17th Annual LA's BEST Brunch Tribute Book

PUTTING KIDS FIRSTLA’s BEST 17TH ANNUAL FAMILY BRUNCH

PLATINUM

Nickelodeon congratulates LA’s BEST and fellow honorees — Best Buy Geek Squad Summer Academy and Miguel Melendez.

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Welcome to the 17th Annual LA’s BEST Family Brunch

PUTTING KIDS FIRSTHonoring

BEST BUY GEEK SQUAD SUMMER ACADEMYRecipient of the Community Partner Award

MIGUEL MELENDEZRecipient of the Distinguished Alumnus Award

NICKELODEONRecipient of the Children’s Champion Award

21 LA’s BEST STUDENTS Winners of the citywide writing and art contest,

“How LA’s BEST Makes Me Feel Special”

SUNDAY, JUNE 3, 2012

THE BEVERLY HILTON Beverly Hills Ballroom

Beverly Hills, California

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CONTENTS

Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

About LA’s BEST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Letter from Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Brunch Supporters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Student Writing & Art Contest Winners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Community Partner Award Recipient . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Distinguished Alumnus Award Recipient. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Children’s Champion Award Recipient . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Host, Presenters & Student Performers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Gold Sponsors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Silver Sponsors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Bronze Sponsors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Acknowledgments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

About the Brunch & Special Thanks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

LA’s BEST Vision, Mission & Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

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BRUNCH PROGRAMWELCOME

Michaela Pereira, Host Marvin Suomi, Chair, LA’s BEST Board of Directors

PERFORMANCE King Jr. Dance Team

WRITING & ART CONTEST WINNERS“How LA’s BEST Makes Me Feel Special”

BRUNCH SERVED

COMMUNITY PARTNER AWARDBest Buy Geek Squad Summer Academy

Presented by Rich DeMuro

DISTINGUISHED ALUMNUS AWARDMiguel Melendez

Presented by Antonio Cué

CHILDREN’S CHAMPION AWARDNickelodeon

SPECIAL GUEST PERFORMANCE Carly Smithson

ACKNOWLEDGMENTSCarla Sanger, President & CEO, LA’s BEST

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BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chair – Marvin J. Suomi Vice Chair – Mary Odell CFO – Robert L. WickeThe Honorable Richard Alatorre Garrett Q. Bland Alice Desobry BowensPamela BuffettJimmie I. ChoChristopher D. Dusseault Marlyn M. GatesDorothy M. Gibbons-WhiteSharon Graves Robert V. GrazianoRuss HageyAmy Moynihan HeywardAllan K. JonasGerald L. KatellRick KersenbrockRichard S. Kline Nigel Lythgoe Melanie Marconi Carmen MochGary W. Park David L. PaulsonSharon Harroun Peirce Tracy Rafter The Honorable Richard J. Riordan Cristina Rose June Sale Nancy Sanders

Carla Sanger Dean Schramm Carmel B. Sella Reva Shakkottai Tom Shapiro Robert D. Shipp Candy SpellingNeil StilesDavid TraversBarry B. Waldo Martin J. Wolff

ADVISORY BOARD

Chair – Alice Desobry BowensVice Chair – Trudi FergusonBryant Alexander, Ph.D. Marilyn BrownRichard S. Cheung, D.C. Bill CogginsCheryl A. Cruz, Ph.D.Kristen DeLeoRaymond Ealy Lucy Esparza Ray GonzalesSweet Alice HarrisHelen HartelL. Spencer HumphreyAndrea KannikeAnn Reiss LaneDr. Peter McAllisterNancy RamirezDoris Roberts James Rosser, Ph.D.

Lois Saffian June Sale Carla SangerMarilyn F. SolomonVirginia Victorin Deborah Villar Martha Watson Barbara Yaroslavsky

BEST FRIENDS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chair – Melanie MarconiVice Chair – Amber Holley MeliusRob CarlinerDavid CottermanKristen DeLeoChris ErroJack FluorDavid FreedmanMary FribergJeremy GibbsReed Harris IIJordan KayeJennifer LinMallory MaskeJulia MichelsonTian MuAmani RobertsPaula Rodgers, M.D.Stefanie SchwartzAnthony SlaterDavid Travers

LA’s BEST AFTER SCHOOL ENRICHMENT PROGRAM

LA’s BEST (Better Educated Students for Tomorrow) is a nationally recognized after school enrichment program established by Mayor Tom Bradley in 1988 as a unique partnership among the Mayor’s Office/City of Los Angeles, the Los Angeles Unified School District, the Beyond the Bell Branch, and the private sector.

