Southbay September/October 2020 by Moon Tide Media

THE WOMENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ISSUE

A Place in the Sun ACTOR A.J. COOK FINDS HER LIGHT

SOUTHBAY.GOLDENSTATE.IS

SIX DOLLARS

SEPT/OCT 2020

Welcome back to health

WE ARE SAFER TOGETHER. Thanks to our South Bay community for continuing to do your part and remaining vigilant in wearing a mask when outside your home, maintaining six feet of distance from others and avoiding social gatherings. Your ongoing efforts are making it possible for us to take the next steps back to health and wellness. Getting the care you need when you need it is essential. Timely treatments, testing and physician visits offer the highest level of care and success. Your safety and well-being are our top priority at all times. Call your doctors and follow up on your regular screenings and treatments. Learn more at TorranceMemorial.org

ENHANCING LIFE

along the coast

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for voting us South Bayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

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30 SHELF LIFE 10 years of {pages} a bookstore

40 GOOD FORM Artist Cinthia Joyce

52 STORIES IN MOTION Polynesian dancer Natasha Vega

58 SWEET TALK Baker Jennifer Palmer

60 COOL IDEA Popsicle purveyor Ashley Adamczyk

62 A TASTE FOR CHANGE Diana Heffernan-Schrader

84 ABOVE AND BEYOND Pilot Raegina Steinmetz

88 SHADOW PLAY

100

Scottsdale Modernism

100

OUT IN FRONT Entrepreneur Rochelle Webb

194 LAST WORD Next to Normal

ALSO...

ACROSS THE BOARD

ADRIFT ON THE AMAZON

For a group of South Bay women who surf,

When Alison and Ken Duboff left California for

TERRANEA RESORT

the best healing comes with friendship, love

Peru in early March, they never imagined that

Terranea Proud

and the ocean.

returning to the U.S. would be an adventure of a lifetime.

56 BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

32 DON’T STOP

From managing musical talent to buying and

REAL HORSEPOWER

selling homes, U.K.-born Allison Hales shares

From farrier work to Porsche restoration,

her long but fulfilling road to Manhattan Beach.

Mailani Rachael DeYoung pursues her

IN GOOD HEALTH

passions at a full gallop.

Coastal Anti-Aging Medical Group

A PLACE IN THE SUN

A cast member on the hit CBS show Criminal

IN THE DRIVER’S SEAT

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Minds, Hermosa’s A.J. Cook is also an

Lisa Cady and August Paro are rewriting the

Treasures Interior Design

accomplished dancer and, more recently,

manual on classic Bronco restoration.

Salon 505

112

director. From painfully shy girl to star, wife and mother, A.J. reveals a success story full

104

PROFILES

of humility and grace.

D/MISINFORMATION IN 2020

Women in Business

As the executive director of Stanford’s Cyber

Policy Center, Kelly Born cares deeply about

174

COVER

the governance of digital technologies and

REAL ESTATE

A.J. Cook

their impact on democracy, security and

Spectacular local listings

Photographed by Justin Ruhl

geopolitics. As citizens, tech consumers and

Gold hoop earrings by Martha Calvo, $100, chain bracelet by Mason Irem, $150; The Beehive. Silk kimono by Carolina K, $240; Wright’s.

voters, we should too.

Terranea MORE SUMMER. MORE SAVINGS. MORE...

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CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF BEAUTIFUL, HEALTHY SMILES IN MANHATTAN BEACH Your new smile awaits. Contact us today to schedule your complimentary consultation. 310.545.0770 summerorthodontics.com Summer Blake, DDS, MS

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

PUBLISHER | Amy Tetherow

Darren Elms

Michelle Villas

424-220-6338 | amy@goldenstate.is

COPY EDITOR

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

DIRECTOR OF BRAND PARTNERSHIPS

Laura Watts

Nikki Smith

Erika Carrion 310-897-2424 | erika@goldenstate.is

DEPUTY EDITORS

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Bonnie Graves (Food & Wine),

Siri Berting, Anastasia Blackman,

Kara Mickelson, Tanya Monaghan,

Liz Chalmers, Ken Duboff, Chris Kinman,

Marcie Gutierrez

Jennie Nunn

Kat Monk, Shane Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Donnell, Monica

424-220-6337 | marcie@goldenstate.is

Orozco, Ken Pagliaro, Lindsey Rose,

WRITERS & CONTRIBUTORS

Justin Ruhl, Marcos Zavitsanos

DIRECTOR OF BRAND PARTNERSHIPS

Diane E. Barber, Sara Debevec,

Jen Turquand

Alison Clay-Duboff, Sydney Costley,

424-220-6335 | jen@goldenstate.is

Jennifer Massoni Pardini, Kat Monk, Gail Phinney, Ana Safazada, Yuiko Sugino, Emily Tecklenburg, Rich Thomas

SOUTHBAY IS A DIVISION OF THE GOLDEN STATE COMPANY

MANAGING PARTNERS Charlie Koones

Todd Klawin

MARKETING & OPERATIONS PARTNER/BRAND PUBLISHER | Emily Stewart PARTNER/MANAGING DIRECTOR, MEDIA & ANALYTICS | Warren Schaffer DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL | Charles Simmons DIRECTOR OF FILM & VIDEO | Bryce Lowe-White OPERATIONS DIRECTOR | Allison Jeackjuntra COMMUNITY MANAGER | Natalie Long ACCOUNTING | Janet De La Cruz, Ljay Farris, Margy Way To learn more about us, visit thegoldenstatecompany.com.

No part of this periodical may be reproduced in any form or by any means without prior written consent from The Golden State Company, LLC. Any and all submissions to this or any of The Golden State Company, LLC publications become the property of The Golden State Company, LLC and may be used in any media. We reserve the right to edit. SUBSCRIPTIONS: info@goldenstate.is or 310-376-7800. Subscriptions are $29 per year. TO OUR READERS: Southbay welcomes your feedback. Please send letters to Reader Response Department, Southbay magazine. Please include your name, address and email. Edited letters may be published. 200 N. Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 110, El Segundo, CA 90245 Tel 310-376-7800 | Fax 310-376-0200 | goldenstate.is | southbay.goldenstate.is

With Gratitude A thank you … to the women who showed up in 2020.

I know I wouldn’t have made it through without

The moms who took on the role of at-home teacher,

the support of the women in my life. At work alone,

guiding their children through Common Core math that

I’m surrounded by a team of exceptional colleagues—

might as well be trigonometry. The daughters who kept

women who rallied and pushed on even when tomorrow

it cool despite missing out on prom, graduation parties

offered no guarantees. It’s because of their hard work

and other milestones. The friends who arranged social-

that this issue comes to you today, one of our biggest

distancing happy hours to make months of quarantine

ever. Thanks to the Women in Business who supported

more bearable. The doctors and nurses who provided

us and shared their success stories. And to all the amaz-

exceptional care, and the volunteers who fed them. The

ing women featured on these pages. There’s much to

coworkers who mastered Zoom calls and always got the

celebrate as we head into the final months of the year.

job done. The local shop owners, restaurateurs, servers,

Let’s get there together.

cooks, stylists and other workers who endured closures, furloughs, layoffs and uncertainty. The trainers who took classes to the beach so we could have a place to sweat it out. The protesters and policewomen who united for peace and change. All the women who make a difference in our lives—pandemic or not.

Darren Elms

TANYA MONAGHAN, | Tanya is a fashion stylist, editor and writer. She has 20 years of experience styling for numerous international publications such as InStyle and GQ and served as fashion editor for Glamour Magazine South Africa. After relocating back home to Manhattan Beach with her husband and three children, she is a guest editor of Southbay, runs her personal fashion blog and freelances on several fashion projects. You can follow her on instagram @tanya.monaghan.

JENNIE NUNN | Californiaâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;based freelance writer Jennie is a former editor at magazines including 7x7, California Home+Design and most recently Sunset. A Palos Verdes native, her work has appeared in publications including The San Francisco Chronicle, AFAR, Destination Weddings & Honeymoons, C Magazine, The Houston Chronicle, San Francisco Magazine, Luxe Interiors+Design and The Hollywood Reporter.

MONICA OROZCO | Filled with passion, Monicaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s known for capturing quirky, dark, sexy images, especially those taken in her hometown of Los Angeles. Her work has been shown around the world, including New York, London and Berlin, and has been published online and in numerous magazines including Anthem, Spin, TimeOut London, Interview, Swindle, Whitehot, Los Angeles Times, NBC, KPCC, JPG, ARTINFO and ForYourArt. demonicaphoto.com |

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2020 Good Fit Farrier Mailani Rachael DeYoung thrives in a male-dominated industry. More on page 78.

across the board FOR A GROUP OF SOUTH BAY WOMEN WHO SURF, THE BEST HEALING COMES WITH FRIENDSHIP, LOVE AND THE OCEAN. Written by Tanya Monaghan | Photographed by Ken Pagliaro

“The first thing is the morning sunlight on the sea’s surface, then reflected in your friend’s eyes turned your way to say hello. Then there’s the beginning glide of the board just before you catch your first wave. At the same time, the back of your body feels the warmth of them watching and wanting to applaud even before you stand up. Surf sisters. Of course, we’re all busy at improving and pushing our bodies to do just a little more than we think we can. Because we want to feel that surf dance that’s also a kind of flight. Your whole world slows down, just for a bit. But in that moment, you find it. You’re free. Every go-out is a chance to birth something. Another try, another turn, another dream and, most often, just one more wave. Together, these women of the water, they make me believe I can be more. That I really

friendship and healing in the ocean. Beth is wise, loving and spiritual but also the one to charge any wave with gusto. She’s sometimes out there on days that the waves are so big, no one else is in the water. The rest of the women just watch in awe from The Strand, ensuring she makes it out of the water alive. We are blessed to live in a place with access to miles of wide-open beaches, inviting us to live a healthy lifestyle connected to nature. This group of surfers takes full advantage of this privilege. They are all incredible women in their own right—each quite different, but all sharing a love for surf. Their passion and energy are contagious, and their shared bond in friendship through surfing is palpable. It has become a sisterhood. Though many of the women have surfed for years, the group officially began in 2013. Each day begins with a group text and invitation to morning-surf between 32nd and 35th streets in North Manhattan Beach. Lenie Ramos Trent, one of the original members, is also a well-known yogi and a firecracker. An incredible short- and longboarder, she always keeps things fun and encouraging. “When I started surfing, there were very few women in the water,” she remembers. “Now when I paddle out, you always see bright smiles from the ladies out there, and it’s even a bonus when it’s one of your mermaid sisters. We share the waves. We scream and yell for one another. We are our own support system.” She says the women do so much while in the lineup of men, like greeting the blank stares with smiles or

me out toward the break, because

“good-mornings.” They also talk about their kids, the

tugs me there like a lifeline. The ocean surrounds us all in its embrace, but these women are its eyes. They are my brightest beach treasures. My pearls. My tribe. My family.”

She is one of the original members who found lifelong

am more than I thought. They call they’re already in. Their friendship

Beth Lee, the eldest of a group of women surfers, wrote these beautiful words as a tribute to her “surf sisters.”

errands they need to complete, family stories and the best waves of the day. “All the men listening can’t help but want to be included, be heard, and they soften,” she adds. “There’s really no clear way to describe the cathartic, healing power of being in the ocean, but the ladies who paddle with me know. That’s the common bond we share as women, moms, wives and sisters.”

Beth Lee, Duquesne Di Mauro and Kari Boiler

Lenie Ramos Trent

Duquesne Di Mauro

“TOGETHER, THESE WOMEN OF THE WATER, THEY MAKE ME BELIEVE I CAN BE MORE.”

Duquesne Di Mauro, a little powerhouse, arrives fit and fresh-faced with a warm energy. In the group’s first year, they clocked 173 days in the water, she mentions. “There are so many life lessons in the lineup,” shares Duquesne. “It’s all about just showing up. I find my center out there, and it emulates real life. The waves are always changing, and you have to do your best to learn how to ride what’s in front of you. To have such a warm group of girls—a sisterhood in the water just rooting you on all the time—is truly special. Through my hard times, I don’t know what I would have done without the water and my girls. Surfing is healing.” Diana Branda, known as the auntie to all of their kids, works at Leon Max Inc. and volunteers with A Walk on Water yet still finds time to surf seven days a week. Kari Boiler, a life coach, says surfing is one of her top five gifts that she has given herself. “Surfing is my meditation and where I completely turn down the dial on my loud brain,” she says. “It’s quiet, it’s physical, it’s nature, it’s new every single day and it’s where I connect with friends that inspire me. The encouragement of our crew changed ‘I can’t do that’ to ‘maybe I can.’ I give credit to these women and am so grateful.” Jennifer Nielsen, the most recent addition to the group, describes what the crew means to her. “I have never been a part of something where I feel so uplifted and supported by a group of women—in not only surfing but in my everyday life,” she says. “I always leave the water feeling refreshed and invigorated, since these girls create a

Lenie Ramos Trent

comfortable open platform where lineup soul confessions often end with us adding a couple extra drops of saltwater to the sea. The world is so heavy right now, I can’t help but feel overwhelmed. But with the help of these ladies and the crashing yet calming waves, I am able to let go, giggle and glide into the sunset.” The pandemic-induced closedown of the beaches offered a stark reminder of how incredibly fortunate we are to have access to the ocean and surfing. The women felt its absence deeply. Tragic, stressful, confusing and worrying for all, the women also lost their place to bond and to share new possibilities and perspectives. The last several months have reminded them of the importance of their group and how they could support each other through a difficult time. With every crashing wave comes another and a renewed chance to stay afloat and ride as one. ■

Beth Lee

Shelf Life CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF {PAGES} A BOOKSTORE. Written by Darren Elms | Illustrated by Yuiko Sugino

Patty Gibson and Linda McLoughlin Figel became

the energy of Manhattan Beach and the {pages} com-

friends nearly three decades ago when they started a

munity and are often eager to return.”

book club together. Patty had always wanted to open

Of all the authors she’s met and worked with, Linda

a bookstore, but it wasn’t until 2007 that she believed

says one stands out. “Father Greg Boyle, founder of

it was time to light the fire. Committed to friendship

Homeboy Industries and author of two of our all-time

and a shared love of literature, Patty and Linda

best sellers, Tattoos on the Heart and Barking to the Choir.

decided to pursue the dream together, with Linda’s

He is such a wise, warm and entertaining speaker who

daughters choosing the name for their store: {pages}.

has made a huge difference in our world by advocating

“As you might expect from a couple of admitted bibliophiles embarking on a new adventure, we

for unconditional love and compassion.” Ten years after opening during one recession, the

read everything about the ins and outs of opening a

store faces new challenges with the COVID-19 pan-

bookstore,” shares Linda. “At the time, rent in our

demic. “The economics of operating an independent

hometown of Manhattan Beach—where we wanted to

bookstore are incredibly challenging, even in the best

be—was prohibitive. Though the financials of a book-

of times,” says Linda. “Fortunately, we are part of

selling enterprise in a digital age are always fragile,

a community that finds solace in books and puzzles

we were very clear that we did not want an expensive

and values the worth of local, independent businesses

hobby—the numbers had to work.”

like ours. {pages} is very fortunate to have a team of

After Margot Farris joined them as a third partner,

phenomenal booksellers with our enthusiastic and

the recession hit and rents dropped. By 2010, {pages}

talented general manager, Kristin Rasmussen, at the

was in business.

helm.” Throughout the shutdown, the store continued

As the only independent bookstore in the South Bay, {pages} takes seriously its role of bringing published thought leaders to the community. Over the

to process online orders and provide curbside pickup or free local delivery. When asked if she could choose only one book,

years that list of distinguished guests has included

Linda demurs. “We believe picking books is less about

James McBride, Colum McCann, Louis Zamperini,

picking and more about matching the right book with

Chris Erskine, Ruth Reichl, Gail Honeyman and

its reader. Nothing makes us happier than connecting

many more.

readers with the books they were meant to have. It’s

“It’s a virtuous cycle,” says Linda. “Authors love

our never-ending quest. Ask me again tomorrow.” ■

Don’t Stop FROM MANAGING MUSICAL TALENT TO BUYING AND SELLING HOMES, U.K.-BORN ALLISON HALES SHARES HER LONG BUT FULFILLING ROAD TO MANHATTAN BEACH. Interviewed by Darren Elms | Photographed by Monica Orozco

| Makeup by Ana Safazada

YOU GREW UP IN LONDON AND STARTED YOUR EARLY

after a chance meeting with Jerry Blair, who at the time

CAREER IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY THERE. WHY DID

was Mariah Carey’s manager. Jerry was in a partnership

YOU CHOOSE MUSIC?

with Rich Isaacson, and together the two of them had just

I don’t think I chose music; I think music chose me. My

started an artist management company.

earliest memories are of music. Music was everywhere.

The next eight years were instrumental to me learn-

My parents made sure of that. My dad was White and

ing and understanding all aspects of the music industry,

very British; my mum is Black and hailed from Jamaica.

including getting firsthand access to world-acclaimed

Together their choices in what made them sing and dance

artists and executives within the music industry. One

had a profound impact on my life—whether it was the

thing that really stood out to me was the incredible work

soul and reggae from my mum or the unforgettable tunes

ethic that both Rich and Jerry applied to their craft. I was

of Fleetwood Mac that my dad would play over and over.

so fortunate to have these two men as my mentors.

Tragically, my dad was involved in a bicycle accident

Early on, they discovered Mika (you may know him by

when I was 18, and he didn’t survive. I loved my parents,

his #1 hit “Grace Kelly”), and I became his day-to-day

and this loss shook our family to the core. I miss him

manager—traveling the world with him for over 14 years.

every day, but the one thing that I still hold close to my

He was one of the most talented artists I’ve ever had the

heart is his love for music and what he loved to listen to.

pleasure to work with.

In fact, just last night I was playing one of his albums on

In 2011, I decided to leave Rich and Jerry and make the

his 1983 Linn Sondek beloved record player. When that

leap to become an independent tour manager. I packed up

turntable moves, I can feel the energy and spirit of my

my home in New York and headed for Los Angeles. What

dad. It’s a glorious feeling, and it’s the music that con-

attracted me to L.A., apart from the sunshine, was the op-

nects us and brings him close.

portunity to continue working with Mika as well as developing and building a new, expanding client base with such

WHEN AND WHY DID YOU MAKE THE MOVE TO THE U.S.?

talented artists as Nine Inch Nails, Cassie and Common.

The playlist of my youth without a doubt was focused on artists that emanated from across the pond in the U.S.,

WHAT DREW YOU SPECIFICALLY TO THE SOUTH BAY?

namely artists like Whitney Houston, Sade, Madonna and

Training for triathlons, actually. It took me a while

Mariah Carey.

to find a place to call home; I’d been in America since

After graduating in 2003 from London Guildhall

2003 and never put down roots. Moving to Manhattan

University with a bachelor’s degree in marketing and

Beach two years ago—for the first time since I moved to

communications, my dream became a reality in the fall of

America in 2003, I felt like a part of a community. People

2003. At the age of 23, I landed a job as an artist manager

here were kindhearted and cared about their neighbors.

YOU’RE NOW AT STRAND HILL | CHRISTIE’S

I really began to question if indeed there has been any

INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE. WHY DID YOU

progress on systemic racism, and the events of the past

TRANSITION FROM THE MUSIC INDUSTRY

few months have sharpened my focus.

TO REAL ESTATE? I got to work with some of my and my parents’ music

ONE OF THE WAYS YOU’RE FIGHTING FOR EQUALITY

icons, namely Tommy Mottola, who was instrumental

IS THROUGH POP THE BUBBLE. WHAT WORK ARE YOU

in the careers of so many legendary artists—it still feels

DOING AS AN ORGANIZATION?

surreal. But eventually I craved a slower life. I also found

What began as soccer mums wanting to give kids a voice

new passions in architecture and introducing people to

during the recent BLM protests—and the public outcry and

their dream home. Just a year before I became a real

conversations it sparked—turned into a determination to

estate agent, I found my place and tribe in Manhattan

empower children to be the change within their communi-

Beach, and it inexplicably fulfilled me. I love that now I

ties. Pop the Bubble was launched as a nonprofit 501(c)(3).

help other people discover that feeling.

On June 6, Pop the Bubble on Racism—a protest for kids—brought a moving, insightful and educational event

THE BLACK LIVES MATTER PROTESTS OF LATE SPRING

to a diverse audience. Kids of white, black and brown

INSPIRED A RENEWED CALL FOR CHANGE. HOW DID IT

skin marched together, holding signs calling for racial

IMPACT YOU PERSONALLY?

injustice to end. The kids used their voices to speak to

Racial injustice isn’t new to me. When I moved to the

their own experiences with racism. The community heard

States, I slowly learned about African American history

them, saw them and listened.

because we aren’t taught that in England. My experience

After meeting the founding members, I expressed how

is different, as I’m not African American—I’m British

much I respected their commitment to change through

and Jamaican. Learning about my African American

children and education. I was asked to be on their board

friends’ histories felt necessary, and I wanted to under-

and serve as director of marketing, and I am fully com-

stand their perspective.

mitted to their mission and goals.

Until 2017 I had been working around the clock without

Our newest initiative, “Read It Like You Mean It,” is

much time for self-reflection on my past or my history.

launching this September and aimed at putting more

I am not sure whether this was just a function of youth

multicultural books with teaching programs into teach-

or whether it was the fact that I was singularly focused

ers’ classroom libraries to give kids the chance to read and

on trying to move as quickly as I possibly could in an in-

learn about others who are different from them. We are

dustry that is nonstop. So it was during my time working

asking for donations from the public so they can get these

with Common in 2017 and being exposed to his passion

valuable books into classrooms. Details are on our website.

for racial injustice that I remembered what I had been suppressing and trying to forget for many years. When I was 13 years old, one of my closest friends,

THAT’S INCREDIBLE. AS SOMEONE WHO LOOKS HOPEFULLY TO THE YOUNGER GENERATIONS, WHAT

Stephen Lawrence, was murdered. Our families were incred-

MESSAGE DO YOU HAVE FOR THEM?

ibly close. His father was my sister’s godfather. I’d known

Keep learning. Know that you have power to be the

him all my life. He was like a big brother, and at just 18 he

change that is needed by voting and by wanting to learn

had his whole life ahead of him. Stephen’s murder was the

about things outside your race. For young women of

result of a racial hate crime at the hands of five white men,

color, I just want you to dream big, work hard, stay

all of whom were a similar age as him. It was devastating.

focused and surround yourself with good people. Dreams

Dealing with and confronting this tragic loss for a

do come true. ■

second time was heartbreaking. As a 13-year-old girl, it’s difficult to process. But now, being a woman of color and in my late 30s, this injustice is all the more relevant.

Previous page: Allison wears a hat by Esenshel, esenshel.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

TERRANEA PROUD As Terranea reopens, a long-standing dedication to a healthy workplace culture proves more important than ever. PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE O’DONNELL

ince its opening in 2009, Terranea

open and encouraged. With personal and

Resort has been dedicated to making

professional aspirations on the table, team

family, work-life balance and com-

members deserve an environment that

munity a top priority. By creating a

inspires, motivates, empowers and rewards.

unique workplace culture, leadership encour-

Through cross-training courses, professional

ages team members to build their careers,

memberships and management classes,

provide for their families and pursue their

Terranea provides tools and resources to

dreams while creating a distinctive experience

help employees expand their expertise, learn

for resort guests. In this rewarding environ-

new skills and realize their career goals.

ment, associates enjoy a sense of personal

Since its opening in 2009, the property has

value and feel Terranea Proud.

celebrated more than 3,000 promotions and

Terranea Proud begins with passion. Offering a true Californian atmosphere, Terranea provides guests a genuine yet

transfer opportunities as associates grow into new roles. Terranea also encourages its female leaders

relaxed stay. These experiences are created

to join the resort’s Women In Lodging chap-

by associates who are passionate about the

ter, which supports growth, community and

art of hospitality, which focuses on enriching

advancement within the hospitality industry.

the lives of others through caring, empathetic

“As a champion of opportunities and protec-

and welcoming values. There’s equal pride

tions for women, minorities and all individuals

in delivering an extraordinary guest experi-

for my entire career, I am very proud of what

ence as there is in providing a positive and

my friends and fellow associates have accom-

robust work culture. For its efforts, Terranea

plished—for themselves, for their families and

has been recognized as the “Top Employer

for their futures,” shares Terranea President

in Los Angeles County” and “Best Hospitality

Terri A. Haack.

Company to Work For” from Los Angeles News

The Terranea family is proudly diverse.

Group, and nationally recognized as a Great

Though employees come from different

Place to Work-certified company.

backgrounds, they share a common thread

At Terranea, lines of communication are

of caring for each other and valued guests.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

“AS A CHAMPION OF OPPORTUNITIES AND PROTECTIONS FOR WOMEN, MINORITIES AND ALL INDIVIDUALS FOR MY ENTIRE CAREER, I AM VERY PROUD OF WHAT MY FRIENDS AND FELLOW ASSOCIATES HAVE ACCOMPLISHED—FOR THEMSELVES, FOR THEIR FAMILIES AND FOR THEIR FUTURES.” —TERRI A. HAACK, PRESIDENT

At their core, they remain enthusiastic, ethical,

due to COVID-19. In addition to continuing

respectful and compassionate.

health care benefits, Terranea provided finan-

Aligned with those values is the company’s philosophy of giving. Philanthropic

cial support to full-time, part-time and on-call employees.

investments and charitable efforts are at the

The resort also conducted an associates-

heart of Terranea. As stewards of a beautiful

only sale of groceries from its supplies–fresh

property, the resort provides service to the

produce, fish, poultry, meat, cheese, cof-

local area and protects the natural habitat for

fee, bread, dairy products, spices and dry

future generations.

goods—at below cost to help team members

Some of Terranea’s charitable and non-

meet family needs. All money collected from

profit partnerships include Chefs to End

the sale was deposited into a special fund

Hunger, Midnight Mission, Marine Mammal

to assist employees most in need during the

Care Center Los Angeles, Cancer Support

closure. Produce from the resort’s nearby

Community Redondo Beach, Breast Cancer

farm were also donated to the local Salvation

Research Foundation, Palos Verdes Peninsula

Army food bank to benefit food-insecure

Land Conservancy, Children’s Hospital Los

members of the community.

Angeles, Peninsula Education Foundation,

As Terranea has proudly reopened its

Art To Grow On, Vistas for Children, Walk with

doors and associates return to work, there’s

Sally, American Red Cross Los Angeles, Palos

new promise of a bright future ahead. With

Verdes Peninsula Chamber of Commerce,

industry-wide initiatives in place, Terranea

Habitat for Humanity, St. Vincent Meals on

can once again provide its world-class service

Wheels and Rainbow Services. It continually

while maintaining a commitment to the safety

supports these local organizations through

and well-being of guests as well as the

a variety of programs, events and ongoing

treasured Terranea family.

projects throughout the year. As part of the Terranea Proud mission, the

Terranea Resort

company stepped up and offered valuable

100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes

resources and support to associates during

866-547-3066

the resort’s government-mandated closure

terranea.com

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Good Form SCULPTOR AND PAINTER CINTHIA JOYCE’S PASSION FOR BEAUTY AND ART EXISTS IN EVERY FIBER OF HER BEING. Written by Tanya Monaghan | Photographed by Monica Orozco

Walking up to Cinthia Joyce’s gorgeous Manhattan

She has also done many other private and public

Beach home, a hand-painted Black Lives Matter sign

commissions, including Pacific Gray Whale—a

stands proudly on her lawn. She greets me at the

13-foot-high monument in front of the Point Vicente

front door with a warm smile and sparkling blue eyes.

Interpretive Center in Rancho Palos Verdes.

Stepping into her house, the magic of her art comes

Cinthia’s father’s family arrived in California

to life. Bright and bold walls—many painted by

in the 1700s as pioneers, and her maternal great-

Cinthia—bring life and energy to each room. The en-

grandmother came over from Scotland during the

trance boasts her larger-than-life bronze statue of the

Gold Rush. Her Scotland home was dismantled,

Greek mythological character Atlas, a 2½-year project.

packed up and put on a boat that set sail around

As Cinthia took me through each room, revealing one new work after another, it felt as though we were walking through a museum. In her garage studio, all

Cape Horn. Once on the California coast, it was masterfully reassembled. Many years later, as one of six children, Cinthia

sorts of body forms and statues—both human and

grew up on an acre of land in Malibu. Immersed in

animal—offer a feast for the eyes and a glimpse into

the world of arts and crafts from a young age, she

her creative world.

was particularly captivated by animals—one of her

Cinthia studied under a host of master sculptors and painters throughout her illustrious career. Her

favorite subjects. “There was so much space then that you didn’t

résumé boasts a lifetime’s work of public and private

have to ask your parents [if you could have an

art commissions; invitational, solo and juried exhibi-

animal],” she says nostalgically. “We used to have

tions; and countless awards. She is a sculptor member

Easter egg hunts on Topanga Beach, and we would

of the prestigious California Art Club and the art

be awarded prizes that ranged from baby chicks

director of the Torrance Performing Arts Consortium.

to a goat depending on how many eggs you found

“I DIVE IN WITH THE INTENTION THAT EACH TIME I WORK ON SOMETHING, I WANT IT TO BE NEW, CHALLENGING AND EXCITING. I WANT TO TAKE RISKS.”

amongst all the artichokes growing in the sand dunes. We would even save up our money and buy animals at the dime store, coming home with a honey toad or a baby alligator.” While attending UCLA to study art history, she met her husband, Peter, as he was finishing medical school. Soon after graduation, her natural curiosity and passion for art took her all over Europe, exploring museums, churches and palaces steeped in rich history. When she returned to America, Cinthia went back to UCLA to study interior design. She got married and moved to Manhattan Beach to raise her two children. Cinthia finds beauty in both the weird and the whimsical. To her, everything is art. Even the daily process can be beautifully unconventional. She begins each day with a meditative tea out in a tropical outdoor haven she created in her backyard, nicknamed “the bayou.” “I set up my whole breakfast with antique china on my tea table,” she shares. “I pick myself a bouquet, burn a candle out there and do my spiritual reading. Then I dive in with the intention that each time I work on something, I want it to be new, challenging and exciting. I want to take risks.” With COVID-19 and quarantine changing the way people experience the fine arts for the short term, Cinthia was recently selected to participate in a virtual exhibit, The Garzoni Challenge—Advancing Women Artists at the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy. “This is actually a really spiritual time,” she says. “We have lost the art of living life on a daily basis, but this time has reminded us that it’s important to live in the moment. I hope we don’t lose that.” ■

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a place in the sun SMART, STRONG, GROUNDED AND SOULFUL, A.J. COOK SAYS GRATITUDE IS A PROMINENT THEME IN HER LIFE. KNOWN AS A CAST MEMBER ON THE HIT CBS SHOW CRIMINAL MINDS, THE HERMOSA BEACH RESIDENT IS ALSO AN ACCOMPLISHED DANCER AND, MORE RECENTLY, DIRECTOR. FROM PAINFULLY SHY GIRL TO STAR—ALL WHILE BALANCING THE DEMANDS OF FAMILY, MOTHERHOOD AND THE INDUSTRY— A.J. REVEALS A SUCCESS STORY FULL OF HUMILITY AND GRACE. Written & styled by Tanya Monaghan | Photographed by Justin Ruhl | Makeup & hair by Sydney Costley

A.J. Cook grew up the third of four

also appeared in the cult classics The Virgin Suicides, Higher

children in Oshawa, Canada, a

Ground, Ripper, Out Cold and Final Destination 2. A.J. made the bold decision to study film at college

“blue-collar hockey town” where

in Utah. There, life imitated art and a love story became

acting wasn’t high on the list of

interwoven with her career path. It was in film class

career options. She describes her

that she met her husband, Nathan Andersen. A.J. laughs

younger self as incredibly shy—a

recalling how they met. “It was one of those super cheesy moments where the

quality she still acknowledges

room stands still, our eyes connected, the air got sucked

in herself today. “You might be

out of me,” she says. “It was like I saw his soul, and I

surprised how many actors are shy off-camera,” she shares.

knew him in that instant. I guess that’s what a soul mate is. I had never felt anything like that before.” That feeling proved mutual as Nate went home immediately after that class and told his roommate that

To help A.J. cope with the social paralysis, her mom thoughtfully put her daughter into dance at age 4. “That

teenagers then, they recently celebrated their 19th wed-

really helped shape the person I am today,” she adds.

ding anniversary.

