Health I 2015

Southbay health TWENTY-FIFTEEN OURSOUTHBAY.COM

Volume 6

DISPLAY UNTIL OCTOBER 2015

A HEALTH CARE RESOURCE GUIDE FOR WHERE WE LIVE P.58

Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance is proud to be named one of America’s

100 Top Hospitals® by Truven Health Analytics — for four years running. We are also ranked, once again, among the Top 5% in the Nation by Healthgrades®. These prestigious awards represent our continued commitment to providing excellent care to the community we serve. And we’re happy to share these honors with all of you.

To find out more or for a free physician referral, visit us online at providence.org/torrance or call us at 888-HEALING (432-5464).

Find and follow us:

enjoy bites from these local restaurants:

Cancer Support Community Redondo Beach’s 19th Annual

Bettolino Kitchen Bottle Inn Restaurant Chocolate Fountain Pros.

Cozymel’s Critics Choice Catering Doma Kitchen • Establishment Fresh Brothers Gaetano’s Restaurant Hey 19 • Hostaria Piave HT Grill • Jus’ Poke Kincaid’s • Lisa’s Bon Appetit Marsatta Fancy Chocolates

Food & Wine Tasting in the Garden

Ortega 120 • P.V. Grill Paul Martin’s American Grill

Sunday, June 28, 2015 • 3-7pm

Red Car Brewery & Restaurant Whole Foods

South Coast Botanic Garden

tastings from these wineries, breweries & beverages:

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$150 per person

Ballast Point Brewing & Spirits Barsha Wines & Spirits Castle Rock Winery Cuatro Dias Winery

(must be over 21 years of age)

To participate, sponsor, donate or for more information call 310.376.3550 or visit

www.CancerSupportRedondoBeach.org cscrb

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thank you generous sponsors: Beachfront Property Management

Griswold & Griswold Insurance Agency

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Photo Sciences Piazza, Donnelly & Marlette

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Roland’s Wines • Sierra Nevada Wine Shoppe

Southbay Magazine South Coast Botanic Garden Foundation Torrance Memorial Medical Center Vantage Oncology

Daily Breeze • Easy Reader • Beach Magazine • Peninsula People Palos Verdes Peninsula News • The Beach Reporter

TEENS CONNECT

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The doctor will today see

Same-day appointments now available When you, or a loved one, need to see your doctor, the last thing you want to do is wait around. At UCLA Health, we want to ensure all of our patients receive the best care in the timeliest manner possible. That’s why we now offer same-day appointments in 27 specialties.

Call us before noon and we’ll schedule you for that day. Call us in the afternoon and we’ll schedule you for the next day. At UCLA, it begins with you. And now it begins today.

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____EDITOR’S LETTER

PUBLISHER

Jared Sayers, 310-502-8262 jared@moontidemedia.com EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Darren Elms CREATIVE DIRECTOR Angela Akers

MIX IT UP Welcome to our sixth edition of Southbay HEALTH, a lifestyle publication celebrating the best in Beach Cities wellness and fitness. The first issue of the year usually puts us right around the top of the summer months as everyone ups their fitness game to get beach-ready. What’s your secret to a sound body and mind?

This issue, we feature a handful of people whose approaches to health are anything but conventional. Perhaps the most unique of them all is our very own “Unigeezer,” Terry Peterson—the mobile master of the unicycle who puts us all to shame with his one-wheel skills at a young 59. Another South Bay great, speaker and humorist Tom Sullivan, invites us to explore our mental wellness with laughter, lessons and plenty of inspiring advice.

Also in this issue, a fitness equipment mogul who crushed cancer, a popular South Bay pediatrician with a roster of happy and healthy patients, fitness drink entrepreneurs, enterprising local board designers, yoga for the weekend warrior and many more awesome stories and useful information.

We also profile a number of health and medical professionals, from orthopedic therapists to cosmetic surgeons to eye specialists, to name a few. Find out what they prescribe for their patients and how they keep fit out of the office.

Wishing you a happy and healthy summer season.

– Darren Elms, Editor

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Elena Lacey Michelle Villas COPY EDITOR Laura Watts CONTRIBUTORS Diane Barber, Michele Garber, Amber Klinck, Kara Mickelson, Stefan Slater, Nancy Sokoler Steiner PHOTOGRAPHERS Jeff Berting, Siri Berting, Nicole Leone, Kara Mickelson, Michael Neveux, Lauren Pressey

TODD KLAWIN

Managing Partner

ADVERTISING HEALTH ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Derek Poole, 310-266-3846 derek@moontidemedia.com Erika Carrion, 310-897-2424 erika@moontidemedia.com

MARKETING & OPERATIONS PARTNER & BRAND PUBLISHER Emily Stewart Baker DIRECTOR OF MARKETING Cherice Tatum MARKETING MANAGER Kaleena Cano OPERATIONS MANAGER Allison Jeackjuntra BUSINESS AND FINANCIAL CONSULTANT Karina Aguiar

CHARLES C. KOONES Managing Partner

No part of this periodical may be reproduced in any form or by any means without prior written consent from Moon Tide Media, LLC. Any and all submissions to this or any Moon Tide Media, LLC publication become the property of Moon Tide Media, LLC and may be used in any media. We reserve the right to edit.

TO OUR READERS Southbay Health magazine welcomes your feedback and reaction to our magazine and stories. Please send your letters to: Reader Response Department, SB Health Magazine, PO Box 3760, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266. Please include your name and address and email address in case we need to contact you. Letters may be published. We reserve the right to edit.

58 11th Street Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 Tel 310-376-7800 • Fax 310-376-0200 MoonTideMedia.com OurSouthbay.com

8 Southbay Health 2015 | oursouthbay.com

The most important meeting of your day might not be the one on your calendar.

When you’re thinking of others—your family, your community, their future—investing takes place in a whole new context. The right advisor is one who understands that. And who understands that your personal and business challenges go hand in hand.

From tax planning to wealth management and family office planning, we help individuals and business owners invest wisely, plan strategically, and set a clear course to their goals. How can we help you prosper?

W W W. M O S S A D A M S W E A LT H A D V I S O R S . C O M / S O U T H B AY

Jim Schlager, MS, CFP®, CLU®, ChFC®, Principal

30

Professional volleyball player Jeremy Casebeer holds court in style.

INSIDE 12 Helpful Advice From

Pediatrician Dr. Rita Tenenbaum 14 Sporty Summer Essentials 15 Preventing Sport Injuries 16 Healthy Home Cleaning 18 Riding the Wave With

E-Tech Surfboards 22 Media: Brain Power 24 The Great 8 Foods 10 Southbay Health 2015 | oursouthbay.com

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JEFF BERTING

26 GMO 411

48 Massage on Call

28 Yoga for the Weekend Warrior

49 Tips for a Better Night’s Sleep

30 Beach Fitness Fashion

50 A Road Less Traveled with the “Unigeezer”

36 Inventing Invigorade

54 Seduced by Sedona

38 The Extraordinary Lightness

of Being Tom Sullivan

114 Book It: Your Active Calendar

44 The Withers Family Local Legacy 46 Weight of the World

HEALTH CARE RESOURCE GUIDE 58 Meet the South Bay’s Wellness Leaders

12  Southbay Health 2015 | oursouthbay.com

Kids’ Choice

Q&A

A conversation with South Bay pediatrician Dr. Rita Tenenbaum INTERVIEWED BY AMBER KLINCK PHOTOGRAPHED BY SIRI BERTING

O

riginally from Russia, Rita Tenenbaum, MD, moved to the South Bay 25 years ago and opened her own practice serving the kids (and parents) of her new community. She now works at the new Torrance Memorial facility located at Pier Avenue and PCH in Hermosa. We caught up with the busy doctor to chat about her journey to the states, parenting, her practice and thoughts on vaccines—among other child health topics.

IN 1990 YOU AND YOUR HUSBAND MOVED FROM RUSSIA TO THE UNITED STATES. HOW DID YOU LAND IN THE SOUTH BAY? Dr. Rita Tenenbaum: The relatives we came to live with bought a house in Redondo, and we fell in love with the neighborhood. When we moved on our own, we had our first apartment in Hawthorne. Then we moved to Torrance. We finally settled in North Redondo Beach, and that’s where we lived when I went through residency.

HOW WAS THE TRANSITION, COMING FROM RUSSIA TO SUNNY SOCAL? RT: It was different … but if you embrace the new place you go and embrace the culture with open ears and open eyes, you’ll succeed. And that’s what we did.

Really, first birthdays should be in celebration of the parents. They made it through the first year with a happy and healthy child, and they should be praised for every moment of that.

ANY TIPS FOR AVOIDING THE CONSTANT CYCLE OF ILLNESS THAT HAPPENS WHEN KIDS START PRESCHOOL? RT: First of all, they’re going to get sick. You just need to accept that fact.

If you go into it knowing this, you’re not going to be panicking every time they catch a cold.

My advice: When your child comes home from school, have them take their shoes off and change them into home clothes. This way whatever sneezes and germs they carried home from school, you’re taking off. This is what I did with my own kids, and this is something I tell all my patients.

Also, wash their face and wash their hands.

“YOUR CHILD IS YOUR CHILD; YOU CANNOT RAISE THEM BASED ON ANYBODY ELSE’S EXPERIENCE BUT YOURS.”

WHEN DID YOU FIRST KNOW YOU WANTED TO WORK WITH CHILDREN? RT: I love kids; I always felt that kids were so much more fun than adults.

Also my parents were both physicians. My mom was an OB/GYN, so I heard about deliveries and babies all my life, and my dad was a psychiatrist.

When I made the decision to go into medicine I opted for pediatrics, and I’ve loved every moment of it.

CAN YOU TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR HERMOSA BEACH LOCATION? RT: It’s a great location, and location matters because you have to be accessible. I’m between two schools. I’m next to the performing center where the kids go—I’m literally in the middle of their world. Also it’s easy for the parents. I find most of my patients live locally; I see them at the beach, in the restaurants. It’s a very homey feeling here, and I love it.

WHAT ADVICE CAN YOU GIVE NEW PARENTS BRINGING HOME BABY FOR THE FIRST TIME? RT: Your child is your child; you cannot raise them based on anybody else’s experience but yours. You can read many books, but by the end of your child’s first year, you’ll be able to write the book on your child.

WITH VACCINATIONS HAVING SUCH A LARGE PRESENCE IN THE DISCUSSION OF OUR CHILDREN’S HEALTH CARE, WHERE DO YOU WEIGH IN ON THE MATTER? RT: I love vaccines; I think they are the future. The diseases we vaccinate against, not a single one of them is curable. And if we think about that and how many things we have going around, how many colds your child gets within the first year … if on top of all of those colds your child were to get one of these diseases we vaccinate against, how many of the children who go to school today would not make it through their first year?

But I do think we need more education about what vaccines are and how they work. There is so much misconception about how vaccines are made and how they are prepared.

OVER YOUR 15+ YEARS WORKING WITH YOUNG PATIENTS, ARE THERE ANY MOMENTS IN PARTICULAR THAT HAVE LEFT AN IMPACT? RT: When one of my first patients came to me with her own child, that made me feel, on one hand, very old … and on the other hand, very loved.

Because if she trusted me with her health and now trusts me with her child’s, that tells me I’ve done something good. §

oursouthbay.com | 2015 Southbay Health

13

KIDS STUFF

“Do You Even Lift Bro?” onesie $11.95 thecheekybaby.com

Play Balls

by Crocodile Creek, $10 Gum Tree in Hermosa Beach gumtreela.com

Radio Flyer Classic Red Dual-Deck Tricycle $54 Target in Manhattan Beach target.com

Sporty Summer Essentials Shape up your young one’s cache

Blissful Beginnings bag (filled with organic baby goodies) $138 paleta.com

with these solid seasonal items.

Baby Jogger Summit X3 single jogging stroller $429.99 Pampered Tot in Hermosa Beach pamperedtot.com

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Honest Sunscreen SPF 30 $13.95 The Honest Company honest.com

Native Kids Jefferson shoe in Hollywood Pink $32 Sol Baby in Hermosa Beach sol-baby.com

KIDS HEALTH

F

GOOD SPORTS

rom soccer to surfing, kids in the South Bay are active year-round.

Unfortunately, sports-related injuries do happen from time to time, which is why we reached out to board-certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Peter Borden for a few suggestions on how children can prevent these types of injuries from occurring.

Dr. Borden, who deals with athletes of all ages, notices two types of injuries amongst young athletes. There are the occasional traumatic injuries, he notes, “where kids are usually playing sports or falling off skateboards or bikes, and those types of injuries are fractures or meniscus tears.”

And there are also the repetitive-use trauma injuries, which Dr. Borden notes are something he deals with quite frequently here in the South Bay. These injuries occur when a child practices a sport at a high level and high intensity around the year—say, for example, a child who plays soccer at high school and also on a competitive club team.

“They have a higher frequency of practice,” he says, “and due to a higher level of competition, these kids are suffering injuries which their bodies would normally heal.” So when a child practices one sport yearround at a high intensity with little rest, there’s a chance that he or she may overuse certain muscles, tendons or joints.

Because club sports are so competitive, these children often choose to not take breaks, which means these injuries can keep happening. “We see a lot of young soccer players with tendinitis-type injuries of the knees, young baseball players with problems in the shoulder and elbow,” Dr. Borden says.

He adds that children all grow at different rates. With younger children who are still growing, they have open growth plates in and around their joints. The growth plate is an area of tissue that’s still growing, typically located near the ends of long bones in children and adolescents, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. If a child puts too much stress on his or her body and is not

A local orthopedic surgeon provides useful tips on keeping your athletic kids healthy and uninjured.

WRITTEN BY STEFAN SLATER

allowed enough rest in order to fully recuperate, this may cause stress to the growth plates, which can lead to future problems as an adult.

However, it’s important to note that injuries do happen—they’re simply a part of being active and participating in a sport. Furthermore, Dr. Borden notes, it’s often difficult for young athletes to take time off from their favorite club sport.

“It’s very hard for kids in club sports to sit out. Sometimes they have a hard time with that. Once they recover, they go back to their initial level of activity and poor mechanics, and they then re-injure themselves,” he says.

In order to prevent repetitive-use injuries, it’s important for young athletes to stay in decent, all-around shape throughout the year. That means focusing on training all of their muscles, especially ones that they may not use in their main sport of choice.

Furthermore, maintaining proper flexibility through stretching as well as proper nutrition can help not only prevent repetitive-use injuries, it can also help limit the amount of time needed to rehabilitate certain injuries.

Dr. Borden adds that if a young athlete injures a specific muscle or joint, it’s crucial that they seek a medical specialist immediately.

“The best treatment is to see a specialist that specializes in that particular body part as soon as possible,” he says.

He stresses that proper body mechanics are absolutely crucial when it comes to reducing injuries. “If you have a gymnast, the proper way to dismount can prevent injuries to the ankle or the back. Or proper swing mechanics can help to reduce undue stress in muscles for golfers.”

By staying in shape, eating right, stretching and focusing on perfecting form and body mechanics, a young athlete can reduce their chance of incurring a repetitive-type injury. Dr. Borden says a child shouldn’t be discouraged from practicing a sport year-round, as long as they also take care of themselves.

oursouthbay.com | 2015 Southbay Health

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HOME HEALTH

A healthy home = a healthier family WRITTEN BY NANCY SOKOLER STEINER

Spring cleaning transcends time and culture. Persians perform khaneh takani (“shaking the house”) as part of a New Year tradition of cleaning and scouring the home inside and out. The Chinese also mark the New Year by cleaning; it is seen as a way to sweep away any bad luck from the previous year and make space for good fortune in the year to come. In Jewish culture the house receives a thorough cleaning to rid it of crumbs in preparation for Passover.

Whatever its origins, spring cleaning provides an ideal opportunity to address the areas in our home that may need purging, cleaning or refreshing. And it can benefit our health as well. A thorough spring cleaning can unearth outdated foods and medicines, help reduce household allergens and reveal safety hazards. Plus it just makes you feel good.

ATTACK THE CLUTTER It’s hard to clean surfaces that are covered in clutter. But where does one begin the uncluttering process?

“Start where it will do the most help,” advises professional home organizer Heather Baker of New Season Organizers. “For most people that means the kitchen or the bathroom.”

In the bathroom check the medicine cabinet for expired medications, lotions and cosmetics. Sunscreen, for example, usually has an expiration date after which it is less effective. For medications that have expired or that you no longer use, look for take-back events or locations.

Once you’ve removed expired or unnecessary items, says Baker, categorize what remains. “Separate and store items by their use—for example, shaving items, dental items or hair care items.”

In the kitchen look for broken or duplicate tools and seldom-used appliances. Clean the refrigerator and cupboards, disposing of any expired foods.

Throughout the house, “Get rid of what you don’t need,” says Baker. She advises giving away items that haven’t been used in the past year. If that is too difficult, she suggests placing the items in a box marked with the date

16 Southbay Health 2015 | oursouthbay.com

and the word “donate.” After a year if you haven’t missed anything in the box, give it to charity.

CLEAR THE AIR Sometimes we don’t realize how much dust and grime can accumulate in our homes. Take the time to wipe walls, dust light fixtures, scrub floors and shine windows. Especially for those with allergies, it is important to clean curtains, carpets and linens such as comforters and pillows.

Check air conditioning and heating system manuals regarding how often to change filters. Generally it should be done about every three months, or more frequently if someone at home has allergies or asthma. Look for filters with a higher MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value) rating. If you have a fireplace, have your chimney professionally cleaned.

SAFETY DANCE Look for old cleaning products, used batteries, old cans of paint and other forms of toxic waste. There are many hazardous waste disposal locations in the South Bay; check your city’s website for ones nearby.

Change the batteries in your smoke detectors. This should be done twice a year; linking it to the spring and fall time changes can be a handy way to remember. Check your fire extinguisher. Restock your emergency kit.

Don’t expect to complete all of your spring cleaning at once. Make a list and schedule times that make sense. Perhaps you want to dedicate an hour a day for a certain period of time. Or maybe you prefer to set aside a couple of weekends.

Completing these tasks can make your home healthier, safer and more appealing. So if you haven’t already, consider making spring cleaning part of your tradition.

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RIDING THE

WAVE -Tech Surfboards is neatly tucked away, almost hidden along a quiet avenue where single-story homes collide with blocky, austere industrial complexes in Hawthorne. But the shop’s unassuming location belies its importance within the South Bay’s surfing scene: E-Tech’s owners Todd Patterson and Ryan Harris create some of the most advanced and high-quality eco-friendly surfboards currently available on the global market.

“About 12 years ago I started getting really sick, and no one could figure out what was wrong with me,” says Patterson. He served during the Gulf War, and once he returned home he became ill.

Doctors couldn’t determine the exact reasoning. It’s believed that he suffered some kind of chemical exposure during his service

18 Southbay Health 2015 | oursouthbay.com

How the South Bay’s own E-Tech Surfboards became one of the leading eco-friendly surfboard manufacturers in California.

WRITTEN BY STEFAN SLATER PHOTOGRAPHED BY JEFF BERTING

(the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs notes that “chronic multi-symptom illness,” also known as “Gulf War Syndrome,” is a well-known condition amongst Gulf War veterans).

Unable to find a way to treat his illness, Patterson turned to surfing. “A buddy of mine happened to be going surfing one day, and I knew the water made me feel better. I thoroughly believe that surfing saved my life,” he says, adding that the sport helped him tremendously both physically and mentally.

He made surfing a priority in his life.

A self-professed tech geek (he’s a former recording engineer), Patterson developed a profound interest in the tech and mechanics of surfing. He wanted to know how the boards worked and how they were shaped.

He ended up purchasing a board from Harris, who taught him how to shape. Once Patterson started making boards, he noticed just how toxic the materials that are typically used to make boards could be. The crucial board materials are typically petroleum-based (like polyurethane).

“I [didn’t] want to make myself sicker and breathe in any more toxins,” he says. So Patterson partnered with Harris (who was also dabbling in eco-friendly board design at the same time) and began creating a series of environmentally friendly boards.

