The 2009 Audi Q5

The new Audi Q5 combines the dynamism of a sports sedan with highly variable interior and versatile options for leisure-time and family use. Strong and efficient engines, quattro permanent all-wheel drive and agile running gear have been brought together to create a superior technology package for both on- and off-road driving. Highlights such as the innovative seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission and the Audi drive select control system are proof of Audi's Vorsprung durch Technik. The sportiest SUV in its class is dynamic, multifunctional and comfortable.
The dimensions alone indicate that this is a SUV of all-new proportions. Measuring 4.63 meters (15.19 feet) long and 1.88 meters (6.17 feet) wide, the Audi Q5 is just 1.65 meters (5.41 feet) high - making it sportier than any of its competitors. What's more, this SUV sets another benchmark in its class with a low drag coefficient of 0.33.
With its sporty elegance and artfully sculpted forms, the design of the Q5 is perfectly in tune with the character of Audi as a brand. The front end is dominated by expressive headlights on both sides of the large single-frame grille; on request, they can be outfitted with bi-xenon lamps and LED daytime running lights. Viewed from the side, the large wheels and rising edges are especially prominent features.
Crowned by a railing, the elegant slope of the roof underscores the slim, coupe-like styling. At the rear, the wraparound tailgate - made from aluminum just like the hood - clearly identifies this SUV as a relative of its older brother, the Audi Q7. The taillights are available in eye-catching LED technology as well.
Audi offers three different options for the external trim of the Q5 - black (standard), contrasting color or full paint finish in the color of the car. Two body packages are available as well. The S line exterior package imparts a decidedly sporty look to the performance SUV, while the alternative off-road style package with underbody protection in the front and back and 19-inch wheels gives this SUV a robust flair.
The Audi Q5 employs design elements typical of the brand in the interior, but adds its own unique variations - the driver-oriented cockpit is set higher, for example, in keeping with the upright sitting position. The ergonomics are exemplary, boasting the uncompromising craftsmanship one expects from Audi - a little treat for the senses in terms of look and feel. The clear-cut interior takes on even more charisma with fine materials such as aluminum, exclusive woods, chrome, leather and Alcantara as well as a large selection of optional design packages.
The 2.0 TDI transfers its power to a six-speed manual transmission. Audi has built innovative technology into both the 3.0 TDI and 2.0 TFSI - the S tronic, a new twin-clutch transmission with seven speeds. This high-tech component can execute gearshifts in just a fraction of a second while offering exceptional comfort and high efficiency. Drivers can let the seven-speed S tronic shift automatically or select gears manually, when desired with rocker switches on the steering wheel.
The pioneer of all-wheel drive, Audi builds the Audi Q5 standard with quattro permanent all-wheel drive - the only logical solution for a dynamic SUV. In normal running conditions, the transfer case distributes the power to the front and rear axle in a 40:60 ratio for a rear-focused style that enhances driving pleasure. When needed, the quattro driveline can deliver up to 65 percent of the power to the front axle and a maximum of 85 percent to the rear axle.
The new performance SUV from Audi is sportily precise, spontaneous, safe and comfortable at the same time. Its electronic stabilization program (ESP) has been re-designed and enhanced with innovative functions not available from the competition. A sensor “tells” the ESP if a roof rack has been mounted, causing the Audi Q5's center of gravity to be shifted higher in keeping with the roof load of up to 100 kilograms (220.46 pounds). If a roof rack is present, the ESP engages earlier in the handling limit. Without a roof load, the driver is free to tap the full dynamic potential of the Audi Q5.
For more information on the 2009 Audi Q5, contact Rusnak Audi Pasadena, located at 267 West Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena (888-980-7876), or Rusnak Audi Westlake, located at 3832 Thousand Oaks Boulevard in Thousand Oaks, (888-260-1088).

NEW Rusnak Auto Group Commercial

Over the last few weeks, we have been developing a TV commercial representing all of our brands. Featuring Mr. Rusnak, the attached spot focuses on our longevity in the business, keeping our clients happy, and the serious importance of maintaining a higher standard. In this new world economy, stability and trust is critical…especially when buying or maintaining your car.
Click here to view the commercial on RusnakOnline.com.