“Dancing brought me out of my shell. I needed that ex-

when she got her first big break, landing a role in Sofia

else’s shoes. I was able to express how I was feeling

Coppola’s debut movie The Virgin Suicides in 2000. Nate

inside through dance.”

would visit her on set in Toronto where they were filming— the whole experience new and exciting for both of them.

tap. She was in the studio every day immediately after

Though the learning curve was steep, she feels fortunate to

school until after 10 p.m. That discipline and work ethic

have been thrown into the film industry suddenly.

remained steady throughout her life. It was just after high school that A.J. discovered acting. A “studio rat” as a kid, her time was filled with endless hours at practice and dance competitions. As the longev-

In fact, A.J. feels that she has been lucky her whole life and guided intuitively throughout. “When you don’t resist life, beautiful things can happen.” After filming The Virgin Suicides, A.J. was offered an-

ity of a dance career began to weigh on her responsible

other role in the television series Higher Ground, based in

young mind, she gave acting a shot. “I have always had

Vancouver. Although there was a thriving film industry

a very active imagination, maybe in part because of my

in Canada, A.J. felt an enormous pressure to move to Los

shyness. It was through acting that my imagination was

Angeles. The fast pace of Hollywood was daunting to the

really able to blossom because it allowed me the secu-

shy, nature-loving, laid-back Canadian. But Nate fully

rity to do the things I was thinking about and ‘be’ what

supported the dream, and they decided to make the move

I admired in others but was not brave enough to do as

to L.A. together.

myself. Acting is my therapy.” A.J. acquired a massive fan base from a career of great

A.J. had completed just one winter semester at school

pressive outlet of movement and stepping into someone

A.J. studied various styles including ballet, jazz and

he had just met the girl he was going to marry. Still

They got in the car and drove down the Pacific coast in search of a place to call home. While driving on Catalina

roles, including 15 years as Supervisory Special Agent

Avenue in Redondo Beach, they came across a man ham-

Jennifer “JJ” Jareau on the hit CBS crime drama Criminal

mering a sign for a condo a half-block from the beach,

Minds, which recently wrapped up its final season. She

which had just become available. They stopped, chatted

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with the man and ended up moving in. They haven’t left

lost in the idea of the balance. I thought I had to be doing

the South Bay since.

everything perfectly at the same time. What I found is,

Within a year of moving to Los Angeles, A.J. landed a

for me, this is the exact opposite of what balance is. The

lead role on Criminal Minds. “I feel like I kept winning the

only way I find I can do it well is to be where my feet are.

lottery. The cast has become my family, and they have

To be present, accept where I am and give 100% of me in

all helped shape me as a human being,” she says. “I was

that moment. As soon as I figured that out, it became a

a child when I started that show; I was very young and

lot easier.”

naive. It was such a beautiful experience to go to work

Since Criminal Minds ended, it’s been an interesting

every day and work side by side with not just the cast but

transition—one that has also coincided with COVID-19

the crew as well. Everyone wanted to be there and cared

and quarantine. The whole family has had to adjust

about their work and about one another. I couldn’t have

but made the most of the uncertainty by spending two

asked for a better family, and I consider it a true blessing

months of quarantine in Utah at their second home—a

I got to do that for as long as I did.”

stunning residence on 45 acres of land surrounded by

Much had happened in A.J.’s life since she began

space and sky. Complete with a 40-foot climbing wall

work on the show, including becoming a mother to two

built into their living room, this home is a haven … a

beautiful boys, Mekhai, 11, and Phoenix, 4. The writers

place to truly get away and disconnect.

even adapted the scripts to reflect her real life, with her

But she considers the South Bay her home and always

character JJ having two kids on the show just as A.J.

looks forward to coming back. “Living at the beach has

did. In fact, Mekhai played her son Henry on Criminal

been a lifesaver for me and how I function, especially

Minds. A.J. attributes this attention to detail as part of the

while working and after being around intense energy all

show’s success.

day,” she shares. “I love it here. We got very lucky with

“The show has a lot of heart and developed our charac-

having great neighbors, and it’s been so wonderful for our

ters to reflect reality,” she says. “The characters weren’t

boys. These are uncertain times, but it’s been beautiful to

robot-like heroes saving the day. They were flawed, they

see how our community has rallied together. There is a

were suffering and they were each on their own journey.

true sense of community in the South Bay that is unique,

I think the audience really connected with that. It was

and that bond will only be fortified as we continue to come

devastatingly hard to say goodbye.”

together during these unprecedented times.”

A.J. also finds the time to give back in her role as board

This time has allowed A.J. to take a breather and enjoy

member of The Innocent Lives Foundation. “We unmask

the South Bay life more fully on a day-to-day basis. “I

anonymous online child predators to help bring them to

am slowly trying to create my space here and letting

justice,” she says of the cause. “Our ‘white hat’ hackers

myself just be without having that need to work,” she

work tirelessly to hunt down these predators. We also of-

says. “It’s taken a little time, but I feel like I have finally

fer important information for parents to help ensure their

settled into it.”

children are safe and protected online.” A.J. admits that juggling family and motherhood, as

The pause has also allowed her to be more supportive of her husband’s successful fashion brand, Walter

well as her charity work and the crazy hours on set, took

Sky. “It’s been so rewarding seeing the process from the

some time to master. And finding that elusive balance

beginning—to see him design and to see it come to life in

still proves challenging.

front of you, and now see people actually walking around

“We are all trying to do too much today,” she says. “There is so much flying at us at all times, and I get a bit

in it. I am so proud of him.” With discipline and work ethic never far away, A.J.

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is already moving forward with the next chapter of her life: directing. She was given the opportunity to direct a

“WHEN YOU

Criminal Minds episode and fell in love with process. “I

DON’T RESIST

there was just something about directing that felt like

LIFE, BEAUTIFUL THINGS HAPPEN.”

love acting and it will always be a huge part of me, but home,” she says. Soon A.J. will direct a feature called Contain, but much to the relief of her many fans, she won’t be retiring from acting just yet. “I want to do it all. I need to create, I need to express myself, and the best way for me to do that is through acting, writing and directing. I’m just so grateful for everything I’ve been given.” ■

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Stories in Motion THROUGH POLYNESIAN DANCE, NATASHA VEGA WEAVES A BEAUTIFUL NARRATIVE. Written & photographed by Kat Monk

While young girls often lean toward ballet and

a week for dance events and cultural exchanges

tap lessons, Natasha Vega and her sister, Olivia,

across the country.

stepped outside the box and took up Polynesian

when she has a full plate: “Natasha is studious in

mom registered them to take Nualani’s Polynesian

her work and doesn’t speak much in class, but that

dance at the Hermosa Beach Playhouse. She chose

is because when she dances, she shines.”

the class not as a heritage exploration (they are

Ori Tahiti, a Polynesian dance, requires the

German and Puerto Rican), but because the age

dancer to understand the meaning behind each

range allowed the sisters to take class together at

motion and string together the “lei” that will be a

the same time.

complete routine. Their movements mimic nature

Their teacher, Rose Laolagi, taught them hula,

has a story behind it. Luau dancing, a Polynesian

originated from the islands within the Polynesian

dance created in Hawaii, is associated with slower

triangle, with each island enjoying its own dance

arm and hip movements. Tahitian dancing is as-

style and variations.

sociated with faster movements. “Ori Tahiti dances should be low in stance

in 2014, she started college at California State

and organic in delivery,” adds Tiana. “Natasha

University Long Beach. She decided to try out for the

is trained in these concepts and commits to our

Ori Tahiti advanced team at the world-renowned

cultural concepts when dancing. We fully commit

dance studio Nonosina. Tiana Liufau, the director

to each dance, as our bodies and facial expressions

and also Rose’s cousin, worked as a dance coach on

retell stories from the ancient ones and we are able

Dancing with the Stars. Natasha made the cut.

to write our own.”

In addition to competing as an Ori Tahiti dancer,

Costumes for Ori Tahiti are unique and elabo-

Natasha teaches second grade in the Los Angeles

rate, reflecting the style of dance performed. “We

Unified School District and is a sprint coach for

try to keep the costumes as original as they used

the Mira Costa High School track team. Despite

to be back in the day,” says Tiana.

her busy schedule, Natasha trains a couple times

and the origin of the first dancers, and every dance

Samoan, Maori and Tahitian. Most of these dances

After Natasha graduated Mira Costa High School

Tiana notes Natasha’s commitment to dance even

dance. When Natasha was 8 and Olivia was 5, their

Costumes are typically a pareo—two pieces of

“WE FULLY COMMIT TO EACH DANCE, AS OUR BODIES AND FACIAL EXPRESSIONS RETELL STORIES FROM THE ANCIENT ONES AND WE ARE ABLE TO WRITE OUR OWN.”

fabric tied together (similar to a sarong) with a moré hip belt made of hau bark. There is also a head adornment covered in tapa (a cloth made from the inner bark of trees), shells and raufara (braided leaves from the hala tree). “My favorite part of dance is being able to perform and having it affect everyone in the audience in a different way,” explains Natasha. “I love seeing the reaction of the audience. Sometimes people are in tears—they get so much joy from watching us perform.” Recently Natasha’s group traveled to Tahiti to perform on the prestigious stage in To’ata Square in Papeete, normally reserved for groups that are from the island. “We did our best to make it interesting to the people in Tahiti while trying to keep to the original style,” she says. “The people were very welcoming. It was a very big honor and a humbling opportunity.” ■

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B U S I N E S S S P OT L I G H T

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THE SILVER LINING Salon owners Therese De Vos and Kaci Braunecker accentuate the positive during the pandemic shutdown. WRITTEN BY LAURA L. WATTS | PHOTOGRAPHS & JEWELRY BY LINDSEY ROSE

S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G S E C T I O N

B U S I N E S S S P OT L I G H T

t’s been an unprecedented challenge for

other year we can remember to date,” says

all of us. Dealing with this pandemic has

Therese. “This pandemic has completely

tested many relationships, and only the

turned our worlds upside down, and no one

strongest survive. A perfect example of

has gone unaffected.”

this resilience is the business partnership of

While they are unable to function normally

Therese De Vos and Kaci Braunecker, owners

as a beauty shop, 505 Salon is pivoting and

of 505 Salon in Hermosa Beach.

trying to make the best of the situation. Their

It was their friendship and like-minded

online store now carries hair accessories such

career goals that led Therese and Kaci to

as clips, barrettes and headbands; safe,

open 505 Salon in 2018. They gathered a

fashionable face masks; and a variety of

team of expert stylists, found a terrific location

Oribe hair-care products.

in the heart of Hermosa Beach and opened

The positives that have come from the

their doors to great acclaim. Clients flocked to

pandemic are not lost on Therese and Kaci. “A

the full-service hair salon to enjoy cuts, color,

silver lining is that during a shake-up and shift

extensions and Brazilian blowouts.

like we’ve experienced recently, you inevitably

And then COVID-19 hit, and 505 Salon

grow, learn and rethink things,” Kaci says. “You

closed its doors in March, reopened in

realize what is important and what isn’t. We

May and closed again in July as California’s

can say without a doubt that we have gotten

coronavirus cases soared. Through it all,

so much closer and stronger as a team.”

what has remained are the strong bonds of

The two value the extra time they’ve been

friendship and loyalty with Therese, Kaci and

able to spend with their families and children

their clients.

during the shutdown. While it’s tough to find

“Kaci and I have certainly had our busi-

activities and fun locations that are open,

ness relationship tried and tested,” shares

some places have been a respite for them,

Therese, “and we are stronger together than

like the South Coast Botanic Garden. “That’s

ever before.”

how we find peace amongst all the chaos,”

Kaci agrees. “At a time like this, we are so grateful to have each other as business

“WOMEN SUPPORTING OTHER WOMEN IN BUSINESS IS KEY.”

shares Kaci. They also appreciate their Hermosa Beach

partners and to have such wonderful, sup-

community, where area businesses are mak-

portive clients. We are not alone in this, and

ing an extra effort to lift each other up during

that helps.”

this time. “We love being in Hermosa and sup-

The salon industry has suffered an enor-

porting our local shops here,” says Therese.

mous blow, especially in California. 505 Salon

“Frequenting local organizations—especially

made great strides to offer their services while

businesses led by women—is more important

everyone else who crosses paths with Therese

maintaining safety guidelines as mandated

now more than ever. Women supporting other

and Kaci will see that hard work pays off,

by the CDC, the state board of cosmetology

women in business is key.”

dreams can come true, and strong women

and the Los Angeles County Department of

As female business owners, Kaci and

Public Health. In fact, they even had plexiglass

Therese find it rewarding to be role models

dividers installed between each hair station

for other women. “We both have daughters

in June.

at home, and we love to show them, ‘Look

can survive anything and become even stronger through the process. 505 SALON

But the next month, California required

what mommy can do. We kick butts!’” Therese

THERESE DE VOS & KACI BRAUNECKER

hair salons to move outdoors—making most

laughs. “We want our girls to feel they can do

505 PIER AVENUE

of the services offered by 505 Salon difficult

anything they put their minds to when they

HERMOSA BEACH

or impossible to provide. “I think we all agree

grow up.”

310-698-7808

this year has had more challenges than any

With 505 Salon, their daughters and

505SALONHB.COM |

Sweet Talk STARTING FROM SCRATCH NEARLY TWO DECADES AGO, A TORRANCE NATIVE NOW BRINGS FRESHLY BAKED COOKIES TO THE MASSES—CREATING A SMALL ENTERPRISE WITH A LOYAL AND RAPIDLY EXPANDING FOLLOWING. Written by Jennie Nunn

Nineteen years ago, Jennifer Palmer—founder of Redondo

section. My thought process was, if you make the cookies

Beach–based Isabella’s Cookie Company—walked into a

weekly and you deliver them weekly—almost like how

local grocery store with a freshly hatched business plan

they deliver fresh bread—then someone could appreciate

and a batch of large, 1/3-pound cookies. “I just told the

the fresh cookie experience at a retail grocery store level.”

owner [Andre Klaser] at Granny’s Grocery in Hermosa

Jennifer, who named the company after her inspira-

Beach to take them and place them on the counter and

tion and late close family friend Isabella, didn’t want to

see if they will sell,” recalls the Torrance native. “He saw

just make ordinary cookies. “I wanted to make them fun

them, liked them, but wasn’t sure if they would sell in his

and funky,” she says. “I wanted to set myself apart and

store for $3. He thought the retail price was too high. He

come up with unique flavors. Anyone can make a plain

wanted to know what kitchen I was working out of and if

chocolate chip cookie.”

my packaging was legitimate.” For the next two years, the Arizona State University

Her cookies range from the Peanut Butter Bomb, a peanut butter cookie loaded with peanut butter chips

graduate who previously worked as a project coordina-

and peanut butter candies, and The Muffy, her take on

tor for a commercial contractor studied everything from

a blueberry muffin with white chocolate chips, dried

FDA-approved food labeling requirements to packaging

blueberries and milk chocolate-covered blueberries. “I

designs. She began fine-tuning her cookies in a cafeteria

was walking through Costco and saw a 5-pound bag

kitchen near LAX during the kitchen’s off-hours from

of chocolate-covered blueberries and was intrigued,”

4 p.m. to 4 a.m.

explains Jennifer. “I bought them, made a test batch and

After all the hard work, she went back to Granny’s Grocery with a dozen cookies and a simple wish list for the owner: “I told him, ‘See if they sell in a week, and

the kitchen smelled like I was baking blueberry muffins. It’s one of my most popular cookies.” Today Jennifer’s daily itinerary consists of fielding

if they don’t, I’ll take them back and you won’t owe me

phone calls and orders from distributors; problem-

any money.’” They sold out in 45 minutes.

solving and negotiating deals; sourcing wholesome

From there, it was a ripple effect with her cookies

ingredients; tracking down new business leads (with

landing in Boccato’s Groceries in Hermosa Beach followed

dreams of national distribution); and making time for

by Manhattan Beach Grocery. The cookies are now dis-

her two Labrador retrievers, Lulu and Leroy. She’s also

tributed in more than 150 stores and counting, including

busy working to expand the flavor selection at individual

Whole Foods and Bristol Farms. With nine employees and

stores for store-to-store consistency.

a commercial kitchen space she’s occupied since 2003,

“It’s a fun and creative outlet for me,” says Jennifer.

Jennifer sells her cookies in packages featuring original

“I never thought this was going to happen, and I

illustrations she draws by hand.

thought it might just be something I did as a side hobby.

“When I first started, I was surprised that there were

But I kept pushing, and it paid off. I’m super happy and

no fresh-baked cookies at the store besides what an in-

proud of what I’ve accomplished, and I’m happy where I

store bakery would make,” says Jennifer. “So I wanted to

am. I’m curious to see where I go.” ■

bring the fresh-baked cookies to the market in the bakery

Cool Idea MEET THE HERMOSA ENTREPRENEUR WITH A CHILL CONCEPT. Written by Darren Elms | Photographed by Shane O’Donnell

A trip to a grocery store on a remote island proved to be a fortuitous adventure for Ashley Adamczyk. The

fresh additions from top to bottom. Beach Town Pops come in two categories: boozy

Hermosa Beach resident was abroad working on the

and non-boozy. Cocktail-inspired options include

reality television show Survivor and needed to grab

Mojito (fresh mint, lime juice and Bacardi rum),

some frozen pops for the crew. Coming up empty at

French 75 (Brut Champagne, Bombay Sapphire gin

the store, she decided to make her own—breaking out

and lemon juice) and Peach Bourbon (sautéed peaches

some ice cube trays and doing what she could with

and Jim Beam).

what was available to her on the island. Her homemade treats were an instant hit. Back home in the South Bay, she started research-

Kids and nondrinkers can sample Russian Pear, Lemon Cheesecake with a Pomegranate Reduction and Dark Belgium Chocolate Sea Salt. Ashley also

ing recipes and experimenting with flavors. “My

recently introduced gourmet ice cream flavors like

sister suggested I start my own business,” she says

Olive Oil with Pepper and Sesame with Orange-

of Beach Town Pops. “I started selling the popsicles

Blossom Caramel.

at the farmers market, then got into mom-and-pop delis around town.” Ashley has now branched out to catering and has

For outdoor events, reserve her popsicle cart complete with a uniformed server. When weddings get back on schedule and the bride and groom make

even gone back to her roots, supplying the frozen

their entrance at the reception, you just might be

treats for film crews. Not one to skimp on ingredi-

raising a Champagne-and-strawberry-on-a-stick

ents, she insists on quality cold-pressed juices and

frozen pop in their honor. ■

“I STARTED SELLING THE POPSICLES AT THE FARMERS MARKET, THEN GOT INTO MOM-AND-POP DELIS AROUND TOWN.”

A Taste for Change PALOS VERDES RESIDENT AND GARDENING ENTHUSIAST DIANA HEFFERNAN-SCHRADER GETS BACK TO THE BASICS. Written by Gail Phinney | Photographed by Monica Orozco

If you live on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, chances

both parties. “It is absolutely 100% unique to that one

tireless advocate, supporter and volunteer for local

individual’s garden process,” she says. “It takes them

philanthropy, land conservation and the arts, she is

from start to finish. I’ve married the layers of what I do

most widely recognized as the founder and executive

for myself and my family in my garden and kitchen into

director of Palos Verdes School Gardens—responsible

one product—this Edible Home product—and share it

for establishing edible education at schools through-

with my friends. It’s not just a business relationship;

out the South Bay.

it’s a friendship that’s growing through food.”

So what do you do when a pandemic hits and

Diana’s life and work in her Palos Verdes com-

seemingly overnight the world changes … and all

munity are perfectly intertwined and entirely about

the schools and gardens that made up your outdoor

building relationships. That’s where her passion lies.

classroom for the past 10 years close … and students

But sometimes passion can get lost in the business of

are required to continue their education remotely while

running a business. Fortunately, when the school gar-

families shelter at home? If you’re a creative, tuned-in

den program stopped and all the administrative duties

professional like Diana, you shift gears. And so began

fell away, it opened a space for a magical reconnection.

her newest project, Edible Home, and a journey to rediscover the roots of her own passion for gardening.

it all began: the first garden created when Sofia was a preschooler at Valmonte Early Learning Academy. A

sense that we already had the audience, we already

victim of neglect as a result of the shutdown, it was a

had the interest, and all we had to do was step in and

far cry from the secret garden Diana had lovingly crafted

provide the information and the education to make it

for her daughter and her classmates 10 years earlier.

school garden.” Sounds simple, but this is an example of Diana’s extraordinary ability to look through the lens of her own life and intuitively capture the zeitgeist of what

Undeterred, they went to work—filling bag after bag with weeds and clippings. She recalls, “We were together bringing it back to life, and it was meaningful for me in a way that I cannot even describe to you.” It proved to be a pivotal moment for Diana, who

was happening in a lot of other households. As people

rediscovered her passion and commitment for the

were home and more engaged in domestic activities

garden program. “At that moment, I realized I’d been

and everyday connections with their families, they

so busy trying to manage people that I had let go of

went back to basics. And there is nothing more basic

the reason why I actually was involved in the first

than home gardening.

place. And that I needed to be involved, and it had

However, growing a garden is more than just pur-

Recently Diana took her daughter Sofia to the place

“It was a perfect pivot,” Diana reflects, “in the

happen in their own personal space, as opposed to the

Diana sees her new mentoring role as rewarding for

are you already know Diana Heffernan-Schrader. A

to have my touch because that was what created the

chasing a package of seeds. Understanding the steps

extra magic—that love that only a mother has for her

from seed to kitchen is key, and that’s the service

child related to how that garden looked. It helped me

Diana provides as a personal garden coach.

fall in love with the garden again.” ■

adrift on the amazon WHEN ALISON AND KEN DUBOFF LEFT CALIFORNIA FOR PERU IN EARLY MARCH, THEY NEVER IMAGINED THAT RETURNING TO THE U.S. WOULD BE AN ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME. Written by Alison Clay-Duboff | Photographed by Ken Duboff

When I was in my 20s, I set a goal for myself that I was going to climb to the top of Machu Picchu by age 30. I believe it’s imperative to set goals and strive to accomplish one’s youthful objectives, especially if they build inner fortitude. It also helps to have a life partner who, though your

confirmed case. We weighed the risks, and against the protestations of family and friends we decided to go. I packed hand sanitizer, Airborne tablets, masks and gloves. LAX was busy—nothing out of the ordinary. Landing in Lima, there was no health screening. We enjoyed our one night in Lima and two nights in Tarapoto. Then we flew to Iquitos, where we found fellow travelers from all over the globe huddled around the

happen for you.

Hilton lobby TV watching CNN’s updates on the fastspreading virus. We had two quiet nights at the Hilton

trip to Peru. He crafted a beautiful, three-week itinerary

before meeting the boat that would take us deep into the

starting in Lima, traveling to Tarapoto, then Iquitos, then

Amazon jungle.

seven days on the Amazon aboard a magnificent vessel,

Before we left home on March 9, COVID-19 was ramping up. Yet in all of South America, Brazil had the only

goal is 27 years behind schedule, still wants to make it By December 2019, Ken had meticulously planned our

train to Lake Titicaca before returning home.

At 10 a.m. in the hotel lobby, the Cruceros River Cruise

followed by Cuzco and the prized destination, Machu

Company met us. I could see three others in a van, but

Picchu. From there we would overnight on the Belmond

introductions and pleasantries were brief. It was time to

meet the Amazon. We alighted the Cruceros Amazonas, a magnificent

The magical reflections of fluffy, white clouds rippled on the water’s surface. Wild sloths lazed in the trees, and the

vessel that accommodates 26 passengers and 20 staff.

elusive pink dolphins even made a few appearances. This

She is a wooden ship—elegant and inviting—with big

would be one of the last outings of the trip.

windows and even a Jacuzzi on the top deck. We would

It was the middle of the night when we heard loud

share the boat with only three other guests, the Clark

knocking on our stateroom door. We awoke, still sleepy

family. Ten others had canceled at the last moment.

and confused. Yet the knocking persisted.

The boat owner, Oscar; his wife; the security detail; our

Were we under attack? Pirates are a legitimate threat to

guide, Oswaldo; the ever-important barman, Vincente;

luxury river cruises, so anything was possible. We donned

and all the staff lined up for introductions and announce-

our bathrobes and stepped timorously into the dark

ments. I was like a little kid, fidgety and excited, as they

hallway where a sober Oswaldo waited. He was the only

led us to our presidential stateroom.

English-speaking staff member aboard.

The Amazon River proved breathtaking. It’s an entirely

Equally sleep-deprived, the Clarks soon joined

unique ecosystem and one of the most stunning bodies of

us—blinking into the dark aura of confusion. We were

water on earth.

informed that the Peruvian president had given orders

On our first exploration we quietly motored down the

to seal the country in 12 hours. Accelerated and poten-

river’s tributaries and marveled, mouths agape, at the wild

tially impactful decisions needed to be made. The options

macaws loudly proclaiming their dominance over the sky.

included travel through the night, which is never done

due to safety concerns, or taking our small, fast skiff to

Ken immortalized it all on video. I will never forget this

Iquitos—a dangerous, six-hour trip—in hopes to get a

magical juncture—we were communing as one people,

flight out of the country before the walls came down.

dancing, singing and feasting together against a backdrop

There were no guarantees for our safety and no assurances for getting a flight to the States … or anywhere for

of total uncertainty. Days and nights crawled past. Flights were booked and

that matter. The five of us huddled and decided we would

then canceled by the airlines. We watched the president

stay put on the boat while evaluating our options over the

of Peru give his nightly pronouncements.

next coming days. With the sun rising over the water, the promise of a

Suddenly we received an email from the American Embassy with instructions to provide information regarding

new day was simply that: a new day. At a morning break-

our group. There was an official manifest being compiled

fast briefing we were mandated to dock our vessel back at

of all American citizens stuck in Peru. It was impera-

Iquitos, and no one would be allowed to disembark until

tive that all the names were complete and correct in one

further notice.

email. We did not want to miss our placeholder on the

Shortly after this dramatic revelation, the army arrived

manifest. It was our passage home.

at our flanks—armed and austere. They wanted to come

As the days, meals, massages, cocktails and nights

aboard, but the owner gave a resounding “no.” How he

flowed into one, cortisol levels were rising. There were

held the authority to stop them we don’t know, but we all

many things for which to be grateful, but uncertainty was

exhaled in relief.

a yoke around our collective necks.

The next days followed a distinct rhythm. Breakfast

In the middle of the night, the next magical email arrived.

briefing, trying to find flights home or anywhere else,

The authenticity of the documents we needed to complete

watching the news, WhatsApp messaging, communicat-

was undeterminable. The travel pass looked like the worst

ing with contacts at the U.S. State Department and Em-

internet prank. There was the terrifying State Department

bassy. As a South Bay real estate agent, I was in several

“promissory note,” and as the term implies, you are promis-

escrows and needed to tend to my clients. Family and

ing to pay an undetermined amount of money for a flight out

friends at home were also worried about our safety.

of the country. If payment is not received once you are back

The most surreal aspect of our lockdown was the eating and drinking as if nothing in the world had changed, except

home, your passports are invalidated. We gathered on the main level at the bar and filled out

that everything had. We were imprisoned in the middle of

our documents. We had to be ready to leave for Iquitos

the Amazon on a boat with no departure date in sight.

port within a few hours. We had already packed our bags

The staff did everything in their power to keep the mo-

in anticipation.

rale up, providing education on the Amazon’s medicinal

Successful evacuees had warned of long lines and a lack

plants and the history of the inhabitants. We had movie

of food, water or bathrooms at Iquitos Airport since it was

night, a pisco sour-making class. But I realized it was

officially closed. We’d take a State Department flight to

time for us to pamper our staff, show gratitude, love and

Miami on a plane reconfigured to return illegal immigrants

appreciation for those who cared for us. I knew they were

to their home countries in South and Central America.

scared and missing their own families. We switched roles,

There would be no meal service or water, we were told.

and we five passengers became the staff and the staff became our guests. I cooked crepes in the galley kitchen with the chef watching amusedly. The Clarks waited on the tables.

The chef prepared us five boxed lunches. Our hearts were racing with cautious optimism. And then it was time. The crew lined up, this time for an emotional farewell— arms filled with local handicrafts for us. They had become

our de facto family during our 12-day quarantine. We

stared curiously as we walked through the mud to our

feared for what would become of them. Tears were shed,

awaiting transport.

but it was time to cut the umbilical cord. These amazing Peruvians had held our lives in their grasp. The plan was that once we arrived at the Iquitos port,

warmly for our selfie. We loaded up the van and said an-

we would be met by a police escort that would then ride

other emotional adieu to the owners of the boat. Oswaldo

alongside our van to the airport. It sounded reassuring,

promised to stay by our sides until we disappeared past

but it didn’t make me feel particularly safe. Why exactly

airport security.

did we need protecting? With trepidation, we climbed into the skiff. This time we had masks and gloves along with our life vests. We docked in a part of Iquitos we had not previously seen.