“Now we do everything from the shortest short board to the 14-foot racer paddleboards,” says Patterson. Most of the shop’s orders are custom, and they also shape eco-boards for Channel Islands, Lost Surfboards and Roberts Surfboards.

E-Tech occupies a unique position in the surf world: The shop uses recyclable and renewable materials to make their boards. For example, they use recycled EPS foam board blanks, wood features such as bamboo decks, a specialized recyclable ballistic material (as an alternative to fiberglass) and a resin called Super Sap that’s made by Entropy Resins and is also bio-based.

“It’s a bio-based epoxy,” says Patterson about the resin. “It’s made from the waste streams of the wood pulp and bio-diesel industries. So it’s not only bio-based, it’s made from other industries’ waste.”

The resin doesn’t smell either, which means that the duo doesn’t have to wear respirators in the glassing area of the shop. “You could be in here with racks full of wet boards, and there wouldn’t be any smell,” he says.

“WE’RE LITERALLY USING MOTHER NATURE—SUSTAINABLE RESOURCES—TO MAKE A MORE [EFFICIENT] PERFORMANCE PRODUCT.” oursouthbay.com | 2015 Southbay Health

19

Harris, formerly a footwear designer for Nike, jumped on board with Patterson because no one, as far as he could see, was making truly eco-friendly boards. They both saw a need for something different in the industry.

“We were both doing eco-boards, but there was no service.

There wasn’t a place to go if you wanted an eco-friendly glass job, whether you’re a backyard guy or a bigger label,” he says.

Patterson says they’re not creating eco-boards solely for the sake of being environmentally friendly. He notes that the surfboard industry has struggled to modernize and utilize new, renewable

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resources, and he hopes E-Tech can help change that. “We’re about bringing new, environmental technology to the industry,” he says.

“We’re literally using Mother Nature—sustainable resources— to make a more [efficient] performance product,” says Harris.

Both shapers have plans for E-Tech and the environmental surfboard movement, and they look forward to creating new and even more renewable and sustainable surf products in the future.

“We’re on the forefront of this whole thing. And we’re proud of that,” says Patterson. §

MEDIA

Brain Power

If your 2015 resolutions seem as distant in memory as winter rain, you’re not alone.

But fret not. It’s not too late for a reboot. Here are a few books to get you back on the path to healthier living and make the most of summer in the South Bay. EDITED BY MICHELE GARBER

BETTER THAN BEFORE:

MASTERING THE HABITS OF OUR EVERYDAY LIVES

BY GRETCHEN RUBIN

Author and self-described “street scientist” Gretchen Rubin has always been fascinated with human nature and especially the subject of happiness. She wants to know how and why some people can change habits while others cannot. Through extensive research she discovered that most people fall into four personality types based on how individuals handle expectations. In Better than Before, Rubin helps readers pinpoint which type they are and—armed with that knowledge— develop the skills to form good habits and break bad ones. From minor changes like drinking less soda to waking up earlier to major changes such as quitting smoking or losing weight, creating new habits can help us live happier and healthier lives.

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THIS IS YOUR DO-OVER:

THE 7 SECRETS TO LOSING WEIGHT, LIVING LONGER, AND GETTING A SECOND CHANCE AT THE LIFE YOU WANT

BY MICHAEL F. ROIZEN, MD, FORWARD BY MEHMET C. OZ, MD, WITH TED SPIKER

The Cleveland Clinic’s chief wellness officer and co-author of the best-selling YOU series, Dr. Michael Roizen believes it is never too late for a health Mulligan. In his latest book, Dr. Roizen discusses all the key areas that affect total-body wellness—from exercise and nutrition to sleep and stress. He offers tools and strategies to alter your health destiny.

Regardless of genetics or past bad health choices, Dr. Roizen’s “seven simple secrets” can reset your health, reverse damage and optimize your wellness and vitality.

GOOD FOOD, GOOD LIFE:

130 SIMPLE RECIPES YOU’LL LOVE TO MAKE AND EAT

BY CURTIS STONE

Once those bad habits are broken and new habits are formed … and we’re well on our way to enjoying a happier, healthier summer, what better way to embrace it than by sharing a sumptuous, delicious meal with good friends and family. In his newest book, Curtis Stone shares 130 of his favorite recipes to make cooking a pleasure rather than a chore.

From his “Favorite Breakfasts” and “Satisfying Snacks” to “Scene-Stealing Dinners” and “Sweet Treats,” Stone reminds us that good food is an essential part of good living.

NUTRITION

THE GREAT 8 ESSENTIAL INTAKE FOR A HEALTHIER BODY WRITTEN BY KARA MICKELSON

Y

ou’ve heard it before: ”You are what you eat.” It’s a catchy phrase, like “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food” by Hippocrates or “eat the rainbow” or the “dirty dozen”. Basically these short sayings are reminders, like mental sticky notes, that help you focus on a specific goal—like your health.

I confess. I like a reminder or two. Who wouldn’t want life to be simplified into small, pithy statements or declarations dotting your computer screen or refrigerator door? Thus the popularity of pinning, posting, tweeting whatever gem inspires.

However, the power of simplified messages is not the part reminding you to do something but the action that brings results. When it comes to your health and your body, numerous books, articles and TV shows are devoted to getting you pointed in the right direction, so it doesn’t hurt to have a simple plan to keep you on track.

According to Julie E of Julie E Health in Redondo Beach, “processed, high-caloric, nutrient-depleted food eventually destroys our bodies. The human body needs fuel just like an automobile. The quality of what goes in will make a difference on performance and proper functioning.”

So with that premise in mind, we have come up with eight great food choices for a better body in 2015.

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1 ::

HYDRATING FOODS

Experts say to drink eight glasses of water a day. Water is great for the body and so are nourishing foods with high water content that help flush out toxins.

Natural whole foods have the highest water content. Juicy fruits like peaches, grapefruit, strawberries and melon are great as a midday snack. Radishes, carrots, zucchini, tomatoes, broccoli, celery and cucumber will provide a nice crunch while delivering needed water and nutrients to your cells.

2 ::

HIGH-QUALITY PROTEINS

Your body uses amino acids in protein to build lean muscle. Highquality or complete proteins contain all essential amino acids.

Organic chicken and turkey, non-fatty white fish such as cod or occasionally trout, or wild salmon are all good choices. Eggs are considered the perfect protein and have all nine essential amino acids. The grain quinoa is also a complete protein. Plant-based protein found in legumes are easy for the body to process and digest and provide the needed amino acids when combined with a balanced diet including grains.

3 ::

HEALTHY CARBOHYDRATES

Add complex carbohydrates from real whole, unprocessed or minimally processed foods to your diet that metabolize slowly. Skip white bread, pastries and sodas in exchange for whole grains, vegetables, fruits and beans that deliver minerals, fiber, vitamins and important phytonutrients. Add pureed vegetables and beans to sauces as a thickening and flavoring agent.

Consider baking or grilling fruits for a sweet treat. Private chef and certified nutritionist Ariane Resnick states, “Thick slices of roasted sweet potato can be used to house everything from burgers to a light sandwich, and they hold up as you eat them.”

4 ::

NUTRIENT-DENSE “SUPERFOODS”

Technically there is no such thing as a “superfood.” The term is mostly a marketing tool. However, foods that are nutrient-dense score high in micronutrients, vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals and antioxidant capacities, which make them super for you.

Think low-calorie in relation to beneficial nutrients. They can be everyday foods or exotic items recently on the market. Kale is top on the list, but also try Swiss chard to wrap sandwich ingredients. Include potent herbs and greens such as mustard, watercress and basil in salads and sauces.

Grab a copy of the ANDI (Aggregate Nutrient Density Index) guide before your next trip to the grocery store.

5 ::

FIBER-RICH FOODS Soluble and insoluble fiber help with weight loss by creating a full sensation and pushing waste and toxins through the digestive system. Artichokes, split peas and beans are good sources of fiber that can be blended for a sauce base, dip or sandwich spread. Liquid-absorbing chia seeds provide a healthy dose of fiber and create a thick, pudding-like texture. Skip artificial products and opt for fiber-rich whole foods.

6 ::

“GOOD” FATS

These foods offer healthy, essential fatty acids along with other nutrients to help sustain energy and help metabolize fat. Nuts, seeds and avocados, whole or blended, make great spreads. The creamy texture of avocados can also be used as a base for sauces, desserts or salad dressings. Use light coconut or seed “milks” without any additives for your coffee or in sauces or soups. See healthy food swaps below.

7 ::

HEALTHY FOOD SWAPS

8 ::

ENZYME-RICH RAW

While cutting out processed sugar and oil is desirable, most people struggle to find delicious, satisfying alternatives. Wildcrafted goldenberries are like nature’s SweeTARTS without any processed sugar.

They offer a concentrated boost of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory bioflavonoids while also curbing sugar cravings.

Try adding sea salt to seeded, dried dates or drizzle date syrup over roasted fruit for a sweet treat. Use pureed fruit and vegetables to add moisture to baked goods instead of oil. Get creative and experiment with unprocessed whole food options.

Foods that are organic, unprocessed, living plant foods—vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes and seaweeds that have not been heated or cooked above 104º—are considered raw, retain their natural enzymes and have high nutrient values. Raw food enzymes such as amylases, proteases and lipases aid digestion. Proponents of raw food claim that nails get stronger, skin gets smoother, your thinking clears and you sleep better.

Start slowly introducing more raw foods into your diet. Give green vegetable drinks a try, soak some raw oat groats overnight for a “betterthan-cooked” version of oatmeal, make your own nut or seed “milks” without added oils, artificial flavorings and sugars. Practice sprouting your own seeds and focus on quality ingredients verses quantity. §

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NUTRITION

GMO 411 Getting some facts straight on a controversial food topic WRITTEN BY KARA MICKELSON | ILLUSTRATED BY ELENA LACEY

Y

ou have probably heard about GMOs by now. The subject is in the news, discussed on morning talk shows, reviewed in food magazines, at the ballot box. Perhaps you have been sidestepping the conversations and mostly ignoring the chatter because you don’t really know where you stand on the issue of GMOs. It’s fair. Why jump into a dicey, politically charged debate, especially before your morning cup of “bulletproof ” Joe? You may not even be into politics, although politics is definitely in your food. That’s right: What you eat and how it’s labeled or not is just one of the many heated debates on the complex and nuanced issue regarding GMOs. To dismiss GMOs entirely is one thing, but how do you avoid them, assuming you want to, if you don’t know they are in the food you’re eating? Below are some important questions and answers that will help you weigh in on the topic.

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What are GMOs?

According to the World Health Organization, “Genetically modified (GM) foods are foods derived from organisms whose genetic material (DNA) has been modified in a way that does not occur naturally, e.g., through the introduction of a gene from a different organism.” (“Genetically Modified,” World Health Organization. Web. 1 April 2015) GM plants are currently developed to resist disease and insects and to create tolerant, “durable” organisms that withstand harsh chemicals such as pesticides and herbicides. Papaya, alfalfa, canola, corn, soy, sugar beets, cotton, zucchini and yellow summer squash are GMOs in production today. Research and development is in progress to introduce GM animals into the market.

Does “non-GMO” and “organic” labeling mean GMO-free?

Not entirely. Foods labeled “non-GMO” are not scientifically or legally proven to be 100% GMO-free; however “Non-GMO Project Verified” seals indicate that they have been rigorously tested for GMO “avoidance.”

“Products bearing the USDA organic label [must] be grown and processed without the use of toxic and synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, genetic engineering, antibiotics, synthetic growth hormones, artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, sewage sludge and irradiation.” (”Organic Trade Association.” Web 1 April 2015)

Is the debate in regard to labeling, or whether GMOs are inherently good or bad?

Is there a difference between a hybrid plant and a GMO?

Do proposed benefits of GMOs override the potential risks or unforeseen consequences of GMOs?

Who benefits from GMOs?

Both. Big agrochemical business, biotech firms, grocery manufacturer unions, and processed and snack foods associations are just a few that do not support mandatory labeling of GMOs. Prop 37, which supported mandatory GMO labeling, failed in California.

The debate against labeling is that consumers will be confused and food costs will rise. The inability to manage a pro-GMO marketing message may be a factor, as it could be problematic to the bottom line. The debate for GMO labeling is that we as consumers have a right to know what is in our food, and potential problems with GMOs can be easier to identify by clear labeling.

At this time nobody knows for certain. While not without controversy, GMOs have benefitted farmers in developing countries and prevented crop decimation. Papayas in Hawaii were genetically modified to resist the devastating ringworm virus.

Even The Bill Gates Foundation has funded GM “superfruits” with the stated goal of solving world hunger and malnutrition.

Herbicide tolerance and toxin-producing GMOs are particularly controversial as the goal is to create crops that withstand chemical weed killers and are pestresistant by including a bacterium into the organism as in Bt Corn. Essentially, the organism is modified to produce a toxic protein in its own cells that kills pests.

The debate is also whether these gene modifications add to ill health in the long term through unintended consequences, such as disrupting gut bacteria, creating chemical-resistant “super weeds and bugs,” being potential allergens (the body fights unknown organisms), causing autoimmune disorders and thus increasing health care costs and eliminating short-term economic gains.

Is there a global standard or practice on GMO usage and labeling?

No. More than 50 countries require some type of mandatory labeling for GMOs. In addition, many countries use a “precautionary principle” whereby they require labeling or reject GMO due to cross seed contamination or negative long-term effects on human and animal health that is not yet known.

The U.S. does not currently require all GMOs to be labeled yet has adopted a practice of voluntary labeling if the product is deemed similar to the conventional counterpart … and mandatory labeling if there is a significant difference. (“Modern food biotechnology, human health an evidence-based study,” World Health Organization. Pg. 51 Web. 1 April 2015)

Yes. Hybrid plants can occur outside a lab through selective breeding and cross-pollination, although second-generation hybrid organisms may not carry the same desirable traits as first-generation seeds. (“Food Renegade. Hybrid Seeds VS. GMOS” author Kristen Michaelis Web 1 April 2015) GMOs are created in a lab. Gene splicing allows for new organisms to be developed with unrelated plants or species. Of particular controversy is a new salmon in R&D often referred to as “Frankenfish.” This genetically modified fish grows faster and much larger than its conventional counterpart.

The short-term answer is the biotech firms that create the chemicals and own the patented seeds and the big food manufacturers and agribusiness that use their products. Profit comes from selling the GMO seeds and the chemicals to protect crops.

Non-GM crops can be cross-contaminated, and farmers can be penalized for seed patent infringement.

Gene patent limits are not fully defined for living organisms, thus creating a unique dilemma on ownership of the new living organism and concern regarding effects on biodiversity.

Are GMOs desirable for a growing global community?

The risk-benefit analysis of GMOs has yet to play out. Lack of transparency in labeling and insufficient human and mammal studies that span generations appear to be more of the immediate concern from proponents against GMOs. The long-term benefits of GMOs for producing durable, nutrient-rich, bio-fortified crops to feed a hungry global community are not to be ignored. However, language such as “generally considered safe” and “not likely to cause harm” invoke suspicion and concern for safety. Although many prescription drugs we consume have equally scary language, they do list potential side effects on the package inserts.

The topic of GMOs is complex. There are many sides to consider and debate. We don’t have all the answers, but with knowledge we can add our voice to the current debate.

Personally I like the idea of feeding the world, and I can support scientific advancement. Yet my mind can’t help wandering to a popular James Bond movie, Moonraker, and Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World.

As humans we always look for perfection … improvements that might be better. Whether a super race, super seed or super organism, the best answers can always be found in the details. §

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FIT BODY

TREE POSE

The Weekend Warrior South Bay yoga instructor Maya Talisa shows you how to end your week with four de-stressing and re-energizing poses.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY MICHAEL NEVEUX

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T

he South Bay is the perfect arena for your ultimate weekend activities— whether it’s surfing, running or hiking.

Being the weekend warrior that you are, nurture your body with the awesome power of yoga for whatever adventures lie ahead. Hold each of these four poses for five slow, deep breaths before switching sides.

>>TREE POSE

CRISS-CROSS FORWARD FOLD

Heighten your sense of balance, awareness and focus while strengthening your ankles and calves.

HOW-TO: While standing, shift your weight

onto your right foot. Place the sole of your left foot on the inside of your right leg above or below the knee. Lift your arms up toward the sky.

>>CRISS-CROSS FORWARD FOLD

Stretch your legs, specifically hamstrings and iliotibial band (outer/upper thigh), while opening the shoulders and releasing stress.

LOW-LUNGE WITH SIDE STRETCH

HOW-TO: While standing, cross your right

foot over your left. Clasp your hands behind your back and fold forward, moving your arms overhead toward the floor.

>>LOW-LUNGE WITH SIDE STRETCH

Stretch your hip flexors and side body while reducing hip tension.

HOW-TO: Set your hands on the ground and step your left leg back, dropping the knee to the floor. Reach both arms toward the sky.

Grab your left wrist with your right hand and stretch over to the right.

>>THREAD THE NEEDLE

Enhance hip mobility by stretching the lateral rotators (where leg connects to hip). This can relieve sciatic pain and low-back tension.

HOW-TO: Lie down and bend both knees

THREAD THE NEEDLE

toward the sky. Cross your right ankle over your left knee. Grab your left hamstrings with both hands and hug your right shin in toward your chest.

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STYLE

COMPETITIVE EDGE STYLED BY ANGELA AKERS PHOTOGRAPHED BY JEFF BERTING

Work or play, South Bay athletes know good style when they see it. We checked in with a handful of the beach’s best to find out what they’re sporting, both on the sand and off.

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JEREMEY CASEBEER Professional Volleyball Player jeremycasebeer.com HIPPY TREE FORREST TEE $40 HIPPY TREE TRAILHEAD TRUNK SHORTS $64 Both at Spyder Surf Hermosa Beach spydersurf.com HIPPY TREE HABITAT HAT $34 ET Surf Hermosa beach etsurf.com ECO DEMPSY SPORT EYEWEAR $125 dizmecoeyewear.com ELECTRIC NATO MEN’S WATCH Twin Fin Blue $120 Spyder Surf Hermosa Beach spydersurf.com ARBOR SHAKEDOWN LONGOARD $180 Nikau Kai Waterman Shop Manhattan Beach nikaukai.com

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MICHAEL HOLTZ U.S. National Swimmer michaelkholtz.com

TYR Swim Cap $2.98 Zoot Performance Tri $119 Aqua Sphere Kiaman Goggles $21.98 All at the Traithlon Lab Hermosa beach triathlonlab.com THE UNIT Neon Orange Nixon Watch $125 ET Surf Hermosa beach etsurf.com

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GEENA URANGO Professional Volleyball Player kcwcg.com/geena-urango BILLABONG LAST MINUTE WAVE COVER UP $63.99 Super Sports Manhattan beach supersportsmb.com O’NEILL LEOPARD DAZE TAB SIDE BOTTOM $40 O’NEILL BEACH STREET TRI TOP $42 Both at Diane’s Manhattan beach dianesbeachwear.com STREET LEVEL LASER CUT TOTE BAG $56 Spyder Surf Hermosa Beach spydersurf.com Thanks to Paradise Bowls in Hermosa Beach!

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CASSIDY WATTON Spartan Race Champion cassidywatton.com

WHAT THE SPORT SHORT $58 FREE TO BE BRA WILD $48 Both at LuluLemon Manhattan Beach lululemon.com NIKE LUNAR BALLISTEC TENNIS SHOES $164.99 Super Sports Manhattan Beach supersportsmb.com

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Before

After

Cosmetic Dermatology Services: Injectable Enhancers

Laser Treatments • Laser Genesis (treats acne

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scars, redness, skin texture and pore size)

• Restylane® • Perlane®

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• Radiesse®

(Laser Genesis + Solar Genesis)

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Also available: Natural and organic skin care products as well as prescription products

unwanted hair)

• Titan (treats lax skin on the face and under the chin)

• Laser Vein Therapy (treats spider veins)

• Pearl Laser (resurfacing)

Daniela Leslie, MSN, FNP-C Aesthetic Genesis, A Medical Corporation

310.543.2323 915 S. Catalina Ave., Suite B Redondo Beach, CA 90277

www.AestheticGenesis.com

With Endurance A former Johnson & Johnson employee starts a new kind of healthy drink company right here in Hermosa Beach.

