Five Acres Raises $150,000 at Annual Golf Tournament

The 21st annual Five Acres Invitational Golf Classic netted $150,000 to support the diverse programs and services for at risk children and families served by the Altadena/Pasadena-based agency. Since 1987, the tournament has generated nearly $2 million for the 120-year-old child and family services organizations.
Reaume Financial Group was the presenting sponsor of this year’s event, held October 6 at San Gabriel Country Club. Additional sponsors and underwriters included Wachovia Bank, Kathy and Mark Weber, Majestic Realty Foundation, the William R. and Virginia Hayden Foundation, Kathy and Tetsu Tanimoto, Chapman & Associates, Community Bank, Pasadena Magazine and The Pasadena Outlook and La Cañada Flintridge Outlook.
The first place net winning foursome consisted of Stender Sweeney, Jim Opdyke, Dan Pouliot and Kevin Alyn. First place gross winners were Brad Reaume, Paul De Forest, Sherwood Sterling and Scott Henderson.

Rusnak Auto Group provided chances to win a 2009 Audi A4 and a 2009 Jaguar XF. The gorgeous Jaguar was the official hole-in-one vehicle for Classic, but went unclaimed for want of a hole-in-one at the designated hole. The winner of the Audi A4 raffle will be pulled at a drawing at the Five Acres Annual Meeting March 3. Raffle tickets for the posh automobile can still be purchased for $50 each through Five Acres website at www.5acres.org.

Co-chairs of the 2008 tournament were Ryan Dietz and Bill Hayden. Actress Jordan Baker-Kilner was master of ceremonies for the dinner, which was serenaded by the Peter Smith trio.
Founded in 1888, Five Acres is a child and family services agency providing therapeutic prevention, treatment and education programs to strengthen families and prevent child abuse. Services include residential care and education, mental health services in homes and schools, foster care and adoptions and domestic violence prevention.

For more information about Five Acres, contact Susan Silverman, Director of Annual Giving at (626) 798-6793 ext. 2279 (email ssilverman@5acres.org) or visit Five Acres’ website www.5acres.org.

Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC

Mercedes-Benz has engineered the finest vehicles in the world, to be the finest vehicles for the world.
Introducing the clean and fuel-efficient 2009 BlueTEC SUVs.
Mercedes-Benz has always been a leader in automotive innovation. Now we're leading the way once again with a stunning breakthrough in our BlueTEC technology—the cleanest luxury diesel SUV. When it comes to the environment, we take a holistic approach to all our vehicles—from production to performance to recyclability.

A BlueTEC SUV is not only environmentally responsible, it's extremely fuel-efficient. The ML320 BlueTEC and the GL320 BlueTEC boast 600 miles driving range on one tank, and the R320 BlueTEC (with a slightly smaller fuel tank) achieves an impressive 500 mile range*. And because it's a Mercedes-Benz, you'll enjoy styling, stellar performance and an unprecedented level of comfort and safety.

For more information, visit or call our Experienced Sales Associates at Rusnak Mercedes-Benz Arcadia, 55 W. Huntington Drive, Arcadia, CA 91007 (888) 829-3912.

The Rusnak Touch as Seen in Roar Magazine

The trappings were tres chic. L.B. Valentine. Vendome Palace. Hermes. Edwards-Lowell Furs of Beverly Hills. Bang & Olufsen. A catwalk-style presentation of Leona Edmiston Couture Fashions. Hors d'oeuvres from the renowned JJ's Steak House. And, of course, a preview of one of the most visually striking, technically sophisticated and driver-oriented sedan cars ever built. As a dealership fully committed to customer service and community involvement, “We wanted to do something different, something to echo the bold new design language of Jaguar,” says Liz Rusnak Arizmendi, Vice President of Public Relations for Rusnak Auto Group. The success of this event was due in large part to incorporating distinguished, elegant partners that would complement this exciting new car. “We already knew our guests were fans of Jaguar, but combining the debut of such a stunning new car and in such impeccable fashion, it was perfect,” adds Haitham Fakhoury, Rusnak Jaguar's General Manager.

