About a month ago, I had the privilege of attending a truly meaningful event at the ArtCenter College of Design's Mullin Transportation Design Center in Pasadena. It was a powerful evening of community and connection, centered around a fundraiser supporting wildfire recovery efforts after the Eaton Canyon fires — a natural disaster that impacted many, including beloved local businesses and members of the ArtCenter community.
The event was created and organized by ISS A/S and Guckenheimer, and brought together artists, chefs, and supporters to raise over $100,000 for rebuilding efforts. It featured both silent and live auctions, all with the purpose of helping those affected get back on their feet.
At the heart of the evening was an unforgettable culinary experience led by three incredible women: Chef Amanda Freitag (@chefamandaf), known from Chopped and Iron Chef America; Chef Paola Guasp, owner of @amarakitchen; and Ms. Barbara Shay, owner of @thelittleredhencoffeeshop. Their food wasn’t just delicious — it carried the spirit of restoration and resilience, created with so much care and intention.
The energy in the room was heartfelt and reflective. We were reminded of the idea that out of destruction, transformation can occur — a concept echoed in the reflections shared by speakers that evening.
One of the most impactful moments of the night was seeing how many people came together to support not just a cause, but each other. The generosity of @ikeausa, who committed to re-furnishing workspaces lost in the fires, was a powerful example of corporate giving done right.

While it may have taken me a minute to post this, the impact of that night still resonates. It was more than a fundraiser — it was a celebration of resilience, the power of community, and the healing force of shared experience.
To everyone who contributed, showed up, or helped organize: thank you. It was an honor to be there.
— DJ ShanLynn
@shanlynnmusic
@prismdjs

