The 123rd Annual Rose Parade

For the first time in five years, Colorado Boulevard didn't smell like roses on January 1st. Because of the Tournament of Roses' "Never on Sunday" rule, float fans in Pasadena had to wait an extra 24 hours to see the Tournament of Roses' spectacle for just the 18th time in the parade's 123 year history on Monday, January 2nd.

But for spectators in person and on television around the globe, the pageantry was well worth the wait. The world saw 91 entries, which included 43 floats, 20 equestrian units and 22 marching bands representing 10 states and four foreign countries, all traveling on the 5 1/2 mile route in pleasant weather on Colorado Boulevard right past Rusnak/Pasadena and Rusnak Volvo.

Rusnak Jaguar Pasadena Supports Miss California USA 2012

At one of the year's most exciting live events, a star-studded panel of judges chose Miss Hoag Hospital USA, Natalie Pack as MISS CALIFORNIA USA^® 2012 at the sold out McCallum Theatre in Palm Desert. With over 400 contestants competing for the prestigious title of MISS CALIFORNIA USA and MISS CALIFORNIA TEEN USA 2012, the pageant had the most participants for any state in the 62 year history of Donald Trump's MISS USA^® and MISS UNIVERSE^® organization.

Pack, a 22 year-old California native from Rancho Palos Verdes made her first appearance in the California pageant system. Her title, Miss Hoag Hospital was chosen because she is an intern at the hospital and pursuing a medical career. Currently, she is a junior at UC Irvine and is on the Dean's List.

The MISS CALIFORNIA USA and MISS CALIFORNIA TEEN USA pageants are judged by well-known celebrities and respected industry professionals on three main categories: interview, swimsuit and evening gown. All contestants are also reviewed on vital judging criteria including: character, poise, confidence and personality. Pack, the new MISS CALIFORNIA USA 2012 winner will go on to compete in the MISS USA pageant, the precursor to the MISS UNIVERSE pageant.

Hosted by former MISS USA 2003, Susie Castillo, this year's judges included Joey Maalouf ("The Rachel Zoe Project"), Dulce Candy (YouTube Fashion & Beauty Guru/ Social Media Icon), Christopher Mannor (Style Director at Beauty Entertainment Magazine), Elizabeth Rusnak Arizmendi (V.P. Rusnak Auto Group), Annie Roberts (Casting Director for E! Entertainment), Brehan Fitgerald (Executive Director of Feature Talent at 20th Century Fox Filmed Entertainment), Brian Worley (Co-Owner of YourBASH! Event Production), Justin Killion (V.P. Development with Original Productions), Lori Montoya (Owner & Co-Founder of Rain Cosmetics), Mark Harris (Co-Founder, WOW! Creations Media), Meg Day (Director of Women's Division for Vision Los Angeles), Ric Enriquez (Head of Casting for CONAN on TBS), Rich Orosco (General Manager, LA Matadors), Ronald Jason Palmieri (Celebrity & Entertainment Attorney), Stewart Goldman (Executive V.P. of Chinese Laundry Shoes and Accessories), Ty Griffin (Producer, "The Celebrity Apprentice", "The Glee Project", "Fashion Star").

Miss Orange County Teen USA, Alexa Jones was crowned MISS CALIFORNIA TEEN USA^® 2012 earlier in the evening.

Rusnak Jaguar Pasadena was a proud sponsor of this event.

Rusnak Auto Goup Supports the 113th Annual Golden Dragon Parade

​In celebrating over one hundred years of tradition, the Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Los Angeles presented the 113th Annual Golden Dragon Parade. With over thousands and thousands of individuals lining the parade route and thousands viewing the telecast this year, this colorful celebration along North Broadway in Chinatown has become the premiere cultural event in the Southern California Asian-American Community.

Since the mid-1980's, the Golden Dragon Parade has expanded to include almost two dozen floats, multiple marching bands, government officials, various dignitaries, entertainers, local business leaders and cultural groups. The parade's theme emphasizes ethnic diversity, Chinese Culture and exposure to Chinese-American businesses. The parade continues to be a rich and diverse experience for Angelenos of all ages and ethnicities.

​The day of the Lunar New Year is the most celebrated holiday of the year for nearly 1.5 million persons of Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese descent in Southern California. It is celebrated with colorful festivals, parades, and most importantly, large family gatherings. It is also a time when ancestors are fondly remembered and families give thanks for their blessings. Red packets of money ("Lai See" or "Hung Bao") and firecrackers add fun and excitement to the Chinese New Year celebration.

For the past ten years, the Rusnak Auto Group has been a proud sponsor of the Chinatown Golden Dragon Parade. Both breathtaking and beautiful, the show was designed to please the whole family. For more information visit www.chinatownla.com.

