Chapter News

MARTIN HORWITZ: BUSINESS AND GENERAL LAW ATTORNEY

Martin Horwitz – Business and General Law Attorney.      Martin shared his busy and interesting week so far, which started off with a client receiving a $4.7 million award and included getting a restraining order against an ex-husband who thought his ex-wife was being used by Martin’s client as a sex slave.  Martin believes it is cheaper to do it right than to fix it, so see him first to review your legal matters.

CATHE CARAWAY-HOWARD: EMPLOYMENT ATTORNEY

Cathe Caraway-Howard – Employment Attorney.    Cathe stressed how important it is to keep good business records and ensure that company policies and procedures for hiring and firing are carried out properly.  Employees must be trained and know what is expected of them.  She represents both management and employees in employment matters.  A good tip for her is a business being sued or an employee not being treated properly.

BARRY MOSER: ACCOUNTANT

Barry Moser - Accountant.    Barry spoke about planning for retirement and discussed the choices we have in which to save, such as having an IRA or a defined benefit plan.  He pointed out that you can start collecting social security as early as age 62 and can invest the money but should remember that it is taxable.  He has a full service tax firm and can help you plan for your future.

ADAMM GRITEFELD: STAINED GLASS AND GALLERY

Adamm Gritlefeld – Adamm’s Stained Glass and Gallery.     Our new Vice President reminded us to show respect during meetings by not speaking when another member has the floor.  He then introduced us to his new committee chairs.  Adamm’s gallery specializes in art glass and creates stained and leaded glass, beveled glass and etched and carved glass windows, doors and skylights.

SHAWN KHAN: SECURITY SYSTEMS

Shawn Khan - Security Systems, spoke about cameras versus alarm systems and reminded us that for comprehensive security for home and businesses, alarm system is a must to have. Security cameras serve as deterrent and alarm as observation and notification and are monitored by a central station. At the same time, cameras are becoming very popular for monitoring and now come with instant texting features and prevent false alarm fees. Shawn likes wired systems better than wireless both for cost and performance.

GAIL GORNICK: PSYCHOLOGIST

Gail Gornick - Psychologist, works with children, teens, adults, couples, and families for many common issues such as depression and anxiety. She concentrated on infidelity in her presentation and while not passing any judgments on her clients, helps couples on this tough issue to save and repair their relationships. She believes that both partners should be willing to repair their relationship in order for the therapy to work, and touched on why people commit adultery which among other causes could potentially be the result of unresolved childhood issues, midlife crisis, arrival of a new baby, bereavement, illness, or job loss.

JORGE MIRA: GLASS CONTRACTOR

Jorge Mira - Glass Contractor, showed slides of his recent work with architects who use a lot of glass in their work for balconies, doors, gates and more. Jorge with many years of commercial and residential experience, takes on projects of all sizes and budgets.

RICHARD RAMER: ARCHITECT

Richard Ramer - Architect, reminded us that Architecture is more than the beautiful photographs taken when construction work is finished. The ideas behind a design are often best seen in preliminary drawings of a project. In his presentation Richard showed both hand and computer drawn images of projects, most of which were never built; an interesting behind-the-scene look into the world of commercial and residential architectural design.

BOB BORDEN: KAY STATIONERS

Bob Borden - Kay Stationers.   Bob sells a wide range of office supplies, from paper clips to tape to rubber stamps and everything in between.  You can contact him and he will personally deliver your order to the Le Tip meeting if your items are in stock.   His motto is “service worth the wait!”

SIGMUND THOMAS: TERMITE AND PEST CONTROL

Sigmund Thomas - Beetles Termite Pest Control Co.      Sigmund understands the nature of the pests he is dealing with and how to eliminate them so you can have peace of mind.  He showed us how his company uses roach bait to rid your home of roaches because the roaches are attracted to this product, they ingest it and take it back with them to other roaches.   The infestation is usually eliminated in three days and lasts for months.

SHARYN HILLYER: LIFE COACH

Sharyn Hillyer - Life Coach.      If you are struggling, your life is stagnant, you seem to make the same New Year’s resolution year after year, Sharyn can help you understand why the same situations are created over and over, how to get over these difficulties and achieve your goals.   She teaches you how to deal with situations on your own.   She listens “between the words” to hear what you’re really saying and tells you the truth with love.   Look for her distress workshop coming soon.

NORM FISHMAN: MEMORIAL PARK AND MORTUARY SERVICES

Norm Fishman - Memorial Park and Mortuary Services.     The time of death is for mourning and for celebrating the deceased’s life.  We don’t think about dying but we all need to prepare for it.  Have a conversation with your loved ones about decisions that need to be made and then make an appointment with Norm to discuss preplanning services offered by Hillside Memorial Park & Mortuary.   Norm says it is a gift to your family.

ROBERT MEDICI: HANDYMAN

Robert Medici - Handyman, reminded us of his ancestors who go back to the renaissance period in Europe and presented a slide show of his musical wood creations including some of the very hard to do handyman+ jobs he does around town. Robert closely works with all sorts of installation and maintenance providers and helps to beautify and patch their leftover work. Among many other skills, he does complete fence replacements and stucco work as well.

LISA PASCHALL: MASSAGE THERAPIST

Lisa Paschall - Massage Therapist, spoke about how to create and maintain a balanced and healthy body avoiding most common places of pain which are tight muscles on the neck and shoulder area and also lower back and sciatic nerves. Lisa who travels to her clients’ homes, helps break the pattern of pain before it becomes chronic and reduces stress related symptoms such as upset stomach and headaches. She reminded us that taking advantage of regular Massage, which has been around for 4000 years with no side effects, helps control migraine headaches and speed recovery from illness and surgery.

CLEVELAND MORRIS: DRAIN CLEANING

Cleveland Morris - Drain cleaning, spoke about some of his success stories in helping commercial and residential clients around town. Some of his services are: rooting, root intruding treatment, camera work, anything that requires access to the sewer system including problems with drainage system. Morris is meticulous and cleans the working site after his work is finished, protecting your property. His prompt service and work is a favorite of condo associations as well.

MICHAEL SIMMONS: BUSINESS INSURANCE

Michael Simmons - Business Insurance, traced his family’s emigration from England as a youngster and talked about his joining US Air Force and NY national guard later on in life. Michael, in insurance business since the 60's, has extensive experience representing many insurance companies and his policies help cover all professions in addition to commercial properties. He writes liability and workers comp coverages and insures commercial vehicles. Michael also does fidelity bonds and spoke about his referral program incentives which includes gift card plus entry into an annual raffle.

TIM GUILLE: MUSIC INSTRUCTOR

Tim Guille, Music Instructor, spoke about his upcoming summer classes starting in June in Culver City, where kids jam alongside their peers and cap it with a show making presentations. His fellow All Music instructors, Javier and Dave also played a fun beat game with us and the winner walked away with a  bottle of fine wine.

NICK MENDOZA: ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR

Nick Mendoza, Electrical Contractor, spoke about his recent celebration of 13th years in our Club while performing all jobs related to electrical work: from a simple service call to replacing and installing switches for pools, gates, new track lighting, and adjusting electrical voltages. Nick's company, in business since 1989, started after immigrating from his native Mexico, performs residential in addition to commercial projects and offers guarantee for their work.

ERIC AGAKI: PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR

 Eric Agaki, Private Investigator: fresh from running a news maker sting operation in LA's kosher meat scene, showed the TV coverage of his latest operation in addition to his last year's wedding's video. Eric's firm among other services, provides background checks for potential hires and tenants. He also conducts lie detector tests and serves legal documents. 

LULA MALOTA: CLINICAL HYPNOTHERAPIST

Lula Malota - Clinical Hypnotherapist.   Lula showed us the power of our imagination and how to use hypnosis to help our subconscious mind change our thoughts or habits.  She facilitated a relaxation technique for the group:  focus inward, breathe deeply, exhale, resume natural breathing and breathe in relaxation, breath out stress and tension, relax all the muscles in your body, be open to suggestion.  She said that after being hypnotized most people feel like they’ve had a good nap.

CATHE CARAWAY HOWARD: EMPLOYMENT ATTORNEY

Cathe Caraway-Howard - Employment Attorney.   Cathe’s motto: I am fighting for all of you!   She represents employees and management, gives free consultations and has competitive hourly rates.  She explained to us that every employee should be given a pay stub by their employer even if they are paid in cash.  Cathe reminded us that Le tip is a lifetime commitment, you get what you give and what goes around comes around.

JOEL BARNEHAMA: AFLAC SUPPLEMENTAL INSURANCE

Joel Barnehama - AFLAC  ,   Described how supplemental insurance provides a safety net to individuals and groups as it picks up where major medical leaves off.   Aflac provides cash to help pay for daily living expenses incurred due to illness or injury, such as rent, groceries, child care and transportation.  Clients receive a check in seven to ten days.  Employees own their own plan and take it with them wherever they go.   There is no expense to the employer for providing these benefits.  Aflac also pays wellness benefits so you can go to the doctor for health screenings.

MICHAEL TAN: HOME THEATRE SYSTEMS

Mike Tan - Home Theatre Systems, started with singing a Beetles song and then spoke about his 12 year old business and his over 500 installations. His expertise is in setting up for smart homes with web controlled systems, dedicated media rooms, multi room audio service, and  lighting hook ups for all homes including large estate homes using custom made graphs and charts for larger projects.

KARL BROOK: REMODELING CONTRACTOR

Karl Brook - Remodeling Contractor, showed slides of some of his modern and complete remodeling projects he has done; many needing massive demolition first. He does small and large kitchens, uses lots of glass in his work, does wine cellars, decks in the backyard and much more.  Carl also helps in water stain removal and mold cases while dealing with his clients’ insurance companies and city inspectors.  

JUSTIN SLOGGATT: VIDEO PRODUCTION

Justin Sloggatt - Video Production, shared his first narration in a play and performance at his primary school in New York. He showed portions of a new 22 minute comedy called Doc Sweet that he has been producing in addition to some of his recent business promotion videos. Justin offers video deposition services with searchable features for Attorneys and law professionals, tape and camcorder media conversions, and produces marketing videos both for websites and offline

SAM ROSENBERG: RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

Sam Rosenberg - spoke about his retirement community in Santa Monica which has been open since 1978 and provides a full supportive feeling of an actual home for its residents.  His family owned and operated center which was just filmed for a super bowl commercial, offers fully furnished 1 and 2 room suites and also takes couples.  Sam’s current 86 residents are assured of experiencing an enriched life which includes lots of amenities such as secured entrance, chef prepared meals and restaurant like dining, variety of activities music, religious gatherings, and computer and internet access.

TONY SANTARELLI: IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY

Tony Santarelli - Immigration Attorney, skillfully and literally showed the many “shoes” he has worn in his law practice career, trying different specialties and how he ended up practicing immigration. Tony is excited about the upcoming changes in federal immigration laws and shared a story of his success in helping a client get his Green Card despite mixed identity issues created by his law breaking brother.   

KENDRIC ROLLINS: CRIMINAL LAW ATTORNEY

Kendric Rollins - Criminal Law Attorney, who represents many defendants in DUI cases, shared some of his latest cases and gave more tips on how not to get pulled over and what to say when you are about to get arrested. He recommended making sure our headlights are on when driving a new car or after valet pick up, and after exiting a car wash.  He also spoke about the importance of being honest with your attorney and expecting mail solicitations from other attorneys, in case you do get arrested.

DAN VILLAMIL: WINDOW TINTING

Dan Villamil - Window Tints, Etc., showed a video on safety and security of window films on glass. Glass which is used all around us and so common in our lives, can become a hazard in an instance in case of bad weather, explosions, earthquake, a catastrophic situation, or even when a meteoroid hits the earth! Window film helps prevent property and bodily damage, reduces the risk of flying glass and is highly recommended for child safety. Dan also recommended frame guard anchoring system which helps major damage at many of the military installations, high cell phone outlets, and oil refineries he has installed.

JEFFERY MARKS: VETERINARIAN

Jeffery Marks - Rancho Park Veterinary Clinic, emphasized the importance of yearly full physical examinations and how pet dentistry such as scaling detail of every tooth, can prevent bacteria in the pet’s mouth from damaging internal organs. His examinations include blood testing, urine analysis, inserting IV catheter, and using pulse-oxometry to monitor heart beat. Dr. Marks runs his 50 year old family business which offers full service, fully equipped surgical and in-house laboratory, from two offices: one in Downtown which is open 7 days a week and another in Culver City, open 6 days a week.

BRUCE LORMAN: REAL ESTATE ATTORNEY

Bruce Lorman - Real Estate Law, highlighted some of his clients’ tenant - landlord relationships gone bad. While he pushes for settlements in many of these cases, he has been successful with additional filings of specific lawsuits to either evict an unlawful tenant or make them pay for property damages they have caused. Bruce, who has been named a “superlawyer” for the second year in a row via Superlawyer magazine, is also a member of the “Million Dollar Advocates” club and helps his clients avoid disputes by reviewing and negotiating their real estate agreements, such as leases and agreements with contractors and neighbors.

CAL KELLY: CUSTOM WOODWORKER

Cal Kelly - Think Inside, showed a video on the latest machinery in his shop and some of newer projects he has been working on. He also showed a collection of pictures he took in his one mile walk to the beach, documenting the plethora of various industrial and urban designs around us. Cal’s woodworking creations include home entertainment sets, custom furniture, and finish cabinetry in addition to exterior of homes, buildings, and outdoor seating projects.

LIONELL TROUILLIER: PAYPROS / PAYROLL SERVICE

Lionell Trouillier – PayPros, asked us some questions to test our payroll services knowledge: What is the penalty for failing to file accurate W-2s and 1099s?   Answer:  $100 each.  What is the maximum tax credit for hiring an unemployed veteran?   Answer:  $9,600.   When does an employee who is fired receive their final paycheck?  Answer:  Immediately.  Lionel knows the answers to these and all other payroll-related questions.  So when the question is asked:  What is the best way to pay your people?  The answer is:  Have PayPros do it!

BRYAN ANGSTMAN: CARPET CLEANING

Bryan Angstman - Naturally Green Carpet Cleaning, asked the question:  Is your home healthy or is it a toxic dump?  He showed how the use of common cleaning products that we grew up with, such as Liquid Plumr, Sos Pads and Resolve, are actually toxic to our health.   Even toiletries such as soap, lotion, sunscreen, tooth paste, mouthwash, makeup and deodorant can be toxic.. Paint and varnish, plastic/vinyl seating, carpet, particle board furniture, cleaning products, upholstery and mattresses can emit VOC’s (volatile organic compounds) as gasses into your home which can cause short- and long-term adverse health effects.  Sometimes the air in your home is worse than the air outside, so Bryan suggests that we switch to nontoxic products, vacuum often and use nontoxic toiletries.  So don’t forget to open your windows and let fresh air in and call Bryan to organically clean your mattresses, draperies and carpet. 

ALVARD BARSEGHIAN: AUTO BODY REPAIR

Alvard Barseghian’s, Harry’s Auto Collision Center, which is located at the corner of Olympic and La Brea for over 40 years handles complete auto body repair work, uses state-of-the-art equipment, and offer a lifetime warranty on all repairs.  Harry’s works with most insurance companies and as an insurance-direct repair shop, save you the hassle of directly dealing with the insurance company.  They arrange for a free loaner car, in addition to Enterprise Rent-A-Car which is also on the premises for your convenience.  Harry’s is an approved and authorized repair center for many types of cars including Aston Martin.  Alvard’s motto is: “Harry’s will fix the dent in your car and not make a dent in your wallet!”

JOHN HUTSLER: COMPUTERS (ANYTHING RELATED TO MICROSOFT PRODUCTS)

John Hutsler, Practical Computer Solutions - PC Hardware, Software & Networking, has been in business for twenty years and a Le Tip member since 1997. He is a Certified Microsoft Specialist with access to the highest level of MS technical support and handles all Windows systems, including Installation and service. PCS can network computers and peripherals so they work best with the specific application, in addition to tuning  up workstations to run faster. John, who is covered by his professional liability insurance policy, is proud to remind us that none of his clients have ever lost any data, through a combination of offsite and onsite backup systems he provides.

SHARYN HILLYER: RELATIONSHIP AND LIFE COACH

Sharyn Hillyer - Relationship and Life Coach.   Started by asking: How do you build confidence? The answer applies to all changing habits, acquiring new skills achieving success in anything. She proposed 4 steps to accomplish this by firstly setting a goal and make a commitment to preserve it; Paying attention to negative chatter in our heads by using the 3 R’s method: Recognize it, Refuse it, and then Replace it; Visualization technique by creating successful pictures of our accomplishments in our minds and using the Meridian tapping technique. Sharyn continues her detailed examinations of these techniques on “Tuesdays with Sharyn” sessions and private consultations.

BRIAN WHITNEY: FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Brian Whitney - UBS Financial Services.   Financial Advisor and a 20 year veteran of his firm, introduced us to usdebtclock.org, where we can see the accumulating US and States’ debt numbers which is staggering and is piling up at the rate of $3 for each $1 the government spends. Brian, who offers free consultations, encouraged us to become more self reliant and emphasized his expertise in tax planning, retirement savings and growth, creating benefit plans such as 401k’s and other financial planning means, as the best ways to insulate ourselves from the economic factors outside of our control.

