermatology.com
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shley Magovern, MD is a board-certified dermatologist who earned her medical degree from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. She completed her internship at Stanford University and her dermatology residency at the University of Illinois, Chicago. She also completed a one-year fellowship at Children’s Memorial Hospital in Chicago, working with a leader in pediatric dermatology. Before opening her private practice in Manhattan Beach four years ago, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Magovern worked alongside world-renowned dermatologist Dr. Howard Murad at the Murad Inclusive Health Medical Group.
What would you like potential patients to know about you?
“When I chose to go into dermatology, it wasn’t necessarily to perform cosmetic procedures. I really just wanted to be an expert in the skin, and I still really enjoy medical dermatology. But as the field of nonsurgical cosmetics has grown, I’ve found myself in the perfect position to do both, and it’s really become a passion of mine—and in effect has shaped the way our practice has evolved.”
What question or concern do you frequently hear from clients?
“People always ask me, ‘What should I be using on my skin?’ I love that question because there are actually very specific answers. I truly enjoy helping my patients come up with a plan.”
Who is your target client?
“In dermatology, we see it all: infants to elderly to everyone in between. We actually love the medical aspect of our field, so treating rashes, skin cancer, warts and acne makes us happy!”
L to R, the providers: Angelyn England, PA-C; Nina Desai, MD; Ashley Magovern, MD; Elissa Squire, RN, BSN; Lizette Ludwig, RN, BSN
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How do you advise your patients to achieve and maintain success?
“Lasers, chemical peels and injectables like Botox might not be for everyone, but everyone should definitely be taking care of their skin at home. A good skin care regimen can make a dramatic difference and can even help prevent skin cancer. However, it’s really important to use skin care products that are backed by good science—so it’s important to get professional advice. For example, it’s not what moisturizer or eye cream you’re using; it’s actually what you put on before them—the ‘treatment’ products. I
love to educate people about what to use.”
What’s most rewarding about your work?
“Dermatology and skin care will always be my passion, but starting my own business has been an unexpected reward. Like most doctors, I had no experience with business and had to learn on the job. I just kept trying to stay true to this vision I’ve always had in my head about how I wanted my practice, and luckily I’ve been able to see it through. It’s actually more than I ever envisioned.”
What does the future hold for your career?
“We are busting at the seams and are lucky enough to be expanding our space. I am so excited to be able to better meet the needs of our patients with more rooms, more equipment and a dedicated skin care product space.”
Tell us about your staff.
“We have an amazing group of women at Manhattan Dermatology. We truly enjoy each other’s company, and I think it shows and is reflected in our patient care. I am passionate about providing the finest medical care by making sure myself and the other providers are practicing top-notch medicine. Dr. Nina Desai is a dermatologist who just joined our practice. She practiced for several years in Manhattan, New York, before moving to the South Bay last year. She is a wonderful complement to our office and will no doubt become an important dermatologist in the community. My physician assistant, Angelyn England, has 12+ years experience in dermatology and specializes in both medical and cosmetic dermatology. Our cosmetic nurses, Lizette and Elissa, have a true expertise in lasers and injectables. Tracy Louder, our practice manager, has a knack for making it run smoothly each and every day. It’s a great place to be.”
What do you like to do for fun, when you’re not at work?
“A South Bay native, I enjoy being back home and spending time with my family and friends. I grew up in El Segundo and went to the East Coast and Midwest for medical school and residency training. I loved every experience but couldn’t wait to get back to the South Bay. I dragged my husband back to Manhattan Beach. He loves it, by the way. Juggling my career, kids and family is my specialty these days.”
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CAMTU NGUYEN Owner Blossom Beauty Lounge 201 Ave., Ste. 101 Redondo Beach 310-316-5500 blossombeautylounge.com
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lossom Beauty Lounge specializes in nail art, permanent makeup and eyelash extensions—and will soon feature micro-stroking semipermanent makeup. Owner Camtu Nguyen opened the business in 2012. She is a licensed cosmetologist and continues to take master courses to perfect her techniques and learn new trends. The Blossom Beauty team also includes five technicians and two salon managers.
How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?
“I provide a clean and welcoming environment and strive to have a vast variety of products in the salon. In addition to this I am really excited about our new Lash Bar, which is an extension to Blossom Beauty Lounge that provides ample space for our high demand of eyelash extensions, aesthetics and permanent makeup.”
What concern do you frequently hear from clients?
“Scheduling and time. Since we are in a small space, we have not had sufficient time to provide back-to-back services for our clients who come to us for everything or not enough available appointments to meet their schedule. I am very excited to be able to address both concerns with our brand new addition that we will be unveiling soon!”
Tell us something unique about your business.
“I love having a welcoming ambience. I was fortunate enough to find Karen Peterman, a local amazing designer and friend who has turned my vision into a reality. Together we have designed
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our unique Lash Bar. In addition to this, for an extra fee our clients will have the opportunity to book Blossom’s VIP, a room that has been set up for clients to get their nails, toes and lash extensions done all at the same time while enjoying the comfort of our extra-large custom chairs. Booking this service will drastically decrease the time they would normally spend at Blossom.”
they do. That is the key to success. If you have amazing staff, it keeps the customers coming back. And when you throw in high-quality products, they will not only enjoy being there, but they leave satisfied with the services they’ve received.”
Who is your target client?
“Setting us apart from other salons. I have had to be very diligent when it comes to staying aware of the constantly changing trends and the products I choose to purchase for my business. Being aware of these things has helped set Blossom Beauty Lounge in a different category than your typical salon.”
“People who appreciate quality work and understand that we are not the typical salon. We love our craft and prefer doing quality work vs. quantity.”
In today’s world of social media, do you feel your clients are motivated by emotions and feelings of connection?
“Yes, in this age of technology, social media has become a big part of everyday life. People enjoy posting everything they do, so when they come in for a visit they love to share with their friends and family their experience at Blossom. I have also used social media as a way to advertise special prices for our social media followers as well as introducing them to our newly hired technicians and the amazing work they’ve done. I have already set aside special promotions that I will be posting when I open my Lash Bar. I think it’s an important part of my business to post on our Instagram (@blossombeautylounge) the things that we do, and I personally enjoy interacting and answering any questions that our followers have.”
What are some ways you provide top-notch customer service?
“I provide excellent service by ensuring that my staff members are well trained and love what
What are some of the challenges you have encountered in your industry?
How do you give back to your community?
“I am always helping out the community by providing gift certificates for free services at our salon to local schools or organizations that come to us in advance. They are always happy to receive these certificates to include in their raffles.”
What do you like to do for fun, when you’re not at work?
“I am a foodie, and I love exploring and trying different restaurants and appreciate good cuisine.”
What does the future hold for your career? “I really hope for my business to grow and continue being successful. I am excited with all the opportunities I have been blessed with since I started this venture and look forward to the future and everything that is to come. I have a lot of plans and want to see these become a reality.”
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Women in Business
FAST FACT
Cammy has worked in the beauty industry since she was age 18.
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LUANN FABIAN
General Contractor/Owner LuAnn Development P.O. Box 1911 Redondo Beach 310-428-3578 luanndev.com
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uAnn Fabian is a licensed general contractor who has built quality homes, remodels and additions in the South Bay for the past 12 years. She started her own firm, LuAnn Development, in 2007.
What would you like potential clients to know about you?
How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?
How do you advise your clients to achieve and maintain success?
“Actually being a female general contractor almost immediately distinguishes us from our competition. But if I had to distill it down to two words, I would say communication and organization. Communication is paramount, and we pride ourselves on being completely accessible throughout the project, allowing for fluid, two-way communication. Organization is not just a ‘buzz’ word but a way of life for us that begins with the first conversation and continues even past the Certificate of Occupancy. From start to finish, organization is the key to building a new house.”
What are some of the challenges you have encountered being a female in your industry?
“The biggest challenge is that there are not many women general contractors. So the first main obstacle that I have to overcome is that I am a woman in a primarily mandominated world. But that doesn’t mean that I don’t know what I am doing or that I am not good at my work. My client reviews and portfolio speak for themselves. The second biggest obstacle is respect, and you don’t automatically get respect just because you get a license to do this work. Respect comes from doing the job you were hired to do and doing it well with my ethics and integrity at the forefront. I am passionate about what I do, and it’s evident to those around me.”
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“We put great care, effort and details into the building of their home. No matter the size of the project we treat each and every project as if it were our only project.”
Pre-planning, and communication are likely the most important factors going into the planning of a new home or remodel. There are a lot of decisions that have to be made throughout the process and there is plenty of time to do that in the early stages. This allows for thought, and care to go into every decision so that they are not made in haste. Communication is key to ANY relationship and especially with your General Contractor.
Tell us about your family.
“I am the proudest of mothers to four amazing children who all reside in the South Bay. Dominic, who also works for me, and his wife, Amy, have my two lovely granddaughters, Bailey (7) and Brooklyn (3). My oldest daughter, Paachez, recently married John, an LA sheriff. Corey is now a senior in high school, and my youngest, Jazmin, is training to be a professional aerialist.”
How do you handle issues that are unique to the working female?
“Project management has always been a core skill set for me, and as a single mother and business owner it is still the core strength. It’s a challenge to find time to be a mother, grandmother, business owner and friend and still have time for yourself.”
How would your clients describe you?
“I am easy to work with, organized, professional, great eye for detail, dependable and readily available when needed.”
In today’s world of social media, do you feel your clients are motivated by emotions and feelings of connection?
“Without a doubt! I think connection is by far one of the biggest reasons our clients choose us, and that connection continues to grow throughout the process. To this day I am pleased to say we have many valued friendships/relationships that have originated from a client/project.”
FAST FACT
LuAnn moved to the South Bay around 25 years ago and raised four children here.
Tell us a bit about your working style.
“A crucial element in our working style is the ability to establish realistic goals for ourselves and our subcontractors and clients. By establishing a reasonable schedule, we keep work flowing at all times. We treat our subcontractors as valued members of the team. We treat people fairly, admit when we’re wrong and are not too proud to apologize. I am a woman of my word with strong morals and ethics and require the same from everyone in our company.”
How do you provide top-notch customer service?
“Our team communicates throughout the project with our clients, subcontractors, architects, city officials and engineers to ensure a smooth project timeline. We continue to make ourselves available to ensure decisions are made in a timely manner as not to impact the timeline or costs.”
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WOMEN OF THE LA 25 thela25.com la25foundation.org
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he LA25 is a network of professional women and men who are South Bay business owners—dedicated to the highest level of service in their respective industries and giving back to the community they love. The women in this group include an attorney, orthodontist, interior designer, event planner, gift shop owner and a dermatologist. Here they tell us about their businesses. Jane Euler: “I am a family law attorney, collaborator and mediator with Lauzon & Euler, LLP. We have offered competent and compassionate services, as well as a wealth of resources and creative solutions, to our clients for more than 20 years. What sets me apart from other attorneys in my field is my personalized service. I try to build a rapport with my clients. I get to know them, try to understand their needs and wants, and I give them the big picture, including from their spouse’s perspective, when appropriate. I have had many clients express appreciation for my attempt to adapt their process to their needs and emotional status at any given time. Most importantly, I make sure that my clients are well informed before making any decisions within their family law matters.” Amy Gimlen, DDS, MS: “My mission is to provide excellent, cutting-edge orthodontic care in a warm and comfortable environment. I believe orthodontics goes beyond the function and aesthetics of my patients’ smiles, and I strive to help them achieve personal growth and self-confidence, in addition to beautiful smiles. I am the only female Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics in the South Bay. Diplomates are chosen based on stringent standards for skills, knowledge and ability. Only the top doctors are admitted. I graduated from USC, a top orthodontic program, and UCLA, a Top 5 dental school, magna cum laude. In addition to my private practice, I also serve on the cleft lip and palate team St. John’s hospital.” Kate Lester: “Kate Lester Interiors is a completely fullservice interior design firm. We specialize in custom home design and are involved in the design/build process—from framing to furniture installation. Our architectural and construction knowledge enables
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us to work seamlessly with all trades. As a graduate of USC Marshall School of Business and Otis Design School, I embrace my creativity but also take the business of design very seriously. My previous experience in the financial sector allows us to provide our clients detailed budgets, monthly status updates and project timeline spreadsheets for every job. It’s just another way to show our clients that we are staying on target and being good stewards of their money from concept to completion.” Lori Ford: “Gum Tree is a charming gift shop and cafe, located in a 1911 Craftsman bungalow in downtown Hermosa Beach. We strive to provide our customers with the very best product mix and excellent customer service. Gum Tree Kids is the newest addition to our family; there you’ll find great gifts and decor for all the kids on your list. I believe, as English designer William Morris once said, ‘Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.’ I source goods from all over the world. We gift wrap everything at no charge, and we will do our best to get anything special our customers are looking for. We have an excellent café next door, so you can grab some avocado toast to fill you up before shopping.” Ashley Magovern, MD: “I am a dermatologist and South Bay native and own Manhattan Dermatology, which offers medical and cosmetic dermatology services. We strive to become an important part of the community while delivering excellent care in a friendly, modern and professional environment. We are so lucky in the field of dermatology to be able to take care of the whole family, and that’s what we love to do.” JoLise Tracey: “Shade Hotel, located at 1221 North Valley Drive, is the only luxury boutique hotel in Downtown Manhattan Beach—where luxury meets the coastline. We pride ourselves on flexibility and service. You dictate, we facilitate. The sky’s the limit. Shade Hotel offers luxurious overnight accommodations, unique event spaces that transcend the concept of both indoors and outdoors, and a brunch and dinner menu seven days a week! Our professional and experienced staff is committed to your every need before, during and after your visit.”
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FAST FACT
The LA25 has recently formed The LA25 Foundation for the Arts, a 501C3 dedicated to funding arts programs for South Bay children. Funds are raised through private donations, corporate sponsorships and the annual art auction ART310, which will be held at The Point in El Segundo on September 25.
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LISA JEWELL, MD, FACS WHITNEY BURRELL, MD South Bay Plastic Surgeons 3440 Lomita Boulevard, Suite 100, Torrance 310-784-0644 plasticsurgerysource.com
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outh Bay Plastic Surgeons is a comprehensive cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery group that features a complete medical spa with lasers, injectables and non-invasive fat reduction. The team consists of 20 staff members who work together to customize the best treatments to achieve patients’ goals. Specifically, South Bay Plastic Surgeons includes four plastic surgeons—Dr. Lisa Jewell, Dr. Whitney Burrell, Dr. Charles Spenler and Dr. Michael Newman—as well as three aesthetic nurses, three aestheticians and 10 support staff. The group was started more than 20 years ago.
Tell us something unique about your business.
“The most unique quality about South Bay Plastic Surgeons is that we are a collaborative group, and each member brings a unique perspective and skill set to the table. As practitioners, we benefit from each other’s varied training and experience and always have reliable support from each other when needed. Our patients benefit because they get excellent subspecialized care that can be tailored by each member of the group.”
How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?
Dr. Burrell: “South Bay Plastic Surgeons is different than other plastic surgery practices because of the high level of simultaneous expertise and humility—very rare to find in one practice. The expertise is due to the range and depth of the surgeons and is evident in the results. The high integrity of each surgeonpatient relationship and the unparalleled
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professionalism were first among many reasons why I chose to join this practice.”
What are some ways you provide topnotch customer service?
Dr. Jewell: “The first step in providing exceptional customer service is making a personal commitment to excellence in one’s field and surrounding oneself with colleagues with the same commitment.”
How do you advise your patients to achieve and maintain success?
Dr. Jewell: “The first step is to listen carefully to the patient so we can both clearly understand and define her goals. Next my staff and I work with the patient so she is physically, mentally and financially prepared for surgery. The physical preparation involves optimizing the patient’s health prior to surgery. The mental preparation is understanding what to expect on the day of surgery and for the days immediately following surgery. My job as a surgeon is not only to execute a flawless surgery but to also anticipate and eliminate any hurdles my patient may face on the path to a smooth, serene recovery.” Dr. Burrell: “Success is such a multifaceted term, but nothing is successful unless it’s built on
truth. So I try to get to the bottom of a patient’s motivations and desires in order to build a solid plan for success. Together with the patient we can come up with a plan for success that we can implement together. This may include a series of skin care treatments or surgery that may require several stages. Once the patient and I agree on goals and a plan, success is very achievable.”