Major Donors to "Road to Emerald City" Honored By Hillsides

Hillsides, a children's charity serving children and families living in Los Angeles County, honored major donors at this year's annual benefit, "Road to Emerald City," sponsor reception. To give thanks for their support and generosity, Pasadena resident and event chair Cathy Brennan, and Hillsides CEO Joseph M. Costa addressed the children's charity guests.

Held at Noor in Paseo Colorado, Robert Shahnazarian, the owner, was on hand to greet all guests while they savored hand passed appetizers that included wild mushroom roulades with oven-dried tomato aioli, beef empanadas, crispy fried shrimp with Asian dipping sauce, and chicken satay with sesame peanut sauce. An assortment of traditional cheeses were display along with water crackers, roasted nuts, grapes and dried fruit. A dessert table of assorted French pastries, cakes, and fresh seasonal fruits delighted everyone's palate while savoring ONX wine, which was donated by Don and Sally Clark.

Rusnak Auto Group CEO Paul Rusnak, Cathy Brennan and Robert Shahnazarian, owner of Noor

The much-anticipated annual benefit, "Road to Emerald City," will be held on Saturday, February 25, 2012, beginning at 6:00 p.m. Chaired by Pasadena resident Cathy Brennan, also a Hillsides Guild member, the annual benefit is expected to raise monies for Hillsides' programs and services for vulnerable children, youth and families. The theme "Road to Emerald City" was chosen because in the Wizard of Oz, the Tin Man, the Scarecrow and the Cowardly Lion represent three universal fears: fear of neglect, fear of unworthiness and fear that the world is unsafe.

"Together with Dorothy, they follow the yellow brick road in search of getting back home while traversing roadblocks. It reminds me of the vulnerable children and families at Hillsides, many of whom face the same fears and who need courage, heart, caring and to be told they are worthy individuals with great brains," said Brennan. "I feel the road finally leads them to Hillsides, its own equivalent of the Emerald City, where although their individual and family journeys may be difficult, it is with support from Hillsides staff that they are able to find safety and hope."

Held at the California Club, a private club in downtown Los Angeles, the event is action-packed with many unique and exceptional auction items to delight all guests. While perusing the auction displays and placing bids, guests will sip on the evening's signature drink and enjoy several hors d'oeuvres.

"With the right tools, guidance and care, children and family members alike will each experience courage, heart and wisdom. Families, with support from Hillsides staff, follow their own path to create a safe home for them and their children," said Joseph Costa, Hillsides chief executive officer.

Ryan Herren, Ryan Fridborg and Brian Metcalfe

For the 20th consecutive year, Fritz Coleman, weathercaster for KNBC-4 and honorary chairman of the benefit, will serve as master of ceremonies and celebrity auctioneer.

Other event highlights scheduled include live auction, silent auction opportunity drawings, and, for the first time, an emerald draw, complemented by entertainment throughout the evening.

"We are so appreciative to its donors who consistently support the work we do to help restore hope to these children and families," said Costa, "The demand for services is great so I am encouraged by everyone's support of its event and their desire to help bring care and restoration into the lives of those we serve."

Major Sponsors in attendance included Bolton & Company Insurance brokers Ryan Fridborg and Brian Metcalfe, Susan Noce, Marge and Sherm Telleen, Don and Sally Clark, Clara Maarse and Hank Maarse of Jacob Maarse Florists joined by Ana Maarse, Hank's wife, Paul Rusnak of Rusnak Auto Group, Bank of the West representatives Jill Meeks and James Canepa, John and Juli Miller, Debbe and Spike Booth, Hillsides CEO Joseph M. Costa, Henri and Donna Ford, Patty M. McAllister, David and Holly Davis, Mary Dee Hacker, Tonetta Conner of Harrington Group, Michael and Ellen Hatch of The Sterling Group, Ruth Kokka, Mark Martinez and Dee Fisher, John and Barbara Poer, Sarah Shelton, Lyn Spector, Mel and Cindy Trousdale, Carol Watkins and Barbara Robison. To learn more about the upcoming annual event and auction items, visit www.Hillsides.org. Individuals wishing to reserve a ticket at $250 can call (323) 255-9005 or visit www.Hillsides.org. Sponsorships are also still available.

Rusnak Supports The Make-A-Wish Foundation^® of Los Angeles' Twilight Open House

Rusnak Supports "All In" Casino Night Fundraiser

Friday, February 10, 2012
6:00pm – 10:00pm

Shakespeare Club of Pasadena
171 South Grand Avenue Pasadena, CA 91105

Test your luck at the Texas Hold'em and Bingo Tournaments!