Our police escort was the epitome of an Amazonian woman: tall, strong and foreboding … until she smiled

With a heavy military presence and several roadblocks, we prepared to be stopped by the army for verification of travel passes. We were not stopped once. Life on the street appeared almost normal, with open

Here the poverty was palpable. Our security followed

markets full of shoppers. But as we approached closer to

closely behind, with Ken bringing up the rear. Locals

the airport, the scene segued into a heartbreaking tableau

of painfully long lines at a bank of people with signs imploring the president to allow them transport home to their families. We arrived at the airport gates. They were resoundingly closed. I hadn’t noticed the gates when we first arrived, which seemed a lifetime ago. Inside the closed airport, a surreal atmosphere permeated. At first it was completely empty, but soon a long line formed. It was hot beyond imagination, and there was no direction or guidance. Mr. Clark Sr., age 90, was wilting under the heat and stress. Finally a health screening station was set up: blood pressure and temperature checks, all questions in Spanish. Ken’s and the Clarks’ blood pressures were understandably elevated. Soon the gate crew appeared. We watched in exhausted anticipation as they marked distance placements for the line. We noticed the Clarks having a problem in front of us. Lloyd was not on the manifest. Panic ensued. Oswaldo ran around trying to contact someone of seniority. I called a contact at the U.S. Consulate. The wait was distressful. The Duboffs were not leaving Peru without the entire Clark family. After what seemed an eternity, good news: Lloyd was added to the manifest. We all passed through security. We were sweaty, nervous, relieved and anxious. But we wouldn’t truly believe it until we were airborne. In the gate area we heard snippets of other evacuees’ horror stories. Not everyone was as fortunate as we were. After what seemed to be an inordinate amount of time, we got a lovely surprise: Our ride out of Peru was a regular commercial LATAM jet. The plane sat on the tarmac with a fuel truck waiting. An argument mounted as to who would pay for the gas, Peru or the U.S. The LATAM crew arrived. As they walked through the gate area to the awaiting jet, the evacuees gave a standing ovation with shouts and tears of gratitude. Ken and I walked across the hot tarmac to our awaiting plane, the Clarks ahead of us. Our hearts pounding, we climbed the metal stairs and sank into our seats, retreating into our private thoughts. At a deserted Miami Airport we found no hygiene

protocols and a ghostly atmosphere. We spent the night at the Clark home on the New River in Fort Lauderdale. The next morning they took us back to the Miami Airport, where we bid one another tearful farewell. In the six months since this goodbye, the Clarks’ hugs are the last ones we’ve been privileged to enjoy. The flight to LAX was no less surreal. I cleaned our pod with intense, stray, nervous energy. We attempted to relax until, over the PA system, a moment of silence was requested for a fallen flight attendant just lost to COVID-19. Finally home—18 days after we left the South Bay— we found gestures of kindness from our neighbors with groceries filling our kitchen and our front porch. It was the first and only time I cried. I cried with joy. I cried with relief. I cried with gratitude. Home. We were home. ■

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real horsepower FROM FARRIER WORK TO PORSCHE RESTORATION, MAILANI RACHAEL DEYOUNG PURSUES HER PASSIONS AT A FULL GALLOP. Written by Diane E. Barber | Photographed by Shane Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Donnell

Mailani Rachael DeYoung lives life with gusto, driven by unbridled passion, authenticity and her personal mantra, “Do not let yourself or others keep you from doing what you really want to do.” Working as a farrier in a maledominated industry, coupled with physical limitations that would result in a sedentary life for most people, Mailani’s unwavering spirit pushes her to defy those odds. When she was 17 years old, Mailani broke her back snowboarding. Ten years later she was diagnosed with Ménière’s disease, a disorder of the inner ear that compromises her hearing and balance. She was also recently diagnosed with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS), a rare, genetic, connective tissue disease that can cause unstable joints, skin problems, and digestive and heart issues, among other symptoms. According to Mailani, people with hEDS are typically debilitated. “It is a huge personal accomplishment that I can do such a physical job,” she says. “We are all stronger than we think we are. Usually what stops us is our own self-doubt. It feels so good when you can push through it!” Mailani’s family relocated to Hawaii from the South Bay via Santa Cruz when she was very young. “My parents were hippies and moved to Kauai to open a health food store,” she says. “They decided to come back to L.A. for better schools.” When the DeYoungs did return to the South Bay, they bought horses. “Our horse farrier was retiring and knew Dad was good at metal fabrication and restoring Porsches, so he offered him the business. He agreed to buy it and went to school to learn the trade,” she shares. “I made my first horseshoe when I was 11 years old.” Hooked on the craft, Mailani spent summer vacations working with her father, Keith, until her snowboarding accident. “Because of the physical demands of horseshoeing, I felt I had to find another career. So I went to college and earned a B.A. in photography,” she says. “I taught at the Palos Verdes Art

Center but still wanted to shoe horses. I asked my dad, ‘Do

together while she was starting the international organiza-

you think I can ever shoe horses even though I broke my

tion, which is all about sharing a passion for these cars,

back and I am a girl?’ He told me I could do anything I set

being inclusive and women’s empowerment. It is so great to

my mind to, so I started apprenticing with him.”

know there are other women like me!”

The joy of Mailani’s chosen career far outweighs the dan-

paths with Mailani at a swap meet in Anaheim. “There was

and I’ve suffered broken bones and burns. But the rewards

a man who was scouting for commercials asking people if

of helping horses every day make it all worth it,” she says.

they were everyday Porsche drivers. When a man next to

“We care for a couple hundred horses as if they are our own

me said he was not, I said, ‘I am an everyday driver! I just

in Palos Verdes and Catalina Island. We have also cared for

bought myself a 911 for my 30th birthday.’”

elephants, rhinos and giraffes at the L.A. Zoo. This is not a job. It is a lifestyle that I love.” Her father not only ignited her horseshoeing career but also her love for Porsches. “My dad was always working on Porsches when I was growing up, and I helped him on

since appeared in additional commercials and the brand’s internet marketing. Giving back is also a calling for Mailani, who is currently training with Operation Underground Railroad to be a voice

be picked up at school in a ‘race car.’”

for victims of human trafficking. Recent high-profile cases

Mailani got her first vintage Porsche when she was 23. It car, she got involved in the Women in Porsche organization, eventually becoming a brand ambassador. “I met a woman at an event whose life paralleled mine. Her father also restored Porsches. We worked on my car

That led to an on-camera screen test and filming a commercial horseshoeing alongside her late dog, Ludo. She has

weekends,” she says. “I thought it was so cool that I got to

didn’t run but was still a dream come true. Because of that

In 2010 a Porsche North America representative crossed

gers. “I have had horses flip over on me, I’ve been bruised,

and her mother Christine’s influence sparked her empathetic interest in wanting to raise awareness and make a difference. “My mom is always helping people and often puts the needs of others before her own,” she shares. “She is also one of the smartest people I know. She inspires me to be the best I can be and to help lift people up.” ■

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Above and Beyond LONGTIME PILOT RAEGINA STEINMETZ SHARES HER ADVENTURES IN AVIATION. Written by Sara Debevec | Photographed by Monica Orozco

Although she never thought she would become a

had to get through this and do what I had to do. I

pilot, Raegina Steinmetz evolved into one. Starting

went into a whole ‘I’ve got to figure this out’ mode.”

with her work as a customer service agent at Port

to go wherever needed to get the best health care.

she thrived on the constant challenges in getting

Nine months later, she beat cancer and enrolled in

someone from point A to point B.

college to finish her bachelor’s degree—all while fly-

“They say aviation can get in your blood, and for me this was true—but I craved more,” she says. “And there the evolution began.” Blinded by traditional gender roles, Raegina pursued a

In 2015 she joined United Airlines as a first officer on the B737, then flying the B777 internationally. She continues to fly with United today and enjoys her time mentoring future United pilots through the

taking her first steps, 9/11 happened. Living through it

United Aviate program. She encourages kids to con-

up close on a maintenance delay at the gate in LaGuardia

sider a career as an airline pilot by participating in

was beyond surreal. Although devastating, this moment

activities such as United’s Christmas Fantasy Flight

catapulted her into finding her true passion.

to the North Pole, as well as Girls in Aviation Day

a pilot, she never looked back. She chose the Pan Am

through Women In Aviation International. Currently female pilots make up about 7% of all

International Flight Academy in Arizona. “I started

certificated pilots, and Raegina’s goal is to inspire

with zero hours in my logbook, and I did all my rat-

young girls to consider the possibility of flying a plane.

ings and a jet transition course in a year and three

Having overcome self-doubt to succeed in a male-

months, which is pretty fast,” she explains. “After

dominated industry, she thinks women possess skills

completing ratings, you have to build hours before

that uniquely equip them to become airline pilots.

you can go to an airline, so I instructed U.S. and

“If I make a mistake, I feel it will be more ampli-

Chinese students in mostly career pilot programs.”

fied because I am a woman,” she says. “There are not

She then joined Mesa Airlines and spent almost

that many of us in the industry, so you have to be on

nine years as a first officer and then captain on the

top of your knowledge all the time. You can’t be laid-

Canadair Regional Jet.

back, because you’ll be perceived as a bad pilot.”

But there were hurdles along the way. A year and a

She also tells women who want to go into aviation

half into working with Mesa Airlines, she was diag-

not to let money stop them if they have a passion. She

nosed with breast cancer. She went through a myriad

mentions helpful resources like The Ninety-Nines,

of emotions.

International Aviation Womens Association, Women

“I was so determined that it never occurred to me that I would not get back to flying,” she says. “I just

ing a full-time schedule.

role as a flight attendant at first. But four months after

Once Raegina made up her mind about becoming

She read and researched different doctors, willing

Columbus International Airport in Columbus, Ohio,

in Aviation International and Female Aviators Sticking Together. “It never occurred to me, even as a young

adult, that I could accomplish this big thing—to be an airline pilot at a major airline and to be flying our biggest airplane internationally.” Despite the current setback that no one could have foreseen or prepared for, Raegina remains positive about the future. “I worked so hard to get to this point, and it’s heart-wrenching to have your dream in jeopardy,” she says. “But this is who I am and what I do. I don’t want to do anything else. It was scary during 9/11, as I knew I was going to lose my job. But then a new opportunity came from it. So I remain optimistic.” ■

“IF I MAKE A MISTAKE, I FEEL IT WILL BE MORE AMPLIFIED BECAUSE I AM A WOMAN. THERE ARE NOT THAT MANY OF US IN THE INDUSTRY, SO YOU HAVE TO BE ON TOP OF YOUR KNOWLEDGE ALL THE TIME.”

Sunset AT T H E B E A C H

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Shadow Play TWO HISTORIC SCOTTSDALE RESORTS TIP THEIR HATS TO A MODERNIST PAST. Written by Darren Elms

Our tour guide, Ace, greets us in the large open

hotel, which wraps around the buzzing OH

lobby of the Hotel Valley Ho, a landmark prop-

Pool, or The Tower and its sweeping views of

erty in the heart of Scottsdale. She’s quick to

Scottsdale and Camelback Mountain. All rooms

point out the black-and-white photos adorning

and suites come thoughtfully furnished with

a nearby wall. Most are from the 1950s and the

mid-century-inspired furniture and accents,

hotel’s heyday when celebrities like Bing Crosby,

many with sliding glass doors that open to pri-

Tony Curtis, Janet Leigh and Zsa Zsa Gabor

vate balconies.

sipped martinis poolside. That magnificent mid-century aesthetic

Swanky ZuZu creates a fun vibe with a tasty menu from breakfast to dinner. The bar bustles

survives in the current incarnation of the hotel:

all afternoon and into the night with cocktails

vivid color, warm woods and modern accents

and conversation in the stylish lounge or adja-

bathed in natural light. But as Ace shares, the

cent patio. The VH Spa will reopen with safety

journey from 1956 to today wasn’t always bright

measures on October 1 and make available a full

and shiny.

list of treatments to guests. hotelvalleyho.com

A sister property on the other side of

malist style, the original Valley Ho was built

Camelback Mountain in Paradise Valley offers a

by John B. Mills based on the belief that “the

fresh take on a vintage escape. Built only a few

important thing is to make your guest feel want-

years after Valley Ho in 1959, Mountain Shadows

ed.” Mills owned the hotel along with Robert

similarly attracted celebrities alongside interna-

Foehl and his wife, Evelyn. For many years the

tional travelers and families.

hotel provided a desert oasis for Hollywood elite,

In 1960 the property enjoyed an 80-acre

even hosting Natalie Wood and Robert Wagner’s

expansion with the addition of a golf course,

nuptials in 1957.

clubhouse and more accommodations. In the

But in the ’70s the hotel changed ownership

’80s the hotel endured a corporate takeover and

and lost much of its luster in the ensuing de-

closed in 2004. After changing hands several

cades. It wasn’t until 2002 that a local company

times and undergoing a complete renovation, the

purchased the resort and began a meticulous

new incarnation of Mountain Shadows opened its

restoration. By 2005 the new Valley Ho debuted

doors in 2017.

with a cheerful nod to its glamorous past. Accommodations can be found in the main

Mountain Shadows takes a modern approach to its design, playing off the original layout but

Valley Ho

spicing up the vibe with a clean, elegant style. Rooms come spacious and beautifully appointed. With its low

Golfers will appreciate The Short Course, a fun,

profile and minimalist design, guests can take full

quick round on the par-3 with 18 holes. The original

advantage of the gorgeous desert setting.

golf course at the resort was designed and built in

Much of the activity takes place around the two

inviting ambience.

1961 by architect Arthur Jack Snyder. Architect Forrest

75-foot pools, flanked with cabanas and connected

Richardson, who was mentored by Snyder, completely

by an overwater walkway. Hearth â&#x20AC;&#x2122;61 is your hub for

redesigned the course by combining its storied heri-

food and drink, with ample outdoor dining and

tage with modern features. mountainshadows.com â&#x2013;

This page: Mountain Shadows

B U S I N E S S S P OT L I G H T

THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL Interior designer Valerie Sartini embraces change and leans in toward innovation as she styles her way across the South Bay. PHOTOGRAPHED BY SIRI BERTING

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G S E C T I O N

acquering an entire room—floor to ceiling—in high-gloss royal blue isn’t for the

B U S I N E S S S P OT L I G H T

me so happy!” Valerie beams. Not everything Valerie designs needs to

clients to turn their outdoor areas into beautiful, expanded, safe living spaces. Adding

faint of heart. And yet there she stood,

be quite so shiny and blue. But it does need

outdoor seating, entertainment systems, fire

confidently telling them to proceed.

to be unique. “I work really closely with my

walls, even outdoor kitchens were popular

clients, and we have lots of discussions before

projects over the summer.

“Keep going guys! I love it!” Valerie Sartini of Treasures Interior Design

any designing starts. So when we finally get

“Families are really wanting to stretch out

is nothing if not bold. She brings innovation, a

to designing the space, it fits the client like a

and make every space usable,” says Valerie.

heaping dose of style and a sprinkle of magic

glove—a very well-fitting, beautiful glove,” she

“Being able to move outdoors has helped

dust to all she touches. So when COVID-19

smiles, as she sits on an unfinished staircase

people feel like the real pleasure of summer—

struck and things got dicey, Valerie barely

facing the sparkling Pacific and pulls flooring

being with family and friends—hasn’t been

missed a beat. She pivoted—as she is wont to

samples from her design basket.

too disrupted.”

do—and kept on innovating.

Valerie’s strengths lie in finding perfect

Inside spaces, too, have needed reconfig-

design elements for each job, finding that

uring. “You may have two parents working

explains while walking another job site,

style fit and making it original. “The common

from home now, trying to juggle family and

inspecting this, measuring that, checking

thread running through the work is always

space.” Just another opportunity for Valerie to

the plans. “In my world, things are always

going to be quality, innovation, collaboration

problem-solve.

changing. Design doesn’t stay still. But change

and sophisticated style,” she shares.

“It’s nothing we’re not used to,” Valerie

doesn’t faze me. It’s part of the reason I love this business!”

Recently she used reclaimed barnwood

As she wraps up the job-site inspection, her cell phone rings and she holds up a finger.

laid in diagonal patterns on a single wall as a

“One sec,” she smiles as she steps away.

focal point in a bedroom. The wood’s coloring

When she returns a few minutes later, she

world that inspire Valerie to create spectacu-

and texture juxtapose the soft bedding, creat-

politely says her goodbyes. “I gotta go meet a

lar spaces for her clients. The lacquer room

ing a fresh take on beachy elegance.

client—a cute young family starting to build.”

It is constant motion and beauty in the

idea came from a San Francisco eatery. “I

Innovation is something Valerie has turned to

walked into an Italian restaurant with this

even more these past few months as families

exquisite red lacquer ceiling, and I was thun-

have had to get creative with how they interact

derstruck. I somehow had to recreate it.”

with their homes. “People are reimagining

She proposed it to her clients but went

their homes based on new needs,” she says.

Because design doesn’t stay still. And neither does Valerie.

VALERIE SARTINI

bigger and bolder—designing an entire

“Outdoor spaces, work spaces, homeschooling

TREASURES INTERIOR DESIGN

lacquer room in brilliant blue. The clients were

spaces, kitchen spaces, gathering spaces have

310-545-9404

thrilled with the results. “They were all in, and

all changed form.”

TREASURESINTERIORDESIGN.COM

they are so pleased, which of course makes

This summer, Valerie worked with several

INSTAGRAM: TREASURESINTERIORDESIGN

in the driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seat LISA CADY AND AUGUST PARO OF AGASO OUTDOOR ARE REWRITING THE MANUAL ON CLASSIC BRONCO RESTORATION. Written by Rich Thomas | Photographed by Chris Kinman & Marcos Zavitsanos

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From the high desert dunes of Joshua

meticulously assembled by a small team that’s spent

Tree to the ponderosa pines of Big

years fitting, engineering, cutting, grinding and moving

Sur, few vehicles can own California’s myriad backdrops like a Ford Bronco. Born in 1965 and raised to compete directly with the primitive yet highly

around disparate parts to craft something as durable and mechanically immaculate as it is picturesque. The two business partners were introduced through a mutual friend in California. Lisa was restoring old 4x4s, and August, recently relocated from Maryland, needed a place to store his tools and park his Bronco. Less than three months

popular Jeep CJ-5, the Bronco’s low

after their first coffee shop meeting, they signed a one-year

price point and utilitarian appeal

lease on a space just east of Westchester. August calls the

elevated its popularity. But crude construction mortgaged its longterm durability. The first-generation Bronco—from 1966 to 1977—is no

relationship a fait accompli, and the formation of the company punctuated Lisa’s career path. Lisa was born in Hawaii, raised in Michigan and received a degree in interior design from Parsons School of Design. In addition to her tenure with various high-end architectural design firms in New York and Los Angeles,

doubt canonized in the sacred hall of

she spent time restoring casement and double-hung

4x4s, but they were simply not made

windows in prewar residencies, along with other odds and

to function half a century later. “All of the stuff that’s on the Bronco was intended to

ends that piqued her interest in historic preservation. Though her automotive pursuits are relatively new, ambition and ingenuity are in her blood. Her grandfather was

go 10 years before it wound up in a landfill. It just had

an engineer who single-handedly constructed their family

to ride better and have more appeal than a Jeep,” says

cabin in Northern California with self-sustaining utili-

August Paro, cofounder of Agaso Outdoor. “Today if you

ties, and her grandmother learned how to fly a plane at age

handed it off to someone, it would be a disappointment.”

16—the youngest ever to do so in the state of Michigan. In

Not surprising, when you consider that twice the

the spring of 2016, she oversaw the restoration of her first

number of Honda Accords were sold in 1990 as there were

vehicle—a 1969 Ford Bronco—but without her own facil-

Broncos manufactured during their first 12 years of ex-

ity, she had to subcontract most of the work. After the first

istence. The task of refurbishing a Bronco is wildly more

truck sold, she bought two more and left her job at an L.A.

complex than slapping on a bunch of aftermarket parts

design firm to pursue the endeavor full time.

and swapping out tires … unless that’s where you’ve set

“I didn’t have an automotive background,” she says,

your bar, or you just want your show pony penned up in

“but a lot of what I’ve learned translates to what I’ve

a garage and available for the occasional Sunday drive

done here for the past few years, especially when it comes

around the neighborhood.

to project management and operations.”

For August and Agaso Outdoor cofounder Lisa Cady,

August’s provenance as a technician is best illustrated

restoration is an art form not for the faint of heart.

in the story behind the first car he ever purchased:

Every vehicle that passes through their workshop drinks

a 1967 Pontiac Firebird with a milk crate for a seat,

from the automotive fountain of youth. Every Bronco

which he drove home without a license. It wasn’t long

built from the ground up—from tub to taillight—is

before he disassembled the entire car on the floor of his

“UNDERSTANDING HISTORY GIVES ME A SENSE OF BELONGING ...

family’s garage. “My mother said, ‘I don’t care what happens. It doesn’t matter what you do with the rest of your life. You are putting that car back together, and it will leave here under its own power or on a tow truck, but it’s leaving here in one piece,’” he remembers. “That was it. I was hooked.” There are a few key details about the Agaso shop that

I’VE ALWAYS WANTED

speak to its owners’ DNA. First, there is the compre-

TO LEARN FROM THOSE

painstakingly cataloged, physically and digitally, so that

WHO CAME BEFORE

job need stall over a missing part. Resting on its side atop

SO I CAN IMPROVE

which has been in her family for more than 100 years and

AND EXPAND.”

hensive parts depot on the second floor that Lisa has every possible component is a stone’s throw away and no a dolly is Lisa’s great-grandmother’s baby grand piano, which she hopes to restore one day. The drill press belonged to Lisa’s grandfather, the lathe is a postwar Clausing and many of the other tools—from the metal shear to the press brake—are vintage pieces.

The workshop is an homage to classic craftsmanship, but

“Agaso was never intended to be about just Broncos,”

it runs on an ultra-premium mixture of efficiency and

says Lisa. “Our intent is to find opportunities that allow

client transparency.

us to execute craftsmanship and create connected experi-

“Understanding history gives me a sense of belonging,” says Lisa. “I’ve always wanted to learn from those

ences for our clients.” “We don’t flip trucks,” says August plainly. “Every

who came before so I can improve and expand. There’s

single thing that has driven out of here, we have killed

a quality in materials and craft that you just don’t

ourselves to make it as good as we possibly could. I don’t

see today, a longevity that allows us to bring these things

think there’s been a time when we’ve made a decision

back—from houses to windows to pianos to trucks.”

that wasn’t coming from a place of intending to be the

Since forming three years ago, Agaso Outdoor has performed numerous top-to-bottom restorations. While

best in the world at this.” Ford debuted their long-awaited 2021 Bronco on July 13

they’ve had many clients request bodywork or rewiring,

—24 years after the last model rolled off the line. In just

they specialize in major overhauls. Classic 4x4s will always

two weeks, 150,000 people put down a $100 deposit to

be at the heart of what they do, but Lisa and August don’t

save their spot in line once the vehicle goes into pro-

want to limit Agaso’s pedigree to just Broncos. On the

duction. The new breed of Bronco—a throwback to its

workshop calendar is a 1957 Chevy Cameo, as well as a

first-generation aesthetic—is off to a promising start.

1967 Porsche 912 that’s being outfitted with a Tesla drive-

But regardless of where its path leads, Agaso Outdoor will

train for a full electric conversion.

be sure to preserve its heritage. ■

Out in Front MANHATTAN BEACH’S ROCHELLE WEBB KNOWS BEING AN UNDERDOG CAN PUSH AN INDIVIDUAL TO DO GREAT THINGS. Written by Tanya Monaghan | Photographed by Monica Orozco

Entrepreneurship has bubbled in Rochelle Webb’s

me. I have to compensate in other areas to make sure I

blood for a very long time. Growing up in Atlanta,

am seen and heard. I also know that I am not the only

she remembers playing in her bedroom, lining up her

person who has this story. But I have been able to draw

stuffed animals and dolls in rows seated at attention

from my experiences to get me where I am today.”

and then assigning them all tasks. The idea of build-

Rochelle sees her business as a win-win—the de-

ing something and expressing herself creatively drove

signers get their shot at making it in America, and the

her forward.

consumers get a taste of different cultures they might

“I knew there was a very special place in the world for

not experience in person. Currently Optimist Made

me,” Rochelle shares. “It was just up to me to find it.”

represents 18 designers from six countries. Rochelle

She worked on the prized Apple account at ad-

buys their merchandise in bulk upfront and handles

vertising agency TBWA\Chiat\Day before taking on other blue-chip accounts like Visa, Activision and

their marketing and social outreach. She also created a proprietary curriculum that

Quicksilver. She used all that invaluable experience to

trains the designers on running a successful busi-

create something personally meaningful to her: the

ness. With kindness a central theme of Rochelle’s

lifestyle and fashion company Optimist Made.

mission, she donates a percentage of her proceeds to

The inspiration for the business came from her work travels. She loved shopping abroad for pieces she considered original and different. When she came home and friends or colleagues inquired about her purchases, she realized an opportunity: bring that fashion home for domestic consumers. “I say that we try to stimulate the underdog economy,” she says. “An underdog by definition is someone who is expected to lose, and I feel like I have been that person my whole life. If you look at me at face value, people expect me to lose. I am a part of the underserved. I am a minority. I am a woman. And I am amongst a group of people who don’t look like

100

“I KNEW THERE WAS A VERY SPECIAL PLACE IN THE WORLD FOR ME. IT WAS JUST UP TO ME TO FIND IT.”

45 charities, all aimed at bettering the lives of those less fortunate. One of her designers started out collecting scraps

102

Telling personal stories and connecting with the designers one-on-one goes straight to the heart of Rochelle’s business. “We usually both end up in tears,”

of material and having them sewn together by a local

she confides. “We help them see something that they

tailor to create her designs. The tailor paid it forward

didn’t see in themselves before. And it’s at those times

by giving her a three-minute sewing lesson so she

that I feel like I am looking in the mirror. I still find it

could do it herself. This gave her the foundation nec-

surprising when people believe in me or want to sup-

essary to start her own line, and the rest she learned

port me, and I really want to be that mirror for these

by watching YouTube videos.

designers.” ■

You take the lead

Explore your passions. Realize your potential.

Join us at a Virtual Open House October 24, December 12, January 9

WE BELIEVE THEREâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S A BETTER WAY TO DO HIGH SCHOOL @vistamarschool Vistamar is a private independent high school in the South Bay

as seen in

In every issue, we share one story across our network that explores topics beyond the limits of the South Bay. These California stories speak to the meaningful impact our state and its residents are making on the global stage. To learn more about Golden State and discover more stories like this, visit goldenstate.is.

d/isinformation m in 2020 AS THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF STANFORDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CYBER POLICY CENTER, KELLY BORN CARES DEEPLY ABOUT THE GOVERNANCE OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES AND THEIR IMPACT ON DEMOCRACY, SECURITY AND GEOPOLITICS. AS CITIZENS, TECH CONSUMERS AND VOTERS, WE SHOULD TOO. Written by Jennifer Massoni Pardini | Photographed by Anastasia Blackman

“I’ve been very interested in disadvantaged communities and the power structures and the policies

“This was so far in advance of Trump and widespread recognition of U.S. polarization. It was really prescient of [Kramer]. I was excited to be involved because there were early signs then of deep polarization in the U.S. and

that determine who wins and who

no other major philanthropies were working on it from

loses,” Kelly Born says on a late-

that angle,” she says, as opposed to a focus on emerging

April video call. She can speak to this through line of interest both from

foreign democracies. Born led Hewlett’s work on electoral reforms (like redistricting and ranked choice voting), civic engagement,

personal experience (she mentions time spent living in

media and money in politics. “Seeing so much more

the family car while growing up in Colorado, before mov-

information consumption moving online, I became curi-

ing to Los Angeles for college) and professional expertise.

ous about how that was going to impact our democratic

As Born explains how we arrived at 2020 levels of d/mis-

systems.” In 2013 she also began making her first grants

information and what we can do about it, it’s clear how

to explore the effects of fact-checking.

Then the 2016 election happened. Public understanding

considerably her career has contributed to the field in which she now has a presiding role—as executive director

of Russian interference via our new information ecosys-

of the Cyber Policy Center at the Freeman Spogli Institute

tems—from the misappropriation of personal data to the

for International Studies at Stanford University.

email hacking of Clinton campaign chair John Podesta

That career kicked off with the Monitor Group, doing

and others—broadened. Simultaneously, “misinforma-

strategic planning for Fortune 100 companies, governments

tion” entered the lexicon at large, joining “fake news”

and nonprofits the world over. Her economic development

and then “alternative facts” and “post-truth politics” as

and government work led to scenario planning with the

Trump continued to foment distrust of the press.

NSA and CIA over national security questions (e.g., How

By mid-2017 Born argued that philanthropy’s fund-

left might Latin America go under Venezuelan President

ing of journalism should shift to funding research on the

Hugo Chávez?).

impact of social media platforms. “We have quality in-

Her interest in geopolitics led to a master’s degree

formation on climate change, on vaccines, and that’s not

in international policy at Stanford rather than a more

actually changing people’s minds,” she recalls of a focus

mainstream MBA. Then she set off again for assignments

on fact-checking and news literacy as ways to counter

abroad—consulting with the Vietnamese government and

d/misinformation. “I think one of the biggest problems is

doing microfinance work in Paris with the World Bank.

suggesting that somehow citizens are going to solve this

After returning to the U.S. to have the first of her two

problem. We have the FDA for a reason. No one is going

daughters, she joined the Hewlett Foundation, eventu-

to sit down and try to understand the chemical com-

ally helping launch their democracy program, The Madison

pounds in shampoo.”2

Initiative, under the direction of current president Larry Kramer. At the time, in 2012, the initiative was “the first ma-

its consumption, Born focused midstream: on distribution.

jor bipartisan philanthropic effort to improve U.S. democ-

“That is the thing that has changed most fundamentally

racy,” Born says.

in our information ecosystem,” she says, pointing to the

DISINFORMATION, as Born has defined in her paper “The

At the end of May, Twitter added fact-check labels to President

future of truth: Can philanthropy help mitigate misinformation?”

Trump’s unsubstantiated tweets about mail-in ballot fraud, a

published June 8, 2017, is “intentionally false or inaccurate

significant step in policing misinformation from world leaders. In

information that is spread deliberately, generally by unknown

response, Trump filed an executive order to, in part, repeal Section

state officials, with a motive of undermining public confidence,”

230 of the Communications Decency Act, which protects online

while MISINFORMATION is “unintentionally promulgated,

platforms from liability for posts by users, and to enhance a Federal

inaccurate information, which differs from propaganda in that

Trade Commission tool for “reporting online bias”—increasing the

it always refers to something which is not true, and differs from

tensions between free speech and the digital age.

disinformation in that it is ‘intention neutral.’”

