west valley news

Michael Almodovar named2010 Youth of the YearBy Julie Allen Communications

Canoga’s own Michael Almodovar has beennamed Youth of the Year by the Boys & GirlsClub of the West Valley.

Growing up in a gang-infested part of Arleta,Michael Almodovar succumbed to negative peerpressure and floundered in school. He becameknown as a trouble maker and was on a pathgoing nowhere.

As he reached his teens though, Michael feltincreasingly responsible for protecting and takingcare of his single mom, who worked from earlymorning to late at night. Knowing he had to takedrastic measures, he applied to the agricultural/veterinary science magnet program at CanogaPark High School (CPHS). Once there, he alsojoined the Boys & Girls Club of the West Valley’safter-school program. It was a decision thatwould change his life.

While it was hard for him to wake up very earlyto go to school on the other side of the Valley, heand his mom were relieved that he would be outof the violent and hopeless environment of hisneighborhood. At his new school, Michael joinedthe football team, whose coach and WVBGC staffmember, Ricardo Hernandez, would have aprofound influence on his life as a great mentor,helper and father figure.

Ricardo encouraged Michael to do well inschool so he could stay on the team and go to

It takes a community to start a grass-roots movement for positive changeBy Ed Crowe, West Valley News

The earliest origins of the use of “grass roots”as a metaphor are obscure but in the context of apolitical movement, is one driven by the politicsof a community.

“The term implies that the creation of themovement and the group supporting it are naturaland spontaneous, highlighting the differencesbetween this and a movement that is orchestratedby traditional power structures. Grassrootsmovements are often at the local level, as manyvolunteers in the community give their time tosupport the local party, which can lead to helpingthe national party.”

In the context of our local communities, politicsapplies to collective decisions small groups ofpeople make to hopefully affect positive changesin their communities. Often, the values instilledat home, inspire individuals to get involved.

Such is the case of Freddy Carrillo. He joinedhis local neighborhood council a few years ago

CONNECTING BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY SINCE 2004. CELEBRATING 8 YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE WEST VALLEY COMMUNITY. Volume 7 Number 2 2011

TIME SENSITIVE MATERIAL

Community-Building Begins with Positive Thinking at Home

Serving:CalabasasCanoga ParkChatsworthResedaTarzanaWest HillsWinnetkaWoodland Hills

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A view from the top of Chase Park in West Hills. An spectacular gift of Mother Nature after a day of rain onSunday, February 27, 2011.

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Employee Recognition at Topanga

Ed Crowe / Crowe Marketing Design

On February 23, 2011, business and community leader Rickey Gelb continued the legacy offriends and fellow Topanga Boosters, Michael Miller and Captain John Sherman—who originatedthe idea of hosting an annual event—to recognize the hard work and dedication of officers andcivilian employees at the Topanga Police Station. “I feel very honor today to be part of this secondannual event. I hope we can have many more for many years.” Said Rickey Gelb during his remarksas host of second annual luncheon. Five officers and one civilianemployee received the special recognitions.

See Topanga Employees of the Year on 1

Ed Crowe / Crowe Marketing Design

INSIDE

Soteras Mortgage 2Commercial / Residential

The Growth Coach 6

7

$ave BIG with Business Servicesand Classified 15

Your heart is in good hands 16

Topanga Area Police Station 2nd Annual Employees of the Year Luncheon at Maggiano’s Woodland Hills.

See Michael Almodovar on Page 5

See Community-Building on Page 3

Ed Crowe / West Valley News

Michael Almodovar and proud mom.

Freddy Carrillo received special recognition fromCongressman Brad Sherman for his community serviceas president of the Canoga Park Neighborhood Council.

Join us for the annual St. Patrick’s Celebration and Community Marchin Old Town Center Canoga Park, March 17th, 1:00PM, Madrid Theater

From the Publisher’s DeskTurmoil is all around us with news of discontent from regular folks

who are tired of tyrants or the political status quo. It’s a reflection of thetimes and a call for making adjustments or perhaps altering course.

Obviously, any adjustments or changes have to have a clear directionand purpose. Without it, we will be set adrift and get lost in the process.

This is the time when you have to put your will and fortitude inoverdrive to meet the challenges ahead and stay afloat. Nothing remainsthe same and time does not stand still. Let’s look at what is working andfind the solution that will work for each one of us.

The slow economy and new technology are changing everything. Manylost jobs are not coming back. Companies are utilizing new technologicaladvantages to run more lean and mean. What took thousands of workers

to do, now only a few hundred are required. Germany’s employment remain steady because corporateexecutives found the answer— workforce retraining.

However, an aging population and workforce have to adjust their mindset and accept that they have tobe prepared to learn new things and upgrade their skills to remain marketable. We have great resourcesavailable in the San Fernando Valley. Low cost or free business education workshops are offered at theValley Economic Development Center (VEDC) or Small Business Development Centers (SBC). Workforceretraining assistance is available at the WorkSource. See Page 13 for contact information.

It will take a positive attitude and a proactive effort. This is the time when “if you fall down six times,you get up seven, and keep going.” Yes, change course if you must but choose a good destination.

Let’s make it a great year!

PAGE 2 West Valley News Volume 7 Number 2 2011

Crowe Marketing PublisherEd Crowe Managing Editor/Creative DirectorRickey Gelb Contributing WriterSandra Gonzalez Editor CRA/LAJonathan Goldhill Contributing WriterAl Martinez Contributing WriterLance Miller Contributing Writer

The West Valley News is published monthly asan information and educational resource for smallbusinesses and community-based organizations.

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The West Valley News is open to the entirebusiness community of the San Fernando Valley.

The West Valley News is distributed by regular mailto active subscribers, via email to an electronicmailing list, and to the general public throughmore than 60 strategic, high-traffic businesslocations throughout the West Valley.

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On a personal note, my wife Sonya and I are proud to welcome a new son to our family.Our beautiful daughter Taryn got married to Nicolas Tarditti on New Year’s Eve.

It was quite a memorable event to start the year in a very happy and positive note.

May God give you both everything you want in life.HEALTH. LOVE. HAPPINESS. PROSPERITY.

West Valley News Volume 7 Number 2 2011 PAGE 3

TRIBUTE to Our ParentsTHE LEGACY, THE LESSONS, THE LOVE

A new West Valley News column honoring our parents. Write about your father, mother or both, as a tribute to them fortheir legacy, their life lessons, their love and sacrifices, and anything that made them special to you. Write 500-800 words.Send by email to [email protected]. Include a photograph (in digital format 200 ppi) and name, address,and daytime telephone. Submissions may be edited for clarity and length. Publication at the discretion of the editor.

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WINNETKA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE2011 INSTALLATION DINNER

On the evening of February 21, 2011, at the Canoga Bowl Convention Center inWinnetka, the Board of Directors of the Winnetka Chamber of Commerce celebratedits 2011 Installation Dinner. The Master of Ceremonies was Councilman Dennis Zine,who along with local business leaders, LAPD Officers, political dignitaries, andmembers of the community came together in celebration.

Councilman Zine played various roles at this event, from Master of Ceremonies,Comedian, and the evening’s official toaster to all of the great community members inattendance. Also in attendance were representatives from the offices of CongressmanBrad Sherman, State Assemblyman Bob Blumenfield, Councilman Greig Smith, andsome of LAPD and Topanga Police Station’s finest. Congratulations to Gene Giegoldtwho will continue for another year as the WCC’s President and to all of the boardmembers for all of their accomplishments!

SPECIAL AWARDS

WINNETKA BUSINESS OF THE YEARTHE VILLAGE CAFE

OUTSTANDING BOARD MEMBER OF THE YEARDARA LYNN LASKI

PRESIDENTS AWARDMARILYN ROBINSON

A Tribute to My MotherBy Roberto Crow Escala

Elsa Maria Escala de Crow (September 28, 1920 – January 22, 2011)

I’m still in a bit of shock, denial, and melancholy. One can never be truly prepared.She was my Mother.

However, as the days go by I am starting to forget all the recent pain of the last two years. I ambeginning to remember only the good things. I profoundly thank her for one of the many gifts she

gave me, my faith. It now consoles me, knowingshe is in Heaven and that I will see her again.

My Mother was an exceptional, multi facetedperson. She always said she was from another era,“otro siglo.” She never learned to drive a car, usea cell phone, turn on a computer, or even write acheck. Still, she had been an executive secretaryfor an important banker before she “retired” tohave my brother Carlos and become a mom andhomemaker. It took two to replace her at the bank.She was a deeply devout Catholic who prayeddaily. She had beautiful hand writing. She knewetiquette. She had the gift of conversation; oh didshe have that gift. I believe she could have easilyconversed with kings and presidents, which shedid. I recall her entertaining the president ofEcuador, Velasco Ibarra, at my Uncle’s home inUrdesa many summers ago. She was a publishedpoet in Ecuador and Canada. She had a fantasticmemory and could recall and recite complete

poems and verses of songs. She remembered everyone’s birthdays and anniversaries. She lovedmedicine, something she picked up from her beloved doctor brother, my Uncle Gustavo, and wasalways trying to diagnose herself. She loved hearing and telling jokes and although a veryreligious person, she also loved “off color” jokes, of course never vulgar ones. She loved to laughand had a beautiful smile. Although small in stature, she raised with discipline four sons that grew totower over her. When she called us, our response was always “Mande Mama,” command me Mother.I think I still answered her that way into my thirties. But at the same time she raised us with a lot oflove and love of Family. To this day I am very close to my brothers and greet them with a hug anda kiss on the cheek.

One thing everyone always said about my Mother was that she was a sweet person and she trulywas. I never heard her say a bad thing about anyone. Even as she deteriorated at the end she becamea favorite at Wells House and was loved by the staff. Sweet was the word they used to describe herand started calling her Mama or Grandma.

My Mother was an accomplished woman who lived a long, full life and overcame many of life’schallenges. I think her greatest accomplishment was to raise four boys into loving, responsiblefamily men. For this gift of love I will be eternally grateful to her.

Mami, te voy a extrañar hasta el día que te vea otra vez.

Con todo amor, tu hijo Roberto

George Papadopoulos (Center) and son Alexi of The Village Cafe were recognized as WinnetkaBusiness of the Year. Councilman Dennis Zine, Winnetka Chamber president Gene Giegoldtand Field Deputies for Councilman Greig Smith, Assemblymember Bob Blumenfield andCongressman Brad Sherman, presented certificates of recognition.

Winnetka Chamber president Gene Giegoldtand wife Rong.

Councilman Dennis P. Zine introduces thecolor guard

to make a difference. From an early age, Freddywas active in local community groups and thatinterest continued as a college student. Hebecame aware about the activities of the CanogaPark Neighborhood Council as an intern workingfor CRA/LA West Valley Region. He joined theCouncil as a Board member soon after. Eventuallyhe was elected Board president and held theposition for two terms. During his tenure, he wasable to make progressive changes and attract avery diverse group of new members to the Board,more reflective of the community of Canoga Parkin terms of age and ethnicity.