WRITTEN BY STEFAN SLATER PHOTOGRAPHED BY LAUREN PRESSEY

I

n 2013 Dan Morad was in the midst of preparing for his first marathon: the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend. “I started researching the various nutrition [options] for the event,” he says.

Morad, now 28, has a background in biomedical engineering (he worked for Johnson & Johnson for roughly six years), and he actively sought a light, healthy beverage that could help him delay muscle fatigue. He wasn’t able to find anything that fit his needs.

“It became apparent to me that th`ere was a void in the marketplace. I took that to heart,” he says.

Morad partnered with a team of nutrition scientists, and after several months of research they developed Invigorade, which he calls

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an “endurance drink” rather than an “energy drink”—noting that the appeal of Invigorade is that, unlike sports drinks such as Gatorade, it features the amino acid beta-alanine. Studies have shown that the amino acid may help reduce muscle fatigue.

“It delays that burning sensation in your muscles, allowing you to go longer,” Morad says.

He adds that most sports drinks are “reactive,” in that they’re designed to boost your energy via carbohydrates and electrolytes after you’ve worked out. “I wanted to create something that’s proactive, something that could help you to delay muscular fatigue,” he notes.

While his beverage features carbohydrates and electrolytes that are also found in sports drinks, the beta-alanine adds a proactive element

FIT BIZ

that he believes is unique. “As you’re going, it’s buffering—allowing you to go longer,” he says.

Furthermore, Morad says that Invigorade is lighter and healthier than other sports drinks. He notes that when an athlete is working out, their senses are heightened, and overly sugary sports drinks can come across as being too sweet.

“We have half the sugar than they do,” he says, adding that Invigorade only uses natural ingredients. “Nothing artificial—no artificial colors, flavors or sweeteners. We use sea salt and cane sugar. It’s a healthier alternative to the high-sugar products on the market,” he says.

A Hermosa Beach resident, Morad believes that his product will prove beneficial to local endurance athletes-from marathoners to cyclists and

triathletes. “Our bread-and-butter is Southern California, from Santa Barbara to San Diego,” he says, adding that California is a true mecca for endurance sports. The drink is currently available at Fresh & Easy and Bristol Farms.

Morad adds that while endurance athletes are his target market, parents also tend to buy the drink as well. “They love the functionality of it,” he says. “We get a lot of parents who buy it as a healthier alternative to Gatorade and Powerade.”

Morad is hopeful that Invigorade will continue to grow commercially and that the brand will become more involved in the local sports scenes.

And concerning that first marathon, he ended up finishing after a little less than four hours. “I beat my goal,” he says proudly. §

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38  Southbay Health 2015 | oursouthbay.com

The Extraordinary Lightness of Being Tom Tom Sullivan says sighted people view life outside in.

Here’s why he chose to see life inside out.

WRITTEN BY MICHELE GARBER PHOTOGRAPHED BY LAUREN PRESSEY

H

e lives his life with passionate purpose. A man of immeasurable optimism and courage, he has overcome tremendous adversity, turning his disadvantages into advantages. His joie de vivre is infectious and inspirational. He has an uncanny gift for sharing a narrative, while his genuine love of life and people permeates his every sentence.

Tom Sullivan lives in the celebration of the senses. His stories are infused with the exquisite details of pure sensory experience, leaving the listener to feel as if they were there with him in those moments. He is engaging, sincere, charming and wickedly funny.

Sullivan is often called a renaissance man. He is a humanitarian, a sought-after motivational speaker, a best-selling author, a talented musical performer, producer, composer and a skilled athlete.

At 68, he has the stamina of men half his age, enjoying numerous athletic pursuits. An avid snow-skier, he also competes in marathons and triathlons and is a 21-handicap golfer. And he’s an occasional thrill-seeker, known to skydive and bungee jump.

Yet it is what Sullivan is unable to do that makes his achievements so remarkable and his story so compelling. He cannot see. He has retrolental fibroplasia—a condition causing loss

probably been able to see. When I look at it today—not as I evolved but today—I think God slotted me exactly where I belong.”

He adds, “I’ve been far more purposeful than I ever would have been had I been able to see.”

Sullivan grew up in the Boston suburb of Scituate, the youngest of three in an Irish-Catholic family. His entrepreneurial father hailed from the Irish village of Kinsale and owned nine Irish pubs by the time Tom was born. Though he loved Tom dearly, he couldn’t accept that he had a blind child—perhaps subconsciously feeling responsible for Tom’s condition.

Tom’s father wouldn’t say the word “blind.”

An archetypical proud Irishman, he believed in tough love and thought the best way for his son to thrive was to put him on the street, let him play with kids and find his path.

Tom’s mother viewed the best path for her son quite differently. She was determined for him to be academic and artistic, believing that hard work, commitment and intellectual pursuit would enable him to thrive. His parents were at cross-purposes and eventually divorced.

Ultimately the Sullivans sent young Tom to Perkins School for the Blind in nearby Watertown. Though Perkins is a world-class school situated on an expansive 30-acre campus on the Charles River, it was a poor fit for Sullivan.

Surrounded by a high fence, he viewed Perkins as an isolated world—while the world he dreamed of was a big one. Thus he often behaved

“If extraordinary people can do impossible things, isn’t it reasonable to assume that ordinary people can do extraordinary things?” of vision in premature babies. Tom Sullivan has been blind since birth.

Born in 1947, Sullivan was three months premature. While in the incubator he received too much oxygen, causing the retrolental fibroplasia that left him blind.

Though being blind has presented him with many challenges, Sullivan is not one to lament what others may see as misfortune. On the contrary, he embraces being blind as his destiny, crediting much of his life achievement to the inner strength he developed as a result of his blindness.

As Sullivan puts it, “If I was born three years earlier, I would have been dead because they didn’t have any incubators. And if I had been born eight years later, I would have been

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mischievously and proudly boasts holding the record for the most Perkins expulsions … a whopping 11.

Fortunately one of those infamous run-ins with school administrators led to the first in a string of Sullivan’s life-shaping encounters, or as he calls them, “People Points.” One night when Sullivan was 8 years old, he snuck into the kitchen, grabbed chocolate chip cookies and gave them to the other boys—who promptly got “cookie crap” all over their sheets.

The next day while Sullivan sat in the principal’s office awaiting his punishment, Helen Keller and her guide Polly Thompson walked in.

Keller, a Perkins alum, was there to be honored on her 75th birthday. Polly informed Helen that there was a boy in the office in trouble for steal-

ing cookies.

As Sullivan recalls, “Suddenly I heard this incredible little voice say, ‘Little boy, they tell me you’re a devil. Is that right, little boy?’ And I took her beautiful hand and spelled (signed) ‘Yes,’ and she said, ‘Good! Keep it up!’” In that one instant, Helen Keller changed Sullivan’s life, for she was essentially telling this rambunctious yet goodnatured child that anything is possible.

He adds, “And a big part of the work I do now is telling families, ‘Anything is possible.’”

Another significant People Point happened when Sullivan was about 14. He had a classically trained music teacher named Hank Santos who had played jazz in the USAF Band. Santos knew Sullivan disliked playing classical music, so he would often let him sing standards. Santos taught Sullivan about the great artists of the era, from Count Basie to Cole Porter.

One afternoon Santos informed Sullivan that in lieu of the day’s lesson, he was taking him to his home to play for some guests. As Sullivan recalls, “There were about 20 people. After we performed, a man came up to me and said, ‘Well, young man, my friend Hank tells me you’re a pretty pissed-off blind kid. Why is that?’” Sullivan launched into a lengthy diatribe of how he’s the best at being blind but can’t find his place in the sighted world, expressing his innumerable frustrations with life.

Finally the man said to Sullivan, “If you’re feeling that sorry for yourself, that anger isn’t going to get you anywhere. You better learn to be a teacher and a better communicator. You better learn how be interactive. And you better get that chip off your shoulder.” Then the man added, “By the way, I’m Martin Luther King.”

Sullivan’s sisters, Jean and Peggy, were quite a bit older than him. So when he was home from Perkins and lacking playmates, he would often play alone in his backyard, acting out childhood fantasies. His metal swing and his radio became his props. The swing doubled as Silver to his Lone Ranger, or a spaceship for his Flash Gordon, and with his radio he solved mysteries with The Shadow.

But his favorite fantasy was pretending to be a Red Sox player. He’d turn on the game, find rocks on the ground, hit them with his Louisville Slugger and run imaginary bases in sync with the player at bat.

On one summer afternoon, a neighborhood kid on the way home from the real game spotted Sullivan sliding into his imaginary home plate.

Realizing he was blind, the boy began repeatedly calling him “Blindy.” Infuriated, Sullivan hurled rocks toward the malicious kid until he eventually left. Then he sat down on his swing and wept.

“I realized in that moment that the only way to ever be equal was to work harder, to be better.

I’d have to be smarter, a better athlete, a better

artist. There was no compromise. If I wanted the world, I’d have to earn it.”

A few weeks later Sullivan had one of his most impactful childhood People Points. It was May 7, 1957 … the day Sullivan decided that no fence was too high to climb. Two brothers had recently moved in next door. Separating their yard from Sullivan’s was an 8-foot, chain-link fence his father had erected around the yard to keep him safe.

Sullivan would hear the boys next door playing catch or wiffle ball. On that fateful day, he decided to finally scale the loathed fence.

As he explains, “I grabbed that fence and pulled myself up, hand over hand, until I got to the top. I stood up there with my arms outstretched; then I leapt into space and crashed to the ground. Billy Hannon came running over and in his thick Boston accent said, ‘Wow! That was a gnarly fall. I’m Bill Hannon.’ I said, ‘I’m Tom Sullivan, and I’m blind.’ Billy replied, ‘Wowwww.’ Then he said the magic words, ‘Wanna play?’ That started a friendship that to this day is the best friend I have. It was the breakthrough. Billy taught me to play baseball, throw a football, box and wrestle. I taught Billy how two little boys could sit on the floor with a tape recorder, make up sound effects and call them movies. I taught Billy how I could read Huck Finn in braille aloud to him, and he could read Tom Sawyer to me. I taught Billy about the four senses, and Billy taught me about rainbows.”

Those People Point moments offered the lessons that became Sullivan’s guiding principles, informing his entire adult life. Helen Keller and Martin Luther King illuminated the human capacity to inspire. Billy Hannon demonstrated the vital importance of true friendship.

And from surviving the cruelty of the neighborhood bully to bravely scaling the fence confining his world, Sullivan learned that to succeed in life one must have courage of conviction and willingness to take passionate risks. As he succinctly puts it, “The drive to succeed is more important than the fear of failure.”

Determined to face future challenges head-on, Sullivan followed the guidance of both of his parents. He diligently continued to pursue his education. And with the help of Bill Hannon and his brother, Michael, he experienced the joys of boyhood: fishing, playing sports and taking the everyday risks that instill courage and confidence in children.

Jimmy Durante taught him the first scale on a piano. He knew Mae West and Jackie Gleason.

One summer while performing in an afterhours club, Sullivan was playing Duke Ellington’s “I Got it Bad (and That Ain’t Good),” when the room suddenly went silent. Sir Duke had walked in. He sat down with Sullivan, and the two sang his iconic tune together.

In the summer of 1968 Sullivan was performing nightly at The Deacon’s Perch on Cape Cod. He was handsome, single and thoroughly enjoying his independence. But his life was about to dramatically change.

Betty White and her husband, Allen Ludden, were performing in summer stock at the Cape

“I don’t presume, label or categorize.

And I’ve never met an ugly person —unless they wanted to be.”

As Sullivan transitioned into adult life, the talents and strengths he’d honed in childhood served him well. He attended Providence College and then Harvard. During his summer breaks he would play gigs in clubs to earn extra cash for his tuition.

Sullivan was comfortable in the realm of celebrities and nightclubs, having grown up around his father’s businesses, and he knew many of the greats of the vaudevillian era. As a 3-year-old he sat in Sophie Tucker’s lap and sang with her.

Cod Playhouse and became regulars at The Deacon’s Perch. Each night they’d come in to hear Sullivan play their favorite standards. Betty, Allen and Tom became lifelong friends, and Betty remains one of Tom’s closest friends today.

White and Sullivan have written three books together, and she is a second mother to him and honorary grandmother to his children, Blythe and Sully (Tom, Jr.). It was White and her husband who paved the way for Sullivan’s big break into show business, helping him get an agent and

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41

land gigs at clubs—leading to his more than 60 appearances on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson and launching his entertainment career.

That memorable summer of ’68 still held one more life-altering moment, courtesy of the incomparable Betty White. One evening while a flirtatious girl was chatting up Sullivan, White intervened. “Tom,” she said, “there is a girl that comes in here every night, and if you could see her look at you, you would never date anyone else.”

White pulled Sullivan over to the beautiful blond and introduced them. Her name was Patty Steffen. They sat down together, and the sparks were instant and all-consuming. They fell in love almost immediately, wed soon after and have been happily married for 45 years.

Perhaps no other life event had a greater impact on Sullivan than when he had a near brush with tragedy. Tom, Patty and their two children had recently moved to Los Angeles so he could pursue his entertainment career. On one fateful June day, Patty was grocery shopping while Tom was home with the children.

The phone rang, and Tom was momentarily distracted. In that brief time, he heard a splash in the pool. Blythe, age 3, had fallen in. Tom

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crawled to the pool and dropped himself into the water. He swam up and down feeling his way along the bottom, desperately searching, frantically calling her name, but he could not find Blythe.

As sheer panicked ensued, he prayed for a miracle, vowing that if God would spare his baby girl, he would devote his life to helping others.

In that moment, Sullivan heard the sound of air bubbles. Without the gift of sight, he had to tap into his own capabilities and utilize his acute senses to save his daughter. Following the sound of her bubbles, he pulled Blythe to safety and respirated her.

Blythe’s near-drowning was a turning point in Sullivan’s life. He openly admits that until that day—as is necessary for anyone in show business—his life was primarily about him. But on that day his priorities irreversibly changed.

From then on Sullivan sought to find balance, recognizing the things in life that truly matter.

He also became aware that people don’t truly comprehend their capacity. As he says, “You have to celebrate your gifts, not live inside your limitations. Life is the celebration of uniqueness.”

Sullivan went on to pursue his dream of entertaining and inspiring others. He has authored

multiple best-sellers—fiction and non-fiction.

He has given more than 3,000 motivational speeches, currently giving 60 per year for Allergan. Along with his frequent appearances on The Tonight Show, he was a special correspondent on Good Morning America, has had countless film and TV roles, and he sang the national anthem at the 1976 Super Bowl.

Sullivan is a philanthropist and humanitarian.

He supports numerous worthy causes, yet he is most proud of his association with the Blind Childrens Center. Over the years he and Patty have raised approximately $5 million to benefit this exceptional organization. Their biggest annual fundraiser, The Tom Sullivan Blind Childrens Center Celebrity Golf Classic, will be held June 22, 2015 at the Palos Verdes Golf Club, with featured speaker and Dodger great Steve Garvey.

Sullivan’s blindness has shaped but not defined his life … poignantly reflected in the words he wants on his tombstone: “Tom Sullivan was a father, a husband, an author, an actor, an athlete, a musician, a humanitarian, who happened to be blind.”

For tickets to The Tom Sullivan Golf Classic, call Laurie Headley at 323-664-2153, ext. 342 or visit blindchildrenscenter.org. §

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LEGACY

Deep Roots Celebrating generations of South Bay service and healthy smiles with the Withers family WRITTEN BY AMBER KLINCK

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istening to Dr. Jim Withers and Dr. Brian Withers talk about their hometown, it’s easy to hear how important the Manhattan Beach community is to the father-and-son duo. Their practice, Withers Dental, has been keeping smiles in South Bay healthy for more than 50 years. As a family, they also enjoy a rich history in the 90266.

The original Withers “mover and shaker” was Jim’s grandmother Maude, one of the original founders of the Neptunian Woman’s Club. Her son, Jerome Withers, held the prestigious position of Manhattan Beach police chief.

Ralph Rhind, a local OB/GYN who married Maude’s daughter, Kathryn Withers, was the doctor who delivered Jim. Kathryn and Ralph’s son, John Rhind, still runs his CPA practice from the 18th and Sepulveda office where Jim began his dental practice. And John’s son, Jeff Rhind, is currently a dentist in El Segundo.

In addition to the many family ties Jim and Brian have in the South Bay, their individual SoCal roots are just as strong. Both father and son attended Mira Costa High School, went to undergrad at USC and were even members of the same fraternity: Phi Delta Theta. Their paths to dentistry, however, were quite different.

For Jim, dentistry was in the cards from an early age. While working at the Chevron located across from where Uncle Bill’s is today, a young Jim Withers had a spark of inspiration. “There was a dentist that came by the service station, and a light bulb went off. Not long after, I was enrolled in the vocational program at Mira Costa.”

Though his interest in dentistry started early, Jim had another passion as well: baseball. At USC Jim pitched for the Trojans, taking them to two national championships and “setting a record for a ‘shutout’ win over Oklahoma State in the final game.”

His brother, Robert Withers, was also a Trojan, playing baseball under Coach Dedeaux. Jim’s professional career in baseball ended, however, when he started the USC dental program—a decision he has never regretted.

Brian, on the other hand, “was never particularly interested in dentistry,” though he was “always drawn to science and medicine.” At USC he kept himself busy with his studies, receiving a bachelor’s degree in international business with a minor in pre-med, lettering in rugby (he was also team captain during his senior year) and serving as the president of his fraternity.

When his interest did turn to dentistry, however, Brian moved full steam ahead, graduating from the University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco. There he would receive a community service award for his work with dental-based outreach programs, which included being a cofounder of the dental division of Project Homeless Connect.

Both Jim and Ellen, Brian’s mother, were incredibly proud of their son’s work. “She would tell the lady at the checkout stand,” Brian notes, explaining his mother’s excitement to share the news of her son’s achievements.

When Brian finished his studies in San Francisco, the decision to return to Manhattan Beach was an obvious one. “I knew I would come back here,” he says. “All of my friends are here.”

Of course there was also the incredible opportunity to work alongside his father. “It surprises me that we work so well together,” says Brian. “We can find just about anything to fight about. But when we’re in the office, I’m always learning so much from him.”

Returning to the South Bay has also enabled Brian to reconnect with his old team, the Mira Costa Mustangs. “I’ve become the team dentist,” Brian explains. “We do all the mouth guards for the team. If I do my job right with the mouth guards, the players won’t need to see me later.”

For Jim and Brian, Manhattan Beach is more than where they’re from; it’s where they call home. Quick to smile, Brian explains, “I love it here. People say Manhattan Beach has changed, but in our office it doesn’t feel that way.” §

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SURVIVOR

Weight of the World When fitness expert and equipment supplier Michael Garvey moved to the South Bay in the 1980s, he had no idea his greatest health battle was yet to come.

WRITTEN BY DIANE E. BARBER PHOTOGRAPHED BY LAUREN PRESSEY

W

ith an immense passion for exercise and helping people, Boston native Michael “Garv” Garvey landed his first job in California coaching high school sports in Palos Verdes.

He later worked as a fitness trainer and manager at the Sports Center (now Spectrum) in Redondo Beach and went on to sell exercise equipment.

Jobless in 1990 after the company he was working for relocated, he ventured out on his own. “I started my business selling equipment to gyms from an apartment in Hermosa Beach with a typewriter and a twoline phone. I created a superhero image for my logo that I knew people wouldn’t forget—and with tongue in cheek named my company ‘The Dumbell Man.’” By 1995 Garvey had hired a small staff and set up shop in an office in Torrance. His business was flourishing, and he was living the California dream—until his health began to rapidly deteriorate.