Rusnak Supports Hillsides Charity
Gala for Foster Care Children

Raising $380,000 to support programs for foster care children and families in crisis, Hillsides celebrated its annual gala dinner and auction, “Tangerine Dreams: A Jazzy Affair,” on Saturday, February 28 at a private club in downtown Los Angeles.
For the 17th consecutive year, the Pasadena foster care charity gala was emceed by Fritz Coleman, weather forecaster for KNBC-4 and honorary chairman of the benefit. 
“We are so honored you have gone against what we expected: a softening of attendance because what is happening in the world today,” Coleman told the guests. “You are our economic stimulus package. I am your friend and I want you to spend the remaining pittance that you have in your bank account.” Laughter ensued.
            Pasadena resident and Hillsides Benefit Chair Ellen Hatch gave “a nod to Dave Brubeck for his iconic piece – “Tangerine”, my first introduction to jazz music, a perennial favorite and the inspiration for this year’s jazzy affair.”
“Jazz musicians know a bit about turning the blues into triumph!  Unloving homes, unspeakable abuse, inability to concentrate let alone go to school – these are the norm of kids first encountering Hillsides.  But Hillsides has been creating safe places for children for nearly a hundred years – a safe home, a school, transition to independent living, and family and community outreach.  No matter how hard the economy has hit your portfolio, I guarantee these kids have been hit harder,” said Hatch.
The Jacob Maarse Florists designed floral arrangements made of tangerine and orange roses set in a silver bowl. Kumquat trees with twinkle lights and draped in silver fabric were displayed throughout the various entrances of the check in, the great hall, and dining room. The auction displays were adorned with tangerine, lime and silver fabric that set the mood for a vibrant and festive evening.
The foster care children’s charity’s gala lifted spirits, knowing guests' contributions will help children who have experienced traumatic childhoods and strengthen families in crisis. The live auction winners included Jacob Maarse who left home with a Holland America Cruise and a very rare necklace by Barbara Poer Designs; Stephen Hatch will explore Napa Valley while Paul Rusnak will dine with Dr. Drew Pinksy and friends; and David Sniezko will tour London, England.
Thereafter, a paddle auction raised $44,000 for the foster care children’s residential program.
Guests savored sliced fanned avocado with fresh mandarin oranges on a bed of baby lettuce with vinaigrette dressing and broiled herb crusted filet mignon with forest mushroom ragout with red wine sauce and a medley of potato dauphine, asparagus, bundles, and acorn squash timbale. Dessert was a trio of tangerine and lemon sorbet, pistachio ice cream in a tulipe cookie shell lined with dark chocolate.
Other highlights included children's wishing well, silent auction and opportunity drawings, all of which were complemented by Mark LeVang and his band, entertainment throughout the evening. 
Some sponsors recognized were Bill and Susan Noce, Marge and Sherm Telleen, Eva M. Casner, Linda and Stephen Gill, Jacob and Clara Maarse of Jacob Maarse Floral Design, O’Malley and Ann Miller, Ben and Judy Reiling, Rusnak Auto Group and The Walt Disney Company.
To learn more about the foster care charity or the gala, visit www.Hillsides.org.

Rusnak Supports Read Across America Day

The Willard IB Elementary Magnet School celebrated Read Across America Day. This day was set aside to commemorate Dr. Seuss’ 105th Birthday and to participate in a nationwide celebration of reading promoting literacy and honoring an author of timeless children’s books.  Dr. Seuss’ books are important to students because they break down literary elements – such as sentences and rhyming in easily understandable ways.  This year, as in the past couple of years, Liz Rusnak Arizmendi was asked to read to students in the 3rd grade on Friday, March 6th.
Rusnak Auto Group is pleased to support the Pasadena Educational Foundation.

Rusnak Launches the All New 2009 Audi Q5

Rusnak Launches the 2009 Boxster and 2009 Cayman S

Rusnak Porsche Pasadena and Westlake launched the all new 2009 Boxster and 2009 Cayman S mid engines in March.
The dealership hosted the VIP guests to hors d'oeuvres and champagne from the Scarlet Tea Room while viewing the exciting and sexy Porsches. LA DJ rocked the house as the guests took part in a raffle to attend Pelican Hills Resort and Spa with a Porsche Boxster for a weekend.
For more information on the 2009 Porsche Boxter and Cayman S, contact Rusnak Porsche Pasadena, located at 325 West Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena (888-452-1557), or Rusnak Porsche Westlake, located at 3832 Thousand Oaks Boulevard in Thousand Oaks, (866-453-5876).

The Colleagues 21st Annual Spring Luncheon, Featuring The Fall 2009 Collection of Designer Kevan Hall

Mrs. Michael (Nettie) Dart, President of the Colleagues, announced that Wolfgang Puck and his wife Gelila Puck were this year’s honorees at The Colleagues 21st Annual Spring Luncheon. The event was highlighted by the premiere showing of Kevan Hall’s Fall 2009 Collection.
The annual fundraiser to benefit the Children’s Institute Inc. was held in the Grand Ballroom of the Beverly Wilshire Hotel on March 19, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. Actress Angie Harmon presented the “Champion of Children” award to the Pucks for their philanthropic endeavors. Rusnak Jaguar was the automotive sponsor for this grand event for The Colleagues and Children’s Institute.

Wolfgang and Gelila Puck
The name Wolfgang Puck is synonymous with the best of restaurant hospitality and the ultimate in all aspects of the culinary arts.  The famous chef has built a gastronomic empire that encompasses three separate entities: Wolfgang Puck Fine Dining, Wolfgang Puck Catering and Wolfgang Puck Worldwide.  Concurrently with his restaurant and catering operations, Wolfgang has made a name for himself as a communicator.  He has written six cookbooks and has been a regular guest on ABC’s Good Morning America since 1986.  Wolfgang’s syndicated newspaper column, “Wolfgang Puck’s Kitchen,” appears in over 30 newspapers in the United States and Canada, reaching more than 5.3 million people every week.  The chef is known to countless television viewers who see him regularly on Home Shopping Network (HSN) where he demonstrates recipes using his growing line of Wolfgang Puck branded housewares.
Puck is actively involved in numerous philanthropic endeavors and charitable organizations, including his own Puck-Lazaroff Charitable Foundation which has raised over $10 million for Meals-on-Wheels programs of Los Angeles.  He is also a major supporter of the American Cancer Society, the Alzheimer’s Association, the Special Olympics, the Cystic Fibrosis Society, Race to Erase MS, Children’s Diabetes Foundation, Revlon/UCLA Women’s Cancer Research Program and Mazon.