106

Rather than focus on the production of information or

107

speed, scale, and ability to micro-target across social media platforms (and across multiple languages). “Moreover, 95% of the ‘problematic’ content isn’t ‘fake,’” Born explains of the d/misinformation that would continue to evolve. “It could be a story that’s a little misleading, targeted at a minority group in a swing district with the intention to suppress votes or to inflame people around polarized issues.” With an eye toward policy changes that could counter d/misinformation, research was needed to discover how much was out there, who was circulating it, and what impact it was having on voting beliefs and behaviors. As with any regulation, when it comes to tech policy, Born underscores a critical point: “Everything is a values trade-off. We want high-quality information, and we want free speech. We want privacy, and we want transparency and accountability.” And regulating around fundamental democratic or human rights values gets, she says, quite complicated. Fortunately, others were coming to the table. Born was now hosting calls that had grown from including just two or three other funders before the election to every major funder in the U.S. interested in understanding the impact that the internet was having on our democratic information ecosystems. A pursuit of research revealed that data was sorely missing too. “This is really the first time in human history that the richest data about how our societies are functioning is held by private companies,” Born says, rather than via academic survey or government census. “And they wouldn’t share it.” Then Hewlett, along with Harvard, received a gamechanging call from top Facebook leadership. The following week, on April 10, 2018, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg began testifying before congressional lawmakers about data privacy and Russian disinformation campaigns on Facebook. Zuckerberg agreed to give the data to a consortium of independent experts to analyze the impact that Facebook was having on elections and democracy globally. “This was the birth of Social Science One,” Born says of the Facebook partnership turned scientific program between private industry and academic researchers that is now housed at Harvard’s Institute for Quantitative Social Science. She became the funder chair and from the start was

108

The People + the Programs @ Stanford’s Cyber Policy Center • Nathaniel Persily heads the center’s Program on Democracy and the Internet. Dan Boneh, professor in applied cryptography and computer security and codirector of the Stanford Computer Security Lab, serves as faculty codirector of the center alongside Persily. Frank Fukuyama, the Mosbacher director of Stanford’s Center on Democracy, Development and the Rule of Law, is working on antitrust and the platforms. Professor of political science Rob Reich, who directs Stanford’s Center for Ethics in Society and codirects the Stanford Center on Philanthropy and Civil Society, is teaching one of the first classes in the country on tech ethics. (This year, they will also graduate the first class of master’s in policy students with a cyber policy and security concentration.) • Director Alex Stamos, the former chief security officer of Facebook, and technical research manager Renée DiResta run the Stanford Internet Observatory, one of the world’s leading groups identifying coordinated manipulation campaigns globally.

very intentional about wanting it to be a bipartisan effort, to not have fake news become a partisan issue like climate change. Funders including the Koch Foundation, the Arnold Foundation and the Sloan Foundation were asked to join. Clement Wolf, Google’s global public policy lead for information integrity, has engaged with Born on several related initiatives including Social Science One and some of the first meaningful conversations between industry, academia, civil society and government. “She is very generous with her knowledge and has been a fantastic advisor,” Wolf says by email, pointing to Born’s “collaborative ethos” in particular. “The conversations she fostered laid the groundworks for research, analytical frameworks, or debates and discussions that continue to be relevant today; she has made it possible for organizations that had a lot to offer in terms of expertise and know-how to start specializing on this set of issues and become leaders in the field. And her relentless advocacy for the information needs of

• The Global Digital Policy Incubator is under the direction of Eileen Donahoe, the former and first U.S. Ambassador to the UN Human Rights in the Obama administration, who with political sociologist and democratic studies scholar professor Larry Diamond looks at questions of human rights and the Internet. • As director of the Program on Geopolitics, Technology, and Governance, Andrew Grotto, who formally served as the senior director for cybersecurity policy at the White House in both the Obama and Trump administrations, works on security questions and runs cyber boot camps for staffers and journalists.

researchers and civil society has informed the perspective of many in industry over the years.” Indeed, with unprecedented collaboration then underway at what Born describes as this “intersection of the internet, democracy and information ecosystems,” and with a Hewlett Foundation term limit approaching, she was also thinking about her next career move—from going to another philanthropy to a think tank to starting her own nonprofit. Then Stanford Law School professor Nathaniel Persily, one of the three primary partners on Social Science One

• Daphne Keller, a former Google lawyer and a top intermediary liability expert, runs the Program on Platform Regulation, often critiquing new government policy and testifying before Congress (which many of her colleagues are also well-versed in doing).

and a codirector of the Cyber Center, and Stanford profes-

• As director of the Social Media Lab, professor of communication Jeff Hancock is looking at how new digital technologies affect social well-being and mental health.

into the current Cyber Policy Center.

“We have everybody,” executive director Kelly Born says of her team of about 40, which also includes the center’s international policy director Marietje Schaake, who served a decade in European Parliament working on technology, trade and foreign policy.

mined by questions around cyber policy,” Born says, citing

sor of political science and director of the Freeman Spogli Institute Michael McFaul—the former U.S. Ambassador to the Russian Federation under President Obama, approached her about building what was then Stanford’s Cyber Initiative “Coming back full circle to my earliest concerns, the questions about who wins and who loses in the society that our children inherit are going to be heavily deterexamples from prison sentencing now being done algorithmically to online discriminatory pricing to genderbiased hiring algorithms, as well as unprecedented data collection on citizens’ health outcomes in light of COVID-19. “You’re looking at the introduction of this fifth

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110

domain of global conflict … before it was land, sea, air,

Program, to host the first Aspen congressional delega-

space, and now any war will begin with cyber. So I came to

tion visit to Silicon Valley in March to tour the platforms

feel that this is really the question of our generation: How

and consider the ever-overlapping questions around data

do we govern these digital technologies in ways that uphold

privacy, free speech, democracy and the internet. And

democratic principles and basic human rights?”

then COVID-19 broke.

With Stanford’s roster of top scholars, Silicon Valley’s

“I’m now hosting a series of webinars with thought

proximity to platforms and with the platforms themselves

leaders around the world to talk about how digital tech-

looking to academic research, Born saw where she needed

nology is being impacted and is impacting the current

to be to unpack and answer that question. In her found-

pandemic. My view is that the vulnerabilities and the

ing director role at Stanford’s Cyber Policy Center, an im-

opportunities that we are observing under COVID-19 are

pressive team has been assembled across six programs—

important in and of themselves to understand, but also

all focused on the governance of digital technology at the

have significant implications for those medium-term

intersection of democracy, security and geopolitics. In an

policy questions around the 2020 elections and long-term

election year, their work couldn’t be more pressing.

policy questions because we’re seeing how vulnerable

If hindsight really is 20/20, what have we learned and

these systems are—from Zoom to Facebook. Many of

what are the new challenges? Born is well positioned

these companies’ #1 effort right now,” she says of such

to weigh in on some key differences. To begin, there is

platforms, “is on monitoring mental health or self-harm

awareness and attention on the platforms themselves.

on the platforms, or on shoring up server capacity so the

A community has also been built. “We have a field now,”

whole thing doesn’t collapse because we have such a huge

Born continues of disinformation. “Before 2016 there were

volume of people online.” But this takes attention away

just a handful of us talking about this.” Now she helps host

from content moderation in advance of an unprecedented

bimonthly calls with the top academic centers and think

election, where again (due to social isolation) more elec-

tanks around the country. Currently, their focus is on elec-

tion activity will be moving online.

tion planning as more election communications activities (from town halls to political ads) move online. Third, there are frameworks for better understand-

Born is also assessing the economic implications, as a concentration of power moves to online purchasing platforms and, as always, taking the geopolitical view.

ing how manipulation campaigns work. Born points to

“You’re seeing massive new surveillance technology

Graphika’s chief innovation officer Camille François’

deployment—most of it, if you look at Hungary, China,

development of the “ABC framework” (Actor, Behavior,

without sunset clauses. There’s this argument: Is this the

Content) at play in disinformation campaigns. “When we

new 9/11? We had these massive government power grabs

first started in the field in 2016, our frame was very much

because people were in such a fear-based mindset, and

around content takedowns,” Born says of demoting or

then that power was never relinquished.”

removing inaccurate information. “Since 2016 the field has

In 2020, with an upcoming election, a global pan-

moved to the A and B of the framework. Who is the actor?

demic and a continued effort from numerous actors to

Is it a known disinformation operative? Is it a fake account?

undermine U.S. democracy—the only major presidential

Regardless, these people shouldn’t be allowed to intervene

democracy in the world that hasn’t yet failed—the stakes

in our information systems. Or B, the behavior component.

couldn’t be higher for the questions Born is chasing.

If you are doing manipulative microtargeting, if you are

“People will look back 50 or 100 years from now and

running a bot network, if you are operating out of a troll

say we, right now, determined the right infrastructure for

farm, these behaviors should not be permissible.”

governing our digital technologies—or we totally screwed

Taken together, the disinformation community can better understand how the current media ecosystem differs from

it up,” she says of this disinformation arms race. “I think it’s all going to happen in the next five years.”

past media ecosystems, opening up space around solutions.

With Born and her A-team at Stanford—with their

With a continued focus on those solutions, Born had

concern, understanding and access—we may just have

been planning, with the Aspen Institute Congressional

our best shot at getting it right. ■ |

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“We are very passionate about empowering women. Our tagline is ‘Inspiring Lives, Empowering Entrepreneurs.’ We’re deeply committed to helping you share your message and grow an inspired brand. In causes that matter to us and organizations that make a difference, more women need to put our money where our passion is. We also need more women in the 4% of businesses making over seven figures, and we empower women entrepreneurs to see that possibility.” – KERI MURPHY, INSPIRED LIVING

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KERI MURPHY INSPIRED LIVING

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KIM DIGILIO SENT FROM THE FUTURE

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

KERI MURPHY CEO/Founder, Inspired Living

nspired Living offers a team of expert coaches—from social media and web design to systems and automation—to support clients in growing their business, clarifying their message and showing up authentically on camera. Founder Keri Murphy is an international speaker, media expert, business mentor and television veteran with appearances on MTV, E!, FOX and NBC. TAKE A RISK OR PLAY IT SAFE IN BUSINESS? “I don’t think you can actually be in business and not be willing to take risks. During these times, it has never been more important to double down, really commit to marketing, build your team, invest in yourself and get your message out there in a bigger way. Research shows that the businesses that make it through recessions and downturns are the ones that continue to invest in their message and their marketing.” WHAT CHALLENGES ARE SPECIFIC TO YOUR INDUSTRY? “As a business owner, you know you need to connect and convert online, but you don’t know how. Since everyone has pivoted to online events and trainings, it’s very easy to get lost. It’s vital that you understand your core message and who you’re trying to reach. Most businesses are way too vague with their message and don’t know how to emotionally connect with the ideal consumer online. There is so much opportunity, but most business owners don’t know how to take advantage of this time. That’s where we can really help!”

WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU MADE DUE TO COVID-19? “We shifted to doing more virtual events. In the past we hosted a lot of in-person events and since have taken them online. At first it was scary, but we’re having more success because we’re able to reach more people online. Plus, what we do is very specialized and very needed—especially during this time.

We all have these ‘preparation meets opportunity’ examples in our businesses now.” TELL US ABOUT A RECENT SUCCESS STORY AT INSPIRED LIVING. “One of our clients last year decided that she was going to commit to being more visible, even though she was very uncomfortable using video and did not enjoy being on camera. She knew that being more visible was going to be important if she was going to serve the people who need her. Since then, she’s been asked to host her own radio show, she’s launched her podcast ‘The Rutledge Perspective’ and she’s using video regularly. Her business is growing tremendously, and she has a new sense of confidence. We love seeing this! It’s really is amazing what happens when you commit to showing up and supporting more people.” WHAT IS YOUR #1 PIECE OF ADVICE DURING THIS UNPRECEDENTED TIME? “My #1 piece of advice is to keep going and keep sharing your message. Don’t give up on your dream. Hold that vision and ask for help. Don’t stay stuck. I did that during the last recession, and it was one of the greatest lessons. Don’t wait until you’re underwater to ask for the float. Get the support you need and commit to being visible and sharing your message right now.” HOW DO YOU SUPPORT OTHER WOMEN IN BUSINESS? “We are very passionate about empowering women. Our tagline is ‘Inspiring Lives, Empowering Entrepreneurs.’ We are committed to helping women share their message and grow inspired brands. In causes that matter to us and organizations that make a difference, more women need to put our money where our passion is. We also need more women in the 4% of businesses making over seven figures, and we empower women entrepreneurs to see that possibility.”

WHAT HAVE BEEN YOUR PROUDEST MOMENTS DURING THE RECENT CRISIS? “The proudest moment is that I had a baby in February, right before the pandemic hit. And I am proud that we are a closer-knit family, that we’re all healthy and that our businesses are still thriving during this time. I also finally launched IL beauty—a makeup line I’ve wanted to launch for more than five years that is specifically designed to help women feel more beautiful on-camera and off!” HAS MOTHERHOOD MADE YOU A BETTER ENTREPRENEUR? “Motherhood has definitely made me a better entrepreneur. I am a little more patient. I’m more focused with my time and priorities. I have more empathy and compassion for other mothers, understanding the balancing act and constant juggling that we’re all doing as we manage our businesses and our families.” WHAT ARE YOU GRATEFUL FOR TODAY? “I am incredibly grateful that I have a business I love and that it is still growing. I lost a business during the last recession, so I know how devastating that can be. Now I get to help others avoid that! I’m also grateful to have a healthy, beautiful family and a team that really believes in the Inspired Living mission: We’re committed to changing lives and helping people make a greater difference in the world.” WHAT PROJECTS DO YOU SUPPORT TO HELP THOSE IN NEED? “We believe it’s important to give back. In fact, the reason we want to help other women grow successful brands is so they can put it back out into the world. You get what you give. We contribute to causes like the Unstoppable Foundation, Step Up, Walk With Sally and Girls Up. Our passion is to help as many young women as possible see the incredible potential that they have in their life!”

703 PIER AVE., SUITE B230, HERMOSA BEACH | 424-488-6063 | INSPIREDLIVING.TV

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

MANHATTAN BEACH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

WHAT IS THE HISTORY OF THE MBCC? “The MBCC was incorporated in California on March 10, 1941, and is known for founding many well-known programs and events that brought the community together and advocated for South Bay companies. The Chamber worked in the ’40s to encourage business expansion and campaigned against beach pollution. It sponsored festivals and fairs that added flavor to the social life of the city. The summer fairs were abandoned 20 years later, but their spirit lives on in the Old Towne Fair. The Chamber also initiated the annual Manhattan Art Festival, the Santa Claus float project in December and annual recognition awards for outstanding citizens. In 1955 the Chamber began its yearly International Paddleboard Race from Catalina Island to Manhattan Beach. The event soon became a three-day aquatic spectacle, featuring lifeguard races, volleyball tournaments, dory races, surf mat races, a parade, band concert and dance, Coast Guard demonstration, and the channel race itself—the longest in the world, with 50,000 people on the beach to greet the winner. The race was abandoned in 1961, but the other events are continued in the annual Surf Festival now cosponsored by the other Beach Cities.”

TAKE A RISK OR PLAY IT SAFE IN BUSINESS? “The bold leadership by both the president/ CEO and the board of directors has made the MBCC a respected trailblazer in the South Bay. The dynamic board members bring an incredibly accomplished depth and appreciation for driving the local economy. The MBCC is known for stepping out of the box, advocating for small businesses and creating programs that enhance the community at large. It adds an extra focus on women in business, providing new opportunities and recognition for women entrepreneurs and leaders.” WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU MADE DUE TO COVID-19? “We have Zoomed and shifted as quickly as possible! The MBCC has remained open and very active during the pandemic. We have relentlessly worked with the city of Manhattan Beach to adapt to the needs of businesses and to provide a path to survive the shutdown. We’ve brainstormed with area leaders about moving restaurant, fitness and personal care operations outside. We’ve advocated for extensions in rent and payment options. We’ve listened to the challenges each one faces and provided resources. The MBCC is committed to helping every firm survive COVID-19.” WHAT IS YOUR #1 PIECE OF ADVICE DURING THIS UNPRECEDENTED TIME? “Be relentless, actively listen, create new ways like you never knew you could and do everything you can to take care of yourself. Breathe deeper and more often. This too shall pass, and together we will create and gracefully navigate the new reality.” TELL US ABOUT THE HEROES ON YOUR TEAM. “Look at these dynamos! They are intelligent, intuitive, compassionate and an insanely educated, evolved, successful and involved group of female visionaries. They care deeply about each other, the community and every

member. They are welcoming, strategic and big-picture thinkers.” WHAT HAVE BEEN YOUR PROUDEST MOMENTS DURING THE RECENT CRISIS? “Giving hope to distraught business owners doing everything they can to keep their company afloat. We spend hours and days sifting through informational calls and sessions so we can provide the most accurate and helpful information to each member. Listening to the social climate and forming the first-ever MBCC Inclusion Committee. Our local business leaders have a powerful collective voice and network that drive movement and create change. Considering recent national events and the need to focus on inclusion, the Chamber believes inclusion is when every single person in the community is valued, heard, respected, empowered and feels a true sense of belonging. It goes beyond tolerance to celebrating and elevating every person in the room and beyond. The role of the Inclusion Committee will be to provide a lens of inclusion in all aspects of our work, including communications, marketing, promotion, processes and events, and to advocate for awareness of such within other organizations. They’ll work to identify opportunities to ensure Chamber programming and practices are fair and provide forwardlooking recommendations to ensure the MBCC is a leader in championing all sectors of the corporate community. The MBCC was instrumental in the development and execution of the Safe in the South Bay COVID-19 program. We collaborated with the Beach Cities Health District and neighboring chambers of commerce to provide clarity and effective means to implement the mandatory L.A. County COVID-19 workplace protocols. The program provides resources to employers, helps employees feel safe and confident in the workplace, and increases consumer confidence while frequenting the participating businesses.”

425 15TH ST., MANHATTAN BEACH | 310-545-5313 | MANHATTANBEACHCHAMBER.COM

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he Manhattan Beach Chamber is an association of businesses, other entities and individuals organized to encourage a strong local economy and quality of life by promoting commerce, sound government, and an informed membership and community. The Chamber is a 501(c)(6) nonprofit corporation funded by membership dues, sponsorship income and event revenue. Its board of directors is comprised of 18 directors who are leaders in their local corporate sector—11 of the which are women. Kelly Stroman has been the president/CEO of the MBCC since January 2019. Latrice McGlothin became chair of the board in July.

L to R: Lilly Swardstrom, PixelFish Latrice McGlothin, Kinecta Federal Credit Union Kelly Stroman, MB Chamber of Commerce Jill Brunkhardt-Taylor, Chevron

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

MALLORY EBRAHEMI Vice President, Jack Nadel International

riginally from Stephens City, Virginia, Mallory Ebrahemi relocated to Los Angeles—with the support of her parents, who encouraged her to look outside her small town for her future— to attend the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising. She graduated with a degree in product development and soon started working with Jack Nadel International, a firm that specializes in promotional marketing. Mallory has worked with JNI for 10 years and was recently promoted to vice president.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR JOB AT JNI. “For the past 10 years, I’ve created wildly innovative, buzzworthy promotional merchandise together with my JNI creative team. We take an agency approach to promotional marketing, which also enables us to elevate our clients’ brands in a tangible way, leaving lasting impressions.” WHAT IS YOUR SPECIALTY SERVICE? “I shine most when I am given the opportunity to create something that is a true representation of the client’s brand. For example, I collaborate with Las Vegas nightlife venues on the invitations for their grand openings and special events. These are high-budget, extremely creative pieces sent to many A-list celebrities, so they must stand out. I have created everything from temperature-sensitive glass invites to mini-replicas of the venue to boxes that look like DJs’ heads. I take this same approach when it comes to general swag, questioning how we can elevate the brand through meaningful promotional pieces.” TELL US ABOUT A RECENT SUCCESS STORY. “Typically, we have our annual sales meeting each April, where our sales team of 200+ people from all over the globe come together to connect, learn and grow. Just like many

other things this year, our meeting was canceled and we pivoted quickly to a virtual format. A special part of the meeting is the awards ceremony; we love celebrating our colleagues’ accomplishments. But I wasn’t sure how the awards portion would work on a virtual platform. One morning, my husband (who also works for JNI, and yes, that is how we met!) told me that some of our higher-ups would be presenting an award to him that he already knew about—and that I should get ready for pictures. Little did I know, they were coming to see me as well! I opened the door to my CEO holding a sign that read: ‘Mallory Ebrahemi, Vice President.’ It was an incredibly special moment because my little boy, Bryson, got to be a part of it, and my husband captured the whole thing on film. I will never forget that experience and the immense amount of gratitude I have for my JNI family.” WHAT ARE YOU GRATEFUL FOR TODAY? “Being able to work from home and watching my little man grow and learn every day. It truly has been a gift.” WHAT CHALLENGES ARE SPECIFIC TO YOUR INDUSTRY? “A large portion of the work we do is eventspecific, so when COVID-19 hit, our industry was deeply impacted. Over the course of a few months, we saw event after event get canceled. My incredible sourcing team has made it possible for us to offer PPE items to our clients, and that has been a game changer for my business during this time. My primary clients, who focus on getting people in their doors, have been hit the hardest during the shutdown. It’s been challenging watching them suffer; we are in this with them. Together, we are innovating new ways to reconnect their customers with

their brands—whether it’s switching to online events, livestream events, in-person venues, and restaurants and stores.” IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU EMPOWER OTHER WOMEN TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS? “I serve as the mentor manager at Jack Nadel, overseeing the newer salespeople. I pair them with a mentor for some time; then they work directly with me for a while until they get their feet wet. When I have young women in the program, it is my duty to empower them to understand that anything is possible in this business. Seeing these ladies soar gives me so much pride.” HAS MOTHERHOOD MADE YOU A BETTER EMPLOYEE? “The working mom struggle has always been hard on me. Do I stay home more? Or do I take on more at work? I struggled with this for the first two years of Bryson’s life—and then the pandemic hit. While it has presented so many struggles, it also has allowed me the working-mom balance that I always wanted. I gave myself permission to lean into my role as a mama, and that balance is what makes me a better consultant.” WHAT PROJECTS DO YOU SUPPORT TO HELP THOSE IN NEED? “My husband and I are deeply involved with the South Bay Children’s Health Center. We love this local organization! They provide mental health care and dental care for children in need and their families. We also focus most of our donations on smaller, grassroots organizations that focus on feeding those in need such as It’s All About the Kids and Awaken Love for Africa.” WHAT IS YOUR #1 PIECE OF ADVICE DURING THIS UNPRECEDENTED TIME? “Find the good.”

1201 MORNINGSIDE DR., MANHATTAN BEACH | 310-815-5412 NADEL.COM | INSTAGRAM: MADEBYME_JNI | MALLORY.EBRA@NADEL.COM

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

ANN GRANT, MIRIAM CHANG, JACKIE MILLER The Dream Team

ivorce is tough—especially during a shutdown. The divorce rate in the United States is expected to continue rising due to the stresses created by the COVID-19 pandemic. A trio of female business owners in the South Bay recently combined forces to help clients navigate the divorce process. Known as The Dream Team, divorce coach Jackie Miller, financial consultant Miriam Chang and family law attorney Ann Grant offer clients legal, financial and emotional support throughout their divorce proceedings and beyond. Jackie Miller has been a South Bay resident for more than 20 years, raising her two daughters here and started her coaching business after experiencing her own divorce. Miriam pursued her career in international and expatriation tax, working for Big Four public accounting firms for two decades prior to establishing her private practice. Being part of a blended family gives Miriam an in-depth understanding of the financial complexities of divorce. Ann was a partner at a large international law firm before she opened her family law practice in Manhattan Beach, following her own divorce. WHAT IS A DIVORCE COACH? Jackie: “The American Bar Association (ABA) defines divorce coaching as a goal-oriented process designed to support, motivate and guide people going through a divorce to help them make the best possible decisions for their future. I am a board-certified divorce coach and can help prepare you for the emotional and overwhelming journey ahead. Together we will make a plan for communicating with your spouse and define your wants, needs and goals so you can move efficiently through the divorce process.”

WHAT IS A CERTIFIED DIVORCE FINANCIAL ANALYST® OR CDFA®? Miriam: “Divorce is as much a financial transaction as it is a legal one. I am a CDFA® with a background in tax and can translate financial items in comprehensive terms to compile the information needed for the settlement, attorneys or courts. By building financial awareness of the nuances of the marital split and any support payments, I offer clients clarity and confidence with financial planning for the future, so you have the relief that you’ll be OK ending this chapter and embarking on your new life.” WHAT IS IT LIKE WORKING TOGETHER? Ann: “We respect and like each other! Working with professionals that excel in their field and share the same values is important. When you can work with friends, work becomes fun!” WHAT IS THE DREAM TEAM’S MISSION? “We love the team approach to helping our clients obtain their goals. Divorce is an opportunity to re-create your life on your terms. We know that it is possible because we have walked that path ourselves. We get it and not only understand but appreciate how vulnerable we felt during this time. It changes the dynamics of how we help with our clients. We understand that there is a better, more empowered way of getting through your divorce—one of our team’s main goals. We’re also moms and hold all those wonderful, innate qualities that translate to protection and nurture. With our years of experience handling high-conflict dissolutions, we get results—both in and out of the courtroom. We are passionate about helping our clients get what they need to create a new and better life. We are excited to join forces to create an energetic

movement of support. Never has it been timelier to take back your power.” WHY SHOULD CLIENTS CHOOSE TO WORK WITH THE DREAM TEAM? “Using a holistic tribe of professionals with the right expertise allows you to better navigate your way through divorce legally, financially and emotionally. We will minimize the time, cost and stress associated with this arduous process. Working side-by-side and closely with this team, clients benefit in many areas—from emotional to communication to organization. We’ll support you with what you need to prepare and structure a plan that will increase the quality and effectiveness of the time spent with your legal team, in court or as you negotiate. The Dream Team will help you get through—and beyond—divorce successfully.” WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES SPECIFIC TO YOUR INDUSTRY? “Divorce can be stressful and often crisisridden for many couples. Having your divorce team focus on their field of expertise is a powerful way to lift you through the process. It’s important for our clients to understand what they are doing, have clarity on their situation, and know the outcome was fair and equitable.” IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU EMPOWER OTHER WOMEN TO SUCCEED? “When you can envision what needs to change in order to get where you want to go, it will help you feel the sensation of reaching your goal even before you get there. We explore the art of possibility and wholeheartedly celebrate your success.”

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L to R: Miriam Chang, Jackie Miller, Ann Grant

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

AMERICA MICHAEL Owner, Homes By America | Keller Williams Beach Cities

ealtor® America Michael and the Homes By America team at Keller Williams Beach Cities support buyers and sellers throughout the South Bay. America worked in marketing and operated a home-organization business before entering the real estate industry in 2011. TELL US ABOUT A UNIQUE FEATURE OF YOUR BUSINESS. “Real estate is a people business, and we love connecting people! We make the experience of buying and selling real estate in the South Bay simple, easy and enjoyable for our clients. We know that life is stressful enough as it is, so buying and selling your home shouldn’t be stressful. We know the South Bay market like the back of our hand and use our extensive network to the advantage of our clients. We are excellent at thinking outside the box and putting winwin deals together through our off-market network. We are experts at preparing, pricing and marketing homes for sale to ensure they stand out in the market and sell quickly to the right buyers. We believe there is the right buyer for every home and the right home for every buyer. Our job is to connect the two and ensure the best outcome for our clients.” WHEN DID YOU FIRST CONSIDER WORKING IN REAL ESTATE? “I never imagined I would become a Realtor, but after starting my home-organizing business, I saw real estate as the obvious next step.” WHAT CHALLENGES ARE SPECIFIC TO YOUR INDUSTRY? “The biggest challenge in real estate at the moment is keeping clients calm and focused on their goals, with the unpredictable and unprecedented changes happening in the market. Plenty of buyers delayed buying in the first half of the year, so now we are

focused on finding our buyers their dream home and helping our sellers take advantage of the hot market.” WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU MADE DUE TO COVID-19? “COVID-19 has created so many challenges for our industry, but we’ve taken the opportunity to move a lot of our systems and processes online and streamlined things for our clients so they can have the same experience that we are famous for … in a safe way.” IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU EMPOWER OTHER WOMEN TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS? “My business has been built on women supporting women. I am friends with some incredible female Realtors and business owners in the South Bay who have been clients, mentors, service providers and marketing partners. I strongly believe that the more we can do to lift each other up, the better a place the world will be.” TELL US ABOUT YOUR SUPPORT SYSTEM. “My team at Keller Williams Beach Cities has never stopped supporting and believing in me. I have an incredible assistant, Stephanie Crothers, who is an amazing woman and a huge asset to my business. My husband works as a business operations coach, so he has helped me take my business to the next level. He also helps me find some ‘me’ time, which is a rarity I value!” DO YOU HAVE A RECENT SUCCESS STORY? “I was recently recognized as the Keller Williams Beach Cities top individual agent and in the top 1.5% of all Realtors nationally by REAL Trends, which is a testament to our growing family of clients in the South Bay.” TAKE A RISK OR PLAY IT SAFE IN BUSINESS? “I’m naturally a risk-averse person and have

built my business in what I consider a very safe way, but I am learning to take more calculated risks in business as we grow and come up with new ways to serve our clients.” WHAT WOULD BE YOUR IDEAL DAY OFF OR VACATION? “My ideal day off would involve jumping on a plane to Bali and telling everyone I’ll be back in a couple of weeks! Costa Rica is very dear to my heart, and I can’t wait to explore the jungles and beaches when we can get back to traveling. Back home, I love to hike with friends in Palos Verdes, walk The Strand and eat at the amazing restaurants the South Bay has to offer.” WHAT ARE YOU ESPECIALLY GRATEFUL FOR TODAY? “I am so grateful to live in a community that values peoples’ talents and personalities. I have built countless friendships in the South Bay in the past 15 years since moving here from the Bay area. The South Bay is truly a special community, and I am grateful to be a part of it.” WHAT PROJECTS DO YOU SUPPORT TO HELP THOSE IN NEED? “I am an active participant in the Give Back Homes charity, helping build new homes for people in need. I believe housing is a human right, and I love giving back through an industry that has been so good to me.” WHAT HAVE BEEN YOUR PROUDEST MOMENTS DURING THE RECENT CRISIS? “My husband and I managed to organize our elopement wedding during the crisis, which was incredibly challenging and a roller coaster of emotions. But we got it done and had the most special day of my life. I even had time for a three-hour nap on my wedding day!””