LA’s BEST After School Enrichment Program provides a safe haven for children ages 5 to 12 at 186 elementary school sites in Los Angeles’ most economically challenged neighborhoods. The program currently serves 28,000 students every school day from the time the last bell rings until 6 p.m., at no cost to parents.

To learn more about LA’s BEST, please call 213-978-0801 or visit us on the Web at www.lasbest.org. You can also find us online at www.facebook.com/lasbest, www.twitter.com/lasbest and www.youtube.com/lasbestafterschool.

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June 3, 2012

Dear Friends:

On behalf of the City of Los Angeles, it is my pleasure to welcome all guests to

the 17th Annual Family Brunch hosted by LA’s BEST.

For nearly a quarter of a century, LA’s BEST has kept children in Los Angeles’

at-risk neighborhoods safe and engaged during the critical after-school hours

each day. By providing supervised education, enrichment, and recreation

programs to our City’s children, LA’s BEST has helped to secure a happier and

healthier future for the next generation of Angelenos. I commend LA’s BEST for

building a legacy of stronger, safer communities.

I would also like to thank all of you present today for your commitment to such a

worthy cause. During my tenure as Mayor, I have seen LA’s BEST expand to

186 sites in and around Los Angeles. Your support will help to provide peace of

mind for our City’s hard-working parents and caregivers, and ensure brighter

prospects for our City’s youngest residents.

I extend my best wishes for a memorable celebration and future success.

Very truly yours,

ANTONIO R. VILLARAIGOSA

Mayor

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HONORARY BRUNCH COMMITTEE

Elizabeth BanksAntonio CuéDanny DeVitoArnie KleinerGeorge LopezLu ParkerRhea PerlmanSinbadSusan SullivanBlair H. TaylorMayor Antonio VillaraigosaLynne Wasserman

EVENT CHAIR

Mary Odell

HOST COMMITTEE

Pamela BuffettMarlyn GatesRobert GrazianoDwayne HealyRick KersenbrockMelanie MarconiTian MuGary ParkTracy Rafter David Travers

VIP RECEPTION SPONSOR

Garrett Bland, J.P. Morgan

PLATINUM SPONSORS

NickelodeonTargetThe Wasserman Foundation

GOLD SPONSORS

The Rebecca Susan Buffett FoundationMattel, Inc.Occidental Petroleum Corporation

SILVER SPONSORS

Danny DeVito & Rhea PerlmanThe Walt Disney CompanyElla Fitzgerald Charitable FoundationThe Gas CompanyAmy & Andy HeywardKaiser PermanenteNigel Lythgoe J.P. Morgan ChaseMary & Glen OdellShipp Family FoundationMariclare & Marvin Suomi The Wallis FoundationWells FargoJay Wintrob/SunAmerica Financial GroupDonna & Martin J. WolffWorld Duty Free Group

BRONZE SPONSORS

Arey Jones Educational SolutionsElizabeth BanksAmbassador Frank & Kathy BaxterMarilyn BrownAnne & Kirk DouglasFedEx CorporationFound Animals FoundationDorothy Gibbons-White, Esq.Gibson DunnRuss Hagey and Bain & CompanyBetty & Fred Hayman IMPOWER, Inc.Northern TrustRustic Canyon PartnersNancy & Barry SandersVilla Dolce Gelato

BRUNCH SUPPORTERS

HONOREES & PRESENTERS

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Each year in conjunction with the Annual Family Brunch, LA’s BEST holds a creative writing and art contest open to all LA’s BEST students. The contest theme varies from year to year, but a focus on the students’ lives is always at the core. This year, LA’s BEST children submitted creative writing and art pieces on the theme “How LA’s BEST Makes Me Feel Special.” Twenty-one winning students were selected from a field of more than 1,000 entries from 137 school sites. These award-winning children were invited to attend the Brunch, along with two guests. LA’s BEST thanks all the corporate sponsors and individual donors who are hosting these very special guests today. Congratulations to the 21 winners for 2012!

