Ian Graham discusses ‘Unbillable Hours: A True Story’ on Monday, June 28 at 7:30 p.m. at Village Books, 1041 Swarthmore. Part memoir, part expos’, the story follows a first-year law associate as he negotiates the arduous path through a system designed to break those who enter it before it makes them. Landing a job at the prestigious L.A. law firm, Latham & Watkins, complete with a six-figure income, signaled the beginning of the good life for Graham. But the harsh reality of life as an associate quickly became evident. The work was grueling and boring, the days were impossibly long, and Graham’s main goal was to rack up billable hours. But when he took on a pro bono case to escape the drudgery, he found the meaning in his work that he’d been looking for. Mario Rocha was raised in a violent Los Angeles barrio and had the misfortune of being an innocent bystander at a party that was crashed by local gang members who shot and killed an honor student. Despite a lack of evidence, Mario, a thoughtful and gifted writer, was convicted of murder and sentenced to life without parole. As Graham worked to free Rocha, the shocking contrast between the quest for money and power and Mario’s desperate struggle for freedom led Graham to look long and hard at his future as a corporate lawyer. Filled with captivating portraits, the book provides a riveting look at gang politics, courtroom deceptions and the behind-the-scenes drama of big law firms. ‘On August 25, 2006, Mario Rocha walked out of the Men’s Central Jail and into the arms of his family, surrounded by friends and supporters,’ Graham writes. ‘It was more than 10 years after his arrest and incarceration, and eight months after the Court of Appeal had vacated his conviction. ‘I would have loved to watch Mario walk out of prison, but I was in Fresno that day, handling the exhibits in a meaningless deposition for a securities litigation case. I had tried to explain to the partner on the case what Mario’s release meant to me, but all I got was a cold stare and a lecture about priorities.’ Two weeks later, Graham gave notice. Today, Rocha, 29, is completing his sophomore year as a fulltime undergraduate at George Washington University in Washington, D.C., where he was awarded a full scholarship. After leaving Latham & Watkins in 2006, Graham, a Santa Monica resident, has continued his advocacy work on behalf of juvenile justice as a writer, lecturer and teacher. His work and that of others on behalf of Mario Rocha was featured in the award-winning documentary ‘Mario’s Story,’ which aired on Showtime. Visit: www.mariostory.org.
Seniors Awarded Post Cup
Photo by Steve Galluzzo, Sports Editor
In a year full of ups and a sprinkling of downs, Palisades High seniors Kene Izuchukwu and Erika Martin received the ultimate “high” last Thursday evening when they were presented Palisadian-Post Cup Awards as the school’s outstanding senior athletes for 2009-10. Izuchukwu was captain of the boys’ varsity volleyball team, which came within two points of capturing the City Section Division I championship back in May. After leading the Dolphins in kills, blocks, digs and hitting percentage, the outside/opposite hitter was voted City Co-Player of the Year–which was one of his goals when the season started. “I’m most proud of helping my team win the City championship [as a sophomore] in 2008,” Izuchukwu said. “This year, my goals were to win City again, earn Player of the Year and to play in my first state regional tournament.” Amazingly, Izuchukwu has a 41-inch vertical leap that enables him to hit over blockers, instead of trying to hit through them. It may take all summer to repair the dents in the gym floor as a result of his thunderous spikes. One such spike earned he and his teammates a free pizza early in the season. “Our coach offers us a pizza party if anyone can hit a defender in the face off of a spike,” Izuchukwu explained. “The first time we played Venice I was able to hit one of their players in the face on match point, so we got our pizza party.” Izuchukwu lives in Ladera Heights. He was born in Albany, but grew up in Atlanta and Buffalo before moving to Los Angeles and enrolling at Paul Revere Middle School as a sixth-grader. He admitted he was ‘humbled’ by winning the Post Cup and that all of his hard work this spring has been worth it. “One way to show leadership in volleyball is to be exemplary,” he said. “Every practice I tried to play my hardest and show my teammates that even though I was the best player I still understood that I needed to work hard all the time.” Following in the footsteps of former Dolphins teammates Scott Vegas (2008) and Matt Hanley (2009), Izuchukwu chose UCLA for its academics and Division I volleyball status. He also visited UC San Diego, NYU and Harvard, but ultimately decided Westwood was the right fit to begin his collegiate career. “Volleyball is 90 percent mental to me,” he said. “I know when I have the right mindset my physical abilities will easily complement it. I can be happy with a win, but I’m not truly satisfied unless I play well.” Citing AP Government and Politics as his favorite class because ‘I enjoy learning and analyzing the way the U.S. Government works,’ Izuchukwu is eager to begin the next phase of his life. What he said he’ll remember most about this season is proving people wrong by reaching the City finals–something the Dolphins were not expected to do. “Kene is the best player in the entire City,” Palisades Coach Chris Forrest said. “He’s our captain, he’s our leader, he’s the guy we look to when we need a kill. He’s been first-team All-City three years in a row now, so that speaks to his ability.” Martin, meanwhile, is largely responsible for fueling the resurgence of Palisades’ track & field program. For the past two seasons she has been the cornerstone for a girls’ team that captured its first City title ever last month–a meet in which she qualified for the finals in four individual events and won the 100-meter hurdles in 14.74 seconds. “A year ago I sat in the stands at state finals and told myself that my senior I would be on the track,” Martin recalled. “On paper, I wasn’t supposed to qualify, but I ran the best race of my life and I made it.” Martin lives in Palisades Highlands. She moved to town when she was 7, spending half of her second-grade year at Marquez Elementary and the other half at Seven Arrows, where she stayed through third grade. She switched to Calvary Christian School the next year, remaining there through eighth grade. “I’m most proud of being a part of being part of a team that made Pali history,” said Martin, who will be competing in the ACC as a heptathlete at Wake Forest, which she picked over Duke, Syracuse, Penn and Vanderbilt. “There are so many talented girls on the team and together we accomplished our goal. Pali’s never been seen as an intimidating team at big meets, but this year people knew who we were.” Martin was MVP of the girls’ soccer team as a sophomore before giving the sport up to concentrate on track and field. She was seventh in the heptathlon and a finalist in the 300 hurdles at the Arcadia Invitational this spring, breaking the school record in that event by a full three seconds. She also won both the long jump and 100 hurdles at the South Bay Championships. “Track is mostly mental,” she said. “The physical training is done and that can’t change but fighting your mind when you don’t want to run or managing nerves is difficult. I’m more satisfied with a personal best than winning an event because it’s impossible to control the competition but you can control your own races.” Martin’s best event is the hurdles, where her technique is nearly flawless. She has left her share of scorch marks in the blue track at Stadium by the Sea, blessed with a rare combination of speed, power and grace. She describes her sport, however, as “scary” and one of her scariest moments came early in the season. “I had to run a meet this year with my glasses instead of contacts,” she said. “My depth-perception was completely off and it was the scariest hurdle race of my life.” Martin described winning the Post Cup as an “honor.” Her favorite class was U.S. history with Mr. King because “his enthusiasm for the subject entertains and makes students want to learn.” Perhaps no one is more gratified by her success than longtime Pali track coach Ron Brumel: “Erika was the spearhead of our championship season. I can see her scoring points on the national level because she’s nowhere near over-trained and her learning curve is very steep. In my opinion, she could also be a world-class triple jumper, even though she never did it in high school.” When they receive their diploma’s at Thursday’s graduation they will have completed one journey and taken their first steps into another. Both of these Post Cup winners, however, have a leg up on the competition.
