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PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
"And so with the sunshine and the great bursts of leaves growing on the trees...I had that familiar conviction that life was beginning over again with the summer."
-F. Scott Fitzgerald
Summer has a way of awakening all our senses and making the world feel new again. Step outside and you're greeted by the scent of jasmine and freshly cut grass. Listen closely and you'll hear birds singing, kids laughing, and the splash of pool water in the distance. Trees are full of green leaves, flowers are blooming, and gardens are producing their seasonal rewards. After months of wearing coats, it feels good to let the sunshine warm our skin again. Summer makes us feel lighter, freer, and more connected to life.
When I think of summer, one of the first things that comes to mind is evenings at the Hollywood Bowl. I've been fortunate to have Hollywood Bowl season tickets for more than 30 years, and it remains one of my favorite places in Southern California. There's something magical about listening to great music under the stars on a warm summer night. Opened in 1922 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Bowl is both an architectural landmark and a treasured summer tradition. If you've never been, I highly recommend it.
Summer also gives us a little more time. The days are longer, and somehow life feels a bit less rushed. This season is especially meaningful for my family. My youngest son recently graduated from college, and we'll be traveling to celebrate this important milestone together. Moments like these remind me how quickly time passes and how important it is to appreciate the people we love and the memories we create along the way.
It's also been important to watch both of my sons continue building their futures and pursuing their goals. As a parent, there is great satisfaction in seeing your children grow into capable, hardworking adults and begin new chapters of their lives.
What are your plans this summer? What old "coats" are you shedding this season?
Whether you're traveling, spending time with family, tackling a home project, or simply enjoying a quieter pace, I hope this season gives you an opportunity to recharge and appreciate the community around you.
As always, we put a little of ourselves into this newsletter, and I hope you find it enjoyable, informative, and fun to read. Our team is working in--and for--your community every day, and we never lose sight of the fact that this is the place you call home. When you see us around the property please say hello. And if there's something we can do for you--or something we can do better--we'd love to hear from you.
In the meantime, take time to enjoy the summer season. Gather with family and friends, take time for yourself, or simply slow down and enjoy a quiet evening.
We always enjoy hearing from you. If you have a question, idea, or topic you'd like us to explore, simply click the "Comments" link below.
Enjoy your summer. Make time for the people, places, and experiences that bring you joy. Before we know it, another season will be upon us.
-David
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DID YOU KNOW?
INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT
THE 4TH OF JULY
Three presidents were born on the 4th of July - John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and James Monroe. Adams and Jefferson, once friends, became rivals after the election of 1800, but they repaired their friendship in 1812. Strangely, both died on the exact same day in 1826, on the 4th of July, within hours of each other, exactly 50 years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Both thought the other had survived but John Adams passed away first. His final words were, "Thomas Jefferson survives." Apparently Thomas Jefferson wasn't as concerned. His final words were, "Is it the Fourth?"
The names of the 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence were withheld from the public for six months. If the revolution had failed, their treasonable act would have resulted in their execution.
In 1778, while fighting the American Revolutionary War, George Washington ordered a double ration of rum for all his soldiers to celebrate the second anniversary of Independence Day.
Americans consume roughly 150,000,000 hot dogs on the 4th of July - enough to stretch from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C. more than 5 times!
"America" by Ray Charles is the most played song on the 4th of July.
HAPPY 250TH BIRTHDAY, AMERICA!
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VANTACA HOME
YOUR COMMUNITY AT YOUR FINGERTIPS
Introducing Vantaca Home, your new go-to app for effortless community management. View account balances, account history, sign up for AutoPay, easily submit and track maintenance or support tickets; secure your spots for community facilities--all with just a few taps!
Available for both IOS and Android devices, Vantaca Home makes it easier than ever to stay connected with your neighbors and your management team.
Download the Vantaca Home app today--stay informed and get things done. It doesn't get easier than that!
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PARTNERS' BOOK CLUB
THE OBSTACLE IS THE WAY
by Ryan Holiday
This book teaches readers how to transform challenges and adversity into opportunities for growth and success.
-Kimberly
LADY TREMAINE
by Rachel Hochhauser
My favorite fairy tale as a child was "Cinderella". Recently, I was searching for a book to read and came across Reese Witherspoon's Book Club. "Lady Tremaine" was one of her picks. When I read that it picks up where "Cinderella" left off, I had to read it. I have to tell you, it took me on a ride that was so surprising and satisfying that I read it twice - something I do regularly with books I love because the nuances of a story show themselves more clearly. I highly recommend this book as it will take you on a journey you never would have dreamed of for Cinderella.
