1,200 Sandwiches

Shima 0 comments 12.10.2015

Every Monday, I am sharing a ‪#‎MCM (Man crush Monday) of a local resident of the South Bay to bring awareness to those making a difference in our community.

Today’s #MCM title belongs to Herman Villoria, who has spent 20+ years feeding the homeless in Los Angeles EVERY Saturday!

Herman Villoria was born in Bogota, Colombia. His parents had nine children in total, and he was the sixth child. He migrated to the U.S. in January of 1965 and never got married or had children. However, he was fortunate to have 22 nieces and nephews which he loves dearly and for this reason, never felt as though he missed out.

Today, Herman works for the Boeing Company in El Segundo as a Tool Crib Lead. He has been working with Boeing for over 26 years. Outside of spending time with his family and working, Herman works with the Missionary Brothers of Charity as a volunteer every Saturday.

Often, many people begin organizations or goals only to give up when progress is not seen quick enough. Herman has proven his loyalty to the Missionary by committing his weekends, no matter the rain or sunshine.

The Missionaries of Charity Brothers was founded in 1963 by Mother Teresa in hopes of feeding the homeless in order to bring to light the passage ‘Matthew 25: 36-4’ from the Bible. Herman has been with the missionary since 1988.

The Missionary is ran by missionary brothers and volunteers who come on Saturday to help prepare 1200 sandwiches, nearly 50 gallons of ice tea and pastries. The sandwiches are prepared at the home of the Missionary in L.A. and then volunteers split into seven different routes and distribute the items through the streets of Los Angeles to the homeless.

According to Herman, “We reach out to those who are the poorest of the poor. Most of our routes are walking and some are driving. We get anywhere from 12 to 25 volunteers each week, on holidays we see many volunteers. This is when people want to help.” Despite many charities which have monthly or even annual events, the Missionaries of Charity Brothers meets every Saturday- rain or shine!

The volunteers do not preach to the people about mother Teresa for she “said not by words but by our example,” Herman explains. He has found that the people on the street are very grateful. They often see the same people since they go to the same areas and they know they are coming.

In order to create the items for the homeless, the missionary relies on donations which often comes from those who know about the cause. Donations are needed to supply items such as ham, cheese, bread, bread bags, ice tea, cookies and cups. Herman explains that people can simply help by donating gallon containers of mustard, sandwich bags, or cookies. In addition, gift cards to Smart and Final will aid in purchasing these items.

Herman’s weekly schedule for Saturday is as follows:

1.Leave his house at 8:30 to get to the Brothers and help prepare the food to be taken out to the streets.

2. Leave the Missionary at 9:15 or 9:30 depending on the amount of volunteers and how soon preparing everything is completed.

3. Reach out to anywhere from 50 to 75 people on his route, which Herman explains is best to complete with five people. However, it is often that he does this alone.

Herman explains that the missionary is in need of volunteers who would like to do this on a regular basis, that way they can continue keeping the missionary alive. His volunteering shift is completed as early as 10:30 in the morning, but the rewarding feel lasts all day.

He believes that the most rewarding thing thus far has been the people he has met and how grateful they are. According to Herman, “It’s just right to try and reach out to so many on the streets that just want to be treated as humans. All it takes is a little hello, how are you doing today.”

Thank you, Herman, for selflessly spending your Saturdays giving back to our community and making the world a better place. 

If interested in learning more about the Missionary, please refer to the youtube link here and if interested in donating, please email Herman at [email protected]

Helping Give Every Baby a Healthy Start

Shima 0 comments 07.10.2015

Every Wednesday, I will share a resident of the South Bay contributing to making our community a better place.

Today’s #WCW title belongs to South Bay resident, Cindy Perez who is a member of the March of Dimes’ committee where she raises money to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality.

Cindy, 27, is a South Bay native who is currently working in the medical field while also finishing up school.  When she is not juggling school and work, she is a member of the March of Dimes committee (Orange County Chapter).