CARDIO Gets to CORE
Photo by Rich Schmitt, Staff Photographer
Sixteen weeks ago, knowing that the Palisades-Will Rogers 5/10K was fast approaching, fitness instructor Jennifer Levi started a training group for women interested in running Pacific Palisades’ annual Fourth of July race. Called CARDIO CORE, the group consists entirely of local residents and meets every Tuesday morning in preparation for this year’s race. “So many of my mom friends here said they wanted to run the 10K but were scared, nervous, or had never done it,” said Levi, an ACE Certified personal trainer and Spin instructor who has run either the 5K or 10K for the past 14 years (except for two years when she was pregnant). “It’s $15 a class and goes from 9:15 to 10:30 a.m. We meet at various spots around town–Will Rogers State Historic Park, Will Rogers State Beach, Palisades Recreation Center–and we do interval training, up and down hills at Temescal, the Will Rogers switchbacks and the Huntington loop. I took the entire group on the 10K route last week for the first time. We also spend about 20 minutes of core work and sculpting exercises. I have anywhere between 6-10 women at a time and they’re all very excited to run on July 4.” Levi and her husband Dan moved to the Palisades in 2003. They live in the Marquez area and have two children, Adelle (5), and Braun (3), both of whom attend Methodist Preschool of Pacific Palisades. Adelle will be starting kindergarten at Palisades Elementary in the fall. “I just love the spirit of the race,” said Levi, who also teaches classes at Revolution Fitness on Montana Avenue in Santa Monica and won her age group and placed third overall among women at the Redondo Beach Triathlon last week. “I also have a big rivalry with two local men every year. David Houston (owner of Barney’s Beanery) and Scott Denham challenge me but they can never beat me,” Levi said. “David has resorted to wearing t-shirts every year saying, ‘Beat Jennifer Levi.’ You have to love local Palisades spirit!” Levi’s best 10K time in her hometown race was 41:30 in 2005. She ran the grueling 6.2-mile course in 44:03 last summer, good enough for first place in her age division. “I think it’s a great way to start building local spirit, competitive fun and human interest leading up to our big day,” Levi said. “I encourage women who want to run July 4 to meet us Tuesday morning.” For CARDIO CORE training information, e-mail levi.jennifer@gmail.com. Presented by the Palisades Will Rogers Ridge Runners and Palisades Optimist Club, the 33rd annual race will begin promptly at 8:15 on the morning of July 4 at the entrance to the Palisades Recreation Center. The 10K course, considered one of the toughest in California, weaves through the Will Rogers switchbacks, west on Sunset and back to the Rec Center. The 15th annual half-mile Kids’ Fun Run through Huntington neighborhoods will follow at 9:15 a.m. Mail-in pre-registration ($35 for 5/10K, $25 for Kids’ Run) is this Saturday, June 26. The deadline for online pre-registration ($35 for the 5/10K, $25 for Kids’ Run) is midnight Pacific Standard Time next Tuesday, June 29. Packet pick-up will be at Benton’s The Sport Shop (1038 Swarthmore) July 2-3 from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The deadline for online late registration ($45 for 5/10K, $30 for Kids’ Run) is midnight next Thursday, July 1.
Pali Blue Win Pony Crown
In an epic finale between the league’s top two teams, Palisades Blue stormed back from several large deficits to win the Pony Division championship Friday night at the Field of Dreams. Coached by David Kahn and Bill Elder, top-seeded Pali Blue rallied from 7-0 and 8-2 deficits to stun the second-seeded Metro Toros, 11-10, and finish the season with a stellar 20-4 record in the 12-team league. “I’ve been coaching for 12 years and this was the best game I’ve ever been involved in,” Kahn said. The team of local 13- and 14-year-olds eliminated Pali White in the quarterfinals and routed Mira Costa in the semifinals while Metro (10-3) had vanquished Pali Red on its way to the championship game. Following uncharacteristic fielding errors, Blue found themselves trailing 7-0 going into the bottom of the third inning, when Truman Hanks led off with Blue’s first hit of the game and Hudson Ling followed with the first of his three walks. After a double play and two more walks, Brett Elder’s two-out single scored two runs and closed the gap to five runs. Elder relieved Ling in the third and held the Toros’ imposing lineup to just one more run through the top of the fifth. In the bottom half, with Blue trailing 8-2, Ling led off with a walk. After two strikeouts, clean-up hitter Preston Clifford and Elder drew back-to-back walks after working 3-2 counts. Tyler McMorrow also drew a walk to force home a run. Center fielder George Mitchell followed with a two-run single to left field and his daring dash to steal second on the next pitch caused the catcher to throw wildly into center field, allowing McMorrow to score from third. Left fielder Joe Fasano almost added a home run, but his drive to left field was run down and caught. Three Toros hits upped their lead to 10-6 in the top of the sixth, but just when it seemed Metro was about to add on, Mitchell saved at least one run with an athletic running catch in center field and a deft scoop by first baseman Julian Hart on an errant throw from third ended the Toros’ threat. Blue had come from behind seven times previously this season, so the team remained confident even when Metro brought in its hard-throwing closer in the bottom of the frame. The top of the order’Ling, second baseman Alex Kahn and Hart’all reached base. Then, a clean single to left field by Clifford scored one run and a sacrifice fly to right by McMorrow plated another. As the home crowd stood and cheered, Mitchell delivered a clutch single to left field. Hart bolted for home as the ball eluded Metro’s left fielder and rolled all the way to the fence, allowing Clifford to score the tying run. After falling behind 1-2, utility player Nicky Baron slapped a single to center field, scoring Mitchell with the go-ahead run. Fans and players alike were on their feet as Elder took the mound for the top of the seventh inning with Blue suddenly ahead 11-10. He calmly struck out the first batter with a nasty curve, but an infield error and a stolen base put the tying run in scoring position. Elder bore down and struck out the final two batters to end the game, giving him eight strikeouts total. Pali Blue’s win was that much more impressive given that they were without key pitcher Anthony Poulos, who was injured during the team’s first playoff game, and hard-hitting infielders Clay Davis and Connor Page were unavailable. It was the second title for head coach Kahn and the fifth for assistant coach Elder. It was one that neither they nor their players will ever forget.
Koplin Shines on Ice
Nine-year-old Grace Koplin entered four events in the Los Angeles Figure Skating Club Showcase June 12-13 at Pickwick Ice Arena in Burbank and she medaled in all of them. Koplin, who will be going into sixth grade at Seven Arrows, came in first place in extemporaneous and character, took second in dramatic and was fourth in light entertainment while competing at the star level. * * * * Palisades High’s Grant Stromberg finished first out of 864 runners in the Culver City 10K last Saturday, breaking the course record by clocking 34:17. Drake Johnston ran the 5K and placed fifth out of 671 runners with a time of 16:43. * * * * Jon Moscot, a Post Cup Award winner at Palisades High last year, signed with Pepperdine University on Monday. A freshman pitcher at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo this spring, he was the ace of the Cougars’ staff with a 6-2 record and 2.04 earned run average in 60+ innings.