First Prize for Texas Hold'em Tournament:
Corum Buckingham Men's Timepiece

First Prize for Bingo Tournament:
Amazon Kindle

Grand Prizes include:
Trip for Two to Anywhere Jet Blue Flies with Ritz Carlton Hotel Stay Santa Barbara Getaway and Custom-designed clothing by The Shirt Tale

This event promises to be an exciting, fun filled evening, along with Black Jack, Roulette, Craps and Poker. Guests will also have the opportunity to try their luck at the Texas Hold'em Tournament and/or Bingo Tournament. Join us for live games, raffles, music, prizes and a V.I.P. / Celebrity Poker Exhibition!

For more information about Rosemary Children's Services visit: www.rosmarychildren.org or call (626) 844-3033 ext. 211.

Rusnak Supports Methodist Hospital Foundation Mardi Gras 2012

The Mardi Gras Committee at Methodist Hospital Foundation Invites You to Attend the 17th Annual Fat Tuesday Celebration honoring Kenneth Wogensen, MD.

Proceeds raised will benefit the stroke program at Methodist Hospital.

Tuesday, February 21
6 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Sirona's Santa Anita Park 285 W. Huntington Drive, Arcadia

• Taste incredible cuisine from top SGV restaurants - Sip on martinis, fine wines and more
• Bid on exciting Silent Auction Opportunities
• Take part in our "Mystery Raffle Boxes"
• Dancing and more!

Limited Seating
Business or Mardi Gras attire encouraged Hospital scrubs also welcome.

For more information, call Methodist Hospital Foundation at (626) 898-8888 or email mardigras@methodisthospital.org or visit www.methodisthospital.org.

Rusnak/Arcadia Mercedes-Benz Sponsors Distinguished Speaker Series

On Tuesday, February 21st, 2012, Distinguished Speakers Series of Southern California will present Charles Krauthammer. One of the most influential opinion-makers in the country, Krauthammer challenges conventional wisdom with practically every word he writes. Unabashedly conservative, he does more than comment on the issues and policies of the day—he helps shape discussion about them. Krauthammer earned an MD from Harvard Medical School, and practiced medicine before becoming a speechwriter for Vice President Walter Mondale, and later joined The New Republic as a writer and editor. He writes a syndicated column for The Washington Post and is a contributing editor to The Weekly Standard and The New Republic. He is also a contributor to FOX News, appearing nightly on FOX's evening news programs. Rusnak/Arcadia Mercedes-Benz, an authorized Mercedes-Benz Dealership, 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.

Fifth Annual George Lopez Celebrity Golf Classic

The Fifth Annual George Lopez Celebrity Golf Tournament - Monday May 7, 2012

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Title Sponsor ($100,000)

• Three Teams of Four Players
• First 3 choices of celebrities
• Title Sponsor customized gift bag for all players
• Prominent Title Sponsor banner in registration area
• Title Sponsor recognition on all tee signs
• Hospitality Pavilion at first tee—Sponsor to provide and staff pavillion
• Title Sponsor recognition in all tournament press releases and media

Co-Sponsor ($50,000)

• Two teams of four players
• Two Celebrity Players
• Co-sponsor customized gift bags for all players
• Prominent Co-Sponsor recognition on sponsor banner
• Hospitality pavilion preferred contest hole—Sponsor to provide and staff pa villi on
• Co-Sponsor recognition in all tournament press releases and media

Platinum Sponsor ($25,000)

• One team of four players
• One Celebrity Player
• Platinum sponsor customized gift bag for all players
• Prominent Platinum Sponsor recognition on sponsor banner
• Platinum Sponsor recognition on one tee sign at the hole
• Platinum Sponsor recognition in tournament press releases and media

Dinner Sponsor ($20,000)
Lunch Sponsor ($15,000)
Cocktail Hour Sponsor ($10,000)
Breakfast Sponsor ($10,000)

• One team of four players
• Company logo/name on signage at the Breakfast, Cocktail Hour, Lunch, or Dinner Sponsored
• Company logo/name on sponsor banner
• Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Sponsor will receive recognition in tournament press releases and media

Hole Sponsor ($5,000)

• One team of four players
• One Celebrity Player
• Hole sponsor customized gift bag for all players
• Hole Sponsor recognition on sponsor banner
• Hole Sponsor recognition on one tee sign at the hole
• Hole Sponsor recognition in tournament press releases and media

Golf Cart Sponsor ($5,000)

• Company logo/name on all golf carts
• Company logo/name on all sponsor banner
• Invitation to the awards dinner after Golf
• Cart Sponsor recognition in tournament press releases and media

Driving Range Sponsor ($2,500)

• Company logo/name on signage at driving range
• Company logo/name on sponsor banner
• Invitation to the awards dinner after golf
• Driving Range Sponsor recognition in tournament press releases and media

Special Sponsorship Opportunity to Golf With George (Price Available Upon Request)

Three players will get the chance to golf with George on-on-one

Contact Linda Small • linas@georgelopez.com • (818) 954-3320 Office • (818) 957-9388 Fax

From The Rusnak Mailbox

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

Dear Ms. Rusnak:

The 22nd annual Crystal Ball 2011, "An Evening with Paul Anka" was held on October 29 at the Pasadena Convention Center Ballroom. Nearly 900 guests gathered to enjoy an evening of fine dining, exciting auctions, headline entertainment by Paul Anka and of course, plenty of dancing.