Tell us about your family.
Dr. Jewell: “My husband and I have been together for 23 years (married for 14). He is a digital artist and owns a visual effects company. We have two sons, ages 8 and 4.” Dr. Burrell: “I met my husband, Dan, after I moved to Los Angeles and was set up by my college roommate on a blind date. His large family lives here and in Orange County, and my sister and her husband and three daughters are soon to join us in Los Angeles.”
What’s most rewarding about your work? Dr. Jewell: “The best reward is a happy patient who feels and looks more confident, natural and well-rested after surgery. I want my patients to be asked, ‘Did you just come back from vacation?’ not, ‘Who is your plastic surgeon?’”
Who is your target client?
FAST FACT
South Bay Plastic Surgeons was featured on an ABC Nightline News segment highlighting breast reconstruction and the DIEP flap, a procedure that creates natural breasts post-mastectomy using a woman’s own tissue.
Dr. Burrell: “Someone who is excited about her life and is open to a collaborative partnership with us to achieve results she desires. It’s a more straightforward process when she is already fit and aware of what improvements in her appearance she wants to make, but I also enjoy collaborating with people who are just beginning the path to a life overhaul.”
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In just 16 months Dr Paul’s Immediate Care has received more 5-star reviews on Yelp than any other urgent care clinic in the South Bay.
L to R: Carla Petrich, Chelsea Halmy, Shannon Rear, Jennifer Camacho, Suzanne Burns Knittel, Christine Pagunuran, Katelyn Ordway, Julia Karnoski
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Women in Business SUZANNE BURNS KNITTEL Owner Dr. Paul’s Immediate Care 1812 Artesia Boulevard Redondo Beach 310-374-5600 mydrpaul.com
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r. Paul’s Immediate Care is a new ERtrained walk-in medical clinic owned and operated by an ER physician and husband-and-wife team. Dr. Paul Knittel is a twice-board-certified ER physician with 15+ years in Southern California emergency rooms. Suzanne Burns Knittel is a pharmaceutical executive with 13+ years of sales and marketing experience. They have combined their emergency medicine skills and business experience to build an immediate care clinic for patients of all ages with all acute medical needs. Customized for the South Bay community, they offer patients a medical experience that emphasizes the highest level of customer service within a modern, clean and healing environment. They offer on-site services such as IV, X-ray, labs and pharmacy. Suzanne is a former VP of sales who spent 13+ years at Fortune 100 companies building and leading divisions with a focus on revenue growth, talent acquisition and product development. Prior to that career path she earned her bachelor’s degree from Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio.
What would you like potential clients to know about your clinic?
“We believe emergency medicine training and experience is paramount for an immediate care setting. Our ER-trained team is able to care for simple to more complex walk-in medical needs. We have experience treating patients of all ages and acuities and have onsite X-ray, labs, IV hydration and pharmacy.”
Tell us about your team.
“The appreciation we have for our staff cannot be described in words. The women featured in this picture, in addition to our male staff, are a highly competent and compassionate medical team that consists of experienced ER staff and patient advocates. We are medically prepared to treat the majority of acute and non-acute illnesses and injuries that occur on a daily basis. Our team has created a front office environment that is welcoming, helpful and comforting during your time of need. My goal was to create a highly motivating, positive, challenging and rewarding organizational culture in which our employees can thrive. I am
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extremely fortunate to have two outstanding women leading and managing our staff. Jennifer Camacho, Director of Operations, and Katelyn Ordway, Manager of Patient Care Coordination, oversee all clinical and administrative staff and logistics. They both were promoted from within and report directly to me. They are true examples of patient advocates and people leaders. In addition to being exceptionally kind and caring, our staff are true patient advocates. Our patients frequently complement our staff on their level of customer service and appreciate the staff’s genuine concern for their well-being. Our patients have told us after a visit to Dr. Paul’s Immediate Care they forget they were even sick. Take a look at what our patients have said about us on Yelp. We are a proud 5-star business.”
How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?
“My husband, Dr. Paul Knittel, has been an ER physician for 15+ years, and he believes the BEST medical training for a walk-in medical clinic is an ER-experienced and trained facility. All of our medical providers, nurses, medical assistants and patient care coordinators have ER experience or ER training. We are prepared to respond to, diagnose and treat the majority of acute and non-acute medical illness and injuries at any time. With an ER-trained facility, we are also able to handle more complicated acute cases and procedures.”
Tell us about your office.
“We have been told our facility feels more like a beautiful beach home instead of a medical office. We believe a positive, clean, modern and comfortable space is better for the healing process and well-being of our patients. We have designed our facility specifically to accommodate the medical needs of the South Bay community.”
How do you give back to your community?
“My husband, our staff and I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the people of the South Bay. As we become closer to our patients and community, we have taken a vested interest in their needs and causes. We frequently offer our time, medical services and monetary donations to local schools, foundations, churches and more.”
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Top L to R: Savannah Johnson, Hannah Lee, Candice Stockstell, Robin Sanders, Victoria Vande Vegte, Michelle Villas, Danielle Price Middle L to R: Susan Steel, Elena Lacey and Christine Georgiades Bottom L to R: Emily Stewart Baker, Angela Akers, Erika Carrion, Brody, Cherice Tatum Not pictured: Allison Jeackjuntra, Operations Manager; Linda Grasso, Editor-In-Chief, Ventura Blvd magazine; Ajay Peckham, Creative Director; Laura Watts, Copy Editor
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Women in Business
MOON TIDE MEDIA 58 11th Street Hermosa Beach 310-376-7800 moontidemedia.com
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oon Tide Media is an LAbased content marketing company. The firm owns and operates a network of digital channels and lifestyle publications (including Southbay magazine) and helps leading brands, organizations and places use content to engage and motivate their audiences.
How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?
“We’re storytellers, and we’re experts at engaging audiences. We do that with our own magazines and digital media, and we do that for a lot of brands through our advertising and content marketing agency. What really sets us apart is our authentic approach to the content we create. First, we understand the audiences we serve, and then we create content— digital, print, social, film, or a combination of all—that really hits home.”
What would you like potential clients to know about you?
“We are a full service advertising agency and branded content studio. We create and distribute effective content on behalf of leading brands, and we help them take a strategic, story-driven approach to achieving their marketing and business objectives.”
What do you like to do for fun, when you’re not at work?
“The 12 of us are athletes, salsa dancers, musicians, live music fans, dedicated parents and fun-loving singles! Sure, we all work really hard, but you should know we love a party as well!”
Tell us a bit about your working style.
“Great media is an intensely collaborative enterprise, and our team works really well together. Everyone has a role to play, and we have a lot of respect for each other
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and what we individually bring to the team. When we work on a particular client’s campaign, we’re all in the mix with thoughts and opinions on how to make the best media for the client’s market.”
How do you build trust with your clients? “We specialize in crafting bright ideas that deliver real, measurable results. Sometimes these ideas are immediately apparent, while other times it takes a roomful of us (and a few cups of coffee) to brainstorm ‘the perfect marketing campaign.’ The takeaway: We never turn off our creative machines, and we take pride in doing what it takes to keep our clients (whom we also consider friends) satisfied.”
What is most rewarding about your work?
Hannah Lee, Brand Publisher: “I love working with our creative team to produce dynamic content for our clients. The reward is in seeing it develop from a mere idea to a styled, final product.” Robin Sanders, Senior Sales Executive: “I love being a part of a company that celebrates and brings the very best of what our communities have to offer to the public.” Savannah Johnson, Marketing Manager: “Providing businesses with the opportunity to connect with our community in an impactful way.” Elena Lacey, Graphic Designer: “Being a part of such a great community—both within Moon Tide Media and the South Bay!” Danielle Price, Digital Producer: “The stories I get to digitally share with our community give me chills on the daily. It is a privilege to facilitate spreading energy, inspiration, and creativity through our social media platforms.” Candice Stockstell, Sales Executive: “What’s most rewarding about my work is having the
flexibility, and the time to work with all of my clients on a personal level.” Angela Akers, Creative Director: “The collaboration and team effort allows for a fun working environment.” Michelle Villas, Art Director: “Using my love of typography to bring people’s stories to life.” Susan Steel, Account Executive: “I enjoy working in close collaboration with my clients to help them achieve their marketing goals!” Christine Georgiades, Graphic Designer: “I’m always excited to expand my creative abilities with new design challenges.” Cherice Tatum, Director of Marketing: “Pushing my creativity to new heights with a stellar team genuinely dedicated to our clients.” Laura Watts, Copy Editor: “It’s great to use the power of the word to convey so many fabulous things about this community and its people!” Victoria Vande Vegte, Account Executive: “Getting to spend every day in such a positive work environment and collaborate with our awesome clients to create something meaningful within the community.” Emily Stewart Baker, VP of Branded Media: “I love the creative and collaborative process with clients. Coming up with a solution to their marketing needs is a fun challenge, and seeing it well-executed is even better.” Erika Carrion, Account Executive: “I love building and nurturing client relationships and being a part of an amazing team and work environment is priceless.”
FAST FACT
Moon Tide is a lot more than Southbay magazine. The company publishes 15 digital and print titles, the majority of which are for leading brands that have hired them as their agency.
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H
oulé Law is a full-service criminal defense practice. Owner Lisa Houlé also handles select personal injury, wrongful death and civil rights cases. An attorney for the past 15 years, she opened Houlé Law this July.
How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?
LISA HOULÉ Attorney/Owner Houlé Law APC Manhattan Beach 424-332-9079 houle-law.com
“My practice is founded on the principles of Relationships, Respect and Results. Over the years, I’ve developed a reputation as a tenacious trial lawyer who fights for what I believe in. I established a strong professional relationship with South Bay law enforcement agencies and judges because of my work as a prosecutor. I was regularly called upon, in the early stages of criminal investigations, to give direction and advice to the police regarding their cases. My training and experience also allowed me to become a regular law enforcement instructor on case preparation and courtroom testimony.”
Tell us a bit about your working style.
“I take a holistic approach to my cases, because nothing can be understood when looked at from just one perspective. Every case has its own unique set of facts and circumstances. It is my obligation to determine what those circumstances are and then figure out how and why the crime, accident or death occurred. Freedom is priceless. If my client’s freedom could be taken away, even for a minute, they deserve that I put my whole heart and mind into their case.”
FAST FACT
Lisa worked as a prosecutor with the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office after graduating from Southwestern Law School and passing the California State Bar.
Who is your target client?
“Those who have been arrested, detained or charged with a crime OR who think they may later be arrested or charged with a crime, as well as those who have been harmed, injured or killed and someone else is responsible. Every minute counts in the early stages of an investigation or case. A good lawyer can sometimes prevent charges from being filed by bringing information to light before the decision is made to file charges. It could mean the difference between freedom and being locked up.”
What is most rewarding about your work?
“I thrive on helping people in times of crisis. Horrible, unexpected things happen all day long, all over the South Bay. Most people aren’t prepared for the unexpected; that is where I come in. When I can march into a courtroom with a member of our community who needs help and has chosen me to fight for them, that is the greatest reward.”
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inancial advisor Shannon Ryan has worked with individuals, families and businesses for more than two decades helping them make financial decisions. Shannon also enjoys giving back to her community as president-elect for Manhattan Beach Rotary and a Girl Scout leader. She served on the Manhattan Beach Host Town Committee for Special Olympics and is a member of the Leadership Manhattan Beach class of 2011.
How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?
“My passion for financial literacy and building financial strategies. To accomplish your financial goals you have to know why and what you are investing in. You also have to consider taxes, liquidity, estate planning and risks you will face on the path to your goals.”
What’s most rewarding about your work?
“Helping clients become financially confident.”
Tell us something unique about your business.
“In addition to being a financial advisor with Wells Fargo Advisors, I am an author, a public speaker and blogger on financial literacy for children.”
Why does your industry appeal to you?
“I have always been intrigued by money and financial literacy. Educating clients on strategies they can use to achieve their financial goals is very rewarding.”
FAST FACT
In addition to being a financial advisor, Shannon is an author, a public speaker and a blogger on financial literacy for children.
What are some of the challenges you have encountered being a female in your industry? How have you overcome those challenges?
SHANNON RYAN
CFP®, Financial Advisor/ Senior Vice President – Investments Ryan Wealth Management Group of Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, member SIPC 2321 Rosecrans Ave. El Segundo 310-725-2268 Shannon.t.ryan@wfadvisors.com S P E C I A L A DV E RT I S I N G S E CT I O N
“Twenty-two years ago when I started in Washington, D.C., I was one of two women in an office of 30+ advisors. It was a challenge at times. I remember being told that I do not ‘look’ like a financial advisor. I put my head down and worked hard—got my CFP and became one of the top advisors in the office. I am passionate about what I do, and the challenges of being a woman in a profession that is predominately men has only made me better.”
When did you move to this area?
“My husband grew up in Manhattan Beach, and I moved to the South Bay after we were married. I cannot imagine a better place to raise my children than in this amazing community.”
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APRIL BANDA Owner Malabella Studio 504 Center St El Segundo 310-625-6381 malabella.com
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pril Banda specializes in Brazilian waxing and Reiki Facials—a combination of serious skin care and energy healing. She has owned Malabella Studios ince 2006 and has worked at various other spas in the South Bay for the past decade.
Tell us a bit about your working style.
“I am very flexible during the week. I try to work around my clients’ busy work schedules to squeeze in a quick Brazilian wax during their lunch hours or while they have a babysitter.”
FAST FACT
April is a Reiki master and will soon start teaching small classes.
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How do you handle issues that are unique to the working female?
“Facials and waxing are not really a luxury for the busy women of the South Bay. It’s part of our monthly maintenance. I offer quick and gentle waxing services. But the one thing we often forget about is connecting with our spiritual side. So I created the Reiki facial to help reconnect with our inner selves while fixing skin issues.”
What’s most rewarding about your work? “I love that Reiki gives me a tool that can facilitate very deep inner healing that many of my clients are ready for. Issues like addiction, breakups, physical pain, depression and forgiveness can all be addressed with Reiki sessions if the client is ready to go deep.”
What does the future hold for your career?
“In the last year I have been building my Eyelash Extension business. It gives women a chance to lie down, completely relax, listen to a guided meditation if they choose, while their lashes get full, long and beautiful.”
When did you move to this area?
“I am originally from San Diego and have been living in the South Bay for close to 20 years.”
What do you like to do for fun, when you’re not at work?
“I am a big La Kings hockey fan. Both my kids, Matisse and Sevilla, have been Junior Kings since they were 5 years old, and they are now both teenagers. I love camping, fishing, yoga, meditation and going to concerts.”
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remier Bank of Palos Verdes is a fullservice community bank that specializes in financing for businesses, professionals and real estate investors. With more than 30 years of business marketing and sales experience, Julia Parton joined Premier Bank of Palos Verdes as Vice President of Corporate Development in August. She is responsible for planning, organizing and managing all marketing, community relations and business development functions to achieve company objectives of growth, visibility and service levels consistent with the bank’s mission. Julia is a Palos Verdes native and has worked in the South Bay her entire career— managing staff, marketing and strategic planning.
FAST FACT
Julia is a Palos Verdes native. She and her husband, Richard, both graduated from Rolling Hills High School and have two sons: Edward and James.
Tell us something unique about your business.
“Premier Bank of Palos Verdes places great importance on knowing their clients and understanding their unique challenges. Their corporate values and personalized service is truly commensurate to the environment in which I thrive, as a client and now as an employee. We help our clients achieve financial success—that’s what makes us different. At Premier, you work with experienced and dedicated bankers who are flexible and open-minded, offering innovative ideas and solutions delivering positive results. Their ability to make fast decisions (loan decisions are made locally) differentiates us from the one-size-fits-all banks.”