“One day I was as healthy as ever, jogging 10 miles on The Strand. Then suddenly I had no stamina, and my body was disappearing. I had no idea that my immune system was shutting down and that catching the flu could have killed me then.”

Ironically, on the 10-year anniversary of his business, Garvey was rushed to Little Company of Mary Medical Center in Torrance and was diagnosed with acute myelogenous leukemia. His body had stopped making blood, and he had a 50/50 chance to live. “Everyone knew I was dying, but I naively thought of blackjack and figured those were really good odds!” he recalls.

With eternal optimism and an unwavering sense of humor, Garvey faced cancer head-on and began a treatment program that lasted eight months.

Chemotherapy and radiation scrubbed the leukemia cells from his body, and healthy cells were taken from his own blood and infused back in.

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He lost his appetite and shed 50 pounds, while primarily intravenous fluids sustained him. He fought on to beat the odds. In 2000 doctors officially confirmed he was cancer-free.

Twenty years have passed since Garvey’s cancer diagnosis, and he is thriving personally and professionally. Though his immune system and stamina are weakened, his contagious optimism trumps that and any card he is dealt.

“I always tell people that attitude is the most important thing in life. The day I was diagnosed I cried and wondered, ‘Why me?’ But from the next day on, all I could think was, ‘I am going to just power through this!’”

While he was fighting for his life, his brother David kept The Dumbell Man business going. It has since expanded exponentially from selling a few products to small gyms to designing, supplying and servicing gyms and fitness centers for private residences and businesses—including Fortune 500 companies, police and fire departments, professional sports teams (including the LA Kings and Clippers), schools and even Cirque du Soleil.

“I really enjoy spending time with people who are going to use the equipment and teaching them about how it will help them, which is the best part of the job,” says Garvey.

As for life post-cancer, Garvey says it opened his eyes to the importance of giving back. “I learned the theory of doing well by doing good.”

He has volunteered for City of Hope, Cancer Support Community and other charities and raises money annually for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Through his philanthropy work he met his wife, Andrea, who was a bone marrow donor for her sister (also a cancer survivor).

Spirited Garvey is a superhero in his own right. Reflecting on his cancer victory, he says with a smile, “I’m like a cat. Flip me around, and I will land on my paws!”

Cancer 0, Garvey 1.

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SERVICE

Stress-Free Delivery

A massage therapist at your door in about an hour? Yes, please.

WRITTEN BY DARREN ELMS

I

n the age of instant, app-friendly services like Uber and Airbnb, there’s a new platform hoping to make a digital dent on the spa market. Say hello to Soothe.com, a company that allows you to book a top-notch massage therapy session on the same day with as little as 60 minutes notice.

Knotted up sitting at the desk all day? Or maybe you and your partner just need some combined time to unwind. No matter the reason for relaxation, this unique home experience has you covered.

Currently Soothe.com has more than 300 therapists who serve the greater LA

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area, with many located right here in the South Bay. These people are the real deal … highly trained, certified, insured practitioners who are willing to travel to offer their incredible service.

It’s all pretty straightforward. Sign up online or via the app and book the massage of your choice: Swedish, Deep Tissue, Sports or Couples and lengths of 60, 90 or 120. You pick the gender, the time and the location. Like Uber, all gratuity and tax is included so there’s no additional transaction beyond the booking. Easy as one, two, breathe.

Check them out at Soothe.com or upload the app on Apple iTunes.

HEALTHY MIND

California Dreamin’ The secrets of a good night’s sleep WRITTEN BY NANCY SOKOLER STEINER

A

mericans have a complicated relationship with sleep. Sometimes we crave it, sometimes we shun it and often we neglect it. But two things are certain: We need sleep in order to function, and many of us are not getting enough of it. Fortunately there are steps we can take to increase the quantity and quality of our sleep.

“We all know that sleep restores energy, but it does more than that,” says Khalid Eltawil, MD, medical director of the UCLA Sleep Laboratory in Torrance. “It helps us consolidate memory, it helps us function cognitively and it helps our mood.”

Lack of sleep can contribute to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity and depression. It can also reduce productivity and increase the chance for car accidents, medical errors and other problems.

“There’s a saying about sleep,” notes Dr. Eltawil. “Sleep is as important to your health as diet or exercise. It’s just easier to do.”

But many of us aren’t “doing” sleep very well. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has declared insufficient sleep to be “a public health epidemic.” In a National Health Interview Survey, nearly 30% of adults reported averaging fewer than six hours of sleep per night.

SET THE STAGE One of the most important ways to promote better sleep is by creating the right environment. Keep your bedroom quiet, dark and slightly cool, as well as free from clutter.

In addition, sleep experts emphasize that the bedroom should be a place for sleep and sex only, not other activities. So read work reports, catch up on email or talk on the phone elsewhere.

“The habits we form help us with sleep,” explains Dr. Eltawil. “If you do awake activities in the bedroom, your brain becomes confused about the purpose of the area. [It will wonder], ‘Is this a place to be on Facebook and watch TV, or is it a place to go to sleep?’”

PREPARE FOR YOUR ROLE Besides creating an ideal environment for sleep, we need to prepare our bodies and minds for rest. Avoid alcohol, caffeine and heavy or spicy foods in the hours before bed. And while exercise can promote sleep, it shouldn’t be done too close to bedtime.

Maintain a standard bedtime and wake-up time to help your body develop a good circadian rhythm. Even when you go to bed late, try to wake up at your regular time. Dr. Eltawil says naps aren’t necessarily bad but cautions that the time we spend sleeping during the day is deducted from the amount of time our bodies will need to sleep at night.

Many of us spend time in bed reviewing our day, planning the next day or worrying. Schedule some downtime earlier in the day to review these concerns rather than focusing on them at bedtime.

Some people find it helpful to have a pre-sleep ritual. This can include having a light snack, taking a warm bath, spending a few minutes reading or doing some deep breathing.

WHEN TO SEEK HELP If you’re not sleeping well, keep a sleep diary to help pinpoint habits that may be interfering with your sleep. If you’re still having problems, see your physician. Medical issues, depression and stress can all impact sleep. Or you may be one of the 40 million Americans who suffer from chronic, longterm sleep disorders such as insomnia, sleep apnea or restless leg syndrome.

“If you have a good night’s sleep and still feel sleepy the next day, something’s going on,” says Dr. Eltawil. “People may be embarrassed or shy or not know they should talk to their physician. They don’t realize it could be a sign of underlying medical issues and that there are treatments available. We spend one-third of our life sleeping, so it impacts our life quite significantly.”

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Just shy of 60, Terry “Unigeezer” Peterson finds health and happiness in extreme unicycling.

WRITTEN BY STEFAN SLATER PHOTOGRAPHED BY JEFF BERTING

O

n January 16, the day after his 59th birthday, South Bay local Terry “Unigeezer” Peterson rode his unicycle for 150 miles. “I had to turn that wheel around almost 85,000 times for the 16 hours I was pedaling,” says Peterson. He started cycling before sunup, beginning in Torrance and moving up and down along the South Bay’s coastline.

“I felt pretty good for most of the ride,” he says, adding that he had to pace himself for the majority of the trek, taking strategic breaks every 20 miles or so at first so he could eat a Power Bar, rest and then trek on. He notes that there were challenges, as one might expect when riding a hard-to-balance unicycle for 150 miles at roughly 10 to 12 mph.

“You can’t coast on a unicycle; you’re pedaling every inch of the way. For some people, riding 10 miles is an impossible feat. You only have so much strength and stamina,” he says.

Maintaining balance and momentum proved to be a potent physical and mental challenge for Peterson. But since he can usually be seen riding throughout the South Bay on a regular basis—ranging from the rough, rocky trails up in Palos Verdes to the smooth Strand down in Manhattan Beach—it’s no surprise that he managed to pull through just fine.

Peterson mostly did the run as a personal challenge of sorts. (He’s done other long-distance cycling runs before, including a 120-mile ride he did for leukemia awareness.) But the ride was also “a precursor to what I really want to do, which is a 24-hour, 200-mile ride … I’m planning for later this year.”

For Peterson, unicycling is part of his identity. It’s a challenging, unique sport—one that’s brought an ample amount of positive change to his lifestyle. In his opinion, unicycling provides a constant source of thrill and excitement, and he is grateful to be involved in the extreme unicycling community.

Growing up in the South Bay, Peterson received his first unicycle in 1967 when he was 11. (He refers to it as the “summer of unicycling.”) He took to the sport almost immediately, and it wasn’t long before he learned how to ride backwards, spin around and ride down small stairs.

“This was a long time before they were purpose-built,” he notes, and it wasn’t long before he started breaking his first unicycles. “My mom and dad were going broke buying me unicycles. I mean, there were five kids in the family,” he says.

He moved on from unicycling and delved into other activities, such as ventriloquism. Forty years later, Peterson was on the hunt for a new activity to pick up. A piano tuner by trade, he wanted something to keep him active and fit. After moving through all the classic sports and not finding anything of interest, he made a move back to unicycling.

In 2005 he picked up a unicycle and “went in the backyard, because I didn’t want people to see me fall on face. But I was pretty astonished: I got right on it and rode. It’s like a bike that way, I guess—you don’t forget.”

Peterson says the appeal of unicycling is that it constantly demands his attention. It’s an active sport, and since you can’t really coast on a unicycle like you would on a bike, you always need to be on your toes.

“It’s a great way to get in shape,” he says. “It’s a great core exercise. I went from being way out of shape, and within a year I went from 170 to 145 pounds. I was floating in my old clothes.”

He adds that during his rides he meets tons of locals, including other unicyclists. Once, when riding along with some younger unicyclists, one of them told him that it was great to see a “geezer” riding a unicycle. Peterson took a liking to the word, and he added “uni” to it to form his nickname.

“People do cheer me on all the time,” he says, adding that he’s proud to bring so much exposure to a sport that he loves so much. “I think of myself as an ambassador for the sport—I get letters from around the world,” he says, adding that he even has sponsors now, including Krisholm.com and Twins Bike Shop.

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“I’d discovered something so awesome, and it’s changed my life in so many positive ways,” he says, referring to when he first picked up the sport.

He practices various unicycling disciplines, and one of his favorite activities is to ride off-road on specialized and ruggedized unicycles.

He also has a fun trials setup in his backyard, including a set of stairs and piles of pallets where he can practice hopping from one to the other. He’s tackled other extreme challenges, including successfully riding up Fargo Street near Echo Park. With a nauseating 33% incline, it’s one of LA’s steepest streets. (The Los Angeles Times reported that the fire department and car manufacturers allegedly test their equipment on it.)

“It’s not a circus thing at all,” says Peterson. He adds that unicycling has transformed from a sideshow affair to a legitimate sport. The unicycle’s compact size, relatively low cost and quirky nature have all contributed to its rise in popularity in recent years. And because unicycling requires constant pedaling and balance, it’s also become popular as a form of exercise.

Peterson, who calls himself an extreme unicyclist, plans to keep riding as long as possible. He’s going to keep pushing the limits on testing his unicycling abilities.

“For me, when I go to bed at night I’m thinking about plotting my next day’s ride. When I get on the trail, I’m not thinking about finishing. I’m thinking about enjoying my adventure.” §

“YOU CAN’T COAST ON A UNICYCLE; YOU’RE PEDALING EVERY INCH OF THE WAY. FOR SOME PEOPLE, RIDING 10 MILES IS AN IMPOSSIBLE FEAT.”

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TRAVEL

Welcoming wonder and wellness at Arizona’s soulful desert destination.

WRITTEN BY DARREN ELMS

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B

efore arriving at Sedona, a traveling companion warned me of the “elevated” effect this spiritually-aligned Arizona retreat might have on a person’s current disposition. Arrive joyful and enjoy a rush of similar emotions throughout the trip. Come with some extra baggage, and you could end up perched on a mesa proclaiming, “I’m the king of the world” in nothing more than a bandana.

Taking the short, two-hour drive north from Phoenix and watching a landscape of cactus become engulfed in waves of breathtaking red rock, it would be a shame to embark on Sedona without a soul full of admiration and amazement.

INN THE ELEMENTS Perhaps no other destination within the red rock majesty that frames this region captures the essence of the Sedona experience more than L’Auberge de Sedona. (301 L’Auberge Lane, Sedona, 855-905-5745, lauberge.com) Not to be confused with resorts of a similar moniker in Napa and Del Mar, L’Auberge de Sedona is a privately owned property with features and amenities tailored to its unique location. Situated on Oak Creek beneath towering sycamore trees and surrounded by panoramic red rock views, the energy of the resort’s natural immersion radiates from corner to corner.

Spacious and appropriately appointed accommodations range from Creekside and Spa Cottages to Vista Cottages and Suites with uninterrupted views.

Most rooms come with fireplaces and cedar outdoor showers, and all include sumptuous Italian linens, down bedding, bathrobes and slippers, and nightly turndown service.

Thanks to the culinary talents of Chef Rochelle Daniel, dining at the resort is nothing short of delectable. Seasonally rich and delicious offerings are served throughout the day creekside in a romantic, alfresco setting or in the cozy comfort of your cottage.

Join other guests for complimentary coffee and baked goods after morning yoga or experience the popular duck feeding at the creek. Stargazers will want to follow their dessert with a guided tour of Sedona’s incredible night sky with a local expert.

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And if you’re willing to try something new, a session in “Forest Bathing” should make its way on your itinerary. No water or nudity required; this is a cleansing of the mind and spirit that allows you to breathe in all of Sedona’s natural beauty.

It’s the spa that takes the wellness factor up another welcome notch at L’Auberge. In addition to rejuvenating and refreshing massages, facials and other beneficial treatments, the spa introduced L’Apothocary—a place to experiment with a variety of natural remedies, like lavender, juniper calendula flower and even cardamom, to blend your own signature scrub or bath salt.

ON THE ROCKS While the red rocks of Sedona are lovely to look at, they are even more exciting to explore. From jeep tours to helicopter excursions to custom hikes, there are

multiple ways to uncover the mysterious vortexes hidden in the terrain.

Your first stop should be The Hike House, located on the main drag as you drive up to L’Auberge.

Ground zero for hikers and all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts, they will customize a hike based on your skill level and scenic interest. Plus they have a bunch of fitness gear and healthy snacks like smoothies, trail mixes and one of the best cookies you’ll ever eat.

(431 State Route 179 #B-1, Sedona, 928-282-5820, thehikehouse.com) If you’d rather have someone do the moving for you, you can’t go wrong with a ride with Pink Jeep Tours.

True to the hue, these rose-colored off-roaders will take you all around Sedona’s most scenic places, from Diamondback Gulch to Broken Arrow and even as far as the Grand Canyon. Fasten your seat belts; it’s going to be a bumpy sight. 204 North State Route 89A, Sedona, 800-873-3662, pinkjeeptourssedona.com) §

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SOUTH BAY’S HEALTH PROFESSIONALS Keeping our community in good health wouldn’t be possible without the counsel, care and expertise of the South Bay’s top health professionals.

These men and women dedicate their lives to improving the well-being of others through a variety of specialized practices. From internal and family medicine to podiatry and orthopedics to dentistry, cosmetic surgery and other specialties, these skilled professionals put your health priorities first. In the following profiles, allow us to introduce some of the finest around. We share their backgrounds, their practices, their staffs, their client testimonials and their results. Your next step toward a healthier life may be only pages away.

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RESOURCE GUIDE Sports And Spine Orthopaedics

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Barbarino Surgical Arts, Inc./ Beverly Hills Breast Institute

62

Palos Verdes Plastic Surgery Medical Center

Modern American Dentistry

86

Withers Dental

88

64

Sydon Arroyo, DDS, APC & Richard K. Rounsavelle, DDS, Inc.

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Dr. Kristin Egan

66

Dr. Warren T. Tofukuji

92

Dr. J. Brian Boyd

68

Steven K. Okamoto, DDS, Inc.

94

Beach Cities Vein And Laser Center

70

Dr. Paul’s Immediate Care

96

Revive Wellness Center

72

NVISION Laser Eye Center

98

South Bay Plastic Surgeons

74

Norcross Family Medicine, Inc.

100

Manhattan Beach Plastic Surgery

76

South Bay Hearing & Balance Center

102

Clear Dermatology

78

Kaiser Permanente

104

Palos Verdes Dermatology Associates, Inc./ Palos Verdes Dermatology Surgery Center, Inc.

80

Wolstan & Goldberg Eye Associates

106

Hopkins Dental

82

Adia LLC

108

Summer Orthodontics

84

Peninsula Interventional Pain Management Center

110

UCLA Health

112

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SPORTS AND SPINE ORTHOPAEDICS 23456 Hawthorne Blvd. #200, Torrance | 310-375-8700 2361 Rosecrans Ave., Suite #165, El Segundo | 310-775-2331 sportsandspineortho.com

SERVICES OFFERED: State-of-the-art private surgical center (Torrance), physical therapy and rehabilitation, digital X-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), stem cell treatment

Q&A WHAT EXCITING CHANGES HAVE YOU MADE IN YOUR PRACTICE?

“Dr. Chris Wolf and Dr. Allyson Estess have become new partners within our orthopaedic practice. Through their most recent training, they are performing minimally invasive procedures within their respective specialties that have resulted in a rapid growth of new patients to our practice.

Dr. Wolf’s minimally invasive back surgeries are performed through extremely small incisions as an outpatient, which has resulted in faster recoveries than traditional larger open procedures. Dr. Estess has shown her expertise in minimally invasive hip arthroscopy, which has allowed patients to successfully return to their previous injury activities.”

OFF THE CLOCK WITH DR. WOLF

WHY IS YOUR PHYSICAL THERAPY AND REHABILITATION SO HIGHLY REGARDED?

“Our physical therapy program is called Evolution Sports Medicine. We have six therapists who have a combined 50+ years of experience in providing rehabilitation to the general population as well as college and professional athletes. We utilize advanced manual skills along with modalities such as Kinesio Tape and Class IV laser treatment to help provide the fastest recovery to those with an injury. Our therapists converse with our doctors on a daily basis to ensure that they are up-todate on each individual’s progress. All of our therapists maintain current education and technology skills in order to stay on top of the most current trends associated with rehabilitation. Choosing Evolution Sports Medicine for your rehabilitation needs ensures that you will receive the best care and that you will return back to your normal activities as soon as possible.”

OFF THE CLOCK WITH DR. ESTESS

Dr. Christopher Wolf has always been active and enjoys the outdoors. He is currently training for a third Ironman triathlon that he will participate in with his brother this October in Maryland. He enjoys surfing and traveling. One of his favorite trips was to Mount Everest basecamp in Nepal a few years ago, followed with island-hopping through Thailand and Indonesia.

Dr. Allyson Estess strives to balance her career by maintaining an active lifestyle.

After a successful soccer career with both Stanford University and the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team, she now focuses her athletic energy on competitive long distance running.

Dr. Estess and her husband, both California natives, call the South Bay home and enjoy spending time at the beach with their two young children.

“Our entire staff is committed to providing the highest quality of care.”

OFF THE CLOCK WITH DR. BORDEN Dr. Peter Borden has been involved in sports from an early age. Growing up in Palos Verdes, he excelled in soccer, tennis, baseball, basketball, volleyball and water polo. He played Division III college basketball and water polo. He now enjoys golf, skiing, jogging and weight lifting. On weekends he often can be found on the soccer field and volleyball courts watching his kids play.

When he can get away from his busy schedule, he loves both fresh and saltwater fly-fishing.

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BARBARINO SURGICAL ARTS, INC./BEVERLY HILLS BREAST INSTITUTE SHEILA CHANG BARBARINO HOWARD, MD, FACS JAIME S. SCHWARTZ, MD, FACS NIMA SHEMIRANI, MD, MORRIS SILVER, MD 1601 Pacific Coast Highway, Ste. 150, Hermosa Beach | 310-402-2255 | BarbarinoSurgicalArts.com | BeverlyHillsBreastInstitute.com

SERVICES OFFERED: Facial/full-body cosmetic surgery; cosmetic/reconstructive breast surgery; tickle liposuction with autologous fat transfer; rejuvenation of the eyes, brow and facelifts; rhinoplasty, septoplasty (nasal surgery); endoscopy and colonoscopy

Q&A PLEASE GIVE A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF YOUR PRACTICE.