Despite her demanding hours with school, Cindy dedicates time to pay it forward by raising money as well as prepare and contribute in organizing the March of Dimes yearly 5k walk/run. Cindy raises money by educating and bringing awareness to others about March of Dimes.

Cindy was inspired to pursue March of Dimes when a friend of the family’s son died a few weeks after birth. Cindy’s aunt and she decided they wanted to do something to support their friend, and soon grew to love the organization and after a few years of attending and raising money for the March of Dimes, they decided to join the committee.

With the help of social media, Cindy has been able to bring awareness to others about March of Dimes.  In addition, she posts flyers at work, gym, school etc. Prior to the first year Cindy joined March of Dimes, she was not aware of how many newborns are born prematurely or with birth defects.  She hopes that with each passing year, she can bring more awareness to others.

Cindy would like people to know that March of Dimes is a nonprofit organization that helps improve the health of newborn babies. Every year, March of Dimes helps the premature rate drop, give support to the families of the newborns, and invest in the research toward lowing birth effect and death rate. For more detailed information, one may visit their website here.

In addition to bringing awareness to March of Dimes, Cindy contributes to society by participating in other 5ks and attempting to raise money for whatever causes that may be. Just recently in the month of September, she participated in the Los Angeles Dodgers foundation 5K where money was raised for children to in Los Angeles to be able to have special programs within their school. Just last week, she started a toy drive where she collected over 200 items to donate to the Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles.

Cindy believes every person is different and has a passion for something different from the next person, so she encourages others to find something they are passionate about and research what ways they can help in that area.

Cindy explains, “My soft spot is helping children which is why it is so easy for me to willingly dedicate time to March of Dimes.”

Do I Need to Hire a Home Inspector?

Shima 0 comments 06.10.2015

A commonly asked question is, “What is a home inspection and do I need one?”

In short, a home inspection is a thorough examination of the condition of a home. Although it is always recommended, not everyone chooses to have one.

Your home is one of the largest and probably most precious investments you will make in your lifetime. You want to make sure that a professional will examine areas that you may have missed. As stated in the Statewide Buyer and Seller Advisory in bold letters and caps, “You are strongly advised to investigate the condition and suitability of all aspects of the property. If you do not do so, you are acting against the advice of the broker.”

Consider it this way: When purchasing a car, you do not just purchase it because it looks nice. (Well, I’d hope not) You do research, analyze it, and coordinate with a professional so that you can determine that it’s not only a good car for you, but it’s safe, durable, and THE ONE.

Realtors will conduct an Agent Visual Inspection Disclosure (avid), which is primarily to seek anything noticeable that may impact the value or desirability of a home. However, because agents are not trained to diagnose or seek for interior damages, he/she may be able to only notice things that are clearly obvious. Such as, scratches on the floor or chipped paint. However, a professional will know whether you need to look further into mold, a smell under the sink, etc.

ecause Realtors are not able to visually see or know what may need work and what doesn’t, they don’t expect you to either. Realtors are not trained in this profession nor have the credentials to inspect a home. In result, a professional will be able to visually capture any defects that you do not see.

Both buyers and sellers are informed that the buyer has the right to obtain several inspections under most residential agreements. The buyer is instructed to have an inspection completed within his/her Buyer’s inspection contingency period. This period, protects the buyer by allowing him/her to have a home inspected within a specified time period. The Inspection contingency therefore protects the buyer who can choose to cancel the contract or negotiate repairs if for any reasons required.

Most often, people believe that they can analyze a home based on what they see- the walls, floors, and surfaces. A home inspector, however, will be able to acquire information regarding the home’s plumbing, roofing, and insulation that someone without the knowledge and training, could do not detect.

Upon completion of an inspection, you will be informed of any interior or exterior damage that may alter your choice of purchasing a home. The inspector will provide details of his/her findings with a report.