PETER TAUB: APPLIANCE REPAIR

Peter Taub - Appliance Repair.   Peter’s takes care of all appliances and does analysis of the problem before taking the job and makes his recommendations. Many testimonials from the members during his presentation, confirmed the quality of his work, his promptness, and his knowledge of the intricacies of appliance components.

BARAK GRANOT: UNIQUE WEB CONSULTING

Barak Granot - Unique Web Consulting.   Internet SEO, spoke about pre-internet era (if you can imagine that!) and how consumers used to find what they were looking for. Now 81% are reviewing what they are looking for online now. He described the evolution of smart search algorithm and how personalized search became mainstream with consumer reviews becoming a major factor for business owners, SEO and social media getting married and with explosion of mobile devices, a parallel search engine came about with its own ecosystem . Barak helps all businesses take advantage of these profound changes and remain competitive in the evolving Internet SEO field.

JEFFREY FRITZ & LAURA BUFFONE: Coldwell Banker, Green Cities

JEFFREY FRITZ & LAURA BUFFONE – Coldwell Banker, Green Cities Residential Real Estate, spoke about how his and Laura’s combined 16 years of experience in the field, is an asset to take care of purchase and sale transactions for their clients. Many are recurring clients and they are taking advantage of Jeff and Laura’s specialties in Leed, AP eco brokerage, and short sales certification, in this once again hot market. He gave examples of some of the recent listings they have closed and emphasized that the current market median price is up 17% in Los Angeles with tight inventories and multiple offers on many properties. Also, historical low interest rates was cited as another strong contributor to bringing more buyers to the market.

NISSIM MAIMON: Air Pros, Inc.

NISSIM MAIMON – Heating and Air Conditioning contractor, spoke about the comprehensive energy assessments he runs on his prospects’ homes and offices, which are followed by modeling software reports, and load calculations in order to determine how much they can save in energy consumption and apply for compensation from the State. Nissim, who has been in HVAC trade for 20 years and his company Air Pros is licensed, bonded, and insured while installing and repairing cooling, heating, zoning, and filtrations systems. His upgrades add to the comfort and health of his clients, while helping reduce asthma and allergies symptoms as it was the case in a recent prospect’s home. Nissim’s best prospects are individual homeowners, HOAs, landlords, contractors, energy services companies, property management companies, and anyone who is interested in living in a comfortable and clean indoor environment.

CATHY CAHILL: Cahill Physical Therapy

CATHY CAHILL– First asked all of us about if we had a resolution for the New Year to take care of our bodies? With the Healthcare laws changing, she emphasized taking care of ourselves, manage and get rid of all chronic pain, and learn how to balance our shoulders. With Chidi from her office, she demonstrated 6 simple moves, some holding weights to keep the body healthy. They included simple abdominal exercise, simple twist, use all of body parts, hamstring help, reaching the arms overhead, rotate and lunge, do back and rotations, and keeping the spine and core straight. Cathy’s office takes most insurance plans and is available for consultations.

JESUS HERNANDEZ: THE PERFECT DETAIL

JESUS HERNANDEZ – Auto Detail and Car Wash - Jesus and Rachel showed pictures of their family travels and told us more in detail about Perfect Detail, and the comprehensive and high quality care he provides for interior and exterior of all of their clients’ cars. Jesus applies paint sealer, adds complementary tire air, details with professional shampoo, polishes, and even steam cleans the mats. He also provides onsite car wash and works with many classic cars.

JANE HALL: Estate Tax Attorney & BARRY MOSER: C.P.A.

JANE HALL & BARRY MOSER– teamed up and interviewed a client while going over the new and existing Estate Tax Laws. Jane interviewed her client asking about his net worth and other personal needs. She discussed how to use the Estate tax credit for married individual which can exceed 10 million dollars. Barry helped her in the interview to show how the two professionals work together in Estate Tax Planning cases.  Later, Barry talked about how small businesses should stay in compliance with the various tax laws.  He also went over some of the new provisions of the American Tax Relief Act of 2012, such as filing 1099’s for independent contractors, and the change in Sales Tax Rates starting January 1, 2013. 

ED GRAMAJO: EXCELSIOR DIGITAL REPROGRAPHICS

ED GRAMAJO – Document Management- spoke about the origins of his company since 2006 specializing in coding, onsite scanning and document reproductions, trial exhibit boards, electronic data digital archiving, and documents that become searchable after scanning. Ed who works with many law firms and other businesses, serves out of two locations and provides free pickup and delivery for his clients.

FRANK TAPANES: POWERFUL SYSTEMS

FRANK TAPANES –Showed slides of the many jobs he has done for residential and commercial sites. Some require wiring in the house to fit and operate his automated shades. Options offered are motorized window coverings in addition to manual stationary draperies fit for all rooms of the house. Frank’s prices fit all budgets starting from $300 to $500/window and up. Draperies can open up horizontal and vertical and protect rooms from the sun. Ipads can also be programmed to operate his installations. He works with contractors and can install same day jobs while offering over 700 fabrics to choose from. Frank’s Show Room on Washington Blvd., also displays many options and patterns for designers to take advantage for their clients.

RICK BAUM, ATTORNEY - BANKRUPTCY LAW

RICK BAUM-Spoke about the many personal benefits of our LeTip membership such as more personal confidence and constantly becoming better public speakers. He recommended since this chapter has helped every one of us get better all the time, we should be aiming even higher by throwing our hats in and run for the Board this year. Rick spoke about his own Board experience which helped him become a better person and a better Attorney, and sharpened his abilities to set goals and influence others to get ideas moving and implemented by learning to listen and sort out consensus. Interested? Please contact him and/or Brian Whitney for more information.

DONNA WOLFE - DONCHKA TRAVEL

DONNA WOLFE - Travel Agent with Plaza Travel, her host agency, spoke about the many benefits of the Signature Travel Consortium she belongs to.  Its 4000 members get much stronger buying power with benefits and amenities such as: free breakfast for every hotel booked, complimentary upgrades including spa access, internet access, early check in and late check outs, cruise privileges including free money to spend on the Ship, and a smart phone App for finding destinations wherever you are traveling on the planet. Donna, who in 2012 alone, has traveled for a total of 83 days during 15 separate trips to 5 states and 7 countries, has personally experienced many of the places she recommends. She possesses a wealth of information and is a wonderful alternative to any advertised internet bookings.

MICHELE LAMARCHE - ACUPUNCTURIST

MICHELE LAMARCHE- Started by asking simple questions: What is the definition of health for you? What is toxicity? Do you want to think preventive or seek reactionary treatment after you get sick? Which one is less costlier in the long run? She then highlighted the course of her treatments for some patients who originally came to her with existing conditions. In many cases, she has detected toxicity in their systems which mostly comes from external sources, but also can be created internally where they hang out in body’s fat and liver. For LeTip members and referrals, Michelle is offering Specials on her 24 day purify-and-prevent method which includes free classes to educate you in addition to enjoying her herbal nourishment method.

DENNIS SMITH - PLUMBING CONTRACTOR

 DENNIS SMITH - Little Red Truck Plumbing  (Plumbing contractor), shared with us more details of the recent episode involving his actually red truck, which was briefly in the hands of criminals but was eventually recovered. Dennis who continues full force offering his services for residential and commercial plumbing installations and repair, is marching forward, open for business, and available for consultations.

JOSE DIAZ: ROOFING CONTRACTOR

Jose Diaz - JAD Roofing Contractor, showed a promotional video of his services made by Justin of 614 Productions. He does roofing work- repair and new roofs, for residential, commercial and industrial clients. Jose offers free inspections and estimates in addition to 24 hour customer service. LeTip members and referrals enjoy his best prices and workmanship.

TIRAN SHEMESH: HOME DECOR

Tiran Shemesh - Universal Rug and Oil Paintings Showed a video introducing most items he carries at his 18000 sf warehouse in Glendale. He carries imported hand and machine made area rugs, in addition to traditional and modern furniture for home and business. Other items and services include chandeliers (with installation), custom framing and portrait painting, statues, custom sofa beds and mattresses. Tiran also does home staging and matches the best price his customers can find on the internet.

SHAWN KHAN: SURVEILLANCE SECURITY SYSTEMS

Shawn Khan - 1^st Digital Surveillance Security Systems, spoke in detail about analogue, IP digital & High Definition cameras in the market. Most installed cameras are digital ones such as speed cameras, motion DVR, hidden cameras, and fish-eyed cameras with 360 degree vision which are made of almost 4 cameras in one unit. Other choices he offers are: pc based, NVR and Hybrid 4, 8 or 16 channel cameras similar to a TIVO system. Shawn also works with existing systems and does trouble shooting.

KATE ALDIN: FAMILY LAW ATTORNEY

Kate Aldin - Law Offices of Schuchman & Marshall Family Law Attorney, spoke about the Kardashian vs Humphrey’s very short term marriage case and the twist of events including the legal battle they are waging, with even arguing the whole marriage a fraud and the many questions remaining such as, the existence of a prenuptial agreement and issues with child support. Kate and her firm located in Century City, handle all aspects of prenup and divorce matters between couples.

RON BENVENISTE: PAINTING CONTRACTOR

Ron Benveniste, RB Painting Company - Painting contractor - Shared slides of an ongoing project where his crew built new windows and doors for the large property from scratch. His full time team put new finish on each object and methodically prepared each component. Ron’s services help get rid of mold, water stains, and old finishes in addition to high-end paint jobs. He also works on craftsman style homes of all kinds.

P.J. BERGIS: LANDSCAPE / WATERSCAPE DESIGNER

P.J. Bergis, Studio H2O Landscape Designer - P.J. who was educated as an Architect and is now practicing landscape and water design, showed us slide of his many creations around the world. His motto is: Landscape + Hardscape + Water = Harmony, and he enjoys working with families to create outdoor spaces for family living and entertaining. Outdoor spaces act as a stage for creating long lasting family memories. He reminded us that the complete landscape design is comprised of only 10% landscape and 90% other features such as: hardscape, water features, lighting, irrigation, drainage, fire pits, bar structures, outdoor kitchens, gazebos, trellis, hot tubs, and swimming pools. Swimming pools can also act as water features when not being used. P.J. does commercial and residential projects of all types.

TIM PETLIN: HOME HEALTH CARE

Tim Petlin, of Right At Home Health Care - Gave us a brief insight into his personal life outside of work, which involves many things including training for triathlons and being the head coach for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s (LLS) Team in Training program.  He has coached over 650 athletes and his teams have raised over $3 million for LLS research and aid to families.  His company, Right at Home, provide in-home care and service to seniors and disabled adults throughout Los Angeles.  His dedicated team of caregivers help families with caring for individuals that need some extra help.  Services focus on helping individuals with activities of daily living, including:  ambulation and fall prevention, bathing, dressing, medication reminders, transportation, meal preparation, and companionship.  They do everything from 1-hour to 24-hour care.

JOHN FRIEDMAN: JEWELER

John Friedman, of Millers Gem  -  Jeweler- A source for cost effective gift solutions for Holidays and many other occasions showcased his latest earrings, bracelets, necklaces and rings with Kate Aldin and Cathy Cahill as the models walking around the room. John who also does jewelry repair, offers prices at a fraction of retail prices using superior material with and comprehensive local customer service.

SHAWN KHAN: SECURITY SYSTEMS

Shawn Khan of 1^st Digital Surveillance - Security Systems, decoded “CCTV” which stands for “Close Circuit Television”, the most common type of cameras now used in surveillance systems. Shawn offers indoor cameras in many different colors in addition to outdoor, parking lot surveillance cameras, night vision and vandal resistant pan tilted, bullet cameras with night vision, license plate recognition models, hidden cameras which look like alarm systems, cameras that come with audio support, and fish eye cameras with panoramic coverage in the room.

VATCHE AZIRIAN: AWNINGS AND CANOPIES

Vatche Azirian of Alpha Productions Windows & Doors: Awnings & Canopies, shared his family’s 2010 ski trip video to Mammoth with lots of footage of fun snow. Vatche, who took over his family owned manufacturing business - operating in LA since 1977, holds a mechanical engineering degree from UCLA and speaks fluent Mandarin. He also shared the details of a patent he holds on a briefcase that turns into a table which he created while in school. He offers several lines of retractable awnings and skylights that are best installed for the interior and exterior of residential and commercial properties.

BARAK GRANOT: INTERNET SEO

 Barak Granot, Unique Web Consulting  -  Internet SEO - covered the importance of having a 5 stars reputation online. He stated statistics that even if you we are basing our business on referrals, 81% of the people referred to us will still look us up online and without having close to 10 reviews with 5 stars, our business is not trusted online. Barak continued that since we are always one customer away from getting a bad review, one must develop a system for getting reviews, market them, manage the bad one and create a reputation marketing culture for our company.

ADAMM GRITLEFELD: STAINED GLASS AND GALLERY

Adamm Gritlefeld of Adamm’s Stained Glass & Gallery  -  Decorative Glass, showed a video of his recent family trip to South America’s beautiful spots and told us about his passion in stained glass craft since he started in the field back in 1972. Adamm in addition to owning his gallery on 4^th street in Santa Monica, works with many different nonprofit entities such as temples, synagogues, universities, museums, and does highly specialized stain glass repair and detailed historic preservation projects.

MARTIN HORWITZ: BUSINESS ATTORNEY

Martin Horwitz of Law Offices of Martin Horwitz  -  Business & General Law Attorney, reminded us again about professional review of our contracts before signing and shared the details of a recent deposition case where he faced a hot shot corporate attorney, and with the help of Robin Leonard’s court reporting and Justin’s video deposition services, made the other side admit to damaging and critical testimony and got the answers he saw best for his client and won the case for him.

ROBIN LEONARD: COURT REPORTER

 Robin Leonard of Leonard CSR  -  Court Reporter, who has extensive experience in the field and works with many different Attorneys, did a demonstration of a typical deposition and showed us how she uses her laptop and syncs it with her stenograph equipment while recording the process. Robin also is a power partner with Justin Sloggatt who provides video recording during many of her deposition sessions.

EVE MAZZARA: GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Eve Mazzara of Getart Graphics  -  Graphic Designer, shared the step by step anatomy of a recent logo she prepared for Robert Portillo’s Tech Store on Abbot Kinney in Venice. She showed us how she takes advantage of her interactions and feedback of the client in crafting a comprehensive but simple logo that says a lot while captureing the essences, identity, and scope of the business and can lead to a long term Brand recognition. 

DR. NEIL MCLEOD: DENTIST

Dr. Neil McLeod - Born in Oxford and raised in Kenya, educated by the Catholic Priests in Nairobi.  Neil Attended Guy’s Hospital Dental School in London.  He was a Fulbright scholar at USC Dental School.  In 1976 he acquired an established dental practice on Sunset, which he has successfully run for the past 36 years.  Today Neil beautifully recited “A Biting Chance,” 1621 A.D., The First Thanksgiving, for an appreciative audience.  For a video, see:  http://abitingchance.blogspot.com/search?q=phil+macavity

RICK BAUM: BANKRUPTCY LAW

Rick Baum -  Bankruptcy Attorney..Rick did not speak about bankruptcy today, rather he spoke about himself and told three stories.  Rick was born in California, graduated from L.A. High School; studied art history at UCLA and earned his Juris Doctorate from Southestern School of Law followed by earning his Masters in Law at University of Cambridge.

He is celebrating his birthday tomorrow.  1. Aretino, who’s ego was big enough to tell Michelangelo how to paint the Sistene Chapel;  2. Hedy Lamarr, one of the most beautiful women ever, invented spread spectrum radio, a technology that is in cell phones today; 3. Dmitri Shostakovich composed a theme based upon a one-time hearing of a song from NoNo Nanette and actually has a connection to Babe Ruth (look it up).  Did you hear the news:  Hostess Twinkies are being liquidated!!  Nuff’ said.

CATHE CARAWAY-HOWARD: EMPLOYMENT LAW

Cathe Caraway-Howard - Law Offices of Cathe Caraway-Howard,    Employment Law.  Emails can destroy your career, so be careful what you write and/or send.  The FBI reviewed 30,000 emails – they never go away.  Other ways to ruin your life include Facebook; Sexting; Auto-upload of photos; Auto-fill text; Using your employer’s device & turning GPS on your device. How to avoid being sued by your employees:  No good firing should come as a surprise; time and payroll records; personnel records; employee handbook and policies; insurance & have a good employment attorney, i.e., Cathe Caraway Howard.

RENEE GOLDBERG: WEBSITE DESIGN

Renee Goldberg- Mind Surf Creative Web Solutions.   Website Design and production, including domain names.  Her strategy includes learning about the business and the customer’s target market.  For professional Web Site copywriting and a design suitable to your business, contact Mind Surf.  A brand new web site feature, just being launched, does not require special computer skills. It allows the web site owner to add or change photos and data on his own, including inventory, specials or new product in an easily manageable manner.

PHILIP GERSHATER: COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

Philip Gershater - Commercial Real Estate, spoke about his 18 years at LeTip and his CPA and real estate development background in South Africa. Philip a philanthropist for cancer research, represents tenants looking to lease including Executive Suites, at no cost to the client in addition to representing buyers and sellers of investment properties.  He is an expert in his field and finds it quite rewarding to see a piece of real estate he sells or leases, turn into a productive space for his client. 