Blues Suffer First Defeat
Sophie Schmidt scored off of a pass from Jodi-Ann Robinson five minutes into the second half and the Vancouver Whitecaps held on to defeat the Pali Blues, 2-1, Saturday afternoon at Stadium by the Sea. It was the Blues’ first loss since joining the W-League in 2008. The local side had gone unbeaten in 33 straight matches, but now has dropped to second place in the Western Conference–three points behind Vancouver. Vancouver (3-0-2) scored first in the 24th minute on a goal by Monica Lam-Fiest, her first in W-League play. Winners of the last two W-League titles, the Blues (2-1-2) netted the equalizer one minute later following a Whitecaps turnover when Cammi Levin set up U.S. international striker Alex Morgan for her first league goal. The teams meet again this Sunday afternoon in Vancouver.
Pali Elementary Party Raises Nearly $150K
With state budget cuts continuing to erode basic services, funding for education has become a black-and-white issue for every public school. Literally so for Palisades Charter Elementary, which staged its annual Black & White Party and Silent Auction on April 16. As school parent Paul Nagle explained, this annual fundraiser used to support enrichment programs such as music, drama, computers, art, science and P.E. But Black & White 2010, he said, had to focus on the essentials, including funding to hire two teachers for this fall. Principal Joan Ingle told the Palisadian-Post that she was proud of the efforts of her parents and teachers, who were among the 300 guests partying at Bergamot Station in Santa Monica. “My parents help so much,” Ingle said, and their financial support “is really paramount.” This year’s B&W fundraising, totaling nearly $150,000, will enable Ingle to lower class sizes by hiring the two teachers. “Our parents outdid themselves this year, helping us raise almost 20 percent more than last year, [which is impressive] in a down year,” said Joy Barnett, who co-chaired the event with Tricia Ercoli. Held at Pier 59 Studios, this was by all accounts the school’s most ambitious fundraiser yet, as Barnett’s husband, On Stage Talent Group founder Matt Barnett, enlisted the band Grooveline to perform covers of Coldplay and U2 songs. Parents and teachers, looking chic in black, socialized over hors d?oeuvres from Pacific Palisades-area eateries and champagne-based cocktails courtesy of Pearl Dragon. Despite the festive atmosphere, parents were understandably concerned about the prospect of diminished state funding for education. “You can feel the tension this year,” said Sara Collins, whose friend, fellow school parent Sue Quinn, was in agreement about the anxieties swirling among parents, teachers and administrators at every public school in the Palisades and the pressure to raise money to bolster stressed budgets. But while the subtext was serious, this was, after all, a party. Paul Nagle, joined by his wife Daphne, was having a fun time, as were Palisadians Helen and Mike Seo, who had attended the previous two B&W benefits. They have a daughter, Julliette, in fifth grade and a son, Christian, in seventh grade. “These parties are all good,” said Helen Seo, “but this one is more hip, more fun. We’ve never had a live band before.” The pinch of the economy’s downturn didn’t stop Palisades Elementary parents from fundraising and donating to the cause. “Our parents were relentless in donating items [for the auction] and finding donors,” Joy Barnett said, adding that 650 items were auctioned off. Parent Keri Kraft said she attended her first B&W because “I want to support the school and I’d rather have my money going to a public than private charity. “I love the school, I love the principal, I love the teachers,” added Kraft, whose son Brendan, 5, is in kindergarten. Fifth-grade teacher Tanya Angeletopoulos socialized with a small group of her peers in their 20s and 30s. “This is a very uplifting event,” she said, “and the fact that the money all goes back to the school is great. When parents support us, it always makes our job easier.” Organizers Barnett and Ercoli noted that when they approached local restaurants for support, “they jumped on board without hesitation. In turn, we constantly told parents to remember our sponsors, so that they [the restaurants] find value returning to them,” Ercoli said. “It’s a win-win.” Caterers served hors d’oeuvres from Caffe Delfini (asparagus soup shots), Tivoli Cafe (chicken panini), Pearl Dragon (potstickers), Pinocchio?s (caprese skewers), the Oak Room (BLTs), Sam’s by the Beach (yellowtail), Vittorio’s (antipasti) and Modo Mio (torta rustica), while Delfini, Mayberry, Casa Nostra and Taj Palace manned dinner stations. “That entire industry is hurting right now, but they went above and beyond for our school,” Barnett said. Behind the scenes, Taste chef Brian Sheard and an assistant were at the stoves, trying to keep with demand for his Highlands restaurant’s chicken paillard skewers and truffle mac and cheese bites. “We want to be a family-oriented restaurant and this is one way to establish a good relationship with the community,” said Sheard, whose wife, Nicole, is Pali Elementary’s assistant principal. Alongside Chef Sheard was Palisades High senior Sam Dubin, 17, who was gaining community service credit. “This was a truly collaborative effort,” said Barnett, who praised her co-chair, Ercoli, as “our foundation.” Not to be overlooked amid the fundraising, everybody’s commitment yielded an entertaining evening for the parents. “It’s always fun when we get to go out without the kids,” Helen Seo said, laughing. Michael@palipost.com
CLASSIFIED ADS FOR THE WEEK OF JUNE 17, 2010
OUR OFFICES WILL BE CLOSED MONDAY, JULY 5, FOR INDEPENDENCE DAY. THE CLASSIFIED DEADLINE WILL BE THURSDAY, JULY 1, AT 11 A.M.