Tell us a bit about your working style.
“I am very passionate about helping others. I love to work in a professional yet friendly team environment. Premier was the perfect fit for me, as I found it all here. I am dedicated, loyal and sincere. I am always looking to support and connect people to help generate positive outcomes.”
How do you give back to your community?
JULIA PARTON
Vice President Corporate Development Premier Bank of Palos Verdes a division of Premier Business Bank 4A Peninsula Center Rolling Hills Estates 310-698-8400 ibankpremier.com
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“I enjoy volunteering and community service. It’s important to me, and I have met some brilliant mentors and great friends along the way. I am a long-time member and past president of the Rotary Club of Palos Verdes Peninsula. I have held numerous positions with several nonprofits and community service organizations, from high school sports to senior organizations. Today I proudly volunteer on the Salvation Army’s Crestmont College for Officer Training; Palos Verdes Concours d’Elegance; Palos Verdes Coordinating Council; and Freedom4U boards.”
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im Komick’s father was a talented builder, sparking her interest in the field early on. She worked with him from a young age and into her college years at USC. Kim started KKC Fine Homes in 1992 and builds custom and spec homes in the Sand Section of Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach.
What are some ways you provide top-notch customer service?
“We are always available for our clients and help them monitor their projects by keeping them engaged every step of the way. This helps us make decisions efficiently, eliminates costly revisions and keeps our project timeline on track. We only work in Manhattan and Hermosa, which keeps our team members close by and available for anything that comes up.”
How do you empathize with your customer in order to build his/her trust in you and your business?
“I have been in their shoes. I built myself a quality custom home 10 years ago while I was a working mom with two kids in school. I know the challenges that the process of building a custom home can have on a family. The key is to develop a strong relationship with my clients, listen to their desires and concerns, and never forget that this project will ultimately be their home.”
FAST FACT
Kim starts most days in the water—surfing, paddling or swimming. She enjoys spending time with her two teenage kids, Emma and Andy, and can often be spotted cruising The Strand and hanging around town with friends.
What does the future hold for your career?
“I want to continue working with the great architects in the area to bring cutting-edge style and design to the Sand Section. After having the most prolific year of my career, I am focusing on finding new properties and new opportunities. In the near future we are excited to be finishing up several projects, including a cutting-edge commercial building on 21st and PCH that has a roof garden and amazing interiors. It was designed by the late Pat Killen of Studio 9one2. We just finished another of his masterpieces at 435 25th Street, Hermosa Beach. I am so grateful to have worked with him on several projects; he will be greatly missed. In addition, we will be bringing out two new contemporary townhomes designed by Larry Peha at 1220 Cypress, two townhomes under construction at 814 Highland Avenue designed by Doug Leach, and a modern home designed by Jon Starr at 216 28th Street. It has been an amazing year, and I am excited as I move forward.”
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KIM KOMICK
General Contractor/Owner KKC Fine Homes 3216 Manhattan Avenue, Suite E Hermosa Beach 310-372-6027 KKCdevelopment.com
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Women in Business
KELLY GUTSHALL, RN JERAMIE BHATIA, PA-C DONNA DUFFY, RN Marcus Medical Spa 1815 Via El Prado Redondo Beach 310-316-1400 marcusmedicalspa.com
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arcus Medical Spa owner Dr. Keith Marcus is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon who works side-byside with his team of physician assistants, nurses and aestheticians to provide both short-term and long-term cosmetic solutions. Nurse Kelly Gutshall joined Marcus Medical Spa three years ago and nurse Donna Duffy two years ago. Physician assistant Jeramie Bhatia started with the practice recently.
Why do you charge Botox per area and not by the unit?
“We don’t view Botox as a commodity that is purchased by the unit; we view it as a high-end service that delivers an undeniable result. Our prices reflect the expertise of the practitioners that administer our treatments and are not determined by the competitive market landscape. Dr. Marcus travels the nation and has trained hundreds of physicians on expert injectable techniques.”
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What is your approach to aesthetics?
“We try to emulate Nordstrom and The French Laundry. A steak prepared at The French Laundry may be the same cut as another restaurant but is going to merit more due to its precise execution and the overall experience of the patron. If we don’t deliver on our promise, we honor ‘the customer is always right’ approach that Nordstrom has so successfully implemented. Our goal is to ALWAYS deliver an amazing experience with the only priorities being five-star service and incredible results.”
What concern do you frequently hear from clients?
Kelly: “The greatest concern of new clients, especially those who are new to aesthetic treatments, is that they don’t want to look ‘overdone.’ They don’t want people to know they have had ‘work’ done but would rather obtain an appearance that is rested, refreshed and youthful.”
FAST FACT
The physician assistants and nurses at Marcus Medical Spa each have an average of 10+ years experience in aesthetic medicine.
Tell us about your working style.
Jeramie: “Oftentimes my clients ask me to tell them what I think they need, but I much prefer to put a mirror in their hand and have them tell me what they see. I want to focus on what will make them feel better each day when they look in the mirror.”
What’s most rewarding about your work? Donna: “Facilitating the connection of mind and body. When clients look better, they feel more confident about themselves and when people feel more confident, they actually look better!”
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he office of Dr. Michael Z. Hopkins is a full-service dental practice with a comfortable beach vibe. Over the past 25 years, the team has been committed to the highest level of quality dental care by constantly updating their skills and knowledge through extensive continuing education programs, as well as investing in the most advanced dental materials and technology. Dr. Barbara Kane has been practicing dentistry since 2010 and joined this office in 2011.
What would you like potential clients to know about you?
“I am a compassionate person who truly cares about delivering the best quality of care to all of her patients. I really enjoy getting to know our patients and am dedicated to tailoring treatment to each person’s individual and unique needs.”
How would your clients describe you?
“Someone who takes the time to sit down and talk to them and who practices dentistry with the utmost integrity. I really focus on educating my patients about their dental health and how it may connect to their overall general health and well-being. I explain procedures step-by-step so my clients not only feel at ease, but also so they may better understand the reason for the treatment and care they are receiving.”
Tell us about your family.
“I have a small, close-knit family. My father is a dentist, and I enjoy working with him one day per week at his office in Ventura County. It is very special to share this wonderful profession with him and to hear him call me his colleague, since I have always looked up to him. My mom used to work as a nurse, I have a younger brother who lives in San Francisco, and I am currently planning my wedding to the love of my life this September!”
FAST FACT
Dr. Kane completed her undergraduate studies at UCLA and then obtained her DMD degree from Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. She completed her general practice residency at LA County USC Medical Center.
How do you give back to the community?
“One of the programs that our office participates in is Solace for the Children, which establishes international partnerships providing dental care and education for children of war-torn countries—many who have never in their entire lives visited the dentist. It is an incredible experience getting to know these children, hearing their stories first-hand and seeing their faces light up with gratitude and appreciation.”
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DR. BARBARA KANE
Associate Dentist Dr. Michael Z. Hopkins Dental Office 1706 S. Elena Ave., Suite B Redondo Beach 310-378-9241 DocHopkins.com Facebook.com/DrHopkinsDental
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Women in Business
AMANDA DEWYSOCKI, RN Owner ModernArt MedSpa & Salon 1620 Aviation Blvd. Redondo Beach 310-374-7878 modernartspa.com
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odernArt MedSpa & Salon is a full-service medical spa and hair salon offering cosmetic injectables, laser treatments, PRP, facials, waxing, eyelash extensions and eyebrow embroidery. The salon is currently celebrating its one-year anniversary. Owner Amanda deWysocki is an aesthetic nurse specialist with advanced training in a wide variety of cosmetic and anti-aging procedures.
curities, feeling inadequate or doubting their own self worth has been an incredibly validating and rewarding experience. I receive so many heartfelt messages from clients thanking me, telling me how much they love their face, skin, etc., how young, beautiful or confident they feel, or how happy they are that the outside finally matches the inside.”
Why does your industry appeal to you?
“One question I get asked a lot is how my daughter feels about what I do, and if I’m worried that she’ll become too focused on her appearance and develop an unhealthy self-image. It’s something I talk to her about on a regular basis. She has watched me build an entire career on making people look good. But because I’m so hyper-aware of the potentially damaging messages I could be sending, I compensate by constantly encouraging her to cultivate skills in other, more meaningful aspects
“Throughout most of my childhood I suffered from severe eczema, a skin condition that resulted in disfiguring, dry, scaly lesions all over my legs and feet. I didn’t grow out of the eczema until well into junior high, but by then the foundation was laid for a lifetime battle with insecurity and self-image issues. I was drawn to this industry largely because of my own experience. Finding myself in a career that allows me to help other people dealing with similar inse-
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How do you help your daughter maintain a healthy self-image?
of life. I make sure she hears me talk about limits and moderation, and how important it is not to lose your individuality. I think it is more imperative than ever that we are mindful of the messages we send young girls.”
What do you like to do for fun, when you’re not at work?
“My daughter, Francesca (“Francie”), and I do just about everything together. When we’re not busy with school and work, we love to travel and do yoga together, listen to music, sing, dance and play at the beach.”
FAST FACT
Amanda holds multiple certifications in advanced injectable techniques, laser procedures and PRP and is an adjunct clinical instructor for National Laser Institute’s Cosmetic Injectables courses.
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JENNIFER CARAS
Realtor® Vista Sotheby’s International Realty 2501 N. Sepulveda Blvd. Manhattan Beach 310-367-9129
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native of Los Angeles, Jennifer Caras attended Marymount High School and continued her education at UCSB, where she graduated with a degree in psychology. She spent five years working in the pharmaceutical industry in sales and management before making the transition to her real estate career 11 years ago. In 2004 she joined South Bay Brokers, which merged with Vista Sotheby’s International Realty this year. Jennifer sells homes in the South Bay— primarily in Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, Redondo Beach and Palos Verdes Estates. She’s also involved in development of new construction homes.
How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?
“Unlike some of my competitors, I put my emphasis on quality of transactions versus quantity of transactions. My clients really appreciate that they work directly with me
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and that I personally handle every part of their valued transaction. I am their point of contact and always reachable for them throughout the process. Communication between all parties while in escrow is a critical component to a successful transaction and a satisfied client.”
FAST FACT
Jennifer has been a Top Producer at her company for the last several years, finishing as the #7 Top Producing Agent last year.
Would you share a recent customer review?
“My customer wrote: ‘It is no coincidence that Jen is one of the top brokers in the South Bay. Buying a house in the South Bay is not easy, and it’s all about having an edge to see off-market homes and pocket listings. Jen patiently stayed
with us for three years while we looked hard for our perfect new home. We would not have found our perfect new home without her. Jen’s honesty and integrity is invaluable.’”
What would you like potential clients to know about you?
“I’m committed to providing the highest quality of service in each and every step of the transaction. I pride myself on being consistent, reliable and approachable. The majority of my clients are referrals; the recommendation from a past client is the highest compliment an agent can receive.”
Tell us about your family.
“I’m the proud mother to three children: my son, CJ, 9, and identical twin daughters, Julianne and Grace, 7, who all attend American Martyrs School. My husband, Chris, works in commercial real estate brokerage and real estate development here in the South Bay.”
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Women in Business
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ealtor® and licensed broker Lori Herold has been working in the South Bay since 1989. She is a member of Vista Sotheby’s International Realty.
Why does your industry appeal to you?
“First, because of the amazing people I have the privilege and opportunity to work with and help while purchasing or selling a home or land. The individuals and families bring their excitement and their questions, and I bring my knowledge of the market, enthusiasm, a listening ear, persistence, negotiating skills. Together we collaborate to make it happen. Secondly, I am fortunate to see some of the most beautiful architecture in the South Bay and world. However, the most important and priceless are the friendships and relationships that have been made along the way and continue to be cultivated.”
LORI HEROLD
Realtor®, Licensed Broker South Bay 310-567-7771 loriherold.com
How would your clients describe you?
“As my client Earl R.D. said, ‘Highly recommend working with this individual. She finds the product, a buyer or a seller, and goes after it until the job is finished. Would do business with her again in a heartbeat.’”
How do you give back to your community?
“Giving back to the community is natural for me. To name a few of the charities or needs met, volunteering my time and/or donating money: Habitat for Humanity; Feed the Children; fundraising for flood victims in Iowa; World Vision; feeding the hungry in Los Angeles; The Compton Initiative, 40-year plan; scholarships for Mira Costa High seniors; The Braille Trail in Polliwog Park; Royal Family Kids; and United States Veterans Memorial Fund.”
What do you like to do for fun, when you’re not at work?
“One of my most favorites is swimming, whether swimming laps or hanging out in the deep water synchronize swimming, the splash of cold water on my face, the competition, the art of pointing the toes and swimming without making a splash is both fun and rewarding. In addition, listening to an orchestra, a solo violinist or solo pianist. I enjoy riding my bicycle along The Strand; reading a good book; walking in the rain or fresh snow fall; going skiing in fresh powder, seeing the majestic beauty of the mountains and later enjoying a cup of hot chocolate; spending time with family and friends over dinner.” Cal BRE #01052871
FAST FACT
Lori was the 2014 President of Women’s Council of Realtors South Bay.
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hysicians Choice Home Health, Inc. provides home health skilled nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, medical social workers and certified home health aide services. CEO Shari Sunada is also an author of a program called Making Memories—a home visit program that helps families and patients deal with the onset of dementia by provided practical information, processes, coping skills, support and cognitive exercise/stimulation.
SHARI SUNADA
CEO/Administrator Physicians Choice Home Health, Inc. 3220 Sepulveda Blvd., Suite 100 Torrance 310 793-1616 PCHomeHealth.com
How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?
“Our philosophy is ‘Quality care one patient at a time.’ We believe that every patient is unique and our treatment/care must be patient-centered to the individual’s/family’s need.
How do you advise your clients to achieve and maintain success?
“When it comes to rehabilitation at home, the participation of patient and family members is very important in the patient’s recovery. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.”
How do you handle issues that are unique to the working female?
“People often ask me how do I balance between work and family. It’s not a balancing act; it’s not 50/50 or 60/40. I treat work as if it’s one of my children—100% focus when I’m there, and when I’m at home it’s 100% to my family. I do balance my full days with getting together with friends over dinner and social activities. You will often find me on the tennis court getting my exercise in, both physically and mentally.”
How do you give back to your community?
“I’m an active board member of Vistas For Children, a local philanthropic organization helping children in need.”
FAST FACT
Shari is married to Craig, an attorney. They have two daughters: Lindsay, 19, and Katie, 15.
What’s most rewarding about your work?
“I understand the need of families when it comes to caring for their loved ones. Every family is different; every patient’s needs are unique. I love it when I receive calls from patients and family members to tell me how my nurses and therapists saved their mother/ father and how appreciative they are for their care and compassion. Patients heal better and quicker when you treat them with respect and understanding.”
What is your advice for young working women?
“Have passion in all that you do. You can’t fake it, and you can’t buy it. Find your passion, and then give it 100%.”
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Women in Business BARBI PAPPAS Realtor® Shorewood Realtors 3300 Highland Ave. Manhattan Beach 310-266-3300 barbipappas.com
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ith more than $30 million in annual sales, Barbi Pappas is consistently recognized as one of the top solo producing agents at Shorewood Realtors, which is one of the top 100 brokerage firms in the United States. After graduating from college, she migrated from the Midwest to Manhattan Beach and joined the company in 1986. She specializes in residential, income/investment and commercial properties.
What would you like potential clients to know about you?
“‘Representing your home, as if it were your own’ is not just another empty slogan to me. It states the responsibility I feel in handling one of life’s most important transactions. Although the internet has dramatically changed the way real estate is sold today, buying and selling property continues to remain a people-to-people business.”
FAST FACT
Barbi donates to NPR, PBS, American Cancer Society’s Discovery Shop and Walk with Sally. She annually works a booth at the Manhattan Beach Hometown Fair, and a portion of every commission she earns supports local schools.
How do you advise your clients to achieve and maintain success?