Another good example of community groupsworking collectively to make a difference in theirneighborhoods and business districts, are localchambers of commerce.

The Woodland Hills-Tarzana Chamber ofCommerce stands out as a progressive andcohesive group of small business owners, whogo beyond their individual interests to helpimprove the quality of life in their community.

On Saturday, March 19th, chamber staff andmembers will join neighbors, Councilman DennisP. Zine, Ralphs and Million Trees Los Angelesto plant more than 30 trees, along Ventura Blvd.near Topanga Canyon Blvd., to continue the effort

Community-buildingContinued from Page 1

of greening the community. To volunteer of formore information, please contact MTLA at (213)473-9950 or email [email protected].

Community-building does begin at home,fueled by positive thinking and the desire towork together to make a difference.

If we take the literal meaning of planting atree, individually or collectively, the effort,the nurturing, the constant care, eventuallyresults in a beautiful and thriving specimen.

You can make your community a beautiful andthriving specimen by getting more involved.

West Valley News Volume 7 Number 2 2011

United Chambers of CommerceA Coalition of 32 Business Organizations, including 22 Chambersof Commerce representing over 21,000 businesses.

5121 Van Nuys Boulevard, Suite 208Sherman Oaks, CA 91403T 818-981-4491 F 818-981-4256

Build your business while building your community.Join a Chamber of Commerce today.

How does your business benefit by being a memberof your local chamber?

• Opportunities to market your business.• Great networking opportunities and events.• Get involved with local legislative issues.• Meet local business and political activists.• Be involved in a variety of community events.

For a complete list of member chambers,visit www.unitedchambers.org

Agoura/Oak Park/Conejo Valley Chamber(818) 889-3150 | Fax (818) [email protected]

Calabasas Chamber(818) 222-5680 | Fax (818) [email protected]

Canoga Park/West Hills Chamber(818) 884-4222 | Fax (818) [email protected]

Chatsworth/Porter Ranch Chamber(818) 341-2428 | Fax (818) [email protected]

Encino Chamber(818) 789-4711 | Fax (818) [email protected]

Granada Hills Chamber(818) 368-3235 | Fax (818) [email protected]

Greater San Fernando Valley Chamber(818) 989-0300 | Fax (818) [email protected]

Regional Black Chamber818.464.3484 | Fax [email protected]

Reseda ChamberContact Nancy at (818) 989-0300 for [email protected]

SFV Filipino-American Chamber(818) 780-9197 | (818) [email protected]

Sherman Oaks Chamber(818) 906-1951 | Fax (818) [email protected]

Winnetka Chamber(818) 340-2282 | Fax (818 [email protected]

Woodland Hills/Tarzana Chamber(818) 347-4737 | Fax (818) [email protected]

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Maureen M. WhalenNew Chief Executive Officer of theCalabasas Chamber of Commerce“We are excited to welcome Maureen Whalen to the

Calabasas Chamber for her expertise in businessdevelopment and her long history of advocacy on thepart of business owners and leaders,” said BrendaJohnson, Calabasas Chamber Chairman of the Board.

In a career spanning two and a half decades, Whalenhas helped increase the effectiveness of business,marketing and public relations strategies for numerousorganizations in both the for-profit and non-profitsectors. She has worked with such notable non-profitsas the March of Dimes and Ronald McDonald HouseCharities, and coordinated the feasibility studyresulting in a new college-prep high school for at-riskkids in Sacramento. She has been contracted to facili-tate management-level training programs for Bank of America, and has developed large-scale special events,including wine festivals and music events throughout California. “As we interviewed many fine candidates whoapplied for the position, we were continually impressed with Maureen’s range and depth of her work experienceand knowledge of Chambers. Maureen will be an effective leader for the Chamber and bring it to new heights,”stated Carol Washburn.

Whalen’s interest in “the business of business” began early in her life. She credits her father, a state govern-ment worker, for her early fascination with the way that organizations work. “In high school, I had an open invi-tation to accompany my dad to his continuing education seminars. I always gravitated toward those that had todo with communications, specifically the way that people relate to each other within the context of a business,”states Maureen. That early interest led her to study Communications and Business at CSU Sacramento. Shecontinued her studies at a graduate level at the then National Institute for Higher Education in Dublin, Ireland(now Dublin City University), and several years later took up graduate work in Human Resources andOrganization Development at the University of San Francisco.

Maureen has been active with a number of Chambers in California including Sacramento, Long Beach, SimiValley and Greater Conejo Valley. “I am pleased to pick up the reins from Carol Washburn,” stated Whalen.“Carol has played a vital role in our community from the incorporation of Calabasas as a city, to building over adecade of success for the Calabasas Chamber of Commerce. The board is comprised of highly capable andvibrant business persons. I simply need to keep doing what has been done, and then build upon theframework of success that Washburn and the board members — past and current — have built. The ground-work for further growth and business development has been laid,” stated Maureen.

Maureen looks forward to getting to know each of the Chamber members personally, and to helping enhanceand support each and every business.

HERE’S A MILLIONDOLLAR IDEAA fleet of Red Cars is needed to take

people around a designated historical route inthe West Valley. The shopping malls and futuredevelopments will be along the path. Historicallandmarks along the Sherman Way corridor andother areas will be part of the tour.

This is something from the past that will begreat for the future. Now is the time to investon the idea. A million dollar idea.

The Greater San Fernando Valley Chamber ofCommerce kicked off the celebration of its 100thAnniversary Wednesday, February 9 at BASH –Business & Social Hour. With over 50 exhibitorsand over 400 people attending the Valley-widetrade show and mixer, the Chamber’s Centennialcelebration is now in full swing.

Opening the event with a champagne toast andribbon cutting, CEO Nancy Hoffman Vanyekexpressed her appreciation to the many Chambermember businesses that have sustained theorganization and looks forward to celebratingthroughout the 2011. “As part of our 100thAnniversary, we set a goal to recognize ourmembers for their contributions to the Chamberand the San Fernando Valley economy. Join usas we celebrate it throughout year.”

A BIG MILESTONE FOR THE GREATERSFV CHAMBER OF COMMERCECentennial Celebration Kicked Off at BASH

About the Chamber

The Greater San Fernando Valley Chamberbegan in 1911 as the Van Nuys Chamber ofCommerce. In 1989, the organization mergedwith the Panorama City/Sepulveda Chamberand since then has attracted businesses fromall regions in the Valley.

Visit www.sanfernandovalleychamber.com formore information about the year-long CentennialCelebration.

“It was a nice event. I got more leads from theBASH than I have from my last couple years ofmembership.” Said Hank Yuloff owner ofPromotionally Minded / SendOutCards, whowas one of more than 50 exhibitors at the BASH.

Nancy Hoffman Vanyek, CEO Greater SFV Chamber

Hank Yuloff, Promotionally Minded / SendOutCards

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college. Ricardo’s wife, Stacy, who ran theCollege Bound program, also was influential.“It finally hit me how important my grades werewhen Stacy first talked to me about going tocollege,” Michael says.

After getting mostly Bs and Cs in his first yearat CPHS, Michael took advantage of the Boys &Girls Club of the West Valley’s tutoring program.Through hard work and tutoring, his gradesslowly rose to As and Bs by his junior year.Not only did he remain eligible to play football,Michael started to help tutor other kids andbecame eligible to attend state colleges.

Michael also became active in the Club,making close, positive friends, meeting othercaring staff members, and experiencing newcultures and places. He also joined Keystone,a community service program, which along withhis magnet program, taught him to value hardwork, community service and team work.

At 18 years of age, Michael Almodovar is nowa senior, the captain of the varsity football teamand hopeful about his future. “The Club has notonly helped me so much in so many ways andgiven my mom peace of mind knowing I’m safeand taken care of, it’s given me a second chanceat a better life. The Club is who I am, it’s whatgot me here.”

We are proud to name Michael Almodovar theBoys & Girls Club of the West Valley’s Youthof the Year.

Michael AlmodovarContinued from Page 1

YOUR HEALTH

Cancer incidence rate has increased from 1 person in 500 in 1900, to 1 person in 3 today! Why?

Organic whole foods have formed the basis of human diet through the ages. Only in the twentiethcentury did we begin to be subject to countless man-made chemicals in food and in the environ-ment. One foundation for health is to eat foods that provide exactly the amount of energy requiredto keep the body in perfect balance. Today just to disarm the alien and often toxic chemicals, a greatdeal of energy is wasted, some of which cannot be eliminated and so accumulates in body tissues.It is now impossible to avoid all of these substances, as there is nowhere on this planet that is notcontaminated some way as a result of the by-products of our modern chemical age!

We can choose though, to eat organic foods whenever possible. By supporting the productionof organic foods, not only we help our bodies today, but also minimize the damage of chemicalswhich poses a real threat to the future of humanity!

According to medical expert Dr. John Lee, breast cancer is occurring more frequently and earlierin women’s life than in the mid eighty’s. Mammograms show micro-calcifications in the breast thatnever have been picked up before. Dr. Lee believes the major cause of breast cancer is unopposedestrogen. There are many reasons for this condition, among them is the chemical “Xenoestrogen”from the environment, found in pesticides, that can damage breast tissue and lead to increased riskof cancer later in life.

The effect of Xenostrogen in men is through blocking the action of the hormone Testosterone andcausing anti-androgenic symptoms ( similar to menopause in women ). Dr. Malcolm Carruthers, theworld authority on testosterone research is convinced that andropause is connected to decrease inlevels of free testosterone. To what extent the average intake of pesticide residue is contributing todecreasing of free testosterone in men, cannot be measured.

The amount of fruits and vegetables consumed by the average person in a year has the equivalentof up to 1 gallon of pesticides sprayed on it which according to professor William Rea the directorof the Envol Health Center in Dallas, Texas, is linked to asthma, eczema, migraine irritable bowelsyndrome, rhinitis and more. Washing produce with water has little effect on these residues, asmost are formulated to resist being washed off by the rain. The only way to reduce your exposureto pesticides in your diet is choosing organic as often as you can.

Since 1950 over 3500 man-made chemicals have found their way into manufactured food throughpesticides, antibiotics, hormone residues in staple foods such as grains and meat. Many of thesechemicals are anti-nutrient meaning they stop nutrients from being absorbed and used in our body.Once the body’s threshold is exceeded, toxins accumulate in fat tissue bringing on muscle achesand fatigue, arthritis, and of course extra pounds to our weight.

Organic crops according to national standard set by the US Department of Agriculture must beproduced without conventional pesticides, herbicides, synthetic fertilizers, bio engineering and soilionizing radiations. Organically raised animals must be given organic food and kept free of growthhormones and antibiotics. Organic farm animals must have access to the outdoors includingpastureland for grazing.