HOMES FOR SALE 1
BURBANK HOME near Disney Studios for sale by owner. Very clean 2 bedroom, 1 bath, large living room. Large kitchen with built-in appliances & work island plus wetbar. Nice bathroom. French doors from both bedrooms open to private backyard, detached garage. (661) 270-9231
LAND WANTED 1f
LONG-TIME PALISADES FAMILY seeks land to build home (one or more). Contact Howard at (310) 454-3704
FURNISHED HOMES 2
WONDERFUL LIGHT & SPACE. Peaceful canyon views. 1 bed/bath w/ flowing living areas (1,400 sq. ft.). Protected patio w/ spa. Totally furnished & equipped for immediate move-in. Flexible terms. Monthly @ $2,400-$2,900. (310) 454-2568
EXECUTIVE RENTAL! MOVE RIGHT IN! Immaculate, fully furnished, 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath. Pool, gym, spa, near trailheads, mountain view, minutes to the beach. (310) 459-9111
UNFURNISHED HOMES 2a
DUPLEX FOR RENT. 1 bdrm + fireplace, 1 bath, quiet residential area near village. $2,650/mo. (310) 738-4400
2 BEDROOM, 1.5 BATHROOMS. Traditional alphabet street house. 930 Hartzell Street, Pacific Palisades. $3,500/mo., 12 month lease. Call (310) 570-3435 or (310) 454-9110
1 BED. GUESTHOUSE’LARGE ‘ $2,500/mo. Utilities included, new kitchen, new bath, walk to village, near bluffs, carport, YARD. VERY PRIVATE. (310) 586-1946
HOUSE BY ZUMA BEACH. 3 bedroom, 3 bath, office, bonus room, large yard w/ fruit trees, private beach & tennis courts. $4,900/mo. (310) 457-1160
UNFURNISHED APARTMENTS 2c
TWO BEDROOM, ONE BATH, sunny & roomy upper floor, glimpse of bay, walk to daily errands. Small pet considered. Available now. $2,200/mo. Call Michael, (310) 883-8049
PALISADES 1 BEDROOM apt. Large, remodeled, carpet, gas stove, refrigerator, one year lease, new paint, laundry, storage, covered parking. No pets, Non-smoker. $1,335/mo. (310) 477-6767
PALISADES GUEST COTTAGE: Small & charming studio apartment (10′ x 12′) with separate entrance. Built-ins, stove & fridge. $875/mo. Utilities included, street parking only, no pets. (310) 210-8455
CHARMING DUPLEX, walk to village. 2 bedroom, 1 bath. New kitchen, jacuzzi tub, hardwood floors, private yard. $2,850/mo. or make offer. Consider pets. (310) 454-4599, (310) 266-4151
REMODELED LARGE 1 BEDROOM. Balcony, minutes to village & beach. Ocean view, pool, laundry room, 2 parking, pet friendly, one year lease. $1,725/mo. (310) 454-8837 or (310) 403-5273
CONDOS, TOWNHOMES FOR RENT 2d
LOVELIER LEASE CAN’T BE FOUND! * Highlands end-unit townhm w/ gorgeous views, move-in cond, custom remodeled kitchen & baths. Custom & top-of-line. Enjoy tennis, pool, weight rm. 2+2.5+den. $4,400/mo. Agt: Betty-Jo Tilley, (310) 255-5445
OCEAN VIEW GEM! STEPS TO BEACH. (1+1) Romantic CUSTOM ocean vu. Blonde wd floors, balcony, 2 pools, Tennis/24 hr. sec./Sunset & PCH. $2,550/mo. (includes util.). Owner MIKKI, (509) 263-5873 Pacific Palisades’This won’t last!
ROOMS FOR RENT 3
SHARE CONDO with a very humorous physician in Pacific Palisades. Large room with cathedral ceilings. Bathroom with marble tile spa tub. Multiple patio balcony with mountain/ocean view. 24/7 security guarded. Heated pool, jacuzzi and health club privileges. Contact Stanley L. Goodman M.D., (310) 463-7125 or (310) 463-7826
OFFICE/STORE RENTALS 3c
CORNER WINDOW OFFICE, cathedral ceilings, 2nd floor, First Federal Bank building on Sunset, in Palisades Village, 320 sq. ft. $1,300/mo. Call Ev Maguire, (310) 600-3603 or (310) 454-0840
SPACE FOR LEASE. (310) 454-9606, (818) 458-4454. Ask for Irena.
OFFICE SUITE in the Atrium Building on Via de la Paz. 2 offices, reception area and restroom. Attractive space approx. 900 sq. ft. One year plus sub-lease. Rent negotiable. Great space. (310) 459-5353
CHARMING COURTYARD SPACE approx. 200 sq. ft. on Via de la Paz. Good location in heart of village. No Triple Net or Cam chgs. Shared parking. $950/mo. (310) 395-7272
OFFICE RENTAL. Unique Village office space. Quiet, quaint setting with village view, 4 rooms including kitchen & bath. Fantastic location. $1,695/mo. Bob, (310) 459-1220
PROFESSIONAL BUILDING. in Pacific Palisades Village for lease. Lovely and spacious suite available. 977 square feet. Reasonable rent price. Excellent lease hold improvement allowance. Please call Ness, (310) 230-6712 x105, for more details.
MISCELLANEOUS 6c
FREE COLLEGE CONSULTING. Limited time offer: Free 1-hour consultation to families of high school juniors. Helping Palisades families for more than a decade. Go to ninaswan.com, (310) 396-9106
BOOKKEEPING/ACCOUNTING 7b
PART TIME BOOKKEEPER TO GO! F/C Bookkeeper specializing in small businesses & private individuals. QB, QUICKEN & PEACHTREE PROFICIENT. PC or MAC. Excellent refs. Call Joanie, (310) 486-1055
WE OFFER BOOKKEEPING, assistant services and project management. Home or office. Organize180@aol.com, (310) 456-0157
COMPUTER SERVICES 7c
MARIE’S MAC & PC OUTCALL. I CAN HELP YOU IN YOUR HOME OR OFFICE WITH: ‘ Consultation on best hard/software for your needs ‘ Setting up & configuring your system & applications ‘ Teaching you how to use your Mac or PC ‘ Upgrades: Mac OS & Windows ‘ Internet: DSL, Wireless, E-mail, Remote Access ‘ Key Applications: MS Office, Filemaker, Quicken ‘ Contact Managers, Networking, File Sharing, Data backup ‘ Palm, Visor, Digital Camera, Scanner, CD Burning ‘ FRIENDLY & PROFESSIONAL ‘ BEST RATES ‘ (310) 262-5652
YOUR OWN TECH GURU * EXPERT SET-UP, OPTIMIZATION, REPAIR. Problem-Free Computing Since 1992. Work Smarter, Faster, More Reliably. If I Can’t Help, NO CHARGE! ALAN PERLA, (310) 455-2000
THE DETECHTIVES’. PROFESSIONAL ON-SITE MAC SPECIALISTS. PATIENT, FRIENDLY AND AFFORDABLE. WE COVER ALL THINGS MAC ‘ Consulting ‘ Installation ‘ Training and Repair for Beginners to Advanced Users ‘ Data recovery ‘ Networks ‘ Wireless Internet & more ‘ (310) 838-2254 ‘ William Moorefield ‘ www.thedetechtives.com
USER FRIENDLY’MAC CONSULTANT. User friendly. Certified Apple help desk technician and proud member of the Apple consultant network. An easy approach to understanding all of your computer needs. Offering computer support in wide variety of repairs, set-ups, installs, troubleshooting, upgrades, networking, and tutoring in the application of choice. Computer consulting at fair rates. Ryan Ross: (310) 721-2827. email: ryanaross@mac.com ‘ For a full list of services visit: http://userfriendlyrr.com/
EXPERT COMPUTER HELP ‘ On-site service’no travel charge ‘ Help design, buy and install your system ‘ One-on-one training, hard & software ‘ Troubleshooting, Mac & Windows, organizing ‘ Installations & upgrades ‘ Wireless networking ‘ Digital phones, photo, music ‘ Internet ‘ Serving the Palisades, Santa Monica & Brentwood ‘ DEVIN FRANK, (310) 499-7000
Lady4Tech. In-home technology needs. Email, banking, internet searches. Teresa, (323) 293-9911; Lady4tech@aol.com
GARAGE, ESTATE SALE SERVICES 7f
PLANNING A GARAGE SALE? an estate sale? a moving sale? a yard sale? Call it what you like. But call us to do it for you. We do the work. Start to finish. ‘ BARBARA DAWSON ‘ Estate/Garage Sale Specialist ‘ (310) 454-0359 ‘ bmdawson@verizon.net ‘ www.bmdawson.com ‘ Furniture ‘ Antiques ‘ Collectibles ‘ Junque ‘ Reliable professionals ‘ Local References
ORGANIZING SERVICES 7h
FORMER LAW FIRM MANAGER can help you get organized. Executive level business or personal assistant services. Office organizing, writing, project and event planning. Concierge services on a project or weekly basis. Call Patty, (310) 394-3085
NANNIES/BABYSITTERS 8a
NANNY AND/OR FRENCH TUTOR. Local references, experienced w/ newborns to teens, light housekeeping, strong work ethic. CA license, available now. (310) 849-0133, josiannesileu@yahoo.com. Merci!