MANHATTAN BEACH | 310-363-9871 | HOMESBYAMERICA.COM | DRE #01902672

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

KRISTIN EGAN, MD Owner, Kristin Egan, MD, FACS

r. Kristin Egan specializes in facial plastic surgery and otolaryngology. She earned her medical degree at Albert Einstein College of Medicine and completed a residency program at the University of California, San Francisco. Upon completion, she joined the staff of the school’s Department of Otolaryngology. After a fellowship in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery in New York, Dr. Egan opened her practice nine years ago. TELL US ABOUT YOUR WORK. “I am dual board-certified in otolaryngology head and neck surgery as well as facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. My practice incorporates my surgical skills with a focus on aesthetics and the desire for a more youthful and natural appearance. I am 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. 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 in Manhattan Beach for nine years and was a clinical instructor at UCSF before moving to Southern California.”

TELL US ABOUT BEING A FEMALE PLASTIC SURGEON. “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 new technologies and products on myself so I can better educate my patients about them.”

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR WORK AS A PLASTIC SURGEON? “It’s important to 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 CAN PATIENTS EXPECT WHEN THEY VISIT YOUR OFFICE? “I pride myself on taking the time to truly listen to my patients and find what is bothering them. As we age, gravity and sun damage take a toll on our skin and soft tissues. Patients desire a return to the characteristics associated with youth, to look more well-rested or simply to eliminate lines and wrinkles that bother them when they look in the mirror. There are both surgical and less invasive procedures to help achieve these goals. Discussion with each patient to find out his or her goals and desires allows me to better tailor a plan to achieve that.” WHAT CHALLENGES ARE SPECIFIC TO YOUR INDUSTRY? “The medical field is not amenable to working from home. I examine the ears, nose, throat and face, which is not possible over video. We have worked hard to stay open for patients during the crisis as non-COVID-19 emergencies continue to occur. We have continued to treat patients in this time of crisis in a safe and expedient manner.” WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU MADE DUE TO COVID-19? “We are allowing patients to remain in their cars until their appointment and complete more paperwork in the convenience of their own home. We are adhering to all CDC guidelines for cleaning between patients. All staff and patients are required to wear masks and wash hands upon entering the building.”

WHAT IS YOUR #1 PIECE OF ADVICE DURING THIS UNPRECEDENTED TIME? “I think we all need to come together as a community to protect everyone. Washing hands, social distancing and wearing masks will protect not only yourself but everyone in the community. Since there are no cures or vaccines yet, we need to take it one day at a time, each person doing our part.” WHAT TREATMENTS DO YOUR PATIENTS SEEK THE MOST? “Patients are increasingly requesting less invasive procedures with less recovery time and the ability to return to work quickly. More patients are turning to the multiple in-office services that can be done without general anesthesia or a long recovery period. I am currently one of a few physicians in the L.A. area offering the FDA-approved, noninvasive, laser-assisted facelift in my office.” WHAT SERVICE DO YOU RECOMMEND? “LazerLift 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. LazerLift 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. I am a leading innovator in minimally invasive procedures. For patients who want minimal recovery time and an in-office procedure without the need for general anesthesia to address their jowls and neck, LazerLift is the perfect option.”

2809 N. SEPULVEDA BLVD., MANHATTAN BEACH | 3711 LOMITA BLVD. #150, TORRANCE | 310-426-8415 | DRKRISTINEGAN.COM

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY ARNIL PABALAN

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

JENNIFER CARAS Realtor , Jennifer Caras Real Estate | Vista Sotheby’s International Realty ®

Los Angeles native, Jennifer Caras attended Marymount High School and continued her education at the University of California, Santa Barbara, where she graduated with a degree in psychology. In 2004 she began her career with South Bay Brokers, which became Vista Sotheby’s International Realty in 2015.

WHEN DID YOU FIRST CONSIDER WORKING IN YOUR INDUSTRY? “When I was younger, I was so intrigued with the details of homes that I initially wanted to be an architect. I have always been drawn to homes and the details and design behind them. Landing in real estate has been a perfect fit for me.”

WHAT IS A UNIQUE FEATURE OF YOUR BUSINESS? “A unique feature is that I am focused on working one-on-one with clients. This is the heart of my business. Despite the growth in my business, I want to be my clients’ point of contact and give guidance throughout the process. I believe it’s something they appreciate, given that 90% of my clients are referrals or repeat business. I get deeply involved in each escrow and each relationship. Although I have someone assisting me behind the scenes, adding others to the mix on the front line would change the nature of my business.”

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST PROFESSIONAL ACCOMPLISHMENT? “Last year I was the #2 Top Producing Agent at Vista Sotheby’s out of 250+ agents and the largest producer of Beach Cities sales, totaling $40 million of real estate last year. This year I am on track to exceed that.”

TELL US ABOUT A RECENT SUCCESS STORY. “I had clients in escrow on an extraordinary prime double walk street lot. Then COVID-19 hit. I had other escrows fall apart during this time, partly because panic and fear were initial reactions. This was an incredible journey as my clients kept focused and their eye on the prize of this rare opportunity. There was a lot of collaboration, and all parties involved— including the seller and the listing agent— were incredible to work with and stayed on task and committed to close this transaction. Communication and collaboration were key elements. My clients are so happy with their purchase; double walk street lots in an exceptional location are few and far between.”

WHAT CHALLENGES ARE SPECIFIC TO YOUR INDUSTRY? “The supply does not meet the demand. Despite the recent crisis, the South Bay market is on fire! There is a large pool of buyers and buyer needs and not enough inventory of properties to meet the demands. Hence when a property is priced appropriately and shows well, it is receiving multiple offers and going well over the list price.”

WHAT IS YOUR #1 PIECE OF ADVICE DURING THIS UNPRECEDENTED TIME? “Take nothing for granted—your health, your family, your loved ones, this beautiful South Bay we are so blessed to live in. Being grateful is a daily practice that energizes me.”

WHAT ARE YOU ESPECIALLY GRATEFUL FOR TODAY? “I am especially grateful for my family— they are my world—my husband, Chris, our children (CJ, Julianne and Grace), my incredible mom and our sweet lab, Woody. I lost my sister at a young age and more recently lost my father in May. Turning loss into life lessons has transformed me as I count my blessings and am committed to not sweating the small stuff!”

TELL US ABOUT YOUR SUPPORT SYSTEM. “My biggest support system is at home. My husband, Chris, encouraged me to get my real estate license in 2004 after a career in pharmaceuticals that was successful yet unfulfilling. Once I joined a brokerage, my heart was so much more into it right from the get-go. Being a developer and commercial broker, he also gets riddled with questions from me and is always there to review an inspection report or give valuable advice with his extensive experience in real estate. I truly couldn’t do my job without his incredible support and love.” HAS MOTHERHOOD MADE YOU A BETTER ENTREPRENEUR? “Hands down, YES! Motherhood is by far the toughest and most rewarding job all bundled together. In my job, it has made it easier for me to relate to family priorities and needs when families are looking for their next home or selling their current home. It has made me more flexible and understanding. Having your house on the market when you have children is no easy feat!” WHAT VACATION DESTINATION ARE YOU DREAMING OF THESE DAYS? “Greece! My husband is Greek, and we embarked on our first overseas vacation with our three children last summer. It exceeded all of our expectations. It was utterly glorious and the best family trip. It was so incredible that we had plans to go back this summer, so I am dreaming of it already for next summer!”

1144 HIGHLAND AVE., MANHATTAN BEACH | 310-367-9129 | INSTAGRAM: @JENNIFERCARASREALESTATE | DRE #01466213

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

STEPHANIE COCHRANE Owner, The Waste Less Shop

hile working full-time as a dental hygienist last year, Stephanie Cochrane decided to start The Waste Less Shop, which provides household cleaners and self-care products in bulk as an alternative to single-use items. Customers supported the store so much, Stephanie was able to make this her career. The Waste Less Shop’s mission is to reduce waste in the community and empower customers to lead healthy, sustainable lives. TELL US ABOUT A UNIQUE FEATURE OF YOUR BUSINESS. “We are a mission-driven company. Our goal is to help heal our planet through the education and empowerment of our customers. By providing affordable, sustainable, nontoxic and refillable household goods, we enable our customers to become champions of change within their own homes. Rather than throwing away a laundry detergent jug or dish soap container when it’s empty, our customers can bring them into our store to be refilled. We carry everything from skin cleanser crafted by an herbalist in Santa Cruz to glass cleaner made in L.A. We support female-owned businesses and uplift communities disproportionately affected by climate change and social injustice.” WHAT HAVE BEEN YOUR PROUDEST MOMENTS DURING THE RECENT CRISIS? “Early on I had no idea how long stay-athome orders would last or how severe things would become. I knew we had a responsibility to continue to provide essential products to our customers, but our model relied on foot traffic in our storefront. After working a couple of all-nighters, I redesigned our website and launched a home-delivery service to ensure at-risk customers could safely receive sanitizer and hand soap without leaving their homes. I am so proud of the tenacity and creativity my team has shown to survive and

thrive through what could have been the end of this newly created business.” WHAT ARE YOU GRATEFUL FOR TODAY? “I am so grateful for our supportive community. I started this business only one year ago with no business ownership experience—just a passion for our planet and an entrepreneurial spirit. The support and generosity of our community has helped us survive a global pandemic while enabling me to pursue my passion.” WHAT CHALLENGES ARE SPECIFIC TO YOUR INDUSTRY? “We are competing with mega-conglomerates that provide products to consumers in convenient plastic packages at prices that small businesses generally can’t compete with. We stock products that are made with high-quality, plant-based, organic ingredients that are thoughtfully produced by other small, female-owned businesses. Many of our products cost more up-front but are environmentally, ethically and materially superior to their single-use counterpart. We educate our customers on the long-term savings they will realize, but it’s not easy getting someone to give up convenience today for financial savings and a better planet tomorrow.” WHAT PROJECTS DO YOU SUPPORT TO HELP THOSE IN NEED? “We donate $1 from every sale to One Tree Planted. Their teams of volunteers work to reforest areas around the world affected by fire, deforestation and industrialization. We have shifted our plant sites to support rehabilitation in areas hit by recent disasters to help communities and wildlife reinhabit those locations. Since opening one year ago, we have planted more than 3,500 trees in California, Peru and Australia. I believe if we are consuming resources from our planet, we need to be doing something significant to replenish it as well.”

HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH THE NAME OF YOUR BUSINESS? “I wanted a brand name that reminded people that our goal is not perfection, just to be better. By gradually wasting less, we are creating an attainable pathway to a consumer society built for longevity and not reliant on constant consumption.” WHEN DID YOU FIRST CONSIDER WORKING IN YOUR INDUSTRY? “I started making small, sustainable swaps in my daily routine when I moved in with my now-fiancé a few years ago. His tiny El Porto apartment was not conducive to excess waste, and I couldn’t ignore the unnecessary trash that was accumulating. I had visited third-world countries that don’t have the waste management technology we do, so I had witnessed trash piled in the streets. But feeling that way in my own home was what compelled me to create change. I started making homemade nut milk and kombucha, switched to cloth instead of paper towels, and our grocery bill and recycling volume dropped drastically. The more changes I made, the more I realized that I was saving money while simultaneously reducing my impact on the environment. So I opened the store, and now I get to see those shifts happening every day.” TELL US ABOUT YOUR IDEAL DAY OFF. “Oh boy, give me a day in the woods and I am fully restored! I have always had a deep connection with our earth, but getting away from the concrete and cars and walking in the woods always reminds me just how incredibly healing and beautiful our planet is. Throw in an Aperol Spritz at the end of the day, and I am a happy girl.”

3515 HIGHLAND AVE., MANHATTAN BEACH | 424-390-1846 | THEWASTELESSSHOP.COM

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

MARINA ACCARDO Managing Principal, Accardo Real Estate Associates Co-Owner, M StudioHouse

ccardo Real Estate Associates (AREA) is a full-service real estate brokerage established in 2007 as Beach City Tony. Marina partnered with her husband and rebranded to AREA in 2015. She opened M StudioHouse in 2018, adding design and remodeling to the real estate firm. Marina, Tony and their team focus on both new construction and the reconditioning of existing luxury homes. They offer clients financing options for home improvements, staging, and corrective fit and finish challenges prior to marketing the home. TELL US ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND “I went to Queen’s University, one of Canada’s Ivy League schools. Elon Musk was leaving as I was entering; no one knew of him then, but today it is fun to say we went to the same school. Years later I attended FIDM in Los Angeles to satisfy my creative desire to design. I’ve been in high-volume sales and executive leadership since I graduated in 1999. My husband slowly pulled me into real estate as we recognized that our synergy would be greater than the sum of our separate efforts.” WHEN DID YOU FIRST CONSIDER WORKING IN THIS INDUSTRY? “My parents immigrated from Italy and spoke no English. My dad was a carpenter and made a career of remodeling tired homes and selling them as turnkey. One of my earliest childhood memories is being 4 or 5 years and driving around town looking for rundown homes. My mother seemed to be fearless. She would knock on any stranger’s door, and her charm and style immediately presented her with opportunities. My parents instilled in me a deep sense of authenticity. It was through watching them

work very hard for everything we had that I developed a strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. I understood that if I worked hard with grace and conviction, I could hold my head high and be successful.” IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU EMPOWER WOMEN TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS? “My photographer is a single mom and a female business owner. One of my favorite clothing stores in Redondo’s Riviera Village is female-owned and operated by a breast cancer survivor. As a mom of three, I recognize the challenges of being actively involved with your children and the need to provide for your family. I like to support those efforts. It is extremely important to have a voice. Trepidation is due to the overwhelming fear or self-criticism. We need to change the narrative for women. I try to model this daily—on my Instagram page, through our sales meetings or with my 11-year-old daughter. I hold myself to a high standard and stay true to who I am with the intention of other women feeling empowered and seeing all sides of me: authentic, strong, silly and vulnerable. Life is not perfect, nor should we present it as such. As a woman, I believe it’s OK to share the good and the not so glamorous, keeping it raw and real so others can relate.” HAS MOTHERHOOD MADE YOU A BETTER ENTREPRENEUR? “Motherhood is entrepreneurial. Starting a business is much like starting a family. It doesn’t come with an instruction guide, countless people throw advice at you, there’s never enough time or money, the first two years sleep is a luxury, you hang on to little victories. Before you know it, everything begins to fall into place, patterns become familiar and there is a firm place to stand. You realize that

even if you make small mistakes, they aren’t terminal, and tomorrow’s a new day.” WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU MADE DUE TO COVID-19? “As an entrepreneur, wife and a mother of three, I adapt quickly! To quote fellow Canadian Wayne Gretzky, ‘I skate to where the puck is going to be, not where it is.’ You need to anticipate the next move, whether it’s the milk that is about to be knocked over or adjusting your marketing plan. The puck is in technology, and COVID-19 has accelerated the need for technology in our daily lives and in the workplace. We have positioned ourselves as a tech-enabled brokerage, from marketing your home virtually to geo-targeting prospective buyers or using artificial intelligence to identify homes likely to sell in a particular neighborhood.” WHAT IS YOUR #1 PIECE OF ADVICE DURING THIS TIME? “Now more than ever, I cannot overemphasize the importance of staying well-grounded in your faith and staying in your lane (do not compare yourself to others). Be extra patient with your kids. Attitude is contagious, and they look to us as leaders. You never want to see the captain of the airplane panic, and neither do our children. Our character is built not only on the top of the mountains but also in the lowest of valleys. Your children are watching you; model what you want them to learn.”

Disclaimer: Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the state of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License #01991628. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified.

ACCARDOREALESTATE.COM

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY ZOOM THEORY PHOTOGRAPHY

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

MARY LOU SCHATAN Owner, Schatan Optical Gallery

n 1968 Mary Lou Schatan was asked to temporarily help out at the optical store next door to her husband’s shoe business. She ended up working at Ballard Optical in Redondo Beach for 20 years, learning the trade. In 1988 she opened a store of her own, Schatan Optical Gallery, in Torrance. Today Mary Lou is a Master Optician with more than 50 years of experience. She carries exclusive European collections, Kawasaki eyewear from Japan and designs her own unique rimless eyewear. HOW DOES SCHATAN OPTICAL GALLERY DIFFER FROM OTHER OPTICAL STORES? “When you visit me, it is a one-on-one experience with an award-winning eyewear consultant. I care how you appear in your glasses. I will not allow myself to sell you a pair of glasses that look less than fabulous on you. It won’t matter what you are wearing because your glasses will always look great on you! I am a master at finding frames that fit you perfectly. You will find there are many styles that will enhance your lifestyle.” TAKE A RISK OR PLAY IT SAFE IN BUSINESS? “I am a risk-taker at heart, and my biggest risk in life was starting my business. I have never been happier.”

WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU MADE DUE TO COVID-19? “COVID-19 changed my business plan completely! I had to let my faithful employees go. I was about to go bankrupt and needed to work by myself to ensure my business survived. I am doing well working one-onone with customers, as I did long ago. I have excellent health, and my only responsibility is my business. I love my location and feel content in Hillside Village. My salon is changing

its look little by little into a new concept that will be better than ever. My frames are easily sanitized, and my glass tabletops are perfectly clean. I have more time to spend with each client and enough time in the day to keep the records up-to-date.” WHAT CHALLENGES ARE SPECIFIC TO YOUR INDUSTRY? “My biggest challenge today, as always, is quality. Eyewear insurance is killing this. Thankfully, new manufacturers are addressing the desire for quality. My clients know my prices are high but worth the investment. I guarantee satisfaction, or I help you choose a replacement. My reputation relies on your satisfaction.” WHAT IS YOUR #1 PIECE OF ADVICE DURING THIS UNPRECEDENTED TIME? “My #1 piece of advice to others is my mother’s motto: It’s a good life if you don’t let it get you down!” WHAT ARE YOU ESPECIALLY GRATEFUL FOR TODAY? “I am grateful that I continue to be successful in my profession and that my clients value my knowledge and expertise in the eyewear they purchase from me.” TELL US ABOUT YOUR IDEAL DAY OFF. “My ideal day off is staying at home and rearranging all the furniture I have accumulated over the years.” IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU EMPOWER WOMEN TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS? “I tell them how I started my business! I let them know the tools and information they can utilize from the Small Business Association. It is also great to discuss how time-consuming

it can be to own a successful business, but also how rewarding it is when are passionate about what you do.” HAS MOTHERHOOD MADE YOU A BETTER ENTREPRENEUR? “I never thought of myself as the perfect mother, but my son Matt ‘Handyman’ Schatan is the perfect son—reliable, strong, respected as a businessman, and always full of advice when business overwhelms me. He is my rock!” WHAT PROJECTS DO YOU SUPPORT TO HELP THOSE IN NEED?” “I encourage my clients to donate their beautiful glasses they no longer use. I clean them up and send them to VSP’s Eyes of Hope, which provides eyewear to people in need around the world.” WHAT HAVE BEEN YOUR PROUDEST MOMENTS DURING THE RECENT CRISIS? “My proudest moments during the COVID19 crisis—other than keeping my business afloat—were spending quality time with my granddaughters, Brittany (19) and Courtney (16). I asked them to dress up and come to Schatan Optical Gallery to eat a catered dinner by nearby restaurant Primo. I find it so important to reassure my granddaughters that this hard time will pass, just like it did with the Great Depression. It was a perfect evening to remember forever.” HAVE YOUR HOURS CHANGED DURING COVID-19? “My new hours are appointment only, and I am available from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and Saturdays by request.”

24580 HAWTHORNE BLVD., TORRANCE | 310-378-3936 | 310-920-9565 | SCHATANOPTICALGALLERY.COM

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

MAYHA PATEL, DO, FAAD & CHRISTINE PETTI, MD, FACS California Skin Institute

alifornia Skin Institute–Skypark’s team consists of board-certified dermatologists and a plastic surgeon who are experienced in a wide range of advanced services including medical dermatology, cosmetic dermatology and aesthetic plastic surgery. Board-certified cosmetic and medical dermatologist Mayha Patel, DO, has been practicing for six years. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology and biology from the University of California, Davis, and completed her dermatology residency at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center. Her research has focused on acne, psoriasis, eczema and basal cell carcinoma, and she is the author of numerous articles and book chapters in scientific literature. Christine Petti, MD, is an aesthetic plastic surgeon who has worked in the medical field since 1988. She attended medical school at Georgetown University and the Medical College of Pennsylvania and completed residencies in general surgery and in plastic and reconstructive surgery. Dr. Petti had a solo practice of plastic surgery in the South Bay for 30 years and joined California Skin Institute in May 2020. WHAT IS YOUR SPECIALTY SERVICE? Dr. Petti: “I specialize in aesthetic plastic surgery of the face, neck, breast and body contouring, as well as laser surgery and nonsurgical treatments including Smartlipo, CoolPeel, SmartSkin, Vivace radiofrequency microneedling, laser hair removal and other advanced aesthetic injection services. I have undergone plastic surgery myself, and I can relate to what my patients are going through. I grew up with humble beginnings in a steel mill town near Pittsburgh, which makes me very approachable, authentic, nurturing and grateful. I do have a good eye for aesthetic beauty and love plastic surgery—and it shows.

Patients feel the vibe and remain with my practice for decades.” Dr. Patel: “My expertise includes diseases of the skin, hair and nails, as well as surgical and cosmetic procedures such as Botox, fillers, microneedling, Kybella and a variety of lasers to suit each patient’s unique cosmetic concerns. I evaluate the body as a whole unit and diagnose with the notion that all things are connected and influence each other. This is imperative to understand the etiology behind a disorder or disease. Everyone’s face is naturally asymmetrical; the goal with facial sculpting is not perfect symmetry but rather improving and defining the natural angles of the face.” WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU MADE DUE TO COVID-19? Dr. Patel: “COVID-19 has changed many things, particularly the way we see patients on a regular daily routine. All patients are required to wear a mask and have their temperatures checked. We are taking proper precautions to protect our staff and patients daily. We remind patients to wash their hands and sanitize before adjusting their mask, and to ensure their mask is oriented correctly.” Dr. Petti: “I was fortunate to have an opportunity to end my solo private practice and join California Skin Institute during COVID-19. My private plastic surgery practice specializes exclusively in aesthetic plastic surgery. Due to the orders of our governor, I was not able to perform elective cosmetic surgery for more than two months. This time allowed me to transition my practice and patients to a new office and structure. I kept my two key employees with me and financially supported them entirely during the shutdown period. We were all in this together, and we united to restart the practice.”

WHAT IS YOUR #1 PIECE OF ADVICE DURING THIS UNPRECEDENTED TIME? Dr. Petti: “Make it Happen—MIH. Whatever you need to get through each day, go forward, jump the hurdles, nourish, exercise and rest, preparing yourself for the next day’s race—MIH. Make each day better for all of us who share this beautiful America and this precious earth.” Dr. Patel: “Focus on the future, try to remain hopeful about the unknown and motivated about what is to come from all the havoc we are feeling in this unprecedented time.” TELL US ABOUT THE HEROES ON YOUR TEAM AT CALIFORNIA SKIN INSTITUTE. Dr. Petti: “The heroes on my team are our patient coordinators, surgery schedulers and my dedicated manager. They service patients at the office and are dedicated to representing me at all times, even when I am in the OR for days. Also of great importance are the RNs, surgical technicians and anesthesiologists at our surgery center in Torrance. They are my essential team that help me execute the best results for my patients with only customized care.” WHAT ARE YOU GRATEFUL FOR? Dr. Patel: “I am especially grateful to be able to work in a specialty that I truly have a passion for and love every part of. I feel privileged to wake up every day feeling excited about going to work and the endless new adventures in my career that await me. I am so thankful for my lovely patients and my loving husband and family.”

23451 MADISON ST., BUILDING 7, SUITE 330, TORRANCE | 310-375-9994 | TORRANCESKYPARK.CALIFORNIASKININSTITUTE.COM

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

JEANEVRA CALHOUN Owner, Ampersand Development

mpersand Development, founded by Jeanevra Calhoun in 2013, is a full-service design-build firm with in-house designers and general contractors who work together to complete custom remodels and new construction builds. Jeanevra worked in public relations and real estate before pivoting to the construction industry. TELL US ABOUT A UNIQUE FEATURE OF YOUR BUSINESS. “Ampersand Development is founded on transparency, integrity and creative collaboration. Our complete design-build approach unites efficiency and innovation. Ampersand is based on combining construction management and design aesthetics so homeowners can relish a process that results in greater confidence, greater creative choice and homes of enduring craftsmanship.” HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH THE NAME OF YOUR BUSINESS? “Ampersand—the & symbol—has an allinclusive connotation, which aligns with our full-service approach to all phases of the design-build process.” WHAT CHALLENGES ARE SPECIFIC TO YOUR INDUSTRY? “Letting go of a vision or original idea can be trying at times. Often we get stuck on a path when it’s comfortable, but construction inevitably consists of change. I sometimes find it challenging when I want a concept to work but find that we have to adjust for unforeseen circumstances. It’s important to be able to adapt and transform preliminary ideas into something equally beautiful. Allowing yourself to be uncomfortable and find growth in difficulty is essential to success.”

TELL US ABOUT THE HEROES ON YOUR TEAM. “Collaboration is pertinent to the construction process. Everyone involved is part of a team on any job—designers, contractors, tradesmen and, of course, the clients! The heroes are the ones who are open to the concept of shared responsibility and compassionate collaboration. When implementing these simple concepts of human interaction, everyone can be a hero on our team.” IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU EMPOWER OTHER WOMEN TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS? “I always love collaborating with other women who are looking to learn more about the construction business … or any business! The importance of positive mentorship is something I advocate strongly and something I wish I had when I first started out. Starting a new company or entering the unknown is undeniably intimidating; doubts arise, and insecurities surface. Providing a platform for an open exchange of ideas can help infuse confidence in other people. I have some direct involvement as far as intern shadowing and mentorship meetings, but in the end, helping others build confidence to pursue their own goals and dreams is something we all can do to support each other.” TELL US ABOUT YOUR SUPPORT SYSTEM. “Support can come in many forms. Everyone has something to offer if you take the time to listen. For me, family and friends have always been a pillar, but I can’t emphasize enough how imperative it was for me to find a willing and experienced mentor when creating my business. I am a strong believer in aligning myself with people I can learn from regardless of industry or expertise. I’m thankful for the positive role models I have had along the way who have inspired me to achieve what I have thus far.”

TAKE A RISK OR PLAY IT SAFE IN BUSINESS? “There is a time and place for both! I truly believe in building a strong foundation to support the framework for creative risk. Rather than building on uncertainty, making good decisions early on while highlighting personal strengths is essential to developing a business. These foundational pillars could be a bulletproof administrative system, a reliable team or strong client relationships. Whatever strengths you can apply to your foundation will allow you the freedom to take the creative risks that set a project above and beyond.” WHAT ARE YOU ESPECIALLY GRATEFUL FOR TODAY? “I am grateful to be able to continue working during this strange time of COVID-19. As more people are spending time at home, I feel lucky that I can contribute to creating a space that makes this time at home more enjoyable.” WHAT IS YOUR #1 PIECE OF ADVICE DURING THIS UNPRECEDENTED TIME? “It’s hard not to get caught in the tornado of uncertainty and chaos, and many may feel like they aren’t as productive as they ‘should be’ right now. But appreciating small victories helps me remain positive. I try to stay away from thinking about what I ‘should’ be doing and try to stay present and find opportunity in what is.” DESCRIBE YOUR IDEAL DAY OFF. “In my spare time, I enjoy walking down to the Riviera Village with my new dog, Rambo, to grab brunch with friends or stroll the Esplanade. I also practice yoga and enjoy paddleboarding. The South Bay is such a beautiful place with so much to offer, and I am happy to be here in any capacity.”

23661 TELO AVE., TORRANCE | 424-634-8238 | AMPERSANDDEVELOPMENT.COM

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

DR. BITA DAVOODIAN Owner, Bita Davoodian, DDS, Inc.

r. Bita Davoodian graduated from UCLA and attended dental school at the University of the Pacific in San Francisco. She has been a clinical instructor at UCLA Dental School for the past seven years, where she teaches future dentists. Born in Southern California and raised in the South Bay, Dr. Davoodian has worked in dentistry for about 20 years. She is a member of the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association, the American Association of Dental Sleep Medicine and the Western Los Angeles Dental Society.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR PRACTICE. “I am dedicated to creating beautiful, longlasting smiles and maintaining the oral health of my patients. I strive to deliver the highest quality general, restorative and cosmetic dental care in a warm atmosphere with the utmost kindness and respect. I see a wide range of patients including seniors, adults and children. I truly believe that preventive care and education are the two most important aspects of optimal dental health. Patients should know that we love dentistry. We address their needs in a comfortable environment, giving them a realistic and comprehensive treatment plan based on decisions we make together. Most importantly, we stay abreast of new developments and participate in continuing education in order to provide patient care at the highest standards.” WHAT IS YOUR DRIVING FORCE? “Every day I strive for my patients to regain or expand the confidence in their teeth and smile. Equally important is providing a personalized treatment plan that the patient can fully understand and agree to with a caring, genuine and professional staff. My goal is for each patient to walk out of my office knowing they have a dentist who is dedicated to performing what is necessary for them to maintain a healthy and beautiful smile.”

HOW DO YOU EMPATHIZE WITH YOUR CUSTOMER IN ORDER TO BUILD TRUST? “Quality care really begins with trust. I aim to understand and identify with my patients in order to provide a positive experience. As my patient, you can expect clear treatment options, honesty, efficiency and quality.” WHAT SHOULD PARENTS KNOW ABOUT THEIR CHILD’S DENTAL HEALTH? “The foundation for healthy permanent teeth is developed between the ages of 1 and 5. A healthy diet combined with proper brushing and flossing decreases cavities in children. The fewer cavities in baby teeth, the lower the risk of developing cavities in permanent teeth. Therefore it is crucial to establish a proper daily oral hygiene routine as early in life as possible to help ensure the development of strong and healthy teeth.” WHAT FEEDBACK DO YOU GET FROM YOUR YOUNGEST CUSTOMERS? “The best feedback I have received was from an 8-year-old patient when she told me that the procedure was so gentle and she did not feel a thing. She said she had found her new dentist and she couldn’t wait to come back because she loved being in my office. It was so rewarding to have such a young patient enthusiastic about the health of her teeth and visiting a dentist—especially after hearing later about her unpleasant dental experiences in the past.” WHAT ARE SOME WAYS YOU PROVIDE TOP-NOTCH CUSTOMER SERVICE? “Patients constantly express how comfortable they feel from the moment they walk into the office to the time they leave. I do this by treating all my patients like family. As a team we make sure to spend as much time with our patients as they need to understand the treatment and feel comfortable and relaxed. I perform every treatment with a steady and

gentle touch, combined with the most modern technology and practices to ensure our patients have the best care possible.” WHAT DO YOUR PATIENTS LIKE BEST ABOUT YOU? “Patients love that we can provide a full range of dental treatment including preventive, family and cosmetic dentistry. We always make sure that we have an appointment to see our patients and are always on call for emergencies. We assure comfort by listening to our patients and taking the time to answer all of their questions prior to any dental procedure.” TELL US SOMETHING UNIQUE ABOUT YOUR PRACTICE. “In addition to cosmetic dentistry and fullmouth rehabilitation, I also address patients’ overall health, including airway and TMJ evaluation. I am a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine and recognized for working hand in hand with physicians to treat patients with oral appliances for sleep apnea.” WHY IS DENTISTRY A GOOD CAREER PATH FOR WOMEN? “The structure of the dental profession provides unique opportunities to exercise a high degree of autonomy and flexibility. This ultimately allows females to be able to be mothers and wives as well as excellent dentists and business owners.”