“Knowing what styling changes will resonate with buyers and give the greatest return to my sellers is critical. Prior to my listings going to market, I’m involved with my sellers in every decision, such as updating lighting or hardware or advising on paint color, staging and landscaping. These simple improvements often bring multiple offers and a sales price that is well over the list price.”
Tell us a bit about your working style.
“When listing a home, I love creating an individual theme for each house, which carries through in the advertising, print work and a video for the home. It’s important to stand out in the vast sea of real estate advertising. With the use of a unique word or a good catchphrase, my goal is to capture a buyer’s imagination, compelling them to visit the property.”
How would your clients describe you?
“I was recently described in a testimonial by one client as ‘a born networker, who through the years has built a tapestry of contacts and relationships that she leverages to provide her clients with otherwise unachievable results.’ Such kind words inspire and reinforce that treating clients, co-workers and service people with respect ultimately creates longevity in business with tangible results.”
What’s most rewarding about your work?
“I never could have anticipated how many of my long-time clients would become lifelong friends. Their appreciation for the help I’ve given them has been given back to me tenfold over the years.”
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PATTY SULLIVAN
Realtor® Vista Sotheby’s International 608 Silver Spur Rd., Suite 103 Palos Verdes Peninsula 310-418-7906 palosverdes-beachcities-homes.com
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ealtor Patty Sullivan represents buyers and sellers in the purchase or sale of their home, primarily on the Palos Verdes Peninsula as well as San Pedro and the Beach Cities. She grew up in the business—her father was a real estate broker who owned his own company, and all of her siblings have worked in the industry. Patty has been an active licensed Realtor for more than a decade and joined Vista Sotheby’s International in 2014.
How do you empathize with your clients?
“I believe the buying and selling of a home is the single most important, exciting and challenging transaction any of us go through. For most people, a home represents their largest asset, and so great thought and consideration must be given to the purchase or sale of their property. Having experienced this process a number of times myself, I’ve never lost the sensitivity necessary to blend my professionalism
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with my understanding of the significance of the sale or purchase of someone’s home.”
How would your clients describe you?
“I hope my clients see me as a dedicated professional with a committed interest on their behalf through every part of the purchase or sale of their home. I believe that my clients also appreciate the rapport I have with fellow associates. Creating a cooperative relationship with the agent representing the other side helps all of the negotiations go more smoothly, which serves everyone’s best interest.”
What are some of the ways you provide top-notch service?
“From marketing one’s home to closing escrow, every detail of the transaction and ongoing negotiations is important. I work to make sure my client understands that they are my priority, and I’m am always available to address their concerns and their needs. The
added advantage of marketing a property with Sotheby’s cannot be understated. I am able to provide the most extraordinary marketing materials and international exposure possible for my clients and their unique property.”
FAST FACT
Patty has earned the following designations: P.V. Specialist, Accredited Buyer Representative, Senior Real Estate Specialist and Certified Negotiation Expert.
How do you give back to your community? “Living in the South Bay offers many opportunities for community involvement, and while I have always been active in this regard, it has been my greatest privilege to serve as a trustee to the Foundation of Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center for more than 15 years.”
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Women in Business
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ummer Orthodontics specializes in creating smiles for children and adults. Dr. Summer Blake and her team employ the latest in proven, cutting-edge technology, such as invisible braces, metal braces, clear braces and digital imaging. Dr. Summer completed dental school at UCLA and earned her master’s and her post-doctoral orthodontics certificate at Temple University in Philadelphia. She has been specializing in orthodontics for more than a decade.
What would you like potential patients to know about you?
“Delivering the highest quality treatment is my top priority. Every decision I make in my practice is based upon one simple rule: Will this decision improve the patient experience?”
FAST FACT
Dr. Summer works hard to create an atmosphere that is not only relaxing and stress-free but also fun—for adults as well as younger patients. Her office offers an ocean view, iPads in the reception area and activities and contests for patients.
What trend is defining your specialty today?
“The technology available in modern orthodontic care has dramatically improved the patient experience. Increased patient comfort, reduced treatment time and less visible treatment options are the results of these advances. In fact, many adults are opting for orthodontic treatment who never would have considered it before.”
What’s most rewarding about your work?
“Seeing the confidence patients exude from their new smile is really rewarding. However, I also enjoy getting to know each patient throughout their treatment.”
How do you give back to your community?
“We support a variety of community programs as diverse as the interests of our patient base. From education to sports to arts, we are engaged in supporting programs that put our patients’ beautiful smiles to good use throughout the South Bay.”
What would you like potential clients to know about you?
SUMMER L. BLAKE, DDS, MS Orthodontist/Owner Summer Orthodontics
451 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Suite D-224 Manhattan Beach 310-545-0770 summerorthodontics.com
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“It is never too late to have a confident smile. More than 40% of our patients are adults. Advancements in technology can not only dramatically reduce treatment time (in some cases by as much as 50%) but can also offer a variety of hidden and inconspicuous treatment options.”
What do you like to do for fun, when you’re not at work? “Spending time with my family is what I like to do most. I also enjoy Pilates, yoga, cooking and travel. My husband, Matt, and I have three children—two wonderful daughters, Ahnika, 7, Tegan, 4, and our big boy, Briggs, 2. It is a very exciting time for our family!”
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roker Associate Rachel Ezra was born and raised in Tel Aviv, Israel, and moved to Los Angeles in 1987. She started her career in commercial real estate more than 13 years ago, specializing in multi-family apartment buildings. After moving to the South Bay, she veered into residential real estate while still specializing in investment properties. She resides in Manhattan Beach with her husband and twins and enjoys the city and everything it has to offer.
RACHEL EZRA Broker Associate Shorewood Realtors 916 Manhattan Ave. Manhattan Beach 310-400-0297 RachelEzra.com
How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?
“I have a strong work ethic and unparalleled dedication to my clients. My team and I are committed to providing extraordinary customer service, and we strive to make selling and purchasing real estate an enjoyable and stressfree experience.”
What question or concern do you frequently hear from clients?
“‘What would you do if you were me?’ My answer is always: ‘I’m here to guide and advise you to make an educated decision; however ultimately the decision is yours.’”
How do you advise your clients to achieve and maintain success?
“Strategic decisions in real estate will yield incredible returns, especially here in the South Bay. When you have the right real estate advisor in your corner, realizing your dreams is within your reach. My mission is to provide my clients with excellent customer service, accurate information and guidance. Maintaining high-quality service is most important to me.”
FAST FACT
Rachel started her real estate career in commercial real estate. She specializes in multifamily apartment buildings.
Tell us about your family.
“I’ve been married to my husband for 5-1/2 years, and we have 15-month-old twins Nathaniel and Ariel (boy and girl). They are the light in our lives.”
Who is your target client?
“I have a vast variety of clients—from first-time buyers to foreign investors, doctors, entertainment professionals, attorneys, bankers, engineers, entrepreneurs, generation X and Y, baby boomers and retirees.”
How would your clients describe you?
“Some of my reviews have stated: ‘Rachel Ezra is smart, creative and honest—unusual qualities in a real estate agent’ and ‘Wonderfully clever, positive, dedicated, efficient, energetic, solution oriented and a pleasure to work with.’”
Why does your industry appeal to you?
“I’m very lucky to have a job that I love in a place that is as close to paradise as you can get. When you love what you do and do what you love, it’s not considered work.”
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Women in Business MAUREEN MCBRIDE Owner Tabula Rasa Essentials & YORKTOWN 919A/E Manhattan Avenue Manhattan Beach 310-318-3385 tabularasamb.com yorktownmb.com
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abula Rasa Essentials celebrated its 15-year anniversary in May, and as part of the celebration owner Maureen McBride opened YORKTOWN, a home décor/“found” objects destination store. Prior to becoming a Downtown Manhattan Beach business owner, Maureen worked for 18 years as a senior executive in the fashion industry, most recently as a Director for Disney and VP for Lucky Brand Dungarees.
What would you like potential clients to know about you?
“While Tabula Rasa Essentials launched a new career and a new beginning for me personally in 2000, YORKTOWN now encapsulates my East Coast childhood as well as the global influences I absorbed traveling the world. YORKTOWN is SHORE + SHELTER + SANCTUARY: it’s a nod to the ‘other’ coast; all about one’s dwelling, retreat or haven; and ultimately one’s most treasured space.”
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Maureen recently received the Friendship Award from Walk With Sally for her nine years of mentoring Isabel, whom she met when she was in 3rd grade.
Tell us something unique about your business.
“Supporting individual artisans and showcasing their talents has always been important to me. With YORKTOWN, we are featuring amazing artisans and ‘found objects’ from around the world. We are developing relationships with villages in countries like Nepal where we know our collaboration is making a difference and allowing small communities and local artisans near and far to prosper and grow.”
What’s most rewarding about your work?
“We have always sought out new and emerging trends, and with that comes new and emerging talent. I love when we find an artist or product that ‘hits’— that grabs our interest and immediately attracts the vast clientele we appeal to. It is such a thrill when we showcase a product that becomes bigger than we ever imagined. The success of our artists and our brands drives me every day and makes me dream bigger! I think about what’s next … what can be … always looking ahead.”
How do you give back to your community?
“We create special events, donate products for auctions and volunteer for our schools, churches and local charities. When YORKTOWN opened, we gave $1,000 to the Special Olympics. Last month, along with the generosity of some very special clients and vendors, I proudly presented a check for $14,500 to Walk With Sally for Fred’s Future in the name of my dad for their Young Leaders Scholarship Program.”
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utchinson Dental is a family dental practice that can accommodate a variety of dental needs. The team, led by owner Dr. Christina L. Hutchinson, performs general dentistry procedures, cosmetic dentistry, management of sleep disorders and care for TMD issues. Dr. Hutchinson has been practicing dentistry for more than 12 years.
What would you like potential patients to know about you?
CHRISTINA L. HUTCHINSON, DDS Owner Hutchinson Dental 512 Main Street, #4 El Segundo 310-640-2025 hutchinsondds.com
“I pride myself in being available and taking care of them in the most conservative and predictable way that I can. We can provide many treatment options for a variety of needs—sometimes patients don’t even know what that means until they find themselves with a broken tooth and a plane to catch in two hours. I find one of the more exciting aspects of dentistry is finding a creative solution to unique situations.”
Why does your industry appeal to you?
“I initially fell in love with dentistry because I found it to be an appealing mixture of health sciences and artistry. The further into my career I got, the more complex and multi-faceted I realized modern dentistry truly is! Now I see it as a constant balancing act between health, prevention and patient education, artistry, function and predictability.”
What question do you frequently hear from clients?
“Patients are always asking if certain treatments are covered by their insurance. Our front office team is well-versed at insurance and can quickly learn what benefits are available to them so they can plan and get the treatment they need.”
FAST FACT
Dr. Hutchinson graduated magna cum laude in 1999 from the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma and in 2003 from the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry. She completed a general dentistry residency at UCLA.
How do you advise your clients to achieve and maintain success?
“Although we prefer to tailor the frequency patients are seen for ‘routine’ dental cleaning appointments, it is so important that patients have their teeth cleaned at least twice per year and an exam at least once per year. If we find something that needs to be treated, often it’s easier and less expensive to take care of things before time turns it into a larger procedure.”
What do you like to do for fun, when you’re not at work? “When I’m not working, I’m with my husband and our dog. We love to travel, and we try to get away for a long weekend every now and then to either revisit places we love or discover some place new.”
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S P E C I A L A DV E RT I S I N G S E CT I O N
Women in Business
T
he Carla Ramirez Insurance Agency helps individuals and businesses confidently plan for the future ahead by providing insurance products and advice to guard against potential financial loss. Owner Carla Ramirez opened the firm in 2005. She attended Chadwick School in Palos Verdes and earned her bachelor’s degree in economics from Claremont McKenna College.
How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?
“Education on coverage is our #1 priority. There is a tremendous amount of variance across policy contracts, optional endorsements and exclusions that most people are not aware of. We make sure our customers are fully aware of the insurance they are purchasing, and we strive to close any gaps in their existing protection.”
What would you like potential clients to know about you?
“We have a great group of licensed representatives working in our agency, most of whom are bilingual and also fluent in Spanish. We specialize in real estate, business and life insurance, and also offer various health insurance, annuities, college and retirement savings products to round out our clients’ insurance portfolios.” ** ***
When did you move to this area?
“My family moved to the South Bay from Lima, Peru, in 1988 when I was 5. I grew up watching my mother go from working part-time, minimum wage jobs while attending community college to becoming a successful real estate agent. She dedicated most of her time working to put my brother and me through private schools. Watching her drive, her hard work and her achievements directly affect the life that I was afforded has immensely shaped who I am. I love empowering women to gain the confidence and the drive to go after what they want in life.”
Why does your industry appeal to you?
“I really enjoy watching people achieve their dreams. In insurance, you are not only growing with your team, but you get to grow with your clients. I get to share in our clients’ achievements and in their excitement when they buy a new car or house, for example. I love being a part of so many people’s lives. A lot of my clients are also my really good friends. It’s a very rewarding career.”
CARLA RAMIREZ Owner/CEO Carla Ramirez Insurance Agency, Inc.
3201 N. Sepulveda Blvd. #F Manhattan Beach 310-545-1027 farmersagent.com/cramirez2
S P E C I A L A DV E RT I S I N G S E CT I O N
*CA License #0H64751 **Life insurance issued by Farmers New World Life Insurance Company, 3003 77th Ave SE, Mercer Island, WA 98040. ***Securities offered through Farmers Financial Solutions, LLC, 30801 Agoura Rd. Bldg. 1 Agoura Hills, CA 91301. Member FINRA & SIPC
FAST FACT
Carla loves sports. She was a gymnast as a child and a softball player in college. Now she enjoys playing USTA and Marine League Tennis.
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Women in Business L to R: Kathleen Hogan, Ian McDonald, Shelley Church, Jay McDonald
KATHLEEN HOGAN
First Vice President-Investment Officer McDonald Wealth Advisory Group of Wells Fargo Advisors LLC
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ells Fargo Advisors provides investment advice and guidance to clients across the U.S., combining the capabilities and best practices of a large, national firm with the client focus of a smaller firm. As a member of The McDonald Wealth Advisory Group, Kathleen Hogan helps a select group of individuals, families, businesses and foundations build, manage, preserve and transition wealth. She is a 27year veteran of the financial services industry.
FAST FACT
Kathleen grew up Palos Verdes, attended college in San Diego and has lived in the South Bay since graduating. She currently lives in Manhattan Beach.
How do you advise your clients to achieve and maintain success?
“Our investment planning process involves addressing the concept of critical financial events—anything that pertains to and affects a client’s finances, now or in the
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500 Silver Spur Rd., Suite 300 Rolling Hills Estates 310-377-1942 800-541-4377 future. Our purpose is to cushion the effects of the critical financial events in their lives to help them stay on track and continue to progress toward their specific financial goals.”
Who is your target client?
“Our clients are advocates for our business. Some of them have been with us for more than 30 years. The majority of our clientele are successful entrepreneurs, long-time South Bay extended families and retired professionals. They appreciate the added value that our trusted advisory team brings to their financial success.”
What’s most rewarding about your work? “I enjoy helping clients feel in control and empowered about their financial well-being. For some clients, just getting started is the hardest part. Once they become more educated about their finances, choosing the strategy that is best for them comes more easily and they feel more secure about their family’s financial future. I am honored to be a part of that process.”
What do you like to do for fun, when you’re not at work?
“I enjoy traveling with my family and friends. I take my niece and nephew on a trip every year with my sister. We started this tradition when they were kids, and they are now both in college. We have seen a lot of the USA and are now working on our list of European countries. I will be traveling to Italy in September to see some of the sights I missed the first time I was there. They always say you have to leave something to do in each city you visit so you have a reason to go back.” Disclaimer: Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, Member SIPC, is a registered broker-dealer and a separate non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. Investment and Insurance products: NOT FDIC-Insured, NO Bank Guarantee, MAY Lose Value
S P E C I A L A DV E RT I S I N G S E CT I O N
Women in Business
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r. Mercedeh Baghai’s South Bay surgical practice specializes in general, breast, bariatric and minimally invasive GI surgery. Dr. Baghai earned her medical degree at the University of California, San Francisco. Dr. Baghai opened her own firm in March 2009.
