News Archives 2025

West Coast Customs Founder Is Selling Off a Bunch of Really West Coast Customs-Looking Cars
(The Drive, April 22, 2025)
An assortment of West Coast Customs builds will be open for bidding next month through Mecum Auctions. The five customized rides are from the personal collection of WCC founder Ryan Friedlinghaus, and all proceeds will be donated to charity.

WCC and Mecum have teamed up before, previously joining forces to raise funds for Operation Mend, a healthcare system collaborative established to treat severely wounded Iraq and Afghanistan veterans. Offered during the 2011 Dallas auction was a 2011 Chevrolet Camaro convertible decked out in a blend of camouflage colors. With no reserve, the final hammer price was $333,000.

UC Spotlight: March 2025
(UCnet, March 12, 2025)
UC Spotlight honors workplaces, teams and individual staff members that make UC a great place to work.

Jo Sornborger shared an overview of UCLA Health Operation Mend, an organization that offers free psychological and physical specialty care to post-9/11 veterans and their caregivers. 

Actress Ruta Lee Reveals How She Plans to Celebrate Her 90th Birthday: ‘I’ve Chosen to Do My Show’
(Closer Weekly, March 7, 2025)
As her 90th birthday approaches, Ruta remains as funny, vibrant and engaging as ever. The actress, dancer and author, best known for her roles in 1954’s Seven Brides for Seven Brothers and 1957’s Witness for the Prosecution, has big plans for her celebration

The only way to approach any birthday after 21 is to work,” she says. “I’ve chosen to do my show as a benefit for The Thalians.” It’s only fitting, as Ruta has been involved with the charity organization since its inception.

Chris Berardo Reveals His Long-Anticipated New Album 'Wilder All The Time'
(Broadway World Music, January 21, 2025, and February 28, 2025)
Acclaimed Connecticut-based singer songwriter Chris Berardo has released his long-awaited upcoming Americana album Wilder All The Time via Blue Élan Records.

Recently Berardo was featured on the Blue Élan compilation Operation Mend: Hope 2 which was released earlier this year and is available on CD and digitally on DSPs.

Inspired by the amazing work done by UCLA Health Operation Mend, Operation Mend: Hope 2 endeavors to raise awareness for this very important cause – a program dedicated to providing free specialized medical and psychological care for our nation’s post-9/11 warriors injured in the line of duty, and their caregivers.

Jamie Horowitz Champions Veterans' Causes with Advocacy and Impactful Programming
(CEO Today, January 20, 2025)
Jamie Horowitz is the President and co-founder of Omaha Productions and is best known for his work producing groundbreaking sports content. However, he is also a decades-long supporter of our armed service members and veterans. He has worked closely with veterans organizations like American Corporate Partners and Operation Mend, and he served on the advisory board for Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA).

Jamie Horowitz continues to demonstrate his commitment to veterans by spearheading regular fundraisers. He has also made veteran support a pillar of Omaha Productions.

Phil Scotti: The Heartbeat Behind P.J. Clarke’s Enduring Legacy
(Total Food Service, January 14, 2025)
P.J. Clarke’s is more than just a restaurant; it’s a living piece of history that embodies New York’s vibrant culture. For decades, the name has been synonymous with hospitality, community, and timeless charm.

At the helm of this iconic brand is Phil Scotti, a Marine veteran turned restaurateur, whose leadership has transformed P.J. Clarke’s into a beacon of authenticity in a constantly changing city.