The final report will assist a buyer in deciding whether to follow through with the purchase, cancel the purchase and have any earnest money returned, request for further investigations, or request for repairs.

Remember, a home inspection is only a small sum of what you will pay in relation to the dent unseen damages can cost you.

Finding Possibility in What You Love

Shima 0 comments 05.10.2015

Today’s #MCM title belongs to South Bay’s Business man, Shahram (Anthony) Shoghi who has combined his love of a healthy lifestyle with his business administration knowledge,  resulting in a successful produce company.

Shahram was born and raised in Southern California and has developed a penchant for produce from a young age.  Growing up, Shahram enjoyed the benefits of a healthy lifestyle, exercising regularly, a disciplined diet, and fruits and vegetables. While at the University of Arizona during 2008-12, Shahram studied Business Administration, which helped him realized he could essentially connect his love for produce and business together.

His experience has aided him in building partnerships with outside producers by keeping constant communication with growers around California, Mexico, and Florida. According to Shahram, “This is imperative as the most important thing in produce is providing top quality.”

In January of 2015, Shahram joined Moonland Produce which is a full service wholesaler of fruits and vegetables out of Vernon, CA. Additionally, they specialize in repacking, processing, cold storage, and custom processing.

The business model was built around the concept of avocado ripening, treating avocados with ethylene gas to speed up the ripening process. In result, this would ensure that customers have ripened avocados for consumption the day of purchase, then come back for more. Shahram explains that his company has also recently acquired farm land in California and Florida where we they grow exotic dragon fruit.

Moonland Produce specializes in leafy vegetables such as spinach, lettuce, cabbage, etc. They are proud to also import avocados from Mexico, Chile, Peru, and the USA. Moonland Produce has a bevy of foodservice and retail clients. Some of their clients include: Northgate Gonzalez Markets, Seafood City Supermarkets, Harmon’s City in Utah, Super A Foods, El Super, and smaller ethic stores such as Fresh Choice Marketplace, Wholesome Choice, and Crown Valley.

Although there are many nutritional benefits in fruit and vegetables, Moonland’s own variety of Dragon Fruit provides many health benefits, these include: fiber, antioxidants and a multitude of vitamins. After discovering the natural antioxidants the fruits provided, Shahram stopped taking his multivitamin daily and substituted it for a daily serving of dragon fruit.

Dragon Fruit also aids in controlling blood sugar levels and one serving contains 50% of your daily recommended Vitamin C intake. According to ‘Skinny with Fiber,’ “ The dragon fruit is jam-packed with antioxidants that combat free radicals and prevent them from messing with your vital functions.”

Dependent on the variety, one should expect to pay $3 a pound or as high as $12 a pound for some of the more exotic varieties! Shahram finds that the beauty of Dragon Fruit is that it’s versatile. He has used it to it make low sugar jams and smoothies. Shahram says, “I personally just split the fruit with a knife and eat the flesh out with a spoon. Many store the fruit and eat it at room temperature, but I prefer chilled… It’s all preference.”

For Shahram, the most difficult part of becoming involved in such a demanding business is working a 6 day work week with only Sundays off.  According to Shahram, “On the days I work, my alarm clock is set to 3:30AM. What many don’t know about the produce industry is that the peak of business is between 1am and 9am. This would allow the trucks coming from all parts of California and Mexico (where most our items are grown) to come in without traffic and delays.”

Between the hours of from 4AM to 7AM, Shahram completes his duties in the warehouse which includes strict inspections of incoming produce, quality control for my produce going out to my clients, and maintaining constant communication with everybody. Produce is on a market system, meaning that the price of a commodity can change from minute to minute so you really have to stay on top of it.

Changing The World One Haircut At A Time

Shima 0 comments 28.09.2015

Today’s ‪#‎MCM title belongs to South Bay’s well-known hair stylist and owner of ‘Get Faded Blown and Nailed Salon’, Shafic Tayara who is making a difference in the world by providing free haircuts to the homeless when he isn’t bringing out the confidence in his own clients.

