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.http://tinyurl.com/44fceyw 

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.

Several of Lissette’s “girls” paraded through the room showing their fabulous abilities.  You would have to been there to decide who looked prettier, Dennis (“Denise”) or Kenny (“Kenedra?”).  Then Lissette got serious, naming some of her actual crew members who have as  many as 30 years experience.

Honest reliable, insured, bonded and licensed, Here2Clean will suit your individual needs from weekly, monthly, or even a one-time cleaning service. http://tinyurl.com/2aavpdr  

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.http://tinyurl.com/25mn5dw

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.http://tinyurl.com/2ce5dro

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.http://tinyurl.com/2bsdvnu

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.http://tinyurl.com/28qrv57

RAJ CHHINA, COMMERCIAL JANITORIAL SERVICES

Raj Chhina, Tycho Services, a janitorial services contractor is looking for building owners, home owners’ association managers, property and office managers, hospitality directors of housekeeping, contractors, event planners, party rental companies, etc. His service provides day or night janitorial services, party clean-ups, construction site cleaning, floor services, including hardwood and marble.http://tinyurl.com/42axrxn

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.http://tinyurl.com/3eu8bsu

KARL BROOK, (KRB CONSTRUCTION)

Karl gave us tips on how to do a successful remodeling project. Beginning with contacting Grant Norris for financing, Richard Ramer for blueprints, a soils engineer and then picking the right contractor.   Research your project with Jeffrey Fritz and Kenny Furuya for values, Cliff Muller for construction management services, then Karl to make your home something to be proud of.  From a minor remodel, to brand new estate construction.http://tinyurl.com/3n2pmmr

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.http://tinyurl.com/3du3kup

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.http://tinyurl.com/3etbnvd

ELECTION RESULTS, EXECUTIVE LETIP BOARD

Congratulations to our newly elected Executive Letip Board.  Year 2011 is going to be a GREAT YEAR  for business.

   President: Eric Hatfield

   VP: Cathy Cahill

   Secretary: Dave Cagle 

   TipMaster: Sigmund Thomas

   Treasurer: Barry Moser

   Membership Chair: Cathe Caraway-Howard
   Past President: Eve Mazzara

*  Executive LeTip Spring Mixer, Wed., March 30^th, 5:45 – 8:15 p.m. @ Ozuma Restaurant, 395 Santa Monica Pl., 3^rd Floor.  2 hours free if you park before 6 p.m. ($5 after 6 p.m.).  Dinner & No Host Bar.   Members Free.  Guests $28.00 per person.

*  Welcome to our newest members: Julie Jennings, Become Nu (Skin Care/Cosmetics) 310-993-6602.  Contact Julie for skin care, or if you just know anybody who wants to  always have beautiful skin and look young.

b) Maya Hayon, Union Bank, Santa Monica.  Please contact Maya for all of your banking needs and questions.  

GEORGE DUBIECKI, WINDOW TREATMENTS

George Dubiecki, Home Carpet and Window Treatments loves the idea of tipping everybody that he can (hence he is often “Top Tipper”).  George hired David Blattel to take pictures of the window treatments that they are installing in a customer’s beautiful home.  One example, a Hunter Douglas, Vignette that can be rolled up, dropped part way down, closed down and opened – all battery operated.  In the breakfast room, there are sheers, decoratives and wood rods.  Each window in this beautiful house had exquisite window coverings in designer quality fabrics (your choice is endless).  There are truly very few restrictions on what they can do.  You are doing this work on your home to enjoy life, don’t restrict yourself.  Call George, who is a professional when it comes to Window (and floor) Coverings.http://tinyurl.com/36edaee

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..http://tinyurl.com/4862m2w

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.http://tinyurl.com/4td6pal

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.http://tinyurl.com/24t6uwf

DAVE CAGLE, MARKETING CONSULTANT

Dave Cagle talked about helping kids in Nepal today (a non profit),  Please contact Dave if you would like to help.
Strategic Ink will make it happen! He'll put together news releases, brochures, advertising and marketing programs, magazine articles, presentations -- whatever it takes to put your name before your customers.http://tinyurl.com/4898u3m