-Candice
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SUMMER RECIPES
Quick and Delish!
CHICKEN ON THE GRILL
(Cindy)
Marinate your chicken in olive oil and Trader Joe's taco seasoning.
Throw it on the grill.
That's it!
Easy peasy!
GRILLED MARINATED VEGGIES
(Cindy)
Red and white onions, sliced
Bell peppers, chunked
Mushrooms, whole or halved
Marinate veggies together in olive oil, fresh garlic, red chile pepper,
and smoked paprika.
Pop on the grill
using a veggie basket or skewers
and cook until done.
Do these sound like the recipes of someone who doesn't like to cook?
Cindy said she doesn't like to cook - but with these yummy recipes, we're not sure we believe her!
FRESH TOMATO SANDWICHES
(Candice)
Fresh Heirloom Tomatoes, sliced
Fresh Basil, chopped
Olive Oil, to drizzle
Mayonnaise (1/2 to 1 cup)*
Fresh Squeezed Garlic (2-3 cloves)*
Horseradish (1 Tbsp.)*
Salt & Pepper (to taste)
Rustic Baguette (cut in half lengthwise)
*Amounts depend on how many sandwiches you're making and
how spicy you like it.
In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, garlic, horseradish, salt and pepper (feel free to adjust mayo and horseradish to your liking). Spread this deliciousness on your baguette, top with a thick slice of tomato, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle salt & pepper to taste, then top with basil. Serve open- faced. You're welcome!
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WELCOME
TO OUR NEW COMMUNITIES
- Cedarhill Estates
- Monterey Bay Square
- Pacific Plaza Monterey Park
- Pacific Plaza Monterey Park Master
- Walnut Crossing
WE LOOK FORWARD TO SERVING
YOUR COMMUNITY!
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INSURANCE TIPS
for
HOMEOWNERS AND BOARDS
HOMEOWNERS
1) Make sure you have insurance. Remember, you're an owner, not a renter. If you own a condominium or townhome, it is your resonsibility to maintain insurance on the interior and contents of your unit. The HOA carries a master insurance policy, but homeowners are still responsible for maintaining their own insurance coverage for personal property, personal liability, and portions of their unit that may not be covered by the HOA's policy. Most times, when damage occurs inside a unit, it is the homeowner's responsibility to pay for the repair. If you're not insured, this could become a very costly, unplanned expense.
2) Review your deductibles. There is generally an inverse relationship between your deductible and your premium. Opting for a higher deductible lowers your monthly premium, while a lower deductible means higher monthly payments.
3) Consider Loss Assessment Coverage. Many condominium owners are unaware that they can be assessed a portion of certain losses incurred by the association. Loss Assessment Coverage may help protect you if the HOA levies a covered assessment against unit owners.
BOARDS:
Keeping your HOA dues artifically low is short-sighted and can often create severe financial distress in the long-term. While low dues may make Boards popular in the short-term, they often lead to structural, legal, and financial challenges for the association. Read your reserve study and follow the recommendations set forth. This will reduce the need for a special assessment in the future. Ultimately, a healthy reserve account means fewer headaches for both the Board and homeowners when the unexpected occurs. Plan, plan, plan!
BOARDS AND HOMEOWNERS:
Whether you live in a single-family home and are responsible for your own electrical panel, or live in a condominium or townhome where the HOA is responsible, if your electrical panel is over 40 years old, you need to replace it. Particular attention should be given to Federal Pacific (FPE), Zinsco, Stab-Lok, and Challenger panels, which many insurance carriers consider higher risk due to their loss history and potential safety concerns. More and more insurers are declining coverage, requiring replacement, or imposing underwriting restrictions on properties with these outdated electrical systems. Invest in improving the property rather than paying higher insurance premiums due to avoidable underwriting concerns.
Pamela de Armas, Owner/Broker
Silicon Beach Insurance
(310) 745-0191
www.siliconbeachinsurance.net
Thank you, Pamela...very sage advice!
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SONGS OF THE SUMMER 2026
(we have three!)
Mary BTS "Arirang"
Candice Harry Styles "American Girls"
Din Little Big Town "Summer Fever"
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OUR PARTNERS FAMILY CONTINUES TO GROW!