Shafic, 30, was inspired to learn about the hair business when his father bought him his first pair of clippers at the age of 18. According to Shafic, “I always liked to get creative with different things and drew a lot in high school. Friends would ask me to give them haircuts and they trusted me because of my steady hand from drawing so much.”

His ability to envision an image stimulated his desire to make “bad hair into good hair.”  He knew that he could essentially change a person’s confidence by seeing the bigger picture and using his creativity and artistic approach.

When asked what his technique is, Shafic jokingly said, “If I told you the techniques I use for my haircuts, I would have to kill you.” After some humor, he explained that his technique is to simply keep the client away from the mirror until the cut is complete.

His greatest role model is in fact a memory of his younger self at the age of 17. He recalls trying to create basketball teams without the support of any friends or family. “I was a big loner. I got cut several times and made fun of a lot,” Shafic remembers.

It was then that he realized he may not be able to control the things around him, what people say, think or do, but he was able to control two things. Those two things were his attitude and work ethic and till this day, Shafic believes that is all that has and will matter. Though many years ago, that mental freedom of his younger self still continues to inspire him when the going gets tough.

Shafic opened his own salon called, Get Faded Blown and Nailed earlier this year. His goal was to establish a business where negatives were turned into positives. He explains the meaning behind his salon’s name in that, “The name really means to get your hair faded, hair blown out, and nails done to look good.” In addition, the brand has expanded into a clothing line that was created to promote the message through his logo which is, “Hear, see, and speak no evil.” In result, it was a logo intended to block out negativity.

The brand has expanded far greater than Shafic imagined with hair products called ‘BLWN’ by FBN which is a hair care line including shampoo, conditioner, gel, wax, hair spray, and dry shampoo. Currently, nail polish is being produced and will be provided in the salon soon.

What seems to be most inspiring from Shafic’s career growth was that prior to opening his salon, he cut hair from his very own house- in his garage. Understanding the importance of branding, Shafic invested in a van that many people in the South Bay have seen.

He bought a van, wrapped it black and put his FBN logo on it. He knew that ultimately he would make back his money, so he went fully in. His bold risk was well worth it and his van is now a South Bay icon to many who know and don’t know him yet.

Outside of his busy work life, Shafic is making a difference in the world by providing free haircuts for the homeless. He realized the lack of humanity around the world and he remembers the feeling of not feeling cared or believed in. Those difficult times at a young age influenced his ability to develop a sense of putting himself in other’s shoes. He believes that energy is contagious and he hopes that through his acts, he can inspire others to be nice through acts of kindness.

Shafic believes that others can give back by having an independent mentality. “I believe if others have the mentality that they can change the world then everyone would be out on the streets doing something, not dependent on needing a partner to do so or waiting on others to lead the way,” he explains. For those who are simply too busy to help, Shafic suggests to just be kind to others.

After seeing the faces of the homeless men and women, Shafic feels the most impact. He explains that he always gives the mirror for them to see after he is finished and the appreciation in their faces mean a lot more than money. For Shafic, “Smiles stick to me, money doesn’t.”

Thank you, Shafic for making a difference in the lives of many.

Supporting our Troops at LAX

Shima 0 comments 23.09.2015

Today’s #WCW title belongs to South Bay resident, Melissa Klassen who designates time each month to give back to the troops.

In August of 2009, Melissa was inspired to do something that would allow her to feel a sense of happiness. She knew being in a military environment would feel most like home since she grew up as an Air Force Brat. (The child of an active-duty military personnel)

 Melissa remembered the stresses that being in a military family had and this gave her an opportunity to find a way to give back to the whole family, active duty and retired. In result, Melissa decided she would volunteer with The Bob Hope USO at LAX.