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.http://tinyurl.com/4qk3kxb

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.http://tinyurl.com/4jlph2s

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.http://tinyurl.com/29mmanu

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.http://tinyurl.com/46qof23

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.http://tinyurl.com/27rg8hc 

MITCH SODIKOFF, WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS

Intratem Wireless Communications.   Graduate Course in understanding how to drive value to your customers.  Possibly outsourcing certain aspects of the business, including Full-Service Wireless Expense Management.  Phones, Devices, In-Vehicle Contraptions -- all of which are growing in cost.  Same contract. Same Carrier, but a better bottom line and better service than the carrier.  Otis Elevators, DelMar Fairground, Toyota, MPG Office Trust, Cornerstone on-demand, Hallmark, American Golf are some of the larger corporate clients.  Many of them had their IT Departments slashed and were able to utilize Itratem.  Organizations with multiple phone carriers, large employers, non-profit involvement, revenue sharing with non-profits.http://tinyurl.com/4bctfxd

SHARYN HILLYER, M.A. LIFE & RELATIONSHIP COACH

Sharyn Hillyer, M.A., Coach: Relationship & Life.  In part because Monday is Valentine’s Day, Sharyn spoke to us about relationships.  Many of the aspects of personal relationships pertain as well to a committed relationship – only more so.  Sharyn tells us that marriage gives us a lot more opportunity for growth.  AFGO – Another “Friggin’ Growth Opportunity” seems to arise often in relationships and especially in a marriage.   We are often attracted to somebody who is going to repeat a dynamic from childhood or to a personality type that brings out feelings and situations from childhood..  These range from alcoholism, to demanding or narcissistic, to somebody who literally hides from their feelings.  Sharyn will help you learn a new way to deal with an old feelings leading to healthier, better relationships. http://tinyurl.com/287mrqq

DAVID DUBIN, M.D. , NEUROFEEDBACK

David Dubin, M.D. California BrainWorks.  There are 4,000,000 kids in the U.S. who are on Ritalin and many of these people could by treated and cured by Dr. Dubin.  ADD, Anxiety, panic attacks, social anxiety, and nightmares amongst other issues are all extremely treatable via Clinical Neurofeedback / EEG Biofeedback.  Using an electrical impulse for a fraction of a second (less than the energy of a cell phone) Dr. Dubin can treat ailments ranging from ADD to anxiety and depression.  Under the general heading of “BioFeedback.” the treatment is usually covered by insurance.    If you would like to learn more, please contact Dr. Dubin.http://tinyurl.com/25djdgm

MICHELE LAMARCHE, ACUPUNCTURE

Michele treats her patients using a combination of Eastern (including, Acupuncture) and Western medicine -- simple, preventive medicine. As a Master of Chinese medicine, Michele tells us that acupuncture, herbs and nutrition

are all important.  The “Western” side of her practice allows her to be a health detective, prioritize the treatment and then treat using Western and Eastern medicine.  

Michele’s primary modality is acupuncture, but then she can run a blood chemistry, see what the patient is eating, how much exercise they are getting and their general life style.  She can refer to a physical therapist (Cathy Cahill), a personal trainer (Tommy Power), or a physician (Karen Sandler, D.O.) as needed.  Speak to Michele for a healthier, more balanced life.http://tinyurl.com/2cyeual

ERIC HATFIELD, CLU, ChFC (LIFE, HEALTH AND DISABILITY INSURANCE

Eric began his presentation with pictures of Harper (very cute).  He told us about his new website, www.hatfieldhealth.com used to quote individual health insurance and also useful for finding a provider in the appropriate network.  24 hours a day, you can get an insurance quote on the site.  You can also compare less expensive plans here.   Online applications are processed two weeks faster than paper applications.   PPACA, Health Care Reform Act.  Preventative Care is covered 100%, not applicable to a grandfathered plan (prior to March 23, 2010).  Eric went over the various provisions of the plan.  Please call him for details on your LH&D insurance.   Speak to Eric if you want a highly qualified intelligent assistance for all of your life, health and disability insurance needs.http://tinyurl.com/6hoqpzk

JOSE DIAZ (JAD ROOFING)

Roofing Contractor.   Jose showed us a video of a commercial job and also work that he did on Jane Silverstein’s house.  In that case, he fixed a leak on Jane’s roof that had been unfixable for years and years.  From minor repairs to a whole new roof, to the installation of skylights (with Karl Brook), contact Jose.http://tinyurl.com/6gqw64e

KARL BROOK (KRB CONSTRUCTION)

Karl Brook and his assistant, Beverly showed a beautiful presentation of some small and large remodels that he has done recently.  In one house, he was able to isolate part of the house for the occupants while the major construction proceeded.  For a professional job, well-done, it is best to contact KRB.http://tinyurl.com/4gqwndm

BILL HOPPOCK, PH.D. PSYCHOLOGIST

Psychologist.    Parent-Child Relationship .  Interesting PP presentation on the parent-child relationships. . . . . and papa I don’t think I said I love you near enough.”