GARY LOEB: ADVERTISING SPECIALTIES

Gary Loeb - Advertising Specialties, spoke about how investing in LeTip by attending and using all its networking opportunities  has paid off for him with a large return on his investment. He reminded us that since people like gifts and never refuse them, promotional material are great “offline” marketing tools for our prospects to remember our businesses. Gary with 17 years of experience in his field, recommended defining our target markets first and then look into distinctive promotional products for each defined group.

DIANE TAUB: ARBONNE SKIN CARE PRODUCTS

Diane Taub- Skin Card Products, spoke about the origins of Arbonne products from Switzerland which are manufactured locally with no animal or byproducts. She carries 450 consumable products ranging from baby use, all the way to acne treatment and anti aging items. Diane who effectively uses word of mouth for her promotions, emphasized looking into the ingredients of the skin products we currently use and consider her healthier alternatives.

GAIL GORNICK: PSYCHOTHERAPIST

Gail Gornick - Psychotherapist, spoke about the various projects she is doing lately form working with parents at a school in South Central, to training teens to staff “Teen Line”, a help desk for teenagers in need, to working with clients in critical incidents and accidents. Gail, who also conducts workshops in English and Spanish on how to better communicate with teens in middle school, encouraged us to empower children by learning how to be active listeners and upgrade our parenting styles all the time.

BIJAN KHARRAZI: CREDIT CARD PROCESSING

Bijan Kharrazi - Credit Card Processing and Online Payments. Yours truly reviewed the hidden purchasing power of Charge cards and spoke in detail about the different methods of payment acceptance by new, existing, small, medium size, online, retail, and service oriented businesses, and why many of them stay with us for long periods of time. I emphasized our personal service and suggested probing business owners you come across on the status of their payment acceptance.

DEREK JONES: AUTO, HOME AND PERSONAL INSURANCE

Derek Jones – Insurance, Auto, Home and Personal lines, showed a video of Paul Hogan and went over the ramifications of the tragedy of his car with his son. Hogan was not properly insured at the time so Derek strongly recommended getting higher liability coverage and sitting down with your insurance agent at least once a year to go over all the details relating to your needs.

ALEX TRAKHTENBERG: DRY CLEANING SERVICE

Alex Trakhtenberg – Dry Cleaning Service, stained a shirt with coffee and other food products right in front of our eyes, and used a vacuum cleaner and Windex, a household cleaning tool, to jokingly get rid of the stains! On the serious side, he gave us tips on how to get rid of and contain stains and minimize damage to the garment before taking it to him. Alex, who works with a number of high-end stores in Beverly Hills and vicinity handling their dry cleaning needs, also cleans leather, swede, lady's purses, luggage, shoes and socks, and provides  delivery service for his clients.

NONI KRIKORIAN: CABLING AND TELEPHONE SYSTEMS

Noni Krikorian - Cabling and Telephone Systems, spoke about the genesis of her and Doug’s telecom company established after working for AT&T as cable installers.  She shared the details of how her company recently grabbed a new opportunity  when a large Bank initially gave them an assignment for 152 branches to run secure telecom cables for and then grew the order to 252 locations in northern California and Nevada. Noni and Doug, who also do residential cabling, finished the job in three weeks time while making the best out of been away from their offices.

ERIC HATFIELD: LIFE, HEALTH, LONG TERM INSURANCE

Eric Hatfield - Life, Health, Disability and Long Term Insurance, spoke to the Club about some of the pitfalls of Universal Life insurance.  He pointed out the impact that falling interest rates have had on the traditional and variable versions of Universal Life policies, as well as the fact that these policies have internal cost mechanics that increase with age.  If you know someone with one of these policies, they should make sure to have their policy reviewed to make sure all is in good order. 

MICHAEL GREENFIELD: ENTERTAINMENT

Michael Greenfield -Entertainment, who also injected music throughout the meeting acting as the MC, actually made us all get up and follow steps and dance to his music. Michael runs a full service company providing entertainment for Bar Mitzvas, small and large family parties, association events, office and Christmas parties and more.

SHARYN HILLYER: RELATIONSHIP AND LIFE COACH

Sharyn Hillyer - Relationship and Life Coach, spoke about the single most important technique and that is breathing, Next, she covered intention & energy flow : where intention  goes, energy flows, and results show.   When we complain, that is where the energy goes. We create what we think today and that helps us create tomorrow and the future. She recommended using these techniques in our daily lives. Sharyn helps man and women to have more effective communications, pursue their goals, change careers, get over a job or personal loss, and even overcome fear of flying.

ROBERT PORTILLO: APPLE PRODUCT SPECIALIST

Robert Portillo – Apple Product Specialist, touched on his interest in technology since childhood and his comprehensive repair services in the world of Apple products. His new retail store in Venice offers Apple accessories in addition to onsite drop off services.

SIGMUND THOMAS: PEST CONTROL

Sigmund Thomas - Pest Control, told us more about his bird control service for homes and buildings. He showed slides showing how he removes nests in hard to reach areas and gets rid of rodents who manage to get in from the tiniest openings. Sigmund also removes bee hives, does bed bug treatments, and offers termite control services.

LIONEL TROUILLIER: PAYROLL SERVICES

Lionel Trouillier - Payroll Service, participated in a debate with a stand in competitor and made clear his strong offerings to small businesses such as: competitive pricing, choice of all taxes taken care of, and payroll service for out of state employees. These, in conjunction with Lionel’s comprehensive customer service, sets him apart in the marketplace for small businesses.

GERRY KEOGH: TILE CONTRACTOR

Gerry Keogh - Tile Contractor, fresh back from a trip to his native Ireland, showed beautiful pictures of the country and many of its tourist attractions, including the first tile job he did with his mentor renovating a historical building. Gerry does residential and commercial tile work and takes pride in his workmanship.

JORGE MIRA: ANYTHING RELATED TO GLASS

 Jorge Mira - Glass Contractor, and everything-related-to-Glass,  showed slides of some of the commercial properties he has been working on including a restaurant and club just finished in downtown LA. Jorge who has an intrinsic love of Glass, showed many different applications of glass including balconies, stair ways and large glass walls. He also does shower doors and other residential work and keeps up with new developments in his field.

JESS PERLMAN: AUTOMOBILE SALES AND LEASING

Jess Perlman - Automatique sales and leasing, spoke about his  "typical client" who is anyone driving a car coming from all facets of life, mostly in Southern California, but Automatique has auto dealer contacts in most cities in the U.S.  He spoke about having just delivered a new Prius Plug-In, which is eligible for HOV Stickers as well as $4000 in tax rebates.  The presentation concentrated on some of the lesser known traffic rules we all should know. Jess sells and leases new and used cars as well as buying trade-ins, typically for a better price than a dealer can offer.

RICHARD RAMER: ARCHITECT

Richard Ramer -Architect, and a long time LeTip member started his firm in 1989 and originally specialized in retail & residential projects.  He showed slides of a great many of his projects over the years. He then expanded to include medical offices for physicians including surgical centers and new medical office buildings. Quoting from a world famous architect: "there are no great projects without great clients", Richard would love to see those introductions from you.

BILL NOJIMA, D.C.: CHIROPRACTOR

Bill Nojima - Chiropractor, talked about balance and coordination in our bodies and showed how our spine which must be straightened, is constantly under pressure by our ligaments and muscles. But our pelvis and core muscles also become our back stabilizers and help support our spine, acting like organic guy-wires. Bill, with the help of the latest machines at his office, can take care of migraine and tension headaches, pain caused from auto accidents, sciatic pain, and spine aches.

STEVE NEUBURGER: ATM SERVICES

Steve Neuburger - ATM Services, talked about security of the non-banking ATM machines and the care he uses to place them in the proper locations. He basically partners with the owner of the business, places the machine, and splits the profits with the owner. Machines take two square feet of space, are wireless, and do not need a separate phone line to operate. Steve is always looking for new locations and likes referrals such as “cash only” businesses.

JUSTIN SLOGGATT: VIDEO PRODUCTION

Justin Sloggatt - Video Production, showed video samples of his many comedy and business promotion projects he has done over the last year. Justin offers video deposition services with searchable features for Attorneys and law professionals in addition to tape and camcorder media conversions.

TOMMY POWER: PROFESSIONAL FITNESS TRAINER

Tommy Power - Processional Fitness Trainer, spoke how an effective exercise routine is goal specific and must include a connection to our body. He expanded on the concept of proprioception: the sense of the relative position of neighboring parts of the body and strength of effort being employed in movement

Tommy teaches movements that help eliminate back pain by strengthening the abdominal wall and using the Ball. They result in core strengthening, fine tuning, and breaking old motor patterns.

STEVE RUBIN: TAX ATTORNEY

Steve Rubin -Tax Attorney, spoke about many of the 20 factors that IRS looks at to determine if a worker is considered an independent contractor or an employee. While they determine their findings on a case by case basis, some of the major factors they look at are ‘continuing relationship’, set hours of work, location of work and who ‘ controls the worker. Consulting with Steve on these issues can potentially save any employer paying IRS three years of employee tax withholdings.

NORMAN FISHMAN: FUNERAL SERVICES

Norman Fishman - Funeral Services, helps clients with different needs and wishes to plan for the inevitable. He went over the approximate cost of burial and many of the mortuary fees involved and came up with 10 reasons for pre-purchase. Norman highly recommends advanced planning in the process.

TONY SANTARELLI: IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY

Tony Santarelli - Immigration Attorney, gave us more detailed information about two new federal regulations and an Executive Order that just took place. One is about the Dream Act, which allows for younger undocumented immigrants to apply for 2 year residency in the U.S.; the other makes is easier for married applicants to apply for a change of status. Tony who frequently argues his cases in front of immigration judges, can help any immigrant anywhere in the U.S. get their status changed.

NEIL MCLEOD: DENTIST

Neil McLeod, Dentist, spoke to us about his activities for our Club, his membership in a number of dental professional associations, articles he has written for various publications, and lectures he has done. Among other services, he does full mouth reconstruction, bonding, implants, implant supported crowns, and even straightens teeth. Neil reminded us again: "don't rush to brush."

MISHELE VIERA: PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZER

Mishele Viera , Professional organizer, showed us some of the ways she can help people keep organized in their lives by finding and getting paperwork together for their financial needs. She also contributes to addiction treatments by helping people that often develop compulsive habits to replace their addiction. Mishele recommended the Container Store as a great place to find ways to organize our stuff. She also explained that hoarding can be interpreted as an extreme form of perfectionism driven by fear of not being able to get organized perfectly and may ultimately ends up in the person giving up.

ROBERT MEDICI: HANDYMAN

Robert Medici, The best-dressed Handyman in Los Angeles spoke about how his design background makes him a great power partner with our Interior Designer Cynthia Jervey. Among other talents, Robert can build music stands, home porches, new walls to insulate from noise generated by a flat screen T.V. or any other noisemaker. He also works well with people such as plumbers and electricians who tend to make holes in walls when doing their projects, “covers them up” and makes them look like new.

JOHN MOSER: PANOMATICS 360 DEGREE VIRTUAL TOURS

John Moser, Panomatics 360 degree virtual tours, spoke about how the company was founded by photographers from Germany and its becoming a worldwide phenomenon. Virtual tours offer an excellent marketing tool for getting people engaged with your business website, letting the viewer see your space and interact by transitioning from one space to the next. It is great tool for showing real estate in addition to city tours and outdoor spaces. Both video and slideshows can be imbedded and enhance your marketing presentations.

DAVID BLATTEL: COMMERCIAL PHOTOGRAPHER

David Blattel - Commercial Photographer, showed slides of the many life styles he has shot including seniors and environmental shoots. He works with medical clients and Ad agencies  and does product placements as well. He pulls permits for many of his shots, casts models, and likes corporate referrals such as law firms and banks. David who has been working in his field since 1978, including 9 consecutive years of shooting for Harley Davidson Calendars, has a new web site with new branding and has developed a new technique on background for portraits.

TIM GUILLE: MUSIC TEACHER

Tim Guille - Music Teacher, introduced his manager Dave Lewis who taught us several quick and interesting games with full audience participation, focusing on enhancing the dynamics of our non-verbal musical communications. Tim, in the meantime taught Kendric Rollins a guitar lesson for a total of 4 minutes, and then the trio played us a nice taste of Sweet Home Alabama. Tim runs All Play Music which provides in-home instructions for guitar, piano, drums ,bass, and voice in the LA area.

BOB BORDEN: OFFICE SUPPLIES

Bob Borden- office supplies dealer, who is celebrating his 50 years in business this year, gave a long and drawn up speech, going over some of vintage office products he used to sell way back in the 60's and 70's and even passed some samples around. Bob, who is very easy to tip, arranges for delivery of supplies you order thus eliminating any need to go to a large chain store.

CLEVELAND MORRIS: DRAIN CLEANING

Cleveland Morris  - Drain Cleaning, spoke about some of the challenges of getting equipment to his job sites and the degree of care he uses performing his tasks. Morris, who loves to sing during his presentations despite the mixed reactions, also does inspections for his clients and makes recommendations on how to proceed. He is bonded and licensed and a BBB member and does both residential and commercial sites.

BARAK GRANOT: SEARCH ENGINE OPTIMIZATION

Barak Granot - Search Engine Optimization, spoke about the rapid explosion in wireless devices around us and how he can help create easy to access and optimize our mobile web sites for searches by potential prospects. He added that wallet smart phones have quickly become absolute necessities in daily life and recommended creating mobile app(lications) which help  increase client retention and also take advantage of new GPS features embedded in them.

AUBREY WAITE: POOL SERVICE

Aubrey Waite- Pool Service, spoke about the history and how he started in the business and the background and skills of his current experienced staff.  Aubrey who genuinely loves getting up in the mornings and deal with pools, covers LA area and is the most knowledgeable  person to work with on choosing the most effective process to keep your pool clean and healthy.

KARL BROOK: REMODELING CONTRACTOR

Karl Brook -Remodeling Contractor, and a 19 year veteran of LeTip, with his wife Beverly presented a slideshow of their top quality construction projects in various homes. Many slides contained details with before pictures of cramped kitchen spaces to after images of the redone and beautiful open spaces that enlarged the kitchens considerably. His detailed work on ceilings, rounded walls, oval windows, wood floors, glass tiles on walls, infinity tubs, and awing on windows were shown. Karl’s construction projects  allow people to “live in works of art”.

ERIC AGAKI: PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR

Eric Agaki - Private investigator, for all occasions and is willing to take on any case. He is capable of helping in cases of fraud, cheating spouse, robbery and murder and is very good at serving subpoenas that are particularly difficult. Eric showed us a gentler, softer side of his life in his presentation with a homemade video of his honeymoon trip with his new wife, Charlie, to the Dominican Republic. In this video we saw Eric six pack abs, his lovely wife and the beautiful countryside of their honeymoon spot.

CYNTHIA JERVEY: INTERIOR DESIGNER

Cynthia Jervey - Interior Design, showed us slides of a new construction site at Bel Air where she was responsible for many areas of design as with many of her other projects including furniture choices, moldings, built ins, reupholstering of existing furniture, wall paper, shelving, adding personality to hallways by hanging photography in an artistic manner, and paint colors. She also showed us several examples of before and after of her remodels that held us in awe of her talents as a designer. Cynthia  was part of Graystone Mansion’s showcase house again this year where she decorated “Mrs. Doheny’s Office”. She  can accomplish a new design project as well as taking on redesigning and  “face lifting” of residential and commercial spaces.

MICHAEL TAN: HOME THEATRE SALES AND INSTALLATIONS

Michael Tan - Home Theatre sale and installations, also installs his systems in many commercial sites such as bars and restaurants. He not only does whole house audio and video retrofit but can create smart homes with fully automated features.  Mike who has a smart home showroom has recently created a Beetle’s fan band as well with some performances coming up.

LISA PASCHALL: MASSAGE THERAPIST

Lisa Paschall - Massage Therapist, first asked us: How do we want to live? Then proceeded to talk about the convincing benefits of a regular massage schedule and how it helps  maintain and promote our health.  Lisa who also caters to many older clients, sees that regular massage dramatically help reduce lower back and sciatic pain in them.  Most importantly massage according to her can help reduce stress, reverse the fast-forward aging process, and help release tight shoulders and necks.

MICHAEL SIMMONS: BUSINESS INSURANCE

Michael Simmons - Business Insurance, showcased a situation with a company that has developed a new product and is looking for coverage. Michael who has been selling commercial property, liability, and workman’s compensation insurance for many years, markets the specific needs of his prospects with a number of different insurance companies and after comparing the data, recommends the best company to them.

SAM ROSENBERG: RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

Sam Rosenberg - Retirement Community, spoke about the services he offers at his family owned center in Santa Monica from its hotel style living, chef prepared meals, housekeeping services to all the various activities provided for his clients. Sam’s many slides of the famous and aging Hollywood actresses ,reminded us of how convenient is his community for us to refer to the many retired people around us.  

DONNA WOLF: TRAVEL AGENT

Donna Wolf - Travel Agent, shared her adventures in the Caribbean and gave lots of tips for those thinking of visiting there. Donna, who personally visits many of the hotels and destinations that she books for her clients, also recommends specific activities and places to visit and eat. She constantly gathers feedback from her clients’ experiences and incorporates them in her worldwide travel recommendations.

