Winston (23) is the intellectual philosopher of the team. One day he will create order in Asia’s chaotic traffic, but for now being able to order beers in his favorite pub will do just fine. Winston will cover the hottest business trends in today’s world and hopes that after viewing the Wallstrip video's, you will learn to pick your own Wallstreet stocks. Cody and Chad Simon: Pens
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Hovering over the spinning lathe in their family’s Torrance garage, Cody and Chad Simon whittle away at the small block of wood.
It only takes a few minutes before the sharp corners begin to disappear and the final form begins to take shape. They varnish it and slide metal pieces into place.
Another one of the hundreds of pens the pair have made is finished.
Part hobby, part business, making pens is not only a relaxing way to spend time, but also a way to make a little money. They spent their summer selling writing instruments to neighbors and save whatever money they earn for college.
“We just decided to do it,” said 15-year-old Cody, who attends South High School. “We get the lathe for free and we started selling them door to door.”
After impressing their neighbors, the duo branched out to selling them on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Displayed in a fancy case, the pens are hard to resist. Torrance Mayor Frank Scotto is an avid customer, the boys said.
They’ve learned something about human psychology along the way.
“Men like thicker pens,” said 13-year-old Chad, who attends Calle Mayor Middle School. “Women like skinnier ones.”
Photo by ChadandCody.com.