AFTERNOON NANNY NEEDED. Family seeks afternoon help; M-F 3-7, Sat. 3-10. Driving, lt. meal prep., errands & lt. hsekpg. Must be flexbl w/ clean drive rec, excellent refs. Call Jo, (310) 454-5450
MY OUTSTANDING NANNY/housekeeper of 10 yrs is avail this July Mon.-Fri., 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., as our kids are in school full time. She drives her own SUV w/ a perfect driving record. Speaks fluent English. Does all cooking, shopping, errands & light housekeeping. She is simply the best w/ children of all ages & all household responsibilities! Please call Natalie, (310) 467-3769, or call Lorena directly, (323) 572-5306
HOUSEKEEPERS 9a
LOOKING FOR A HOUSEKEEPING JOB. 12 years experience, own transportation, legal, local references. delmycleaning.com. Call Delmy, (323) 363-9492
PROFESSIONAL MAID SERVICES. In Malibu! We make your home our business. Star sparkling cleaning services. In the community over 15 years. The best in housekeeping for the best price. Good references. Licensed. Call Bertha, (323) 754-6873 & cell (213) 393-1419. professionalmaidinmalibu@google.com
HOUSEKEEPER/BABYSITTER. Experienced, speaks English & good with animals (will walk dog). References available. Available anytime/any day. (323) 445-3124, (323) 671-0678, leave a message
HOUSEKEEPER. Looking for part-time job. Over 12 yrs. experience, excellent references, reliable, own transportation & drivers license. Willing to do errands & school pick up. Call Maria, (310) 977-0142
HOUSE CLEANING SERVICE. We clean your house or apartment. Dependable, low rates. Francis or Ramon, call us. (310) 869-3079, centenocleaning@yahoo.com
HOUSECLEANING: Confidential, honest and reliable. I can use my cleaning supplies or yours. I have experience, references & transportation. Feel free to call: Mariana (310) 435-2510, moni.hemo@hotmail.com
LOOKING FOR A HOUSEKEEPING JOB. Available now. Monday through Friday, good references & experience. Please call Celia, (323) 384-6392. celiahurtado31@yahoo.com
HOUSECLEANING. Alicia, available Thursdays and Saturdays. Cleaning supplies furnished. Call (310) 367-3214
HOUSEKEEPER AVAILABLE Tues. thru Sat. Live-out. Excellent deep cleaning, loves to cook, wonderful w/kids & animals, good refs, no driving. Call Helen, (562) 333-5579 or helenroxy1270@hotmail.com
HOUSEKEEPER AVAILABLE NOW. Extremely reliable & experienced. Strong work ethic. Self-starter. Legal w/ own transportation. Wonderful w/ children & pets too! Local refs avail. Call Tracy, (310) 980-8876
HOUSEKEEPER ‘ Available Monday through Friday. Has own car, CA DL & insurance. Local references. 10 years experience. Daisy, (323) 732-8192 or (323) 793-8287
ELDER CARE/COMPANIONS 10a
CERTIFIED CAREGIVER. Medicine administration, CPR. 10 years experience in L.A., letters of reference. Available hourly, daily, nightly or 24-hour live-in. Call Lina, (323) 770-6744
CAREGIVER ‘ In-home care. CNA. HHA. State certified. Pacific Palisades resident. Free assessment with no obligation. P/T or F/T. (310) 592-6695
GARDENING/LANDSCAPING 11
PALISADES GARDENING ‘ Full Gardening Service ‘ Sprinkler Install ‘ Tree Trim ‘ Sodding ‘ Sprays, non-toxic ‘ FREE AZALEA PLANT ‘ Cell,(310) 701-1613, (310) 568-0989
SALOMON LANDSCAPING & GARDENING SERVICE. Full gardening service. Pruning, topping, removing, new lawns, sprinklers & brush clearance ‘ 25% off for 1st month! ‘ Free estimates! (323) 641-2319
MOVING & HAULING 11b
HONEST MAN SERVICES. All jobs, big or small. Moves & hauls it all. 14 foot truck. 20th year Westside. Delivery to 48 states. (310) 285-8688
MASSAGE THERAPY 12b
MOBILE MASSAGE TREATMENTS in home, office, boat or plane. Young & old. Accredited practitioner w/ 17 yrs exper. Offering personalized therapies including: Reflexology, deep tissue, circulatory, sports & MAGNET plus several more. Chair massage, ear coning & gift certificates avail. Call LORETTA at (310) 455-1541 OR (310) 600-3505. TO YOUR HEALTH.