DENNIS SMITH : PLUMBER

Dennis Smith - Plumber, spoke about a recent project that made him remove tons of paper insulations from the walls of a house in order to fix the plumbing problem, and warned us on how much of a fire hazard they are in many older homes. Dennis does re-piping for residential and commercial properties and gets involved in several remodeling projects. He is reachable by pager and is quick and through in his visits.

KENDRIC ROLLINS: CRIMINAL LAW ATTORNEY

Kendrick Rollins - Criminal Law Attorney, who handles many traffic citations for his clients gave us tips on how to go about fighting them. He recommended not to drink and drive, encouraged us to exercise our right to remain silent if interrogated, and warned that cameras are still functional at traffic intersections outside of the “City of Los Angeles”.  Contact Kendrick to learn about more ways to get rid of tickets and infractions you and your referrals may commit.

GRANT NORRIS: MORTGAGE BROKER

Grant Norris - Mortgage Broker, is the intermediary between the mortgage applicant and many lenders such as major banks and private lenders.  He recommends taking advantage of the current historical low rates and likes FHA loans with more lenient underwriting guidelines. Grant who is experienced and distinguished in his field, also does consultations and considers current renters as good referrals for his business. 

KATE ALDIN: FAMILY LAW ATTORNEY

Kate Aldin - Family Law Attorney, spoke about how she handles tough issues such as custody and litigations and situations when a parent moves away to another city. She prepares for hearings representing her clients on matters such as sole physical custody for the kid(s) and petitions for what ultimately is the best interest of her client and his/her children.

SHARYN HILLYER: RELATIONSHIP AND LIFE COACH

Sharyn Hillyer - Relationship and Life Coach, talked about our “inner critic”, and called it a dangerous malady that creates limiting and repressing ideas, and as we grow up, we continue to carry it and it ultimately can become our self image! Sharyn’s sessions help overcome this insecurity creating syndrome by recognizing it, refusing it and replacing it. Her upcoming workshop focusing on stress reduction is also coming up.

MARTIN HORWITZ: BUSINESS ATTORNEY

Martin Horwitz – Business Attorney, spoke of the importance of referring business to members of the Club and his 18 years at LeTip. He shared details of a couple of his recent cases and took us through some of the techniques he uses to maneuver to the best outcome.  Martin can be hired to litigate all business matters and might consider mediation if it is in the best interest of his client.

DAN VILLAMIL: WINDOW TINTING

Dan Villamil - Window Tinting, introduced us to a high performance almost clear Window Film that increases insulation performance by 92%, and helps keep heat inside in the winter and out in the summer. Window Films come with long warranty periods as well. Dan offers both residential and commercial installations and is fully knowledgeable on the benefits and the differences between all the products his industry offers.

CAL KELLY: WOODWORKING

Cal Kelly - Woodworking, showed us slides of his many creations around town. He makes beautiful wood curb fences, staircases, benches, home office items such as desks and chairs and does outdoor seating projects. Cal works closely with general contractors, does art decorations, and also makes audio and video home theatre consoles.

TIRAN SHEMESH: HOME DECOR

Tiran Shemesh - Home Décor and the owner of a large warehouse in Glendale, showed slides of his lines of living room and bedroom furniture. He is a one stop shop for home and office needs, lets his clients choose their fabric offsite, offers framing services in addition to hundreds of paintings, chandeliers, area , machine, and authentic Persian rugs, which he identified as a good investment. Many furniture items researched online or found in his numerous catalogues, can also be ordered through Tiran for a discounted price.

JEFFERY MARKS: VETERINARIAN

Jeffery Marks - Veterinarian, spoke in detail about three reasons for pet itching which include parasites, allergies and environmental factors.  His two family owned clinics perform allergy testing and offer desensitization treatments.  He recommended that living in Los Angeles, pet flee treatments should be year around and mentioned some of the products he offers that alleviate this most important issue for pet owners.

BRYAN ANGSTMAN: CARPET CLEANING

Bryan Angstman - Carpet Cleaning, passed around samples of the actual dirt which he had found in a client's house. He reminded us that we spend over 60% of our time indoors and indoor air is three times more polluted than outdoor air. Mold also can be a large contributor to this statistic. Bryan suggested staying away from dust mite pollution which helps in reduced allergies from the dust, and mentioned “sick building syndrome”.

ALVARD BARSIGHIAN: AUTO BODY REPAIR

Alvard Barsighian - Auto Body Shop, spoke about Harry’s Auto Collision Center’s lifetime repair guarantee service, free loaners and onsite rent-a-car facility. Her full service collision center is a one stop restoration center, offering immediate appraisals on site in addition to vehicle protection service. Harry’s also works with all major insurance companies who know him personally and take care of all the required paperwork.

BOB MIRMAN: AUTO MECHANIC

Bob Mirman - Auto Mechanic, spoke about the importance of consistency, fairness and following through with the referrals that we give each other. He emphasized that reputation is the most important element in getting repeat business. Bob’s family business offers warehouse pricing on many items including tires, beats any competitor’s offer, and has advanced its reputation into success over the years by encouraging, rewarding, and turning his customers into salespeople who bring in other referrals to his Shop.

BRIAN WHITNEY: FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Brian Whitney - Financial Advisor, talked about the importance of investing monies from personal savings, proceeds of a real estate sale, cash from a legal settlement, or any other source, wisely with the help his professional team. The current European debt crisis was discussed and he brought to our attention how it could all easily spread to our shores as well. Brian’s video on the growing personal debt and the “denials” that go with it, will be posted on his Tipwork’s profile site.

JOHN HUTSLER: COMPUTER HARDWARE AND NETWORKING

John Hutsler - Computer Hardware and Networking, spoke about his Microsoft’s Certified Partner advantage that gives him access to top levels of MS support in case a problem arises.  John’s team sell, install and service systems such as servers, networking gear, and wireless internet backups.  He helps in system upgrades for medical offices to become Hipaa compliant and acts as the president of a non profit called Veteran’s Holiday Celebration Inc.

BARBARA FRIEDMAN: BOOKKEEPING SERVICES

Barbara Friedman - Bookkeeping Services, spoke about how she establishes priorities for her clients and the goals they want to achieve. She accomplishes this by offering record keeping and invoicing, and establishes budgets for them based on what is important to them.  Barbara and her staff provide full coverage at their office, use Quick Books to do invoicing, save their clients on late and NSF fees, and help substantially in freeing up clients’ time.

PETER TAUB: APPLIANCE REPAIR

Peter Taub - Appliance Repair, showed slides of his travels and spoke about his services which include repairing all types of appliances, regardless of the brand. He is available with short notice and even provides free advice when you are about to purchase new appliances.

BARRY MOSER: CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT

Barry Moser - Certified Public Accountant, spoke in detail about the various due dates during each month of the year and the importance of meeting these deadlines.  The due dates include payroll taxes, sales taxes, business licenses, 1099’s, W-2 and income taxes for both personal and business taxes. Barry who has around 30 items on his calendar every month, reminds his clients of all that is pertinent to them.  He also advises his clients with their business categories for their business license in order to get the most tax beneficial results.

MICHELLE LAMARCHE: ACUPUNCTURIST

Michelle Lamarche - Acupuncturist, encouraged those of us who are health conscious to ask questions without shame and spoke about some her recent clients and their significant improvements after her treatments. She performs an initial through test of her clients, gets a vision for them, introduces them to herbal remedies, prescribes a new diet, and helps them change their habits and get results for a new health profile.

VATCHE AZIRIAN: AWNINGS AND CANOPIES

Vatche Azirian - Awnings & Canopies, showed many slides of his company’s custom made, L.A. manufactured cordless awnings which are installed in the interior and exterior of residential and commercial properties. He offers 10 year warranties on his products which blend in with the rest of your home or office. Vatche’s residential patio awnings are lifestyle products, creating living spaces and shade when you need it. Restaurant for example are good referrals for his commercial awning offerings.

BRUCE LORMAN: REAL ESTATE ATTORNEY

Bruce Lorman - Real Estate Attorney, spoke in detail about real estate contracts and how disputes get resolved when (in the fine print) one agrees to arbitration, mediation or litigation. He reminded us that an arbitrator does not have to follow the law, both sides of the dispute pay his/her fees, and their ruling is binding. Bruce, a horse enthusiast and investor, strongly recommends talking to an attorney before signing any real estate related contracts.

NISSIM MAIMON: HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING

Nissim Maimon -Heating & Air Conditioning, spoke extensively about how properly designed and installed duct systems techniques can enhance indoor air quality and improve efficiency and capacity. Using an approved contractor will make your project eligible for energy Upgrade California rebate and Utility company’s various incentives.  Anyone interested in living in a comfortable indoor environment is a good Tip for Nissim.

CATHE CARAWAY HOWARD: EMPLOYMENT ATTORNEY

Cathe Caraway Howard - Employment Attorney, Cathe is the group’s employment lawyer. She represents both management and employees in employment disputes.  Good tips for Cathe are commissioned employees who were not paid their commissions, restaurant workers, and people who are paid salary when they should be paid overtime. Cathe showed the video of her father, Bob Caraway’s 80th birthday party and parade, produced by our Videographer, Justin Sloggatt of Six14Productions, with photography by our Event Photographer, Julie Hopkins. 

ARLENE KRANTZ: BUSINESS COACH

Arlene Krantz - Business Coach, spoke about “investing” in our businesses in addition to just working. She recommended getting out and promoting our expertise, creating video clips about our work and posting them on the Net, and reading about and actually practicing successful and proven methods. Arlene is also offering LeTip specials for her upcoming coaching session.

BARACK GANOT: SEARCH ENGINE OPTIMIZATION

Barack Ganot - Search Engine Optimization, declared that “Get Found, Get called, and Get Paid” is what our businesses should be all about. With most searches for businesses done via Google now,  he can help us “Get Found” with his SEO expertise and placement on the first page of Google Places. Google+, with a social media touch, will slowly and automatically replace Google Places and allows reviews, postings and such for your business.

PJ BERGIS: LANDSCAPE DESIGNER

PJ Bergis - Landscape Designer, showed us images of many of his beautiful waterscapes for commercial, thru high-end residential, and also smaller projects. “Every project counts” is PJ’s motto. He creates spaces for people to make long lasting memories. These “heart spaces” are used for strolling, meditating, and having great times with one’s family. He described his water creations as Zen like features including patterns such as high pressure water moving into quiet still water.

JEFFREY FRITZ: RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

Jeffrey Fritz - Residential Real Estate, spoke about his team’s combined sixteen years of experience in the field and access to many residential and income listings via Coldwell Banker.  Jeffrey and Laura shared Dunbar’s Rule with us which says 150, is the maximum number of people that one person can have meaningful relationships with. They explained how by virtue of LeTip, we can extend this reach for our businesses.

JOSE DIAZ: ROOFING CONTRACTOR

Jose Diaz - showed a promotional video of his services with testimonials from his happy clients. He does residential and commercial roofs, offers warranty, in house financing, and free estimates, and is offering special pricing for LeTip members. Jose also demonstrated for us one of the safety tools he uses for his employees while completing the jobs.

FRANK TAPANES: WINDOW COVERINGS

Frank Tapanes - Window Coverings, showed slides of his clients’ installed base of cordless window coverings from Hotels & commercial use to homeowners with varied budgets. His state of the art installations eliminate allergies and asthma, block heat, offer full privacy, are kid safe, and can be set on timers to help security during family vacations. Frank, an avid snowboarder, also offers solar powered shade options to his clients.

JESUS HERNANDEZ: AUTO DETAILING

Jesus Hernandez - Auto Detail, showed slides of his many clients’ cars which he washes, polishes and waxes on a regular basis. He uses premium products including leather seat protection, cleans the mats, and does interior detail work as well.  Jesus also details classic cars, washes and waxes boats, and works with associations, school PTAs, and more.

RENE GOLDBERG: WEBSITE DESIGNER

Rene Goldberg - Website Designer, described how effective websites all have in common: great design, ease of navigation and effective words. She recommends using visual icons as they create even more impact and attract attention. Renee, passionate about her expertise, gets her clients involved in a plan of action to get results and creates websites for them that appeal at an emotional level to their prospects. She also offers hosting services for her clients.

RON BENVENISTE: PAINTING CONTRACTOR

Ron Benveniste - Painting contractor, showed slides of some of the projects he has recently done with his full team of painters. They help get rid of mold, water stains, and old finishes by doing quality paint jobs. Ron, who also works on craftsman style homes, is insured and is offering LeTip specials at this time.

KAREN SANDLER: FAMILY PHYSICIAN

Karen Sandler - Physician, spoke about hypertension a mostly no-symptom disease which is usually found during annual physical exams and could arise from genetic causes, drug use, kidney disease, smoking, or high saturated diets. A primary care Doctor, concentrating on prevention, she also spoke about diabetes and its causes. She recommends keeping a balanced diet, avoiding hidden sugars in food, exercise, and consuming high fiber foods. Karen’s office in Beverly Hills accepts most insurances.

GAIL GORNICK: PSYCHOTHERAPIST

Gail Gornick - Psychotherapist, spoke about her extensive therapy experience with teenagers (her involvement at Teen Line) helping them among other things, deal with Middle School. She also works with parents, helping them during divorce and their desire to create a framework for a healthy relationship for the future. Gail’s sessions are all confidential. She also works with individuals and couples dealing with issues such as infidelity.

ALISSA LIPPMAN: REGISTERED DIETITIAN

Alissa Lippman  - Registered dietitian, suggested that we both keep an active role in our health and stay even healthier by keeping active. A nutrition expert, she does consulting and advises her clients in many areas of her specialties, including Diabetes and preventative health. Alissa sees her clients at her offices in Santa Monica and Beverly Hills.

DEREK JONES: INSURANCE (AUTO, HOME, PERSONAL LINES)

Derek Jones - Insurance, auto, home + personal lines, spoke about his entry in the insurance industry almost 15 years ago and his first accident which introduced him to the true value that his services offer.  Derek showed us his family’s picture including the his newly born daughter, and  emphasized that insurance is for protection of families and trust and relationship is most important for finding and working with an agent.

LEO SHOCHAT: LOCKSMITH

Leo Shochat - Locksmith, showed a video describing “lock bumping”, the slick way intruders can literally tap open locked doors and in 80% of break-ins, get in from the front door. In his quest to make our lives safer, Leo offers the best locks in the marketplace, is available around the clock for help and consultations, and recommends increasing lighting, adopting pets, and becoming more alert.   

CATHY CAHILL: PHYSICAL THERAPIST

Cathy Cahill – Physical Therapist, demonstrated how important is our posture and how a bad posture can lead to chronic shoulder and back problems. Cathy’s gyrotonic system in Brentwood with the help of a class with 90 exercises on a stool, can move your spine forward and back and by simulating yoga like motions, it opens up all the Chakras in addition to all the joints in the body and gives you a feeling of lightness and well being. Her exercises not only can prevent certain surgeries but also help post-surgery patients.

NEIL MCLEOD: DENTIST

Neil McLeod - Dentist, spoke about looking to the future and making our Club more successful. He emphasized that bringing guests every week to the meetings, not only increases our prospects but enlivens our meetings and serves as the most important lifeline of our growth. Badge status reflects our personal participation in the Club which should be augmented by being involved in community events. Neil challenged us to aim higher for a 25% increase in membership this year and become the Chapter of the year for LeTip International. As Neil proclaimed: “Are you game"? Are you ready to make a difference? Are you being the success you want to be? Be here Now!

PHILIP GERSHATER: REAL ESTATE (COMMERCIAL)

Philip Gershater - Commercial Real Estate, spoke about his background of accounting and RE development and recommended looking into apartment buildings in this market. Philip, explained the different types of leasing offered in the marketplace and reminded us that among other services he does  lease renewal negotiations at no cost to the tenant, helps set up exchanges for sales, researches and locates suitable locations based on your needs and requirements.

RICK BAUM: ATTORNEY BANKRUPTCY

Rick Baum - Bankruptcy Attorney, took us for a ride with his fairy tale characters, showing how in many life situations, depending on others for money, whom are not good with money, could be the recipe for going broke. Rick, spoke about bankruptcy as an opportunity to start over again as some famous characters have done, and explained the many different “chapters” of BK one may take advantage of.

ROBIN LEONARD: COURT REPORTER

Robin Leonard - Court Reporter, took us along to Tahiti, her recent family vacation spot, where she swam with the sharks and spent 11 days in a beautiful paradise. In her real life, Robin is a seasoned and mobile Court Reporter, taking down testimonies and doing all day depositions. Good referrals for her are attorneys, attorney firms, or general managers at the firms.

EVE MAZZARA: GRAPHIC DESIGN

Eve Mazzara - Graphic Design, spoke about how visual communication is the essence of her services for businesses and explained they way she takes advantage of ePublishing using new mediums, such as iPads and smart phones which have adopted to smaller devices with interactive audio and video, autoflow text, and changeable fonts capabilities to broadcast your messages. In addition, print publishing is in full force as Eve continues to also create logos, business cards, brochures, and more for all businesses including non profits.

GARY LOEB: ADVERTISING SPECIALTIES

Gary Loeb - Advertising Specialties, asked how many people have ever received and used promotional material and with all hands up in the room, he spoke about his business experience, personal service, respect for your budget, and his specific recommendations for what items that are best for your type of business, whether it is for participating in shows, helping open new doors for you and grow your business.