1959 KINGSDALE AVE., SUITE 202, REDONDO BEACH | 310-793-1000 | DRDAVOODIAN.COM

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

KATHY MORRIS & ROBIN SMITH Realtors , Compass ®

real estate/sister-in-law duo since 2015, Kathy Morris and Robin Smith have quite different professional backgrounds. Kathy graduated with a degree in communication disorders from UMass Amherst. She then moved back to her hometown of Redondo Beach and bought her first property at the age of 23. Five years later she turned her love of real estate into a career. Robin’s background was in health care. From a small town in Northern California, she moved south to attend USC. She got her real estate license in 2015, and the two have been business partners ever since. WHAT HAVE BEEN YOUR PROUDEST MOMENTS DURING THE RECENT CRISIS? “At the beginning of the pandemic, there was so much uncertainty and many deals were falling apart. By listening to all of the concerns and fears and keeping the channels of communication between everyone involved open and calm, we were able to keep our clients and all parties working together. We are proud to have closed six transactions since the start of COVID-19, and we have several more we are currently working on.” TELL US ABOUT THE HEROES ON YOUR TEAM. “Our husbands and kids are the heroes of our team, hands-down. Not only do they motivate us to be at the top of our game in all aspects of our work and our personal lives, but they understand the sacrifice of time that is necessary when running a successful business. We couldn’t do it without their support.” TELL US ABOUT A RECENT SUCCESS STORY IN YOUR BUSINESS. “In the height of the pandemic, our clients were given notice to move out of the home they had been renting. They were

heartbroken and didn’t want to leave the neighborhood or move their daughters out of the school district. There were no rentals available, and they didn’t think they could buy. We worked tirelessly to get them qualified and ended up beating multiple offers to buy an amazing house on the same street!” HOW WOULD YOUR CLIENTS DESCRIBE WHAT YOU DO? “They would tell you we genuinely care about them and their interests. One of our clients recently wrote: ‘Kathy and Robin are THE BEST! We presented them with a unique set of challenges that might discourage other agents. I think the best way to put this is: They are on the ball. And very organized, friendly, super easy to work with, professional, well-connected.’” HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH YOUR MOTTO “HUSTLE AND HEART”? “We were placing an ad in the Redondo Union High School football program and were looking up football quotes to try to be clever. We came across ‘hustle and heart,’ and instantly it resonated with us. We work tirelessly for our buyers and sellers because we are passionate about real estate and about them. The home sales and purchases we handle are deeply personal and important to the people we work with on all sides of the deal.” WHAT CHALLENGES ARE SPECIFIC TO YOUR INDUSTRY? “Being someone’s trusted real estate consultant is an around-the-clock job. There are so many time-sensitive issues and huge emotional roller coasters to navigate during a home purchase or sale. We are always striving to take exceptional care of our clients. In every transaction, there is something new to learn. We have to think on our toes and

problem-solve all the time. It’s helpful that we have each other as sounding boards. We believe that as long as we are acting with integrity, we can’t go wrong.” WHAT ARE YOU ESPECIALLY GRATEFUL FOR TODAY? “We are so grateful to have each other! It’s not every day that you find a business partner (not to mention family member) you can work with day in and day out and not drive each other crazy! We trust each other completely, and our personalities and different strengths complement each other perfectly.” HAS MOTHERHOOD MADE YOU BOTH BETTER ENTREPRENEURS? “Having kids has taught us both how to multitask very well. We are motivated by the fact that we want to be strong role models for our children and teach them the value of hard work and perseverance.” WHAT VACATION DESTINATION ARE YOU DREAMING OF THESE DAYS? Kathy: “Costa Rica is our magical place where we unplug and rejuvenate away from the energy of our busy lives. We have visited every year for the past six years and are very much missing our usual summer getaway this year.” Robin: “Kauai—with warm, sandy beaches on one side and the tropical jungle on the other. We love a good balance of adventure and relaxation. I have an active husband and two busy boys; having something for all of us to do is important for a dreamy vacation.”

310-902-1121 (KATHY) | 213-447-2668 (ROBIN) | KATHYANDROBIN.COM | DRE #01745500 (KATHY), #01989112 (ROBIN)

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

LINDSAY WANDZILAK Founder/CEO, The Daily with Lindsay

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS. “The Daily with Lindsay is unique from other programs, workouts and services in a couple ways. First, we provide a 24-hour concierge service to our clients. All members of The Daily receive one-on-one mentoring from empathetic, attentive coaches who build movement and nutrition programs designed around clients’ day-to-day lifestyles. They give clients a friendly level of accountability so they can build good nutrition and movement habits for long-term results. Secondly, all members of The Daily benefit from an invaluable community and support system. When clients join the Daily, they not only get a coach but also join a social group of like-minded and passionate clientele who are all on a journey to become the best versions of themselves.” DESCRIBE A DAY IN THE LIFE ON THE DAILY. “Every client is different, but there are a few favorite elements that all clients appreciate and practice daily. These include morning motivational texts, morning movement, ample hydration, 24/7 advice on restaurant orders or recipes, online at-home workouts and the fact that no food or drink is off-limits. We encourage our clients to live balanced lives, and sometimes that includes a cookie or two!”

HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH THE NAME OF YOUR BUSINESS? “When I was designing the program, I realized that consistency is key for everything. Everyday habits can set clients up for success. Important things in life need to be worked on every day, and your physical body can and should be prioritized the same way.” WHAT ARE YOU ESPECIALLY GRATEFUL FOR TODAY? “The Daily just turned 1, and I am so grateful for having a year in business where we’ve touched and changed lives for the better.” IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU EMPOWER OTHER WOMEN TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS? “Since The Daily’s start right here in South Bay, coaches have been helping empower entrepreneurial women. We’ve helped them feel their best and take care of their bodies inside and out while enjoying a busy career, a new marriage or motherhood. We are planning to launch a program spotlighting entrepreneurial clients in September. Members will have opportunities for special access to womenowned brands and professionals and will receive mentorship and networking opportunities within The Daily community.” HAS MOTHERHOOD MADE YOU A BETTER ENTREPRENEUR? “It definitely has. My first and most important job is being a mom. While some may think that this means living by your kids’ schedules and teaching them lessons on being an adult, I like to additionally fulfill this role daily by serving as a model for my children. I live by example, so they know that building something from the ground up is possible, empowering and worth the effort. My lifestyle is an excellent model of happiness that I want them to know they can have too.”

TELL US ABOUT YOUR SUPPORT SYSTEM. “The Daily team is an amazing group of empowering women who support me daily! I’d love to give a huge shout-out to Lori Ludlow, Shelby Wolff, Mackenzie Roesti, Laura Sonn, Alisa Fishman and Aspen Roca. They motivate our clients—and me—every day! Also, my husband and kids inspire me to be my best self. My family shaped my entrepreneurial drive and my commitment to health. They encouraged me to take chances and dive into starting my own business.” WHAT IS YOUR #1 PIECE OF ADVICE DURING THIS UNPRECEDENTED TIME? “Creating a daily routine brings some sense of normalcy. Scheduling time each day to stay virtually connected to positive people and take care of your body is one of the few things we can control and find comfort in right now.” TELL US ABOUT SOME RECENT SUCCESS STORIES. “We appreciate that success has different meaning for different people. One client came to me saying she wanted to try out The Daily, but she did not enjoy running. Her body didn’t like it, and it hurt. We listened and respected her position, and instead we encouraged her to walk. After a few months of walking, she built up her fitness, dropped some weight and wanted to try running. She just completed a half-marathon! Another client started The Daily in January with a goal of being bathing suit-ready by her daughter’s June beach birthday party. That summer our client confidently wore a bathing suit while hosting the party, and she thrilled her daughter by swimming in the ocean with her for the first time ever.”

2001 OAK AVE., MANHATTAN BEACH | 949-296-5856 | MAMAYOUSWEATY.COM/THE-DAILY

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY MEGHAN GARCIA, PRINTS AND PETALS

he Daily is a concierge wellness service centered on customized daily coaching, accountability, movement and nutrition. Owner Lindsay Wandzilak started her business in 2019 and has been immersed in fitness and wellness her entire life. She ran cross-country at the University of Southern California and later became a National Academy of Sports Medicine-certified trainer and nutritionist.

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

GRETCHEN TIERNAN & MEGAN RICHARDSON Owners, Sand Spa & Polish Nail Boutique

and Spa, founded by Megan Richardson and Gretchen Tiernan in 2014, specializes in various self-care services such as massage, facials, skin care, waxing and nail care. Since opening their initial location, they have launched two additional locations (Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach) and will open another in West Hollywood next spring. WHAT IS THE #1 WAY YOU SUPPORT YOUR CLIENTS? “One of our main pillars at Sand Spa is customer service. We value where you spend your time and your money. We stand for diversity, equality and inclusion. Every member of our staff customizes the experience to the client’s liking. We create self-care havens that become a part of your lifestyle. We don’t just do one thing, because neither do you. We are here to serve you.” HOW HAS HAVING A COACH OR MENTOR INFLUENCED YOUR SUCCESS? “We have committed to always learning and growing. We have a number of mentors who help us in different aspects of our lives. We know that for our businesses to be their best, we have to be our best. Since we are partners in life and in business, we found it extremely important to make sure we are nurturing and balancing our home life as well as our work life. We have learned the importance of having very good communication, setting goals and embracing our own individuality. We invest in ourselves just like we invest in our businesses. Keeping constant contact with our mentors is one of the best choices we can continue to make as we continue to grow.”

WHICH PERSONALITY TRAITS ARE MOST IMPORTANT TO BE SUCCESSFUL IN YOUR FIELD? “Our advice to entrepreneurs—especially young ones—is to try as many new things as possible and fail over and over again. Nothing in your business plan will go as planned. Be quick on your feet and stay resilient. Be willing to change direction. Your story is in your try, your ability to not quit, your willingness to show up and put everything you have on the line each day. Those are the ones that find success.” HOW DO YOU COMBAT THE FEAR OF MAKING WRONG DECISIONS FROM DAY TO DAY? “A lot of times the fear of not doing something scares us more than the fear of making the wrong decision or even failing at something. We are always striving to grow, improve and learn more on our entrepreneurial journey. We always weigh the pros and cons of each situation or decision. When we make a decision, we commit to it. But if that decision ends up failing, we learn from it and quickly pivot.” BEYOND SAND SPA, WHAT OTHER PROJECTS ARE YOU WORKING ON? “We have a line of products we are working on and cannot wait to share them with you. We can’t give too many details but are excited to share those soon. We are also working on an app that should launch this winter. We are excited to show how diverse we are in our entrepreneurship journey. It’s a huge project we have been working on for more than four years.”

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHER COUPLES WHO WANT TO WORK TOGETHER ON A BUSINESS ENDEAVOR? Gretchen: “Working as a couple has been rewarding and demanding. We both have different strengths and learned early on how to communicate effectively. We know when we need to leave work at the door. Creating boundaries for our relationship and taking the time to continually learn about each other has been an area where we choose to spend a lot of time. When we are at work we are working, and when we aren’t at work we are working on our relationship. The advice I would give couples who want to work together is that you have to work at what you want—in business and in life. Create defined roles, have your priorities straight and never forget what brought you together.” Megan: “The best advice I could give someone is to always work on your foundation. A lot of people say you can’t have it all—a loving relationship and success. I disagree with that. Gretchen and I choose to always work on our relationship—our foundation—and without a doubt that drives the success of our businesses.” IS RISK-TAKING USUALLY WORTH THE REWARD? “Brené Brown said, ‘Daring greatly isn’t about winning or losing. It’s about courage. The willingness to jump, to put yourself on the line, to push yourself to the point of uncertainty already makes you that much braver.’ For this reason, we will always stand on the side of the risk-takers.”

3408 HIGHLAND AVE., MANHATTAN BEACH | 310-921-8231 3219 HIGHLAND AVE., MANHATTAN BEACH | 310-79-NAILS 327 PIER AVE., HERMOSA BEACH | 310-318-0176 SANDSPAMB.COM

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

ALISON CLAY-DUBOFF President, Salty Water Properties, Inc. | RE/MAX Estate Properties

lison Clay-Duboff has worked in real estate for more than 14 years. She studied at George Washington University and the American University in Paris and has lived in the U.K., St. Barts, France, Sweden and Saudi Arabia. Alison and her husband, Ken Duboff, operate Salty Water Properties, Inc. as part of RE/MAX Estate Properties in Manhattan Beach. As concierge of client services, Ken interfaces with clients. Alison and Ken give back to the community by supporting the Beach Life Festival, the Children’s Miracle Network, Carson Animal Shelter, the elderly and various other organizations. WHO ARE SOME WOMEN YOU ADMIRE? “A name or a recognizable face doesn’t matter. It’s the everyday female hero who works hard to support her dreams, her goals, her family and other women.” WHAT CHALLENGES ARE SPECIFIC TO YOUR INDUSTRY? “Even during the time of COVID-19, consumers can be easily led astray by technology and automation, but nothing can take the place of a dedicated Realtor. The humanity, negotiation skills, navigation through disclosures and knowledge of the local area—there is no shortcut.” WHAT SHOULD WOMEN BE DOING TO BETTER ADVANCE THEIR CAREERS? “Acknowledging their power and their worth— first to themselves and then to others. We are all CEOs of our own lives, bodies and businesses. Women have to recognize and value the role they play, especially in supporting other women to achieve their goals.” WHEN DID YOU FIRST CONSIDER WORKING IN REAL ESTATE? “When I lived in Paris after I attended university, I assisted expats in finding housing. That was the moment of germination for me. I matched professionals who were relocating

to Paris with an apartment that mirrored their personalities, locational requirements and budget. Paris is my second home, and for the expats it often was an unknown city. My role was to navigate through to achieve a perfect lifestyle fit for them.” HOW DO YOU COMBAT THE FEAR OF MAKING WRONG DECISIONS DAY TO DAY? “I don’t allow fear to impact my decisionmaking. I’m guided by information and asking for help from other professionals.” IS RISK-TAKING WORTH THE REWARD? “It’s all about balance. Life is about weighing what is actually being risked.” WHICH PERSONALITY TRAITS ARE MOST IMPORTANT FOR SUCCESS IN YOUR FIELD? “The ability to listen, integrity, empathy and generosity of spirit. Also ethics, compassion and education are important for success in any field.” HOW DO YOU ENSURE THAT YOUR TEAM PERFORMS AT THE TOP OF THEIR GAME? “I hold my extended team to the same standards I set for myself.” WHAT IS THE BIGGEST MISTAKE YOU’VE MADE PROFESSIONALLY? “Not getting into the business sooner. I have value that can be shared to better other people’s lives.” HOW HAS HAVING A MENTOR INFLUENCED YOUR PROFESSIONAL SUCCESS? “Life and business are about growth. I seek to improve, to broaden my reach and to acquire skills that are yet to be discovered from many different avenues.” DESCRIBE YOUR PROFESSION. “I have to quote Marc Davison of 1000watt, who describes my profession perfectly: ‘Buying and selling a home is not just complex. It consumes the totality of what it is to

be a human being: rationality and emotion, intuition and logic, joy and loss. The CrockPot of psychic stew that simmers during a transaction requires a skilled hand throttling the heat.’” HOW HAVE YOU HELPED CLIENTS DURING THE COVID-19 CRISIS? “A Redondo Beach client recently said, ‘Some thought we were crazy. Some thought we were brilliant. But we decided to sell and buy a home right as COVID-19 was taking off. Going with Alison as our Realtor was the best decision we made. She navigated the constantly changing rules of COVID-19 like a champ. I cannot recommend Alison enough after all she did for us during these unprecedented times.’ A Manhattan Beach client recently shared, ‘Alison Clay-Duboff … or ACD ... or more appropriately, the Attention Clients Deserve! Alison is an exceptional real estate advisor with a combination of responsiveness, attention to detail, empathy and business smarts that make her stand out in her industry. Alison had our home under contract on the day of the brokers open and at our price. But more impressive was how she held the transaction together in March/April 2020, with a unique knack for defusing seller and buyer emotions and structuring (or adjusting as needed) a deal to satisfy all parties— keeping everyone at the table. Alison is best in class, and I recommend her without hesitation or reservation.” WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF YOUR DAY? “Journaling about my gratitude illuminates my day with huge smiles.” WHY DID YOU MOVE TO THIS AREA? “Love. Isn’t it often about love? Love at first sight does happen. Cupid’s arrow pierced my heart when I was living on the Westside with my daughter. Almost 20 years ago, Ken brought me to South Redondo. It was magical, and I fell in love with the South Bay.”

1040 MANHATTAN BEACH BLVD., MANHATTAN BEACH | 310-200-3037 | ALISONISREALESTATE.COM | DRE #01786922

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

CAMMY NGUYEN

ammy Nguyen has been a licensed cosmetologist and nail technician for more than two decades. She specializes in lash artistry, cosmetics and tattooing and carries many eyelash and other beauty products for sale on her website. Cammy is also a beauty industry trainer and social media influencer. She launched her eponymous beauty brand, Cammy Nguyen LLC, in August 2019. TAKE A RISK OR PLAY IT SAFE ? “Always take the risk. In my business, I go all in. I believe in myself and my vision, so I always take the risk.”

WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU MADE DUE TO COVID-19? “COVID-19 took all of us by storm, and let’s be honest, it wasn’t easy—like a lot of companies. From potentially having to close operations entirely when the California state mandate was in effect to pivoting and providing masks to those in need, COVID-19 has been a lesson in adaptation for my team and me. The moral of the story is: adapt, adapt, adapt.” WHAT HAVE BEEN YOUR PROUDEST MOMENTS DURING THE RECENT CRISIS? “When COVID-19 hit, my business was immediately at risk. It was a scary time for me, my company and my employees. Lash technicians were not allowed to operate. As you can imagine, this caused a decline in sales. I had to adapt and find a way to keep my company and my dream alive. I became an outlet for COVID-19 essential items. Not only did this help me ensure my employees were going to get paid, but it also allowed me to use part of the proceeds to donate masks to our local doctors’ offices

and hospitals and essential workers. It was a great feeling to know that even if I didn’t have money to pay myself, my employees and community were taken care of.” WHAT IS YOUR #1 PIECE OF ADVICE DURING THIS UNPRECEDENTED TIME? “We all know times are tough. We also know that the world we knew pre-COVID-19 will never be the same. So my advice to everyone is: No matter what, don’t give up on your dream. You have to work smarter, harder and safer right now to achieve your goal. If you need startup capital and your Chanel bag is in the closet, SELL THAT SHIT! Material possessions are cool and all, but you can always get more of them when your business is successful.” HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH THE NAME OF YOUR BUSINESS? “I am very hands-on in developing my products; I use each one of them myself. So when I was searching for a company name, I wanted something to instill trust in my future customers. I decided if they trusted me as an artist, they would trust my company. That’s why I decided to use my name for my business, Cammy Nguyen LLC. You best believe that if I put my name on something, it’s going to be the best!” WHAT ARE YOU ESPECIALLY GRATEFUL FOR TODAY? “I’m especially grateful for my new company being 1 year old. Celebrating this is has been such an empowering moment. I went through so much with my past businesses; I’m forever grateful for being able to create something entirely mine.”

WHAT CHALLENGES ARE SPECIFIC TO YOUR INDUSTRY? “Unfortunately, during these times my industry has been affected tremendously. I can’t imagine what lash technicians are going through. Local mandates are always changing, and the uncertainty of when they will be able to work again must be extremely unsettling. Right now the biggest challenge I am facing is how to help spread positivity in this industry. I try to help as much as possible, so I am trying to create content that will educate my industry and hopefully bring a smile to their faces. I also have been holding various sales and even selling some of my products at cost to help lower the expenses lash technicians go through. It hasn’t been easy for my company, but we are getting through this.” TELL US ABOUT YOUR SUPPORT SYSTEM. “I love my support system. I don’t tell them enough, but they mean the world to me. Without them, my company wouldn’t survive. My right-hand ladies, Angele and Kristen, hold down the office for me when I can’t be there; they are my saving grace. Rachel keeps us in check, and my marketing team members, Dawn and Dennis, bring my ideas to life.” WHAT PROJECTS DO YOU SUPPORT TO HELP THOSE IN NEED? “I try to support as many different projects as I can. I donate as often as I can. It is a blessing to have a large following on social media, and I try to use my platform to encourage my followers to help if they can. I also hold regular donation campaigns to help people in my industry get on their feet.”

318 AVE. I #229, REDONDO BEACH | 310-316-5500 | CAMMYNGUYEN.COM

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

TARA KLEIN Realtor , Tara Klein Real Estate | Vista Sotheby’s International Realty ®

fter graduating from the University of Southern California with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications arts and sciences, Tara Klein worked for a decade as a legal recruiter and later as a tour guide for a real estate relocation company. She decided to return to her roots—she grew up in a real estate family—and got her real estate license seven years ago. She joined Vista Sotheby’s International Realty in 2016. WHEN DID YOU FIRST CONSIDER WORKING IN YOUR INDUSTRY? “My mother got her Realtor’s license when I was a senior in high school, and 30+ years later she still sells homes in Westlake Village where I grew up. Some of our dearest family friends met my mom through her work. I thought about going into real estate a few times throughout my adult life, but I was afraid to give up the corporate benefits and a paycheck twice a month. I finally got to a point where I realized how much I enjoyed helping promote my friends who own small businesses and decided that I was ready to work for myself. I love both the business side and the personal side of being a Realtor. I realize that I am the toughest boss I have ever worked for!” WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE OUR READERS TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR WORK? “I am a consummate residential real estate professional. I take a boutique approach with my clients, providing them with the highest level of service, care and individual attention. I am a local expert with global connections. My mission is to service buyers and sellers with detailed insights into the marketplace, area-specific data and community-related information. I combine strong market knowledge, negotiation skills and a commitment to

robust communication throughout the buying and selling process to ensure that I am the ideal partner to meet the needs of the people I work with.” TELL US ABOUT A UNIQUE FEATURE OF YOUR WORK. “My motivation derives from my clients’ satisfaction. I am only successful if their needs are fulfilled and they are thrilled with their results. I am proud to say that I have built my business solely on relationships and introductions from acquaintances, past clients and Sotheby’s International Realty colleagues from all over the world. A referral is the best compliment you can give in real estate. From the minute I started working with Vista Sotheby’s International Realty, I have immersed myself in the Sotheby’s Realty brand. I’ve been very fortunate to meet so many like-minded colleagues during my Sotheby’s travels. I thoroughly enjoy these experiences, and I love knowing that I can continue to provide service to my clients through a quick introduction to the people I’ve met.” WHAT PROJECTS DO YOU SUPPORT TO HELP THOSE IN NEED? “I am passionate about giving back to my community. The South Bay Association of Realtors presented me with the 2018 Citizen of the Year award for my ongoing commitment to helping the South Bay through my philanthropic endeavors. I was also a nominee for the award in 2015 and 2017. I support Walk with Sally, a local nonprofit that provides mentorship programs for children who have lost a parent to cancer. I served as the 2014 chairperson and the 2015 and 2016 co-chair of the organization’s White Light White Night event, and I’m an advisory board member.”

TELL US ABOUT YOUR SUPPORT SYSTEM. “I hired a business coach at the end of 2019, and it has been a game changer! Jim Miller coaches a very small, select group of Sotheby’s International Realty agents from different markets with varying years of experience and levels of production. In addition to coaching us individually, our group tries to meet in person every few months in different markets. Jim and this group served as a lifeline during the first month of the shelterin-place order. The texts, Zoom meetings and phone calls kept me connected, uplifted and inspired so I could focus on serving my clients. Vista Sotheby’s International Realty does a great job of providing administrative and marketing support.” WHAT HAVE BEEN YOUR PROUDEST MOMENTS DURING THE RECENT CRISIS? “Professionally, I have been very busy during this crisis, and I am beyond grateful. It serves as a reminder that the buyers and sellers I work with trust me, look to me for my expertise and know that even during a global crisis, I will get the job done! When the California government recognized Realtors as essential workers, I felt extremely proud to be a Realtor and incredibly thankful all at the same time. This inspires me to pay it forward to other businesses and entrepreneurs in our community.”

2501 N. SEPULVEDA BLVD. #200, MANHATTAN BEACH | 626-862-5971 | TARAKLEINREALESTATE.COM | DRE #01936331

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY NICHANH NICOLE

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

CARRIE QUINN Owner, Maison Luxe

graduate of the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles, Carrie Quinn has more than three decades of experience in the world of interior design. In 2007 she opened Maison Luxe, an interior design company and retail store located in Hermosa Beach. Carrie and her team offer complete design services, styling, staging, remodels and new construction. WHAT IS YOUR SPECIALTY SERVICE? “Speed is our specialty! We work with local vendors who have merchandise in stock. No need to wait the typical six to eight weeks for your order. We offer ‘quick refresh’ projects, where we bring merchandise from our store and other retail outlets and transform your room in a day! Our clients love that it can be done so quickly.” IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU EMPOWER OTHER WOMEN TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS? “We often have young designers shop in our store who are just getting started in their own interior design business. Having a retail store for 13 years and an interior design business for 20 years has taught me a lot, and I am happy to pass along tips and tricks to the trade!” WHEN DID YOU FIRST CONSIDER WORKING IN YOUR INDUSTRY? “I was interested in interior design from the time I was in high school. Back in the day, they actually offered an interior design class in home economics. My father was an avid art collector, and my mother is an interior designer as well. When I graduated from FIDM, my parents were building a custom French Normandy home in Palos Verdes. My first job was to work with their interior designer on their home and learn some of the ins and outs of construction.” WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU MADE DUE TO COVID-19? “Like many businesses, we had to pivot quickly and ramp up our online presence. We created our e-commerce store, and we have done some online design projects using Zoom. Technology has become central to our business model in these COVID-19 times. People are spending so much more time in their homes, and our products offer ways that clients can make their homes cozier, calmer and better places to live.”

Carrie and her dog, Naya

WHAT ARE YOU ESPECIALLY GRATEFUL FOR TODAY? “We are all so grateful for our health. We are also grateful to have a business so close to nature. Standing outside our shop and seeing the surf is a bonus.”

138 PIER AVE., HERMOSA BEACH | 310-372-5552 | MAISONLUXEHOME.COM

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

PAULINE ROWE & DR. CINDY CHUN Peninsula Heritage School

ounded in 1961, Peninsula Heritage is a nonprofit independent school that serves students in kindergarten through eighth grade. As women of color, head of school Dr. Cindy Chun and associate head of school Pauline Rowe work to infuse diversity and inclusivity in the school’s curriculum and climate. Together the two have a combined experience of 60 years working as educators. TELL US ABOUT DIVERSITY IN INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS. “While independent schools are on the road to becoming more racially diverse and inclusive, students of color still struggle to balance the values of their family, culture and race with the expectations of their school. Peninsula Heritage School strives to cultivate a culture in which diversity and equity are implicit in the everyday lives of their students. We place a high priority on leading conversations that inspire faculty to take action to help students

feel more comfortable and valued when expressing differences.” CONSIDERING WHAT IS HAPPENING IN THE WORLD, WHAT CAN SCHOOLS DO TO BUILD ON THIS MOMENTUM? “In light of the racial justice issues that have been brought prominently to the forefront by recent tragic incidents, education must evolve to address issues of racism and inequity. Schools need to be willing to work hard to learn who their students are, to use relatable content with which students can connect, and to encourage students to incorporate personal perspectives into their learning experiences. Historical inaccuracies should be addressed in the curriculum. Many staff meetings are being devoted to this work so faculty can use different lenses to reassess their curriculum to make sure once-missing voices will now be heard.”

HOW DO YOUR EXPERIENCES AS WOMEN OF COLOR INFORM YOUR PEDAGOGICAL PHILOSOPHIES? Dr. Cindy Chun: “I am a woman of Hawaiian, Chinese, Korean, Japanese and Irish descent, but I mostly identify with my Hawaiian heritage. I believe that schools can use culturally responsive pedagogy along with a social justice framework to guide their diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) work. We want students to see themselves in their educational curriculum and to be exposed to other cultures.” Pauline Rowe: “I am a Black woman, born and raised in England, with Jamaican and Asian Indian ancestry. In my experience, structural inequities can be unconsciously present in classroom dynamics. Knowing that, we encourage students and faculty to have organic, empowering conversations about race, culture and equity.”

26944 ROLLING HILLS RD., ROLLING HILLS ESTATES | 310-541-4795 | PENINSULAHERITAGE.ORG SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

KAREN ANDERSON & LEIGH HANISEE The Prestige Team | Keller Williams L.A. Harbor

aren Anderson started her career in real estate in 1997. In 2017 she joined Keller Williams L.A. Harbor and formed The Prestige Team. With nearly 40 years of combined experience, Karen and Realtors Leigh Hanisee and Jonathan Ramirez have been named the Top Producing Group in their office since 2011 and are recognized as Top Listing Agents. TELL US ABOUT A UNIQUE FEATURE OF YOUR BUSINESS. “Everyone says they are unique because of the service they provide, but we really do walk the walk. We work tirelessly to make sure that no matter what goes on behind the scenes, everything our clients see is completely seamless.” WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU MADE DUE TO COVID-19? “We have had to modify how we do things as opposed to when we’re in a ‘normal’ environment. We’ve always been big on marketing and presentation, but today we need to give buyers an experience that is just as good as being there in person. Since most buyers are looking on the internet for homes and are used to shopping via open house, we need to bring the open house to them. This has inspired us to be very creative. Social media has been an important tool—generating literally thousands of views and giving us much additional exposure.” TELL US ABOUT A RECENT SUCCESS STORY. Karen: “We had a unique home we were preparing for the market right as COVID-19 hit. Our client had just retired and was on her way to Nevada to search for a home when the shutdown stopped us in our tracks. We used our marketing expertise to showcase the house and sold it in the first week—over full price! I was proud of how my team stepped up to the challenge and got this done! None of us ever stopped working, despite the pandemic. I couldn’t be prouder of our wonderful team.” HAS MOTHERHOOD MADE YOU A BETTER ENTREPRENEUR? Leigh: “Motherhood teaches us patience and understanding— two traits that are very important in real estate. Mothers are also good at juggling multiple things at once, and we have to be prepared for whatever curveballs are thrown at us. This is something we are constantly doing in real estate ... every single day!”