FRUITS AND VEGTABLES HIGHEST AND LOWEST IN PESTICIDES

Highest in pesticides:

Apples, Bell peppersCelery, CherriesGrapes (imported),NectarinesPotatoes,Red raspberriesSpinach,Strawberries

WHY ORGANICBy Lalai Saebi, Certified Nutritional Consultant

Lowest in Pesticides

Asparagus, AvocadosBananas, BlueberriesBroccoli, CauliflowerCitrus, Grapes (California)Kiwi, MangosMelons, OnionsPapaya, PineapplesPeas (sweet)

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Every Saturday 9AM-1PMOwensmouth north of Sherman Way

Lalai Saebi is a certified nutritional consultant and managing director of Innate Healing Support. Her office is located at16944 Ventura Blvd., Suite 4, Encino, CA 91316. Contact her at 818-510-1086 or [email protected].

WOODLAND HILLSTREE PLANTING EVENTSET FOR MARCH 19THTop Los Angeles officials—along with members

of the city’s Million Trees LA (MTLA) project,Councilman Zine’s Community Coalition, ExecutiveDirector of the Woodland Hills-Tarzana Chamber ofCommerce—will team up with scores of communityresidents on Saturday, March 19th to plant over 30healthy, young trees along Ventura Boulevard betweenCanoga and Topanga Avenues. The effort is beingsponsored by Ralph’s and Million Trees LA, inpartnership with Councilman Dennis P. Zine andthe Woodland Hills Community Coalition.

The event, in which both adults and youth volun-teers are invited to participate, begins at 8 a.m. withparticipant registration, refreshments and a DJ in theoutdoor area which is to be announced. The morningwill include a welcome from L.A. City CouncilmanDennis P. Zine and other dignitaries, and a brieftree-planting demonstration conducted by MTLAarborists. Digging tools will be provided.

Then 30+ planting teams supervised by an anMTLA conservation expert, will head out onto VenturaBoulevard sidewalks to plant trees already positionedat the designated locations. Volunteers will providemuscle for the digging process.

“Increasing the desirability of our community willdirectly impact our businesses” states Diana Williams,project chair for the tree planting. “These are smallsteps toward the vision of the pedestrian friendlyneighborhood that we have planned. We hope torelaunch the sense of pride in ownership to get useven closer to that vision.”

Councilman Zine, Million Trees LA and theWoodland Hills-Tarzana Chamber of Commerce are tobe commended along with the numerous Boulevardmerchants and organizations for their participationin the tree planting project.

Major Villaraigosa to Help Kick OffCelebration of Canoga Park 100thMARCH 15, 2011 – 6:30 PM

Clyde Porter’s West Valley Playhouse


SUPPORTING THE BRAVE OFFICERS THAT PROTECT AND SERVE OUR COMMUNITY.

www.topangaboosters.org

PLEASE JOIN US AS A MEMBER

The Topanga Boosters is a volunteer support organization made up of business and community leaders. Its primarymission is to increase the effectiveness and morale of the officers and staff of the Topanga Police Station by raisingmoney for community services, materials, and equipment not generally supplied by the City of Los Angeles.

TAKE AN ACTIVE ROLE

There are many ways how you as a stakeholder in the community can be part of the Topanga Boosters.

LAPD Good Neighbor Any Amount

LAPD Residential Supporter $60.00 per year

LAPD Business Supporter $120.00 per year

The Topanga BOOSTERS is a 501(c)(3) Tax Exempt Organization. Tax ID# 36-4622976

For more information about becoming a member of the Topanga Boosters as a resident or business owner, contactEd Crowe, Vice President of Community Relations at (818) 231-4454 or at [email protected].

The Growth CoachBecoming a Strategic Business OwnerBy Jonathan Goldhill and Daniel M. Murphy

Editor’s note: Beginning with the January issue of the West Valley News, we will publish, in monthly install-ments, the content of a book by Daniel M. Murphy, CEO & Founder of The Growth Coach. The title of the book is“Becoming a Strategic Business Owner. A Proven Process to Enhance Your Strategic Mindset.”

__________

CHAPTER 1Face RealityPoints to Ponder

• We are slaves to whatever we don’t understand. Vernon Howard

• Honesty is the first chapter of the book of wisdom. Thomas Jefferson

• Nothing about ourselves can be changed until it is first accepted. Sheldon Kopp

• We lie loudest when we lie to ourselves. Eric Hoffer

• The first and best victory is to conquer self. Plato

Entrepreneurial Reflection

Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.

For many of you, in as little as two to three years (and regardless of the level of financial success achieved),your entrepreneurial dream of freedom, independence and wealth has started to warp into a partial nightmare.Your wish to be master of your destiny has degenerated into your being a slave to your business, your employ-ees and your customers. The fire in your belly has been replaced by a growing uneasiness in your gut.

Habitually, you are still working too many hours, wearing too many hats, and handling too many things. Sadly,the entrepreneurial lows have become deeper, last longer and are more frequent. As your business has grown,your fun and fulfillment have not. In fact, most of you suffer from the generalized feelings of anxiety, mentalfatigue, and of being trapped in the business. For sake of simplicity, I have termed these feelings, the businessowner blues.

For years, you have deluded yourself. You kept telling yourself that one day you would get caught up, slowdown, and have more free time to do other things. That the blues would eventually fade. In reality, the sixty toseventy hour workweeks continue. The stress continues. You can’t even escape the business for a few relaxing,no-work days. You still scramble like a hyperactive squirrel preparing for a harsh winter.

Furthermore, you are coming to realize that being a workaholic, micro-manager, control freak, dictator orhands-on technician does not work and is a miserable way to run a business, much less lead a life. Workingharder, acting tougher, or being more involved with daily details is not the path to greater freedom, joy, or peace-ofmind.

Rather, it is a guaranteed path to burn out. How did you get to this point? Odds are, you were a gifted techni-cian (programmer, electrician, painter, landscaper, CPA, mechanic, chef, attorney, carpenter, salesperson, etc.)who caught the “entrepreneurial bug” several years ago and started, acquired or inherited a business – one thatprobably mirrors your technical skills and experience. Now, as you try frantically to maintain control of yourgrowing company, you are likely overworked, overwhelmed and suffering from a full-blown case of the businessowner blues. You are tired. You feel like a slave to your business. As it grows, you work harder and becomedeeper enslaved. The work, the problems, and the company revolve around you.

If you are honest, business ownership is probably quite different from what you expected and from what youhave been prepared to handle. If not held in check, the very strengths that made you a successful technician(detail orientation, hands-on doer, technical expertise, day-to-day focus, etc.) can be real liabilities to you as abusiness owner.

Technical expertise alone is never sufficient to build and manage a healthy and profitable business. You mustprovide the vision and leadership of a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and the order and systems of a Manager.You must get strategic to get free! You must learn to focus on the entire business, not merely the technical workof the business. You must elevate your mindset, focus and actions –focusing on the vital few things that reallymatter and make a difference.

For example, being a good plumber contrasted with creating and operating a successful plumbing business aretwo different worlds and sets of challenges. Each role requires very different mindsets and skillsets. To be effec-tive, the latter requires strategic leadership; the former requires technical “doer-ship”. Just because you knowhow to do the daily technical work of plumbing doesn’t qualify you to design, build and manage a business thatdoes the work of plumbing. This is a fatal assumption most would-be entrepreneurs make.

If you are a technician masquerading as an owner, be warned! Your pipes may burst. You have the wrong per-spective and are doing the wrong type of work. Because you are comfortable with and good at doing the techni-cal work (for example, plumbing), by default and out of habit, as your company grows, you will end up doingmore and more plumbing work. You will find it hard to escape the frantic pace. Soon, the business will have youand your life held hostage.

You will forever be trapped under the sink or hovering over a broken toilet. Why? Because your business isbroken too! You are not thinking and functioning as a strategic business owner; you are toiling and sweating likea plumber.

Jonathan Goldhill, The Growth Coach, coaches leaders of private companies to grow their business. To learn more abouthis unique group and individual coaching programs visit www.TheGrowthCoachLA.com. Jonathan can be reached at(818) 716-8826 or [email protected]. Daniel M. Murphy is CEO & Founder of The Growth Coach FranchiseSystem, www.TheGrowthCoach.com.


See Strategic Business Owners on Page 11

Jon’s Fitness Background and CredentialsNike Award Winner for Creativity in Personal Training / Awarded“Master Trainer” Status by the National Gym Association / ReebokSpin Certified Instructor / USA Fit Marathon Trainer / Russian Commando(Spetnetz) Fitness Techniques / Golden Gloves Boxer and Coach /Jiu-Jitsu Brown Belt (Japanese style) / Weight Management andNutritional Expertise / Post Natal and Pregnancy Trained / American RedCross Certified / Cancer Survivor Rehabilitation Techniques Certification /Flexibility & Range of Motion Studies Certification (Esquerre).

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High School, College and Professional Athletesand teams share a common thread and that is to stayahead of their competition, compete at the highestlevel with limited to no injuries and to train smarternot longer. Jon offers focused sport-specific athleticconditioning to the young athlete in both individualand group formats.

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INDIVIDUALIZED FOR MAXIMUM RESULTS“What sets Jon apart is his ability to intelligently diagnose athletic limitations, both physical and mental,and engineer creative solutions that draw from his expertise across multiple disciplines.”

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To learn more about how you can benefit, visit

Employee of the YearPolice Officer III+1CHARLES “SEAN” DINSE

On February 23, 2011, at the TopangaArea 2nd Annual Employees of the YearLuncheon, Senior Lead Officer CharlesSean Dinse was recognized as theEmployee of the Year for 2010. Alsorecognized were Reserve Officer ClarenceBill Speer, Officer Cesar Larios, CI AnalystCamille Howard, Detective II Pam Pitcher,and Lieutenant I Nicole Alberca.

Congratulations to all!

Get you business in gear with maximum exposure throughprint advertising and First Page placement on Google Places.Let your prospect easily find you when they’re ready to buy.

Call Monika at 818.614.0362Tell her you want to get your business in gear.

Weathering the storm of economic uncertaintyis going to get tougher if the proposed budgetproposal to eliminate redevelopment agenciesis approved in Sacramento this month.

The project areas that are going to be directlyaffected in the West Valley Region, need to takeaction to urge their local district Senate andAssembly representatives to find alternativesolutions. Eliminate waste, fix the problems—tell them to mend it but not end it.

Valley communities that would be directlyaffected should take action as Koreatown did.

Koreatown volunteers gathered nearly 40,000signatures in support of CRA/LA, saying theagency is vital to their community’s economichealth and access to affordable housing.

“We felt we should do something to showthat we need the CRA in Koreatown, and really,all over the state,” said Chang Y. Lee, chairmanof the Koreatown Arts & Recreation Centerand a prominent community businessman.

In just one week, Lee said, members of the13 chapters of the Pacific American VolunteerCenter gathered all the petition signatures.They were turned over today in a ceremonyat the center’s headquarters to a representativeof Assemblyman Mike Davis, a Los AngelesDemocrat whose district includes part ofKoreatown. The stack of petitions measures8 inches high when piled atop one another.