Do you think that trusting your instincts is important in order to grow your business?
“Absolutely. Not many physicians who run medical practices have a business background. Most are apprehensive of the challenges of running a business. I have developed an instinct as to what works and what doesn’t. Both in surgery as well as the business side, my success is determined partly by my training and preparation and partly by my ability to instinctually think on my feet and solve problems.”
What’s most rewarding about your work?
“Unlike primary care providers, as a surgeon, I typically meet my patient at a very stressful juncture in their lives. I have a brief opportunity during the initial encounter to reassure them and gain their trust to put their lives in my hands. I think of my job as two-fold: first, to perform the best technical operation possible, and second, to comfort and support my patient and their family. Both aspects are a huge privilege, honor and responsibility that I take very seriously with every single patient.”
Why do you think you have been successful?
“The key to my success has been a combination of us trying to provide caring, personable, quality surgical care as well as having a strong community and physician referral base that has given me incredible support. Last but not least, we have well-informed, discriminating patients in the South Bay who tend to do their research and take charge of their health care. Very often we find patients who ‘choose’ to see me in spite of their insurance plan restrictions. This is a huge compliment to our practice and an indication that we are providing a great service to the community.”
What do you like to do for fun, when you’re not at work?
MERCEDEH BAGHAI, MD Surgeon/Owner
23600 Telo Avenue, Suite 150 Torrance 310-602-5002 baghaibariatrics@gmail.com
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“I’m a ‘sports fanatic’ and avidly follow professional basketball, football and hockey. On any given night (between October and May) there’s a good chance you’d find me at the Staples Center, cheering on the Clippers, Lakers or Kings.”
FAST FACT
Dr. Baghai performed a residency in general surgery at the Mayo Clinic and a laparoscopic fellowship at Atlanta’s Emory University.
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Women in Business
C
aroline Burke Designs and Associates, Inc. (CBD) is a boutique interior design company comprised of four full-time staff members plus numerous subcontractors who work with the team daily. CBD offers design/ build services, assisting owners with all the decisions that builders and architects require. They also offer services such as decorating, concept, design, space planning, color, fabric selection, window treatments and furniture. Caroline Burke started the firm in 2008 and has been working as a designer since 2000.
What makes your company unique in the South Bay?
“I run my design company as a real business. We are organized, professional, specific and highly detailed. We make our proposals and paperwork very clear so there are no surprises, and we are accountable for all expenses to the client. Additionally, we have a great office with in-house resources, including a huge library of sources such as fabrics, rugs and furniture.”
Who is your target client?
“Our target clients are people starting to build their new home who need help making the numerous design decisions that are required. We work hand-inhand with the architect and builder to make sure the outcome is exactly what the client envisions for their lifestyle. We also want clients who have either just purchased a new home and need decorating services or perhaps someone who has lived in a home for a while and wants to refresh with new furniture and window treatments.”
FAST FACT
Caroline earned a degree in economics at Skidmore College and London School of Economics and studied interior design at UCLA.
What are some ways you provide top-notch customer service?
“I believe in a team effort to get the projects done properly, creatively and professionally. All the ladies in my office are full-time professionals. I have an office manager, another designer and a junior designer all ready to assist our clients.”
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
“To see how it really changes lives. People are happier and healthier in the environments that we create for them. They always come home and love to be there.”
How do you give back to your community?
“I am on the Foundation Board of Trustees for the Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center. We are currently focused on fundraising for a new cardiovascular department. This hospital is an excellent hospital in our community, and we are dedicated to making it stronger every year.”
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CAROLINE BURKE President/Lead Designer Caroline Burke Designs and Associates, Inc.
1020 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Suite 210 Manhattan Beach 310-546-6862 carolineburkedesigns.com
S P E C I A L A DV E RT I S I N G S E CT I O N
Women in Business
C
laudia Marroquin a commercial and residential Realtor with Remax Estates Properties. She is also an account executive for Delta Computer Consulting, Inc.—an information technology staffing firm. Claudia has a bachelor’s degree in business administration and master’s degrees in both marketing and international protocol. She serves on the advisory boards for PACT LA and Walk with Sally.
How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?
“I have had broad experience in a variety of industries and have had the pleasure to work with all types of people, businesses and cultures. This has enabled me to understand and to cater to diverse and different clients, by listening and understanding their unique needs.”
What would you like potential clients to know about you?
“I am a diligent, honest and tireless worker, and I do my utmost to address my clients’ needs and wishes. I always have their best interest at heart. If my clients are satisfied, everything else will take care of itself.”
How do you handle issues that are unique to the working female?
“I look at those issues as an opportunity and turn them into an advantage. Many males work in the commercial real estate and IT industries. I feel that by embracing being a woman, I can distinguish myself from my competition while still being feminine.”
In today’s world of social media, do you feel your clients are motivated by emotions and feelings of connection?
“Absolutely; it is all about relationships. More than ever it’s about how you make others feel. People may forget what you did for them, but they will never forget how you made them feel.”
Why does your work appeal to you?
“I love working with people and helping them with their challenges. I am also fascinated by their stories, their backgrounds and how they have overcome adversity in their lives to be where they are today.”
What are some ways you provide top-notch customer service?
CLAUDIA T. MARROQUIN Realtor/Owner CTM Service P.O. Box 1015 Hermosa Beach 888-506-8114 ctmsells.com
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“I respond promptly and professionally; it does not matter what time or day it is. I am honest about what I know and don’t know. I really appreciate that clients put their trust in me when selling or buying a property, which in most cases is their most valuable possession.”
FAST FACT
Claudia was an etiquette teacher for children and businesses for more than 14 years and is currently writing children’s songs.
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eorge is a Real Estate Broker specializing in South Bay properties. She is a South Bay native living in Palos Verdes.
How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?
“By being proactive and incredibly responsive. I am passionate about real estate, so I constantly study the market and network with other professionals to find great opportunities for my clients. When my clients are contemplating a move, I put myself in their shoes and always try to anticipate their needs and questions. This translates into a high level of engagement and hands on involvement, both day and night.”
GEORGIANA “GEORGE” ROSENKRANZ, JD
Licensed Broker, Realtor® Keller Williams Palos Verdes 310-717-8767 George@GeorgeSellsTheSouthBay.com
FAST FACT
When she’s not working and can get away, George enjoys skiing, hiking and biking in Mammoth with her family.
What would you like potential clients to know about you?
“We are in this together; before, during and after the transaction. I always strive to provide exceptional service and that service does not end with the close of escrow. Plus, every step of the way I will protect your interests AND your pocketbook!”
Why does your industry appeal to you and what about it aligns well with your experience?
“I love being a Realtor working in the South Bay communities that mean so much to me. Being born and raised here, I know the market inside and out. I am also a ‘recovering lawyer.’ After practicing transactional law at international law firms for over 11 years, I understand and enjoy the art of negotiation, the importance of communication and the value of customer service. These skills are ingrained in me and give my clients a distinct advantage in our transactions.”
What’s most rewarding about your work?
“Being able to use my knowledge and experience to take the stress out of the home selling or buying process. I am very protective of my clients’ interests, so it gives me immense satisfaction when my clients are happy with both the process and outcome of their transaction.”
Tell us about your family.
My husband and I met in law school and just celebrated our 21st wedding anniversary. We have two great sons who work hard in school and play hard in sports, plus we have two of the sweetest rescue animals you’ll ever meet! My husband and I love being actively involved at our kids’ schools and in their sports activities.” BRE 01411097
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S P E C I A L A DV E RT I S I N G S E CT I O N
Women in Business
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ebecca Foster is an interior designer who has been designing and remodeling homes for 15 years. Prior to having children and shifting her career focus to design, she worked in banking after graduating with a business degree from Georgetown University. She and her husband have four children. They lived in San Francisco for years and enjoyed visiting her parents in the South Bay before deciding to move to Manhattan Beach in 2010.
How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?
“I am the main point of contact, and I have designed and built my own homes so I understand the process from both the design side as well as the homeowner side. I really understand the ins and outs of BUILDING, not just decorating, so I can add value to someone working with a contractor. In today’s busy world, many people are working and trying to manage a project, and I can help be a ‘third’ homeowner by representing them when they can’t be present to make decisions, when they are busy at work or with family obligations. Once people get to know me, they know that they can trust me to think like they would and that I will always have their best interests in mind.”
How do you empathize with your customer in order to build trust?
“I know that investing in your home—be it remodeling, redecorating or starting from scratch—is costly and at times very frustrating. Lead times are long, things can arrive broken or wrong, but I never cover up issues. I try to let clients know from the beginning that I am on their side, and we will work together to get the best products and the best price for their home.”
FAST FACT
When she’s not at work, Rebecca enjoys running on the beach and entertaining in her home.
REBECCA FOSTER Owner Rebecca Foster Design Manhattan Beach 415-336-6405 rebeccafoster.com
S P E C I A L A DV E RT I S I N G S E CT I O N
What’s most rewarding about your work? “I LOVE helping people make their house a true HOME. I love helping people navigate a world that is often very foreign and overwhelming. Making something that can seem daunting at first become manageable and fun is why I love doing what I do. I love seeing the joy that people receive when all their decisions come together to give them a room or a home they have been dreaming of.”
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Women in Business
KATHLEEN ADAMS, CPWA®, CFP®
Senior Associate Signature Estate & Investment Advisors 1815 Via El Prado, Suite 100 Redondo Beach 310-712-2322 seia.com/kathleen-adams
K
athleen Adams is a Senior Associate at Signature Estate & Investment Advisors, where she has worked since 2012. Her team develops financial strategies through a planning process that helps clients optimize the utilization of their wealth. SEIA and its affiliates manage $5 billion in client assets as of May 15, 2015 and were named one of the Forbes 2015 Top 100 Wealth Managers in the U.S. A 16-year veteran of the field of finance, Kathleen holds the Certified Private Wealth Advisor® certification and the Certified Financial Planner® designation.
Tell us something unique about your business.
“We have packaged our objective advice and creative solutions into a trademarked process called The Owner’s Plan®. We offer this for fixed fees completely separate from our wealth management services, so there is no requirement to invest money with us in order to get a plan.”
Who is your target client?
“People who are self-made success stories and are trying to understand how to continue financ-
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ing their lifestyle when their earned income stops. Even people with significant wealth often have no idea how much of that wealth will be needed for their own future. We help answer this question so decisions such as, giving money to family members or contributing to charities, can be made with peace of mind.”
FAST FACT
We have packaged our objective advice and creative solutions into a trademarked process called The Owner’s Plan®.
What question do you frequently hear from clients?
“Questions surrounding how to utilize their assets and income sources in a tax-efficient manner to create an income stream that they won’t outlive. Their net worth may be composed of low-basis stocks, illiquid assets such as real estate or closely held business stock, or oftentimes the bulk of their wealth is in their business, which has no viable exit or succession plan.”
How do you build trust in you and your business?
“We build trust by delivering results. I feel financial plans have become commoditized and delivered as an ‘added value’ byproduct much of the time. Our plans are not free reports and require ongoing interactions, accountability and communication.”
Tell us about your family.
“My husband, Mike, and I raised two wonderful daughters and have each built successful businesses in Manhattan Beach. We are very grateful to our community!” Disclaimer: Registered Representative/Securities offered through Signator Investors, Inc. Member FINRA, SIPC, 2121 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 1600, Los Angeles, CA 90067 (310) 712-2323. SEIA, LLC and its investment advisory services are offered independent of Signator Investors, Inc. and any subsidiaries or affiliates. KAA CA INS LICENSE #0C76833. Opinions expressed here are the authors and do not necessarily represent the opinions of SEIA.
S P E C I A L A DV E RT I S I N G S E CT I O N
Women in Business
A
nne St. Cyr is a full-service Realtor who has assisted nearly 50 families with finding homes in Palos Verdes and the Beach Cities since joining Sotheby’s in June 2013. She moved to the South Bay from Ohio for her husband’s job in 2012. Having experienced the relocation process, she is sympathetic to clients who are moving to the area and trying to find the perfect home while learning about southern California. She often shows her clients around the South Bay to help ease the anxiety of moving.
How would your clients describe you?
“I am hardworking and go above and beyond to make certain my clients feel comfortable throughout the buying/selling process. My clients would say that I am trustworthy and loyal to them. I want to treat all of my clients like I would like to be treated, so I am sensitive to their needs. As a result, I have become friends with many of my clients.”
How do you empathize with your customer in order to build his/her trust in you and your business?
“I recently went through the relocation process and can relate to the stresses of a cross-country move. I continue to assist my clients after the completed transaction until they feel settled into their new life.”
FAST FACT
Anne has a degree in radiologic technology and, prior to moving to California, worked in the medical field for a large hospital group in Ohio.
What’s most rewarding about your work?
“It’s rewarding for me to help clients find the perfect home that fits their lifestyle. I like building friendships with my clients. You spend so much time with them while looking for a home—you become friends.”
How do you give back to your community?
ANNE ST. CYR Realtor Vista Sotheby’s International Realty
608 Silver Spur Rd. #103 Rolling Hills Estates 310-755-9592 luxurypropertiesbyanne.com
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“I am a member of two women’s organizations in the South Bay. Las Candalistas is a women’s philanthropy group that sponsors several events throughout the year to raise money for local charities. I am co-president of the New Neighbor’s Club of Palos Verdes Peninsula, a social group that helps ladies who are new to the area meet new people and learn more about the South Bay. We also raise money for local charities throughout the year. I am a member of my homeowners association because I feel it’s important to keep our neighborhoods safe and attractive. It’s an effective way to meet our neighbors and welcome them.”
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Women in Business
MARGOT FARRIS, LINDA MCLOUGHLIN FIGEL, PATTY GIBSON, SUNNI WON Co-owners {pages} a bookstore
904 Manhattan Ave. | Manhattan Beach 310-318-0900 | pagesabookstore.com
{
pages} a bookstore is a place for book lovers of all ages offering a carefully curated selection of adult and children’s fiction and non-fiction, coffee table, cook and surf books. {pages} offers book clubs, author signings and children’s story times as well as a knowledgeable staff and complimentary gift wrap. Linda McLoughlin Figel, Patty Gibson and Margot Farris opened {pages} in 2010, and Sunni Won joined as a co-owner in early 2015.
What would you like potential clients to know about you?
How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?
What question or concern do you frequently hear from clients?
“As operators of a local, independent, brickand-mortar bookstore, we support and live in the community where we work. Our customers are our friends and neighbors. We may not be able compete on price with online retailers, but we provide many things they cannot. We employ local students and host author events, school poetry readings, book clubs and story times.”
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“{pages} is here for you! If we don’t have the book you’re looking for, we can usually get it for you in a day or two. Regardless of our store hours, we have an online presence 24:7. We know we wouldn’t be here without the enthusiastic and loyal patronage of our friends and community. THANK YOU for keeping us here and a bookstore in Manhattan Beach.”
“We are thanked by our clients for being here. Nobody wants to imagine a world or a town without a bookstore.”
What do you like to do for fun, when you’re not at work?
“Read!! Read!! Read!! While bookselling was new to all four owners, we’ve shared a lifetime of passion for books and reading.”
Tell us something unique about your business.
“We’re an independent bookstore in 2015. Bookstores are a rare thing today.”
Tell us about your families.
“Collectively we have nine children, five dogs, have lived in Manhattan Beach for over 75 years and have read thousands of books.”
What’s most rewarding about your work?
“We love sharing books! There is nothing better than matching the right book with the right reader and hearing about their experience. Equally rewarding is hearing about new authors and titles from our customers.”
FAST FACT
{pages} supports local schools through the Manhattan Beach Education Foundation, their Scrip Program and growing Book Fair business.