The Bob Hope USO at LAX is similar to a hospitality center which provides comfort for those when traveling throughout LAX. There is a canteen (kitchen) where they provide all the comfort foods of home. As Melissa explains, “You would be amazed at how much a Peanut Butter and Jelly sandwich will make someone’s day. It seems so small but the guests are really appreciative.”

In addition, there is a front desk, where Melissa usually will work. Her duties include greeting guest, helping them make hotel arrangements, rebook flights if something was missed, locate lost luggage, hold babies and anything else to make their travel a little less stressful.

The USO also provides a place to search the web, watch TV, play video games or just get little shut- eye. Melissa expresses that, “Some are coming back from war zones and welcoming them back is priceless. Others are headed to war or leaving behind family for a remote assignment. Some are on their way to a wedding or a birth and we get to be a small part of that journey.”

The USO website explains, “In accordance with the policy of USO, Inc., we welcome active duty and reserve members of the Armed Forces, as well as dependent family members. We also welcome, on a space available basis, military retirees and their dependent family members. All must present valid military identification. Although we honor all who have served, we cannot serve all and ask that non-retiree veterans honor our mission, which since our founding in 1941, has been to serve current troops and their dependent family members.”

Melissa finds that no matter what or when she leaves her shift, she always feels great. “It is weird that donating my time does so much more for me than I feel like I give. I am pretty sure most our volunteers feel that way too. It is the weirdest feeling to be so appreciated for making a sandwich or booking a hotel when these men and women are literally putting their life on the line for us.  When they say thank you I always say “my pleasure”, and REALLY mean it,” Melissa expresses.

The Bob Hope USO at LAX is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The staff primarily consist of volunteers and one staff- center manager. The services are free for guest and through donations, the facility is able to run.

Melissa believes that one can help give back to the troops I by simply stating that you support them, doing something regularly or even annually. The USO’s Mission Statement can be foundhere.

Despite volunteering every other Wednesday from 6-10 p.m., Melissa works as an

Executive Assistant for a Real Estate Association. Melissa works with some of the top selling agents in the nation in one of the most beautiful places in the country. Melissa explains that, “I try to do at my job what I do at the USO and just make people’s day a little easier with my help and guidance.”

Thank you Melissa for being another wonderful contributor in making the South Bay a beautiful place to live.

If interested in donating to the USO, please visit the website here.

Manhattan Beach among top cities in property value growth in 2015

Shima 0 comments 22.09.2015

Its Tuesday Telegram- news brought directly to you– and according to LA County Assessor, Jeffrey Prang, Manhattan Beach was among the top cities in Los Angeles County in overall growth of property values for 2015.

Awesome!

Read all about it here.

Not Your Average Sandwich

Shima 0 comments 21.09.2015

Today’s #MCM title belongs to the South Bay’s latest hype: BreadCrumbs sandwiches, created by local residents of the South Bay.

One of your first meals in grade school was probably a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and no matter how much older you’ve become, you still crave them. There’s something unusually satisfying and comforting about a sandwich. For some, it brings them closer to home and for others, it’s the simplicity behind it.

Sandwiches have become a household staple that no matter the time or day, sound good. In an age where restaurants are constantly competing to stand out with unique flavors, outrageous presentations, and flames coming out from the plate- there remains a universal craving of sandwiches. Even the simplest made sandwiches combining a whirl of ingredients, sandwiches satisfy cravings with just one bite.

Sometimes having “just a sandwich” is what makes it so darn good, but BreadCrumbs isn’t JUSTa sandwich. That’s right- the sandwiches stand out from others because:

1.It isn’t a franchise

&

2. The sandwiches are made with the finest ingredients.

According to the creators behind BreadCrumbs Gourmet Sandwiches, “You are getting the best proteins, healthiest veggies and the right carbs to ensure you have the energy to physically and mentally keep yourself sharp and energized, all while enjoying our amazing sandwiches in the process. BreadCrumbs gourmet sandwiches are the highest quality sandwiches on the market. Every detail of our sandwiches has been well thought out for not only the taste, but the nutritional value for our customers. We spent over a year searching for the perfect bread for our sandwiches, choosing Non-GMO breads for its texture, smell and taste. Our meats are gluten free resulting in only the best from Boars Head. Our sauces are house-made and our vegetables are fresh and locally sourced. BreadCrumbs gourmet sandwiches are simply the best.”