JACK BERLIN: PRINTING

Jack Berlin - Printing, spoke about the changes in his industry over the years and talked about origins of color printing which has become very affordable now. He recommended putting QR codes on the back of business cards and other promotional material. Jack a perpetual Trojan, has some grandiose plans for himself for the end of the year.

CLAUDIA PRECIADO: CARE GIVING

Claudia Preciado - Care Giving, spoke about her family owned business and her skills as a care giver: being genuinely interested in her clients, possessing lots of patience, and her 24 hour availability. In addition to providing experienced care givers Claudia provides: hourly and 24 hour live-in help, certified nurses, escorting and transportation services and temporary help for surgery recuperation.

ERIC HATFIELD: LIFE, HEALTH AND DISABILITY INSURANCE

Eric Hatfield – Life, Health and Disability Insurance and Jane Hall – Trust Attorney had a joint presentation on topics covering life, death, and relatives you leave behind. They talked about planning as a process not an event and how they help provide the most comprehensive planning for their clients. Other topics included disability insurance being the core of your financial plan ensuring consistent income; long term care insurance benefits potentially 6 times more than its total policy cost; setting up a Trust prevents probate and avoids estate taxes; and recommended reviewing your insurance policies and continuing to talk to your Trust attorney.

JANE HALL: TRUST ATTORNEY

Jane Hall – Trust Attorney and Eric Hatfield – Life, Health and Disability Insurance had a joint presentation on topics covering life, death, and relatives you leave behind. They talked about planning as a process not an event and how they help provide the most comprehensive planning for their clients. Other topics included disability insurance being the core of your financial plan ensuring consistent income; long term care insurance benefits potentially 6 times more than its total policy cost; setting up a Trust prevents probate and avoids estate taxes; and recommended reviewing your insurance policies and continuing to talk to your Trust attorney.

JOHN MOSER: 3D VIRTUAL TOURS

John Moser, 3D Virtual Tours - Showed us how this new, user friendly marketing concept brings the location, product or service to your prospect and makes a traveling museum out of or your business. Among other features, you can include videos, create tabs with information, create pdf files about your products and services incorporating this virtual interactive tour and attach it to an email. John’s service helps client retention efforts and can increase your business’s visibility in the search engine world.

STEVE RUBIN: TAX ATTORNEY

Steve Rubin – Tax Attorney, has been offering comprehensive defense against IRS audits and inquiries since 2003. He talked about how continuing to pay new taxes, is a must, in order not to unravel previous IRS settlements. Meanwhile, IRS’s “attitude” in dealing with taxpayers is not getting any nicer. Steve also spoke about the concept of the “responsible person” i.e. if an employer fails to pay payroll taxes, IRS will look for one or more persons who it feels is responsible to pay the unpaid taxes and will hold them personally liable for 100% of the taxes owed. You may contact Steve for more details.

NONI KRIKORIAN: COMMUNICATION CABLING AND TELEPHONE SYSTEMS

Noni Krikorian - Communication Cabling & Telephone Systems, talked about her beginnings at the Phone company climbing telephone poles and demonstrated it with the ropes around her waist. She described the ever changing technology of phone systems, emergence of Voice over IP where computer and phone traffic are carried together, and why landlines are still needed for emergency calls. DEK Communications installs telephone systems and cabling for phones and computers all over California.

SIGMUND THOMAS: PEST CONTROL

Sigmund Thomas, Pest Control - Presented slides of insects, their behaviors and habitats and explained how one of type treatment does not fit all. Beetle’s, is a full service termite and pest control company and offers free consultations and inspections for residential and commercial properties. Sigmund proved his motto that reads: “WE KNOW BUGS!”

ROBERT DAVIES: FURNITURE RESTORATION

Robert Davies - Furniture Restoration, showed slides of one of his recent restorations at his studio and explained how he learned his skills from his Father’s European restoration projects. As part of his services, Robert, can repair holes in furniture, restore original colors and gold leaves, in addition to restoring fired objects.

BIJAN KHARRAZI: FINANCIAL: CREDIT CARD PROCESSING

Bijan Kharrazi - Alternative & Online Payment Provider, presented the group with some fun facts about the origin of credit cards, including: tips for businesses on preventing Chargebacks, advantages of accepting Debit versus Credit cards at the point of sale, internet powered point of sale units using only an Ipad, and showed how, many service based businesses that extend terms can cut down on their receivables.

MICHAEL GREENFIELD: ENTERTAINMENT COORDINATOR

Michael Greenfield - Entertainment, made a full presentation on his beginnings as a guitar player in  High School followed by doing musical theatre and DJ for parties.  He has also been involved in many duos, trios, & quartet jazz and guitar ensembles over the years. Michael can provide many different kinds of Entertainment for personal and business occasions including big bands, specialty bands like Polka, face painters, caricature artists, circus, and of course DJ.

LIONEL TROUILLIER: PAYROLL SERVICES

Lionel Trouillier, Payroll Services – Presented a number of methods to reduce your payroll business taxes. Some included incorporating your business, setting up benefit plans, hiring family members, students, non resident aliens, or Veterans, and even turning your business into a philanthropic entity. Lionel sets up and maintains payroll for many different businesses in southern California.

JESS PERLMAN: AUTO SALES AND LEASING

Jess Perlman - Auto Sales & Leasing, spoke about his services which include sales and leasing of used and new cars. He is a licensed broker who negotiates on your behalf with the dealers, goes over the numbers with you & ultimately delivers the car to your doorstep. He spoke about the advantages of leasing over financing depending on the customer’s specific needs. Jess, who handles all types of brands & models, also reminded us about the current popularity of many of the all electric & hybrid vehicles.

JORGE MIRA: GLASS CONTRACTOR

Jorge Mira - Glass Contractor, extensively demonstrated the durability of many types of the glass he uses for various projects such as laminated, tempered and regular. He and his “glass shatterer” volunteers, showered the room with pieces of broken glass during their zealous presentation. “Everything related to Glass”, is now etched permanently in the minds of all who were present.

KATHERINE BLAKE: COLLECTIONS AND PROFIT RECOVERY

Katherine Blake - Collections & Profit Recovery, talked about how written demands can speed up collections and how using a product called “accelerator” early in the process, helps mom & pop and larger clients collect their debts by making statements look like they are coming from the business that is trying to collect. She makes personal visits to her clients and prospects, represents a 40 year old company which offers performance guarantee, is HIPPA compliant, and does extensive collections in the field of healthcare.

JOHN MOSER: 3D VIRTUAL TOURS

John Moser also made a presentation on his new category of 3D Virtual Tours.

BARAK GANOT: INTERNET SEARCH ENGINE OPTIMIZATION

Barak Ganot - Internet Search Engine Optimization, made a presentation on all his services and reminded us that currently a large number of searches for local businesses are done via mobile devices and strongly recommended creating mobile web sites for our business. He added that almost 60% of  local searches result in actual purchases. Barak is currently running a special on this service.

DAVID BLATTEL: COMMERCIAL PHOTOGRAPHER

David Blattel - Commercial Photographer, showed us slides of the ins and outs of his latest three day photo shoot for St. Jude’s Medical Center & the latest lighting and highlighting techniques he uses.

Among other services, David does executive portraits, environmental shots, product photography and has invented a device that facilitates shooting from a camera to a computer.

GERRY KEOGH: TILE CONTRACTOR

Gerry Keogh - Tile Contractor, talked about his original Irish connections and employers back home. He showed us slides of his many installations around town. Gerry, who uses slates and a variety of outdoor tiles in his projects, also does curved walls, indoor floors, and sound proofing for condominium buildings.

DAVID DUBIN, M.D., NEURO-FEEDBACK

David Dubin, M.D.   spoke to us again about neuro-feedback which is being used in a number of major hospitals.  David has been trying to introduce this to the NFL with Dick Butkus.   Various professional athletes, business people and others use neuro-feedback to optimize memory and general brain function.  As the scarecrow said, “if I only had a brain.”

David recently successfully treated a woman with bad post-partum depression who was suicidal.  Using Eric Agaki as a guinea pig, he measured Eric’s brain waves, allowing the brain to get out of “stuck” patterns, thereby getting the person back to a better state.   Addiction problems are another issue that can be corrected.

STEVE NEUBERGER, ATM MACHINES

Steve Neuberger moved from the Motor City to LA just 37 years ago.  Welcome to LA Steve.

The number one reason that you want a ATM machine at your location is that they are a convenience to your customers.  They do not cost the merchant anything and the merchant does not have any obligation.  In addition, they bring in rental revenue to the store, typically at a higher square footage rate than anything else in the store.  Good locations include:  Motels/Hotels, Apartment Complexes, Retail Stores, Franchises, privately-owned coffee shops and high-rise office buildings.

ANTHONY SANTARELLI, IMMIGRATION LAW

Tony Santarelli, Esq. noticed that there are many new members in our group as he has been out for several weeks.  Many members called him during his absence and encouraged him to “do the right thing..”  He did.

Immigration Law:  ICE has been coming to people’s doors early in the morning and taking people away in handcuffs.  Sometimes a Fed employee will be flexible if the potential immigrant has a good attorney, hence the reason for Tony’s success. The Santareli firm has clients from about 65 countries world-wide.  He has a 94% success rate and offers an inexpensive 1 hour consultation (and free for anybody who does not have any money).

DAVID DUBIN, LOW ENERGY NEUROFEEDBACK

David Dubin - A LENS ( Low Energy Neurofeedback System) practitioner with offices in Santa Monica and Beverly Hills, offers a drug-free brain “reset” treatment for anxiety, depression, insomnia and even minor brain damage. A former Emergency Medicine Doctor, Dr. David uses a simple device connected to a laptop to unblock brain’s bungled vibrations and treats adults, adolescents, and children with minimal side effects.

RICHARD RAMER , ARCHITECT

Richard Ramer - Architect, a LeTiper for many years, showed us slides of some of his residential and commercial projects nationwide with major emphasis on medical buildings and offices, and small hospitals. Two third of his clients are repeat clients and have all taken advantage of his one to one service during their projects.

MAYA ILLOUZ, BANKER

Maya Illouz - Banker, currently manages Union Bank’s Studio City office. Union Bank is the third largest commercial bank in California with 450 branches and Maya’s twelve person staff, not only operate a boutique style banking but make personal visits to their clients and prospects’ locations. She offers and provides advice on all types of financing options for business growth, college education, and more.

PAYMAN VAHEDIFAR, MEDICAL WEIGHT LOSS

Payman Vahedifar - Medical Weight Loss, showed us slides and scales of the many calorie-rich food we all happily eat, their precise calorie ratios, and reminded us of the 33% current obesity rate in the country and all the side effects that come with it. Dr. Payman offers 12 week long physician assisted weight loss programs and accepts all insurances for his practice.

BILL NOJIMA, CHIROPRACTOR

Bill Nojima, -Chiropractor, treats neck and low back pain, headaches, numbness, tingling, ,and  had his slide show about disc problems and sprained backs. He literally showed us how herniated discs end up oozing their inside jelly by slamming his wand on his many homemade jelly donuts he put on each table. Bill’s full service office in Culver City is equipped with spinal decompression equipment that ultimately helps prevent spinal surgeries.

AUBREY WAITE, POOL SERVICES

Aubrey Waite - Pools Service, showed slides of various sanitation methods used for pools including the older Chlorine Tablets.  He recommended keeping your pool clean at all times and using the most effective method to prevent mechanical portions from replacement and malfunctioning. Liquid chlorine  is the fastest and most common process used at this time but it  does get weaker over time. Others are: Salt Systems which can create corrosion and disrupt the heater and Oxonator, a more sensitive system which is becoming more cost effective.

TIM GUILLE, MUSIC TEACHER

Tim Guille – Music Teacher, talked about Music education and his successful methods empowering his students. He had Sam, a young student who signed up with some initial challenges, sang and perform a beautiful song for us. Sam who started with piano, base guitar and voice lessons, is now a performer. Tim’s company in business for 7 years, has 17 staff members who ended up teaching 5000 lessons in students’ homes last year.

SIGMUND THOMAS, PEST CONTROL

Sigmund Thomas, Pest Control and our Tipmaster, spoke about how tips are not a form of communication but a way for us to make money. He asked us all to be more prudent in our tipping practices and not to substitute future potential promises as tips to each other.

JEFFREY FRITZ, RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

Jeffrey Fritz, Residential Real Estate Broker, and chair of programs committee , spoke about how www.timpworks.net can be used to confirm our speaker, show boat, and greeter slots and emphasized the importance of  sticking to our commitments for each meeting on the path to our presentations.

JULIE HOPKINS, EVENT PHOTOGRAPHER

Julie Hopkins , Event Photographer, showed us beautiful slides of her 14 year career as a ballet dancer and many of her Camera Creations portraits, and gave us more details of her professional portrait and family photo sessions. Julie, who works out of her new studios on San Vicente Blvd, is now offering the Club three distinctive discount packages that include all her current services.

SAM ROSENBERG, RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

Sam Rosenberg, who told us interesting stories about human bonding s and interactions between some of his clients at his fabulous retirement community in Santa Monica. Sam’ s family owned business, offers a festive and relaxed environment for his retirees in a quiet setting.

ERIC AGAKI: PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR

Eric Agaki ,Private Investigator, spoke about his sophisticated background check services that can be used when hiring  employees . He keeps them as updated as possible with the help of the latest info from the courts and Police Departments. He uses a grading system to show the employer what to do next. Eric also performs various personal and insurance fraud investigations, and administers lie detector tests.

KATE ALDIN: FAMILY LAW ATTORNEY

Kate Aldin, Family Law Attorney spoke about her family and her upbringings in Riverside. She presented some fun facts about the services she provides from her Century City office which include: Divorce, spousal support, custody, visitation, prenuptial & postnuptial agreements, domestic partnerships & palimony.

KARL BROOK: GENERAL CONTRACTOR

Karl Brook, General Contractor, presented a slide presentation of many of his finished and ongoing projects. He took us through his world of remodeling showing high-quality kitchens, bathrooms, great rooms, backyard dining areas, and a variety of what he can build.  He also showed the group the new addition to his family, Tiny, his new green-wing Mccaw and the new glass bird enclosure. 

BRYAN ANGSTRM: CARPET CLEANING

 Bryan Angstrom, Naturally Green Carpet Cleaner, spoke in detail and showed a video about dust mites in mattresses and homes as the major sources of chronic asthma & allergy. He recommended vacuuming and cleaning  mattresses every 6 months and switching beds at least  every 6 years. Bryan who only uses natural products in his services, is mobile and is offering February specials to all LeTip members.

JUSTIN SLOGGATT: VIDEO PRODUCTION

Justin Sloggatt – Video Production, showed a funny and custom video he recently made starring  the captain William Shatner. This video was recently played in front of a live audience of 1500 people and it is on its way to be televised. Justin is a fine guitarist who can transfer all your old tape memories into DVD  format before they fade away. He can also capture them into a hard drive for custom editing. Justin can work with many tape formats such as VHS, VHC, MiniDV, HI8, BetaMax, BetaSP, 3/4 “ and DVCAM. Also, you can always tell your story with a custom made video by Justin for putting it in on your website, or posting it on all the social media sites.

CLEVELAND MORRIS: DRAIN CLEANING

Cleveland Morris – Drain Cleaning, spoke of many services he offers including: rooter service, camera inspections for locating blockages and underground pipes, sewage clearance and more. Morris as he likes to be called, services both commercial and residential properties and emphasized his ongoing customer service and mentioned that he works with Home Owners Associations as well.

TIRAN SHEMESH: HOME DECOR

Tiran Shemesh – Home Décor, showed a video of all his offerings that include area rugs from all over the world, office and home furniture. oil paintings, statues, modern art, vanities and much more. Tiran’s large show room warehouse in Glendale offers frames, in house stretch services, custom made oil paintings, and chandeliers. He also carries many catalogues that can be looked at and items chosen  to order from.

JEFFERY MARKS: VETERINARIAN

Jeffery Marks – Veterinarian, showed pictures of his recent safari in Africa and shared his inspiration moment there watching many exotic and rare animals. Jeffrey runs his 50 year old full service family business from two offices: one in Downtown which is open 7 days a week and another in Culver City, open 6 days each week. Dr. Marks and his staff offer personalized Vet care, taking advantage of a fully equipped  surgical office and an in-house laboratory. Other procedures they perform at their locations are digital ultrasound, laser surgery and digital videoscope.

KENDRIC ROLLINS, CRIMINAL LAW ATTORNEY

Kendric Rollins of Rollins Law Group, Criminal Law Attorney, talked about some of his current cases and showed why it is important to take the advice of your attorney to heart when there are felony or misdemeanor issues pending against you. Kendric who defends cases all over Southern California, confirmed that the crime rate is up and recommended staying silent in case of a brush with the law enforcement folks. He represents cases in Traffic courts all over the State as well.

JANE SILVERSTEIN, HOME AND OFFICE SECURITY SYSTEMS

Jane Silverstein of Metrowest Security, talked about the beginnings  of the start of her business with her husband Lloyd some 31 years ago. She disputed the recent news items declaring a drop in the crime rate by noting that many burglaries are reported as false alarms and include shoddy Police reporting. She recommended vigilance and making sure your cover all basis including learning how to use the distress code on your alarm panel. Jane’s family owned business specializes in camera systems, monitoring, alarms, and medical alert systems for the elderly.