THE RUSNAK EVENT CHECKLIST

1. Create an atmosphere beyond the product, so that clients will stay longer in the showroom
2. Have a give-a-way or raffle and pick the winner at the end of the show to keep clients interested in staying for the events entirety
3. Involve other companies to participate in the event, to make attendees more comfortable and further the customer experience
4. Set up a reception desk to capture contact information for future events
5. Have fun!

Bringing the Jaguar brand and other customer favorites together can show that dealers are concerned with more than just the sale of a car. The bottom line, after all, is customer satisfaction. “Increasing customer service and community involvement is as crucial to the longevity of our company, as it is to the Jaguar brand as a whole,” adds Rusnak Arizmendi. With over a dozen cars ordered over the course of that one evening, events like this one seem like a great way to do exactly that.

Roar Magazine Autumn issue 2008

Rusnak & Caruso Cocktail Reception at the Americana

Invitations were sent to select friends of Bentley Pasadena, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Pasadena, Caruso Affiliated and The Petersen Automotive Museum for a private event at The Americana at Brand in Glendale on October 11.
Cars were strategically positioned on The Green, in front of Katsuya, for maximum exposure from Valet on Caruso Way and/or Valet on Central Avenue.
Upon entry into Valet off of Central Avenue, guests were introduced to a classic Bentley and Rolls-Royce prior to seeing the 2009’s on The Green.

“An overwhelming success….a great way to launch the Caruso Concours d’Elegance”
“We have never been treated so well …
“We will be back next year…”

Rusnak Featured on NBC News

Rusnak was featured on NBC’s local news in a story regarding the use of Nitrogen in tires, which of course is part of the Rusnak Standard.
Click Here to watch the “Pablo's Perspective” segment.

Rusnak Jaguar Supports “Fashion Wins”

Lisa Vitale

The “Fashion Wins” at Sasan Boutique was the highlight of fashion week in Pasadena. Rusnak Jaguar along with Huntington Catering and Scarlett Tea Room sponsored the event in the chic showroom on October 11th. Young ladies from Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy, Flintridge Preparatory School and St. Bede the Venerable in La Canada Flintridge, were asked to compose an essay about “What is Your Definition of Beauty?” The essays were submitted via email and the top inspirational essay winners represented their school in a runway fashion show. Lisa Vitale, Lauren Panatisakas, Andrea Kropp, Jessica Martin and Serena Morris from Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy, Caroline Bender and Isabella Arizmendi from St. Bede the Venerable, and the Varsity Cheer Squad from Flintridge Preparatory School strolled the catwalk. Actress and Model, Vanessa Branch, emceed the evening and spoke of the girls remarkable essays, and one in particular.

“Beauty is a word one must define personally, based on his or her individual views. To me, beauty is much more than what meets the eye. “Beauty” is simply truth; it is what lies beneath the surface. Beauty is not hair color, or skin color, it is the tolerance the individual has for all races. Beauty is not clothing or shoes, it is the gratitude one has for all they are blessed with. Beauty is not the makeup on ones face; it is the story ones eyes tell. Beauty is not the image of the individual, It is the attitude. Beauty is not the money one has, But rather the spirit one has. Beauty is not the things one knows, It is the things one is willing to learn. Beauty is not what one appears to be; it is what one truly makes of the life given to them.” wrote Lisa Vitale.

“The fashion show and shopping spree raised money for each school and Rusnak Jaguar was proud to sponsor such an unique event.” said Haitham Fakhoury, General Manager Rusnak Jaguar.

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week 2009
at Smashbox Studios

Los Angeles label Whitley Kros was chosen as the “Mercedes-Benz Presents” Designers for the Spring/Summer 2009 Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios on October 12-16. Comprised of design duo Marissa Ribisi and Sophia Coloma, Whitley Kros' Spring 2009 collection was presented on Sunday, October 12 at 8:00PM in the Main Tent.