ALICIA AQUINO

Grade K, Magnolia Avenue

MACKENZIE BOUTE

Grade 4, Gault

GEORGIA CARIAS

Grade 5, Stonehurst Avenue

JOSE COLON

Grade 6, 2nd Street

NATALY ESCOBAR

Grade 5, Figueroa Street

STEVEN ESTRADA

Grade K, 135th Street

JACOB FLORES

Grade 5, Bright

LINDA GARCIA

Grade 4, NEW Canoga Park

MATIAS GARCIA

Grade K, Maurice Sendak

SARNIA GHANBARI

Grade 3, Canoga Park

MYNOR MARROQUIN

Grade 4, Arminta

MELANIE OROZCO

Grade 5, Esperanza

DENISE PEREZ

Grade 5, Latona Avenue

SERGIO RENTERIA

Grade 5, Weigand Avenue

CARLOS RIVERA

Grade 4, Broadous

ADAN VILLALBA

Grade K, Magnolia Avenue

AMARIA WATERS

Grade 2, 135th Street

KENYA WYNN

Grade 4, Stanley Mosk

LILY YUAN

Grade 4, Bushnell Way

JON JAIRO ZARATE

Grade 5, Esperanza

JOHN ZIMBARDI–LE MONS

Grade 3, Valley View

STUDENT WRITING & ART CONTEST WINNERS

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Geek Squad Summer Academy was created by Moira Hardek, a female Geek Squad Agent, in 2006 with the intent to inspire more females to enter the field of technology. The first Geek Squad Summer Academy launched in 2007 and by 2011 the program reached more than 10,000 middle- and high-school level girls and boys across the United States.

Geek Squad Summer Academy is a community- sponsored program of Best Buy, a leading multi- channel global retailer and developer of tech-nology products and services. Geek Squad Summer Academy partners with local nonprofit organizations to teach students in a fun, inter-active learning environment about the latest technology in classes such as PC Hardware, Digital Photography, Programming, Connected World, and Digital Music.

Since 2009, LA’s BEST has partnered with Geek Squad Summer Academy to provide their only program geared toward elementary-aged children. Each year, Geek Squad Agents provide hands-on instruction to LA’s BEST students in digital photography, music, animation, and video. In addition, Geek Squad employees help students learn about PC hardware and how a computer functions by taking apart and reconstructing computer parts. More than 400 LA’s BEST students and their families have been served by Geek Squad Summer Academy at four LA’s BEST sites since the partnership began. Additionally, Geek Squad volunteers have been instrumental in providing guidance and expertise in program development for LA’s BEST in the area of digital learning.

Accepting the award on behalf of Geek Squad Summer Academy is Moira Hardek. Hardek began her career with Best Buy in 2003 as an Occasional/ Seasonal Technician in Crestwood, IL and was an original rollout Double Agent for the Geek Squad in 2004.

In 2006, Hardek moved to the Best Buy Corporate Headquarters in Minnesota. She piloted the first ever Summer Academy in 2007 at her former high school, Mother McAuley Liberal Arts High School in Chicago, IL.

In 2008, Hardek became the official Project Coordinator of Geek Squad Summer Academy as it was rolled out nationwide with 12 camps in 10 cities. That same year, the Summer Academy won the Best Buy Chairman’s Innovation Award. In 2011, Hardek launched and became the Senior Manager of Geek Squad Academy, which included Summer Academy and several other projects. That same year, Hardek celebrated a new partnership with the White House Joining Forces Initiative.

Hardek attended Miami University in Oxford, OH and studied Systems Analysis and Zoology. She currently lives in Minneapolis, MN with her partner Brianne, a child advocacy attorney, and their dog Max and two cats, Snoopy and Linus.

In her spare time, she is an avid gamer, a certified SCUBA instructor who loves to dive, and thoroughly enjoys travelling. Her favorite technology “toy” at the moment is her GoPro Hero II camera.

COMMUNITY PARTNER AWARD

Summer Academy participants

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Miguel Melendez, an LA’s BEST alumnus, is currently a sportswriter at the Pasadena Star-News and contributing writer for Fox Sports Deportes.

After moving to his third elementary school in four years, Melendez found a sense of belonging when he joined LA’s BEST at Sierra Park in Lincoln Heights. It was there that he found himself surrounded by kids who strived for a brighter future. Melendez credits LA’s BEST with giving him role models, structure, and physical, mental and emotional support.