WHAT TREND IS CHANGING THE COSMETIC FIELD TODAY?

WHAT ARE YOUR AREAS OF SPECIALTY?

WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD FOR YOUR PRACTICE?

RECOMMENDED

SHARED TIP

All women with breast implants should follow up with a board-certified plastic surgeon annually for appropriate checkups.

Monitoring implants is important to ensure there are no problems, such as implant rupture, capsular contracture or aesthetic issues. This recommendation is supported by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Please refer to beverlyhillsbreastinstitute.com for more information.

There are multiple reasons one can have problems breathing due to nasal obstruction. If you are prone to allergies, picking up either Flonase or Nasacort (now over-the-counter) can help relieve your symptoms. If you snore at night or have difficulty breathing daily, using Breathe Right strips (across the lower part of the nose, not over the bones) can help you breathe better by opening the nasal passageway. If you are still having issues, come see us as we specialize in treating nasal obstruction and narrowing of the nasal passageway. We can go over all of your options to help you lead a healthier, well-rested lifestyle. We accept most PPO insurance plans for this specific health issue.

“More than a year ago we opened a 3,900-square-foot, state-of-the-art practice and AAAHC/Medicare-accredited surgery center in the heart of Hermosa Beach. We specialize in full cosmetic and reconstructive surgery.

The Beverly Hills Breast Institute is a patient-first, comprehensive breast surgery center founded by Jaime S. Schwartz MD, FACS, a highly regarded expert in the field of breast surgery.”

“Dr. Barbarino has been trained extensively in full-body and facial cosmetic surgery, but she specializes in oculofacial cosmetic surgery. Dr. Schwartz is a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in aesthetic and restorative breast surgery. Dr. Shemirani is an ear, nose and throat surgeon who specializes in nasal surgery revisions as well as medical and cosmetic nose issues. Dr. Silver is a well-established gastroenterologist who specializes in treating and diagnosing issues of the digestive system—most on the same day at our center.”

“Autologous fat transfer (your own fat). We have more and more patients coming in looking for fat transfer to their buttocks, hands, face and breasts. Implementing our expertise with tickle liposuction (a non-traumatic, virtually no downtime liposuction system with only local anesthesia), we are able to give the results that our patients are seeking in the least invasive way.”

“We hope to be a full-service, one-stop practice that can address all of your cosmetic and medical needs with the highest quality, white-glove service that the South Bay has ever seen. We plan to always remain the forefront of all cosmetic and reconstructive surgery by staying ahead of our fields in publications, FDA trials, teaching and lecturing to our peers, maintaining a trusted relationship and have good standing with our patients and the community, as well as at the national level.”

“It’s exciting to be a part of the new wave of plastic surgeons who know how to perform a more graceful, natural-appearing and refined result.”

BEFORE & AFTER This patient underwent an upper, mid, lower facelift and necklift. In the past, facelifts have made people look wax-like, artificial and pulled. It’s exciting to be a part of the new wave of plastic surgeons who know how to perform a more graceful, natural-appearing and refined result. Surgeries are no longer a huge undertaking with drains, hospital stays and significant downtime.

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PALOS VERDES PLASTIC SURGERY MEDICAL CENTER CHRISTINE A. PETTI, MD, FACS 3400 West Lomita Boulevard, Suite 305, Torrance | 310-539-5888 | dr-petti.com | facebook.com/drpetti SERVICES OFFERED:Face/neck/eyelid/brow lifts; breast augmentation/implant revision/breast surgery;

Smartlipo liposuction body contouring; abdominoplasty; laser skin resurfacing; medical day spa/Botox-fillers/Voluma

Q&A TELL US ABOUT A REWARDING MOMENT DURING YOUR WORK

“When a patient told me she was now medication-free and her life is now on the best roll she has ever experienced—one year following her revisional breast augmentation. Confident, exuding a youthful spirit and purging her past as a battered woman, she smiled and said it was now time to schedule her face and neck lift. She is leaving no part unpreserved and is propelling her life forward. This is one of the most memorable moments in my practice!”

are helpful each year and perhaps more frequently, depending on the changes that occur. My mission for my patients is to preserve their beauty in a natural, balanced and appealing way. Since I practice what I preach, my practice is virtual and veritable.”

WHAT COMMUNITY AWARDS HAVE YOU RECEIVED?

SHARE A GREAT BEAUTY TIP WITH US.

“Best Cosmetic Surgeon in the South Bay and Best Medical Day Spa for Spa Bella. I strive to constantly provide excellent quality work and customer service to my patients. I invest in surrounding myself with star staff. I have a passion for using unique techniques that are effective and cutting edge. I want to offer my patients results and recoveries that are superior and meet the demands of modern health care, as well as realistic and great patient outcomes.”

OFF THE CLOCK WITH DR. PETTI

RECOMMENDED

“Preserve yourself, and the rewards will be endless. Each evening I use Stemology skin care products, my specially formulated Peel & Bleach cream, La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water and the Clarisonic facial cleansing brush. Botox, Voluma, Juvederm, Sculptra and SmartSkin Peel

I love watching professional tennis.

Unfortunately I have no time to play, but I love the one-on-one competition, discipline, momentum swings and absolute will that can drive the athletes to victory. We love to attend the BNP Paribas Indian Wells Tennis Tournament and try to make it a family event each year!

Mother-daughter beauty is so exciting to celebrate! I have treated countless mother-daughter pairs; this is the greatest compliment to me. Being the mother of two lovely daughters, I enjoy being the “mother” for my favorite patients’ daughters. I make certain the daughter feels that I would care for her as if I were not only her plastic surgeon but also a caring mother-like figure. Genetic, mother-daughter beauty is definitely worth preserving! Like a work of art … forever young!

“The desire to have cosmetic surgery—it is not vanity. It is preservation, like preserving an iconic work of art.”

BEFORE & AFTER This lovely, professional woman looks refreshed and has a subtle, natural “pick-me-up” following this office treatment under topical anesthesia (Voluma to the cheeks and Botox to the frown lines, forehead and crowsfeet). Planning treatments, I balance the volume to be certain it is placed in the correct aesthetic position so the face does not look overdone, unappealing or unnatural. I am proud of this result. I hope that potential patients who shy away from Botox/fillers feel more confident about the benefits of these treatments in my hands.

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KRISTIN EGAN KRISTIN EGAN, MD, FACS 2809 Sepulveda Blvd., Manhattan Beach | 310-426-8415 | drkristinegan.com

SERVICES OFFERED: Lazer Lift, cosmetic injectables, laser services, skin care, cosmetic facial surgeries, Botox

Q&A TELL US ABOUT YOUR OCCUPATIONAL BACKGROUND.

“I have won numerous research awards and have published widely, including multiple chapters in the main textbook used to teach facial plastic and reconstructive surgery fellows. I have been at the Manhattan Beach location for five years and was a clinical instructor at UCSF before moving to Southern California.”

WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT YOUR STYLE AND TECHNIQUE?

“As a female surgeon in a largely male-dominated field, I bring the personal experience of aging in today’s society from a woman’s perspective. I actively try out new technologies and products on myself so I can better educate my patients about them. I believe that being a patient myself inspires confidence in my patients.”

PRACTICE SPECIALTY Dr. Egan is dual board-certified in both otolaryngology head and neck surgery and facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. Her practice incorporates her surgical skills with a focus on aesthetics and the desire for a more youthful and natural appearance. She is cognizant that a healthy, active lifestyle predominates in the South Bay and that patients desire subtle changes to their appearance to restore an image of themselves that matches how they feel.

WHAT IS YOUR #1 PIECE OF ADVICE TO THOSE CHOOSING HEALTH CARE AS THEIR CAREER?

“Love what you do! I love seeing patients improve and feel better about themselves. I love operating and performing procedures in the office.

I enjoy each day that I can use my skills and training in helping others.”

WHAT TREND IS CHANGING YOUR SPECIALTY TODAY?

“Patients are increasingly requesting less-invasive procedures with less recovery time and the ability to return to their families and to work quickly.

More patients are turning to the multiple in-office services that can be done without the need for general anesthesia or a long recovery period.

I am currently one of a few physicians in the LA area offering the recently FDA-approved non-invasive laser assisted facelift in my office.”

RECOMMENDED Lazer Lift is a one-time, one-hour, minimally invasive treatment designed to tighten the skin of the face and neck and remove excess fat using SmartLipo technology and no scalpel. This can be performed at the office and does not require general anesthesia. Laser Lift uses the latest technology to take laser energy underneath your skin and stimulate collagen production in the dermis, which leads to improved skin elasticity, thickness and texture.

“Patients desire subtle changes to their appearance to restore an image of themselves that matches how they feel.”

BEFORE & AFTER Dr. Egan is a leading innovator in minimally invasive procedures and is the only surgeon in Southern California to perform the Lazer Lift. Lazer Lift is the only FDA-approved laser liposuction for the face and neck. For those patients who want a minimal recovery time and an in-office procedure without the need for general anesthesia to address their jowls and neck, Lazer Lift is the perfect option.

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J. BRIAN BOYD J. BRIAN BOYD, MD, FRCS, FRCSC, FACS 14650 Aviation Blvd. #210, Manhattan Beach | 310-597-4734 | my-plastic-surgeon.com

SERVICES OFFERED: Body contouring, breast enhancement, non-operative facial rejuvenation (Voluma, Juvederm, Botox), face lift with autologous fat grafting, eyelid lift, brow lift, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck and “Mommy makeover”

Q&A TO WHAT DO YOU ATTRIBUTE YOUR PRACTICE’S GROWTH?

“Two things: by providing a pleasant, comfortable environment, staffed by knowledgeable and compassionate individuals, where patients feel at ease; and by carefully explaining the surgery to the patient and going the extra mile to get the best surgical results possible.”

WHAT TREND IS CHANGING YOUR SPECIALTY TODAY?

immediate reconstruction after mastectomy. In the treatment of skin cancer, prominent scars, unwanted hair and facial rejuvenation I frequently collaborate with dermatologists.”

HOW DO YOU ASSIST YOUR PATIENTS IN NAVIGATING THE HEALTH INSURANCE INDUSTRY?

“By far, the increased use of peels, Botox and fillers and taking care of patients over the long term—where surgery is only one of many modalities.”

“Although pure aesthetic surgery is not covered by insurance, some procedures are—breast reduction and reconstruction, for example. My staff is extremely experienced in dealing with insurance issues, and they will carefully take the patient through the process of obtaining approval.”

DO YOU WORK WITH OTHER HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS?

WHAT’S MOST REWARDING ABOUT YOUR WORK?

“I assiduously employ the services of family doctors and selected medical specialists to ensure my patients’ fitness and prepare them for surgery. During the procedure, they will always be in the safe hands of a board-certified anesthesiologist so I can concentrate on the surgery itself. In breast surgery I work closely with breast oncologists to perform

“It happens that patients sometimes get a far better result than either they or I anticipated. It could be aesthetic improvement, functional return, absence of scarring, an unusually rapid recovery from the surgery itself or a significantly beneficial change in the person’s life. These are the most rewarding things for a plastic surgeon.”

“We provide a pleasant, comfortable environment and go the extra mile to get the best surgical results possible.”

SHARED TIP Plastic surgery can affect both your health and appearance. It is not a team sport. Choose your surgeon individually and wisely. Choose experience.

CAREER MILESTONE Editor (with Neil F. Jones) of a 1,000-page textbook, Operative Microsurgery, published this year by McGraw-Hill.

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BEFORE & AFTER Loose abdominal skin and diastasis (spreading apart) of the rectus muscles following multiple childbirths.

Loose skin was removed at tummy tuck and diastasis repaired, leaving scars concealed by bikini straps.

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BEACH CITIES VEIN AND LASER CENTER MARK RAYMAN, MD 390 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Suite 1030, El Segundo | 310-904-6738 | BeachVeins.com | facebook.com/BeachCitiesVeinCenter

SERVICES OFFERED: Varicose vein treatments, spider vein treatments, leg veins, hand veins, facial veins, chest veins

Q&A WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE POTENTIAL PATIENTS TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

“Over the past two decades, I’ve been fortunate to treat the friends and family of many of my patients. I’ve also treated many doctors, nurses and other health care professionals. I’d like any perspective patient to be assured that I am comfortable taking on the most difficult cases, and that I make it a point to really listen to their concerns, understand their needs and help them get the results that they want.”

WHAT’S MOST REWARDING ABOUT YOUR WORK?

“My greatest rewards come from the satisfaction that my patients have with their results. It might be that the patient was formerly in pain and is now pain-free. Or it might be a cosmetic issue that previously made them self-conscious. Once these issues are resolved, the patients’ lives are truly

PRACTICE SPECIALTY Beach Cities Vein and Laser Center is a state-of-the-art facility that helps patients resolve their vein problems, from the simplest of spider veins to the most complex and disfiguring varicose veins and venous stasis ulcers.

Patients who want the very best results often find themselves here, where advanced ultrasound capabilities (supervised by Dr. Rayman, an expert in venous ultrasound) assure an accurate diagnosis. A complete range of treatments are available to patients, tailored to their particular needs. The ultimate goal: to get each patient to look and feel great so they can wear the clothes they want to wear and do the things they want to do.

transformed. All too often I hear the words, ‘I wish I would have done this a long time ago.”

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND.

“After attending medical school at UCLA, I completed a residency at Cedars Sinai in diagnostic radiology and then returned to UCLA for a fellowship in vascular and interventional radiology. I then joined Kaiser Permanente, where I helped start the Interventional Radiology department, now one of the busiest practices in Southern California. During my 19 years at Kaiser, by placing an emphasis on patient comfort and excellent cosmetic outcomes, I helped thousands of patients resolve venous issues, enabling them to have a healthier, more active life. After seeing so many wonderful results, I decided to continue reaching out and helping as many patients as possible by opening my own private practice in 2013.”

SHARED TIP If you have varicose or spider veins, leg pain or swelling, skin changes or venous ulcers, get them treated by a vein expert. Expertise in vein care is recognized by the board exam of the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine. Only two physicians in the South Bay have this certification, and Dr. Rayman is one of them. Get treated by the best, and you will get the best results.

“In this beautiful office, Dr. Rayman and his friendly staff provide the highest level of care and best results possible to each patient.”

BEFORE & AFTER Varicose veins can be visible bulging, enlarged veins or hidden deep below the skin where only an ultrasound can provide a correct diagnosis. Vein problems may be accompanied by swollen legs, skin changes and venous ulcers. Symptoms may include aching, throbbing or cramping pain. We address these problems through a comfortable, affordable outpatient procedure—often covered by insurance. For patients with cosmetic concerns, Dr. Rayman specializes in hand rejuvenation, which may involve hand vein removal, volumization and/or age spot removal.

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REVIVE WELLNESS CENTER DR. ALLAN WU, CTBS, FACOG, FAACS, FACS & SHONDA CHASE, RN, MSN 22330 Hawthorne Blvd., Suite J, Torrance | 310-375-7599 | revivecenter.com

SERVICES OFFERED: Advanced cosmetic surgery and botched repairs, LipoGems stem cell fat transfer, SmartLipo body and neck sculpting, mid and full face lifts, tummy tucks, breast augmentations, dermal fillers, Botox, laser hair reduction, laser skin reconditioning

Q&A PLEASE GIVE A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF YOUR PRACTICE.

“Revive Wellness Center combines advanced medical healthy aging treatments with the latest holistic approaches to health and beauty.

We provide our patients unprecedented levels of aesthetic medical expertise and technologies to help them achieve their appearance and healthy aging goals.”

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND.

“All of our medical staff members have 10 to 15 years of experience in advanced healthy aging and beauty procedures.”

CAREER MILESTONE Dr. Wu was a pioneer researcher who discovered that fat contained viable stem cells for medical rejuvenation procedures. As a result of his stem cell research, Dr. Wu performed a large number of LipoGems stem-cell clinical fat transfers during the FDA’s clinical study. Dr. Wu’s work helped LipoGems gain FDA approval late in 2014. The LipoGems approval provides access to this revolutionary healthy aging process for the American public. Ms. Chase recently led a research team in a clinical study for the FDA to evaluate approval for the VIVA radio frequency technology for skin rejuvenation and repair. She was an early adopter of using blunt tipped cannulas for safely rejuvenating tear troughs without bruising or downtime.

WHAT TREND IS DEFINING YOUR SPECIALTY TODAY?

“A key to reversing visual aging is adding medical products and energy to patients’ treatment areas. The latest developments in dermal fillers and energy technologies, like radio frequency, help patients become part of the restoration process.”

WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD FOR YOUR PRACTICE?

“Revive Wellness Center is always researching the latest medical technologies to help achieve patients’ health and beauty goals. Revive only adds procedures that slow, or reverse, the results of aging for natural results that make the patient appear well-rested.”

SHARED TIP When evaluating any cosmetic surgery procedure, look for an experienced, board-certified surgeon who often performs the surgery you’re considering. Cosmetic surgery is a quickly changing medical specialty.

For exceptional cosmetic surgery results, make sure the surgeon performs the latest techniques for a natural-looking outcome.

“We provide our patients unprecedented levels of aesthetic medical expertise and technologies.”

PRACTICE SPECIALTY Dr. Wu is a diplomate of the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery and a fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery. He has completed three fellowships, one in general cosmetic surgery and two other fellowships in cellular and molecular biology at UCLA and Bourn Hall, Cambridge, U.K. Ms. Chase has performed aesthetic medical rejuvenation treatments since 2005. She specializes in creating natural results for Revive’s patients with dermal fillers, Botox, laser and energy technologies.

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SOUTH BAY PLASTIC SURGEONS 3440 Lomita Blvd, Suite 100, Torrance | 310-784-0644 | plasticsurgerysource.com

SERVICES OFFERED: Breast surgery including augmentation, reduction, lift and reconstruction; liposuction, tummy tuck, non-invasive body contouring, fillers, Botox and laser resurfacing

Q&A PLEASE GIVE A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF YOUR PRACTICE.

“South Bay Plastic Surgeons is a comprehensive cosmetic practice dedicated to beauty, health and wellness through surgical, non-surgical (Botox and fillers) and non-invasive (chemical peels, facials) treatments.

Our office is one of the largest and longest-standing cosmetic surgery practices in the South Bay. With grace and skill, our goal is to align a state-of-the-art treatment plan with the needs of our patients. As an integrated practice team, we collaborate and partner with our patients to ensure expectations are met and each individual’s health and wellness is top priority. We not only have four skilled cosmetic surgeons; we also have a complete medical spa that specializes in non-surgical and non-invasive aesthetic procedures.”

BEFORE & AFTER This patient is an active 25-year-old. She lost 60 pounds of postpartum weight through diet and exercise after the birth of her second child. However, excess skin in her lower abdomen area remained. She didn’t feel confident wearing clothing that accentuated her tummy area. She elected to undergo an abdominoplasty procedure to give her the contoured abdomen she envisioned when she first began her weight loss.

WHAT TREND IS DEFINING YOUR SPECIALTY TODAY?

“Our patients’ desires are constantly driving our specialty. Years ago patients asked for facelifts; they wanted substantial changes to their appearance. Today our clients are mostly asking for subtle changes—a more youthful or refreshed version of themselves. More and more we have patients asking for non-surgical options such as Botox, fillers and skin care.”

HOW DO YOU GIVE BACK TO YOUR COMMUNITY?

“One of our specialties is breast surgery, both cosmetic (augmentation and lift) and reconstructive (surgery after breast cancer). Through our reconstructive procedures we have met and helped thousands of women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. We host our annual BRA (breast reconstruction awareness) & Spa event every year to raise money for the National Breast Reconstruction Awareness Foundation. In addition we contribute to many other local nonprofits including Sandpipers, Evelyn’s BFF and LA25.”