I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation for your generous support for this significant fundraising event. With your generous contribution and the involvement of many others, we were able to make this year the most successful event ever, raising a record breaking $520,000. The funds raised at this year's Crystal ball will benefit emergency services at Methodist Hospital.

On behalf of Methodist Hospital, physicians and staff, we would like to express our gratitude for your participation. We appreciate your partnership in our healthcare mission.

Sincerely,

Michael D. Driebe
President
Methodist Hospital Foundation

Elizabeth,

What a wonderful Xmas treat to open up my LA Times and see you and Melissa!

Thank you again for inviting me to your holiday party. It was great to finally meet your father. What you, your family and your company did for Melissa and her family during Season of Wishes will have an impact on them far beyond today. I also greatly appreciate what you did for me and my chapter. Between Season of Wishes and the introduction to Sotheby's, you are helping build further awareness and grant wishes in our shared community. I suspect 2012 will be a real breakthrough year for Make-A-Wish in the Pasadena area.

My best wishes to you and yours for a happy new year.

Steven Vanderpool
Vice President and
Chief Communications Officer
Make-A-Wish Foundation

Hi Liz!

Rusnak was terrific!

Elizabeth Ward

Mr. Rusnak,

As a long time customer of Rusnak/Audi, I recently purchased a new 2012 Cayenne, from your company. I wanted to thank you for your time and consideration in helping make this important purchase.

This is my fourth purchase from your company over the past ten years!

Your representatives and sales staff, Darin Glinski, Greg Austin, Marty Goodman, Keith Goldberg and Steve Ellis, have all gone out of their way to ensure that I would be satisfied with all my purchases through the years.

Again I wanted to let you know that I appreciated the help and support in this and all my purchases and thank you for the high level of customer service that has been extended to me through the years.

Sincerely,

Glenn Sorgenstein
Agoura Hills, CA

Dear Darin,

As a long time loyal Porsche owner in the Southern California, the drive to your dealership in Westlake Village was the first for me. In retrospect, I am sorry I didn't stop by sooner to purchase my other 9 Porsche cars.

What a very memorable experience it was to be able to walk into a dealership and be greeted by Marty Goodman, Sales Consultant, by name with a warm welcome. I can't tell you how many times I have visited dealerships and walked around where no one greeted me or inquired about my interests.

Let me say that as someone who is in the "customer service" business as well, Rusnak Porsche Westlake is "par excellence" when it comes to how to treat a customer. Moving forward with future purchases, I will only purchase from Rusnak Westlake and make every effort to recommend anyone I know interested in purchasing a Porsche to make the drive out to your dealership.

I have to tell you that besides enjoying the time at the dealership, having Marty introduce me to the car, manage the deal with you, and sign all papers to complete the deal, the best part of the experience was driving home on the 101 Fwy in a new car knowing that the dealership really cared about its customers and was more interested in the "person" than the "sale". A deal is not always about getting t e best "price" but also the best "experience".

All the best to you and the entire staff at Rusnak Porsche Westlake.

Sincerely,

Mark Genis
Vice President, CFO
Eventmakers

Good Afternoon Ms. Rusnak,

I want to introduce myself as the new Executive Director at the Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Los Angeles. Firstly, on behalf of our Chamber, our President Chester Chong, and the community, THANK YOU for participating in our parade again this year in celebrating the Year of The Dragon and The Golden Dragon Parade.

Thank you so much Ms. Rusnak and we look forward to having you on board again.

Nicki Ung
Executive Director
Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Los Angeles

Dear Brian Beatt (General Manager Rusnak/Arcadia),

I just wanted to take a moment and say thank you for the incredible experience my husband and I had when purchasing our new Mercedes at Rusnak/Arcadia. Specifically, Brian and Sylvia Miranda (Sales Operation Manager) were SO nice and SO accommodating. Buying a car can be a nerve-wracking experience, but at Rusnak it was simply exciting. The biggest reason for that was trust. We knew Brian and Sylvia were taking care of us, not taking advantage of us. Nothing has happened since then to change that thought either.

Thank you for everything,
Maureen Clayton