Moving around Lincoln Heights, El Sereno, Alhambra and elsewhere in Los Angeles, Melendez knew that his gang- and drug-laden surroundings had the potential to make him “just another statistic.” However, in the after school program, Melendez found himself forced to abandon his comfort zone

and explore such activities as gymnastics and playing the trombone. Melendez believes LA’s BEST helped to “reinvent my vision of what I wanted my life to become, and success became my only option.”

Melendez began his journalism career at 17 as a correspondent for the San Gabriel Valley Tribune for three years before landing a job as a freelance writer at the Los Angeles Times. He accepted an offer at The Orange County Register where he covered Major League Soccer for four seasons before being promoted to report on the Lakers, Angels and Dodgers. Melendez has also written for the L.A. Daily News, The Associated Press and The Boston Globe.

DISTINGUISHED ALUMNUS AWARD

MIGUEL MELENDEZ

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Nickelodeon, now in its 33rd year, is the number one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The company includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, online, recreation, books and feature films. Nickelodeon’s U.S. television network is seen in more than 100 million households and has been the number one–rated basic cable network for 17 consecutive years.

Nickelodeon believes its responsibility to kids extends beyond offering quality entertainment on its multiple-platforms. The network has a strong pro-social legacy and provides tools and information to empower kids to take action on social issues that impact them, their families and their communities. The Big Help campaign is Nickelodeon’s multi-platform initiative that includes a Web site, a grants program and a grass roots component in partnership with leading nonprofit and community partners that bring the campaign to life in cities and towns across the country. The Big Help connects kids to their passions by taking part in Big Help Actions that positively impact the world around them. To date, kids have taken more than 10,000,000 Actions.

Nickelodeon employees have donated numerous volunteer hours with LA’s BEST during Worldwide Day of Play and ViaCommunity Day events. Nickelodeon has also provided LA’s BEST students with opportunities to attend the Kids’ Choice Awards and HALO Awards shows as well as providing program support through Brunch sponsorship and the Big Green Apple Grant.

Accepting the Children’s Champion Award for Nickelodeon is Paula Kaplan, Executive Vice President, Talent and West Coast General Manager, Nickelodeon/MTVN Kids and Family Group.

Ms. Kaplan oversees talent for all of the divisions of Nickelodeon/MTVN Kids and Family Group, as well as talent development and music. She is a key member of the team building Nickelodeon’s music agenda, spearheading talent development and A&R efforts for the company’s music-related initiatives.

Additionally, as head of West Coast Operations for Nickelodeon, Ms. Kaplan coordinates closely with all divisions of the company and serves as the primary point person for Nickelodeon in Los Angeles.

An 18-year veteran of Nickelodeon, Ms. Kaplan started its Los Angeles Talent Department in 1996. She has been the driving force behind raising Nickelodeon’s corporate profile within the Hollywood talent community and building Nickelodeon’s Kids’ Choice Awards into a premiere event. Ms. Kaplan is also an executive producer of the show.

A graduate of Northwestern University with a degree in Communications Studies, Ms. Kaplan lives in Los Angeles with her husband and two daughters. She currently sits on the Advisory Board of Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, as well as the Board of Directors for Melissa’s House, a housing facility for adults with mental illness.

CHILDREN’S CHAMPION AWARD

Paula Kaplan

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Michaela Pereira has been working in television since 1993. In 2004, Pereira joined the news team for Los Angeles’ KTLA-TV as co-anchor of the “KTLA Morning Show,” where she can be seen daily from 7:00–10:00 a.m. Her work there has earned multiple awards and recognitions, as well as guest roles on nationally televised programs such as “Entourage,” “Everybody Hates Chris” and “7th Heaven” as well as feature films like “Street Kings.”

Among the broadcasting recognitions she has received, Pereira has been awarded multiple Emmy awards, three Radio & TV News Association Golden Mic Awards, as well as awards for the Best Daytime News Broadcast.

Pereira is active in several community organizations throughout California including as a member of the board of LA’s BEST Friends; a member of the board of directors for the Long Beach Boys and Girls Club; an advisory board member of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA); and Co-chair of the advisory board of Optimist Youth Home.