The concept of this relationship is so profound and emotional that it becomes the basis for quite a bit of therapy.   The history is important because it can cause or relieve tension in adult relationships.  Conflict – Forgiveness.  When we forgive, it is not about the other person, it is about us.  Dr. Hoppock can help you with small and major issues. http://tinyurl.com/4o6a5sr

MARTIN HORWITZ, BUSINESS LAW ATTORNEY

Martin began his presentation with a question.  You buy a bat and a ball and it costs you $1.10.  The bat costs a dollar more than the ball, how much does the ball cost? 
Dissolution of a partnership – was there a written agreement when the partnership originated?  Document your agreement before there is an issue.  A client owed several thousand dollars and Martin explained the small claims procedure because the case was too small to utilize his services.  Martin would rather refer a client to a specialist, such as Cathe Caraway-Howard, when it is out of his specialty.  The practice is a general practice, as he works both plaintiff and defense.  From a minor  legal issue that is worthy of small claims court to a serious contract issue, contact Martin for expert legal help.http://tinyurl.com/25pjqq9

JEFFREY NADRICH, PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY

Jeff promised us a very entertaining presentation and delivered.   He encouraged the membership to use fellow members when they need services, as he does (just one example is Eve for Graphic Arts work).  If you need the best service, hire an experienced professional.
As a contingency service, N&C does not get paid unless the client gets paid, so they will only take a winning case.  If you are in an accident and injured, do not give a statement to the insurance company until after you have spoken to your attorney at N&C.   Another reminder is for ample Uninsured Motorist insurance, which many people do not carry.  Protect yourself and call your insurance agent (Manderscheid) today.  Please keep Jeff’s phone number in your phone in case of an accident.http://tinyurl.com/46qof23

ALVARD BARSEGHIAN, AUTO BODY REPAIR

Harry’s Auto Collision Center, since 1974 at the corner of Olympic & La Brea.  Harry’s is the only name you need after an accident (in addition to the other driver who hit you).  Harry’s is the right move when somebody blew it.  Repairs guaranteed for life, Harry’s is an insurance direct repair shop for a long list of insurance company.  If want your car (anything from a Toyota to an Aston Martin) to look new, see Harry’s.http://tinyurl.com/47qpwms

NICK MENDOZA, ELECTRICIAN

R&N Electric, Inc.  R&N’s philosophy is that the customers’ needs are most important hence a high percentage of his business is on repeat customers.  When it comes to electrical work in your home or office, you need experienced professionals, such as R&N with 27 years experience.   Nick also showed us the children’s home that he supports in Tijuana along with some LT members who have volunteered their time and money to the children.http://tinyurl.com/4ruf992  

DAN VILLAMILL, WINDOW TINTING

Window Tinting Auto, Office & Home.  Dan will save you money by saving energy; protecting your furnishings, floors, carpeting and upholstery.  Protecting a child by not allowing them to fall through a window; anti-graffiti film; film on granite to protect it.  Last week Dan did a special job at USC, Melrose (to prevent tagging); Beverly Hills (a $12k job with the most expensive film available).http://tinyurl.com/22p4vdu 

RON BENVENISTE, PAINTER (INTERIOR & EXTERIOR)

Painter, extraordinaire Ron Benveniste.  RB Painting Company, high quality painting since 1979.  Honest contract negotiation; thorough preparation; courteous employees; only the finest materials; they don’t use shortcuts; they take care of your property; quality finish coats and they know what they are doing!  Ask Ron about “adhesion.”http://tinyurl.com/4sjrs5h 

CAL KELLY , WOOD WORK

Wood worker, Cal Kelly,  showed us some beautiful, environmentally friendly samples of his work, including his own desk with green laminate drawer fronts (compressed paper) and Asian handles; custom stair cases; a unique curved fence (though he does not typically do fencing) and various pieces of magnificent furniture.  Quality work by a true craftsman.http://tinyurl.com/488ca8e