LISSETTE PLEITEZ, RESIDENTIAL CLEANING SERVICES

Lissette Pleitez of Here 2Clean, demonstrated her residential cleaning services. Background music brought Nick Mendoza for a salsa performance with Lissette, and later Tessa Mendoza joined Nick in another performance. Lissette has a professional and reliable staff whose mission is to create spotless Homes for her Clients. She is bonded and insured and her experience in the field, is of great value to her repeat customers who all appreciate her honest approach to cleaning their homes. She recommended a gift of cleaning to a spouse or a significant other as a great way to express your appreciation.

DENNIS SMITH, PLUMBER

Dennis Smith of Red Truck Plumbing introduced a couple of the new systems he now installs which include water emergency shut off systems preventing unexpected, expensive, and extensive water damage to homes and businesses. He showed slides of some of his sensor based, battery operated installations and mentioned that they help with insurance coverage as well. Dennis a reliable and knowledgeable plumbing professional and is available for any emergenicies throughout the Holiday

ALEX TRAKHTENBERG, DRY CLEANERS

Alex Trakhtenberg with Camden Cleaners showed a video of his Dry Cleaning service and brought us samples of his no-oxidation, no-wrinkle wedding gowns boxes that he sells.  His comedy stint covered many members of the Club and their “dry-cleaning” postures! Alex, a long time & dependable Beverly Hills business owner, also does shoe repair and curtain dry cleaning, and provides delivery options for his clients.

JOHN MOSER, SEND OUT CARDS

John Moser with SendOutCards showed a video on personal and business features of his system and talked about the benefits, ease of use, and universality of his Service. He also created a Get Well card online electronically at the meeting, which was sent to Renee Goldberg- Web Designer on medical leave. His online cards cover all occasions and business needs and can be accessed 7x24.

BOB SNYDER, SIGNS AND BANNERS

Bob Snyder with Signs of LA is based in Sherman Oaks. He showed slides of his projects and mentioned statistics on the importance of signage as an effective form of advertising for businesses. He is a licensed contractor and bonded and runs a full service sign company, specializing in banners, channel & dimensional letters, vehicle graphics and much more. He applies for permits as needed for his projects all over Southern California.

GRANT NORRIS, MORTGAGE BROKER

Grant Norris, Mortgage Broker, explained his company’s merger with RPM and the new name. He has consummated over 7500 loans in 27 years in the business and presented some of his recent success stories. Grant emphasized the current record low interest rates and explained the factors influencing the rates and the Markets.

MICHAEL TAN, HOME THEATRE/AUTOMATION INSTALLATION

Michael Tan, Home Theatre, showed pictures of some of his 500 installations and explained how he can create dedicated video rooms, Home Automation , “smart homes” & more. He also does commercial and educations sites and did a performance with guitar for us featuring: “It’s Only Love” by the Beatles.

JONATHAN FRIEDMAN, JEWELER

Jonathan Friedman, Jeweler, showcased 12 of his beautiful items, all good for the Holidays and all other occasions. He will be showboating this Friday and will be open for business up to Christmas Eve and all the way to New Year’s. John offers a trusted alternative to regular retail jewelry stores.

LORRAINE EASTMAN, FLORIST

Lorraine Eastman, Florist, who has been in this line of business since 1990’s, showcased four versions of her beautiful flower and fruit arrangements. She can be hired for all occasions including events & parties and delivers orders locally. Her Gift arrangements can be shipped all over the country.

JEFF NADRICH, ATTORNEY (PERSONAL INJURY)

Jeff Nadrich, personal injury attorney, is the guy to call when you are hurt.  He is handling a case where 15 people were injured in shuttle bus accident on their way to a wedding.   Jeff handles auto, motorcycle, and bicycle incidents, train accidents, dog bites.  He is the one to call if you are injured by a dangerous product, such as asbestos, children’s Motrin, Dilantin, Levoquin, Avandia, Accutane, Paxil, Zoloft, Effexor, Wellbutrin, Chantix, and medical devices.  He also handles stockbroker cases, and Social Security denials,

SHARYN HILLYER, PERSONAL COACH

Sharyn Hillyer, personal coach, told us about handling stress from kids, money problems and the holidays.  She told us that each problem is an AFGO (another fine growth opportunity).  She taught us about breathing properly.  She also reminded us about the three Rs for handling problems.  First, Recognize (catch yourself) what is going on.  Second, Refuse to handle it in an unproductive fashion.  Finally, Replace the negative thought with an opposite one.

CATHE CARAWAY-HOWARD, ATTORNEY (EMPLOYMENT)

Cathé Caraway-Howard, employment attorney, showed us her pictures from her recent trip to France. She is coming up on 50, and she and Steve were coming up on their 10^th anniversary, so Steve decided they needed two weeks in France.  They did not go to Paris, instead they went to Fontainebleau, Alsace, the French Atlantic Coast, Burgundy.  In her law practice, Cathé handles problems with employees.  If you misclassify an employee, such as an employee as a contractor, you are in grave jeopardy.  Questions about employees?  Call Cathé .

ERIC HATFIELD, INSURANCE - HEALTH,LIFE,DISABILITY

Eric Hatfield, our president and life, health, disability and long-term care insurance agent, shared some facts about long-term care planning.  Long-term care is not health care, but instead helping people with the six daily activities (eating, bathing, dressing, etc.) that they need to accomplish.  In short, such care is to help the loved ones of people who are having difficulty with the six daily activities.  Eric is working on a special deal for LeTip members, to get a 10 percent discount on long-term care.

MICHAEL SIMMONS, BUSINESS INSURANCE

Michael Simmons, our business insurance member, was having audio difficulties.  He sells all forms of business insurance.  He sells liability, workers compensation, and property insurance, as well as bonds for wholesalers, retailers, manufacturers, building owners, and contractors.  He also sells professional liability insurance for doctors and lawyers or any sort of profession.

RICK BAUM, ATTORNEY-BANKRUPTCY

Rick Baum, our bankruptcy attorney, told us a few factoids about the original Rin-Tin-Tin.  Then he shared some thoughts about the bond market and its connections to the banks and world economy.  When he is not reminiscing about Hollywood and opining about bonds, he is the bankruptcy attorney who can help people who are going under.

JACK BERLIN, PRINTER

Jack Berlin, our printer, told us that he is not retiring (which means I have to pay several bets), but that On Demand and another are going to merge soon. Their offices will be in West L.A. and with larger presses, they can handle just about anything you want to print. 

BRIAN WHITNEY, FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Brian Whitney, our financial advisor, reminded us that “Failing to plan is planning to fail.”  If you want to retire in style, call Brian.  He has the tools and knowledge to help make your dreams come true.  

NONI KRIKORIAN, COMMUNICATIONS/TELEPHONE CABLING

Noni Krikorian, our communication cabling and telephone system member, told about the fine work and care they apply when they wire an office, home or business.


DONNA WOLFE, TRAVEL AGENT

Donna Wolfe, our travel agent, brought in mariachis and they serenaded the chapter.  Great idea, Donna.  When it comes to travel, dial Donna.  She knows her stuff.

ROBERT DAVIES, FURNITURE RESTORATION AND REPAIR

Robert Davies, furniture repair and restoration.  If your furniture and collectibles are worn or broken, Robert is the guy to call.  He is a second-generation craftsman and knows his stuff.

MARTIN HORWITZ, BUSINESS ATTORNEY

Martin Horwitz, our business attorney, should be reading your contracts and other legal instruments BEFORE you commit to them.  It's much cheaper that way.

STEVE RUBIN, TAX ATTORNEY

Steve Rubin, tax attorney, told us to cooperate with the IRS should they come calling.  The easier you make it on them, the easier they likely will be on you. 

SIGMUND THOMAS, TERMITE AND PEST CONTROL

Sigmund Thomas, pest control, uses the only method that is guaranteed to kill termites: fumigation.  Because of break-ins being reported during fumigation, his company is using various methods of securing a property he is working on.  And when he is not killing bugs, he enjoys fishing with his LeTip buddies.

JANE HALL, ESTATE PLANNING ATTORNEY

Jane Hall, estate planning attorney, had an epiphany when she was recovering from delivering her second child.  She decided she wanted to go to film school.  She produced The Legend of Tillamook’s Gold, which has been showing on Showtime.

TOMMY POWER, PROFESSIONAL FITNESS TRAINER

Tommy Power, our professional fitness trainer, tailors his workouts to each client.  He will help you be more healthy, more fit, and enjoy life more.

CAL KELLY, CUSTOM WOODWORKING

Cal Kelly, woodworking, can custom-make any piece of furniture you desire.  

MICHELE LAMARCHE, ACUPUNCTURE

Michele Lamarche, acupuncture and preventive medicine, treats many ailments, albeit from a Chinese medicine point of view. 

PETER TAUB, APPLIANCE REPAIR

Peter Taub, our appliance repairman, has a love/hate relationship with Viking appliances.  As a consumer, he hates them; as a repairman, he loves them. 

BIJAN KHARAZZI, CREDIT CARD PROCESSING

Bijan Kharazzi is the guy to consult when it comes to credit card processing.

ARLENE KRANTZ, BUSINESS COACH

Arlene Krantz, Business Coach, helping people grow their businesses and increase their profit. Everybody likes to talk business and money and especially in this economy.  What value do YOU give to your potential buyers.  People want solutions to their problem(s) and you must give them the proper solutions.  Who is your ideal client?   Do you keep in touch with your existing clients?  Improve your standing in the business community and set your business apart from your competitors.   Call Arlene for a free 30-minute break-thru session.

JESUS HERNANDEZ, AUTO DETAILING

Jesus Hernandez, The Perfect Detail.  Jesus began by showing pictures of his family.  Why drive a dirty car or any car that looks less than perfect, when Jesus can make polish, wax, clean and condition leather and detail your car to make it look new.  Cars, Boats, RV’s – whatever you use to get around, call Jesus to clean up your ride.

BARRY MOSER, CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT

 Barry Moser, CPA, Barry rode on Cathy’s energy, speaking about auditing, taxes and peer reviews for personal, corporations, non-profits, etc.    There are various reasons to incorporate.  Call Barry if you are an American who is required to pay taxes.

CATHY CAHILL, PHYSICAL THERAPY

Cathy Cahill, Cahill Physical Therapy spoke to us about being off-balance.  Cathy spoke about training somebody for balance using her assistant, Randy Chan.  Volunteer, Kendric Rollins generously attempted to duplicate the effort (and did very well).  Call Cathy if you would like to increase your mobility and physical being.

NISSIM MAIMON, HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING

CLAUDIA PRECIADA, CAREGIVER

Claudia Preciado, Caregiver.    You can trust the highly personalized attention offered by USA Caregivers, Inc. – a business that’s family owned and, therefore, takes all of your important requirements into consideration when preparing services for your incapacitated loved ones. Proprietor Claudia Preciado, and her partner/mother, Alicia Aguirre, treat each case individually, tailoring services that will cater specifically to your loved one’s (and your) needs. What’s more, Claudia and her team of dependable experts can provide these services anywhere: private residences, hospitals, convalescent homes, retirement homes – you name it

TIRAN SHEMESH, HOME DECOR

Tiran Shemesh, Home Décor.  Furniture, carpets and general home furnishings with style.    Pictures; oil painting; framing; boxing; unique furniture (from most any catalogue); and area rugs (machine or hand-made) are just some of the items that Universal Home Décor can provide.  In addition, see Tiran for custom area rugs done to the buyer’s specifications.  Show him an item from most any catalogue and he can either get it for you, or otherwise have it made for you.

PHILIP GERSHATER, C0MMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

Philip Gershater, commercial real estate, has spent seven years with Rodeo Realty.  He earned a bachelor’s degree in business and finance, and a masters in accounting, auditing and cost accounting.  He has developed shopping centers, office buildings, and condominiums.  He is eager to assist people to invest in commercial real estate, and help landlords in leasing.

RON BENVENISTE, PAINTING CONTRACTOR

Ron Benveniste, painting contractor, showed us his six-member painting team.  Ron is the guy to call for any painting job, from a door to a whole house or building.  He negotiates honestly, uses thorough preparation and the finest materials,   He even told us about his grandfather, Joe Bonomo, one of the first celebrity muscle builders. Ron is looking for contractors, property owners, interior designers, office managers, architects, large and small  projects.  His company is licensed and bonded, and has workers comp and liability.

JOHN MOSER, SENDOUT CARDS

John Moser, SendOut Cards, formerly an executive in media and TV, reported that year in and year out, people go to the same things, like the same authors.  Familiarity breeds trust.  Word of mouth is one of the most effective and Send Out cards are a way to tell your clients that you value their business.  It is a contact manager.  It is simple, easy, keeps you in your customers’ minds.  Keep John in mind for a simple, easy way to keep in touch in a personal manner.

GARY LOEB, ADVERTISING SPECIALTIES

Gary Loeb, advertising specialties, asked us, “How much is your seat worth?”    His net profit is more than $15,000 annually.  Due to the economic dowturn, he has lost his two largest customers.  LeTip has made the difference between feeding his family and not.  “LeTip keeps your pump primed.”  When you need to put your name on something—anything—except a wall in spray paint, call Gary.

ALVARD BARSEGHIAN, AUTO BODY REPAIR

Alvard Barseghian, auto body repair, told us that Harry’s Auto Body at the corner of Olympic and LaBrea can handle any body repairs.  Since Harry’s was established in 1974, it has grown from 600 sq. ft. to 75,000.  A complete one-stop repair facility, Harry’s accepts most insurance policies, all makes and models, offers free loaners and is open six days a week.  It has a wrecker service, and the repairs are guaranteed for life.  Harry’s is the only West Coast shop equipped for Aston Martin repairs. 

CASSANDRA BAILEY, MOBILE NOTARY PUBLIC

Cassandra Bailey, mobile notary public, and a newly minted Ph.D., will help anyone 18 or older who is of sound mind and filing documents of his or her own free will.  She shared some of the results of her dissertation research on African-American women entrepreneurs.  She focused on four variables:  motivational factors, family concerns, social barriers, and educational influences.  These women define their successes by more than just financial growth.  They cannot conceive of returning to the corporate world.  And their support networks are linked to their community involvement. 

ROBIN LEONARD, COURT REPORTER

Robin Leonard, court reporter, is the one to call when you need a transcription of a conversation that is error-free and at a reasonable cost.  Most of her work is during depositions that precedes trials.  When she started in court reporting, she worked with tape recorders.  Now she and her reporters use laptops with special software.  Among her more famous clients have been Eddie Murphy and Heidi Fleiss.  When it has to be reported accurately and in a timely fashion, call Robin, one of our newest members. 

TONY SANTARELLI, IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY

Tony Santarelli, an immigration attorney, favors the immigration policy proposal that the president announced recently that would require the deportation of felons but allow others to remain.  Right now more than 12 million undocumented immigrants live in our nation.  Each federal immigration judge has a five-year backlog.  Tony really believes in helping people with their immigration problems.  He even helps people who don’t have any money.  If you know someone who is undocumented, call Tony. 

DAN VILLAMIL, WINDOW TREATMENTS

Dan Villamil, window treatments, told us about a premium manufacturer, Vista.  He contrasted the costs of installing window films with the costs of not putting on window films, such as greater heating and cooling costs, replacing faded furniture and floor coverings sooner.  The films have lifetime warranties, provide greater comfort, are applied quickly and cleanly to the interiors of windows, are easy to clean, and reduce glare.  Finally, Dan noted that current films reduce your home or office’s carbon footprint.  When it comes to window films to protect kids, and make your home more livable, call Dan.  He’s the expert.

BARAK GRANOT, SEARCH ENGINE OPTIMIZATION

Barak Granot, search engine optimization, made his first presentation to our chapter.  He told us that SEO is necessary so that when someone looks online for your services, you are visible, Once a customer finds you, then you have to convert that person browsing into someone who contacts you.  Aiming at local markets is the way to go, he said.  Some 73 percent of online traffic is related to local content, according to Google.  More than 80 percent of local searchers follow up offline with an in-store visit, phone call or purchase.  Some 61 percent of searches result in purchases.  Barak is the guy to call because he does not require long-term contracts.  You can hire him 30 days at a time.  Your website is your portal to your customers.  When you want traffic to find its way to your website through SEO, call Barak.

BARBARA FRIEDMAN, BOOKKEEPING

Barbara Friedman, bookkeeping, is the person to contact when you want to outsource your bookkeeping.  Why is outsourcing a good idea?  It can cut costs, help your internal controls, and provide management with better financial information for making major decisions.  It helps save money on computer equipment and programs.  If you are spending time doing bookkeeping, instead of getting a new client, are you really saving money?  You have to keep your books up to date.  Calling Barbara Friedman is the cheapest and most efficient way of doing it.

P.J. BERJIS, LANDSCAPE DESIGNER

P.J. Berjis, landscape designer, showed us some great projects he has done.  People love water features and he is the guy to call.  Water fountains?  Of course.  But, how about a water clock?  He’s the guy.  How about water that moves and look great, but is contained?  Call P.J.  An IKEA store in Poland did.  How about the L.A. Dodgers?   Natch.  How about a water-vapor fog to catch customers’ eyes?  Who do you think? If someone you know needs a water feature in L.A. or Japan or Greece or Poland or Botswana or Tiera del Fuego or Mongolia or . . .  Call P.J.