INTRODUCING OUR NEW EMPLOYEES
Hyejin Won, Portfolio Manager - Hyejin has a strong background in property management, finance, and technology and a commitment to customer service, kindness, respect, and integrity--perfect attributes for taking care of the homeowners in her communities. Hyejin recently got married and, in her off-hours, she and her husband love to travel. A few weeks ago they enjoyed a quick getaway to Las Vegas where Hyejin learned how to play Blackjack - and WON! Hyejin also loves to cook and her specialties are healthy, low carb, protein-based dishes. Sounds delicious!
Justin Chea, Onsite Manager - Justin's experience is diverse and includes property management, hospitality, and entrepreneurship. As an entrepreneur, he has a unique understanding of the importance of taking ownership of everything he does--it's second nature for him to look at things from the customer's point of view--and he has a strong sense of service. Outside of work, you'll find his interests are as diverse as his experience. Justin loves to cook (Italian and Korean specialties are favorites); he's developed an interest in baking (a sourdough starter!), and he loves music (hip hop, rap, country) and movies (Marvel universe, comedy, and Korean and Chinese dramas). As a first-time father, his daughter is the most important thing in his life, "Nothing will stop me from reaching my goal because my goal is to give my daughter a good life".
Fatima Escobar, Assistant Community Manager - Fatima is new to the HOA industry but her background in retail and theme parks gives her one-of-a-kind knowledge in how to work with a variety of personalities --which is perfect for a career in the HOA industry! As an assistant community manager, Fatima supports her managers, works with our vendors, and assists our homeowners. In her personal time, Fatima enjoys spending time with her two kittens - a Russian Grey and a Tuxedo - and her family. Her hobbies include editing videos taken at family events or random clips from shows or movies. She loves going on hikes in the Palos Verdes area and she's a self-proclaimed 'kid person' - she loves teaching kids the life lessons and words of wisdom that were passed down to her from her Mom and her Aunt.
Kaye Bancale, Customer Service - Kaye is mom to a daughter in junior high, which, on its own, keeps her very busy; but, when she has some free time, she enjoys riding her motorcycle (she even purchased a motorcycle before she had a license to drive it!) When she's at home, Kaye enjoys re-watching favorite shows like "Game of Thrones" (3 times), "House of The Dragon", and "Grey's Anatomy" (again and again). She's also a fan of the Taylor Sheridan Universe and is enjoying his latest iteration "Dutton Ranch" starring Beth and Rip, as well as "Landman" and "Lioness". Kaye also loves to travel to any island destination - with her most favorite being Boracay (known to have the most beautiful beaches in the world - she's been 3 times!). Next island on her list is Japan!
Olga Guinayon, Accounts Payable Specialist - Olga has a bachelor's degree in IT but she's interested in many other subjects, including accounting and education. She is a teacher and, prior to joining Partners, she served as a police officer for eight years! She is new to the HOA industry and is grateful for a supportive team that ensures she has a firm grasp of the unique aspects of everything HOA. In her off-time, she loves spending time with her kids (she has three), enjoys table tennis (ping pong), volleyball, and enjoys just being outside, catching up with friends where they talk about life...and sometimes sing karaoke...Olga is known to belt out Carpenters songs!
Fatima Wilmaedelyn Tiking - Customer Service - Fatima goes by the name "Happy" which matches her personality--she's friendly, outgoing, and easy to get along with--and perfectly suited to perform the role of Customer Service Representative. Besides having a Bachelor's degree, Fatima is pursuing her Master's in Public Management. She loves learning and growing and, in her free time, enjoys listening to podcasts and reading self-improvement e-books over binge-watching movies. She describes herself as simple, warm, and always open to new learning experiences...we agree!
HYEJIN, JUSTIN, FATIMA E, KAYE, OLGA, AND FATIMA W...WELCOME TO THE TEAM!
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3RD ANNUAL BOARD MEMBER APPRECIATION & IN-FOCATIONAL EVENT
To all of our Board members who attended, thank you for your continued volunteerism and love for your community. We enjoyed spending the day with you!
To our amazing speakers: Pamela de Armas of Silicon Beach Insurance, Damian Esparza of SmartProperty Living Reserve Studies, and Lisa Tashjian, Esq. of Beaumont Tashjian, thank you for taking the time to educate and inform all of us.
To our Board members who were unable to join us, we're already planning next year's event...so stay tuned! We promise, it will be well worth your time!
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SURE COULD USE A LITTLE GOOD NEWS...