The brand's name, Whitley Kros, is a fictionalized character named after a street in Ribisi's hometown of Los Angeles and Coloma's in Sydney. Ribisi and Coloma created Whitley Kros to embody their vision and design esthetic and act as muse for the label. A relaxed style focused on fun fashion created with colorful and interesting prints to reflect a chic traveling flair.
“Mercedes-Benz is pleased to support Whitley Kros as LA's 'Mercedes-Benz Presents' Designer, for this season,” says Lisa Holladay, National Manager, Brand Experience for Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.“We see a connection between our latest Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC SUVs and Whitley Kros designs, which are inspired by and created for an active lifestyle that values versatility, style and luxury.”


Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios was held in Culver City, California, at Smashbox Studios, from October 12-16, 2008. Renowned designers were presenting throughout the week, including Kevan Hall and Christian Audigier. Mercedes-Benz has been the title sponsor of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios since its inception in Los Angeles in 2003.
For more information about Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios Spring/Summer 2009 collections, consumers are invited to visit www.mbusa.com/runway.

3rd Annual Wine & Jazz Walk in Sierra Madre

Rusnak Auto Group was one of the sponsors of the 3rd Annual Wine & Jazz Walk in Sierra Madre benefiting the City of Hope on Saturday, October 25 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Everyone enjoyed the small town charm of Sierra Madre at the 3rd Annual Wine & Jazz Walk. Guests visited unique shops and restaurants while listening to the live performances from the best of California's jazz artists. One hundred percent of all proceeds go directly to the City of Hope for cancer research. This year, the City of Hope received $50,000 from the event.
The Wine & Jazz Walk was first produced by Angel Throop and Sindee Riboli, who continue as event chairs. “I think cancer has touched everybody's life at one time or another,” says Throop, owner of the women's clothing boutique Angels Everywear in Sierra Madre. “My father-in-law George was treated at City of Hope and friends of mine with breast cancer were treated there. I wanted to do something for City of Hope – the people out there are so amazing. I am in awe.” Throop thought that her friend Sindee Riboli – they bonded at Tournament of Roses events - would be an ideal co-chair. Riboli agreed to co-produce the event and donate wines from the Riboli Family Estates San Antonio Winery. Thirty-two businesses participated in the walk, opening their doors to serve first class wine and tasty snacks.

The walk showcased the best of Sierra Madre, with food from its restaurants, wine from San Antonio Winery, and jazz artists hand-picked by Café 322 proprietor and musicians.

Women’s Council of Verdugo Hills
Hospital and Foundation

On Saturday, November 1st, 2008 The Women’s Council of Verdugo Hills Hospital and Foundation will host with great excitement their annual fundraiser, “The Main Event…Dreams of Fall”. The event will be held at the prestigious Hilton Hotel in Glendale. The main event begins at 6:00pm with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and a fabulous silent auction. A four-course dinner follows at 7:30pm with a special live auction. After dinner, the band, “Title Wave,” will provide the entertainment for dancing. Rusnak Jaguar and Bentley Pasadena will sponsor the valet parking.
For more information, please contact the Verdugo Hills Hospital Women’s Council at (818) 952-2228.

2008 Chinese American Film Festival

The 2008 Chinese American Film Festival (known as CAFF) is scheduled to be held in November for an entire month.
Representatives from many partners in co-sponsoring the 2008 spoke their support at the News Release, representative from East West Bank as the Honorary Sponsor, from Air China, as the Official Airline, Courvoisier, as the Official Cognac, Bentley Pasadena, as the Official Car Dealer, Cidyle, as the Official Cosmetic, T-Mobile, Bank of West, Yves Castaldi, West Union, Asahi Beer and DJ Production.
For more information go to: http://www.ccyp.com/EventNews/News.asp?NewsID=204.

Distinguished Speaker Series

On Monday, November 17th, Distinguished Speakers Series of Southern California will present Bob Newhart. Bob Newhart has a comedy style that has crossed all generational lines and media, from his 1961 Grammy Award-winning Album of the Year, The Button Down Mind of Bob Newhart, the Peabody Award-winning and Emmy nominated TV network series The Bob Newhart Show, to the motion picture, Elf, He has guest hosted The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson 87 times, and has hosted Saturday Night Live twice. With Bob Newhart’s trademark button-down style, ordinary demeanor and his uncanny ability to observe humor in everything, expect an evening of laughter and insight to the human psyche. Rusnak Mercedes-Benz 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.