CATHE CARAWAY-HOWARD, EMPLOYMENT ATTORNEY

Cathé Caraway-Howard, employment attorney, and membership chair, talked about the old idea, “What goes around, comes around.”  “One of the bylaws, I commit to is always have a fellow member satisfy my needs wherever possible.”  Jon Friedman, member retention chair, since last October, has talked to 88 members.  His conclusion:  that some of us are doing very well.  Most of us are struggling.  There is lots of financial pain amongst our members.  We need to think about things we can do to help.  When we give an inside tip, it is business that gets done.  The concept that is really important.  This is how we lift ourselves off the ground so we can prosper together.  Think of your fellow LeTip members and try to use their services.

EVE MAZZARA, GRAPHIC ARTIST

Eve Mazzara, graphic artist, told us about two projects.  Graphics, she said, are a way of organizing, a process, a way of thinking.  The process starts with what do you need?  Why do you need it? Who is going to see it?  What do you want to accomplish? Among the programs she uses are InDesign, Illustrator, PhotoShop.  Within InDesign, everything gets pulled together.  David Dubin gave her a great tip that turned into packaging graphics for a tea line that is now in  Whole Foods.   Among her new projects are iBooks, and graphics for smart phones, PDAs, Nooks, Kindles.

BRUCE LORMAN, REAL ESTATE ATTORNEY

Bruce Lorman, real estate attorney, talked about disputes with neighbors.  Avoid disputes at all costs.  Get to know your neighbors.  Knowing your neighbors might preclude or mitigate a problem.  Other issues he handles includes easements, encroachments, party walls, roots, etc.  If you have any real estate issues, such as buying or selling property, rental property, call Bruce. Bruce also is a partner in a horse-breeding ranch.

NICK MENDOZA, ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR

Nick Mendoza, electrical contractor, has been in that field for 27 years.  He suggests using light-emitting diodes to save energy and reduce pollution.  He also strongly urges everyone to obtain and use smoke and carbon dioxide detectors.  He lost a nephew several years ago to carbon dioxide.  Other suggestions from Nick include installing a separate circuit board for your smoke detector circuit, and install solar electric panels on your house.  “Instead of paying DWP, pay yourself.”  Nick joined LeTip 13 years ago and has been getting tips since the first week he joined.

JESS PERLMAN, AUTO SALES AND LEASING

Jess Perlman, auto sales and leasing, asked us why would we want to fix our own teeth, repair our own roof or design our own homes?  If so, then you don’t need an auto broker.  If you answered, “No,” then Jess, our auto broker, is the guy to call.  Jess is paid by the dealer, which cuts out the commissions for the salesman, sales manager and finance manager.  When you have Jess find a car for you, the dealership will not and cannot add the additional, unnecessary charges that are included with 70-75 percent of all sales.  Jess can deliver a car to your home or office, or you can pick it up at the dealership.  Needs wheels?  Call Jess.

ADAMM GRITLEFELD, DECORATIVE AND STAINED GLASS

Adamm Gritlefeld, decorative glass, started working with glass in 1972 as a hobby.  Nowadays, Adamm provides custom glasswork, such as beveled edge, stained glass, Tiffany lamps, historic restorations.  Among his customers are UCLA, the Doheny Mansion, Hollyhock House in Barnsdall Park, Second Church of Christ, Scientist, Woodlawn Cemetery, Parks Chapel, and Grace Church of Orange.  He represents 180 artists throughout the US.   Check out his cool shop in Santa Monica.


MICHAEL GREENFIELD, ENTERTAINMENT SERVICES

Michael Greenfield, entertainment services, dusted off his ukulele and we enjoyed “While My Guitar Gently Weeps,” and “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.”  Michael represents all kinds of entertainers: magicians, mariachis, barber shop and string quartets, you name it.  Whether you need a Persian guitarist, belly dancer, opera baritone or an elephant that can juggle, Michael is the guy to call.

GERRY KEOGH, TILING CONTRACTOR

Gerry Keogh, tiling contractor, has been creating tile creations for many years.  He learned the trade from the Rocca Family and has used those skills to work for U2’s The Edge, Phil Collins, Alana Stewart and Leonardo DiCaprio.  Gerry showed us pictures of some fabulous bathrooms, a fireplace, indoor and outdoor floors.  When you need tile, Gerry is the go-to guy.

JORGE MIRA, GLASS CONTRACTOR

Jorge Mira, glass contractor, can provide you with “anything related to glass.” A member for 15 years, Jorge told us, “One of the best decisions I have ever made was to become a member of LeTip.”  When it comes to glass, whether it is a simple pane or a $300,000 job for a contractor, Jorge is the guy.    He even played a video from YouTube, showing his work in achieving a curtain-wall look by using off-the-shelf materials of different colors in a building being renovated.  He also told us a story about an elderly man from Pasadena who kept hiring him for one job after another. The man told him one day, “I want to tell you that I have worked with a lot of people.  The reason I give you all this work is how responsible you are.  When you tell me your people will come, they come.”  When it comes to glass, call Jorge. 

DAVID BLATTEL, COMMERCIAL AND ADVERTISING PHOTOGRAPHER

David Blattel, commercial and advertising photographer, showed us some great pictures.  Photos of model Denise Richards had every guy’s complete attention.  He has been photographing her for the launch of a perfume line.  He showed us photos of the little boy who appears as a mini-Darth Vader for a Volkswagen commercial.  And, he is shooting Harleys for the 2012 Harley Davidson calendar.  Finally, he showed us photos from his recent climb on Yosemite’s El Capitan.  He and his fellow climber enjoyed French press coffee, hanging from the west face, while it rained, showed and hailed all day.  

DR. ELLA FEDONENKO, LASER COSMETICS AND SKIN CARE

Dr. Ella Fedonenko, laser cosmetics and skin care, could not speak Friday.  So, Erica Sercus, a former member who works for Ella, told us that she uses fillers to reduce facial folds, and Botox to suppress wrinkles.  Ella has two lasers that she uses to tighten skin, reduce or eliminate brown spots, unsightly veins.   When Ella gets done with you, you will look years younger. 


ROBERT PORTILLO, COMPUTER SOFTWARE AND TRAINING

Robert Portillo, computer software and training, gave us a trivia test on computers.  The answers:  The first computer was built in 1936.  The first transistor-based computer was built in 1951.  Smart phones are great devices that you can sync with your Mac or PC.  If you don’t know how to manage the applications on your smart phone, call Robert.  Smart phones can now open Word, Excel, and Power Point files.  Call Robert for all of your software and training needs, he and his staff can have you up and running in no time. 

LIONEL TROUILLIER, PAYROLL SERVICE

Lionel shared the history of payroll with us.  The word salary comes from the Latin word for salt, which he told us the Roman Empire used to pay its soldiers.  The first income tax came from Wang Mang, a Chinese emperor, who imposed a 10 percent tax and was killed in a peasant revolt.  President Lincoln passed the Tax Act, which imposed a three percent levy on incomes over $800.  In 1895, the Supreme Court invalidated income taxes.  The 16^th Amendment reversed that decision.  Payroll withholding began in 1913 with a levy of one percent over $3,000 in income.  In 1914, Form 1040 was introduced.  In 1935 the Social Security Act was passed, which started at two percent, and was shared by employers and workers.  When you need payroll checks to be correct, taxes withheld, you name it, call Lionel.

JEFFREY FRITZ, RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

Despite the slow real estate market, Jeff handled 37 transactions last year.  During his nine years of experience, Jeff has become an ecobroker, a sustainable building advisor and realtor.  His firm is the first and only certified green real estate group in Los Angeles.  Green building is coming, he said.  As buildings and homes are built and renovated, they will have to be “green.”  Jeff handles equity sales, short sales, bank-owned properties, trust sales, probate, auctions, seller-financed deals and inter-family sales.  He and his partner Laura Buffone can buy or sell a home anywhere. 

KATHERINE BLAKE, COLLECTIONS

Katherine told us a nifty factoid to use when sending bills.  She suggested adding “address service requested” to the envelopes.  The Post Office will charge a small amount to let you know if someone moved.  Katherine works for Transworld, which gets your customers to pay quickly.  A new service called, The Accelerator get your money moving.  Transworld offers complete online account management.  Katherine has even signed up a LeTip member from another chapter, a pest control company in Costa Mesa, and Transworld has enrolled the American Medical Association.  The group has never had a collection agency.  Transworld gets your money sooner because they start sooner, some 60 days after a bill is overdue.  Transworld does not take judgments. 

BRIAN WHITNEY, FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Brian Whitney, our financial advisor, reminded us that failing to plan is planning to fail.  Pay yourself first by putting away the money to live on when you retire. Look for liquidity events:  deaths, inheritances, property sales, retirement, changing jobs.  A great tip for Brian is someone who is paying too much in taxes.

MISHELE VIEIRA, PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZER

Mishele Vieira, our professional organizer, told us about hoarding disorder which is a psychiatric condition, separate from obsessive-compulsive disorder.  To help people with such a problem, Mishele works hand in hand with clients to repurpose spaces to suit them, as well as be efficient.  Mishele helps with paper management systems, filing systems, home and office moves, unpacking.  She always starts each job with the end in mind. 

ANNA VIRGEN, OFFICE EQUIPMENT

Anna Virgen, office equipment, compared two printing/copying/faxing/scanning machines:  one from Kyocera and another from Canon.  The purchase price of a Canon was $300 less than a Kyocera, but when life-cycle costs—toner, parts, service charges—are included, the Canon cost nearly twice as much as the Kyocera over three years.  That’s a lot of dough.  When you need to buy office equipment or just advice, call Anna. 

JESUS HERNANDEZ, AUTO DETAILING

Have a car or boat that has seen better days?  If your wheel or hull are looking grubby or faded,Jesus Hernandez, our auto detailer, will make them look like a million bucks.  Jesus shared some family photos from a visit to Mexico, as well as photos of cars owned by Jeff Marks, Tommy Power and Kendric Rollins.  They looked fabulous.  Call Jesus if you want to look good as you drive down the street.

JULIE HOPKINS, PHOTOGRAPHER: EVENT

Moments to remember will be remembered when you hire Julie Hopkins, our portrait photographer.  She showed us her gorgeous results of family portrait sessions, pets, dancers, babies, weddings and all the wonderful events before and after.  She has a new studio on San Vicente which she invited everyone to visit.

SHARYN HILLYER, RELATIONSHIP AND LIFE COACH

The most prevalent block in life that people experience is feeling that they don’t deserve it, according to Sharyn Hillyer, our relationship and life coach.  “What we feel is more important than what we think,” she said.  So many people internalize messages, starting early in life, that they are not smart enough, attractive enough, slender enough, whatever.  She cited a client she works with who has never had a significant relationship or been married, but is very successful in business, but has no confidence in her personal life.  As a child she was criticized every day for her appearance.  For such problems, she prescribes 3 R’s (recognize negative thoughts, refuse them, replace them with affirmative messages). 

KATE ALDIN, ATTORNEY: FAMILY LAW

Kate Aldin, our family law attorney, told us about the many issues for her profession created by Elizabeth Taylor when she entered into eight marriages to seven men.  Among the issues Ms. Taylor paid many lawyers to resolve were alcohol abuse, spousal support, child custody, a foreign marriage, no-fault divorce, adoption, two marriages to the same person which affects spousal support calculations, not to mention intellectual property.  Whew!  Who needs all these problems?  If you or someone you know is facing any or all of them, Kate is the one to call. 

KAREN SANDLER, FAMILY PHYSICIAN

The same medical symptom can be caused by different conditions and that’s why you need to call Karen Sandler, our family practitioner.  Board certified with an office in Beverly Hills, Karen has been in our chapter since 1998.  A young woman complaining of fatigue was found to have five fibroid tumors.  A man voicing the same complaint had high blood pressure..  Karen educates, diagnoses, and tries to prevent various health problems, including those we inflict on ourselves, like smoking, and eating too much bacon at the Olympic Collection.  She accepts most private insurance, has a Spanish-speaking staff and there is free street parking at her office.  A good tip for her is anyone with a cold lasting more than a week.  You can also tip her for an annual examination, second opinion, surgical pre-operative history and physical, Gardasil vaccine, hepatisis A and B and flu vaccines.

CYNTHIA JERVEY , INTERIOR DESIGNER

Making your home or office look good, even on a budget is what Cynthia Jervey, our interior designer, does best.  Bringing a place to life, making it attractive, comfortable and efficient is her stock in trade.  Whether you have new construction, a remodel, development of a design concept, space planning, in-home consults, color or material specifications, and home staging, you name it, call Cynthia.  She solves living and working challenges and avoids costly mistakes..  She will guide you through the decision-making process, find better-quality furnishings in styles that will stand the test of time and help you set priorities.


GARY LOEB, ADVERTISING SPECIALTIES

Putting your name on . . . you name it.  That’s what Gary Loeb, our advertising specialties expert does.  Whether you are thanking a customer or recognizing the great employee that has done yeoman’s duty for many years, he can help you find just the right item.  Gary brings a wealth of experience to his work.  He is a CPA and has been the chief financial office for a number of firms.  He respects budgets and hates to see money wasted.  Except for putting your name and logo on paper or on a sign, he is the man to call when you want important people to have your name in front of them.

NEW MEMBER: ROBIN LEONARD!

As of Friday, June 17th Executive LeTip of West LA welcomes its newest member Robin Leonard, she is a Court Reporter and can be reached at 818.995.2449 

Welcome aboard Robin!

JANE SILVERSTEIN, SECURITY SYSTEMS

With 30 years in business, Jane & Lloyd are true professionals supplying the greater LA Area with Burglar Alarms, Camera Systems, Fire Alarms and Personal Security for elderly or otherwise infirm.  Jane showed us a video of a house fire demonstration thereby encouraging everybody to have fire extinguishers, a rope ladder (for a second floor) and a full earthquake kit in case of emergency.  Contact Metrowest for both residential and commercial security.

CATHE CARAWAY-HOWARD, ATTORNEY: EMPLOYMENT LAW

Cathe told us about terrifying transgressions that occur in the office, or "Don't tweet your wieners," or,  "Don't tweet your cleavage."  Cathe reminds us that what happens on the internet, stays on the internet.  For both employers or employee's issues, contact Cathe.

JEFFREY NADRICH, ATTORNEY: PERSONAL INJURY

Jeffrey warned us about bad batteries in smoke detectors and went on to speak about independent contractors and over-time employees.  He told some interesting stories of people who were either unlucky (and got hurt), were in the wrong pace at the wrong time, or otherwise did something dangerous and go hurt.  If somebody gets hurt in an auto accident, slip & fall, or other incident, contact Jeff and he will either tell you that you do not have a valid case, or he will assist you in once again "becoming whole."

RICK BAUM: BANKRUPTCY ATTORNEY

Rick Baum, bankruptcy attorney: Bankruptcy is a system that started out very fair, so that every creditor could share in the goods of a failed business, and the merchant got to start over.  Bankruptcy, however, is not free:  You cannot declare bankruptcy and get to keep everything. The power to regulate bankruptcy was specifically given to Congress. It was set up to encourage people to take risks. We don’t want to punish them so severely when they fail that they can’t start again. His fees:  $2,500 for chapter 7, $25,000 to $50,000 for chapter 11; $4,000 to $4,500 for chapter 13. There are fees that can’t be discharged by bankruptcy:  student loans, debts by fraud, embezzlement, theft, a whole list.

ERIC AGAKI, PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR

Eric Agaki, private investigator:  Our Hoverview Investigations guy can find the folks you are seeking.  He can find someone, Steve Rubin reported, “even in upstate New York.”  Jane Silverstein hired him and found that a potential employee is an animal abuser.  Eric can perform service, surveillance, provide photos or even go undercover to find out if something is headed south at your business.

MICHAEL TAN, HOME THEATER

Michael Tan, home theater.  Michael told us all about the Kaleidiscape system in which video and music can be controlled with almost any remote.  It has a very user-friendly interface.  He also demonstrated the Sonos wireless media server.  It stores all metadata for music, album art, song info.  Everything from your iPod will be on Sonos.  Your iPad, iTouch or iPhone or Droids can control Sonos.  It connects to an iPod via the dock.  Anyone can come to your house and within seconds be controlling your system, even your cousin that loves polka music.

MAYA HAYON, BANKER

Maya Hayon, banker.  Our banker has several projects under construction:  A baby that is due in August and a new home in Sherman Oaks.  Maya is the vice president and branch manager of Union Bank in Santa Monica.  Formerly with Bank of America, Maya left because she wanted to give more personal service to her customers.  The CSUN graduate in business management is the middleman between her customers and the bank.  She gives options, advice and provides resources to meet your banking needs.  She is looking for customers tired of poor service or just wanting a new bank. 