Pereira was born in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, growing up as one of five adopted children. Her childhood is marked with diversity, as Pereira’s parents and siblings do not share the same ethnic backgrounds. This has subsequently led Pereira to be a strong advocate for the rights of children.

Rich DeMuro is the tech reporter for KTLA-TV in Los Angeles and his “Tech Report” is seen on dozens of television stations nationwide.

DeMuro has more than a decade of experience reporting and producing news for TV, radio, print and the internet. He recently hosted Spike TV’s CES “All Access” show, broadcast live from Las Vegas.

Before joining KTLA, DeMuro was the technology reporter for KCBS/KCAL-TV in Los Angeles and also served as editor of the technology websites Techmeme and CNET, including hosting his show “The Queue.”

DeMuro often lends his tech expertise to various other media outlets. He is often heard on KFWB in Los Angeles and has appeared on G4TV, CNBC, NBC’s “Today Show,” ABC News, Fox News Channel, the BBC and more.

DeMuro was also a reporter with Channel One News, a daily newscast shown in middle and high schools nationwide. Before that, he was a reporter for network affiliates in Washington and Louisiana.

DeMuro is originally from New Jersey and graduated from the University of Southern California with a degree in Broadcast Journalism. He lives in Los Angeles with his wife and new baby boy. He spends most of his free time staring at his mobile phone.

MICHAELA PEREIRAHOST

RICH DEMUROPRESENTER

Struck by the cinematic magic of Star Wars as a tot,

Jennette McCurdy vowed to venture into an

unknown, starry sphere: showbiz. At age seven,

McCurdy convinced her family she could handle

Hollywood — and the Force was with her.

McCurdy achieved success early, securing the roles

of a young Faith Hill in the music video for “The Way

You Love Me” and of Kathie Lee Gifford’s kid on Mad

TV. Best known for her comedic portrayal of Sam on

the mega-hit Nickelodeon series iCarly, McCurdy

received a Teen Choice nomination in 2009 and took

home blimps for “Favorite TV Sidekick” at the 2011

and 2012 Kids’ Choice Awards. She currently has a

pilot in development from iCarly creator and

executive producer Dan Schneider on Nickelodeon.

She starred in Nickelodeon original TV movies Fred:

The Movie in 2010 and Best Player in 2011. Her

resume bursts with dramatic roles from CSI: Crime

Scene Investigation, Strong Medicine, Law & Order:

SVU, Judging Amy, and Close to Home.

McCurdy crossed over into comedy playing

characters on Zoey 101, Malcolm in the Middle and

the 2007 Nick TV movie The Last Day of Summer. A

singer / songwriter, McCurdy is currently working

on her debut country album. Her single “Generation

Love,” was released in 2011.

McCurdy is devoted to several charities, including

St. Jude’s Research Hospital, the Cody Waters

Foundation, Invisible Children and the Starlight

Children’s Foundation. She was raised in Garden

Grove, California and resides in Los Angeles, though

she considers Nashville her home away from home.

JENNETTE MCCURDYPRESENTER

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Principal: David BellSite Coordinator: Dominique VanceDrill Team Advisor: Cindy Sanchez

Performers: Seacrest Dixon Jamie Garcia Justice Hanes Eldica King Kirrah Lewis Allyson Pena Chelsea Pena Halie Rangel Juliana Romero Isis Soriano Ashley Zelaya-Acosta

KING JR. DANCE TEAMSTUDENT PERFORMERS

Antonio Cué Sánchez-Navarro is a lead investor (alongside partner Jorge Vergara Madrigal) of Club Deportivo Chivas USA, Major League Soccer’s Los Angeles-based club, the only Mexican-owned team in major professional sports in the United States.

Based in Los Angeles, Cué is a key investor-operator within Major League Soccer, having taken a leading role in MLS/SUM’s strategic alliances with Club Deportivo Guadalajara and the Federación Mexicana de Fútbol.

Since his arrival in Southern California to set up Chivas USA in 2004, the club has made great strides, setting the all-time standard for corporate sponsorship of an MLS club in its first two years, as well as on-field success. In addition, Chivas USA continues to provide sporting and educational opportunities to thousands of young people through Chivas USA’s Soccer Academies, the club’s player development system and the Fundación Chivas de Corazón USA, the team’s own 501(c)3 non-profit organization.