“This is an incredible gesture on the part ofthe Korean community,” said Kenneth Fearn,chairman of the CRA/LA’s Board ofCommissioners. “We can’t thank you enough.”

Let your voice be heard. See below for contactinformation.


CRA/LA West Valley Regional Office18107 Sherman Way, Suite 100Reseda, CA 91335T 818.708.5844 F 818.344.2425www.crala.org

SAVE CRA/LALocal Community Investment. Economic Development. Community-Building Support.If you are a small business owner, a community leader, a member of a non-profit organization, an activist in your community, a local property owner, a volunteer, or an individual who directly or indirectly

has benefitted from the investments made in your community—over the past several years—by the Community Redevelopment Agency of Los Angeles, now is the time to help SAVE CRA/LA.

Reach out to your State Senators and Assemblymember in your district and urge them to Mend it-Don’t End It!

State Senator Alex Padilla

District 206150 Van Nuys Blvd., Van Nuys, CA 91401(818) 901-5588

State Capitol, Sacramento, CA 94248-000(916) 651-4020

State Senator Fran Pavley

District 232716 Ocean Park Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90405(310)314-5214

State Capitol, Sacramento, CA 94248-0001(916) 651-4023

Assemblymember Bob Blumenfield

District 406150 Van Nuys Blvd., Suite 305, Van Nuys, CA 91401(818) 904-3840

State Capitol, Room 6026Sacramento, CA 94249-0040(916) 319-2040

About CRA/LA:

CRA/LA (www.crala.org) is a public agencyregulated by the State of California and operatingwithin the City of Los Angeles. We make strate-gic investments to create economic opportunityand improve the quality of life for the people wholive and work in our neighborhoods. CRA/LAmanages 32 redevelopment projects areas andthree revitalization areas in seven regions:East Valley, West Valley, Hollywood & Central,Downtown, Eastside, South Los Angeles,and the Harbor.


The Shape of Things to Come: The Village at Topanga

Developer Responds toCommunity ConcernsBy Ed Crowe, West Valley News

Back in July of 2007, Westfield executives laidout the red carpet to proudly unveil their newdevelopment plans for The Village at Topanga.

It was a very ambitious project then estimatedat $750 million. Of course, during that time theeconomy was moving—at least the majority wasnot aware of the major turmoil developing in thefinancial industry and the other major factorsthat brought it to a halt.

After three years of sitting idle, as 31 acres ofunderutilized commercial space between the twoexisting malls, Westfield brought Costco in Julyof last year—as the ideal retail anchor to attractother specialty shops and restaurants.

Because of the current state of the economy,the original development plan has been scaledback by 45 percent (Estimated at $500 million).

In response to the concerns of communityactivists and members of the Woodland HillsWarner Center Neighborhood Council, Westfieldrecently presented revamped designs for thenew Costco store, adding more architecturalelements and green space features.

Rather than trying to describe in words whatthe proposed changes look like, this writerchose a visual alternative to illustrate what isactually there.

The first photograph at the top shows theexisting surface parking lot (located on thesouth side of Victory, directly across from theSears store) and the photo to the top rightshows what the site will look like after the new

Costco store is build with the revamped design.

According to John Alderson, WestfieldDevelopment Director, the concerns about theCostco 410-foot wall facing Victory, have beenaddressed by adding architectural features toenhance the aesthetics and use of the space.They are looking at possibilities for display ofart or murals and family-friendly spaces.

Concerns raised about the gas station and tirestore that will go at the corner of Owensmouthand Victory, have also been addressed. “Nosigns or gas pumps will be visible fromVictory,” says Alderson, “people will see berms

and landscaping.” Questions raised by JimAnderson, at large member of the WoodlandHills Warner Center Neighborhood Council,about “geological and ecological considerationsabout any building in WH or Warner Center,”have been addressed by an extensive draft EIRsubmitted as part of the entitlement process by

NOW. View of the existing surface parking area, south side of Victory, where the new Costco store will be build. AFTER. Photographic composition of revamped artist’s rendering of design of the new Costco store.

Corner of Victory and Owensmouth where the gasstation and tire store will be located.

Looking north from the access drive way to wherethe new Costco store will be located.

Green spaces at Westfield Valencia Town Center thatwill be used as models for family-friendly spaces.

What about the creek bed and geotechnical issueswith the water table? Asks Jim Anderson.

Looking north from the site where Costco will belocated. The Nordstrom store.

Looking east at the underutilized acreage where TheVillage at Topanga will be developed.

Looking north across from where the Costco gasstation and tire store will be facing.

Looking south from the Sears parking area alongVictory Blvd. towards the site where the new Costcostore will be built. See The Village at Topanga on Page 10


Anecdotes, Interviews,Bits & Pieces aboutWest Valley History.

The West Valley News 818.883.3374. We Deliver.

By Asela Zamorano, Special to the West Valley News

Arriving at Ms. Mulholland’s home inChatsworth on one of the hottest days in thesummer was like finding an oasis in the desert.She was already opening the door as I closedmy own door of my car, and she quicklymotioned to me with her welcoming smile tocome into her home. Ms. Mulholland statedthat in all of her life living in the Valley, shehad never experienced such heat. She quicklywent into reminiscent mode by recalling themission style ranch that her family had lived inby the orange groves. In those days, they hadno air conditioning, and yet the heat alwaysseemed bearable since evenings would alwaysbring about cool breezes that would refresheveryone after the summer’s day. Somehow,these summer days seemed to be lackingtheir cool evening counterparts.Ms. Mulholland offered me the opportunity

to take off my shoes and feel the coolness ofher tile floor, handed me a cold glass of water,and allowed me a choice from a number ofcomfy conversation nooks that surroundedher living room. I chose a single off-whitearm chair and prepared myself for what I knewwould be an afternoon to remember.I’d known of Catherine Mulholland as the

granddaughter of the very famous WilliamMulholland, the man Mulholland Drive isnamed after. Her love for writing, as well asher love for the history of the Valley, had ledher to write Calabasas Girls, Owensmouth

Baby, and her latest book, William Mulholland. But I quickly gathered from our initial conversation,that her life as simply Catherine Mulholland, would be just as fascinating, if not more fascinating,than even her own grandfather’s life.I noticed a grand piano in the adjacent room and asked if she played. And as soon as the question

was asked, I could quickly surmise that her piano was more than just a nice piece of furniture toplace over her very beautiful oriental carpet. Ms. Mulholland’s eyes suddenly began to twinkle andher already big smile became even larger as she responded by saying that she most definitely played,and that her musical genre of choice was the blues. For the rest of the three or so hours that I wouldbe there, the topic of the blues would reoccur like a familiar chorus of a favorite song Ms. Mulhollandloves the blues for its beauty, but especially for its cultural importance during many rough times inAmerican history. And during each lovely melancholy of a chorus when she would reminisce about afavorite two-fisted player or a time when it was taboo to listen to its sweet melodies, her unforgettablesmile and twinkling eyes would return.Catherine Mulholland isn’t just a music connoisseur. She is generally a lover of all types of art

and has always loved to surround herself with great thinkers, writers and artists even when it wasn’talways acceptable to do so. Ms. Mulholland went out of her way many times to do other than whatwas expected of young girls of her time. For starters, after graduating from Canoga Park High Schoolin 1940, she decided to do what not many young ladies her age were doing. Catherine Mulholland,with bobbed hair and a packed steam chest by her side, took a train across America all by herself,and began her college years at Columbia University, in New York. It was there that she firstencountered the writer Jack Kerouac before he became the great American novelist.Ms. Mulholland then crossed the states again, this time to northern California to begin her

graduate studies at Berkley. This was a place surrounded by intellectual curiosity, freedoms, andyet still plagued by segregation. The blues music that Catherine Mulholland listened to at the timetold stories of the yearning for peace and justice. And while she lived in Berkley, she made senseof it all through her own writing. It was there that she first joined book clubs and experiencedgreat intellectual exchanges with many independent thinkers. It was there, that her writing of playsfirst began.Ms. Mulholland’s first play told the story of the relationship between a Mexican boy, a ranch hand

at an orange grove, and the little girl of the white owners of the ranch. Catherine Mulholland saidthat she was inspired to write this story as a result of her own observations of the disparity betweentwo groups of people who, although different on the outside, were really just the same. Even and asa little girl living at the Homestead Ranch where orange trees upon orange trees grew, she was awareof how people were treated differently. The sweet scent of the orange blossoms would never be ableto cover up the pungent ill feelings of racism for her, even then.It was no surprise that her next play would feature the very uncomfortable topic of black and

white relationships. The play “A Lincoln Memorial,” discussed the attempt of the coming togetherof people with different skin colors who were ultimately the same in so many ways. This wonderfulplay not only won her the distinguished Lincoln Centennial Award, but was also featured at theMark Taper Forum.Ms. Mulholland continued to write plays about topics that made an impression on her during the

many facets of her life. Some artists told the stories of injustices through the writing of blues music,she did it through writing. In a way, writing helped her make sense of such topics in a manner thatshe could not have done otherwise. She said that writing has been such an important part of her life,and as a result of it, has never felt lonely.So now, as she continues to venture towards new literary projects, as well as her own practicing

of her beloved blues music, she is very happy to be in the same home where old orange groves usedto be the norm. Ms. Mulholland’s life has certainly taken her to so may places physically as well asintellectually, but ultimately, it’s her home in the Valley where she wishes to be most of all. This Valleygirl is surrounded by old orange crate framed art, Shakespeare Festival posters from England, wall towall books by favorite novelists, historical accounts of her dear California history, but mostly, of hervery fond memories of growing up in the best place of all, the Valley.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This story was first published in December 2006 as part of a series featuring the early families of CanogaPark (previously known as Owensmouth). Ms. Mulholland no longer lives in Chatsworth and her entire library of books, wasdonated to CSUN when she moved to a retirement facility in Moorpark. She is still as fascinating to talk to and a conversationabout the Valley, can easily last for several hours. Hopefully, we will be able to see her again to celebrate the 100th anniversaryof Canoga Park in 2012.

Catherine Mulholland: A True Valley Girl in Residence


When you Advertise in the West Valley News You’re Online 24/7ASK ABOUT HOW TO GET YOUR BUSINESS LISTED ON THE FIRST PAGE

OF GOOGLE PLACES. Call Monika at 818.614.0362

A Message to Our Customers& Taxpayers from Metro CEOArthur T. LeahySince becoming Metro CEO 22 months ago I have

taken a hard look at Metro transit operations, rider-ship and recurring budget deficits. I rode many busand rail lines, talked to passengers and operators,visited yards and pored over performance data,comparing it to other transit agencies. My experienceworking in transit for more than 40 years, startingout as a bus operator, helped with my assessment.