S P E C I A L A DV E RT I S I N G S E CT I O N
Women in Business
O
riginally from Fargo, North Dakota, Kerry Dawson has been a Realtor in the South Bay for 23 years. She enjoys travel, kayaking, hiking, snow skiing, cycling and Pilates.
What do you do you love about the South Bay?
“I love Southern California and don’t miss the Midwest’s subzero winters. It’s the best place to be a Realtor®. Everyone wants to own in this area. It’s exciting working with clients in what may be the single most significant purchase in their lifetime.”
What’s your favorite office tool to stay on top of things? “I love having my iPad, iPhone and Mac laptop to quickly get back to clients from anywhere I may be. And of course I use social media to advertise my clients’ listings.”
What’s most rewarding about your work?
“Helping young couples from the beginning of their family life, the addition of children, to the empty-nester stage that may involve several homes and investment properties. I enjoy working with couples moving to the area, as I can educate them about our schools, share my knowledge of the South Bay and find them the perfect home with my networking expertise.”
FAST FACT
Kerry moved to the South Bay 26 years ago. She’s originally from Fargo, North Dakota ... the very same Fargo brought to light by the Coen brothers.
How do you give back to your community?
“I have been a room mom for my two daughters’ classrooms from Montessori through elementary school. I was a volunteer Brownie/Girl Scouts mom and a volunteer team mom who brought the drinks, snacks and made the banner for my daughter’s Little League T-ball team. I give to various charities in the community, but my main charity is Richstone.”
How do your clients describe you?
KERRY L. DAWSON Realtor® NW Real Estate Brokers Manhattan Beach 310-753-5537 KerryLDawson@aol.com
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“Many of my clients call me the ‘concierge’ Realtor. I feel it is important to always go above and beyond and provide personalized, exceptional service. Referrals are a big part of my success. When a client recommends me to a friend or relative, they are assured the same level of care, service and professionalism.”
What do you do for fun when you are not at work? “These days, my family is the priority, and of course work takes up a lot of my time. But all work and no play is never a good thing. Some of my favorite outside activities include boating, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and working out at the gym.”
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Women in Business 1st row: Farnaz Flechner (MBEF), Jennifer Williams (MBX), Marla Zaslansky (MBEF), Anne Kelly (MB Home Town Fair), Michael Stadvec (Fit On), Franca Stadvec, Angela Bennett, Heath & Mandy Gregory (Tour de Pier), Nancy Doyle (Robinson Elementary), Jan Dunbar (Grades of Green), Kathy Fisher (GROW)
2nd row: Kathy Snyder (Aqua Salon), Sarah Robinson (RUHS), Holly Dawson (RUHS), Shannon Nicholson (Pacific PTA), Louisa Cushman (Hermosa Valley PTA), Nina Patel (Friendship Circle), David Lesser (MB Councilman), Stephanie Schaub (7th Floor Marketing), Tiffany Freedman (Haute Yoga)
3rd row: Melanie Barsuk (Simple Gourmet), Meghan Taylor (Beach Cities Swim), Melinda Arentsen (Sandpipers), Margot Farris (Pages), Becca Dalton & Marianne Fraher (Klutter Busters), Ali Noller (Blue Zones Beach Cities), Ann Marie Whitney (MBMS PTA), Kim Bailey (HBEF), Jennifer Cochran (MB School Board), Shaya Kirkpatrick (Grades of Green)
ANGELA BENNETT AND FRANCA STADVEC Co-owners Fit On Studios
2407 Sepulveda Blvd | Manhattan Beach | 310-546-4191 531 N. Pacific Coast Highway | Redondo Beach | 310-374-5710 Fitonstudios.com
F
it On Studios is a fitness studio that offers indoor cycling, barre and TRX circuit training classes. Owners Angela Bennett and Franca Stadvec, who met while attending San Diego State University, opened the studio in 2010. Fit On Studios has a staff of 46 knowledgeable instructors.
FAST FACT
In May 2014, Angela and Franca opened a second Fit On location in Redondo Beach. They teach classes at both studios on a regular basis.
What would you like potential clients to know about you?
“Fit On just celebrated our fifth anniversary! Our primary intention when we opened Fit On was to develop a business with its ‘soul’ rooted in community participation and collaboration. We attribute much of our success, and
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customer loyalty, to that mission. We think there is no better way to showcase our mantra, ‘The Power of Shared Energy,’ than to honor the people with whom we have had the privilege to work with in the Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach and Redondo Beach communities. The people who stand with us in the photo above are some of the movers and shakers of the South Bay—helping our communities grow, evolve and remain a wonderful place in which to live. City council members, school leaders, teachers, PTA members, MBEF, MBX, HBEF, RBEF, local business owners/leaders and nonprofit organizers … each of whom contributes to the sense of community, partnership and shared energy that we are so proud to represent at Fit On.”
Tell us something unique about your business.
“We are very proud of the achievements of our clients, both inside and outside the studios. Every interaction at Fit On has a
foundation of sharing. Sharing history, sharing goals, sharing insight, sharing wins and sharing spirit. The Power of Shared Energy speaks to both the dynamic of our smaller classes and to the life philosophy that so many of our clients demonstrate every day. Whether it is supporting a fellow client in their quest for health, direct involvement in giving back to the community, a passion for education, selfless philanthropic dedication to a cause, or leading a business with integrity, our clients join us in celebrating the spirit of community.”
How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?
“Our smaller-than-typical class size allows for a group dynamic that just can’t be duplicated in a larger format. Whether it’s our schedule of classes, our pricing or our combo classes (30/30 Cycling/Barre or 30/30 Cycling/TRX), we strive to offer our clients a differentiated experience.”
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Women in Business
AMY WILKENS
Owner The Urban Clothes Horse 1901 S. Catalina Ave. Redondo Beach 424-247-8948 UrbanClothesHorse.com
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he Urban Clothes Horse lifestyle brand and retail company features modern and rustic, restrained and unrestrained, ever-evolving fashion collections, including beautifully crafted, luxurious clothing, handcrafted footwear, exquisite jewelry, and couture leather goods for women and men. Prior to becoming a Riviera Village Redondo Beach business owner, Amy Wilkens worked in the fashion and entertainment industry for more than a decade. She and her husband, Matt, opened the business in May.
How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?
“The Urban Clothes Horse defines the ultimate shopping experience. We pride ourselves on featuring designers that transcend generations and trends. We carry the most diverse collection of brands under one roof in the South Bay as: Free People, Karen
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Kane, Johnny Was, Eileen Fisher, Kippys Leather, Paige, Hudson, Bed Stu, SKY, and many more. We love to feature unique European collections from Italy, Paris, Denmark, and from designers that give back to the community, use eco-friendly, organic fabrics, and are socially and globally conscious.
What are some ways you provide topnotch customer service?
“Our customer service is incomparable. What unmistakably sets us apart is that we actually employ professional wardrobe stylists to dress and assist all clientele. We even have a seamstress on staff who has a degree in costume design! We love what we do and it shows!
What would you like potential clients to know about you?
“This is my third retail store, and as a celebrity stylist, I have have dressed everyone
from Betty White to Britney Spears. When you have been behind the camera with fashion and wardrobe …and in front of the camera on stage, performing for so many years … you quickly learn what works and what doesn’t on the body. I believe my diverse background has allowed me to have extremely strong pulse on what’s hot and what‘s not!
FAST FACT
Amy avidly rescues and rehabilitates draft horses and dogs. She is also a recording artist known as FIOR, and sung with such legends as Stevie Wonder, Roger Daltrey (the Who), Journey. Her music is featured on TV shows like “Pretty Little Liars”, and commercials.
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Women in Business
L to R: Jan Rhees, Natalie Komatz, Brad Simpson, Chatty Arrieta (CFO), Nick Segal (Founder/President)
JAN RHEES
Associate Partner Manager Partners Trust Real Estate Brokerage & Acquisitions 1219 Morningside Drive, Suite 202 Manhattan Beach 310-500-3647 (office) | 310-689-8779 (direct) thepartnerstrust.com
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lmost 15 years ago, Jan Rhees worked with Nick Segal at a brokerage called DBL. When Jan moved to Manhattan Beach she joined Shorewood Realtors, where she remained for 13 years. During those years Nick and Jan referred business to one another, and in March Jan opened the Southbay Partners Trust office in Manhattan Beach as Founding Associate Partner/Manager. Prior to launching into real estate Jan enjoyed a successful career in entertainment, where she began acquiring property.
What would you like potential clients to know about you?
How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?
Tell us about your working style.
“My clients and I seem to be drawn to one another. I rarely market myself in my neighborhood, preferring to serve my community and allow my clientele to grow through referrals and past client recommendations.”
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“With a 30-year career in entertainment working to launch the careers of artists like Reba McEntire and many notable entertainers, I am trained in discretion when representing my clients. As a past NARAS executive (Grammy Awards/MusiCares) and award winner for my BMI/ASCAP catalog of songs, my approach to real estate is creative and I have a keen business understanding of the importance of establishing trust with those placing their future into my hands.” “Earning and maintaining trust is everything to me. Joining a brokerage that reflects this genuine commitment to our loyal clients has completely lifted my spirits and been a game changer for me. I cannot wait to get to my office every
single day.”
How do you give back to your community?
“As a past president of the Rotary Club of Manhattan Beach (2009/2010), Mayors Youth Council entertainment seminar leader (third year), MBEF Supporter, Pacific School Movie Night Supporter, former two-term Library Commissioner appointed by MB City Council and Leadership Manhattan Beach graduate (2007) my life is anchored in service here.”
FAST FACT
From the first year it opened for business, Partners Trust has been voted one of LA Business Journal’s “Best Companies to Work For” based on employee satisfaction and innovation.
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Women in Business GAYLE THEODORA DRAKE Owner/CEO Out of the Closets™
Palos Verdes 310-612-8095 GayleTheodoraDrake.com
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ut of the Closets is a wardrobe and imageconsulting firm in the Palos Verdes/South Bay area, specializing in creating and maintaining beautifully curated closets, packing for travel, special event styling, personal shopping, professional organizing, makeup and skin care, and virtual makeovers. Owner Gayle Theodora Drake started the business in 2010 after working for more than three decades in the fashion industry as a successful print and runway model.
Tell us a bit about your working style.
“I encourage my clients to focus on self-care. Most women today are so busy running their lives, their businesses and their families, they rarely give themselves the luxury of self-care. After assessing my clients’ wardrobe needs, I immediately get to work by organizing, shopping and creating a series of curated outfits for them, to be at the ready. To be anxiety-free is key!”
What are some ways you provide top-notch customer service?
“When I started my business I based it on this philosophy, ‘If I had this type of service, what would I want and expect from my investment?’ When hiring people who work for me, I want someone who really listens, who is an expert in their field and who would anticipate my needs. Out of the Closets’ personalized concierge packages takes it a step further. We truly provide the Gold Standard of service.”
What’s most rewarding about your work?
“Every day is a new opportunity for me to make a difference in the lives of women! After five years, Out of the Closets has experienced wonderful growth. I have enjoyed the support of the local South Bay community, and I hope to continue to meet and help more women each day.”
How does a prospective client know they are ready for a wardrobe and image consultant?
CLOTHING BY MARK ZUNINO ATELIER
“Prospective clients should ask themselves a few questions such as: Do you find yourself wearing the same clothes over and over again? Do you secretly wish you had your own personal stylist? Do you feel like you aren’t perceived as the strong, intelligent woman you are? Have you arrived to an appointment late, looking or feeling disheveled and frazzled? If you answered ‘YES’ to any of these questions, I’m confident Out of the Closets would be your most chic consideration when looking to invest in yourself.”
FAST FACT
Gayle has worked with many top designers and models over the years, including Elle Macpherson on her NBC Swimwear Special and Paulina Porizkova during the filming of the movie Her Alibi.
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LAURA EINSETLER Owner Captain Laura
68 Via Capri Palos Verdes 425 314-3549 CaptainLaura.com to help create a more comfortable and predictable flying experience for yourselves. Follow us on our social media sights to share the Flying Facts and Aviation Tidbits along with very cool photos and videos. Read Remove Before Flight, Lost and Found and several of my future books and movies that are currently in work. Come fly with me through the wild, blue yonder.”
What concern do you frequently hear from clients?
Why does your industry appeal to you?
“People are concerned about flying since the media can tend to conjure added fear and the experience of flying can be overwhelming. I am helping pull back the curtain of mystery and explain what is happening in the flying environment.”
How do you advise your clients to achieve and maintain success? “Go to CaptainLaura.com and read the articles
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“Flying is magic! The rush of the speed, the surge of adrenaline and the beauty all around me is addictive. I also love knowing that I am taking people safely to where they want to go.”
What are some ways you provide topnotch customer service?
“You have to really care about your work and the people you are providing a specific service to in order to truly hit the mark. It’s like landing a jet at 220mph. You have to know where you are
aiming and what you are focused on in order to provide a trusted and needed service. “
What are some of the challenges you have encountered being a female in your industry?
“I am by far a rarity in my field. My hope is that in the future, more women will decide this may be a solid career opportunity for them. I often think about the females who came before me who helped pave the way, along with the male mentors who have been there to help teach and encourage me. With great risk can come great reward and benefit in the field you choose.”
FAST FACT
Laura works as an aviation expert with CNN and is an airline pilot for a major U.S. commercial airline.
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PHOTOGRAPHED AT THE PROUD BIRD
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aura Einsetler has worked in the aviation field for more than 30 years. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) in Aeronautical Science. Two years ago she created her business, Captain Laura, to empower and educate air travelers.
Women in Business
ALLISON VAN’T HOF President/Owner Out of the Box Promotional Marketing, LLC 1600 Rosecrans Avenue Manhattan Beach 310-322-0900 outoftheboxpromo.com
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ut of the Box Promotional Marketing provides creative, “outof-the-box” solutions for television and movie studios, global sports organizations, motorsports teams and companies within the corporate sector, through licensed and non-licensed consumer products, merchandise and promotional products. Owner Allison Van’t Hof has worked in the advertising and marketing industry for the past two decades. She opened her firm 10 years ago.
How would your clients describe you?
“My clients would describe me as possessing a positive attitude, detail-oriented, exceptional customer service skills, energetic, budgetminded, knowledgeable, a consumer/end user best friend, and ‘out-of-the-box’ thinker.”
How do you advise your clients to achieve and maintain success?
“First, last, and always I show them how to ‘listen’ to their consumers and the latest market trends!”
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How do you give back to your community? “Giving back to the community in which we are privileged to live is exercised through various fundraisers and my children’s school projects and charitable initiatives.”
FAST FACT
Originally from North Carolina, Allison moved to Southern California in 1976 to attend college and now resides in Manhattan Beach.
Why does your industry appeal to you? “Because my creative side is unleashed. Never say NO! There is a creative solution for everything.”
What would you like potential clients to know about you?
“My ability to fit Big Company advertising, marketing and promo expertise to smaller companies and their budgets. Additionally, that I possess the resources domestically and
overseas to make virtually any sized promotion a winning success.”
How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?
“Deep experience. Having been in this business for over 20 years, I have learned what works. Most importantly, what doesn’t. I read everything from sports, entertainment, fashion, automotive, electronics—everything to know what is going on with brands as it relates to consumer products, the hottest trends and brand positioning.”
What do you like to do for fun, when you’re not at work?
“When I am not at work, I love being with my two children, Trever (16), and Ava (14)— hanging out or going on fun excursions and trips with friends. When I am not with my children, I love the mountains, and snow skiing is my true passion. Also, I enjoy playing tennis, water skiing, running at the beach, yoga or really anything sports-related and being outdoors.”
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Women in Business
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red Astaire Dance Studio offers ballroom dance classes for all ages. Owner Izabela Lewandowski has worked in the dance industry for the past 30 years. She has worked with the Fred Astaire Company for five years and started her own studio in January. Izabela is from Poland and began her dance education at the age of 6. She moved to the U.S. in 2000.
IZABELA LEWANDOWSKI Owner Fred Astaire Dance Studio 1650 S. Pacific Coast Hwy. Redondo Beach 310-316-5800 fredastaireredondo.com
How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?