RECOMMENDED Many patients say they have fat they just can’t seem to get rid of with diet and exercise. Many of these patients prefer to avoid liposuction because of the cost and downtime. That is what inspired us to incorporate CoolSculpting™ into our medical spa. Men and women now have an option to treat these stubborn areas of subcutaneous fat without surgery.

“We’re dedicated to exceeding our patients’ expectations.”

CAREER MILESTONE When Dr. Spenler began his practice more than 25 years ago, he envisioned a collaborative group of plastic surgeons who dedicated their lives to the art of cosmetic surgery. Bringing in our fourth surgeon, Dr. Whitney Burrell, was a milestone toward that vision. Our surgeons spent more than 3,200 hours in the operating room last year and consulted with more than 900 new patients! Our love for our patients and our incredible staff help us work to constantly exceed our patients’ expectations.

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MANHATTAN BEACH PLASTIC SURGERY JAY W. GRANZOW, MD, MPH, FACS, BOARD-CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON 14650 Aviation Blvd., Suite 210, Manhattan Beach | 310-882-6261 | manhattanbeachplasticsurgery.com

SERVICES OFFERED: Rhinoplasty, breast enhancement (augmentation, lift or reduction), Mommy Makeover, body contouring, abdominoplasty, facial rejuvenation (face/neck/eyelid lift), injectables (Voluma, Juvederm and Botox)

Q&A WHAT’S ONE TREND THAT IS CHANGING PLASTIC SURGERY TODAY?

“Nowadays, more professionals are seeking plastic surgery. They don’t want anything heavy-handed, obvious or distracting in a business setting.

For professional women, it’s all about aging gracefully. I can achieve subtle results, often with strategic injections or surgical procedures such as minifacelifts and mini-lipos.”

WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE TO PATIENTS WHO WANT TO RESHAPE THEIR NOSE (RHINOPLASTY)?

“I believe a natural look and better breathing are most important. The result must fit the patient’s face and will be uniquely different for each person. I emphasize these points both in my surgical practice and when teaching rhinoplasty at UCLA and USC.”

WHAT IS A COMMON MISCONCEPTION ABOUT MOMMY MAKEOVERS?

“Many moms think that subtle results are not possible because they often see exaggerated results in LA. Most moms who come to see me want to look better but not “operated on.” For some patients, fat grafting is an option for a more natural breast augmentation.”

PLEASE GIVE A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF YOUR PRACTICE.

“My philosophy has always been to provide patient-centered care. I really spend time getting to know my patients and their concerns. I have compulsive attention to detail, which shows in the office and in surgery. We have a warm and caring staff that treats patients like family. I’m thankful for all of our wonderful patients and friends in the South Bay and for their continuing support over the last 10 years.”

RECOMMENDED “Mommy Makeover” surgery can be very effective in improving the breast and tummy areas after having children. However, an often overlooked first step to address the physical changes that occur after pregnancy is physical therapy for women’s health to bring back the shape and tone of the tummy and other areas. This can help moms avoid the need for a tummy tuck. Physical changes in the breast and tummy that physical therapy can’t fix can be improved with surgery to bring back a more proportionate shape without looking overdone.

“My philosophy has always been to provide patient-centered care.”

OFF THE CLOCK WITH DR. GRANZOW As anyone with young children knows, life has changed a lot since the addition of our son two years ago and our new daughter just months ago. Previous pursuits such as swimming, bodysurfing and volleyball have taken a backseat to family activities such as going to the playground, reading books on ABCs and numbers, and fixing toy cars and trucks.

That said, I wouldn’t change a thing.

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SHARED TIP My rhinoplasty approach comes from years of experience as both a board-certified plastic surgeon and board-certified ENT surgeon.

The goal is for the result to appear so natural that it’s difficult to tell that surgery has been done without before and after photos.

To achieve this, I commonly use the “closed” technique, which leaves no visible scars on the outside of the nose. In addition, I prefer to incorporate improvements in breathing at the same time.

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CLEAR DERMATOLOGY MELISSA CAMOUSE, DO, MIGUEL GUTIERREZ, MD, MALCOLM KE, MD 3475 Torrance Blvd., Suite E, Torrance | 310-540-5272 | clear-dermatology.com

SERVICES OFFERED: Medical and surgical dermatology, skin cancer treatment, cosmetic dermatology: lasers, fillers, neuromodulators and sclerotherapy, adult and pediatric dermatology

Q&A PLEASE GIVE A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF YOUR PRACTICE.

“Although we have all been in practice in various areas of Los Angeles over the past 10 years, we are fairly new as a team to the Torrance community. We have joined forces over the past year in order to offer exceptional comprehensive care in one location and are excited about the growth of our practice. Our office provides full medical, cosmetic and surgical dermatology, including Mohs micrographic surgery, photodynamic therapy and lasers to patients of all ages.”

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE PATIENTS TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

“We are passionate about what we do. We pride ourselves on being experts in diseases of the skin, hair and nails and feel strongly about maintaining the highest level of care for our patients. We ensure this by

MILESTONES: DR. CAMOUSE

having each patient seen by us, board-certified dermatologists and/or a fellowship-trained Mohs micrographic surgeon, each with more than 10 years of experience.”

HOW DO YOU EDUCATE YOUR PATIENTS TO TAKE GOOD CARE OF THEMSELVES?

“When you live in a beautiful climate like Southern California, it’s fairly easy to encourage patients to take advantage of the outdoors to stay active and healthy. We just want to ensure that they do it safely, so educating our patients on sun safety and skin cancer prevention and screening comprises a large part of what we do every day. Every May for skin cancer awareness month, with the support of the American Academy of Dermatology, we host our annual free skin cancer screening for the community.”

MILESTONES: DR. KE

Dr. Camouse received her dermatology training at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, one of the top 10 dermatology programs in the country. In addition, she completed a research fellowship in cutaneous photobiology and published numerous articles on the subject, which has proven to be a valuable asset to practicing dermatology in sunny southern California. Dr. Camouse and her husband, Dr. Ke, are excited to serve the community of the South Bay, where they reside with their three children.

Dr. Ke’s entire practice is surgical dermatology, cosmetics and laser therapy, ranging from Mohs micrographic surgery and facial reconstruction to photodynamic therapy and laser rejuvenation. He was the former director of the Dermatologic Surgery and Laser Center at Case Western Reserve University and speaks nationally on facial reconstruction and aesthetic laser therapy. He currently serves on the editorial board of several dermatology journals and continues to teach Mohs surgery as an assistant professor at UCLA.

“Educating our patients on sun safety and skin cancer prevention and screening comprises a large part of what we do every day.”

MILESTONES: DR. GUTIERREZ Dr. Gutierrez is a Southern California native with exceptional and extensive clinical expertise from America’s most prestigious institutions. He completed his undergraduate and medical school studies at UCLA. He received his dermatology residency training at Harvard Medical School. He is a former assistant clinical professor at UCLA, a diplomate of the American Board of Dermatology and a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology. In 2010 he relocated to the South Bay area.

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PALOS VERDES DERMATOLOGY ASSOCIATES, INC. PALOS VERDES DERMATOLOGY SURGERY CENTER, INC. HOWARD FEIN, MD 550 Deep Valley Drive, Suite 283, Rolling Hills Estates | 310-541-7800 | pvdermatology.com

Q&A TELL US ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND.

“I finished my medical training in 2004 and opened my office in Palos Verdes shortly after. In 2007, I opened a second satellite office in Naples, Long Beach.”

HOW DO YOU GIVE BACK TO YOUR COMMUNITY?

“We actively support several community organizations including the Kiwanis Club, Palos Verdes Education Foundation and multiple school groups.”

TELL US ABOUT THE STAFF AT YOUR PRACTICE.

“We are fortunate to have an outstanding medical staff that is dedicated to providing the highest level of customer service possible. Our staff is deeply committed to their job and our patients. In fact, several of our employees have been with us since the office first opened.”

OFF THE CLOCK WITH DR. FEIN I enjoy spending family time with my two young daughters and beautiful wife. In our free time, we enjoy skiing, healthy cooking and traveling.

I also enjoy volunteer work at Harbor UCLA Medical Center and giving back to the South Bay community.

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE POTENTIAL PATIENTS TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

“We absolutely care about how our patients feel about their skin and our office. It’s not enough to simply prescribe a medication for a particular skin problem. We want our patients to know that we are genuinely interested in their health and wellbeing and are always here to answer their questions.”

WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT YOUR STYLE AND TECHNIQUE?

“I really encourage patients to take an active role in their health care.

Rather than simply telling people what they should or shouldn’t do, I prefer to explain the possible options and the reasons for making each choice. I really think patients benefit most when they can make an informed decision about their health.”

CAREER MILESTONE After practicing for more than a decade in Palos Verdes, at the beginning of this year we moved into brand new, state-of-the art medical and surgical suites located in the Promenade on the Peninsula Mall. Our new office will allow us to continue to offer the highest level of general dermatology skin care along with expanded surgical and cosmetic services.

“We want our patients to know that we are genuinely interested in their health and wellbeing.”

SHARED TIP Many experts have suggested that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. For anyone wishing to improve their skin and general health, I recommend my special “power antioxidant breakfast.” I begin each day with a healthy breakfast of low-fat Greek yogurt with organic blueberries, walnut and cocoa nibs. I also like to start my day with freshly ground coffee and organic cherry juice. All of these ingredients are high in antioxidants, essential fatty acids and powerful compounds called polyphenols that have been shown to improve skin health.

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HOPKINS DENTAL DR. MICHAEL Z. HOPKINS & DR. BARBARA J. KANE 1706 S. Elena Ave., Suite B, Redondo Beach | 310-378-9241 | DocHopkins.com | Facebook.com/DrHopkinsDental

SERVICES OFFERED: Preventative care, including laser periodontal therapy, Invisalign, CEREC (same day, in-office crowns), tooth-colored fillings, custom take-home whitening, implant restorative

Q&A WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE POTENTIAL PATIENTS TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

HOW DO YOU HELP PATIENTS TAKE GOOD CARE OF THEMSELVES?

WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT YOUR STYLE AND TECHNIQUE?

WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD FOR YOUR PRACTICE?

“We are passionate dentists who truly care about delivering the best quality of care to our patients. We really enjoy getting to know all of our patients and are dedicated to providing the highest level of care possible.”

“We really focus on educating our patients about their dental health and how it connects to their overall general health and well-being. We explain things step by step so our patients not only feel at ease but also understand the treatment and care that they are receiving.”

PRACTICE SPECIALTY

“We have a very dedicated hygiene department and work with an extremely talented network of specialists as well, so all of our patients’ dental needs are not only met, but their expectations are exceeded.”

“We are an expanding practice, always welcoming new patients and constantly challenging ourselves to expand the scope of our office! We are continually striving to offer more diverse services to our patients, including Invisalign, as well as incorporating the laser into various procedures that benefit the patient greatly. We have also officially began making beautiful all ceramic anterior crowns in our office in addition to the beautiful posterior crowns we have been doing for years, which eliminates the waiting time for lab crowns.”

CAREER MILESTONE

We educate our patients by showing them exactly what is going on with their individual case. With brand new technology like the Soprolife camera, for example, they are able to see first-hand as I diagnose and we are able to truly have a discussion together about what is the best course of treatment to maintain or improve their smile.

Learning how to design and create beautiful smiles with the aid of Cerec technology! We make beautiful, reliable, all-porcelain crowns for patients in ONE office visit … no need for temporary crowns or return visits to the office! Patient can leave that day with their final restoration, custom-made to match the shade of their teeth.

“We really enjoy getting to know all of our patients and are dedicated to providing the highest level of care possible.”

BEFORE & AFTER Dr. Hopkins placed crowns on the two front teeth (central incisors) and placed composite bondings on the teeth on either side of the centrals (lateral incisors).

We also whitened the patient’s teeth before final restorations were done.

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SUMMER ORTHODONTICS SUMMER L. BLAKE, DDS, MS 451 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Suite D-224, Manhattan Beach | 310-545-0770 | summerorthodontics.com

SERVICES OFFERED: Damon, clear, Incognito (lingual braces), Invisalign, Insignia, accelerated treatment

Q&A 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?”

HOW DO YOU GIVE BACK TO YOUR COMMUNITY?

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.”

“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’S MOST REWARDING ABOUT YOUR WORK?

OFF THE CLOCK WITH DR. SUMMER

SHARED TIP

Spending time with my family is my top priority outside of the office.

The South Bay is an amazing place to raise a family. I also love to travel and experience new places. When I’m in town, I enjoy yoga, Pilates and walking on The Strand.

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.

“Seeing the confidence patients exude from their new smile is really rewarding. However, I also enjoy getting to know each patient throughout their treatment.”

“Seeing the confidence patients exude from their new smile is really rewarding.”

PRACTICE SPECIALTY The staff at Summer Orthodontics is not only highly experienced (the clinical staff averages more than 10 years of experience in orthodontics) but also friendly and outgoing. The staff is a huge part of making treatment a positive (and even fun) experience.

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MODERN AMERICAN DENTISTRY DR. JOEL GOULD 1200 Rosecrans Ave., Unit 107, Manhattan Beach | 310-640-0967 | modernamericandentistry.com

SERVICES OFFERED: Preventative dental care; TMJ & TMD (temporomandibular joint); Invisalign; general treatment, endodontics; crowns, implants, veneers, white fillings; cosmetic dental treatment

Q&A WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO CREATE MODERN AMERICAN DENTISTRY?

HOW DO YOU HELP YOUR TEAM BE THE BEST THEY CAN BE?

“I offer mentorship, by way of a set of time-saving procedures and streamlined protocols that I personally instruct my associate dentists in.

I also provide them with a clear path to practice ownership, by way of my management programs and practice transition experience.”

“When I first moved to Los Angeles in 2001, I worked at several practices on the Westside. I was struck by how inconsistent the general dentistry was; patients were not being well looked after. It was during this time that I started to think about what I could do for a profession I really love.

Dentistry is so personal; the relationship between patient and dentist is really a collaboration. Trust is earned by competency and good interpersonal skills. I wanted to help empower younger dentists, who are bogged down with astronomical student loans, to do what they were trained to do and strongly believed in: practice dentistry.”

OFF THE CLOCK WITH DR. GOULD

WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD FOR YOUR COMPANY?

“I have never been so excited to work in my chosen profession as I am now, striving to develop a global brand that stands for what I believe a modern dental practice should be in 2015. Helping all of our patients achieve the highest level of dental health is what all dentists work toward. I feel like I am contributing to my beloved profession in the best possible way I can.”

CAREER MILESTONE

We work with some great charities such as Safe Passage, a battered women’s shelter—helping women rejoin the work force and be productive members of society by giving them back the confidence of a natural smile. We also support Solace for the Children, a local charity providing pediatric dental care to Afghani children during a once-in-alifetime visit to California.

Dr. Gould and Trish Steele of Safe Passage

“All dentistry is cosmetic.”

PRACTICE SPECIALTY Last year I wanted to tie together my three separate dental practice locations in Manhattan Beach, Santa Monica and Northridge under the name Modern American Dentistry. With five dentists, we provide standardized, comprehensive, preventive dental care to a large geographic area. Patients can expect the same personalized service at any location by any of our team members. I feel that the South Bay has some of the best, most innovative and forward thinking dentists in the country. I feel honored to be based in a location that values health and wellbeing so highly. Bringing that respect for our patients and our preventive focus to other areas of Los Angeles has been amazing.

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This is my 25th year practicing dentistry, a milestone in itself, but I am really excited that my new book, The Perfect Smile, is an international best-seller in prerelease. It is a consumer’s guide to cosmetic dentistry.

I spent the first 10 years after I graduated practicing both in rural Canada and Vancouver, where I had two general and cosmetic practices. I had been writing a column on cosmetic dentistry for Pageantry Magazine that is distributed in 52 countries around the world. This experience inspired me to write a book to share my experience.

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WITHERS DENTAL DR. BRIAN WITHERS 973 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Suite A, Manhattan Beach | 310-546-2002 | WithersDental.com

SERVICES OFFERED: General, implant and cosmetic dentistry for all ages

Q&A TO WHAT DO YOU ATTRIBUTE YOUR PRACTICE’S GROWTH?

“Our practice is growing because we are still doing what we have always done for the past 50 years. Our group is conservative with our diagnoses, we believe in remineralization of teeth rather than jumping to the drill, and we do all of this in an environment where the patient is empowered to make educated decisions for their oral health.”

HOW DO YOU ENCOURAGE YOUR EMPLOYEES TO MAINTAIN THEIR OWN HEALTH?

“We have FUN! We have a team personal trainer, Dwayne Schumate, and local yoga instructor Jamie Horgan does yoga sessions with our staff.

A happy and healthy team is the most important thing in order for your office to have the right vibe when a new patient walks in.”

HOW DO YOU ASSIST YOUR PATIENTS IN NAVIGATING HEALTH INSURANCE?

“Dental insurance is almost exactly the opposite of medical insurance.

Dental ‘insurance’ is really more like a discount card. I tell my patients to either navigate away from dental insurance, or to use the benefits that your work gives you and be prepared to pay a little out-of-pocket if you want to get quality care.”

HOW DO YOU GIVE BACK TO YOUR COMMUNITY?

“I am very excited about being accepted into The LA25, a South Bay organization centered on fundraising and philanthropic ventures to bring the arts to our local schools. Of course I still love the privilege to meet the team and make the mouth guards for Mira Costa’s football program.”

OFF THE CLOCK WITH DR. BRIAN

PRACTICE SPECIALTY

Since I can’t seem to stay up past 10 p.m. anymore, my DJ career has come to a bit of a halt.

DJ DDS still makes a cameo here and there at The Green Yogi to DJ for his favorite instructor— and through that relationship I have found a love for yoga. Yoga has played an integral role in the rehab from my shoulder surgeries. When I’m not holding downward dog, you can usually find me at Two Guns having a cup of coffee, Downtown MB in line for a Paradise Bowl or on my Strand cruiser out for a ride! Oh, and brunch at MB Post—almost every weekend.

We have always been and always will be a family dental practice. I love hearing adult patients talk about how they saw my dad when they were kids. We do great cosmetic work, we place implants, we move teeth with Invisalign. But our specialty? Our specialty is treating your whole family like they are a part of ours.

“Our specialty is treating your whole family like they are a part of ours.”

CAREER MILESTONE We’ve had a lot to celebrate at Withers Dental lately. Dr. James Withers reached the 50-year mark, Dr. Jenna is signing on for more and more days, and the practice is growing in so many different directions! One thing that I am particularly excited to share is the integration of 3-D printing with our implant placement. Our cone beam scans are used to create models that include the nerves, sinus and the planned surgical site; all of this is used to place the implant exactly where we want it.

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SYDON ARROYO, DDS, APC & RICHARD K. ROUNSAVELLE, DDS, INC. SYDON ARROYO & RICHARD K. ROUNSAVELLE 23530 Hawthorne Boulevard, Skypark 1, Suite 250, Torrance | 310-303-7970 | mytorrancedentist.com

SERVICES OFFERED: Complete dental care, esthetic dentistry (whitening, veneers, bonding, porcelain restorations), dental implants, clear braces (Invisalign), preventive dental cleanings, TMJ & snoring appliances

Q&A PLEASE GIVE A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF YOUR PRACTICE.

“We offer comprehensive, esthetic and implant dentistry. Our goal is to make sure that your teeth last your entire life. We will do everything in our power to maintain the health and appearance of your teeth so that you may eat, smile and live stress-free. We strive to keep you comfortable and to be with you during every step of the process.”

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE POTENTIAL PATIENTS TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

“We believe in placing our patients’ needs above all else and then doing what is necessary to exceed your expectations. As your dentist, we have an obligation to treat you in the same way that we would treat our own family. We take pride in educating each patient so they are equipped

with the information necessary to make the best decision for their dental health. We also value the importance of teaching our patients the skills needed to maintain their own oral health each day. We put great emphasis on up-to-date infection control, continuing education and a beautiful facility that you will be happy to share us with your family and friends.”