I realized we needed to improve service qualityto ensure buses arrive on time, and that we cannotsurvive operating deficits that annually topped $100million. And we had to recognize that the dynamicsof transit in Los Angeles County have changed withthe sharp growth of the two dozen municipal busoperators, Metro Rail and Metrolink, as well as voterapproval of Measure R, a new half cent sales taxthat funds a dozen new transit projects. The newand existing services have to be better integrated.We can't afford to duplicate service, especially,against the backdrop of the worst economicdownturn in 80 years.

So I've made organizational changes thatemphasized quality over quantity. Today, we haveleaner operations, cleaner buses, better on-timeperformance and fewer breakdowns. As a result,customer complaints in December hit an all timelow. But we’re just beginning. We're ordering newbuses, dedicating more resources for major busmaintenance work, such as engine replacementsand vehicle overhauls, and also increased roadsupervision.

We are committed to putting better service on thestreet in the most efficient manner possible, so allour customers benefit. This means we will movetoward a more integrated bus and rail system thatdoesn't duplicate service operated by Metro or theother carriers. In the end you will have a moreproductive buslrail agency and lower overall costs.

Currently, Metro buses overall run less than halffull. By boosting productivity we will make oursystem sustainable and enable us to improve relia-bility and performance for you, our customers, anddedicate resources where they are needed most.

This is not an issue of bus vs. rail. Both servethe same customers. It is about being a goodsteward of public resources in managing the entiretransportation system — including bus, rail, high-ways, ridesharing, bike and pedestrian programs.

Proposed bus service economies in June aredesigned to impact the fewest amount of customerspossible. We targeted lines that have very poorridership or duplicate Metro or municipal busservices. We took great pains to make sure thatalternative service is available within a quarter mileif lines or route segments are discontinued.

Our passenger loads will still be less than whatbus riders in Chicago, Philadelphia, New York andother major cities experience, and Metro fares willremain among the lowest in the country. With thisapproach, we also will be in a better positionstrategically add buses on individual lines if wedetect overcrowding as ridership bounces duringthe economy recovery.

Ultimately, we will have a great public transitsystem that draws riders from their cars, easestraffic and makes the air we breathe cleaner, butfirst we have to better manage today’s transit system.We need to do more with less. That’s why we’reputting a greater emphasis on quality and productivityand balanced budgets so we can deliver to you onthat promise.

Sincerely,

Arthur T. LeahyChief Executive Officer

Westfield. The Woodland Hills Warner CenterNeighborhood Council PLUM Committee isactively engaged in negotiations with Westfieldand Costco. Chair Dennis DiBiase, according toa report in the Daily News, will review the EIRwith his committee and provide a response.

Recently, a color mailer was sent out, asrequired by law, to the residents of the surround-ing communities for input. The collateral piecehighlights the amenities of The Village atTopanga project and reassures the recipientsabout the developer’s track record of “creatingretail experiences with the highest standards ofdesign and architecture.”

There has been a great deal of emotionalcapital spent by some concerned communityactivists. “There are merits to both sides of theargument.” Wrote Kathleen Sterling on an articleabout The Village in the Warner Center News.“There has to be compromise on both sides.”She urged. Clearly to reach a compromise bothsides have to communicate in a way that createsopen dialog. First of all, each side has to under-stand the other’s business.

Westfield is a developer in the business ofleasing retail space. They have 31 acres ofunderutilized land. Costco is a multibillion-dollar business buying items directly frommanufacturers, passing on the savings to itsmembers and selling in massive quantities.They operate out of warehouse structures.

Community activists and neighborhoodcouncils are gatekeepers to their communities.They want a voice in how land is used and howa development is going to impact the qualityof life in their community. They want someconcessions such as: mitigation of increasedtraffic, aesthetically compatible architecturaldesign, more green pedestrian-friendly spaces,support for the arts and culture and othercommunity-oriented events and activities.

Community people have to think like businessowners; what would they do with 31 acres ofland zoned for commercial development.Likewise, developers have to think likecommunity residents. What would they liketo have or not have in their neighborhood.Only then can each begin to understand eachother and reach a compromise.

This is time for specifics not ambiguities orexaggerated analogies. “Just as the Berlin Wall

Family-friendly green spaces at Westfield Valencia Town Center. This is the type of landscape architecture thatwill be used as a model for The Village at Topanga project.

The Village at TopangaContinued from Page 8

fell to the will of the people, this great wallpushed up against Victory Blvd, must fall underthe weight of community opinion.” A localactivist wrote. How is this opinion a solution.How do you build a structure without a wall—any structure. Modifying the arquitecturaldesign of the wall with engaging features;now that opens room for dialog about a numberof mutually agreeable options.

If you are a person who views developers withdistrust and tries to find information that willput fear of disaster into susceptible ears, youmay come across the following data, this writerfound online about liquefaction in the SanFernando Valley. “...Areas containing very young(late Holocene) stream channel deposits wherethe water table lies close to (within 10 feet of)the surface may have very high susceptibilityto liquefaction.

Shallow groundwater tends to occur in areasalong the Los Angeles River and near reservoirs,recharge facilities, and flood control basins.Thus, the greatest liquefaction susceptibilitytends to be in the southern and southwesternportions of the San Fernando Valley (near theLos Angeles River) and in areas around waterfacilities, such as the Los Angeles Reservoir.”

Now the question is, would a major developerinvest millions of dollars developing land with-out making sure the site is free of geotechnicalproblems. Would it be a smart thing to do?

We need the businesses that create jobs andgenerate tax revenue for the city. We need whatThe Village at Topanga will bring to the WestValley community. It’s time for compromise andconcessions from all parties involved.

According to John Alderson, who wasalso the development director of the WestfieldValencia Town Center, groundbreaking ofThe Village at Topanga could take place as earlyas January 2012, once the entitlement processis approved this year.

LETTERS

Write, Email, Fax, Call

Write Managing Editor, West Valley News8378 Sale Avenue, West Hills, CA 91304

Email [email protected]

Tel / Fax 818-883-3374 / 818-883-9678

Include name, address, and daytime telephone.Letters may be edited for clarity and length.

Ed:

It’a always motivating to read your column andespecially this month’s packed with even moreencouraging stories. I hope everyone in Canogagets to read it.

It’s hard to keep up with all the activity going onjust in Downtown Canoga, but the West ValleyNews pulls it altogether for those of us living onthe fringes. It’s catch up and motivating. As Huellwould say, "It’s also part of California's (Canoga)gold".

I pick mine up at Follow Your Heart and I doappreciate you.

Ray HolmeProperty OwnerCanoga Park

SHARED BY A CYBER FRIENDto make you smileHere’s how to keep all that political ‘news’in perspective.

1. The Wall Street Journal is read by the peoplewho run the country.

2. The Washington Post is read by peoplewho think they run the country.

3. The New York Times is read by peoplewho think they should run the country andwho are very good at crossword puzzles.

4. USA Today is read by people who think theyought to run the country but don't reallyunderstand The New York Times. They do,however, like their statistics shownin pie charts.

5. The Los Angeles Times is read by peoplewho wouldn't mind running the country,if they could find the time — and if they did-n’t have to leave Southern California to do it.

6. The Boston Globe is read by people whoseparents used to run the country and did apoor job of it, thank you very much.

7. The New York Daily News is read by peoplewho aren’t too sure who’s running the countryand don’t really care as long as they can geta seat on the train.

8. The New York Post is read by people whodon't care who is running the country as longas they do something really scandalous,preferably while intoxicated.

9. The Miami Herald is read by peoplewho are running another country, but needthe baseball scores.

10. The San Francisco Chronicle is readby people who aren’t sure if there is a countryor that anyone is running it; but if so, theyoppose all that they stand for. There areoccasional exceptions if the leaders arehandicapped, minority, feminist, atheistdwarfs who also happen to be illegal aliensfrom any other country or galaxy, providedof course, that they are not Republicans.

11. The National Enquirer is read by peopletrapped in line at the grocery store.

12. The Seattle Times is read by peoplewho have recently caught a fish andneed something to wrap it in.

13. Of course, the West Valley News is readby people who about their community.

Glen Sobel, son of West Hills resident RonSobel, will be joining Alice Cooper’s “No MoreMr Nice Guy” summer tour on drums, replacingJimmy DeGrasso.

Alice has announced a revamped band line-up.The tour will kick off in North AmericaMay 12-21, then go to South AmericaMay 25-June 3, and England & EuropeJune 7-July 16, before returning to NorthAmerica again for the month of August

Come and meet the officersof the Topanga Police Station

Open HouseSaturday, March 19

10AM-2PM



Perfect practice makes perfect

No Limits Fitnesswith Jon Geiger

Jon Geiger is an Athletic Conditioning Specialist with over 20 years of experience. He has guided countlessathletes of all ages and levels, performers and regular folks of all shapes and sizes to achievements in performance,and rehabilitation of chronic physical issues while growing their will and self-belief towards manifesting change.

Jon utilizes the application of elite techniques creatively integrating multiple disciplines.

He is the founder of Geiger’s No Limits Training and The Academy at Geiger’s No Limits (A Training Academydevoted to Sport-Specific Conditioning for the Young Athlete). To learn more visit www.geigersnolimits.com.

Jon is now based in the West Valley and proudly calls it both his home and community. He would love to hearfrom you, and can be reached at [email protected]

Spring is in the air and a new year hasborne plenty of resolutions…so now what?

We hit the trails, circle dates when we aimto buy new swimwear, drop the pasta fromour forks and try to come to terms with thatdevice we’re supposed to stand on which hasoddly been stowed away underneath the bed.

How do we get from here to there in thefastest way possible? Not by mantras of“no pain, no gain,” not by the latest starvationdiet, exercise contraption or dvd hawked onyour favorite morning show, but by heedingone of my favorite sayings from another sideof the world; “The water wears away the rock,not by force—but by constant falling.”

We accomplish our goals in changing ourbody’s shape in the same way that we keepour teeth in good shape—by daily brushing.

Our first goal needs to be a livable andregular routine just like brushing your teeth;and THEN, and only then, does any plan havea chance of success.

In columns to come, I will be sharingtechniques for athletic performance, fat lossand conditioning practices, which have beenthe foundation of achievement, rehabilitationand an enhanced application of mental focusthroughout my career in working with athletes,performers and a myriad of regular folks withexceptional aspirations.

It has been my privilege to be a part oftheir journeys, and I hope now to be ableto offer some thoughts which will help youin yours. Till next time just remember—theoriginal meaning of the word “decision,”i.e., “to decide,” actually meant “to eliminateall other options.”

Everything starts with a clear sense ofpurpose and something which is importantto you burning inside, which can remindyou on those tough days, what it is you arefighting for. Get your mind focused and therest will follow.

Be good to yourself and believe,for if you do, you have No Limits….

New Horizons’ will Help Fulfill the Dreams of Hundreds of Adultswith Developmental Disabilities at their 2011 Gala CelebrationNew Horizons, a non-profit organization that provides a variety of services to adults with

intellectual challenges, is honoring Assemblymember Bob Blumenfield, Boeing Spectrolab,Bud and Althea Brown and Lou Marino.