With an avid passion for all sports, Cué has a special interest in soccer and the ways in which the sport can foster a sense of community and provide opportunities for children, while playing an integral part in the education process and bridging gaps between groups and cultures. Born in Mexico City, Cué currently resides in Bel Air, California, with his wife Carla and their two sons, Antonio Jr. and Emilio.

ANTONIO CUE SANCHEZ-NAVARROPRESENTER

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SPONSOR TRIBUTES

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The Rebecca Susan Buffett Foundation congratulates LA’s BEST for their extraordinary work with young children in Los Angeles, California.

GOLD

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Mattel is proud to partner together with LA’s BEST to make a meaningful difference one child at a time.

GOLD

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Congratulations on 24 years of enriching the lives of schoolchildren in Los Angeles. We’re energized to celebrate with LA’s BEST.

GOLD

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SILVER

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Congratulations Nickelodeon, Best Buy Geek Squad Summer Academy, Miguel Melendez and LA’s BEST for 24 great ones.

Love,

— Danny & Rhea DANNY DEVITO & RHEA PERLMAN

SILVER

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Disney is proud to support LA’s BEST. ©

SILVER

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The Ella Fitzgerald Charitable Foundation is thrilled to keep on “Swingin’ It” with LA’s BEST.

www.ellafitzgeraldfoundation.org

ELLA FITZGERALD CHARITABLE FOUNDATION

SILVER

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The Gas Company applauds LA’s BEST for its outstanding work and for giving back such positive energy to Southern California. Congratulations to this year’s honorees: Miguel Melendez, Best Buy Geek Squad Summer Academy and Nickelodeon. We wish LA’s BEST continued success.

SILVER

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Our thanks to LA’s BEST for always putting kids first. We are proud to support the difference you make in so many kids’ lives.

— Amy & Andy Heyward

SILVER

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We believe in a healthy future.

At Kaiser Permanente, our commitment to well-being goes beyond health care. We’re also committed to improving the communities we serve. That’s why we support LA’s BEST. Together we can help make our community a better place for us all.

SILVER

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Congratulations to LA’s BEST’s 2012 Family Brunch honorees. Keep up the great work!

— Nigel

SILVER

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“ One of the important tasks of growing is the discovery of uniqueness: the discovery of ‘who I am’ in each of us— of ‘who I am’ in relation to all those whom I meet.” — Fred Rogers

Thank you LA’s BEST for being there to help kids discover their value. MARY & GLEN ODELL

SILVER

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Investing in LA’s BEST means investing in 28,000 children and the future of the City of Los Angeles. Congratulations and thank you to the honorees for supporting their work. SHIPP FAMILY FOUNDATION

SILVER

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We commend LA’s BEST for valuing the education, engagement and growth of the whole child. MARICLARE & MARVIN SUOMI

SILVER

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Jeff and Cecilia Glassman and the Wallis Foundation are proud supporters of LA’s BEST. WALLIS FOUNDATION

SILVER

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SunAmerica Financial Group sends its sincere congratulations to LA’s BEST on 24 years of providing essential after school programs for Los Angeles youth. And congratulations to today’s awardees — Nickelodeon, the Best Buy Geek Squad Summer Academy, Miguel Melendez and the 21 LA’s BEST Students — for their contributions to the community.

— Jay Wintrob

SILVER

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As long as we have LA’s BEST, there will be bright futures for the children of Los Angeles. DONNA & MARTIN J. WOLFF

SILVER

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LA’s BEST, you truly are the best!

We thank and honor you for the tremendous difference you make in the lives of the children and families in our communities. We are so proud of the work you do!

— World Duty Free Group and its local partners: CMS Hospitality, Contreras Sweet Enterprises and BIC Group

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SILVER

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“LA’s BEST makes me feel special because the staff always pushes me and helps me study to get 100% on my tests at school.”

— James, Grade 3

BRONZE

Arey Jones Educational Solutions would like to applaud LA’s BEST for their commitment to education and record of success!

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“LA’s BEST make me feel special, because I feel like a star whenever we perform in the holidays.”

— Kimberly, Grade 4

BRONZE

Warmest wishes and congratulations to this year’s honorees—

Nickelodeon

Best Buy Geek Squad Summer Academy

Miguel Melendez

Thank you for Putting Kids First and making LA’s BEST the best it can be. ELIZABETH BANKS

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“LA’s BEST makes me feel safe, happy, and intelligent.”