“Fred Astaire Dance Studios provide the best program of ballroom dance education in the U.S. We evaluate every student that comes to our studio so we can customize the program to each client in order to accommodate to their personal goals and needs. Each instructor is highly certified in order to provide the best quality of teaching. Our mission is to help our clients make positive changes in their life in all areas: physical, emotional well-being, balance, self-confidence, weight loss, social skills and many more.”
What question do you frequently hear from clients?
“Do I have to be a professional to join the studio? The answer is: NOT AT ALL. We teach everyone—all levels, all ages, and no, you don’t need a partner.”
FAST FACT
When she’s not dancing, Izabela loves to spend time with her husband and her toy poodle, George.
Tell us something unique about your business.
“It does not recognize race, age, status, ability or disability. It’s absolutely for everybody, and it’s a form of activity that not only unites people but helps each and every individual enrich their lives, find their passion or overcome life challenges—all through movement and music.”
What are some of the challenges you have encountered being a female in your industry?
“By the time I began my career as a professional, there were quite few amazing, powerful females who proved that being a dancer/coach/choreographer/ judge and businesswoman in our industry really depends on your education, commitment, creativity and passion—and not gender. These women open the doors wide for my generation of professionals.”
How do you give back to your community?
“We are a fairly new business in the community but with large vision of giving back. We are getting to know our community and its needs day by day. There are a few charity and fundraising projects that we are working on at the moment in partnership with other businesses in the area. Giving back is a big part of our mission.”
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Women in Business LINDA S. BUCHANAN Senior Mortgage Advisor Caliber Home Loans 818 Manhattan Beach Blvd. Suite 100 Manhattan Beach 310-796-7591 buchanan-team.com
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inda Buchanan worked in sales and marketing in the hotel industry before transitioning to the field of mortgage lending in 1993. She was with Platinum Capital, now RPM Mortgage, for 18 years before joining Caliber Home Loans Inc., (previously Cobalt Mortgage) in early 2014.
How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?
“Ethics and integrity are what drive me and my team. We are known for exceptional service and follow-through with all parties involved in the loan process. My goal is to assist every individual looking to purchase or refinance their home with the most up-todate lending information. Structuring loans and solving even the most challenging loan scenarios is my specialty.”
What would you like potential clients to know about you?
“The mortgage industry as a whole has gone through a huge transformation in the past seven years. It is critical that our clients work with a trusted mortgage originator with a proven successful track record who is up-to-date on all regulations and changes in our industry in addition to offering competitive pricing and a variety of loan programs. Caliber Home Loans Inc., is one of the leading mortgage lenders in the country lending in 49 states.”
FAST FACT
When she’s not at work, Linda and her husband, Bob, enjoy tennis, road and mountain biking and skiing together.
How do you advise your clients to achieve and maintain success?
“If they are looking to purchase, they must in this market be pre-approved. This means that they need to move very quickly in providing all the necessary documentation to their lender, so they will be in a strong position to make their offer. The market has become very challenging with a shortage of inventory and is extremely competitive. We encourage all of our clients to start the pre-approval process as soon as they know they are ready to start shopping for a new home.”
What’s most rewarding about your work?
“The most rewarding thing about what I do is helping people achieve their dream of owning a home. I know this sounds cliché, but it is true. The thank-you letters and notes we have received over the years are priceless. I love solving complicated loan issues as well and have built a reputation on overcoming the most difficult obstacles in the loan process.” NMLS #303528 PHOTOGRAPHED BY ANITA LOBSENZ
Disclaimer: Caliber Home Loans, Inc., 3701 Regent Boulevard, Irving, TX 75063 (NMLS #15622). 1-800-401-6587. ©2015. All Rights Reserved. Equal Housing Lender. This is not an offer to enter into an agreement. Not all customers will qualify. Information, rates, and programs are subject to change without prior notice. All products are subject to credit and property approval. Not all products are available in all states or for all dollar amounts. Other restrictions and limitations apply.
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ealtor® Julie Christensen is a residential real estate specialist working with Vista Sotheby’s International Realty. She earned her bachelor’s degree in business at Northern Arizona University.
What do you love about real estate?
“The dynamic marketplace, interesting product and even more interesting people! The challenge of bringing great people and great opportunities together is an absolute thrill for me ... every day!”
JULIE R. CHRISTENSEN Realtor® Vista Sotheby’s International Realty
Julie.Christensen@vistasir.com 310-874-2886
What do you like to do for fun when you’re not at work? “When I am not working on a real estate transaction, you will find me skiing, SCUBA diving, waterskiing, reading a book on the beach, or on a walk with my goldendoodle, Mike!”
What would you like potential clients to know about you? “I think the most important part of working with clients in real estate is listening. You have to understand exactly what your clients want, need, motivators, etc., and be able to act on those accordingly. I also think it is important to really get to know your clients so you understand how they live their life … inside the house and outside of it. Having a strong team in place is also critical—escrow, title, lender, stager and social media expert are all crucial to a successful transaction, and I have the BEST!”
FAST FACT
Julie worked in the securities industry for more than 15 years— most recently at Oppenheimer & Co., Inc. for the last 12 years—before entering the real estate market in 2006.
Share some recent client testimonials with us.
“Casey and Sabrena of Redondo Beach said, ‘We have already recommended Julie to all our family and friends and anyone else who will listen. Shopping for our first home with Julie by our side made the process easy, fun and painless. We know we weren’t her only clients, but she definitely made it feel like we were.’ And Michael and Debra of Hermosa Beach said, ‘When the time came to sell our home of 12 years we were very fortunate to find Julie to represent us. Throughout the process … Julie was professional, successful and a real pleasure to work with. Selling our home was the biggest financial transaction of our lives. Julie made it both profitable and fun!’”
What do your clients love about living in the South Bay?
“Mainly how gorgeous it is, the beaches and ocean, how great the schools are and the unbelievable feel of community here.” BRE 01804587
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Women in Business DR. BITA DAVOODIAN Owner Bita Davoodian, DDS, Inc. 1959 Kingsdale Ave., Suite 202 Redondo Beach 310-793-1000 drdavoodian.com
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r. Bita Davoodian graduated from UCLA and attended dental school at the University of the Pacific in San Francisco. She has been a clinical instructor at UCLA Dental School for the past four years, where she teaches future dentists. She has worked in dentistry for about 16 years.
What would you like potential clients to know about you?
“I am dedicated to creating beautiful, long-lasting smiles and maintaining the oral health of my patients. I strive to deliver the highest quality general, restorative and cosmetic dental care in a warm atmosphere with the utmost kindness and respect. I see a wide range of patients including seniors, adults and children. I truly believe that preventive care and education are the two most important aspects of optimal dental health.”
FAST FACT
Dr. Davoodian volunteers throughout the year for events offering dental care for underprivileged communities.
What are some ways you provide top-notch customer service?
“Patients constantly express how comfortable they feel from the moment they walk into the office to the time they leave. I do this by treating all my patients like family. Collectively as a team we make sure to spend as much time with our patients as they need to understand the treatment and feel comfortable and relaxed. I perform every treatment with a steady and gentle touch, combined with the most modern technology and practices to ensure our patients have the best care possible.”
Tell us something unique about your business.
“In addition to cosmetic dentistry and full mouth rehabilitation, I also address the overall health of patients, including airway and TMJ evaluation. I am a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine and recognized for working hand-in-hand with physicians to treat patients with oral appliances for sleep apnea.”
How do you empathize with your customer in order to build trust?
“Quality care really begins with trust. I aim to understand and identify with my patients in order to provide a positive experience. As my patient, you can expect clear treatment options, honesty, efficiency and quality.”
Why is dentistry a good career path for women?
“The structure of the dental profession provides unique opportunities to exercise a high degree of autonomy and flexibility. This ultimately allows females to be able to be mothers and wives as well as an excellent dentist and business owner.”
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Women in Business
AMANDA HROMADKA Owner Gee Gee Equine
25660 Crenshaw Blvd., Suite 104/105 Torrance 424-263-5914 geegeeequine.com
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ee Gee Equine is an equestrian store located in the heart of the Palos Verdes riding community. Owner Amanda Hromadka and her team sell functional, stylish riding apparel and high-quality European saddles and bridles from Germany and Italy. Gee Gee Equine opened in 2011 as a mobile business and opened as a store in 2014. They doubled in size just a month ago. Amanda has been in sales for the last 20 years and last year resigned from a very corporate job to pursue her dream of combining a passion for riding with running her own company.
Tell us a bit about your working style.
“We try to provide the best customer service. If they have a budget, we stick with it. I would not want to push my customers into purchasing an item that is out of their price range. We have something for everyone’s budget, whether it’s a $50 pair of breeches or a
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$1,000 pair of custom boots. We want every customer to walk away with a very positive shopping experience.”
can be specifically designed to include a favorite color, flag, initial and type of leather, as well as a perfect fit.”
What’s most rewarding about your work?
Tell us about your family.
“Walking around town and seeing clients wearing apparel from Gee Gee, especially our exclusive brands. I love working with all levels of riders and budgets for people who have a passion to ride horses.”
What’s changed since your last business profile in Southbay magazine? “Before we were exclusively an equestrian boutique clothing store, and now we have doubled the size of our store to bring in Italian tack by Equipe Selleria—used exclusively by the #1 ranked dressage rider in the world, Charlotte Dujardin, and Olympic gold medalist jumper McLain Ward. We also offer custom boots from Italy where we can custom-fit a client in 30 minutes. Each boot
“I live in Hermosa Beach and moved to the South Bay 15 years ago when I married my husband. I grew up in England with a family that was incredibly passionate about horses. My father loved everything about horses, whether riding, breeding or betting on them. As a child my whole focus in life was horses. Opening my shop in Palos Verdes has allowed me to talk horses and fashion with a fabulous community of riders.”
FAST FACT
Amanda grew up in England with a horseriding family. Her siblings rode, and her father rode steeplechase, bred horses and was “Master of the Hunt.”
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Women in Business
Board members, standing: Linda Buffington, Meredith Zellweger, Ann Kates, Karen Sidney, Janice Walters. Seated: Candy Messer, Deborah Shepard, Brooke Sklar, Holly Richards, Adele Snyder.
SOUTH BAY BUSINESS WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION 703 Pier Avenue, B359 Hermosa Beach 310-569-6748 sbbwa.com
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outh Bay Business Women’s Association (SBBWA) is a nonprofit organization of civic-minded businesswomen with a history of more than 25 years in the South Bay. The group’s mission is to award educational scholarships for young women attending college. Members meet twice a month—once for dinner, where they network and listen to a speaker on a topic of interest for women in business, and once for a mixer.
How do you fund the scholarships?
“Each May, SBBWA puts on The South Bay Women’s Conference attended by 300+ women. We have well-known speakers, breakout sessions and panel discussions focusing on topics that empower and inspire women. We partner with sponsors who support the conference. This year Adia, a woman-owned business in the South Bay that provides in-home senior care, was our
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title sponsor, and they will be involved again next year. They are a huge supporter of and advocate for young women. All proceeds from the conference go toward the scholarships, and we present the scholarships at the conference. It’s a wonderful day!”
Who are the scholarship recipients?
“The recipients either live in or attend school in the South Bay. Our intention is to help deserving young women who have a need in our own community.”
Who are your members?
“Our 60+ members come from all kinds of businesses around the South Bay of Los Angeles. We are women who own small businesses and women who work for big corporations. We are women from all kinds of backgrounds, ethnicities and age ranges. We are a diverse group whose commonalities are the desire to pay it forward by empower-
ing women with opportunity for growth and an interest or involvement in business.”
FAST FACT
South Bay Business Women’s Association and its predecessor, American Business Women’s Association, have provided more than $100,000 in scholarship funds to young women from the South Bay of Los Angeles.
If someone has an interest in your organization, how does she learn more?
“To find out more about us, visit our website at sbbwa.com. Anyone interested can join us for our monthly dinner the first Wednesday of the month at The Depot Restaurant in Torrance, where we’d love to share more about what we do.”
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ealtor Jamie Pagliano works with Keller Williams Realty South Bay, which has offices in Torrance and Redondo Beach. The team has been awarded gold medals as Top Producers for each of the last six years. Jamie grew up in Palos Verdes, attended local schools and played tennis at USC. She worked as a successful TV producer before joining the real estate industry.
How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?
JAMIE PAGLIANO Real Estate Agent Keller Williams Realty South Bay
23670 Hawthorne Blvd., Suite 100 Torrance 310-717-9554 JamiePaglianoRealEstate.com JamiePag@kw.com
“I believe in transparency when it comes to real estate transactions. We need to inform both sides as to what is happening throughout the transaction and do what is best for our clients in terms of negotiations. I pride myself in being an ethical agent who works closely with the agent on the other side of the transaction.”
What would you like potential clients to know about you?
“I like to work quickly but thoroughly in securing the best deal for my client. Once we get an offer accepted or we accept an offer, it is important to me that we move at a swift pace so the buyers or sellers see the motivation of my clients. If you get all the disclosures signed up front and you work with a great team of lenders, escrow and title companies, your transaction can be smooth and seamless.”
Tell us something unique about your business. “This business is about relationships and being honest and open with people. Buyers and sellers want to work with trustworthy people who make themselves available to their clients when it comes to real estate transactions. Each transaction is unique, and strategies need to be developed to address the needs of each client situation.”
FAST FACT
Jamie grew up in Palos Verdes and has lived in the South Bay for 32 years.
Why does your industry appeal to you?
“I am a people person. I get along well with all walks of life and am very approachable and easy to talk to. In real estate it is all about relationships and communication. If you do not have a good relationship or cannot communicate with your client and other agents you will not be a successful Realtor.”
What do you like to do for fun, when you’re not at work?
“When I am not working, one of my passions is traveling the world. There is a magical element about being in a foreign place and having a new life experience that is indescribable.”
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Women in Business
LILLIAN HABERMAN Owner Ya Ya’s Boutique
720 Allied Way, Suite B El Segundo 310-615-1928
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a Ya’s Boutique is a jewelry and accessory store that showcases a network of talented women entrepreneurs in the jewelry industry. Owner Lillian Haberman offers a collection of accessories that caters to the women of the South Bay.
FAST FACT
The mission statement of Ya Ya’s Boutique is: “Keep everything affordable without compromising quality. Beautiful jewelry and fashion is within everyone’s reach.”
What would you like potential clients to know about your store?
“As Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood says (from which our name originates): ‘Use everything in your life to create.’ We embrace this philosophy wholeheartedly. We are so grateful to our investor and biggest supporter, Dan, who
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always says, ‘You cannot save the world, but give power to women and you see change in the right direction.’”
Tell us something unique about your business.
“We represent nearly 30 local designers who are creating, evolving and have new inspiration every day. Anyone looking for the one-of-a-kind and unique will definitely will find it at Ya Ya’s.”
Who is your target client?
“Women who love fashionable jewelry and accessories—and what woman doesn’t? We make sure that we cover everyone’s price point and style. Living in this area, we understand the flair and lifestyle of our clientele and do our very best to meet their expectations.”
What are some ways you provide top-notch customer service?
“Everyone who walks through our door is assigned her very own stylist. We make it our
business to know each client’s sense of style, from home to office, and their unique style. Our goal is customer satisfaction, pure and simple.”
What’s most rewarding about your work?
“Our customers’ loyalty is what has kept us going through the worst times of the economy. Clients return to shop with us for their special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, graduations and holidays.”
How do you give back to your community? “Each month we sponsor a special event honoring a charity that we are passionate about. A percentage of our sales for that evening go to those in need, whether it’s women returning to the work force, sick children or animals that need to be adopted. Our next special event, scheduled for September 17, will sponsor Noah’s Bark Animal Rescue. We are part of this community, and we sincerely want our presence to make a difference.”
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, SOUTHBAY
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Women in Business
Y
oga Loft has been in business in Manhattan Beach for 11 years, offering a beautiful ocean view, epic sunsets and 40 classes a week for beginner and advanced students. Owner Suzy Nece has been practicing and teaching yoga for two decades.