Bob Blumenfield will receive the Partner for Brighter Futures award for his community leadershipand support of New Horizons’ programs. Boeing Spectrolab will receive the Partner for Independenceaward in recognition of their employment of disabled adults. Bud and Althea Brown will be honoredwith the Dignity, Love and Compassion award for their many years of pioneering advocacy in educa-tion and services for people with developmental disabilities. Lou Marino will receive the Fredrick J.Weitkamp Service Award for his dedication to New Horizons.

The ‘Fulfilling Dreams’ Gala is an annual dinner and auction to raise funds for the organizations’programs and services for more than 800 adults with developmental disabilities throughout the SanFernando and Santa Clarita Valleys. This will be a very special evening featuring performances fromBrite Lites, a dance group solely comprised of adults with intellectual and developmental challengesas well as speeches from New Horizons clients all part of the first of its kind Toastmasters Club foradults with developmental disabilities.

Thursday, March 10th, 2011 at 6:30pm

El Caballero Country Club, 18300 Tarzana Drive, Tarzana, CA 91356

For more information, please contact Marilyn Simon-Gersuk at 818-221-0665

Time to Face Facts

Accept the fact that it is no accident you hold this book in your hands. Out of either inspiration or desperation,you are seeking alternative approaches. Your current beliefs, habits and actions are not yielding the results youwant. Odds are, you desire greater success, peace-of-mind and joy. I too want you to achieve greater pleasurefrom your business. Furthermore, in addition to your business plan, I want you to have a fulfilling life plan. Iwant you to make a life that works for you, not just make a living from your work. I want you to be successfuland happy. I want to help drive your success and balance your life!

For change to occur, however, you must stop playing mind games and admit that something about your busi-ness is not working. While sacrificing long hours each week may have been necessary the first few years, con-tinuation of such a frantic pace is symptomatic of deeper issues. You should not live this way! Something iswrong.

Something is off. You know it in your gut. Others probably sense it in your moods, in your eyes and on yourface. It is time to face reality! You and your business have some problems that require some solutions. Verysimply, you can’t change what you do not openly acknowledge. A problem properly identified and acknowledgedis a problem half solved.

To begin the transformation and healing process, you need to do some serious reflection. Be brutally honestwhen you answer these questions:

•Do I often question, “Why do I have to do every darn thing myself?”

•Am I still working too much and making too little?

•Am I trapped working “in” my business instead of “on” my business?

•Do I ever wonder if business ownership is truly worth the time, effort, headaches, hassles, and sacrifices?

•Do I feel trapped on a treadmill, moving faster and faster, but going nowhere?

•Do I constantly face frequent interruptions and repetitive questions from my staff?

•Do I go home many nights feeling mentally and physically drained?

•Do I confuse busyness with accomplishment?

•Do I dread the drudgery of facing and solving the same issues and problems each and every day —the burden of re-creating the wheel time and time again?

•Do I daydream about regaining my sense of freedom, joy, passion, and peace-of-mind?

•Do I have anxiety about drowning in projects, problems, deadlines, crises, meetings, employee issues,unanswered voicemails/emails, customer complaints, administrative trivia, and on and on?

•Do I feel like a master juggler with too many balls up in the air and dreading they will soon beginhitting the floor?

•Am I forever chained to a phone, computer, email, or pager?

•Am I tired of having customers rely on me personally for services, solutions and satisfaction?

•Am I fed up with missing family time, family events, and making other personal sacrificeson a semi-regular basis?

•Do I crave more free time to do the things that matter most to me?

Strategic Business OwnersContinued from Page 6

Editor’s Note: The second half of Chapter 1 will continue on the next issue with Admit to the Problem

Topanga Employees of the YearContinued from Page 1

Captain Tom Brascia, Deputy Chief Kirk Albanese, Topanga Boosters member and event host Rickey Gelb,Lieutenant Sean Malinowski, during the Employees of the Year Luncheon at Maggiano’s Woodland Hills.

RESERVE OFFICER OF THE YEARRESERVE OFFICE CLARENCE “BILL” SPEER

EMPLOYEE OF THE YEARPOLICE OFFICER III+1 CHARLES “SEAN” DINSE

OFFICER OF THE YEARPOLICE OFFICER III CESAR LARIOS

CIVILIAN EMPLOYEE OF THE YEARCI ANALYST II CAMILLE HOWARD

DETECTIVE OF THE YEARDETECTIVE II PAM PITCHER

SUPERVISOR OF THE YEARLIEUTENANT I NICOLE ALBERCA

Congratulations!

Councilman Zine Leads Effort to ImmediatelyCut the Number of City Issued Cell PhonesContinuing efforts to cut spending and save taxpayer dollars,

Councilman Dennis P. Zine’s motion to reduce the number of City issuedcell phones passed with a 10-0 vote at today’s City Council meeting.

The motion mandates a 10% cut in the number of cell phones thisfiscal year and calls for immediate contract negotiations to procurecheaper rates. This same action also asks for a report back in 90 dayson the savings achieved by these cuts as well as additional analysis onany penalties incurred for early contract termination in order to realize

cuts beyond 10% in the next fiscal year.

“We have to start somewhere,” said Councilman Dennis P. Zine. “After reviewing the informationreleased by the Controller concerning the number of City issued cell phones in each of theDepartments, I feel compelled to begin chipping away at these numbers and get down to the bareminimum. My office currently has one of the lowest numbers of City Council issued cell phonesand I am committed to making additional cuts within my own staff.”

This call for cell phone reductions comes on the heels of Governor Jerry Brown implementing asimilar 50% reduction in State issued cell phones. And today, Mayor Villaraigosa issued a memoasking departments to reduce expenditures from non-salary General Fund account appropriationsin order to continue to mitigate this year’s budget shortfall.

“We are all trying to do our part to address the City’s current financial situation,” addedCouncilman Zine. “I look forward to working in partnership with the Mayor and my colleaguesto continue reducing unnecessary expenditures.”

Councilman Zine has also recently introduced motions to place additional restrictions onauthorized City travel and to ask for a review of Los Angeles City Department General Managerand Assistant General Manager salaries. Councilman Zine has taken a voluntary 10% pay cutand his entire staff is currently taking unpaid furlough days.

West Valley News. We Deliver. Call 818.883.3374COMMUNITY ADVERTISING AT AFFORDABLE RATES.

CALABASAS / CANOGA PARK / CHATSWORTH / RESEDA TARZANA / WEST HILLS / WINNETKA / WOODLAND HILLS

PAGE 12 West Valley News Volume 7 Number 2 2011

MESSAGE FROM WASHINGTON FROM…

Disclose Secret Campaign FinancersIn the case of Citizens United v. Federal Election Committee, the

U.S. Supreme Court overturned the long-standing ban on corporatecontributions to federal election campaigns, allowing advertisementsfunded by anonymous corporate entities with narrow interests —advertisements that directly advocate for the election or defeat offederal candidates without any disclosure or transparency.

During his first State of the Union Address, President Obama summed up the situation well,saying, “American elections should [not] be bankrolled by America's most powerful interests, orworse, by foreign entities. They should be decided by the American people.” As a former boardmember of Common Cause California, I strongly agree.

Last fall, wealthy special interests spent some five times as much as they did in the 2006midterms, with less than half the donor identities disclosed, compared to more than 90 percentdisclosed in 2006.

As the New York Times reported, the American Future Fund, a conservative organization basedin Iowa, spent millions of dollars on attack ads. The American Future Fund, and similar groupswith anodyne names eager to influence federal government policy, was organized under a tax codeprovision that lets donors remain anonymous, keeping them — and their possible motivations —shrouded from the public.

The shadowy groups receive six- and seven-figure checks from hidden sources, and they arespending those funds at an unprecedented rate. American Crossroads, which Republican strategistKarl Rove helped create, reportedly spent nearly $26 million on political activity that called for theelection and defeat of specific congressional candidates. Americans deserve to know who financedthese advertisements.

Last year, I voted to increase disclosure and strengthen transparency in federal campaigns. TheDemocracy is Strengthened by Casting Light on Spending in Elections (DISCLOSE) Act pulls backthe curtains, and lets the sun shine in on the role of special interest campaign spending.

The DISCLOSE Act requires corporations, organizations, and special interest groups to stand bytheir political advertising just like a candidate for office does. It will stop Wall Street, Big Oil, andU.S. corporations controlled by foreign—or even hostile—governments from secretly manipulatingelections by funneling money to fly-by-night front groups that run last minute attack ads and otheranonymous election advertisements.

For example, Venezuelan dictator Hugo Chavez controls CITGO Oil Company, which could bemaking large, secret contributions to influence U.S. elections.

Similarly, CEOs would need to identify themselves in their advertisements, and corporationsand organizations will be required to disclose their political expenditures.

The DISCLOSE Act’s common-sense transparency rules put the needs of average Americans,and not special interests, back at the center of our democracy.

Last year, the legislation passed the House, but not the Senate. I am hopeful that the new Congresswill pass this important legislation.

Congressman Brad Sherman represents roughly half of the San Fernando Valley.

As you may know, I am retiring at the end of my term and I am notseeking re-election to the City Council on March 8, 2011. You will bereceiving your ballot in the mail soon, and I don’t want you to besurprised to find that my name is not on the ballot.

This election is extremely important for the future of our communityand I encourage you to vote on March 8.

Between now and the end of my term, our newsletter will featurehighlights of our major accomplishments over the last eight years. Noneof these achievements would have been possible without your support.

– Councilman Greig Smith, Twelfth District

A WORD FROM OUR ELECTED OFFICIALS

P.O.S.S.E. (People Organizing Safe, Secure Environments)Is your alley being used as a dumping ground? Tired of signs littering your community? Is there graffiti in your neighborhood?Are you fed-up enough to do something about it?

Join Councilman Dennis P. Zine‘s Community POSSE. TAKE BACK YOUR COMMUNITY! Call my District Office at 818-756-8848

Ask Your Elected OfficialStarting with the January 2011 issue of the West Valley News, we will publish specific questions

directed to Federal, State, and City elected officials who represent your local districts in the WestSan Fernando Valley.

This publication will publish the answers to those specific questions in the following issue,provided the answers are submitted by the respective offices of the addressed elected officials.

Email questions to [email protected]. Comments of a partisan or derogatory naturewill not be published.


DON’T FORGET TO VOTE ON MARCH 8

Congressman Brad Sherman visited the Canoga Park Neighborhood Council during their regular monthlyBoard meeting at the Canoga Park Community Center. He spoke about budget deficit problems in Washingtonand ways to reduce it. Eliminating subsidies for farm prices in view of strong demand from China for grain andmeat, he suggested would be a good measure to start trimming the deficit. The meeting was well attendedand constituents had the opportunity to ask questions.

COUNCILMEMBER TONY CARDENAS PROTESTS DISSOLUTIONOF THE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCYLOS ANGELES – Councilmember Tony Cárdenas, Council District Six, and other members of the

Los Angeles City Council today heard arguments from the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA)and the Los Angeles Board of Commissioners as to the potential detrimental impacts the dissolutionof the CRA could have to the City of Los Angeles. Governor Jerry Brown is recommending thedissolution of the City agency and seeks to absorb an estimated $930,000,000 into the State budget.