POOL & SPA SERVICES 13e
PALISADES POOL SUPPLY. SWIMMING POOL SERVICE & REPAIR. 15415 Sunset Blvd., P.P. 90272 (310) 459-4357. www.PalisadesPool.com
STEREO, TV, VCR SERVICES 13g
1 REMOTE CONTROL THAT WORKS! Is your entertainment system not entertaining you? We can tune up your system, bring it up to date, hide wires, mount TVs, install speakers, etc. We can even reprogram or replace your remote control so it is easy to use. Call us, we can help! Lic. #515929. Stanford Connect, (310) 829-0872
WINDOW WASHING 13h
THE WINDOWS OF OZ. Detailed interior/exterior glass & screen cleaning. High ladder work. Solar panels/power washing also avail. Owner operated. Lic., bonded & insured. Free estimates. (310) 926-7626
AUTO DETAILING 13i
DOES YOUR CELL PHONE WORK? Are you tired of going outside to use your cell phone at home? We may be able to boost your cell phone to work indoors. Call us, we can help! Stanford Connect, (310) 829-3115
CATERING 14
CHEF & EVENT MANAGER! Cordon Bleu Chef and 15 year veteran event manager wants to help you plan your event! $60 per hour. Please call or email Danielle . . . (310) 691-0578 or daniellesamendez@gmail.com
HOUSESITTING 14b
HOUSESITTING/PETSITTING. Available for short or long term. Sharp, reliable, recently retired professional. References. Susi, (310) 963-5269, susi824@aol.com
PERSONAL SERVICES 14f
LIFEGUARDS: Safety lifeguard services for your private parties and events. L.A. County and state certified lifeguards. Alex, (310) 457-0244, mwsnowboarder310@gmail.com
PET SERVICES/PET SITTING 14g
PRIVATE DOG WALKER/housesitter, Palisades & Santa Monica. S.M. Canyon resident. Please call or email Sherry, (310) 383-7852, www.palisadesdogwalker.com
HORSE BOARDING ‘ Malibu by Zuma beach. Perfect location for trail riding. Next to miles of National Parkland trails. Full care. (310) 457-1160
FITNESS INSTRUCTION 15a
HAVE FUN! GET FIT! NORDIC WALKING CLASSES. Certified Advanced Nordic walking instructor, Palisades resident teaches private/group classes in the Palisades. Weekends. (310) 266-4651
PERSONAL TRAINER 15c
Peak Performance Fitness Training. Ivan Baccarat, N.S.C.A., A.C.E. Cert. Personal Trainer. Body Shaping ‘ Strength ‘ Fat Loss ‘ Prenatal/Post Partum ‘ Cardio ‘ Kickboxing ‘ Stretch/Flexibility ‘ Plyometrics ‘ Endurance ‘ Core Work. Individualized Program Design. Balance training for older adults. 20 yrs. experience ‘ Insured ‘ Excellent references. Call for a free consultation, (310) 829-4428
TUTORS 15e
INDIVIDUALIZED INSTRUCTION. Children & adults. 20+ years teaching/tutoring exper. MATH, GRAMMAR, ESSAY WRITING & STUDY SKILLS. Formerly Sp. Ed. teacher. Call Gail, (310) 313-2530
MS. SCIENCE TUTOR. Ph.D., Experienced, Palisades resident. Tutor All Ages In Your Home. Marie, (310) 888-7145
PROFESSIONAL TUTOR. Stanford graduate (BA and MA, Class of 2000). Available for all subjects and test prep (SAT & ISEE). In-home tutoring at great rates. Call Jonathan, (310) 560-9134
MATH & CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS: COLLEGE ESSAYS, SAT/SAT II/ACT/ISEE/HSPT MATH PREP. All math subjects thru calculus. Jr. high thru college level writing skills. Fun, caring, creative, individualized tutoring. Local office in Palisades Village. Call Jamie, (888) 459-6430
EXPERIENCED SPANISH TUTOR. All grade levels ‘ Grammar ‘ Conversational ‘ SAT/AP ‘ Children, adults ‘ Great references. Noelle, (310) 273-3593, (310) 980-6071
SCIENCE & MATH TUTOR. All levels (elementary to college). Ph.D., MIT graduate, 30 years experience. Ed Kanegsberg, (310) 459-3614
GROZA LEARNING CENTER. Tutoring K-12, all subjects & reading. SAT, ISEE, HSPT, ACT, ERB, STAR. Caring, meticulous service. GrozaLearningCenter.com ‘ (310) 454-3731
MATH/SCIENCE/SAT TUTOR. Widely used by Palisades residents. Excellent references. Dozens of satisfied clients at top schools. Call Will at (510) 378-7138
CONCRETE, MASONRY, POOLS 16c
MASONRY, CONCRETE & POOL CONTRACTOR. 40 YEARS IN PACIFIC PALISADES. New Construction & Remodels. Hardscapes, landscapes, custom stone, stamped concrete, brick, driveways, retaining walls, BBQs, outdr kitchens, fireplaces, foundations, drainage, pool & spas, water features. Exlnt local refs. Lic #309844. Bonded, ins, work comp. MIKE HORUSICKY CONSTRUCTION, INC. (310) 454-4385 ‘ WWW.HORUSICKY.COM
CONSTRUCTION 16d
PALISADES CONST. SERVICES. All phase construction and remodeling. All interior and exterior construction. Additions, concrete, tile, wood work (all), brick, patios, bathrooms, fences, bedrooms, permits. We have built (2) new 2,500 sq. ft. Palisades homes in last 3 yrs. Please contact us to schedule your free consultation and free estimate. ALL JOBS WELCOME. Please call: Kevin, Brian Nunneley, (310) 488-1153. Lic. #375858 (all Palisades referrals avail.)
SEME TILE. License #920238, insured. All phases of tile work. Kitchens, bathrooms, walkways, etc. No job too small! Call Steve, (310) 663-7256. FREE estimates! Email: semetile@gmail.com & website: www.semetile.com
‘ CASALE CONSTRUCTION CO. LLC ‘ Lic. #512443 ‘ Kitchen and Bath Specialist ‘ General Contractor ‘ Residential ‘ Commercial ‘ New Construction ‘ Additions ‘ Remodeling ‘ (310) 491-0550 (o) ‘ (310) 927-1799 (c) ‘ www.reemodeling.com
ALAN PINE, GENERAL CONTRACTOR ‘ New homes ‘ Remodeling ‘ Additions ‘ Kitchen & bath ‘ Planning/architectural services ‘ Insured ‘ Local refs. Lic. #469435. (800) 800-0744 or (818) 203-8881
HGTV CONSTRUCTION/DESIGN TEAM. We are a full service construction/design team ready to remodel any room for you. We revive any room or outdoor space for you. We can bring your ideas to life. From simple affordable alterations to extensive overhauls and additions. We are the right company for you. Call (310) 877-5577 & (310) 877-5979. http://debonairrenovations.com/home/home.html
ELECTRICAL 16h
PALISADES ELECTRIC. ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR. All phases of electrical, new construction to service work. (310) 454-6994. Lic. #468437 Insured Professional Service
ELECTRICIAN HANDYMAN. Local service only. Non-lic. Please call (310) 454-6849 or (818) 317-8286
LICHWA ELECTRIC. Remodeling, rewiring, troubleshooting. Lighting: low voltage, energy safe, indoor, outdoor, landscape. Low voltage: telephone, Internet, CCTV, home theatre, audio/video. Non-lic. Refs. LichwaElectric@gmail.com, (310) 270-8596
BEST ELECTRIC. Lowest rates. 7 day. 24 hour service. Lic. #695411. Over 30 years experience. (310) 621-3905
FENCES, DECKS 16j
THE FENCE MAN ‘ 18 years quality work ‘ Wood fences ‘ Decks ‘ Gates ‘ Chainlink & patio ‘ Wrought iron ‘ Lic. #663238, bonded. (818) 706-1996
FLOOR CARE 16m
GREG GARBER’S HARDWOOD FLOORS SINCE 1979. Install, refinish. Fully insured. Local references (310) 230-4597 Lic. #455608
CENTURY HARDWOOD FLOOR ‘ Refinishing, Installation, Repairs. Lic. #813778. www.centurycustomhardwoodfloorinc.com ‘ centuryfloor@sbcglobal.net ‘ (800) 608-6007 ‘ (310) 276-6407
JEFF HRONEK, 40 YRS. RESIDENT. HARDWOOD FLOORS INC. ‘ Sanding & Refinishing ‘ Installations ‘ Pre-finished ‘ Unfinished ‘ Lic. #608606. Bonded, Insured, Workers Comp. www.hronekhardwoodfloors.com (310) 475-1414
HANDYMAN 16o
HANDYMAN ‘ HOOSHMAN ‘ Most known name in the Palisades. Since 1975. Member Chamber of Commerce. Non-Lic. Experience do it, not lic. Call for your free est. Local refs available. Hooshman, (310) 459-8009, 24 Hr.