Kevan Hall

Molly Simms and Kevan Hall

Detroit-born Kevan Hall’s fashion creativity emerged early at the age of 7. He knew he wanted to be a fashion designer. He won 1st place as “Designer of Tomorrow” – a scholarship sponsored by LA’s Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising which brought him to LA. In 1998, Hall stepped into the prestigious position of Design & Creative Director of Halston reviving the dormant brand to its former glory. In 2002, he launched Kevan Hall Collection with a fashion philosophy that emphasizes purity of style, incomparable tailoring and sensuously draped streamlined silhouettes. In 2002 he received the Chicago Gold Coast Fashion Award as “Designer of the Year” and in 2005 was awarded “Stylemaker of the Year” by Life & Style Magazine for his ‘drop-dead glamour’ as seen on the red carpet with Vanessa Williams, Virginia Madsen, Katherine Heigl, Debra Messing and many others. “The most gratifying part is seeing a design come to life on a beautiful woman.” Rejecting trends and fads in favor of a lasting signature look, Hall’s hallmark of glamour with a modern sensibility is a priceless gift to the welcoming world.
www.kevanhalldesigns.com

Angie Harmon
Angie Harmon’s childhood dream was to become an actress.  Born in Dallas, Texas, she first followed the example of parents who were both professional models.  At 15, Angie won the national cover contest for Seventeen magazine, launching a highly successful modeling career.  She appeared on the covers of Vogue, Bazaar, Cosmopolitan and many other fashion magazines, and walked down runways in the fashion capitals of America and Europe.  Her wish to act came true in the mid-1990s when she began to land roles in television.  Angie’s big break came when she was cast as Assistant District Attorney Abbie Carmichael on the long-running courtroom drama, “Law & Order”.   Since that time, she has played leading roles in film and television. Angie and husband Jason Sehorn, a former professional football player for the New York Giants, are devoted parents to three beautiful daughters. In addition to juggling the demands of family and high profile careers, the two demonstrate in word and action a strong commitment to improving the lives of underprivileged children. Last year, The Colleagues presented Angie and Jason with the Champion of Children Award.

Children’s Institute
Children’s Institute, Inc. (CII), a private, nonprofit organization, has served the Los Angeles community for more than 100 years. CII has created one of the nation’s strongest models for working with children affected by violence—child abuse and neglect, sexual abuse, domestic violence, and violence in their neighborhoods and schools. With 25 programs, over 350 employees, and hundreds of volunteers, the agency serves over 15,000 vulnerable children and families each year in some of Los Angeles’ most devastated communities. For more information, visit www.childrensinstitute.org.

The Grand Opening of the Ultimate BMW Dealership

Rusnak Jaguar Sponsors Five Acres

Distinguished Speaker Series

On Wednesday, April 8th, 2009, Distinguished Speakers Series of Southern California will present Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf. Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, fondly called the “Iron Lady” by her supporters, has been leading, healing, and rebuilding Liberia as its president since 2005. From her service as a Liberian Cabinet Minister in the 1970s, senior United Nations administrator in the 1990s and now President, this Harvard educated woman, has never stopped working for democracy for her country. When she opposed the military rule of Samuel Doe, she was imprisoned before eventually fleeing. Her years in exile afforded her valuable international experience. As Africa’s first elected female leader she is bold and courageous, unfazed by the enormous challenges she faces, and surprisingly optimistic about her chances for success. In 2007, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor bestowed by an U.S. president. Rusnak Auto Group has been a proud sponsor of the Distinguished Speakers Series for the past 8 years. To purchase your season tickets, please visit them online at www.speakersla.com or call Kathy Winterhalder at 310-546-6222.

Flintridge Preparatory School’s
Annual Fathers Club Golf Tournament

From The Rusnak Mailbox

Numerous letters of gratitude were received this month. Here is one we would like to share with you.

We start off this month’s mail with a wonderful letter to the Public Relations Department:

Hi Liz,

I am only too happy to take the time to let you know how rewarding it has been to be a customer of Rusnak Auto Group since 1980 when we picked up our first Porsche 911. We are now second generation! Most recently, I have been training my 17 year old son, a junior at Flintridge Preparatory School, on the art of automobile maintenance. He drives a bright red Audi A3 and makes regular visits to our service advisor, Larry Vena. Larry is truly a saint and has taken great care not only in getting the work done promptly, but helping me make sure our son knows how to care for his car. I thought you should know how much we appreciate all that Larry does.

Best,
Joan Aarestad

PS I love the fact that Rusnak Auto Group also supports its community through good deeds, far and wide. We notice!

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