What makes Yoga Loft unique?
“Yoga Loft is a special place where you can practice on the beach without getting sand in your toes. We offer lighthearted but challenging vinyasa flow yoga, restorative, yin and meditation classes for all levels with the South Bay’s most inspiring teachers. We empower new teachers through our Yoga Mittra Teacher Training with Shelley Williams, Genevieve Pujalet and myself. We foster young yogis and teachers through GroovyKids Yoga with Greville Henwood and host master classes/workshops, parties, corporate team-building classes, and charitable events throughout the year.”
SUZY NECE Owner Yoga Loft
1112 Ocean Drive Manhattan Beach 310-372-7334 yogaloftmb.com
How have women supported you in your business?
“I may ‘own’ Yoga Loft, but our community of strong, creative women has built this studio from the ground up and continues to support it with love. I couldn’t do it without my ‘yoga sister wives.’”
FAST FACT
LA Yoga Magazine said Yoga Loft is “a welcoming place with a breathtaking view!”
How do you give back to your community?
“The Yoga Loft is committed to bringing a sense of well-being to the community. The studio’s staff and clients regularly share their talents to support events and organizations that alleviate the suffering of others, both in local and global communities such as: Wounded Warriors, Operation Gratitude, Walk with Sally, Jimmy Miller Foundation, Kids Play International, Malala Fund, Imagine No Malaria, Luca Knows Heart for Children’s Hospital, Yoga for Water, F*#! Cancer.”
What would you like potential clients to know about you and your working style? “To put a smile on someone’s face … that’s my yoga. I had the honor of teaching yoga and performing comedy for our troops in Afghanistan. Life is serious enough. I keep it light. The culture of this studio is one of inclusion and play. Yoga is union, connection. It doesn’t mean standing on your head, it means standing together. We don’t judge the shape that another’s yoga takes in the world. We encourage every small gesture toward peace … peace begins with you.”
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SOUTHBAY, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015
S P E C I A L A DV E RT I S I N G S E CT I O N
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PHOTOGRAPHED BY KARA MICKELSON
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Culinary a rtis ts. Ep
COMING THIS FALL
For more information on this special advertising section, reach us at 310-376-7800 or oursouthbay@moontidemedia.com.
Chris Adlam 310.493.7216 www.chrisadlam.com
One of a kind, 7600 square foot Palos Verdes Estates home. Stunning ocean views, 5 bedrooms, 9 foot ceilings, 12-seat movie theatre, incredible details through-out. Situated on a 21,000 square foot, flat lot. $6,199,000
REAL ESTATE OURSOUTHBAY.COM/REAL-ESTATE
THE BEST OF SOCAL LIVING
Views of ocean, sunsets and Catalina Island $5,995,000 Listed by Edler/DeRenzis Group Vista/Sotheby’s International 310-418-6210 / 310-872-4333 For more information see page 190.
Re Huge du Pri cti ce on
REPRESENTING PALOS VERDES’ FINEST HOMES & ESTATES FOR OVER 30 YEARS!
3300 Palos Verdes Dr. West, Rancho Palos Verdes
Wonderful 6 bedroom Home in Monte Malaga, PVE
This Imposing Villa, with 180 degrees of Ocean View and a Merlot Vineyard is a true work of art built in 1997. The great room includes a stunning mosaic of over 15,000 pieces of hand cut stone. Amazing interiors include 5 bdrm/10 ba, a formal dining room with ceiling molds from Caesars Palace, a gourmet kitchen with 2-storied pantry, massive master suite with his and her bathrooms and closets, elevator and dumbwaiter, paneled library with secret passage, a large wine cellar and five car garage. 12,000+ Sq. Ft. sitting on over 1 acre. This is a large very private estate atop a long gated and private drive.
Custom built executive home situated on a large flat lot with 6 bdrm/7ba and approx. 6,000 sq ft. Beautiful Queen’s Necklace and sparkling city night lights views can be enjoyed throughout. This home features an elegant formal living room and dining room, and the gourmet kitchen with top-of-line appliances and a huge center island opens to the family room and the lush backyard. All bedrooms are en-suites and the master suite features high ceilings, a large walk-in closet, a luxurious marble bath, and French doors that open to the balcony with fantastic coastline/ocean/city views. Downstairs are the media room, private office and 1bdrm/gym. Enchanting resort-like backyard with a gazebo, big grassy area and a spa that flows into the large pool with a cover. Custom quality, beautiful appointments and fine details. Great opportunity!
$10,800,000 | www.3300PalosVerdesDrWest.com
Lis New tin g
$3,299,000 | www.1504ViaMargaritaPVE.com
8 Ringbit Road East, Rolling Hills Perched high on the hill on 1.2 acres in the prestigious Rolling Hills gated community. 5 bdrm + office & 6 ba home boasting an expansive master suite with wonderful views, spacious walk-in closet, large shower/jacuzzi tub and fireplace! Bright and sunny with 4,633 sq ft of living space plus a barn that is currently being used as a workshop/hobby room. Single level, great open floor plan, fantastic gourmet kitchen, high ceilings, multiple skylights, 4 fireplaces and beautiful custom cabinetry and built-ins throughout. Enjoy miles of private horse trails with the security of a 24-hr guard-gated entry. Panoramic ocean/Catalina/coastline/sunset views from all major rooms. Redesigned and renovated in 1993, great opportunity to make it your dream home.
$3,199,000 | www.8RingbitRoad.com
1 Clear Vista Dr., Rolling Hills Estates Fantastic custom built home designed by well-known architect Russ Barto and built by West construction during 2000/2001. Featuring 6 bdrms, 7 baths with 5,766 sq ft of interior space, abundant storage, amazing two- story high beamed ceilings, a handsome stone fireplace, impressive staircase, and an open style gourmet kitchen next to the family room. Huge fully usable flat lot of approx. 20,000 sq. ft. 1 bedroom is being used as a study with all built-ins and its own bath; the master bedroom is on the ground level with walk-in closets and a huge bath. Upstairs, there are 4 bedrooms, a second family room, and a laundry room which is next to another huge storage closet. Wonderful kitchen with all top-of-lines appliances, fantastic butler’s pantry area with a wine storage. Huge wooded flat backyard with excellent privacy. Unbelievable value, you have to see to appreciate! Will not last!
$2,799,000 | www.1ClearVista.com
LILY LIANG Executive Vice President, Strand Hill Properties 550 Silver Spur Road, Suite 240, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 (310) 373-3333 | lily@lilyliang.com | Cal BRE# 00837794
WHO IS STRAND HILL PROPERTIES?
Strand Hill / Christie’s International Real Estate is a boutique real estate brokerage with offices located in Manhattan Beach and Palos Verdes. Strand Hill is an exclusive global affiliate of the Christie’s International Real Estate network.
WHAT IS CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE?
Established by James Christie nearly 250 years ago, Christie’s conducted the greatest auctions of the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries. Today, it is the world’s premier auction house and sets the standard for international art sales. Supported by the esteemed art auction house, Christie’s International Real Estate is a global network offering exclusive home and luxury real estate services to buyers and sellers worldwide. The Christie’s brand is instantly recognizable to clients and distinguishes your property from others. We focus exclusively on luxury residential real estate and understand how to reach and serve discerning clientele. Along with this expertise, we offer you the tailored, trusted service that our clients have depended on for 250 years, collaboration with our auction house colleagues, and referrals from our network of the world’s top brokers. Christie’s International Real Estate built its reputation on the rigorous selection of local brokerages. Our Affiliates are selected for their success in luxury property sales and their ability to meet strict standards of excellence. When awarded Affiliate status, they gain access to our global marketing programs, worldwide network of more than 1,350 affiliate offices and 32,000 agents across more than 47 countries, and the expertise of the Christie’s International Real Estate regional management teams.
The art of beach real estate
STRAND HILL PROPERTIES 1131 Morningside Drive, 2nd Fl. Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 +1 310 545 0707
550 Silver Spur Road, Suite 240 Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 +1 310 541 6566
info@strandhillproperties.com www.strandhillproperties.com
CAL BRE #01968431
Introducing
THE VILLAS AT TERRANEA
An exclusive collection of exquisite seaside second homes just 20 minutes from Los Angeles.
Become one of the privileged few who can call Terranea their own seaside sanctuary for every season. Choose from 2, 3 and 4 bedroom Ocean Golf Villas, each with its own sweeping ocean and sunset views, and gracious outdoor spaces perfect for a lifetime of entertaining family, friends and colleagues.
Call 310-265-2888 T ERRANEA R EAL E STATE.COM
TERRANEA REAL ESTATE
PRICING FROM $1,500,000 - $3,100,000 Only 14 Remaining
100 Terranea way, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
BRE LICENSE #1774333
TIRED OF LIVING TOO CLOSE TO YOUR NEIGHBOR?
19 Southfield Dr. Rolling Hills, CA - $3,999,000 • 4 Bedroom, 3.5 Bathroom | 4,159 SQ FT • Remodeled Ranch Style on 3 Acres • Exclusive Private Gated City of Rolling Hills • 180º Ocean and Canyon Views • Indoor/Outdoor Living
BRE #01346526
CHAD HEITZLER FAHLBUSCH 310.600.3555 | CHAD@SOUTHBAYCHAD.COM | WWW.SOUTHBAYCHAD.COM
The Most Trusted Name in Real Estate • EdlerDeRenzis.com
/EdlerGroup
@Edler_Derenzis
@EdlerDeRenzis
Darin DeRenzis 310.418.6210
Rick Edler 310.872.4333
Kitty Edler 310.283.8790
CalBRE# 01760239
CalBRE# 01113145
CalBRE# 00800837
Local Touch, Global Reach • 310.421.2814
Dedication (n.) ded路i路ca路tion A feeling of very strong support for or loyalty to someone or something; The quality or state of being dedicated to a person, group, or cause.
One of the fastest growing real estate brokerages in the South Bay. Manhattan Pacific is committed to making your dreams become a reality. Max Fitzgerald Chief Operating Officer 323-578-2485 Max@manhattanpacificrealty.com BRE: 01968956
Richard Haynes Owner / Broker 310-756-5588 Richard@manhattanpacificrealty.com BRE: 01779425
F O R B E SC O R R A L E S . C O M COASTAL PROPERTIES
ELEVATION IN PALOS VERDES
NAMASTE IN NoRo
285° OF PANORAMIC OCEAN VIEW
MODERN SERENITY IN REDONDO BEACH
5 BD | 5 BA | APPROX. 2,719 SF | APPROX. 20,641 SF LOT
4 BD | 3.5 BA | OFFICE SPACE | LIVING ROOM | FAMILY ROOM
$1,975,000
HIGH-TECH | HUGE BACKYARD $2,099,999
WORLD CLASS CALIFORNIA CONTEMPORARY
GROW – MB MARTYRS TREE SECTION
MONTEMALAGA’S MAJESTIC QUEEN’S NECKLACE OCEAN VIEW
COOL CONTEMPORARY CLOSE TO TOWN
7 BD | 7.5 BA | SWIMMING POOL | ELEVATOR | OFFICE
3 BD | 2.5 BA | APPROX. 2,329 SF | APPROX. 4,269 SF LOT
APPROX. 5,616 SF | APPROX. 16,081 SF LOT
CLOSE TO THE BEACH | LIVE OAK | NATURE TRAIL
$5,999,988
$2,450,000
LAUREN FORBES call | text 310.901.8512 Lauren@ForbesCorrales.com
JOHN CORRALES call | text 310.346.3332 John@ForbesCorrales.com
Broker does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size or other information concerning the condition or features of property provided by seller or obtained from public records or other sources, and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information through personal inspection and with appropriate professionals ©2015 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Coldwell Banker Residential
Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker® and the Coldwell Banker Logo, Coldwell Banker Previews International® and the Coldwell Banker Previews International Logo, are registered
service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Broker does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size or other information concerning the condition or features of property provided by seller or obtained from public records or other sources, and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information through personal inspection and with appropriate professionals.
Introducing the new ColdwellBankerHomes.com By uniting the websites of more than 20 leading Coldwell Banker companies under ColdwellBankerHomes.com, we’re making it easier to access the latest listings and neighborhood data, plus offering the opportunity to connect with a respected real estate expert in your local market—right from your mobile phone, tablet or desktop. Find your way home at ColdwellBankerHomes.com
Considering listing your home or making a new or next purchase? Make Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage your first call and experience the power of the #1 real estate brokerage!
MANHATTAN BEACH - METLOX PLAZA (310) 802-5700 451 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Ste D220, Manhattan Beach Facebook.com/ColdwellBankerManhattanBeach
PALOS VERDES - BEACH CITIES (310) 378-5201 68 Malaga Cove Plaza, Palos Verdes Estates Facebook.com/ColdwellBankerPalosVerde
ColdwellBankerHomes.com ©2015 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker® and the Coldwell Banker Logo, Coldwell Banker Previews International® and the Coldwell Banker Previews International Logo, are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.
Premiere Estate
PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD, ROLLING HILLS
This opulent custom built “Early Ranchero” features 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, 6781 sq. ft., a gourmet kitchen, theater room, entertainment bar, and an outdoor kitchen with a TV and fireplace, pool & spa with panoramic views. RollingHillsRanchero.com $5,595,000
your rolling hills specialists
The Inman Team
RollingHillsHomes.com | tHeinmanteam@gmail.com | (310) 944-5554
KEITH KELLEY BRE# 01810798
GORDON INMAN BRE# 00446156
Where we live, quality is a universal language. Innovation Intelligence Integrity Real Estate Reinvented
Rick Bender REALTOR ®
Senior Vice President Serving Discriminating Clients in the South Bay and on the Westside RB@LAdesign.com 916 Manhattan Avenue Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 CA BRE #01461798
§
310.306.7600
§
www.LAdesign.com
Michele Brown
Keller Williams South Bay AND
Excellent Fumigation HAVE BEEN SERVICING THE SOUTHBAY TOGETHER FOR OVER
20 YEARS Michele Brown and the
Real Estate Professionals
(310) 944-5188
(310) 970-0540 www.excellentfume.com WE SET THE STANDARD IN TERMITE & PEST CONTROL Southbay locals Family owned and operated since 1964 Alternative treatment options available No sub contractors
Selling the South Bay Since 1979 NW REAL ESTATE BROKERS, INC.
WWW.NWREBROKERS.COM
|
310.546.3468
R E S I D E N T I A L | CO M M E R C I A L | I N CO M E P R O P E R T Y | S A L E S | L E A S I N G | D E V E LO P M E N T
LAST BUT NOT LEAST
They are the World
A
record-breaking number of viewers tuned in to watch the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team defeat Japan at a thrilling World Cup final match in Vancouver this summer. Thanks to their recent triumph, the team is currently ranked #1 in the world and holds the most first-place finishes (three in total) in the seven FIFA Women’s World Cup events. Pictured here, Christen Press—a South Bay native and Chadwick School alum—celebrates scoring a goal against Australia on June 8. Congrats to Christen, Coach Jill Ellis and all the women who made the USA proud.
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oursouthbay.com
Experience courage
Ethel Smith, 53 | Breast Cancer Survivor Read Ethel’s full story at providence.org/sanpedro or providence.org/torrance.
Experience Providence cancer care “I love singing in church with my friends. I’m very grateful for the blessing that is Providence Health & Services.” When the diagnosis is cancer, it can be devastating. Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers San Pedro and Torrance are here to help, by combining our skill and technology with your courage, to fight the battle against cancer. Our cancer experts, working together with your healthcare team, are ready to support you every step of the way. We offer an integrative approach to cancer treatment, where technology and the healing arts come together, resulting in positive outcomes that exceed national averages for many kinds of cancer. We’ve combined the latest technologies and the most advanced treatments with a commitment to evidence-based, quality care for the whole patient — body, mind and spirit. Together, we have the courage to fight cancer. For more information or a free physician referral call 888-HEALING (432-5464) or visit california.providence.org.
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