—Isabelle, Grade 5

BRONZE

We are pleased to support the work of LA’s BEST. AMBASSADOR FRANK & KATHY BAXTER

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“LA’s BEST and all the kids are like a family to me and it makes me feel very special.”

— Jasmine, Grade 5

BRONZE

Dear Carla and Debe and LA’s BEST staff,

You’ve given so many children the opportunity for success and pride in their lives. You are changing the world one child at a time.

Thank you. MARILYN BROWN

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“If you ever need help or inspiration, go to LA’s BEST.”

— Elizabeth, Grade 4

BRONZE

Congratulations to LA’s BEST and all of its wonderful supporters for improving the lives of children in Los Angeles! We admire your commitment to our future generations — they are the leaders of tomorrow. ANNE & KIRK DOUGLAS

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“LA’s BEST is my world!” — Micah, Grade 3

BRONZE

FedEx is proud to support LA’s BEST and all those who strive to improve the lives of those around us and the many places we call home.

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“LA’s BEST makes me feel special because they are there for me every step of the way.”

— Destiny, Grade 5

BRONZE

The Found Animals Foundation is proud to support the success of LA’s BEST—changing the future of Los Angeles one child at a time. Their dedication to supporting responsible pet ownership serves as inspiration to the next generation. Congratulations!

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After school is our cause.

Dorothy M. Gibbons-White, Esq. Family Law

Trusts and Estates

“LA’s BEST makes me feel special because I am safe in there.”

— Samantha, Grade 5

BRONZE

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“LA’s BEST is the place that gives you a shot at what you never thought you could do.”

— Angela, Grade 5

BRONZE

Gibson Dunn and the Dusseault Family congratulate LA’s BEST for its wonderful work providing a safe and enriching after school environment for the children of Los Angeles.

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“When it’s time to go home from LA’s BEST, I never want to go. That’s how special LA’s BEST is.”

— Aaron, Grade 4

BRONZE

We are honored to join in the celebration today recognizing Nickelodeon, Best Buy Geek Squad Summer Academy, Miguel Melendez, and the 21 writing and art students. Thank you all for “Putting Kids First.”

And thanks to LA’s BEST for being the FIRST among few equals in making a difference in the lives of so many…congratulations to all!

— Russ Hagey

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“I love LA’s BEST and it LOVES ME!”

— Teyana, Grade 5

BRONZE

LA’s BEST,

Continue to be the BEST!

Congratulations! BETTY & FRED HAYMAN

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BRONZE

“LA’s BEST makes sure that you do all your homework. ALL of it! Do you hear me?”

— Christian, Grade 5

Indisputable! LA’s BEST leaders, teachers, and kids make our world a better place. Keep shining your light!

Happy hugs,

— Hannah, Hailey, and Tracy Rafter IMPOWER, INC.

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Bob Graziano and Northern Trust are proud to support the vital work of LA’s BEST. Congratulations to today’s honorees Miguel Melendez, Nickelodeon and the Best Buy Geek Squad Summer Academy.

“Doing sports is fun and I love going to competitions; they make me feel like a champion.”

— Alex, Grade 3

BRONZE

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“I always look forward to LA’s BEST; I count all the minutes until I go.”

— Hailey, Grade 4

BRONZE

Rustic Canyon is proud to support the kids of LA’s BEST!

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“I feel like a flower when I am in LA’s BEST, because I am growing.”

— Alicia, Grade K

BRONZE

NANCY & BARRY SANDERS

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“LA’s BEST makes me feel special because it makes me feel like I’m at the top of the world. I always think of all the fun stuff we do and just think how lucky I am to be in the program.”

— Ashley, Grade 5

BRONZE

Bravo LA’s BEST students! Keep up the great work!

www.LoveGelato.com

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19 Entertainment Inc. is proud to support LA’s BEST and congratulates this year’s honorees.

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LA’s BEST…the best work being done for children in Los Angeles. Congratulations!

— Katell Properties, LLC

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Paramount Pictures proudly supports LA’s BEST and warmly congratulates our colleagues at Nickelodeon and all of today’s honorees.