LABOR OF LOVE carpentry, plumbing, tile, plaster, doors, windows, fencing & those special challenges. Work guaranteed. License #B767950. Ken at (310) 487-6464
LOCAL RESIDENT, LOCAL CLIENTELE. Make a list, call me. I specialize in repairing, replacing all those little nuisances. Not licensed; fully insured; always on time. 1 Call, 1 Guy: Marty, (310) 459-2692
DJ PRO SERVICES ‘ Carpentry, Handyman, Repairs. ALL PROJECTS CONSIDERED. See my work at: www.djproservices.com ‘ Non-lic. (c) (310) 907-6169, (h) (310) 454-4121
PALISADES CONSTRUCTION SERVICES. All jobs and calls welcome!! All phases of const. and home repair. A fresh alternative from the norm, very courteous, very safe, very clean!! Call for a free estimate and consultation. Please call: Kevin, Brian Nunneley, (310) 488-1153. Lic. #375858
PETER PAN HOME REPAIR. Serving all of the Westside!! (310) 663-3633. Non-lic.
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING 16p
SANTA MONICA HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING. INSTALLATION: New and old service and repairs. Lic. #324942 (310) 393-5686
PAINTING, PAPERHANGING 16r
PAUL HORST ‘ Interior & Exterior ‘ PAINTING ‘ 56 YEARS OF SERVICE ‘ Our reputation is your safeguard. License No. 186825 ‘ (310) 454-4630 ‘ Bonded & Insured
TILO MARTIN PAINTING. For A Professional Job Call (310) 230-0202. Refs. Lic. #715099
‘NOW’S THE TIME!’ to take care of your painting projects with a contractor that has 35 years of experience and great local references. ALL SEASONS PAINTING, (310) 678-7913. Lic. #571061
J W C PAINTING. Residential & commercial. Years of experience. Affordable & reliable. Local references. Lic. #914882. Free estimates. jwcpnc@yahoo.com ‘ Call Jason Childs (Charlie), (310) 428-4432
A PACIFIC PAINTING. Residential, commercial, industrial. Interior/exterior. Drywall, plaster, stucco repair, pressure washing. Free estimates. Bonded & insured. Lic. #908913. ‘Since 1979’ (310) 954-7170
PLUMBING 16t
EXPERT PLUMBER 25 YRS. EXP. Intelligent, cost effective solutions for your plumbing problems. Encompassing all aspects of residential and commercial plumbing. Reasonable, reliable, excellent references. Karl Kolpin, (310) 200-7239. Lic. #776518 B-C36 Bonded, insured.
REMODELING 16v
KANAN CONSTRUCTION ‘ References. BONDED ‘ INSURED ‘ St. Lic. #554451 ‘ DANIEL J. KANAN, CONTRACTOR, (310) 451-3540 / (800) 585-4-DAN
HELP WANTED 17
MANICURIST & HAIRSTYLIST WANTED for rental with clientele. Contact Nikki, (310) 459-1616
THE SKI CHANNEL & THE SURF CHANNEL located in the Palisades village have immediate openings for interns in programming, production & marketing. (310) 230-2050
WANTED: SECRETARY with medical transcription ability for a humorous psychiatrist. Please contact Stanley Goodman at (310) 463-7125, (818) 300-0102 or (310) 463-7826
WANTED: BOOKKEEPER for local Palisades office for a humorous physician. Please contact Stanley Goodman at (310) 463-7125, (818) 300-0102 or (310) 463-7826
PART-TIME HELPER FOR JULY. Organize closets & files. Computer skills. 2-3 hours, 4 days a week, TBA. $17. Near Village. (310) 459-6462
LICENSED MASSAGE THERAPIST to work with physician for WC/PI. Contact Stanley L. Goodman M.D., (310) 463-7125, or (310) 463-7826
SITUATIONS WANTED 17a
PERSONAL ASSISTANT. Recently returned from Europe, highly qualified administrative assistant looking for work in the Palisades area. Not only do I enjoy working as an assistant, I am really good at it, and I have all the qualities necessary to excel in such a role. Contact: Lise, (310) 266-4460
AUTOS 18b
CLEAN 2003 MAZDA MPV for family or nanny. Good condition; 65,000 miles; blue, leather, sunroof, racks, power everything. Detailed in/out. $7,500 OBO. Lara, (310) 617-3112
FURNITURE 18c
FURNITURE SALE’QUALITY ITEMS. MOVING SALE: Beautiful well made furniture for sale by Baker, Milling Road & Barbara Barry. Tables, chairs, chests, lamps & more. (310) 463-6323, Liz
MOVING SALE! Full apartment furniture for sale. Great prices, great furniture. Will negotiate. Must sell ASAP! Call (310) 497-5233
GARAGE, ESTATE SALES 18d
GIANT MOVING SALE! Friday and Saturday, June 18 & 19, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Tons of designer womens’ clothing, some w/ tags still on!! Furniture, appliances, mirrors and much more. Must sell’must move! 17060 Livorno, Pac. Pal.
PETS, LIVESTOCK 18e
Weimaraner Puppies AKC Litter * 6 rare blue Weim. male pups & 3 silver (1 male, 2 female). Smart, excellent companions, family, bird dog: $1,250 to $1,450. (310) 936-5853, Chris
MISCELLANEOUS 18g
BABY GRAND PIANO! ‘ Hi gloss black Horugel piano. Beaut finish. Needs tuning. Moving, must sell. $2,500 OBO. (310) 614-7371
MAGNIFICENT! 4 giant clams shells, 23′-25′ width and 19′ height. Must sell! Jo Ann, (310) 459-7300
PRECOR GYM EQUIPMENT Hoist V6. Must see. New gym equipment. Precor Treadmill ($1,000) and Precor Elliptical ($1,500). Hoist V6 weight system ($2,000) OBO. (310) 459-2927
Petrick Begins Chamber Presidency
Photo by Rich Schmitt, Staff Photographer
‘To keep your marriage brimming over with every last cup/Whenever you’re wrong, admit it, whenever you’re right, shut up!’ Emcee Brad Lusk offered this advice to newlywed John B. Petrick at last Thursday’s Pacific Palisades Chamber of Commerce Installation Dinner, as Petrick followed in the footsteps of his father, Bud Petrick, by becoming the Chamber’s president. They are the first father-and-son to serve in that capacity. ‘I’m looking forward to giving back to the community that supported me and made me who I am today,’ Petrick told the Palisadian-Post minutes before the gala event began at the Riviera Country Club. Petrick has had a busy month, to say the least. Newly married in May, he and wife Sara had just returned from their honeymoon in Europe two nights earlier. They had flown to Barcelona and enjoyed a 12-day cruise that included stops in Spain, France, Italy, Greece and Turkey. Onstage, the evening began when Kevin Niles, president of the Rotary Club, presented U.S. Bank (formerly Cal National) with the Chamber’s annual Beautification Award, in recognition of the bank’s new building and landscaping at the corner of Sunset and Swarthmore. Then Lusk introduced Cantor Chayim Frenkel of Kehillat Israel, who gave the invocation and recalled how he officiated at Petrick’s bar mitzvah”and wedding. Businessman Bob Ryan, adjutant at American Legion Post 283, received the Mort Farberow Businessperson Award, given to a person who reflects the three C’s that the late deli owner held dear: community, Chamber and children. Active in the Legion since 1992, Ryan also coached the JV baseball team at Palisades High for 13 seasons. Past Farberow honorees in the banquet room included Rich Wilken and the Palisadian-Post’s Roberta Donohue and Cheryel Kanan. Also in attendance: Palisades Letter Shop founder Phyllis Genovese, who, at age 95, is the only living charter member of the Chamber. Following Ryan, outgoing president Ramis Sadrieh (founder of Technology for You!) reflected on his year as Chamber president with humor. ‘It’s truly amazing how fast a year goes by,’ Sadrieh said, before joking, ‘I change my mind. I’m not leaving! I will remain president for an indefinite length of time!’ He praised the Chamber, its executive director Arnie Wishnick and office manager Marilyn Crawford as ‘family,’ and added that belonging to the Chamber is an excellent chance ‘to enjoy each other’s company while we grow each other’s companies.’ Palisadian Norman Kulla, northern district director for Councilmember Bill Rosendahl, presided over the installation of the 2010-2011 executive committee, which includes Petrick, Sadrieh, vice presidents Nicole Howard and Greg Wood, and advisors Donohue, Lusk and David Williams. The directors are Joyce Brunelle, Susan Carroll, Chris Erickson, Zara Guivi, Jennifer Lowe, Ben Meyerson and Shannon Watson. After Sadrieh received commendations from the offices of State Senator Fran Pavley, Assemblywoman Julia Brownley and County Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky, Petrick delivered his acceptance speech. ‘I got my first job here in the Palisades. I opened my first bank account here in the Palisades, and today I have many of my clients here,’ said Petrick, who is CEO of Perennial Financial Services in Brentwood. He proceeded to deliver a rousing speech that emphasized how important it is for people to ‘shop locally.’ ‘Our community in the midst of one of the worst economic crisis in modern history,’ Petrick said. ‘We see our property values declining, unemployment rising and our small business community shrinking. What was once seen as an impenetrable economic safe haven has fallen victim to the Great Recession. ‘The time for preaching [to support local business] is over,’ he continued. ‘The time for action is now. We must restore this great town to the brilliance that brings people from all across the world to live here.’ Petrick noted that while the Palisades may be taking a hit in this economy, one thing that will never disappear is ‘the tight-knit chemistry this community enjoys.’ He recalled, ‘I was a bit of a screw-up in my younger years. I gave this community numerous opportunities to turn its back on me. Amazingly, it never did. Actually, it was just the opposite. The town rallied behind me and without this community and the great people within it, who knows where I would be today.’ Watching his son up at the lectern, Bud Petrick beamed. ‘I’m honored and delighted about what he’s done,’ Bud told the Post. ‘I’m so proud of him.’ Regarding John’s wild teen years, Bud admitted that for a short time he was worried. But deep down, he knew his son had it in him to overcome such behavior. ‘I’m surprised, but the kid had character from day one,’ said Bud, who was Chamber president in 1973-74. After his serious plea, Petrick couldn’t resist ad-libbing some humor, wrapping up his speech with a reference to L.A.’s NBA-finals defeat that evening: ‘Good luck to the Lakers in game five!’ ‘Tell everyone I send them my love!’ That was the message from former Pacific Palisades Honorary Mayor Steve Guttenberg, delivered by the current honorary mayor, Gavin MacLeod. Honorary Mayors Guttenberg, John Raitt and Ted Knight had held the record for serving four years’until last Thursday, when MacLeod was installed for ‘an unprecedented fifth year as captain of our ship,’ as Lusk worded it. To much ‘Love Boat’-theme fanfare whipped up by the Ernie Hernandez Orchestra, MacLeod left his cane at the foot of the stage and took to the dais. After months of medical setbacks and painstaking recovery, a leaner yet vibrant MacLeod had a message of his own: ‘I’m still standing!’ This was MacLeod’s first public appearance since an event in his honor at the Pierson Playhouse in January, and he had a list of the women in his life to thank for his recovery, which included wife Patti as well as Mary Cole (‘I call her ‘Mrs. Palisades!”), neighbor Joyce Brunelle, and his local doctor, Roberta Smith. He also singled out the Chamber office on Antioch Street, ‘my home away from home.’ Alexys Ahn, a newcomer to the entertainment world but not at Chamber events (she sang outdoors at Holiday Ho!Ho!Ho! last December), ran away with the evening. Only seven years old and a third grader at Calvary Christian School, singer Ahn commanded standing ovations after delivering her rendition of the National Anthem and a precociously sultry performance of ‘Summertime’ in a voice that carried a maturity of someone three times her age. She even performed an original song she had written herself called ‘Everybody’s Different.’ ‘You’re different from me/I’m different from you,’ she sang to a driving beat. ‘Even if we’re different, we can get along, too!’ If the Chamber can persuade Ahn to pencil next June into her busy schedule, 2011’s Installation Dinner is guaranteed to be quite memorable.
Janet Turner Elected Council Chair
Janet Turner will begin leading the Pacific Palisades Community Council meetings on July 1, replacing chair Richard G. Cohen, who served two years. The Council elected Turner as chair for the one-year term at its June 10 meeting. She joined the Council in October 2006 as the representative of Area 3 (Marquez Knolls and Bel-Air Bay Club neighborhoods) and became vice chair last July. ‘In these difficult economic times, I believe it is important that the needs and concerns of Pacific Palisades not be ignored by the City of L.A.,’ Turner wrote in her candidate statement submitted to the Council. ‘As chair, I will be a vocal advocate for the Palisades, making sure that the Council’s decisions are heard, and lobbying for their implementation.’ A 16-year Marquez Knolls resident, Turner says that she will advocate the Council’s concerns regarding the regulation of cell-tower placement, street furniture, signage, the upcoming Hillside Manzionization Ordinance and new residential construction in town. In addition to the Council, Turner has served on the board of the Marquez Knolls Property Owners Association (MKPOA) since 2006. She and her husband, Daniel Helfgott, have their own television and movie production company, Helfgott-Turner Productions. Area 3 Representative Haldis Toppel will assume Turner’s role as vice chair. Toppel, a retiree who worked for the City of Los Angeles as an information system manager for 20 years, serves as the president of MKPOA. She acted as secretary of the Council from 2008-09. Cathy Russell, the Area 7 alternate (representing Rustic, Santa Monica, lower Rivas canyons and the Will Rogers area), will take over Steve Cron’s spot as secretary. Russell has served on the Council since 2006, first as the Area 7 representative, then as its alternate. While functioning as the representative, she served on the Sparkplug Committee for two years, the second as co-chair. Russell, who has lived in the Palisades for more than 30 years, works as a residential real estate agent with Coldwell Banker. Ted Mackie, owner of Palisades Bicycles, will continue to serve another term as treasurer. Mackie has been a member of the Council for 16 years and has spent the past 10 years overseeing the finances. All of the officers are elected for one-year terms. The chair and vice chair may not serve for more than two consecutive years, while there is no limit to the number of consecutive years the secretary and treasurer can serve.