DR. BILL NOJIMA, CHIROPRACTOR

Bill Nojima, our chiropractor, told us some of the secrets that insurance companies don’t want you to know.  First, most of us think that the vehicular damage incurred in an auto accident is directly analogous to the injuries sustained by the occupants.  Not true.  “When you have a little fender-bender, insurance companies don’t want you to believe you can really be hurt.  They don’t want you to be treated.”  When you have an accident, Bill said, first call Jeff Nadrich, our personal injury attorney, and then call Bill.  He is well trained and experienced in COLOSSUS, the computer program insurance firms use to evaluate accidents.  “And COLOSSUS favors the insurance companies,” Bill said.  Remember, Dr. Bill said, “We’ve got your back.”

BOB MIRMAN, AUTO MECHANIC

Bob Mirman, our auto repair guy, told us his most important business is the people business.  He believes in hiring, training and paying his people properly so that they will take care of the people who come in for tires.  He even admitted that when he asked his staff in a meeting if there was anyone who needed to be retrained or replaced, and they replied he was the only one, since he is computer illiterate and can’t stand for eight hours.  Does focusing on people work?  You betcha!  Bob reported that his tire shop does six times the volume of other dealers. 

CLEVELAND MORRIS, DRAIN CLEANING

Cleveland Morris, our drain cleaner, is just the guy to call when things are plugged up.  “That’s what I deal with.  I root it out, jet it out, treat it with Root-X.”  He can locate drain line breaks for residential, commercial and industrial customers.  “After 10 years, who knows what evil lurks in a drain?”  Call Cleveland of Mrs. Rooter’s Economical Drain Cleaning.  He’s the man behind the woman.

JEFF NORD, LANDSCAPING CONTRACTOR

Jeff Nord, our landscaping contractor, is the guy to call to make your home or office exterior look great.  “Service is our number one priority,” Jeff said.  He started 12 years ago with two helpers.  He had $500 in a bank account, but the phone started ringing and ringing.  Nowadays, Jeff has a fleet of 23 vehicles and a maintenance facility.  He can put in any kind of landscape you want.  Because he has a contractors’ license, he can even bring in a crane and use it to hoist a tree over your house into your backyard.  He can create walkways, stone patios, cobbled walls.  “If you have a vision, we can create it.”  He showed some great pictures of fabulous landscapes that he and his men built. 

KENDRIC ROLLINS, ATTORNEY: CRIMINAL LAW

 Kendric Rollins, our criminal attorney, is always good for a funny story, not to mention defending a client in court.  One client had a dog with a growth on its leg.  Several veterinarians suggested euthanizing the animal.  Long story short:  the last vet would not return the dog to its owner.  Instead, the vet called the police, then euthanized the dog.  The police arrested the man for animal cruelty. Kendric is still negotiating with the city attorney.  Sam Rosenberg endorsed Kendric’s skills, noting that Kendric was able to get a speeding ticket, which would have put points on Sam’s record, changed to another charge, which has no points.  Way to go, Kendric.

LISA PASCHALL, MASSAGE THERAPIST

 Lisa Paschall, our massage therapist and our source of Pascalization, told us about the benefits of regular massage.  Lisa, who graduated at the top of her class at the California Healing Arts College, treated a woman who had been in great pain.  Now the woman is nearly pain-free.  How often should you get a massage?  According to Lisa, as often as you can.  “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

JUSTIN SLOGGATT, VIDEO: CORPORATE AND ADVERTISING

Justin Sloggatt did not say a whole lot about the videos he creates for websites.  Instead, he and Michael Greenfield and Cassandra Bailey started jamming.  Everyone really enjoyed, “Take It Easy,” by the Eagles.

When Justin is not jamming with other LeTippers, he is making some great videos that can be used on a website, in a presentation, you name it.  Justin delivers the message clearly and to keep the audience engaged, he uses humor and uses it well.  When you or someone you know needs a first-class video, Justin Sloggatt is the name that should be on your lips.

ROBERT SNYDER, SIGNS AND BANNERS

 Robert Snyder, our signage contactor, provides full-service sign services.  The graduate of Drexel University, B.S. in engineering and an M.B.A., spent many years in manufacturing and now uses those skills to make great signs.  Among the types he produces are banners, channel letters, dimensional letters, light boxes, magnetic signs, posters, vehicle graphics, outdoor signs, you name it.  He cited a survey that found that of 7,200 people, some 46 percent find businesses from signage, while word of mouth accounts for 38 percent and the yellow pages, 6 percent.

STEVE RUBIN, ATTORNEY TAX LAW

Steve Rubin, our tax attorney, specializes in audits, assessments and appeals.  He is also an expert at trust fund tax liabilities, unpaid payroll taxes, tax court and refund claims litigation.  He offered many pointers on paying your taxes, and he counseled caution when hearing advertising regarding getting you out of paying taxes.  He concluded by noting that the IRS accepts compromises on unpaid taxes only when it is unlikely that the tax bill will be paid in full and the amount offered reasonably reflects the potential collections.  Tax problems?  Call Steve.

ROBERT PORTILLO, COMPUTER SOFTWARE AND TRAINING

Robert Portillo, our computer software and training expert, disabused Mac owners who often erroneously believe that they don’t need to worry about computer viruses.  “Even computers that run anti-virus programs are often infected,” he said.  Among the customers he reported were USC fertility expert Dr. Richard Paulson, who asked him to work on his home computer and later hired him to work on his office’s 30 computers and server.  Other customers include the Pasadena First Baptist Church, Bella Real Estate, Chequered Flag auto museum and more.  When it comes to software or training, for a Mac or PC, Robert is the dude to call.

PETER TAUB, APPLIANCE REPAIR

When it comes to buying appliances, “Avoid Viking and Sub-Zero.”  That’s a piece of sage advice from our appliance repairman, Peter Taub.  He should know.  He works on every brand, model and sub-species of every appliance.  He had everyone imagine they were in a meadow and they saw something green.  The green is the stack of money you will save by hiring Peter when your appliances are acting up.  He has 22 years of experience.  When your washer doesn’t wash, when your fridge doesn’t freeze and when your oven is cold, call Peter. 

DENNIS SMITH, PLUMBER

Dennis Smith, our plumber, reported that waste and sewer lines are serious business.  He showed us a four-inch waste line that connects to the city sewer line.  Properly done, waste lines drain to the sewer due to simple gravity.  He brandished a damaged waste line and noted that it had been chewed by rats.  Evidently these little rodents are willing to chew into waste lines and then use such lines to move all around your house.  Now, that’s a lovely picture!!!

JACK BERLIN, PRINTER

Jack Berlin, the chapter’s printer, reported that he has spoken some 473 times in front of a LeTip chapter.  QR (quick response) codes are very in vogue, according to Jack.  “A QR code is a amazing little square.  People with iPhones or other devices with cameras can focus on them and go straight to a website or blog or offering.  On Demand Printing can design one for you.  On Demand is a medium-sized company with 40 employees.  They have national corporate accounts for Teleflora, Pedigree Dog Food, California Pizza Kitchen, POM Wonderful, Fiji Water, producing booklets, packaging and fulfillment items.

RICHARD RAMER, ARCHITECT

Richard Ramer, our architect and a 17 year LeTip member, reported that he became interested in his profession when the environment was on people’s tongues.  His interest turned to excitement when he studied at the School of Environmental Design at Berkeley.  “I like to make spaces and places that make people’s lives better.”  A former Executive LeTip plastic surgeon got him interested in health care architecture.  Nowadays he co-chairs the health care design committee in the Los Angeles chapter of the American Institute of Architects.  He also designs homes, apartments, commercial and industrial buildings.

TOMMY POWER, PROFESSIONAL FITNESS TRAINER

Tommy Power, our professional fitness trainer, Tommy Power, started by asking what most people think of when they consider what a trainer does.  Instead of counting repetitions, Tommy provides neuromuscular re-education.  By re-educating your muscles, often by something as simple as walking or stretching, you can make yourself injury-resistant.  Tommy goes to the extra effort to learn how each client communicates and then he uses that method to communicate with his customers.  “I give them what they need,” he said, “and hope they have some fun at the same time.”  Tommy even designs gyms for his clients. 

A success story Tommy reported was about a woman who had a 40-degree scoliosis of her spine.  After three months of working with Tommy, she was able to pick up 40-lb. sacks of soil while gardening.  Hockey star Luc Robatille refers clients to him.

TIRAN SHEMESH, HOME DECOR

Home Décor.  Furniture, carpets and general home furnishings with style.  After arriving in the US as a tourist, Tiran drove across country from NY to Los Angeles and didn’t like it until he discovered that he could succeed in supplying large retailers and distributors.  Pictures; oil painting; framing; boxing; unique furniture (from most any catalogue); and area rugs (machine or hand-made) are just some of the items that Universal Home Décor can provide.  In addition, see Tiran for custom area rugs done to the buyer’s specifications.  Show him an item from most any catalogue and he can either get it for you, or otherwise have it made for you.

LISSETTE PLEITEZ, CLEANING SERVICE: RESIDENTIAL

Lissette Pleitez with Here2Clean.  Lissette brought a toilet seat in addition to several of her helpers so that we know who will be coming into our homes and offices.

Honest reliable, insured, bonded and licensed, Here2Clean will suit your individual needs from weekly, monthly, or even a one-time cleaning service.

ALEX TRAKHTENBERG, DRY CLEANERS

Alex can clean virtually any clothing article from a shirt to dry cleaning of suits. As a very professional cleaning service, Camden Cleaners does the unusual, including men’s ties; women’s suits; men’s shirts.  In addition, they do shoe and leather repair and polishing.

DAVID BLATTEL, COMMERCIAL AND ADVERTISING PHOTOGRAPHY

David Blattel, Commercial and Advertising Photography, shared pictures of his adventures in Yosemite that included base-jumping from El Capitan.  At the end of May, he will be climbing the face of El Capitan, with a buddy who roughs it in comfort with a sound system and French press coffee.  Last October he managed to survive two nights of climbing El Capitan.  They started at 8 p.m. and at 2 a.m. slept, hanging on the face of the gigantic rock formation.  According to David, the nights were totally black, thanks to no moon.  He thanked Dr. Bill Nojima, Cathy Cahill, and Lisa Paschall for keeping his body going to keep climbing.

ROBERT DAVIES: FURNITURE REPAIR AND RESTORATION

Robert Davies, Furniture M.D. a second-generation furniture, art and collectibles restorer, told the chapter that he can restore and refinish furniture, art, collectibles, paintings, fiberglass objects, fired objects, hand-cut glass, china, leather, lacquered items, dolls, cracked or broken marble or stone, wicker and other types of reeds, and tapestries.  He is always looking for moving and storage companies and their insurance companies.

BRYAN ANGSTMAN: NATURALLY GREEN CARPET CLEANING

Bryan Angstman:  Naturally Green carpet cleaning, really showed his stuff when he asked Ron Benveniste to pour syrup, butter, and coffee on a piece of carpet.  Of course, he went through the steps of his service.    First, he tries to pick up as much of the stain as possible by lifting or dabbing it with an absorbent, microfiber cloth.  Then he pre-treats the stain with a special solvent and cleaner and lets it work for about 15 minutes.  Next, he sprays the whole carpet with cleaner and uses his heavy-duty rotating scrubber with an absorbent pad.  When Bryan was done, lo and behold, the carpet was spotless.

GERRY KEOGH, TILE, MARBLE AND STONE CONTRACTOR

Gerry started his work at 19 years old as an apprentice in Dublin.   Today he is working for Marmalade Café, Café 50’s, HQ of mail.com, West LA YMCA, various Hollywood celebrities as well as a number of LeTip members.  One project used plain tiles, interspersed with glass mosaic interlays.  Indoor floors, outdoors, showers, bathrooms, kitchens – anywhere that you think tile can be used and then some.

KARL BROOK, (KRB CONSTRUCTION)

P.J. BURGESS, LANDSCAPE DESIGNER

PJ Burgess, Studio H20.  PJ will put together a palette of color and a variety of plants (many utilizing low water usage) to make your garden unique. He is especially interested in designing water features, from a 2 year project on Columbus Circle (NY) to a project in Texas, and various clients’ swimming pools.    From a small project (a client who wanted to create a “screen” in front of their driveway) to a total re-do of the landscaping at an estate, PJ can transform your outside space to something special.

DONNA WOLFE, TRAVEL AGENT

Donchka Travel. (a certified destination specialist to Turkey).  Donna showed a very interesting presentation about her recent trip to Turkey, which is a wonderful place to go if you want great value and an amazing historical trip.  From a brief weekend getaway, to special care traveling to Europe, Asia, Hawaii or NY, call Donna.

SAM ROSENBERG, RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

Sam Rosenberg tells us that he is aging along with his population (I don’t think so).   Holiday Villa is a fun place.  Think of a typical senior who moves into the facility.  Last week a senior had fallen, gave up his car and his family helped him decide that it was too dangerous for him to live alone.  We imagine rocking chairs, bingo, video movies and other notions of who a senior citizen is or should be.  At Sam’s last Lunch Bunch, he shared a story of a day that he had, fielding a phone call from the Police Dept.  Somebody had filed a complaint against one of his seniors who had spoken very badly to an employee.  Earlier in the day, this same senior (90 + years old), was in an altercation with another guest.  There was a love triangle and Sam had to mediate amongst these three residents..  Retirement is not about rocking chairs, soft music and soft jello.  Rather, the residents at Holiday Villa are living full lives surrounded by caring staff, a variety of activities and a very good outlook on life.

DR. JEFFREY MARKS, VETERINARIAN

Dr. Marks has been practicing veterinary medicine in L.A. for 31 years.  They have two vet hospitals with 25 employees.  One in mid-city (Washington Bl. Between Normandie and Vermont).  The business has been family owned and operated for 50 years (Dr. Marks is 2^nd generation) and they are open 7 days a week, offering full surgery, medicine and dentistry, also bathing, boarding and grooming.  The other office is across from Rancho Park, the Rancho Park Veterinary Clinic (this office is open 6 days a week). 

Don’t give your dog:  chocolate, milk or bones, but keep your pets healthy (or make them well), call Dr. Jeffrey Marks.

NONI KRIKORIAN, COMMUNICATIONS: CABLING & TELEPHONE

DEK Communications, Inc.  Noni showed up today dressed as a true cabling specialist in her jeans andtool belt.  Doug and Noni started the company in 1986 after the deregulation of AT&T.   Telecommunications has changed quite a bit in that time, but DEK is on top of the change.  They operate quite differently from the “trunk slammers” who are unlicensed, uninsured and under-skilled competitors.  Most business is commercial (where DEK will help design a system to the needs from the jack back.  DEK will do what it takes to get a business properly wired, including: ladder racking, a computer room, racks to hold patch panels and anything necessary for cabling and connectivity.  Call Noni for all commercial (and most residential) professional cabling services.

AUBREY WAITE, POOL AND SPA SERVICE

When you need a pool specialist, and the one to call is Aubrey Waite and Sons. Whether it’s a residential or commercial (condos and apartment buildings) pool, it takes a very reputable, reliable company who knows pool and spa maintenance inside out… not some college kid moonlighting.   Aubrey can be trusted to provide all services related to cleaning and maintaining all types of pools and spas with all types of maintenance systems.   He also provides all necessary repairs and advises when it’s time to purchase new parts.

GRANT NORRIS, MORTGAGE BROKER

With over 15 years of experience as a mortgage broker, Grant Norris, Vice-President of the Platinum Capital Group, knows his business. He has participated in over 3,000 loan transactions and specializes in helping first-time homebuyers, self-employed professionals, and those who are credit-challenged.

ARLENE KRANTZ, HYPNOTHERAPIST

Arlene helps you regain control of your life through the use of hypnosis, emotional freedom techniques (EFT) and neuro-linguistic programming (NLP).  If you know of anybody that suffers from the inability to stop smoking; eating disorders; ADD; depression; pain management issues; sleeping disorders or many other problems, they are a good candidate for a qualified hypnotherapist – Arlene Krantz as well as Arlene’s power partner, Dr. Hoppock.

Arlene tells us that many issues that we carry on our shoulders originated during our formative years and with hypnotherapy these issues can be acknowledged and perhaps making them less of a hindrance.

JEFF NADRICH, PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY

No fee = No recovery.  No charge to you until they obtain a settlement and 99% of their cases are successful.  Specialties include: Auto, motorcycle, bicycle and Personal Injury Specialists.   They will come to your office, home or hospital and advance all case expenses if it appears that you have a valid case. With over 60 years of experience, they handle auto, motorcycle, bicycle, airplane, ship and ferry, Metrolink, taxi-cab accidents, tire-separation cases are just some examples.  Jeff went on to show many dangerous drugs that are or were on the market.  Go to his various websites for more information or if you know of anybody who was injured in a personal injury case.

BARRY MOSER, C.P.A.

Barry Moser, C.P.A., Willing & Moser, An Accountancy Corporation.  Barry wanted to thank everyone who has referred to him.  Compliance: Business License, 1099’s Tax Returns,  Personal Property Statements, Statement of Information and Estate Taxes are just some of the issues that the IRS requires.

1099’s are an issue that many businesses overlook.  There is a penalty for failure to file at $15 per information return up to $25,000 if filed by March 30.  In the past, the IRS has not been too strict, but this year there are severe economic penalties.  Several years ago, the IRS required companies to issue 1099’s to all attorneys.  These penalties will double in 2011.  If you own rental property, you must supply 1099’s to anybody who does work on that property including gardeners and repair people.  W-9’s will be necessary for all vendors.