“ LA’s BEST lets me participate in field trips and that makes me feel really special because I don’t get many opportunities like that outside of school.”

— Jon, Grade 5

“ LA’s BEST makes kids smile… Since I have started LA’s BEST I have communicated with more people and have done better in school.”

— Yaneli, Grade 5

Congratulations to LA’s BEST for 24 years of excellence!

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DFS North America and its partners salute LA’s BEST and the 2012 Family Brunch Honorees.

“ I believe that LA’s BEST makes me special because they make us good people for society.”

— Chirath, Grade 3

“ What I like most about LA’s BEST is that we are a team and we always take care of each other.”

— Valerie, Grade 4

Children are the hope of tomorrow and the future of today. Thanks to LA’s BEST for investing in that future.

— Barry Waldo

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Event HostMichaela Pereira

Award PresentersAntonio Cué Rich DeMuro

Children’s Play AreaNickelodeon

Special Guest Performance Carly Smithson Nigel Lythgoe

LA’s BEST PerformersKing Jr. Dance Team

The Beverly Hilton Paul Dreher Don Woods

Writing & Art Contest JudgesJune Sale Laurie Sale Nancy Casalara Sarina Simon

NickelodeonDavid Bruson Lori Harris Stefanie Schwartz Jean Margaret Smith

Office of the Mayor

Event ProductionMark Flaisher

Program PhotographyBen Gibbs

Event PhotographyBen Gibbs Howard Pasamanick

Centerpieces Mark N. Laskowski

Awards Downtown Framing Outlet

Invitation, Book and Multimedia DesignDISTINC

PrintingWeber Printing Company, Inc.

Thank you to LA’s BEST Board of Directors and Advisory Board, LA’s BEST Friends, LA’s BEST Operations and Corporate staff, and LA’s BEST volunteers.

SPECIAL THANKS AND CREDITS

ABOUT THE LA’S BEST ANNUAL FAMILY BRUNCH

The Annual Family Brunch originated in 1996 as a unique fundraising event emphasizing the philosophies of LA’s BEST. The Brunch salutes the importance of family and provides an opportunity for LA’s BEST to honor those in our community who exemplify the child-centered values of our organization and enrich the lives of Los Angeles’ most vulnerable young people.

Past honorees include the Amateur Athletic Foundation, the Amgen Foundation, Bain & Company, Elizabeth Banks, Binney Smith, Mayor Tom Bradley, Jamie Lee Curtis, Baron Davis, Anne & Kirk Douglas, Dreamworks SKG, Andy Garcia, Monty Hall, Chick Hearn, David Henrie, The Home Depot, Kaiser Permanente, Kraft Foods, George Lopez, Mattel, Inc., Peter Murrieta, Nederlander Organization and the Pantages Theater, Rhea Perlman, Doris Roberts, Mayor Richard J. Riordan, John Ritter, Scholastic, Inc., Target Stores, Usher Raymond IV, Variety, Lynne Wasserman, Forest and Keisha Whitaker, and Henry Winkler. In addition, the organization has honored 350 LA’s BEST children and their families.

www.lasbest.org

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All children need a safe place to be after school with caring, responsible adults and engaging activities that connect each child to his/her school, family and community.

The mission of LA’s BEST is to provide a safe and supervised after school education, enrichment and recreation program for elementary school children ages 5 to 12 in the City of Los Angeles.

VISION

MISSION

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Nothing we do is as important as the effect it has on a child.

Engaging activities are seen as vehicles for creating values, building skills and solidifying peer and adult relationships.

Children are viewed as individuals to be developed, not problems to be solved.

Children should be involved in choosing how, when, in what and with whom to be engaged.

When we listen for understanding, everyone learns—children and adults alike.

VALUES

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Thank you for putting kids first and supporting a brighter future

for children in Los Angeles!

PLATINUM

Target is pleased to sponsor LA’s BEST Annual Family Brunch. Congratulations to the staff of LA’s BEST and its 2012 honorees.

Target is on track to give $1 billion to support education by the end of 2015, so schools and students in your community have what they need to succeed.

By shopping at Target, you help us donate 5% of our income to support education, the arts, social services and volunteerism. That adds up to $3 million per week for our communities.

PLATINUM

17th Annual LA's BEST Brunch Tribute Book

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Transcript of 17th Annual LA's BEST Brunch Tribute Book