Pasadena Marathon

Pasadena Forward brings you the Pasadena Marathon presented by Kaiser Permanente on November 16, 2008! Rusnak Audi Pasadena will serve as pace cars at the marathons. Pick your pleasure—whether you’re looking for a Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K, Bike Tour, or leisurely 3.1-Mile Run/Walk, we offer an event that is just right for you! The Kaiser Permanente Pasadena Marathon course will feature areas of interest throughout this historic Southern California city, including Pasadena’s beautiful residential neighborhoods, lively Old Pasadena, lush gardens, and many cultural landmarks. With Pasadena as your fall destination, this top-quality event is sure to find a place on your race calendar for years to come.

Event start times at Pasadena City College are as follows:
Bike Tour, 6:00 a.m.
Marathon & Half Marathon, 6:30 a.m.
5K & Fun Run/Walk, 6:50 a.m.

For more information or to register, go to http://www.pasadenamarathon.org/.

Raffle Benefiting Five Acres

From The Rusnak Mailbox

Numerous letters of gratitude were received this month. Here are a couple we would like to share with you.

We start off this month’s mail with a wonderful letter to Michael Bradford, General Manager, Rusnak Audi Pasadena:

Hi Michael,

My name is Peter O'Melveny and I received a letter from you regarding my sales experience with Rusnak. I want you to know that Andreas Treutler, who sold me an Audi A5, was great. In fact, if it wasn't for him I doubt I'd be driving my Audi today. Andreas was very, very personable and being a first time buyer that was important to me. He was genuine and more than patient with me. He was very knowledgeable and knew his product. He knew everything about the car and was able to translate that knowledge to me.
I went to about 15 other dealerships in a 2 week period, including a couple of Audi dealerships and there is no question in my mind that Andreas was the best salesman I dealt with during that time. In fact, the other Audi dealers salesmen were downright awful. Not trying to slight Audi, but they were short with me and really didn't make any effort to get me in their cars.
Michael, I'm not the type of person that goes out of my way to give someone my recommendation or give them accolades. But I just wanted to let you know that you have a great person representing Rusnak Audi. I found my experience with Andreas extremely satisfying and look forward to working with him again in the near future, as I'll soon be in the market for another car for my wife.

Regards,

Peter O'Melveny
Pasadena

Dear Chris Aldworth (Audi Pasadena Service Manager),

I am a longtime customer, since 2001/2002, of Rusnak Audi.  My loyalty to the Rusnak dealership and service department in particular is directly attributable to the fine work of Johnny Borja, Audi Service Advisor.  He is helpful, friendly, courteous, and knowledgeable. I have recommend Johnnie/Rusnak to friends and colleagues who drive Audi's. 

Regards,

Canard E. Barnes, CFM
Senior Financial Advisor
Merrill Lynch

Rusnak Public Relations Department,

I just want to say that you guys have been putting together some wonderful event such as this. It’s very classy and stands out. I wonder whose idea is this? I would love to be able to meet the person whom set this up and pick his/her brain a little bit.

Sean Lee
San Marino
Bentley Pasadena client

Dear Liz Arizmendi and Mike Bradford,

Thank you so much for including the La Canada/Flintridge Educational Foundation in last month’s Rusnak Audi “Keys to Success” and College Launch event. We really appreciated the opportunity to partner with you, Rusnak Auto Group and Tammy Huang-Anacleto. Thank you all that you do in the community.

Deborah Weirick
La Canada Flintridge Educational Foundation

Dear Rusnak Auto Group,

Thank you for your kind sponsorship of the 3rd Annual Sierra Madre Wine & Jazz Walk benefiting City of Hope. The funds raised by this event will be designated directly to current research programs in need of funding at City of Hope. This funding allows the doctors in charge of the programs direct access to these funds without having to wait on promised grants that can take up to a year to receive. Time is of the essence when battling cancer. Thanks to your kind generosity we can dream and one day achieve living in a world without cancer!

Thank you again! Kindest Regards,
Sierra Madre Wine & Jazz Committee

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