TO WHAT DO YOU ATTRIBUTE YOUR PRACTICE’S GROWTH?

“We value our patient’s time. We work very hard and have been successful at making sure that we are on time for our appointments so that waiting is minimal to none. Once seated, we take our time to make our patients feel comfortable with their decision for treatment and invest the time during the process to achieve optimal results.”

BEFORE & AFTER

CAREER MILESTONE Celebrating Dr. Rounsavelle’s 45 years of service in the South Bay

Full mouth rehabilitation on implants

“As your dentist, we have an obligation to treat you in the same way that we would treat our own family.”

RECOMMENDED Snoring can be a sign of sleep apnea. People with sleep apnea actually stop breathing up to 400 times a night. This breaks up your sleep cycle and can leave you and your significant other tired during the day. Untreated sleep apnea has been linked to heart attacks, strokes and car accidents. An alcoholic beverage or sleeping pills may make you drowsy but also relaxes the muscles in the back of the throat—making it easier for the airway to become blocked. An anti-snore/sleep apnea appliance is a comfortable and easily transported option to keep your airway open while you sleep.

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WARREN T. TOFUKUJI WARREN T. TOFUKUJI, DDS, APC 22330 Hawthorne Boulevard, Suite 316, Torrance | 310-378-4244, ext. 4 | Tofukujidds.com

SERVICES OFFERED: Decay prevention program (CAMBRA); cosmetic dentistry (tooth colored restorations and teeth whitening); comprehensive oral examinations (oral cancer screening); periodontal disease diagnosis and supportive maintenance

Q&A TELL US ABOUT THE STAFF AT YOUR OFFICE.

HOW DO YOU GIVE BACK TO YOUR COMMUNITY?

OFF THE CLOCK

SHARED TIP

“Cathy is a registered dental assistant with an extended function certificate, and she has been at my side for 23 years. She is bilingual and speaks fluent Japanese. Marcy is a registered dental assistant and has been with me for 10 years. She is bilingual and speaks fluent Spanish.

Teresa is my treatment and appointment administrator and has been working with me for 14 years. She is also bilingual and speaks fluent Tagalog. Yuko is my financial administrator and takes care of your insurance questions. She also speaks Japanese and has been with my office for 12 years. I really believe my friendly staff members are the best group of oral health care enthusiasts in the world.”

PHOTOGRAPHED BY RAFAEL ALLAN ACAMPADO

Dr. Warren (as he is called by his patients and dental team) was born and raised in the South Bay. Most recently he was an assistant freshman/sophomore girls’ basketball coach at Peninsula High School, and he still enjoys playing competitive basketball. Other hobbies include U.S. Masters swimming, fishing, snowboarding and traveling the globe with his wife and two daughters. Community service has always been an interest for Dr. Warren. Each year he participates in the California Dental Association’s CDA Cares program, providing dental services to the underserved, disabled and low-income community of California.

“It is very gratifying knowing that my team and I have been able to provide oral health care services to the community, representing a spectrum of society. Early in my career I participated in the Flying Samaritans. We flew to Mexico and provided oral health care to rural communities. Through our Dental Society we examined children’s teeth at South Bay elementary schools as part of the Annual Dental Health Month program. And more recently we participated in CDA Cares, which is organized dentistry’s effort to reach out to the underserved communities of California. We have been involved with CDA Cares since its inception. My team and I helped treat patients in Modesto (2012), San Jose (2013), Solano (2014), and we plan to help again when it comes to Fresno in 2015.”

I have incorporated an innovative saliva test, which I learned about from my twin brother, Dr. Wayne, a pediatric dentist. The test can detect levels of Streptococcus mutants, the strain of bacteria implicated in causing dental caries (cavities). This test is included in our comprehensive oral examination and is part of our CAMBRA (caries Management by Risk Assessment) program. We can customize your oral hygiene regimen depending on your risk for developing dental caries. I have always believed in the concept of prevention. Today, with scientific research and the knowledge gained from evidence-based studies, we have products available that can help eradicate tooth decay.

“My team is committed to excellence and dedicated to providing our patients with the best opportunity for success in esthetics, function, comfort and overall health.”

BEFORE & AFTER We are a dental practice devoted to restoring and enhancing the natural beauty of your smile. We love to see you happy and smiling following dental treatment. These two photographs show before and after views of one of our patients who was extremely pleased with the new smile after we restored the four front lower incisors.

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STEVEN K. OKAMOTO, DDS, INC. STEVEN K. OKAMOTO, DDS & MICHELLE OKAMOTO, DDS 22330 Hawthorne Boulevard, Suite E, Torrance | 310-373-1120 | okamotodds.com

SERVICES OFFERED: Preventative care (exams, cleanings, X-rays), restorative, esthetic, Invisalign, Zoom, diagnosis and treatment of obstructive sleep apnea

Q&A PLEASE GIVE A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF YOUR PRACTICE.

“The dental practice of Dr. Steven Okamoto is a 2,500-square-foot, state-of-the-art center featuring advanced technology in the areas of restorative, prosthetic and implant dentistry. As part of the facility, Dental Sleep Centre of the South Bay offers treatment of sleep apnea, bruxism and other sleep disorders.”

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND.

“Dr. Steve has been practicing dentistry for 30 years. He is a graduate of the UCLA School of Dentistry, where he also completed a hospital residency and advanced prosthodontics residency. Dr. Steve also practices in Newport Beach. His daughter, Dr. Michelle, is a 2013 graduate of the UCLA School of Dentistry. They both participate in extensive continuing education in dental health.”

TELL US ABOUT YOUR STAFF.

Dr. Steve: “I have been blessed to work with the same individuals for close to 20 years. Having learned and grown together, we have developed a shared belief that optimum dental care results in overall good health.

Knowledge is power, and each team member wants to share their knowledge and empower others by taking their expertise and contagious smiles beyond the dental chairs in this office.”

HOW CAN DENTAL HEALTH IMPACT YOUR OVERALL HEALTH? Dr. Michelle: “Most patients do not realize the close and intimate correlation between oral health and overall systemic health. The presence of oral infection and disease has a direct effect on one’s cardiovascular, pulmonary and many other medical conditions. If I can help educate not only my patients but young children at elementary schools or the underserved both locally and globally, I can hopefully make a small impact.”

OFF THE CLOCK The doctors encourage those they work with to look for opportunities to “make a difference—big or small—in the world.” This philosophy is such a strong component of the practice, there is even a dedicated team member to coordinate all community and global outreach efforts.

Over the years, this aspect of their job has become one of the greatest joys for the doctors and team. Participation in local classrooms, homeless ministries and health fairs are just a few of the ways they have volunteered individually and collectively in the community.

You will find them at CDA Cares, a volunteer dental program through the California Dental Association that provides no-charge cleanings, fillings, treatment of infection and oral health education. In addition, dental supplies and equipment have been delivered to Nepal, Cambodia, Uganda, Rwanda, Israel and Honduras. This global connection was made through patients involved in their churches, temples, universities and the Peace Corps.

While at UCLA, Dr. Michelle participated in a dental clinic in Honduras.

The experience of treating those in rural and impoverished areas who have no access to dental health care was so rewarding, it prompted her and her father, Dr. Steve, to recently become members of Dentists Without Borders.

They are encouraging team members to do the same. Whether through an international organization or a local contact, Dr. Steve and Dr. Michelle— as well as their team—will have many more photos of smiles they helped create, perhaps creating a difference in this world.

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“Make a difference—big or small—in the world.”

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DR. PAUL’S IMMEDIATE CARE PAUL KNITTEL, MD 1812 Artesia Boulevard, Redondo Beach | 310-374-5600 | mydrpaul.com

SERVICES OFFERED: Walk-in medical clinic for pediatric to adult patients; acute & non-acute illnesses and injuries; on-site X-ray, labs, pharmacy and IV hydration; school/sports physicals; vitamin Infusions; B12 injections

Q&A TELL US ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND.

“I am a twice board-certified emergency medicine physician and have 15+ years of experience in Southern California emergency departments.

I attended UC Berkeley for my undergraduate studies; immediately following I attended USC Keck School of Medicine and completed my specialty training in emergency medicine during my residency at the Los Angeles County/USC Medical Center.”

care clinic where we felt confident and comfortable taking our children, parents, family and friends for medical attention. Furthermore it was my goal to bring my emergency medicine skills and expertise into the community setting. My team and I are medically prepared to treat the majority of acute and non-acute illnesses and injuries that occur on a daily basis.”

TELL US ABOUT YOUR STAFF.

“Dr. Paul’s Immediate Care is a NEW, full service, walk-in medical clinic conveniently located to serve all of the South Bay community and open seven days a week. It is the work and collaborative vision of my wife and business partner, Suzanne, and myself. We wanted to build an immediate

“I have compiled a highly competent and compassionate medical team that consists of experienced ER staff. We have experience treating patients of all ages and have on-site X-ray, labs, IV and pharmacy. Our staff is exceptionally kind, caring and an example of true patient advocates.

Additionally my wife, Suzanne, has created a front office environment that is welcoming, helpful and comforting during your time of need.”

OFF THE CLOCK WITH DR. KNITTEL

RECOMMENDED

WHAT IS DR. PAUL’S IMMEDIATE CARE?

I am a California native, and I have thoroughly enjoyed being a local South Bay resident for 12+ years. I met my wife, Suzanne, in Hermosa Beach and we have built our life in the Beach Cities. We are the proud parents of three sons and enjoy spending our limited (but grateful) free time with them and our local friends.

Our patients frequently complement our staff on their level of customer service and appreciate the staff’s genuine concern for their well-being.

Look at what our patients have said about us on Yelp (5-star business), Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

“We wanted to build an immediate care clinic where we felt confident and comfortable taking our children, parents, family and friends for medical attention.”

PRACTICE SPECIALTY As a board-certified ER physician, I 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.

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NVISION LASER EYE CENTER FRANKLIN LUSBY, MD, MEDICAL DIRECTOR AMARPREET BRAR, MD, CATARACT MEDICAL DIRECTOR SUSAN J. SHIN, OD, CLINICAL DIRECTOR 23550 Hawthorne Blvd., Suite #220, Torrance | 310-784-2020 | nvisioncenters.com

SERVICES OFFERED: Refractive eye surgery (LASIK and PRK), cataract surgery (monofocal and multifocal), refractive lens exchange, pterygium, implantable collamer lenses, Intacs, corneal collagen crosslinking

Q&A WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD FOR YOUR PRACTICE?

“There are two developing technologies in our field that hold great promise for the future: 1) Surgical techniques to eliminate reading glasses and 2) corneal collagen crosslinking, a treatment that has the potential to virtually eliminate 80% of the corneal transplants that are currently necessary and can be performed by Dr. Lusby and Dr. Brar.”

TELL US ABOUT THE STAFF AT YOUR PRACTICE.

“Headed up by Dr. Susan Shin, clinical director, and Christy Keffeler, executive director, our staff is caring and knowledgeable and has a great deal of experience in the field. In fact, 75% of our staff have more than 15 years of experience in laser vision correction. As a result, patients are put at ease when they are having surgery. It’s evident when you are around them that they enjoy what they do and have a passion for their work.”

OFF THE CLOCK WITH THE DOCS Both Dr. Lusby and Dr. Brar are active in the community with an emphasis on educating local eye doctors and surgeons as they develop their refractive surgery experience and techniques. At NVISION Torrance, we pride ourselves on our amazing staff, all of whom live and play in the South Bay and often meet past patients in the area. “Almost every time I see a new patient, I discover that I have cared for their spouse, sibling or friend,” says Dr. Lusby. “As a physician, this confidence of referral is the greatest compliment we can receive.”

WHAT’S MOST REWARDING ABOUT YOUR WORK?

“Helping improve patients’ vision and being a part of improving their quality of life is extremely rewarding. Seeing a patient smile at seeing their loved ones after surgery is priceless.”

HOW DO YOU GIVE BACK TO YOUR COMMUNITY?

“We are frequently invited as guest lecturers and often supervise new eye surgeons and provide continuing education for optometrists.”

HOW DO YOU EDUCATE YOUR CLIENTS TO TAKE GOOD CARE OF THEMSELVES?

“We stress annual eye exams to ensure patients don’t neglect their eye care after eye surgery.”

PRACTICE SPECIALTY Dr. Lusby and Dr. Brar specialize in refractive surgery for the elimination of glasses and contact lenses. NVISION is a leader in the laser vision correction procedures LASIK and PRK. Other areas of focus include cataract surgery, utilizing the latest femto-laser techniques and hi-tech lens implants, as well as surgery for pterygium. NVISION works in collaboration with the patient’s eye doctor to ensure the best possible outcome and follow-up. Many eye doctors not only refer their patients, they have also had the surgery at NVISION themselves. That’s what makes NVISION the Eye Doctors’ #1 Choice.

“You won’t find a better blend of experience, attention to detail and compassion.”

CAREER MILESTONE NVISION Torrance has been serving the South Bay for more than 30 years. When Dr. Wendell Wong retired in 2010, Dr. Lusby and Dr. Brar stepped in to ensure the center remained in the South Bay and have continued to provide the latest in technology. In 2011 NVISION Laser Eye Centers became the first provide rin California to offer LASIK eye surgery with the Swiss-engineered Ziemer Femto LDV Crystal LineTM Laser, the highest level of laser vision correction available today. NVISION is also the first provider in California to offer the blade-less, computer-controlled LenSx femto-laser, the most technologically advanced option for cataract patients.

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NORCROSS FAMILY MEDICINE, INC. DR. TIM NORCROSS & DR. GWENNE NORCROSS 65-A Peninsula Center In Rolling Hills Estates | 310-541-8919 | PVmedicine.com | LAflightdoctor.com

SERVICES OFFERED: Concierge medical services, executive physicals and FAA flight physicals

Q&A PLEASE GIVE A DESCRIPTION OF YOUR PRACTICE.

future is genetic testing and advanced screenings to be able to catch disease processes before they start and to prevent catastrophic illness.”

“Our practice is divided into four areas: the concierge medicine program, the Trident executive physical; physicals for the clients of a highly successful non-12-step alcohol treatment program in Rolling Hills Estates; and FAA pilot physicals for local pilots.”

WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT YOUR STYLE AND TECHNIQUE?

WHAT IS YOUR AREA OF SPECIALTY?

“Family medicine. We see all ages and all disease states. We focus on preventative medicine but handle everything from blood pressure management to thyroid disease, aviation medicine and hormone therapy.”

WHAT TREND IS DEFINING YOUR SPECIALTY TODAY?

“Preventative medicine is becoming bigger than it’s ever been. It is not as simple as eating well and exercising; technology and medical advancements have given us so many more tools to keep patients healthy. The

CAREER MILESTONE In 2007 we finally started our own medical office from the bottom up. Having our own private practice was something we both had dreamed of since we were kids. Watching the practice build and grow with patients that feel like family is extremely rewarding.

“We act as a personal advocate for our patients, working with local specialists as well as those in the greater LA area and even out of state when needed. Dr. Tim admits and takes care of our patients when they are admitted to Torrance Memorial Hospital, which is an aspect of medicine that is uncommon today.”

HOW DO YOU GIVE BACK TO YOUR COMMUNITY?

“One of our favorite charities is The Jimmy Miller Foundation, which we continue to support through the annual South Bay Dozen competition at Torrance Beach. Dr. Tim has been the team doctor for the Bishop Montgomery football team for the past six years.”

PRACTICE SPECIALTY Our concierge medical program allows a unique physician-patient relationship.

Patients have longer office visits, an unhurried environment and 24/7 cell phone and email access to their own doctor. This is accomplished by having a limited enrollment of patients. The Trident executive physical is a three-day comprehensive physical that, in addition to an exam by the doctor, involves a cardiac treadmill test, extensive labs, cancer markers, a dietician consult, carotid artery ultrasound and a full-body scan at Diagnostic Wellness Imaging Center at LABiomed. For local pilots we provide FAA pilot physicals in an easy, stress-free environment.

“Patients really feel reassured when their own doctor is involved in their hospital care.”

OFF THE CLOCK WITH THE DOCS Both doctors can usually be found at the beach with their three kids. Dr. Tim was born and raisedi n the South Bay and is typically surfing, prone paddleboarding or playing golf.

Dr. Gwenne loves to be creative in the kitchen. She was born and raised in Wisconsin and likes to combine Midwest comfort cooking with healthy California cuisine.

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SOUTH BAY HEARING & BALANCE CENTER SUNNI MCBRIDE 3734 W. Sepulveda Blvd., Torrance | 310-803-9411 | SouthBayHearing.com

SERVICES OFFERED: Diagnostic hearing evaluations; hearing aid sales and service;

tinnitus relief programs; dizziness and balance evaluations; musician molds; swim molds

Q&A PLEASE GIVE A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF YOUR PRACTICE.

“We are the premier hearing care providers in the South Bay. We combine sophisticated tools, cutting-edge hearing technology and highly educated and experienced doctors of audiology to provide hearing solutions that work. South Bay Hearing has experienced explosive growth in the last seven years, in great part due to our amazing patient care coordinators, six fabulous doctors of audiology and a staff of lab techs who clean and test your hearing instruments while you wait—a winning combination.”

HOW DO YOU GIVE BACK TO YOUR COMMUNITY?

“Our South Bay Hearing Angels Club gathers used hearing instruments that are then donated to the Hear Now Foundation to be used for charity.

Also, $25 from every hearing aid sale is donated to the foundation to fund humanitarian hearing missions.”

HOW DO YOU EDUCATE YOUR CLIENTS TO TAKE GOOD CARE OF THEMSELVES?

“Eyes checked, teeth checked, ears checked every year. These are keys to maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle. Your ears and brain work together as a system. If the information doesn’t get from your ears to your brain, your brain suffers. Stay alert through better hearing.”

WHAT’S MOST REWARDING ABOUT YOUR WORK?

“Many people are reluctant to get help for their hearing. They deny that they have a problem—even though their family is frustrated with their hearing loss. It takes about 90 minutes to get to know them, test their hearing and come up with a solution. When we demonstrate to them what good hearing is like, many people have tears in their eyes.”

PRACTICE SPECIALTY Would you like to try the smallest, most invisible hearing aid in the world? And would you like to not have to change batteries? Do you have trouble putting your hearing aid in your ear?

Would you like to not have to do that? And how would it feel to be able to hear clearly, day and night? Only South Bay Hearing has the answer: the amazing Lyric hearing instrument. Call our office for a complimentary consultation. You can try it in our office BEFORE you buy. See what everyone is talking about. Lyric: better hearing 24-7!

SHARED TIP Hearing care is health care. Hearing loss has now been linked to many common chronic conditions: diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are all linked to hearing loss. Have your hearing tested when you are 50 years of age (or sooner if you are experiencing difficulties) and repeat every two to three years. Don’t be afraid to use amplification if you need it. Don’t miss out on the sounds of life.

“Stay alert through better hearing.”

OFF THE CLOCK WITH DR. MCBRIDE Sunni really enjoys doing training and consulting for Lyric hearing instruments. She has trained audiologists in France, Switzerland, Brazil, England and The Netherlands. She has participated in Starkey Hearing Foundation hearing missions to Mexico, putting hearing instruments on hundreds of people there. When she isn’t thinking about ears, Sunni loves to hike and snow ski. She also loves spending her time visiting 21 grandchildren in four states.

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KAISER PERMANENTE CINDY CHEN-SMITH, DO, ROGER HARTMAN, MD, VIDYA RAMESH, MD, MICHAEL WONG, MD, LISA STEKOL, MD (NOT PICTURED) 400 S. Sepulveda Boulevard, Manhattan Beach | 800-780-1230 | kp.org/southbay

SERVICES OFFERED: Family medicine, internal medicine, obstetrics/gynecology, pediatrics, X-ray, pharmacy, blood draw

Q&A PLEASE GIVE A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF YOUR PRACTICE.