Kaye - I'm thrilled I'm only three pounds away from my weight loss goal. The first thing I'm going to do when I reach my goal is reward myself with a new handbag!
Hyejin - I recently went to Las Vegas and the first time I played blackjack, I won $100!
Mary - I will be helping with the FIFA World Cup 2026 this summer! "It's going to be wild, but an experience of a lifetime!" And we look forward to hearing all about it!
Candice - my favorite band, The Doobie Brothers, will be at the Hollywood Bowl in August and I will be there! They're opening for Santana, who is also great...but for me, it's all about The Doobie Brothers!
Fatima E - I'm going to see "La La Land At The Greek" with a live orchestra and jazz band.
Din - Summer has finally arrived and I'm looking forward to spending more time outdoors with family and friends and taking advantage of the longer days.
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SUMMER TIPS
FOR REAL LIFE
Water your outdoor plants/grass in the early morning hours. California will always be drought-prone and watering early will reduce evaporation...saving you precious dollars and water!
Fireworks are hard on our pets. Please remember to be considerate of your four-legged neighbors.
Sunblock. Don't forget to protect your skin!
Mosquitoes. 1) Did you know that Rubbing Alcohol kills the itch? 2) Don't forget to eliminate standing water wherever you can - it's a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
Electricity. If you keep your AC at an even temp (between 75-78 degrees) and use your fan, it'll help reduce your electric bills.
Hydrate. Remember to drink water!
Seniors. If you have older neighbors, check in on them every once in awhile and say hi.
"People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."
-Maya Angelou
Unplug and enjoy. Summer always seems to fly by, so take advantage of the longer days, spend time with family and friends, and create memories that will last long after the season is over.
Summer. Enjoy it. Bring your happiness!
All fantastic tips - thanks!
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MY FAVORITE TEEN-AGE
SUMMER MEMORY
Vacationing at my cousins house - we'd go to the beach every day!
Olga
Cheer Camp at UC Santa Barbara for four years. There was a competition at the end of each day and there was always a themed night - it was so much fun! Oh - and a Lazy River anywhere!
Mary
Playing in the Santa Ana River, which was behind my house, with my friends; and just enjoying being outdoors.
Justin
The nostalgia of the season. Seeing kids after they've finished up their school year enjoying their summer break, sleeping late, and hanging out with their friends. I loved that time when I was a teenager and I loved hanging out with my cousins.
Fatima E
My teenage years were very "American Graffiti". On a Friday and Saturday night, my girlfriends and I loved cruising Magnolia and flirting with all the boys!
Candice
Going to Costa Rica to see my grandparents and enjoying the beach with my cousins. We would see lizards, tadpoles, and monkeys; we would hike and run around with horses; we would go to the movies but, because they would have Spanish subtitles, I couldn't hear the English words when people laughed before the punchline, so I had to read it in Spanish and not listen to the words. These summers were freeing and wonderful!
Priscilla
Family trips to Six Flags, Disneyland, and Knott's Berry Farm - they were practically in our backyard so we were lucky to visit often during the summer. As a teenager, finally being tall and brave enough to ride all the big roller coasters and scary rides was a thrill. Even better was spending those days with my cousins and friends from camp - laughing, making memories, and trying to convince each other to go on the biggest rides one more time.
Din
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WHAT WE'RE STREAMING NOW...
"DUTTON RANCH"
On HBO, starring Cole Hauser (Rip) and Kelly Reilly (Beth), this is a spin-off of the wildly popular "Yellowstone" series on Paramount +. It took one episode for me to be wowed and it's wonderfully entertaining. The love story between Rip and Beth is still hot and strong and Beth still has her spunk - everything that made all of us fall in love with Rip and Beth in the first place is still there!
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SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT...
BOARDS:
1) Clear communication and consistency make a tremendous difference. When goals, expectations, and priorities are clearly defined, managers are better equipped to serve your community effectively and efficiently.
2) Your neighbors voted you in and trust that you are looking out for everyone's best interest.
HOMEOWNERS:
1) Community management works best as a partnership. Staying informed, communicating concerns respectfully, and getting involved when possible, helps build a stronger, more connected community for everyone.
2) Want to make a difference? Join a committee and improve and protect your investment!
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CORPORATE OFFICE
1111 Corporate Center Drive
Suite 204
Monterey Park
(626) 529-3918
Brea Office
135 South College
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GENERAL QUESTIONS?
Email us at:
admin@partnerscm.com
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