“If the state legislature and the Governor take away our City funding and authority to governredevelopment projects and Empowerment Zones, job growth will crumble in our City,” saidCárdenas. “The CRA as well as investment incentives offered by the Empowerment Zone programhave produced construction jobs, much-needed housing and long-term employment for residentsin my district.”

• The City would lose a $3.2 million grant for public improvement programs along key Valleythoroughfares

“Projects like the redevelopment of the Panorama Tower are necessary to revitalize the community,”said Cárdenas. “Without the CRA, this dinosaur of a building will continue to scare off potentialbusinesses from investing in Panorama City and the surrounding community.”

The Council is expected to cast their vote on the agency today (March 8).

“If the Governor’s Office is successful in eliminating the CRA, not only will the people in my districtsuffer but the entire City will feel the backward impact of this decision,” said Cárdenas.

Councilmember Tony Cárdenas has represented Council District Six since 2003. The Sixth District is located in the Northeast San FernandoValley section of the City of Los Angeles and includes the communities of Arleta, Lake Balboa, North Hollywood, Pacoima, Panorama City,Sun Valley and Van Nuys. Councilmember Cárdenas is chair of the Information Technology and Government Affairs Committee and the Boardof Referred Powers; vice-chair of the Public Safety Committee and the Energy and Environment Committee; and a member of the Housing,Community and Economic Development Committee. In addition to his Los Angeles City Hall Office, Councilmember Cárdenas has fieldoffices located in Van Nuys City Hall and in Sun Valley. The main office phone number is 213.473.7006. Inquiries can be directed [email protected].


Business Education/Workshops

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY SMALL BUSINESS WORKSHOPSMARCH – APRIL 2011

HOW TO WRITE A USEFUL BUSINESS PLAN

This hands-on, interactive workshop will help you write a short and long term written plan you canuse to build and grow a successful and profitable business. Learn the best structure for your busi-ness plan; the information you must include for your benefit and for potential lenders or creditors;identify and focus on the key issues of your business and how to bring it all together to identify yourmarket potential. Then join the discussion on how to put your plan into action for the best results.

• Thursday, March 24, 2011 from 9:00 – 12:00 Cost $35

• Build WorkSource Center, 9207 Eton Ave., ChatsworthConnie Sparks is an author, business strategist, trainer and President of the WadeInstitute, a business and capital development consulting company. Her experience, skills,and training methods has been recognized by higher education institutions, corporateAmerica, and private organizations. Ms. Sparks has trained more than 4,000 businessowners and executives throughout California. She has helped start and grow more than100 small businesses in LA County alone.

SELL MORE with EFFECTIVE MARKETING

An energetic, interactive 3-hour workshop to help you learn effective ways to grow your businessand increase sales from your marketing program. Lead by a marketing expert with more than 35years successful business experience, the workshop begins with a presentation on how to create andexecute a marketing and selling program in today’s competitive and changing market. Then you askthe questions and get answers that will be personal and practical. Ideal for existing business ownersand start-ups. A great way to get started on your new year plans.

• Thursday, March 24, 2011 from 10:00 – 1:00 Cost $35

• Premier America Credit Union, 19867 Prairie St., ChatsworthBen Tenn has more than 35 years of business experience, with a focus onmarketing, sales and general management. He has been a corporate executiveat Disney and Activision and the co-owner of a $10 million small business. He hasbeen an independent business consultant since 1996 serving local and national smallbusinesses, a successful presenter of marketing and sales seminars, acolumnist for the SFV Business Journal. He earned his MBA from UCLA.

Reservations required: visit www.cocsbdc.organd click on ‘Calendar.’Or call 661-362-5900 [email protected] arrive 10 minutes early to check in.

LOW COST OR FREE WORKSHOPS BY VEDC

VEDC also offers a comprehensive business training series for those ready to go to the next level of businesssuccess. VEDC offers comprehensive business workshops designed to transfer critical management skills tosmall business owners. These workshops are open and available to anyone seeking additional information onhow to start, operate and successfully grow a business.

Classes are reasonably priced or FREE. Workshops are offered in our different locations throughout theSan Fernando Valley and Downtown Los Angeles area. Core business workshop topics include

• Access to capital

• Basic legal structures of a business

• Marketing on limited budget

• Business record keeping

• QuickBooks

• Managing Employees

• Managing for profit and results

• E-Commerce

VEDC also offers a comprehensive business training series for those ready to goto the next level of business success.

All VEDC workshops at:

VEDC(Valley Economic Development Center)5121 Van Nuys Blvd. 3rd Floor, Van Nuys, CA

Contact Lucero Montañez818-907-9922

[email protected]

For additional information about fees and locations, visit:

www.vedc.org

• How to start a new business

• How to write a business plan

• How to do business with the government

• Import / export fundamentals

• Finance & accounting

• Customer service

• Human resources

• Procurement assistance

HELPING ENTREPRENEURS SUCCESSFULLY START, BUILD AND GROW THEIR BUSINESS

818.883.3374 www.crowemarketingdesign.comHelping Small Valley Businesses Increase Sales and Prosper

ADVERTISING DESIGN / MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS / NEW MEDIA

College of the Canyons University Center, 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA 91355(661) 362 - 5900 www.cocsbdc.org


PAULETTE BANOZAOwner

Efectiv Skin Care SalonEntreprenuership takes passion and a degree

of calculated risk. Paulette relied on her years ofexperience as a model and her passion for skincare and wellness to open Efectiv Skin Care Salonin the heart of Old Town Center Canoga Park.

Paulette’s clients benefit from the insight shebrings to skin care from her modeling years.And the dedication and passion she has, toprogressively improve the health and appearanceof her clients’ skin. “Healthy skin is beautiful skin”she says. Let’s learn a little bit about Pauletteand the individualized services she offers.

Her modeling years.

Paulette started out in Los Angeles with theCunningham Agency as a runway and print model.She went to Vienna, Austria for a photo shoot andstayed for three years. Being in Europe as a Blackmodel, she had to be sure to take care of her ownskin care needs. “The makeup artists in Austriawere mostly new at working with Black skin,”she recalls. “They generally thought my skin waswonderful and could stand up to anything! So,I always had to be sure to have my own skin carecleansing and foundation products on show orphoto locations.”

When she returned to the states, she was askedto work with teenage girls interested in modeling.Because skin care and makeup were among herpassions, she accepted the challenge. “So manyyoung ladies thought you just jumped up on therunway and start walking! There is a whole beautyregimen to be followed for inside and outside.”

This is the aggregate value and experiencePaulette brings to her new practice as a licensedesthetician.

The business

“At Efectiv Skin Care, I don’t just offer afacial. It is a treatment and experience specificallyfor you and your skin care needs.” Paulette tellsher clients. “There are no up-charges or add-ontreatments! You get exactly what you need in your1-hour facial!.” She adds.

What about facials for men?

“Men are discovering the positive effects of skincare. They have approximately 20% oilier skin andlarger pores than women, so a once-per-monthtreatment is usually sufficient to keep the skinclear and healthy looking. Because, Efectiv SkinCare Salon offers an exclusive spa setting, thereis no intimidation for guys to come in and get amuch needed facial treatment.”

What about acne treatments for teens?

“I specialize in acne treatments. Glycolic,Benzoyl Peroxide and Vitamin A are some ofthe treatments I use to help teens (and adults)to contend with their nemesis “acne.” Thosewho suffer from acne have to be diligent in theirtreatment regimen. Using home care productsand having weekly or bi-monthly facial treatmentsis an absolute must to get and keep their skinclear and healthy-looking.

Body Wraps

The new addition to my skin care repertoire isbody wraps. I offer the Parafango Body Wrap.Imagine, a relaxing body wrap treatment whereyou are painted, from head to toe, with warmparaffin wax, heated mud & seaweed, whileessential oils waft away the tension. This hourand ½ long body wrap treatment was createdspecifically for detoxification while losing inches,and, firming and toning the skin.

Giving back to the Community

Paulette loves giving and working with hercommunity. She says, “I have donated compli-mentary facials to several women’s organizations(including Save the Tatas Cancer Group). I haveworked with Girl Scout Troops to earn beautybadges and produced annual community fashionshows to teach girls self esteem and posture.”

Welcome Paulette to the community. We wishyou continued success in your new venture.

Contact Paulette at (818) 657-9967 to takeadvantage of her current Deluxe Facial Special foronly $35 (Regular Price $65). Call today!

Visit www.efectivskincare.com to learn moreabout all the signature treatments Paulette offers.

Celebrating Entreprenuership

This is a FREE individual or business profile with photo offered to all advertisers who sign commitments for 6-12 issues of the West Valley News.

Cynthia Ibarra named Director of Strategic PartnershipsThe VEDC (Valley Economic Development Center) has named Cynthia Ibarra to the new created position of

Director of Strategic Partnerships. In her new post, Ms. Ibarra will be responsible for creating and maintainingrelationships with VEDC partners locally and throughout the state, including those within the banking community,government offices, business associations and technical assistance organizations for the purpose of developingand implementing various programs as VEDC expands statewide.

Ms. Ibarra most recently served as the VEDC Director of Business Services where she was responsible forthe agency’s 12 technical assistance programs across the greater metropolitan Los Angeles area. She has alsoserved as VEDC’s Marketing and Development Director, where she oversaw the marketing activities for VEDCand its affiliates across 9 offices. Cynthia has developed and implemented new marketing strategies, brand andoutreach campaigns during her tenure and she will continue to serve on VEDC's Marketing Board Committee.

Replacing Ms. Ibarra as Director of Business Services is Robert Holguin. Mr. Holguin has over 11 yearsexperience in small business lending, 8 years in providing business services and more than 14 years workingwith minority businesses in Southern California. Most recently, he has served as the Director of BusinessAssistance Programs for the Latino Business Chamber of Greater Los Angeles where he was instrumental indeveloping and deploying a full service Business Assistance Division and Technology Center. Mr. Holguin isalso a past recipient of the United States Small Business Administration’s distinguished “Small BusinessMinority Champion of the Year” award.

In his new capacity at VEDC, Mr. Holguin will oversee the Business Services Department which includes theagency’s 12 technical assistance programs in 6 locations throughout the Los Angeles area. VEDC’s BusinessServices Department offers one-on-one business consulting, workshops and training to community smallbusiness owners.____________

VEDC is the largest non-profit small business lender in metro Los Angeles and offers direct micro and small business loansas well as SBA 7(a) and SBA 504 loans. VEDC has a $20 million loan portfolio and almost $40 million under managementand originates loans totally more than $35 million annually to local businesses. With six locations throughout the Los Angelesarea, VEDC supports the small business owner for 35 years with the goal of creating and sustaining jobs and businessesin low to moderate income communities by providing high-quality economic development services.