Realtor® Leigh Hanisee (left) and broker Karen Anderson

TAKE A RISK OR PLAY IT SAFE IN BUSINESS? Karen: “I’ve always been a risk-taker. Every decision we make involves some risk. The defining issue is knowing that failures happen, but it’s what you learn from those ‘stumbles’ that makes you grow. In our current climate, there’s a lot of uncharted territory—we’re all learning and adjusting to a ‘new normal.’ We have to just keep moving forward and doing our best every day.”

28901 S. WESTERN AVE. #139, RANCHO PALOS VERDES | 310-251-2883 | PRESTIGETEAMHOMES.COM DRE #01224307 (KAREN), #01891085 (LEIGH)

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

KACI BACHER Owner/Operator, RockIt Body Pilates

ockIt Body Pilates is a fitness-based studio that blends classical Pilates philosophies with modern elements. They offer an intense, fast-paced workout set to upbeat music. Kaci Bacher has worked in fitness for 15 years. She started working with RockIt Body in 2009 and bought the business in 2019. This January she sold a portion of the company to two friends and current co-owners, Jennifer Chan and Brooke Ricciardi. HOW DO YOU EMPOWER WOMEN TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS? “The nature of our business is empowering to women. Our studio is 95% women—all ages, shapes and sizes. Our workout and Pilates machine can be intimidating at first, but we do our best to build our clients’ confidence and strength. In doing so, we change not only their bodies but instill a tenacity that influences everything they do.” HAS MOTHERHOOD MADE YOU A BETTER ENTREPRENEUR? “Quite the opposite. Entrepreneurship has made me a better mother. I’m a single mom of three boys. For years, they’ve witnessed the time and energy it takes to build and run a business. I used to feel guilty about the time away from home, but later I saw what responsible young men they were becoming. They have learned to work as a team and become self-sufficient, competent young men. I’d like to think they have learned by example.” WHAT PROJECTS DO YOU SUPPORT TO HELP THOSE IN NEED? “I am a firm believer in the power that physical activity has on our mental health and well-being. Knowing unemployment rates are up and budgets for workouts are down, I would love to offer anyone with budget restrictions who is struggling with the physical and emotional effects of COVID-19 to email me at kaci@ rockitbody.com for a free virtual studio membership.” TELL US ABOUT YOUR SUPPORT SYSTEM. “My best friends and partners, Jennifer Chan and Brooke Ricciardi, have been my support system. The decision to bring on partners in January was difficult, knowing how challenging partnerships can be. With the news of our business being shut down in March, my first thought/feeling was overwhelming gratitude that these two kick-ass, strong women were on my team and I didn’t have to go through this alone.” TELL US ABOUT THE HEROES ON YOUR TEAM. “The real heroes on our team are our loyal clients. I’ve seen strangers become friends. I’ve sculpted arms for wedding photos and abs postpartum. We’ve been together through it all, and COVID-19 is no exception. We are all like one big family!”

Jennifer Chan, Kaci Bacher, Brooke Ricciardi

1834 N. SEPULVEDA BLVD., MANHATTAN BEACH | 424-452-6040 1718 S. CATALINA AVE., REDONDO BEACH | 424-452-6080 ROCKITBODY.COM SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

CINDY SHEARIN Founder, The Shearin Group | Strand Hill | Christie’s International

ealtor® Cindy Shearin, founder of The Shearin Group, has worked in real estate in the South Bay for 30 years and holds many industry licenses and certifications. She has been selected for Who’s Who in Luxury Real Estate and for the Top 100 Realtors in L.A. County. DESCRIBE A UNIQUE FEATURE OF YOUR BUSINESS. “Our firm not only lists and sells homes and income properties but also offers staging for the homes we represent. In addition, we design and develop residences for market and for clients who request our services. Because I understand construction, development and design, I can look objectively at a home for a buyer or a seller and make suggestions to enhance the property—suggestions that many agents might overlook. For a seller, I can make recommendations to maximize their return; for a buyer, I can see the potential in a property that might need the slightest changes to become the perfect fit. Many years ago I obtained certifications as an appraiser. This knowledge and education have helped me place more accurate valuation on homes and provide a better perspective on added features.” TELL US ABOUT A RECENT SUCCESS STORY. “I recently sold a property where the ultimate desire was to meet everyone’s needs with a requested closing date, extended move-out dates for tenants, and with no request for repairs from the seller. I was sensitive to all parties and successfully made this occur. A perfect outcome for all involved!”

WHAT IS YOUR #1 PIECE OF ADVICE DURING THIS UNPRECEDENTED TIME? “Emphasizing family and the home during these times are pinnacle. We’ve been spending more time in our homes and more time with family. It shows us how important family and where we live are to us. Once you put things in perspective—though times may be uncertain—it may just make sense to move. Perhaps one needs a home office, a bigger backyard or a place to homeschool. After all, a house is not just a house; it’s a home.” WHAT ARE YOU ESPECIALLY GRATEFUL FOR TODAY? “I am so grateful for the lifetime of loyalty from my clients and colleagues, and of course my loving family and friends.”

1131 N. MORNINGSIDE DR., MANHATTAN BEACH | 310-200-8318 | THESHEARINGROUP.COM | DRE #00925580

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY LINDA COTTER

WHEN DID YOU FIRST CONSIDER WORKING IN YOUR INDUSTRY? “I grew up around Realtors, brokers and developers. I watched them rehab and build new properties, which ignited in me a passion for the industry.”

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

ANNE COLLARD Owner, Anne Collard Design

fter graduating with a degree in fine arts, Anne Collard moved to Los Angeles and worked as a buyer at Shutters on the Beach and Hotel Casa del Mar. There she established relationships with vendors she continues to work with today. After a short break to have her children, she started working for Waterleaf Interiors in Manhattan Beach. A few years later, Anne opened her own design studio, Anne Collard Design, in Downtown El Segundo. WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR WORK? “I have been fortunate to have amazing clients and really enjoy working together to create their ideal space from concept through to the last detail. I love the process.” WHAT CHALLENGES ARE SPECIFIC TO YOUR INDUSTRY? “I have to rely on a lot of people, and that can be challenging.” WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU MADE DUE TO COVID-19? “Unfortunately, I had to close my studio during COVID-19 and move my office into our house and garage. It has been challenging with four kids under 12 years old and two working parents, but there are also many silver linings. Because I gave up the studio, I drive around with a folding table and chairs in my car so I can hold meetings outside.” WHAT IS YOUR #1 PIECE OF ADVICE DURING THIS UNPRECEDENTED TIME? “Take it easy on yourself. We are all in this together.” HAS MOTHERHOOD MADE YOU A BETTER ENTREPRENEUR? “Motherhood has forced me to multitask very well and manage my time extremely efficiently. I wake up very early every day to get most of my computer work complete without kids interrupting me.” TAKE A RISK OR PLAY IT SAFE IN BUSINESS? “I believe you need to take risks in order to grow.” WHAT ARE YOU ESPECIALLY GRATEFUL FOR TODAY? “I am very grateful for my amazing family.” TELL US ABOUT YOUR SUPPORT SYSTEM. “My husband is my biggest supporter. I could not do any of this without him, especially right now.” WHAT VACATION DESTINATION ARE YOU DREAMING OF THESE DAYS? “I am always dreaming about being back on Nantucket. We didn’t make it there this summer because of COVID-19, but we have spent a lot of time at the beach here in California.”

310-902-0370 | ANNECOLLARDDESIGN.COM SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

GAYLE PROBST Realtor , RE/MAX Estate Properties ®

rowing up, Gayle Probst spent summers visiting extended family in Palos Verdes and fell in love with California and the Peninsula. She moved here as an adult and entered the real estate industry 28 years ago with Coldwell Banker. Gayle joined RE/MAX Estate Properties in 2012. WHAT MAKES YOU A SOUTH BAY EXPERT? “As a young girl visiting the Peninsula, I felt it was magical with all its beautiful foliage, flowers and palm trees plus the wonderful ocean breezes, the spectacular coastline views, the beach and Marineland. Over the years we’ve bought, renovated and sold numerous homes, so I learned a lot about the South Bay: its microclimates, school systems and community values. Palos Verdes is an area I know well and love to introduce to buyers new to the area. The South Bay has lower

crime, cleaner air, better schools and overall better quality of life than anywhere in the Los Angeles area. I work where I love to be!” SO WHAT MAKES YOU THE BEST IN REAL ESTATE? “Having bought and sold a lot of homes on my own, I know what a challenging experience buying and selling can be. The old saying is very true: ‘Home is where the heart is!’ It’s where your family and friends gather and memories are made. And no matter the price, it is an expensive endeavor. I work very hard to understand my clients’ needs, wants and objectives. I take the trust a client puts in me very seriously. I am a great listener and a calm communicator. I am also highly competitive in a relatively male-dominated field. I have very high expectations for myself; I work longer and harder than my competition

to succeed, which helps my relationship with my clients as well. They know they can count on me always, and because of this I get lots of repeat business and referrals.” IS CALIFORNIA REAL ESTATE STILL A GOOD INVESTMENT? “Yes, I think it is. Right now we are benefiting from the lowest interest rates in decades, so the market is very active. When you look back over any period of 10 to 15 years, you will see ups and downs. But over any 20-year period, real estate investments have outperformed all other forms of investments—even more so here in the South Bay. Real estate—like all business—is ever-changing, and I love the constant challenge. I consider it a privilege to live and work here.”

450 SILVER SPUR ROAD, RANCHO PALOS VERDES | 310-977-9711 | PVREALESTATE.COM | DRE #01137236

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

CACHITA HYNES Owner, Style On The Spot

or the past 20 years, Cachita Hynes has worked as a marketing, branding and events expert, helping businesses and entrepreneurs expand and promote their brand and social media strategy. She started her company, Style On The Spot, in 2012. HOW DID YOU DECIDE TO START STYLE ON THE SPOT? “While working at MGM movie studio running digital and cable marketing, I had a dream I would own a business someday. I woke up and drew the logo. I put it on the back burner because I couldn’t imagine taking that risk. I then moved on to Netflix, managing Latin America content marketing. After that, I decided to make my dream a reality.” WHAT IS YOUR SPECIALTY SERVICE? “Our specialty is cultivating memorable events, aiding businesses in digital marketing, and personal branding to help women achieve success in their careers. I believe style should be a part of every aspect of your business; you only get one first impression.” TELL US ABOUT HOW YOU’VE HANDLED THE CHALLENGES OF COVID-19. “Due to COVID-19, events were put on hold, so I pivoted my company and focused on digital projects. I’ve helped numerous local companies update their branding/social presence and started an online charity event called Happier Hour, where I’ve hosted inspiring women including Chrissy Metz from This Is Us. I’m also excited to help with a drive-in at Manhattan Village and a digital LA Fashion Week coming up.” IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU EMPOWER OTHER WOMEN TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS? “I recently started an online program called Career Camp to help women achieve their dream job. We have different options depending on their needs and coaching required. One of my passions is connecting people, and I’ve already helped several women discover a new career.” WHAT PROJECTS DO YOU SUPPORT TO HELP THOSE IN NEED? “I’ve been volunteering my time giving online classes for the organization Dress For Success and aiding women who are out of work in finding a job they are passionate about. We focus on creating resumes and honing networking skills.” WHAT IS YOUR #1 PIECE OF ADVICE AT THIS TIME? “Take time for yourself. I encourage women to create their EmpowHER hour. Follow me on Instagram @StyleOnTheSpot to learn more. Make one hour a day for you. No matter what, you deserve one of the 24 hours in a day just for you.”

840 APOLLO ST., EL SEGUNDO | 323-445-4908 | STYLEONTHESPOT.COM SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

LATRICE McGLOTHIN Community Engagement Officer, Kinecta Federal Credit Union

s the community engagement officer at Kinecta, Latrice supports the communities Kinecta serves through fundraisers, education, volunteer time and community events. With Latrice’s guidance, Kinecta employees volunteered more than 8,800 hours, raised more than $650,000 and took part in 180 community events in 2019. Latrice has worked in community engagement for the past 25 years and joined Kinecta in 2007. IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU EMPOWER OTHER WOMEN TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS? “Together with three Kinecta associates, I helped create a women’s empowerment group called the Kinecta 99s to empower and inspire all women by providing mentorship, leadership and sisterhood. I also mentor women in college who are launching into their professional careers by offering resources, introducing them to decision-makers in their areas of interest and encouraging them to take risks.” WHAT PROJECTS DO YOU SUPPORT TO HELP THOSE IN NEED? “At Kinecta, I facilitate program management for our annual backto-school backpack and food drives, among other community service efforts. The backpack drive provides school supplies to 600 students from underserved areas. The annual food drive provides staple grocery items, a $75 gift card and Thanksgiving cheer for 1,000 families. In my personal life, I recently served on a task force to create a food bank in the city of Gardena to serve those experiencing food insecurities due to the COVID-19 pandemic. A personal passion is promoting financial literacy. Through Kinecta, I have facilitated many educational programs for high school students, underserved communities, local charities and organizations such as Bob Hope USO and various chambers of commerce. COVID-19 and the safer-at-home order have opened the opportunity for us to reach even more people via webinar.” TELL US ABOUT YOUR SUPPORT SYSTEM. “There are good times and hard times in life and at work, but having a stable, strong foundation and support system has helped me weather many storms, experience amazing victories and look forward to the future. My network includes my faith in God, the love of my husband, the support of my family, the direction I receive from leaders in the industry and the advisement of wise friends.” WHAT HAVE BEEN YOUR PROUDEST MOMENTS DURING THE RECENT CRISIS? “I was honored to have my original song and video, ‘Time to Get Away,’ showcased during an international conference that educated industry professionals about Black Lives Matter and systemic racism—ultimately driving a commitment to change.”

1440 ROSECRANS AVE., MANHATTAN BEACH | 310-643-5511 | KINECTA.ORG

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

KERRY L. DAWSON Realtor , NW Real Estate Brokers ®

riginally from Fargo, North Dakota, Kerry Dawson has been a Realtor in the South Bay for 27 years. She enjoys travel, kayaking, hiking, skiing, cycling, weight lifting and Pilates.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT THE SOUTH BAY? “I love Southern California and don’t miss the Midwest’s subzero winters. It’s the best place to be a Realtor. Everyone wants to own in this area. It’s exciting working with clients in what may be the single most significant purchase in their lifetime.” WHAT’S MOST REWARDING ABOUT YOUR WORK? “Helping young couples from the beginning of their family life and the addition of children to the empty-nester stage, which may involve several homes and investment properties. I enjoy working with couples moving to the area, as I can educate them about our schools, share my knowledge of the South Bay and find them the perfect home with my networking expertise.” DESCRIBE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR CLIENTS. “It’s a close bond—a great relationship. I sometimes work a year or two looking for the right home for my clients. They refer their friends and family to me after they have found a home. The best compliment a client can give me is a referral.” WHAT IS YOUR SPECIALTY SERVICE? “I find homes that are not on the market for my clients. I network with a large number of agents to find what each other needs for their clients. I can attribute a large percentage of my business to networking.” TELL US ABOUT A RECENT SUCCESS STORY. “Earlier this year when COVID-19 hit, my clients and I found a property that was their dream home. Because of the shutdown, we were able to put in a contingent offer of needing to sell their house before they could close on this one. We were lucky, as this house should have been sold the first week it was on the market. It’s a newly remodeled, one-story residence with ocean views. Even luckier, we sold their home in two weeks.” WHAT VACATION DESTINATION ARE YOU DREAMING OF THESE DAYS? “Being able to go to London for a Genesis reunion concert with Phil Collins, which has now been rescheduled for April 2021. We are hoping to include two more countries on this trip if the COVID-19 travel ban has been lifted.”

MANHATTAN BEACH | 310-753-5537 | SOUTHBAYKERRY@GMAIL.COM SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

161

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

JEN OLIAK Owner, Ounce of Salt Jewelry

unce of Salt Jewelry is an online jewelry store owned by Jen Oliak, a jewelry designer available by appointment. In addition to creating custom-made fine jewelry for clients, Jen’s online store offers an original collection of Ounce of Salt designs and a curated collection of favorites from other designers. WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE OUR READERS TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS? “Most people find the world of fine jewelry confusing and intimidating. I’ve focused on eliminating the ‘shade’ that the industry is notorious for.My priority is for customers to feel informed and confident in their decision-making process. When a client feels comfortable, the entire shopping experience shifts from stressful to fun and exciting!” HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN WORKING IN THIS FIELD? “My family history and jewelry-making are an intertwined tapestry of experiences and skill sets. My grandfather was a passionate jeweler, and my father followed in his footsteps. I spent my childhood playing with and learning about gems and jewelry, but I never actually intended to make it my career! I spent the first decade of my career in New York City corporate finance. Now I put my business skills to work analyzing quality and production costs and pass that value to my clients.” WHAT IS YOUR SPECIALTY SERVICE? “I make custom designs accessible to anyone. I specialize in custom engagement rings, redesigns and one-of-a-kind legacy pieces. By working virtually, I can find or design dream jewelry for anyone around the country. By eliminating the typical overhead of a brick-and-mortar retail store, I work more efficiently and pass the savings on to my customers. However, not everything needs to be custom, so there’s plenty to peruse on my online store.” WHAT CHALLENGES ARE SPECIFIC TO YOUR INDUSTRY? “Unfortunately, the jewelry business can feel impossible to navigate alone. I understand this apprehension, which is why I work hard to make sure my clients get the best quality for their budget.” WHAT PROJECTS DO YOU SUPPORT TO HELP THOSE IN NEED? “Together with my local and blogging community, we raised more than $20,000 for Matanya’s Hope, an organization that helps impoverished Kenyan children have access to education. We also raised over $17,000 for The Waterbearers, a clean water project in Nepal. My family volunteers yearly for The Giving Spirit, a Los Angeles charity dedicated to helping the local homeless.”

516 N. SEPULVEDA BLVD., MANHATTAN BEACH | 310-970-4485 | OUNCEOFSALTJEWELRY.COM

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

LYNNE LEAR Realtor , Strand Hill | Christie’s International Real Estate ®

ynne Lear has been a top-producing Realtor in the South Bay for the past 16 years. Prior to that she was the director of Southwest sales for Disney Online and worked at News Corp in sales, marketing and management.

WHAT IS YOUR SPECIALTY? “My niche within real estate is being an ‘off-market specialist,’ which means that many of my transactions are not on the MLS. For buyers, it is advantageous to see properties before they become public so they are not competing with others. For sellers, this approach may be better if they have privacy concerns about being on the open market. This strategy needs to fit both sellers’ and buyers’ objectives. This year I have transacted 30% of my business off-market.” WHO ARE YOUR CLIENTS? “I am as comfortable and happy to work with the first-time buyer who needs hand-holding as I am with the experienced, highnet-worth client who needs more of a consultative partner with business acumen. I buy and sell for many of my friends and am known to be very discreet in our small town. The best compliment I have heard is from a very successful fellow agent who said if he ever sells his house, he would hire me! Isn’t that something?” IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU EMPOWER OTHER WOMEN TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS? “I have coached and mentored women for years as they enter college, the work force, second careers, etc. Many moms have a hard time moving back to the workplace after their kids are grown. I love to help them tap into their talents and passions as they figure out the transition into their next phase. I have even hired some of these women to help propel them forward. A little encouragement goes a long way.” WHY IS REAL ESTATE A GOOD FIT FOR YOU? “After 18 years in corporate America, I wanted to stop traveling, be home with my children and become more involved in my community. My established skill set of negotiating multi-milliondollar contracts, handling a zillion details, using my business head and problem-solving expertise while working with people dovetailed perfectly into a local, successful career in real estate. My clients have become some of my closest friends. What could be more rewarding than that?”

1131 MORNINGSIDE DR., MANHATTAN BEACH | 310-779-1723 | LYNNELEAR.COM | DRE #013150148 SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

163

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

VALERIE ANNE MCDONALD Realtor , NW Real Estate Brokers ®

alerie Anne McDonald has been a veteran of the real estate industry for 42 years. She joined NW Real Estate Brokers in 2000.

WHAT IS YOUR SPECIALTY SERVICE? “I have a broad range of experience in the industry. I started working in real estate when I was in college and haven’t stopped. Some of my specialties are residential listing and sales, 1031 taxdeferred exchanges, estates/trusts, foreclosures, short sales and asset management, to name a few.” TELL US A RECENT SUCCESS STORY. “My two most recent clients—one buying, one leasing—both wanted to live closer to their families. Both obtained the homes without physically seeing the properties! It was such a new way for someone to acquire a property—virtual showings are fun! Both families now are closer to their loved ones and in their new homes.” WHAT CHALLENGES ARE SPECIFIC TO YOUR INDUSTRY? “We’re masking, we’re disinfecting, we’re limited to showings, we’re required to have each person sign disclosures to even walk through a home now, and we have limited entry on open houses. Practicing social distancing for any real estate extrovert is grueling!” DESCRIBE THE ROLE OF MENTORSHIP IN YOUR CAREER. “Often I see young women or men in jobs that they are way too smart to be in. When they express interest in what I do, I extend mentorship to them (I have done three thus far). Real estate mentorships are long—two years minimum. I continue to reach out to people who are interested in learning and growing in the real estate industry.” TELL US ABOUT YOUR SUPPORT SYSTEM. “I am very fortunate to have amazing friends—some who are women in business and others who are not—who support me. Many women are juggling multiple responsibilities: family, work, friends, church, self-care, social commitments, passions. We need to be reminded to focus on our priorities and that if we need help, our friends are there for us. This has been a critical part of my success.” WHAT VACATION DESTINATION ARE YOU DREAMING OF? “I am not a big traveler, but Iceland. I want to see the Northern Lights in full bloom.” WHAT IS YOUR #1 PIECE OF ADVICE DURING THIS UNPRECEDENTED TIME? “As a person of faith, I would say have peace and rest. These are transitionary times, and fear is your worst enemy. God is in control.”

1215 HIGHLAND AVE., MANHATTAN BEACH | 310-621-7847 | NWREBROKERS.COM | AGENTVALERIE@GMAIL.COM | DRE#01104374

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

DEBORAH RICHIE-BRAY Owner, Richie-Bray, Inc. Landscape Architecture

or the past 30 years, award-winning landscape architect Deborah Richie-Bray has worked with clients to design the exterior spaces of homes and landmark properties throughout the South Bay, including the South Coast Botanic Rose Garden master plan. She founded Richie-Bray, Inc. Landscape Architecture in 2004. TELL US ABOUT A UNIQUE FEATURE OF YOUR BUSINESS. “I love creating outdoor environments that are lush, textured and rich in color, while also being environmentally conscious, waterfriendly and low-maintenance. I am an expert in water conservation, and I’ve completed numerous low-water and fire-prevention planting designs throughout the South Bay and Catalina Island. I’m currently working on a 700-acre ranch on Catalina within the nature conservatory.” WHAT CHALLENGES ARE SPECIFIC TO YOUR INDUSTRY? “Design is a creative process that requires intuition and quick instinct. My clients can’t always put their vision into words, so I help shape and transform it into reality—which requires the art of quick hand sketches and 3D images. Each project is its own challenge since no garden is the same. I pride myself on being able to communicate with my clients—quickly and openly—understanding their needs and creating designs that will fulfill and exceed their expectations.” WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU MADE DUE TO COVID-19? “It has certainly changed how much face-to-face time I get with my clients, but they are enjoying the backyard conference table for presentations! It has also allowed us to be creative in how we work together. I still do a site visit to get started, but we’ve been incorporating Zoom and 3D images into the planning phase as well. Clients are wanting to invest in outdoor spaces. I’m getting requests to create areas where families can come together and to incorporate vegetable gardens into projects. This time has been a welcome reminder that I’m not just creating beautiful outdoor spaces; I’m creating living rooms and areas to expand the living size of my client’s homes. We are often designing pools, spas, BBQs, fireplaces and water features too.” WHAT VACATION DESTINATION ARE YOU DREAMING OF? “Traveling is an amazing resource for inspiration. In addition to recharging my creativity, I’ve picked up influences from around the world that have inspired my work. I had a trip planned to the Greek Isles for this summer, with a stop-off in Paris to spend time in Monet’s garden, but we unfortunately had to postpone. I had the chance to visit family in Tennessee this summer, spending time in the local botanical gardens and appreciating the native beauty of the area (which is my idea of a perfect day).”

2432 VIA AMADOR, PALOS VERDES ESTATES | 310-377-5868 | RICHIE-BRAY.COM | IG: @RICHIEBRAYINC SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

165

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

KIM DIGILIO Owner, Sent From the Future

moments, the muck and all the wonderful moments in between. I know what it is like to struggle with self-doubt and feel anxious, depleted, overwhelmed. I try to live my life authentically.”

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE CLIENTS TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? “I am not someone who lives her life perfectly mindful all the time. In fact, I think one reason my meditations hit home for so many is that I wade through daily life also—the mundane

HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH THE NAME OF YOUR BUSINESS? “A few years ago, I was asked to lead a teen wellness workshop. I asked myself why any teenager would want to attend a workshop to learn about meditation and wellness. My teenage years were fraught with selfloathing, insecurity and anxiety—despite my put-together exterior (straight-A student, multisport athlete, Type A overachiever). My healing and self-acceptance came when I was an adult and was able to process my childhood experiences and offer myself love and compassion. It dawned on me that through teaching

everal years ago, Kim Digilio had the desire to open a meditation studio in the South Bay. Unable to find an appropriate location, she continued teaching yoga and meditation at local fitness studios and eventually decided to share her guided meditations online through a new website business, Sent From the Future. Today she also leads wellness groups for teens and, having attended Princeton University and worked there as an admissions officer, provides college counseling services integrating mindfulness and self-awareness into the application-writing process.

meditation, mindfulness and wellness, I am like a person’s future self, traveling back in time to shower them with acceptance, compassion, empathy, forgiveness and share tools they will need to sail through the journey of life. And so Sent From the Future was born. We can all go back, in a way, to heal wounds and accept the past as part of our present.” WHAT IS YOUR #1 PIECE OF ADVICE DURING THIS UNPRECEDENTED TIME? “You will weather this storm. Ultimately, storms always pass, the waters always calm and we emerge on the other side—altered and stronger. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, take three deep breaths, with your eyes closed, and think of something that stirs up hope. Small moments of hope can reset your psyche and nourish you, especially when the big moment feels insurmountable.”

SENTFROMTHEFUTURE.COM

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

RACHEL EZRA Broker Associate, Vista Sotheby’s International Realty

achel Ezra has assisted buyers and sellers with their real estate goals for more than 18 years. After starting her career in commercial real estate, she transitioned to residential real estate when she moved to Manhattan Beach. She joined Vista Sotheby’s International Realty four years ago. WHAT IS YOUR #1 PIECE OF ADVICE DURING THIS UNPRECEDENTED TIME? “Take a moment, take a deep breath and be thankful for what you have. Do not focus on what you don’t have or what others do have. Be present in the moment and enjoy your family time.” WHAT HAVE BEEN YOUR PROUDEST MOMENTS DURING THE RECENT CRISIS? “I am honored to find the perfect home for my clients amid the pandemic. Nowadays a home must serve a multitude of situations. Your dining room table is now your office, your kids’ school, your kids’ play area and your dinner table all in one day.” HAS MOTHERHOOD MADE YOU A BETTER ENTREPRENEUR? “Motherhood and raising a family have made me a better entrepreneur because I have greater insight into the family dynamic. As families evolve, so do their real estate needs. A home with a backyard may be essential for a family with young kids, or a pool for families with older kids, or an in-home office for a work-fromhome parent. As our population is getting older, the empty nesters may want to downsize and get closer to the beach.” WHAT ARE YOU ESPECIALLY GRATEFUL FOR TODAY? “I am grateful for family time. I value my clients’ trust and confidence in me and sincerely appreciate their loyalty and business. I am grateful for our son’s aide and our nanny, who shows up to work every day and helps take care of our twins. I am thankful to be able to work in our beach community; living and working by the beach gives me a sense of serenity I never knew before.” TELL US ABOUT YOUR IDEAL DAY OFF. “Leisurely cooking breakfast with my husband, taking the twins to the beach with other families, surfing, swimming in the ocean, playing in the sand and just staring at the waves. After coming home, open a nice bottle of wine, cook dinner and watch a movie with the kids while snuggling on the sofa together.”

Rachel with her twins, Nathaniel Kralis and Ariel Kralis

WHAT VACATION DESTINATION ARE YOU DREAMING OF THESE DAYS? “I would love to take my family to Greece (my husband’s roots) and Israel (where I’m originally from).”

916 MANHATTAN AVE., MANHATTAN BEACH | 310-400-0297 | RACHELEZRA.COM | DRE #01396863 SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

167

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

BRITTNY BURFORD Realtor , RE/MAX Estate Properties ®

fter graduating from Arizona State University with a marketing degree in 2004, Brittny Burford moved to the South Bay and has lived here ever since. She became a licensed Realtor in 2009 and joined RE/MAX Estate Properties in 2013. Brittny is the 2020 president of the South Bay Association of Realtors and has also been active in the community through Leadership Hermosa Beach and the Hermosa Beach Chamber of Commerce. WHAT CHALLENGES ARE SPECIFIC TO YOUR INDUSTRY? “Being a Realtor in a highly competitive market is challenging every day as I earn the trust and business of my clients purely through my sphere of influence and referrals.” WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU MADE DUE TO COVID-19? “The pandemic has definitely shifted the way I interact with and represent my clients. My initial meetings with buyers and sellers are all now virtually via Zoom, and showings have also gone virtual. Change is the only thing that is constant, and to continue to be relevant, you must change how you do business.” IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU EMPOWER OTHER WOMEN TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS? “I’m a firm believer that your vibe attracts your tribe, and surrounding yourself with other like-minded, strong-willed women makes you a better person and entrepreneur. I’m committed to my industry and have volunteered with the South Bay Association of Realtors for almost as long as I have been in real estate. I have learned so much from all the women I’ve been blessed to work with over the years, and I try to lead by example just like they have done for me.” HAS MOTHERHOOD MADE YOU A BETTER ENTREPRENEUR? “Absolutely, it has forced me to master how to balance my time between my clients and my family. I give 110% to everything I do both personally and professionally. As a working mom, I put my efforts into the ones that make it worthwhile to be away from my family. I am motivated to be a strong role model for my daughter and teach her the importance of working hard so you can play hard.” WHAT ARE YOU ESPECIALLY GRATEFUL FOR TODAY? “I’m grateful for my family, friends, colleagues, my health and the opportunity to live and work in the South Bay. It’s a unique, beautiful slice of heaven, and I love getting to share that with our community.”