“With our new Manhattan Beach medical offices, we’ve re-imagined the health care experience. We’ve designed a healing environment that feels more like a spa than a traditional medical office. Patients can see their doctor, fill a prescription, get an X-ray and have their blood drawn all in the same location.”

HOW DO YOU WORK WITH OTHER HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS TO CARE FOR YOUR PATIENTS?

“Our health care team is passionate about what we do and dedicated to helping our patients thrive. We are connected to patients and to each other through one of the most advanced electronic health record systems available today, which allows us to provide highly personalized and coordinated care.”

PRACTICE SPECIALTY We are leaders in prevention. We provide routine appointments, preventive screenings, wellness programs and more to help prevent you from getting sick in the first place.

At Kaiser Permanente we bring the convenience of having many of your medical needs met under one roof, so your experience allows you to thrive with seamless, quality care.

WHAT TREND IS CHANGING YOUR SPECIALTY TODAY?

“Technology helps us provide care when and where our patients want it.

At our Manhattan Beach medical offices, we’ll offer video consultations with specialists. When it’s medically appropriate, we can offer video appointments for our patients to see us from the comfort of their own homes. Our patients can securely access their medical records, email their doctors and refill prescriptions from their computers or mobile devices.”

HOW DO YOU EDUCATE YOUR CLIENTS TO TAKE GOOD CARE OF THEMSELVES?

“We focus on prevention and provide the information and tools for our patients to enjoy many healthier tomorrows. We often prescribe exercise to our patients and encourage them to take advantage of Kaiser Permanente’s nutrition and healthy living classes. We role model good health by running, swimming, skiing and surfing.”

SHARED TIP When patients ask, “What can I do to be at my healthiest?” here’s our prescription: Take prevention seriously. Get all of your recommended health screenings. Make sure you and your kids are up to date on all immunizations. We’ll help you keep on top of your screenings and immunizations. Early cancer detection is key. In all the regions we serve, Kaiser Permanente is #1 in screenings for breast cancer and in the top 10th percentile for cervical and colorectal screenings as a program.

Dr. Lisa Stekol

“In November 2015 we’ll open our new Manhattan Beach Medical Offices … we’re excited to serve the people in our community.”

CAREER MILESTONE In November 2015 we’ll open our new Manhattan Beach Medical Offices. Our patients who live in the Beach Cities have been asking for a more convenient location that’s close to where they live and work. Some of us call the Beach Cities home, and we’re equally excited to serve the people in our community. In 2016 we’ll begin offering new specialty services in Manhattan Beach, such as podiatry, orthopedics, allergy, dermatology and general surgery.

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WOLSTAN & GOLDBERG EYE ASSOCIATES BARRY J. WOLSTAN, MD, DAMIEN F. GOLDBERG, MD, T. MAI PHAN, MD, F. JACOB KHOUBIAN, MD, CINDY WILDE, OD 23600 Telo Ave., Suite 100 , Torrance | 310-543-2611 | wolstaneye.com

SERVICES OFFERED: Comprehensive eye exams, cataract surgery, premium lens implants, LASIK/PRK/Visian ICL™, cosmetic surgery (eyelids, Botox®, Latisse®), CLIA-approved FDA clinical studies facility

Q&A WHAT IS YOUR AREA OF SPECIALTY?

“We are proud that we do not have just one area of specialty. When Dr. Wolstan started this practice in 1979, he sought to create a true family vision care center that could be your one-stop shop for eye care. The practice has been built by a keenly picked team of subspecialists—experts in their field—to establish a comprehensive eye care team that treats all eye diseases.”

WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT YOUR STYLE AND TECHNIQUE?

“Our doctors feel it is important to balance a combination of technology and personal care. If there is a new way to perform a task and the safety of that method is proven, we want it available for our patients. But no matter how technical eye care may become, we want our patients to know that their physical and emotional comfort is very important to us.”

WHAT TRENDS ARE DEFINING YOUR SPECIALTY TODAY?

“The first is keeping up with technology that advances at break-neck speed. Our responsibility to our patients is to make sure not only that we have detailed working knowledge of these advancements but are also able to discern which ones are beneficial. The other trend is in making our services more easily accessible for patients who deal with schedule challenges. We have to work smarter, with a special consideration that our patients’ time is as valuable as our own.”

WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD FOR YOUR PRACTICE?

“We are very excited about our continued success with the clinical trials programs. There are some very exciting studies coming up, including trials for glaucoma treatment, dry eye and for one of our previously approved lens implant to study its function within the eye over time.”

“If there is a new device or technique that will make performing treatments more safe and effective, we want it available to our patients!”

RECOMMENDED Wolstan & Goldberg are enthusiastic adopters of the newest proven technology.

If there is a new device or technique that will make performing treatments more safe and effective, we want it available to our patients! We are thrilled to offer cataract surgery performed with the LenSx laser, now available at Torrance Surgery Center—the only location in the South Bay that has it. This device has been used for many years in LASIK surgery and is now adapted for cataract surgery. So far it has proven highly successful in streamlining cataract surgery, greatly reducing the common risks and greatly increasing the quality of visual result.

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OFF THE CLOCK WITH OUR DOCTORS

SHARED TIP

2015 is proving to be an exciting year for our doctors. Dr. Wolstan is planning for his next trip to Namibia with Surgical Eye Expeditions this summer, where he will perform likely more than 300 surgeries and further add to his photography portfolio. Last March Dr. Khoubian and his lovely wife welcomed their first son to their family. Dr. Goldberg and his wife continue their busy schedule with their three boys. Dr. Wilde continues to be a full-time mom to her two boys, running between soccer games and visits to the beach.

This is time of year when more people seem to suffer from eyelid problems, ranging from the classic “twitch” to redness and swelling. We are learning more all the time about treatments for eyelid problems, most commonly a condition called blepharitis. One of the products we are recommending for our patients is Avenova™, which is a lid hygiene spray.

Its gentle formulation makes it comfortable to use daily, and the spraybottle application makes using it easy and quick. Another product that seems to help people is tea tree oil. Its natural ingredient seems to help in treating some types of infection. There are now several pre-packaged eyelid cleansers available over-the-counter that contain tea tree oil.

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ADIA LLC CAROL HAHN, MSN, RN, RYT, CPT 3625 Del Amo Blvd., Suite 390, Torrance | 310-370-0555 | adiacares.com

SERVICES OFFERED: Management of non-medical activities of daily living (ADL); geriatric care assessment and evaluation; geriatric sensitivity and advanced skill training for professional caregivers; Alzheimer’s support group; elder wellness/fitness; hydration, stress, nutrition management

Q&A PLEASE GIVE A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF YOUR PRACTICE.

“Adia provides expert caregivers to assist elders with the activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, feeding, incontinence, medication reminder, meal preparation, grocery shopping, transportation, household projects, physical agility and fall prevention and joyful companionship.

Adia service is available short or long term, 24/7 care, 365 days per year.”

WHY IS CAREGIVING SERVICE IMPORTANT TODAY?

“Because of the demographic shift in aging baby boomers. Our nation is not organized to make aging easy. Additionally, many elders outlive their supports systems, neighborhoods and financial resources.”

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE POTENTIAL CLIENTS TO KNOW?

“At the core, Adia believes our mission is a vow, not a commercial statement. Our vow is to provide superior customer service by caring for elders using the old-fashioned methods of coping in love, compassion and by the Golden Rule.”

PRACTICE SPECIALTY Adia’s specialization in caregiving is caring for elders with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Cancer, Lupus and ALS. Additionally, Adia specializes in making sure that neither side of the aging experience (adult child versus aging parent or caregiver spouse versus aging spouse) has a monopoly on storytelling about their needs and wants. No matter the context of aging, everyone’s version is respected. Adia teaches each the skills of the other generation.

WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT YOUR STYLE AND TECHNIQUE?

“Our unique approach in caregiving through superior customer service begins with the belief that elders who have survived this century have much to teach us about resiliency. When Adia caregivers are enrolling in the elder’s community, she slows down and pays attention to achieve the goal of connection. Connection is what makes life bearable and enjoyable during the most important last years of a relationship.”

HOW DO YOU GIVE BACK TO YOUR COMMUNITY?

“If Adia cannot help elders directly, we seek to help them through nonprofit organizations such as South Bay Village Torrance, Peninsula Seniors, The ALS Association Golden West Chapter as well as Alzheimer’s Association through large financial donations, skill training and access to professional networks with resources.”

RECOMMENDED Adia is a professional concierge caregiver service corporation. Our vow is to make a meaningful and compassionate contribution to older adults by fulfilling their needs and dreams through superior customer service, to have and to hold, from this day forward, in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, until death do us part. Our #1 priority is to bring light, civility, accountability and connection in each encounter.

“Our #1 priority is to bring light, civility, accountability and connection in each encounter.”

SHARED TIP When caring for an older adult, we want every aspect of aging to go well, possibly perfect, but we are human. Imperfection is inevitable. Nobody becomes “perfect” during the aging process. In fact, beauty is in all ages, like a sunset is as beautiful as a sunrise. This understanding is as critical as it is to learn to let the phone ring 20 times, wait at the door for 10 minutes after you ring the bell, accept conversations that are less linear, sometimes with pauses and repetition, key points are made with storytelling, possibly over and over again. As people grow older, time—not bank accounts—becomes the most precious asset in our lives. Accept, be flexible and learn to share with younger generations.

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PENINSULA INTERVENTIONAL PAIN MANAGEMENT CENTER RIPU D. ARORA, MD, MBA BRANDY L. MOORE, RN, BSN, HOLISTIC HEALTH COACH 22910 Crenshaw Blvd. #A, Torrance | 310-530-3595 (Dr. Arora) | 310-343-3784 (Brandy) | arorapainclinic.com

SERVICES OFFERED: Back pain, neck pain, shingles, RSD (Complex Regional Sympathetic Dystrophy), cancer pain,

diabetic & peripheral neuropathy, chronic inflammation, thyroid and gut health, mental/emotional and spiritual healing

Q&A WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE POTENTIAL CLIENTS TO KNOW?

“We both have several years of experience in treating chronic pain successfully using a multi-model and holistic approach. Brandy has both personal and professional experience healing chronic pain holistically.

This experience helps her advocate for her clients with deep compassion and understanding. I am passionate about identifying pain triggering pathology and treat accordingly.”

WHAT TREND IS CHANGING YOUR SPECIALTY TODAY?

“Our trend is to use a holistic approach to pain management. We have used a multi-disciplinary model for many years and now understand that addressing the individual’s dietary and lifestyle habits—along with other holistic approaches such as yoga, meditation and aromatherapy as needed—is extremely beneficial in treating chronic pain. To achieve this,

OFF THE CLOCK WITH DR. ARORA I have lived in the South Bay for the past 25 years and have been practicing pain management for more than two decades. I am very passionate about helping patients with chronic pain using specific targeted therapies—multidisciplinary and holistic approaches. I am married with two grown children. My wife has a Masters of Science degree from USC and works in the clinic as a physician assistant. In our free time, we like to travel, golf, ski, scuba dive and socialize with our friends. I am also a pilot and very much enjoy flying my plane.

we have Brandy, a holistic health coach, Mrs. Sheila Arora, a physican assistant, psychologists and specially trained and compassionate medical assistants on our team.”

HOW DO YOU GIVE BACK TO YOUR COMMUNITY?

Dr. Arora: “I am a member and on the board of directors for Illumination Foundation, a nonprofit organization helping to reduce homelessness in Orange County and LA County. We help provide resources and tools, social and psychological support, and health clinics for the homeless.”

Brandy: “I volunteer at my sons’ school in the garden, teaching the children how to grow food and understanding the value of eating whole foods from the earth.”

OFF THE CLOCK WITH BRANDY I am a registered nurse, certified holistic health coach and certified yoga teacher who specializes in chronic pain and disease.

A California native, I have two loving sons, James and Liam. We love spending time together with our family and friends—mostly at the beach, creating healthy foods, building Lego creations and traveling. On my own, I enjoy beach volleyball, yoga and meditation, and paddle boarding in the ocean.

“We provide a multidisciplinary and holistic approach for those suffering with acute and chronic pain.”

PRACTICE SPECIALTY We would like our clients to know that we understand chronic pain is a very complex problem affecting the person on every level. There is no one right answer for everyone. We provide a multidisciplinary and holistic approach for those suffering with acute and chronic pain, addressing their needs on the physical, social, psychological and spiritual levels. Dr. Arora uses targeted nerve blocks, radiofrequency techniques and cost-effective advanced therapies like spinal cord stimulation. Brandy offers nutritional and lifestyle coaching, specific AromaTouch therapies, yoga and meditation as needed to help our clients decrease the inflammation in their body and manage their stress and pain response.

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UCLA HEALTH 501 Deep Valley Drive, Suite 100, Palos Verdes | 310-303-3953 | uclahealth.org/southbay

SERVICES OFFERED: Family & internal medicine, cardiology, chronic disease management, injury management, pre-operative clearance, women’s health

Q&A PLEASE GIVE A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF YOUR PRACTICE.

“For more than half a century, UCLA Health has provided the best in health care and the latest in medical technology to residents of Southern California and throughout the world. UCLA Health opened its first office in the South Bay in 1999 in Manhattan Beach. New primary care and specialty care offices have recently opened in Torrance, Redondo Beach and Palos Verdes.”

are key to helping patients stay healthy and managing ongoing conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and depression. They also help educate patients about how work, family and change can impact health. I am so proud to be part of the UCLA physician team in the South Bay; we are committed to providing every patient with excellent, integrated care.”

WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT YOUR STYLE AND TECHNIQUE?

Michelle Sangalang, MD, Family Medicine: “The ability to form lifelong relationships with patients is what really crystallized my desire to practice family medicine. It is my privilege to treat multi-generational family members and care for patients throughout their lives. Primary care physicians

Hyunah Poa, MD, Internal Medicine: “I love teaching patients about how to take care of their bodies, minds and health. In particular, it’s rewarding to help patients manage their stress and make changes in their health by changing habits and adopting new ones such as regular exercise, yoga, meditation or support groups. More and more research shows us that there are biochemical and epigenetic benefits to healthy habits and ‘feeling good.’”

RECOMMENDED

SHARED TIP

Well-woman visits and screening exams are key to early disease detection, which can save lives and prevent adverse events. These visits are also a great opportunity to get to know your doctor and have a proactive discussion about your health habits and assess any needed adjustments.

Well-woman visits are especially important if you have increased risk factors for heart disease or other serious illness.

– Hyunah Poa, MD, Internal Medicine

Many people ask, “Do I need a primary care physician if I am healthy?”

The answer is: “Absolutely.” A primary care physician is vital to provide care to support your overall health in every stage of your life. Regular visits to your primary care physician are one of the simplest and most important actions patients can take to help prevent the development or progression of disease. Your primary care physician is your partner for health. At the heart of that relationship is communication and trust.

Don’t wait. Establish that relationship today.

– Amruti Borad, DO, Family Medicine

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE POTENTIAL PATIENTS TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

“Your primary care physician is your partner for health.”

PRACTICE SPECIALTY Physicians at the UCLA Health office in Palos Verdes take care of patients of all ages—from preventative care to the medically complex. Same-day appointments are available to ensure that health care needs are addressed in a timely manner. We aim to forge a lifelong health partnership with our patients to support good health. Several members of the UCLA Health team are Palos Verdes residents and take pride in providing quality and compassionate health care to their community.

– Fernando Thadepalli, MD, Internal Medicine

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CALENDAR

BOOK IT Take on the summer and fall seasons with this active calendar of local events.

JULY

The AVP tour’s fresh new faces will compete against Olympic medalists in the sport’s longest running tournament.

4

4TH OF JULY 5K RUN/WALK 8 to 11 a.m.

Riviera Village, Redondo Beach

Before the notorious Independence Day crowd descends upon the South Bay, treat yourself to a healthy run (or walk) accompanied by panoramic ocean views.

Bring the kiddos for the anticipated “Firecracker Dash” also hosted by local athletic store Village Runner.

16-19

48TH ANNUAL MANHATTAN BEACH OPEN TENNIS TOURNAMENT Thursday (9 a.m.) to Sunday (10 a.m.)

Ages 16 and up will play their hearts out in this single elimination, best two of three sets tournament. Catch all the action at Live Oak Tennis Facility with open division men’s and women’s finals concluding at the Manhattan Country Club.

30-AUG 1

INTERNATIONAL SURF FESTIVAL Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach and Redondo Beach

Kicking off with the LA County Lifeguard Championships on Friday night, this year’s surf fest is sure to be fun for all ages. There will be pier-to-pier races, bodysurfing and even a sand castle design contest!

AUGUST

14-16

AVP MANHATTAN BEACH OPEN Manhattan Beach, south side of pier

Who will be etched into the Volleyball Walk of Fame? Snag some golden sand on the south side of the pier this weekend to find out.

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7TH ANNUAL KIDS EXTREME 9 a.m.

Begg Pool, 1402 N. Peck Avenue, Manhattan Beach

Your little ones will enjoy going over, under and through various muddy obstacles in this fun and challenging course. Ages 5 to 15, including a parents division, are encouraged to participate.

30

CATALINA CLASSIC PADDLEBOARD RACE 6 a.m.

100 Manhattan Beach Boulevard

Celebrating 40 years, the historic 32-mile marathon, which begins at the Isthmus and ends at the Manhattan Beach Pier, attracts paddlers from all over the world and is known as the Granddaddy of all Paddleboard Races.

SEPTEMBER

19

COASTAL CLEANUP DAY 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Protect what you love with Heal The Bay’s “Nothin’ But Sand” monthly coastal cleanups, a great opportunity to get involved in your community and really make a difference.

OCTOBER

3-4

MANHATTAN BEACH 10K & HOMETOWN FAIR 7:30 a.m. race start, followed by activities

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of ascending that final hill on Rosecrans, seeing the refreshing blue ocean in the distance and turning along The Strand for that final stretch toward the finish line.

Don’t miss the year’s most anticipated weekend, complete with games, music, tons of food booths and the infamous wine and beer garden—just in case you’re still feeling parched from your run.

25

SKECHERS PIER TO PIER FRIENDSHIP WALK 8 a.m.

Manhattan Beach Pier

This awe-inspiring event brings together all walks of life for the common purpose of supporting children with special needs and education. The walk is produced by SKECHERS USA and co-produced by The Friendship Circle.

NOVEMBER

14

BEACH CITIES ROLLER DERBY HOME LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP 6 to 8:30 p.m.

Wilson Park, 2400 Jefferson Ave., Torrance The two top teams will go head-to-head for the 2015 League Champ Title. Kids 12 and under are free.

48TH ANNUAL PALOS VERDES HALF MARATHON

With a start and finish line at Pelican Cove, adjacent to the beautiful Terranea Resort in Rancho Palos Verdes, this may be one of the most picturesque races out there. For every rolling hill you run up, remember that you have helped raise funds to provide services and scholarships to area youth. For those feeling less motivated, participate in the 5k community run/walk.

ve Sa he e T T Da

9th Annual

WHITE LIGHT WHITE NIGHT Saturday, July 18th The Top of the Plaza at Continental Park 870 Nash Street El Segundo, CA Musical Guest Coming Soon!

Dedicated to providing free mentoring support programs and services to children of parents, guardians or siblings who have cancer or have succumbed to cancer.

Contact us now for sponsorship opportunities 310.322.3900 Event info: WhiteLightWhiteNight.org

Benefitting

PRIVACY IS THE BEST MEDICINE. The new Lundquist Tower features state-of-the-art comfort with a wide range of services to accommodate and pamper the entire family.

Private rooms limit stress, infection, and time apart. Learn more at TorranceMemorial.org World class care just around the corner.

PRIVATE ROOMS

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guEST STAYOVERS

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ROOM SERVICE

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HOuSEKEEPINg

WO R LD CLASS H OS P I TA L I T Y