Madrid Theatre

Clyde Porter West Valley Playhouse

www.culturela.org/madridtheatre

2011 SEASONPERFORMANCE SHOW CATEGORY DATES

Gaslight Mystery Feb. 4 – Mar. 6The Chantilly Sisters Show Musical Apr. 1 – May 1Arsenic and Old Lace Comedy May 27 – June 26Summer Musical (TBA) Musical July 29 – Aug 28Lily Dale Comedy/Drama Sept 23 – Oct 23Run For Your Wife Comedy Nov 18 – Dec 18

Visit our website for abstracts about each show. Show titles subject to change.

www.whctheatre.com

Box Office: (818) 884-1907

Community News/Calendar

WE INVITE YOU TO MAKE EFFECTIVECOMMUNICATION A REALITYIf you ever had to stand up in front of a groupand make a presentation about your business—YOU NEED TOASTMASTERS!

If you ever had to introduce an important person ina public meeting and panic at the thought becauseyou don’t know how—YOU NEED TOASTMASTERS!

If you are involved in your community and need tospeak out about what you are passionate about—YOU NEED TOASTMASTERS!

If you are in a position of leadership and want toimprove your communication skills—YOU NEEDTOASTMASTERS!

Welcome to “Spirit Speaks” Toastmasters

We invite you to attend one of our meetings.No reservation is required, just show up. You won'tbe pressured to speak or join, and there is no cost.Come prepared to enjoy yourself!

Meetings: 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the monthTime: 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm

TV Motion Picture Fund CenterEducation RoomCalabasas Road at Mulholland Road(Right off the 101 Fwy at Valley Circle)Calabasas, CA 91302

For membership information contact:

Sarah Marr, VP Membership (310) 962-5445Jacquelyn Guardado, VP PR (818) 570-2235

Judi Baumbach and Carolyn Cousin-Goldman are to becongratulated on achieving their DTM (DistinguishedToastmaster) designation. The highest recognition a memberof Toastmasters may receive.

Gaslight by Patrick Hamilton now playing through March 6, 2011 at the 167 seatWest Valley Playhouse in Canoga Park.

Gaslight by Patrick Hamilton tells the story of the Manninghams of Angel Streetin the Pimlico district in London in 1880. Under the guise of kindliness, handsomeMr. Manningham is torturing his wife into insanity. Since her mother died of insanity,she is more than convinced that she, too, is going out of her mind. This is a thrillingand exciting game you will not soon forget.

Runs Feb.4 – Mar.6, 2011

Thurs., Fri., Sat. 8:00 pm, Sun. 2:30 pm

Ticket Prices are $25.00 Reg. $23.00 Seniors and Students.

Group Discounts are available.

Clyde Porter’s West Valley Playhouse 7242 Owensmouth Ave., Canoga Park, CA 91303

__

Adult Education Classes, SFVGet your GED or HS diploma. Upgrade your jobskills. Learn a new trade. New Culinary & ServeSafeCert. Classes, ESL, Sat. classes. For informationor to enroll, call Hughes Education & Career Center,818-587-4335, El Camino Real Comm. Adult School,818-595-8000, Canoga Park High School Campus,818-673-1391, Reseda High School Campus,818-758-3700.

DON’T FORGET TO VOTE. On March 8, the City ofLos Angeles Municipal Election will include 10 BallotMeasures of significant importance.

San Fernando Valley Genealogical Society

"What's New at the Los Angeles Family HistoryLibrary, FHL Catalogue Use, Microfilm Ordering,Family Search and Ship Research" will be the topicof speaker, Jon Schweitzer, at the San Fernando ValleyGenealogical Society March 18, 2011 meetingat 7:30 p.m. at the Meeting Room at the ChatsworthTrain Station,10038 Old Depot Road, Chatsworth CA91311. Jon Schweitzer is a teacher and consultantat the Los Angeles Regional Family History Center(LARFHC) in Los Angeles, CA. He has been doinggenealogy research since 1988. He is the webmasterof the official Website for the LARFHC

Join us for this interesting and informativepresentation. Visitors are welcome. Our programsare free, but donations are appreciated. You canalso find us at the following web site:

www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~casfvgs/index.html

For more information call John Lindsayat (818)349-0878.

Canoga Park-West Hills Republican Women’sMarch luncheon meeting will be held on Wednesday,March 16 from 10:30 AM-2 PM at the RadissonHotel in Chatsworth, 9777 Topanga Canyon Blvd.

Guest speaker will be Producer Leslie Dutton, 2001Emmy winner for her public affairs TV series L.A.’sWar on Terrorism, and co-founder of The AmericanFoundation of Women and of the Public TelevisionIndustry Corporation.

Lunch is $22 and a reservation is needed. Phone:818-894-1091.

Canoga Park Bowl and the San Fernando Valley Symphony Orchestra

PRESENT

Concerts at the BowlWednesday Evenings at 8:00pm

In the Royal Room

March 9th

FeaturingRhombus Records Recording Artists

Thom Teresi and The Street Smart Band perform original, latin & standard jazz tunes

March 16th

FeaturingRich Capparela, lead vocal, guitar and keyboards

Rob Davis, lead guitar; Juse Woythaler, bass guitar andBarry Kohan, drums;

March 23rd

A Classical Recital (TBA)

March 30th

The Blues Bandits

FeaturingDavid Reo, guitar and vocals; Jimi Dee, guitar and vocals;

Gary Herbig, saxophone; Larry Muradian, bass guitar and Scott Firestone, drums

Admission Free

20122 Vanowen Street, Winnetka, CAPersons under 21 years of age not admitted.

FREE E-Waste CollectionSaturday & SundayMarch 12 & 139:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.Canoga Park Bowl parking lot20122 Vanowen St.Canoga ParkFor information call (818) 989-0300

Reflections of Our CommunityParents, students, and community members were on hand as awards were presented to thirteen

enthusiastic students who were the prize winning participants in the Woodland Hills-WarnerCenter Poster Contest, Reflections of Our Community. Fifty students from grades Kindergartenthrough twelve participated in the poster contest, which was open to students living in, orattending school in Woodland Hills. The awards ceremony was held at Westfield Topanga onTuesday, February 15th. Posters were on display from February 15th through February 28th.Joshua Lainez Herrera, a kindergarten student, was the grand prize winner. Karen Koe,Neighborhood Council chairperson, and Marilyn Anderson, WHWCNC Education CommitteeChair, presented the awards.

Sponsors of the contest included the Woodland Hills-Tarzana Chamber of Commerce,Councilman Dennis Zine, Westfield Topanga, Target, Paul Shively and Associates, andJoyce and Peter Fletcher of Plan R Marketing.

Canoga Park 100th Kick Off CelebrationMarch 156:30-8:00PMClyde Porter West Valley Playhouse7242 Owensmouth AvenueCanoga Park, CA 91303For information call (818) 882-4222

Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa to attend

Need a Thin Mint break?Help is on the way! Girl Scouts started setting up shop throughout the Greater Los Angeles Area beginningFriday, February 25, tempting cookie lovers with eight varieties of Girl Scout Cookies, including the ever-popular chocolate, minty Thin Mint flavor.

More than 28,000 Girl Scouts from Girl Scouts of Greater Los Angeles (GSGLA), which encompasses allof LA County and parts of San Bernardino, Kern and Ventura counties, will be out in the community infront of grocery stores, banks and other businesses. Need help finding cookies? Visit the Cookie Locatorat www.girlscoutsLA.org to find your nearest cookie booth locations.

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AIR CONDITIONING


WEST VALLEY NEWS BUSINESS BY REFERRAL

ADVERTISE IN THE WEST VALLEY NEWS. COMMUNITY ADVERTISING AT AFFORDABLE RATES. 818.883.3374C A L A B A S A S / C A N O G A PA R K / C H AT SW O R T H / R E S E D A / TA R Z A N A / W E S T H I L L S / W I N N E T K A / W O O D L A N D H I L L S

SAMPLE ONLINE LISTING

ADVERTISING/GRAPHIC DESIGN

Crowe Marketing DesignEd CroweT (818) 883-3374 M (818) 231-4454ecrowe@crowemarketingdesign.comwww.crowemarketingdesign.com

West Valley NewsCommunity AdvertisingEd Crowe (818) 231-4454advertising@westvalleynews-sfv.comwww.westvalleynews-sfv.com

Advertise for 6-12 issues and get your contact informationlisted online 24/7 in BUSINESS BY REFERRAL free of charge.

You also get a FREE business profile with photo. A value of $250.

Classified ads not included in this offer.

COMING SOON!A business exchange program with value-addedbenefits to participating members. Be part of it.

For information about BizEx contact:

Ed Crowe | CROWE MARKETING DESIGN | Since 1986818.883.3374 Direct 818.231.4454 [email protected]

If you are in business in the San Fernando Valley, you want to be part of BizEx.There are over 70,000 registered businesses operating in the San Fernando Valley.

SPANISH CLASSES

• Tutoring studentsall levels

• ProfessionalsMrs. Cristina818-713-9238

“My goal is for students to enjoy learning”• Summer Classes

Wall to wall carpet, brand new kitchen cupboards,Central A/C. Good credit and background checkis a must. Sorry no pets.

Please call (818) 887-3386

APARTMENT FOR RENT

PHOTO RESTORATION

BEFORE AFTER

Digital Photo RetouchingDigital Restoration of Old Photographs

Color and B&W

SEAN CROWE (818) 274-2890

Canoga Park 2 Bed, 2 Bath Apartment for Rent $1,181

$25PER ISSUE

Regular Rate $50

Your BusinessCard Size Adhere in B&Wfor ONLY

CROWE MARKETING DESIGN Special 25th Anniversary Offer

Valid Jan-June 2011with AdvertisingInsertion Orders of6 issues minimum.YOU SAVE $150

Soon you will beable to FLEXyourBizEx™and SAVE!

50%

Do you need more customers?Local customers are searching the Internet right nowfor your products and services in your neighborhood!

Can they easily find you?We can make it easy for prospective clients to find you.

We’ll put you on the map with a professionaland optimized Google Places listing!

Take the first step now and call 818-883-3374and ask how we can get your business at the top of the list.

When You Advertise in the West Valley News You’re Online 24/7

MAXIMIZE VISIBILITY & EXPOSURE OF YOUR BUSINESSwith monthly print advertising and 24/7 Google Places local exposure

ONLY $157 per month with 6-month agreement

Your business promotion/advertising bundle includes:

– Business card size ad in the West Valley News (See sample above)– Print ad exposure in 8 communities in the west valley– 24/7 online listing of contact information in WVN Web site– Optimized Google Places local mapping for top ten, first page placement– Monitoring of SEO keywords and period updates

Call Monika Heigh at (818) 614-0362 for details.

Ask her about the West Valley News 24/7 Promotion Bundle

NEW


The West Valley News is now online 24/7. Get your business on Ed’s List of Business by Referral. Call 818.883.3374

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positive changeby ed