The creators, Keivan and Garrett are both residents of the South Bay. Keivan worked many years in the restaurant industry and when finally realizing his passion was to provide gourmet sandwiches to locals, he presented the idea of a partnership with his buddy, Garrett. Immediately, Garrett was sold on the idea, trusting Keivan’s work ethic and experience in the food & beverage industry. Their foundation was simple: A business that provides delicious gourmet sandwiches to the community while giving back as much as it got from it.

BreadCrumbs is built on Quality and Service. The quality of business ranges from the cleanliness of the facility to how each sandwich is made and delivered. The sandwiches are rivaled by none as the best breads and proteins, local veggies and sauces are uniquely chosen and produced.

Keivan and Garrett agreed that simplicity is a great quality and goes a long way. In result, they’ve focused on enhancing the word simple by creating a fascinating experience with their meals.

The community inspires them and their hopes are to celebrate sharing and displaying their food for all to enjoy. They host several events including the Farmer’s Market, sell sandwiches at international market, Seaside Market in, and provide after-hour sandwiches at Hermosa Beach bars. They believe in five core values including quality, service, community, employees, and trust. Their goal is that in everything they do, these ethics are seen from the way the meat is cut to the warm smile they give customers.

To learn more about BreadCrumbs, please visit their website here.

Stop by and visit the crew every:

Tuesday: Torrance Farmer’s Market

Wednesdays: Hermosa Pier,  11-4 p.m.

Fridays: Hermosa, 11^th Street: 11-4 p.m.

Sunday: Palos Verdes Farmer’s Market

One Man’s Trash is Another’s Treasure

Shima 0 comments 16.09.2015

Trader Joe’s increases Home Appreciation

Shima 0 comments 14.09.2015

If you needed another reason to love Trader Joe’s, this is it.

According to RealtyTrac, who ran an analysis of home values, appreciation, and property taxes within U.S. zip codes discovered that homeowners near a Trader Joe’s have experienced an increase in home value.

The study was determined by comparing the home values of owners living near a Trader Joe’s versus homeowners near a Whole Foods. There was an average 40 percent increase in home values of those near Trader Joe’s and only a 34 percent appreciation of those near a Whole Foods.

The homes used for the study were based on 1.7 million homes, condos and co-ops with at least one Whole Foods store nearby but no Trader Joe’s, and 2.3 million homes, condos and co-ops with at least one Trader Joe’s in the area but no Whole Foods.

Why might the home value increase for a neighborhood close to a Trader Joe’s? Well, here are some reminders why Trader Joe’s is admired according to Yahoo Food

-All Trader Joe’s products are made from non-GMO foods, and contain no high fructose corn syrup, trans fat, artificial colors or flavors

-The first Trader Joe’s opened by a man named Joe in 1967 in Pasadena, CA.

-If you don’t like something, you can return it.

-If you want to try something before you buy it, you can do that too.

-Trader Joe’s donates leftover food to food banks, pantries, and/or soup kitchens.

-They make cookie butter.

In addition, as reported by Fooducate, “At Whole Foods Market, items are typically priced higher than similar products at Trader Joe’s.”

Although homeowners who live in a radius within a Trader Joe’s have experienced an increase in home value appreciation, it was also noted that they pay higher property taxes on average.

In conclusion, though living near a Whole Food’s or Trader Joe’s may not be considered as in depth as this study is when purchasing a home, I have one response: cookie butter.

That is all.

References contributing to this article include: Daily Breeze, RealtyTrac, Fooducate, and Yahoo Food.