1401 HIGHLAND AVE., MANHATTAN BEACH | 310-897-8228 | BRITTNYBURFORD.COM | DRE #01874928

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

KARINA PACIFIC Realtor , Strand Hill | Christie’s International Real Estate ®

native of Mexico, Karina Pacific immigrated to the United States as a teenager and immediately fell in love with Los Angeles. She has been a resident of the South Bay for 20 years. Karina volunteers with the Richstone Family Center, a nonprofit dedicated to preventing and treating child abuse; Young Life, a youth mentoring nonprofit; and Operation Underground Railroad, which rescues young people from the world of child sex trafficking. WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT REAL ESTATE? “I genuinely love the people in real estate, whether it be clients, vendors or agents. Building and strengthening relationships with my clients has truly enhanced my experience as a Realtor and left me with friendships beyond the business realm. Having the ability to guide them through their real estate needs is truly an honor. As a classical feng shui consultant, I’m able to apply this practice by leveraging clients’ home energy potential. By implementing the foundations of feng shui, health, relationships and prosperity can be enhanced in each home, making it an excellent complement to real estate.” WHEN DID YOU FIRST CONSIDER WORKING IN THE REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY? “I was raised in Mexico by a single mother who worked tirelessly to buy a small duplex. She rented one unit, and we lived in the smaller one. She took great pride in being a homeowner. In Mexico—and for many people throughout the world—owning a home comes with the feeling of great accomplishment, security and honor. This sentiment has stayed with me and is one of the main reasons I wanted to become involved in this complex but highly rewarding industry.” WHICH PERSONALITY TRAITS ARE MOST IMPORTANT TO BE SUCCESSFUL IN YOUR FIELD? “Being an active listener and reliable communicator are essential. This industry comes with many moving parts and personalities, which makes a positive attitude most important. Staying curious while asking the right questions is vital throughout the process. As a Realtor, staying informed about the local, national and global markets is essential. Creativity when problem-solving, multitasking and networking are always important.” IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU EMPOWER OTHER WOMEN TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS? “Women are rock stars! Real estate is extremely competitive, but when a gal colleague has a win in business or life, I love cheering her on. Every day we need to cheer each other on for the big and small wins. When we support each other, everyone thrives and makes the world brighter!”

1131 N. MORNINGSIDE DR., MANHATTAN BEACH | 310-529-4292 | KARINAPACIFIC.COM | DRE #01896081 SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

169

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

GEORGIANA ROSENKRANZ, JD Managing Partner, The Rosenkranz | Friedman Group LLC

onsistently recognized as one of the top-producing teams at Keller Williams Palos Verdes Realty, The Rosenkranz | Friedman Group is a full-service real estate team of experienced professionals with more than 40 years of industry experience. WHEN DID YOU FIRST CONSIDER WORKING IN THE REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY? “Real estate has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. My father is a local real estate investor, so I have always been passionate about real estate. As a broker, I have been blessed to help people turn their home ownership dreams into reality while also earning a living doing what I love!” IS REAL ESTATE STILL A GOOD INVESTMENT IN LIGHT OF COVID-19? “Absolutely! Despite these uncertain times, real estate in the South Bay remains a tangible and smart investment that is continuing to increase in value. Because of our excellent schools, weather and air quality—not to mention proximity to beaches, mountains, resorts, airports, great shopping, dining and entertainment— demand for housing in our community is outpacing our inventory like never before. Quarantining and telecommuting caused people to reevaluate the importance of having sufficient indoor space to work and educate at home, while also having a yard and easy access to safe and fun outdoor activities. As we are seeing, the result is a white-hot South Bay real estate market.” TELL US ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF PRACTICING THE GOLDEN RULE IN BUSINESS. “Particularly in such a relationship-based profession as real estate, it is critical for clients to know they can trust our professional judgment and personal advice. We earn that trust through consistent and strict adherence to ethical standards and constantly putting ourselves in our clients’ position. By implementing the Golden Rule, we anticipate our clients’ questions, concerns, desires and needs. This translates into strong, long-lasting relationships with highly successful outcomes for everyone involved.” HOW DO YOU GIVE BACK TO YOUR COMMUNITY? “During COVID-19, I have had the pleasure of shopping, making meals and running errands for people who are either high-risk or simply overwhelmed by current circumstances. I am also privileged to serve as a trustee for the Peninsula Education Foundation and to serve on the Palos Verdes Estates Traffic Safety Committee. I am so grateful for the opportunity to give back to the communities that mean so much to me and my family.”

550 DEEP VALLEY DR., SUITE 383, ROLLING HILLS ESTATES | 310-717-8767 GEORGE@GEORGESELLSTHESOUTHBAY.COM | THERFGROUP.COM | DRE #01411097

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

DIANA TURNER Realtor , e-PRO, Vista Sotheby’s International Realty ®

fter graduating from the University of Southern California with a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism and communications, Diana Turner worked with Good Housekeeping, Redbook and Cosmopolitan magazines and Disney Internet. She became a Realtor in 2004 and is a Top 25 Producer for real estate sales with Vista Sotheby’s International Realty. WHEN DID YOU FIRST CONSIDER WORKING IN THE REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY? “My father was a successful real estate broker in the Palm Springs area, so I got a taste of the business growing up. He had some high-profile celebrity clients.” WHAT ARE YOUR SPECIALTY SERVICES? “Since I’ve lived in the South Bay since 1996, I am very familiar with the niche neighborhoods. I have a great network of Realtors who share information about properties. This is not insight you get from public websites. My marketing materials (videos, brochures, etc.) are the highest quality for my clients. I’m hands-on in helping sellers present their home in the best light, which has paid off for them this year. My team members are consummate professionals. It is a reflection of who I am and our company.” WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE READERS TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR COMPANY? “Our deep knowledge of the local market and impressive group of Realtors sets us apart from newer firms. Sotheby’s is a luxury brand name recognized around the world. This all matters for clients.” TELL US ABOUT A RECENT SUCCESS STORY. “It’s turning out to be one of my best years, in spite of the COVID19 challenges. I’ve just completed some sales for clients whom I’ve worked with over many years. It’s so fun to see their families growing, and they now need a larger home. I also helped some first-time buyers who were referred to me. Very rewarding.” WHAT HAVE BEEN YOUR PROUDEST MOMENTS DURING THE RECENT CRISIS? “Getting multiple offers for a client’s property on the first day it hit the market—way over asking price. They are very happy.” WHAT PROJECTS DO YOU SUPPORT TO HELP THOSE IN NEED? “I donate every year to our local school districts, such as the Manhattan Beach Education Foundation. I am also active in a USC alumni group called Trojan League, which raises funds for scholarships given to local students.”

2501 N. SEPULVEDA BLVD., 2ND FLOOR, MANHATTAN BEACH | 310-213-2450 | LOSANGELESBEACHHOME.COM | DRE #01442365 SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

171

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

JENNIFER IRWIN Novelist

hile earning her bachelor’s degree in cinema from Denison University, Jennifer Irwin wrote a screenplay that led to her acceptance into an arts program in New York City. Years later, after her painful divorce, she began writing again to aid in her emotional healing. She used the basis of that screenplay to write her debut novel, A Dress the Color of the Sky, which was published in 2018. The book has won seven awards and has been optioned for a feature film. Jennifer has signed with a literary agent in New York who is now pitching the sequel, A Dress the Color of the Moon, to publishers. IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU EMPOWER OTHER WOMEN TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS? “I dedicated my book to all the women chasing a dream. I actively support other indie-published authors with every aspect of their writing and publishing journey. My debut novel also aligns with the #metoo movement. I did a great deal of research before writing the book because I wanted to write about the addiction/ recovery process in a realistic way. I enjoy helping with the healing of other women who are victims of sexual assault and childhood trauma by sharing my story during interviews, book club meetings, on social media and through private messages.” WHAT CHALLENGES ARE SPECIFIC TO YOUR INDUSTRY? “As an indie-published author, it has been challenging to penetrate the reader market all on my own. I have built a solid reader fan base through social media, which has been my main marketing platform. I had to learn how to create my brand, market, run promotions and giveaways, and all-around hustle. The book market is saturated, so trying to stand out in the crowd has been quite challenging. I accept every single opportunity that comes along where I can discuss my book and writing process.”

TELL US ABOUT YOUR SUPPORT SYSTEM. “My boyfriend, Charlie Hargraves, has been incredibly supportive. He critiqued my manuscripts, encouraged me to keep going when I felt like giving up and, as my attorney, helped me with all the contracts writers have to deal with. My support system also includes my readers and friends who have posted amazing photos of my book and written magnificent reviews. It really does take a village.”

JENNIFERIRWINAUTHOR.COM

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY LAUREN GUILFORD

HAS MOTHERHOOD MADE YOU A BETTER ENTREPRENEUR? “I have three grown sons who have been pivotal to my success as a writer. After losing everything in my divorce, I had to pick myself up and keep going for my kids. They taught me all about the importance of the side hustle!”

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Rolling Hills Estates Farmhouse compound on an acre and a half! Tennis court, horse facilities, pool, spa, pool-side cabana and more! Spectacular city lights views! Over 5,000 square foot home with 5 bedrooms and large open living spaces! $5,900,000 Video at chrisadlam.com

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Truly Exceptional Every so often, something truly exceptional becomes available. Tucked away on a quiet cul-desac, an extraordinary, farmhouse-style compound awaits. Taken down to the studs and newly constructed in 2017, this 5,000 square foot home was designed with entertaining in mind, and no detail was overlooked. The morning sun floods the chef’s kitchen, which opens to a great room featuring two fireplaces, impressive vaulted ceilings and walls of French doors to enjoy the outdoors. And the outdoors doesn’t disappoint... Resort-style amenities are yours to enjoy year round. An oversized pool and spa with Ipe wood decking, a poolside cabana, a lighted tennis court, and expansive city lights views to name just a few. Equestrians will love the 2-stall stable and tack room, plus prime, flat land for horses and direct access to the beautiful trails..... 72 Dapplegray Lane, Rolling Hills Estates Offered by Chris Adlam | Vista Sotheby’s International Realty DRE#00967574 | 310.493.7216

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Jennifer & Dave Caskey LIC#01198999

310.374.1800 caskeyandcaskey.com

Private Oasis Hill Section Estate 5 BEDROOMS | 4.5 BATH | 4,332 SQ. FT HOME | 7,500 SQ. FT LOT | OFFERED AT $4,649,000 Stunning Hill Section Home recently extensively remodeled with no expense spared! The epitome of indoor/outdoor living on this large 7,500 sq.ft. lot with south facing lush yard that checks all the boxes! Large fire pit, exterior dining area, outdoor kitchen with built-in Lynx BBQ, fireplace, outdoor TV & seating area, “spool” and still... vast yard space! It is truly one of the most exquisite yards west of PCH. Spacious open floor plan as you enter this home through the private front courtyard with water feature. Soaring ceilings, wide planked hardwood floors and accordion style doors that open to the entertainer’s dream yard. The chef’s kitchen was designed with entertaining in mind, with exquisite custom cabinetry that maximizes space while being beautiful and functional. Top of the line Gaggenau refrigerator, double SubZero wine refrigerators, double ovens, built-in Miele espresso maker, farmhouse sink & walk-in pantry. The main level also features an en suite bedroom perfect for guests & a separate powder room. Upstairs includes the remaining four bedrooms, laundry room and an office/study area with exquisite built-ins that is beautiful and purposeful. The master suite is oversized with an enormous walk-in closet & elegant bathroom with a soaking tub that overlooks the incredible yard. This home is truly timeless with it’s traditional, highly desired floor plan, incredible outdoor space and it’s warm, rustic vibe that makes you want to kick your shoes off and never leave!

BUY & SELL WITH d 310.367.9129 | o 310.546.7611 x357 jennifer.caras@vistasir.com | DRE#01466213 1144 Highland Avenue, Manhattan Beach, California 90266

Each Franchise is Independently Owned and Operated.

Extraordinary Hill Section Estate 6 BEDROOMS | 6.5 BATH + DETACHED GUEST SUITE | 5,214 SQ. FT HOME | 8,962 SQ. FT LOT | OFFERED AT $11,995,000 A rare opportunity to have it ALL in the highly sought after Hill Section of Manhattan Beach. This custom home was extensively remodeled by local renowned Jon Starr with exquisite craftsmanship throughout, from the mahogany woodwork on the ceilings to the floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding glass doors throughout. It brings the outside in, beginning with the indoor/outdoor water feature at the entryway, serenely surrounded by bluestone. Wide planked oak floors surround the open great room spaces with tons of natural light. The kitchen is stunning with an oversized 16 ft island, topped with sea pearl quartz with waterfall sides and Wolf & Sub-Zero kitchen appliances. An en-suite bedroom on the main floor, five bedrooms upstairs that all open up to an additional casual family room space. The master bedroom has panoramic ocean views and is a comfortable, spacious reprieve. The master bath has a freestanding tub that fills from the ceiling, a unique unexpected novelty! The outside area is breathtaking, with an ocean view through the house visible at the fire pit area with built-in seating. A built-in BBQ & seating area make it an ideal setting for entertaining with plenty of lawn space in addition to a pool, spa & outdoor beach shower. A detached guest suite overlooks the yard & main house, but warning it will be tough to get visitors to leave this remarkable setting! This home is beyond spectacular, yet extremely comfortable and relaxed. A truly extraordinary find!

2434 Manhattan Ave |

Hermosa Beach

4 Bedroom | 4 Bath | 4,148 SF | $6,289,000 A striking ground-up custom build, this premier ocean view home sets the bar for modern living and sustainability with a thoughtful, yet elegant aesthetic. Perfectly illuminated by the California sun from sunrise to sunset, the home exudes an effortless sophistication that highlights the multiple outdoor spaces, including private rooftop deck with eye-catching whitewater and coastline views from PV to Malibu. Sophisticated, sustainable living with the ultimate “WOW” factor, in an A+ North Hermosa Location! • Rooftop Deck

• Fully equipped In-home gym

• LEED Silver Certified Home

• Large Bonus Room

• Private Front Yard

• Arclinea Custom Kitchen

• Unobstructed Views, No Power Lines

• Custom Build in 2014

www.2434manhattanave.com

“Whatever you choose for a career path, remember the struggles along the way are only meant to shape you for your purpose. As you commence to your paths, press on with pride and press on with purpose.” - Chadwick Boseman

$60 Million + YTD Closed & Pending Sales Volume in 2020

PROPERTY ADDRESS

SALES PRICE

PROPERTY ADDRESS

SALES PRICE

PROPERTY ADDRESS

SALES PRICE

216 13th Street, Manhattan Beach - In Escrow

$7,399,000

2203 Ruhland Ave (#A), Redondo Beach

$1,559,000

26011 Topper Court, Stevenson Ranch

$664,500

428 32nd St, Manhattan Beach

$3,925,000

2019 Farrell Ave (#B), Redondo Beach

$1,499,000

5500 Noble, Sherman Oaks

$925,000

3012 N Poinsettia Ave, Manhattan Beach

$2,850,000

1107 Stanford Ave, Redondo Beach

$1,300,000

3904 Coolidge Ave, Los Angeles

$1,482,000

1416 9th St, Manhattan Beach

$2,830,000

2518 Nelson Avenue (#B), Redondo Beach

$1,130,000

3950 Coolidge Ave, Los Angeles - In Escrow

$1,300,000

2215 Alma Ave, Manhattan Beach

$2,665,000

1726 Speyer Ln, Redondo Beach

$1,222,000

1111 Grand Ave (#411), Los Angeles

$565,000

1437 23rd Street, Manhattan Beach

$2,500,000

2704 Voorhees, unit 2 Redondo Beach - In Escrow

$639,000

4360 Glencoe Ave (#2), Marina Del Rey

$1,159,000

308 N Herrin St, Manhattan Beach

$1,935,000

611 S. Prosptect Ave. Unit 104, Redondo Beach

$575,000

960 N Capistrano Pl, Orange

$989,000

3617 Elm Ave, Manhattan Beach

$1,650,000

1916 Clark Ln, Unit 2, Redondo Beach - In Escrow

$550,000

17023 Independence Way, Yorba Linda

$594,024

1156 9th Street, Hermosa Beach

$1,550,000

5581 Mistridge Dr, Rancho Palos Verdes

$1,450,000

14565 San Remo Dr, Corona

$580,000

736 Gould Ave (#8), Hermosa Beach

$1,400,000

32724 Coastsite Dr (#307 G), Rancho Palos Verdes

$699,000

20202 Village Green Dr, Lakewood

$555,000

226 Manhattan Avenue, Hermosa Beach

$1,395,000

5475 W 121st St, Hawthorne

$925,000

5361 Van Nuys Ct, San Diego

$1,900,000

804 S Juanita Ave, Redondo Beach - In Escrow

$2,250,000

18709 Milmore Avenue, Carson

$635,000

807 N Paulina Ave, Redondo Beach

$2,197,000

19433 Santa Rita St, Tarzana

$2,015,000

Nick Schneider 310.809.4875 | nick@schneiderproperties.com | Realtor® DRE# 01867363 | schneiderproperties.com

933 15th

Hermosa Hills

NEW CONSTRUCTION!

www.hermosa15.com

Welcome to Hermosa Hills where you’ll find 6(six) detached designer townhomes, showcasing true coastal lifestyle with a vast amount of living space ranging from 3000sft – 3300sft. An incredible contemporary home designed by renowned Doug Leach & Mul-Mac Architects. Nestled above in Hermosa Hills, the detached South-Facing townhomes are located on one of the highest parcels on the street. Each unit is comprised of 4 en-suites in total, including an oversized master with a spa-like master bath. A luxurious chef’s kitchen, open living/dining room replete with floor-to-ceiling sliding doors, and outdoor Roof-Top offer boundless entertainment opportunities. Enjoy resort-style living located on one of the premier lots in Hermosa Hills. This is not just a home – it’s a lifestyle.

RAMI ELMINOUFI 310.947.1180 | rami@bcbestates.com | BRE 01434630

933 15th (plantation) Unit A | $2. 899

Unit B | $2.799

937 15th (modern) Unit A | $2. 899

Unit B | $2.799

945 15th (transitional) Unit A | $2.799

Unit B | $2.699

937 15th

945 15th

1716 S Catalina Ave, Hollywood Riviera | 200 S PCH, Redondo Beach | 431 Main Street, El Segundo

Our neighborhood, your home.

29 Country Meadow Rd, Rolling Hills Estates | 4 bed | 5 bath | 3,959 sf (btv)

Contact DeRenzis Real Estate for pricing or to schedule a private showing of these properties

1515 10th Street, Manhattan Beach | 5 bed | 6 bath | 4,608 sf (btv)

DARIN DERENZIS TOP PRODUCER

2019

310.418.6210 DRE# 01760239 darin@vistasir.com

MEREDITH DERENZIS

Scan our QR Code for more information!

310.600.7973 DRE# 01907722 meredith@vistasir.com Each office is independently owned and operated.

JUST LISTED

3820 Via Palomino, Palos Verdes Estates $3,499,000 This storybook Cape Cod beauty infuses the perfect blend of original charm with classically refined updates. Completely renovated in 2014 with award-winning boutique design firm Model Design, this meticulously maintained home is located on one of the most desirable streets in Valmonte. Throughout the home are exquisite details, including 2 fireplaces, tongue and groove ceilings, custom cabinetry and moldings, hand-distressed walnut flooring, unique light fixtures, elegant window coverings and a stately marble harlequin floor. Surrounded by walking trails, close to the Palos Verdes Golf Club and a short jaunt to the beach, this move-in-ready home is a rare opportunity to own a prime piece of Palos Verdes Estates.

310-704-4014 cariandbritt.com BRITT: BRE# 01799654 CARI: BRE# 00850678

2824 Victoria Place, Palos Verdes Estates

30103 Matisse Dr, Rancho Palos Verdes

$1,399,000 | 15,093 sq.ft lot | .3465 acres | One of the few remaining lots with unobstructed, panoramic views from Catalina Island to Malibu, and beyond

LILY LIANG

L.COM

EDBYVARIOUS FORMATION.

+1 310 373 3333 | TEXT 310-902-7799 HOME TO THE FINEST COLLECTION OF REAL ESTATE EXPERTS IN THE SOUTH BAY.

STRANDHILL.COM

STRANDHILL|CHRISTIE’SINTERNATIONALREALESTATELICENSE#01968431.THEINFORMATIONCONTAINEDINTHISDOCUMENT,INCLUDING,BUTNOTLIMITEDTO,SQUAREFOOTAGEAND/ORACREAGE,HASBEENPROVIDEDBYVARIOUS SOURCES WHICH MAY INCLUDE THE SELLER, PUBLIC RECORDS, THE MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE OR OTHER SOURCES. BROKER HAS NOT AND WILL NOT INVESTIGATE OR VERIFY THE ACCURACY OF THIS INFORMATION.

lily@lilyliang.com | www.lilyliang.com 550 Silver Spur Road, Suite 240, Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90274 BRE# 00837794

It’s a Seller’s Market!

AMAZING POOL HOME IN MIRALESTE | 5 BEDS | 4 BATHS | 3,600 SQ FT | 23,236 SQ FT LOT 3001 Palos Verdes Dr North Palos Verdes Estates Sold$30k over asking

Hermosa Sand Section 347 29th Street

JUST SOLD

kyledanielsrealestate.com m 310.483.3998

210 Avenue B, Redondo Beach Sold for $1,650,000

IN ESCROW

DRE# 01843670

JUST SOLD

Each Franchise Is Independently Owned And Operated

THE VILLAS AT TERR ANEA An exclusive collection of exquisite whole-ownership seaside second homes on the Palos Verdes Peninsula

VILLA 16-101

VILLA 10-101

VILLA 13-201

VILLA 13-301

3BR | 3.5BA | 2,530 SF $2,245,000

2BR + DEN | 2.5BA | 2,347 SF $1,995,000

2BR + DEN | 2.5BA | 1,864 SF $1,395,000

3BR | 3.5BA | 2,421 SF $1,925,000

Become one of the privileged few to call Terranea a personal seaside sanctuary for every season. With your very own 24-hour Owners Concierge, preferred pricing at all eight dining establishments and Spa, a masterfully designed championship nine-hole, par-three golf course and access to four distinct pool environments, owning at Terranea means everything is taken care of. Just relax and enjoy the comfort of in-residence room service, housekeeping and a professional resort management staff to care for your Villa or Casita vacation home around the clock.

100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275

LDD LONG POINT MANAGEMENT, INC. DRE LICENSE #1774333

For a showing, please call 424-275-5750 TERRANEAREALESTATE.COM

77 Dapplegray Lane, Rolling Hills Estates $2,450,000 5 Bed | 5 Bath | 3,549 sq. ft. home | 13,432 sq. ft. lot A spacious family home in the highly desired Dapplegray Lanes neighborhood in Rolling Hills Estates! Character, charm, and thoughtful touches everywhere you turn! Built with impeccable taste in 2009 with an open concept floor plan, multiple indoor living spaces, and luxurious master suite. Custom built-ins, cozy outdoor fireplaces, and generous walk-in closets are just a few of the amenities this home offers. In addition to two living rooms on separate floors, this property includes two private outdoor entertaining areas shaded by mature trees and landscaping. The lower living area is perfect for a game/school room and the backyard has endless potential for family fun, with plenty of space for a pool and so much more!

PASEO LA CRESTA

SIGNIFICANT PRICE REDUCTION

PALOS VERDES ESTATES

$8,500,000

ChhabriaRE.com/1701PaseoLaCresta

1701 Paseo La Cresta is an iconic property of Palos Verdes Estates. Located in Monte Malaga, it sits unobstructed from picturesque views of sunsets, the ocean, and Catalina Island. This timeless Tuscan style home spreads across 9,500 SF, featuring 5 BD, 8 BA, a media room, gym, infinity pool, wine cellar, sports court, and so much more on a nearly one acre lot. Currently on the market for $8,500,000.

BOWIE ROAD

PRICE REDUCTION

ROLLING HILLS

$4,190,000

ChhabriaRE.com/16BowieRoad

Situated on a 1+ acre lot, this extensively remodeled home offers privacy with panoramic, unobstructed views of the ocean, Queenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Necklace, Port of LA, and DTLA. This 4 BD, 3.5 BA with office home is introduced by a large breezeway that leads to the front door and outdoor patio with pool and BBQ. An open floor plan seamlessly connects the formal living room, dining room, kitchen, and family room.

Raju Chhabria BRE: 00874072

Philo Chhabria BRE: 00897605

ChhabriaRE.com

Neil Chhabria BRE: 01821437

(310) 902-7227

Anand Chhabria BRE: 01908741

chhabria.realestate

Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed, buyer to conduct own investigations.

1208 THE STRAND #B MANHATTAN BEACH, CA 90266 2 B ED | 2 BATH | CO ND O

Incredible opportunity to live directly on The Strand! This beautiful modern luxury unit provides unobstructed views of the ocean as far as the eye can see. Only a few feet to the sand with the Manhattan Beach Pier in the near distance, this extensively remodeled unit boasts high-end finishes throughout. As you enter, the bright and open floorplan guides your eyes straight through the double sliding glass doors directly to the ocean. The elegant living room with dining area steps out onto the balcony with amazing panoramic views which is elevated above The Strand providing added privacy. The well-appointed kitchen features bar

seating, Wolf range, custom cabinetry, and Carrara marble back splash. The main suite includes dual closets and a sophisticated bathroom with tiled walls and glass shower. Additional second bedroom with natural light and designer guest bath. This is 1 of 3 units in a newly remodeled building. Relish in the added features of a two-car garage, in unit laundry, AC, secured entrance, dual pane windows, and wood plank flooring. Enjoy warm ocean breezes in this refined condo in the Sand section of downtown Manhattan Beach. Be a part of a vibrant oceanside community with boutique shops, acclaimed eateries, and a true local feel.

DAN Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;CONNOR 310-261-7756 Dan@OConnorProperty.com BRE# 01384632

Considering a move to

PALOS VERDES? Trees, Trails & Tranquility Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Talk 310.701.8800 - 23+ years living on the Hill - 5 daughters in PV public schools - Low stress, highly responsive JUST OPENED ESCROW

867 Calle de Arboles, Redondo Beach 4 Beds | 2 Baths | 2,000 Sq Ft | 7,726 Sq Ft Lot Asking Price: $1,695,000 | Listed by Kevin Pluimer

JUST SOLD

4032 Via Largavista, Palos Verdes Estates 4 Beds | 4 Baths | 3,423 Sq Ft | 8,766 Sq Ft Lot $2,895,000 | Co-listed by Kevin Pluimer

Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01991628. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage.

Kevin Pluimer RealtorÂŽ 310.701.8800 kevin.pluimer@compass.com DRE 02020891

THINKING OF UPGRADING YOUR LIFESTYLE? CALL US TODAY • 310.740.5742

IN ESCROW

2601 SUNNYSIDE RIDGE RD, RANCHO PALOS VERDES 4 BEDS • 2 BATHS • 2,054 SQ. FT. • 20,084 SQ. FT. LOT OFFERED AT $1,590,000 • IN ESCROW & RECEIVED MULTIPLE OFFERS LISTED BY CHRISSY KARASAVAS

IN ESCROW

SOLD

24 HARBOR SIGHT DR, ROLLING HILLS ESTATES 4 BEDS • 4 BATH • 4,160 SQ. FT. • 29,863 SQ. FT. LOT SOLD FOR $2,500,000 LISTED BY TADASHI KONDO

64 RANCHVIEW RD, ROLLING HILLS ESTATES 3 BEDS • 2 BATHS • 1,861 SQ. FT. • 11,157 SQ. FT. LOT OFFERED AT $1,300,000 • IN ESCROW & RECEIVED MULTIPLE OFFERS LISTED BY MEG PUCCINELLI

310.740.5742 | HELLO@THEKONDOGROUP.COM | WWW.THEKONDOGROUP.COM DRE # 01438455 | DRE# 01953697 | DRE# 01928661

TOP RANKED REAL ESTATE TEAM

LAST WORD

Next to Normal SIX MONTHS INTO QUARANTINE, GELATO MAMA HAS SOME THINGS TO GET OFF HER CHEST. Written by Emily Tecklenburg | Illustrated by Nikki Smith

My pandemic brain is wilting. I know this because when I recently grabbed my daughter’s

longing to do it. What I wouldn’t give to find crumpled-up gym

to cry. The sight alone of the avocado-printed bag summoned

clothes in the bottom of a backpack, pausing to ponder when

sudden fat tears of sadness.

they were last washed. I guess I’m also just a sad lady, dream-

ass? Can’t I remember how much I despised washing those

ing of laundry—even though the one thing a pandemic can’t kill are piles of laundry.

little containers and becoming angry at the wasted food? Who

These last (hundred) months have felt endless in their days,

doesn’t want to eat a bagel? My life is complete when I get to

yet it only seems a moment ago when I sat in the parking lot on

eat a bagel!

that last fateful Friday of school. Anxious energy filled the air.

Who am I if I can’t complain about packing lunches? I’m

The fear of the unknown pulsed through our veins. The children

just a sad lady, dreaming about washing tiny Tupperware while

laughed nervously as they swung their heavy backpacks into the

eating leftover everything bagels. I realize how pathetic it is that

back of my Jeep. We didn’t know. We still don’t know.

I cried over a lunch bag, but I still cry every time Rudy finally

We try to do our part while mourning what we left behind

gets his acceptance letter to Notre Dame. So I barely stand a

and mourning the pain this pandemic has caused. While my

chance when confronted with relics of a pre-pandemic time.

pandemic brain is wilting and the Minecraft consumption is

A hundred things every day remind me of a life that feels far away. These things press upon me, practically suffocating me in their simplicity: A basket full of cleats the children outgrew

I mean, laundry makes me cry, but usually not because I’m

school lunch bag to pack a few things for the beach, I began

Wait. Don’t I hate packing lunches? Wasn’t it a pain in the

194

laundered so many months ago, sitting atop a dresser.

multiplying, each day I hold on tight to the people and the things and the laundry that make me feel … normal. But let it be known that when we finally get to send our

before a foot stepped in them. Baseball bags sitting around

children back to school, I reserve the right to complain about

collecting not memories but dust. A pile of school gym clothes,

packing lunches. ■

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