Ventura Blvd Magazine - Holiday 2015 by Moon Tide Media

Home for the Holidays: Traditions, Celebrations & Cuisine

WHERE WE LIVE

OURVE N T U RA B LV D.CO M

SIX DOLLARS

HOLIDAY 2015

Experience

TERRANEA TRADITIONS Create new family traditions in a land where holiday cheer includes poolside sunsets, cozy starlit fire pits, and gingerbread sand castles.

R E S O R T | G O L F | D I N I N G | S PA For a list of holiday events visit Terranea.com/Traditions.

Santa Photos · Winterland Decór · 100’ Christmas Tree Nightly Snowfall · Entertainment · Extended Hours Caruso Rewards Double Points · Concierge Services Nordstrom ¬ Barneys New York ¬ Tory Burch ¬ DVF ¬ Tiffany & Co. ¬ H&M XXI Forever √ Apple ¬ Sephora √ David Yurman √ Barnes & Noble

AmericanaAtBrand.com

Schott NYC √ M·A·C Cosmetics √ American Girl √ UGG® Australia √ And More!

SPANISH HARLEM ORCHESTRA Salsa Navidad with Ballet RED SAT DEC 5, 8PM

grab tein or S

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to irec eD utiv

Exe

Part of the Ford Signature Series, presented in partnership with the Ford Theatres.

Y E A C D N I L A O M R H D E T O R T A F T S O R G H PE IN T T E G T US DAVID SEDARIS SAT NOV 21, 8PM

S ’ C A P V

J E ’R E W

JOHN PIZZARELLI

Dear Mr. Sinatra, A Swinging Centennial

featuring Monica Mancini and Cheyenne Jackson

SAT DEC 12, 8PM

BOBBY McFERRIN with special guest, Taylor McFerrin

FRI JAN 29, 8PM

818-677-3000

VPACatCSUN

ValleyPerformingArtsCenter.org

Christmas Sav

Off

rist

sT ree s

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Tis the season to discover Aldik Home, LAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite Winter Wonderland for more than 60 years!

7651 Sepulveda Blvd, Van Nuys, CA

www.AldikHome.com

818.988.5970

your holiday neighborhood oasis This holiday season, stay put with all the luxury of traveling without the hassle. With seven sprawling acres, The Garland is the perfect home-away-from-home in your own neighborhood! So come grab a drink at The Front Yardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bar (might we suggest the Bourbon Trail) and settle down with us for a cool winter night. 4222 VINELAND AVE. NORTH HOLLYWOOD, CA 91602 THEFRONTYARDLA.COM 818.255.7290

@thefrontyardla

/thefrontyardla

ON VIEW AT THE SKIRBALL NOVEmBER 19, 2015–FEBRuARy 21, 2016

A new exhibition inspired by Nicholas D. Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn’s bestselling book, where you can take practical steps to bring about social change

skirball.org /a-path-appears

A PAth APPeArS: ActIoNS for A better world ANd ItS relAted ProGrAMS At the SKIrbAll culturAl ceNter Are MAde PoSSIble IN PArt by GeNerouS SuPPort froM:

2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90049 skirball.org • (310) 440-4500 FREE on-site parking; street parking strictly prohibited

The Angell Foundation Neal Baer The California Wellness Foundation Edna McConnell Clark Foundation Joan and Jerry Doren MedIA SPoNSor: 89.3 KPCC FM

Suzanne Lerner/Michael Stars Foundation The Eileen Harris Norton Foundation Sidhu-Singh Family Foundation Phoebe Snow Foundation Dick Wolf

Facial Analysis... The Art & Science of Natural Beauty “

octor, I just feel like my face is starting to look tired and I want to do something about it, but I am afraid to look like those women with big lips and cheeks, you know, like the ones on the “Housewives” TV shows. I came to see you because you treated my friend who looks great, you can’t tell that she has had anything done, she looks natural!” Natural facial rejuvenation demands natural artistic vision creating proportions, light, shadows, and highlights that are pleasing. When we look at others or ourselves, our brains are wired to analyze the proportions of a face in milliseconds, the blink of an eye! If those proportions are off we immediately conclude that the face “looks funny and unnatural.” Over 500 years ago Leonardo da Vinci defined the proper proportions of the face. There is a “Divine Ratio” that defines beauty. Da Vinci found that a simple mathematic ratio of 1 to 1.618 was found both in nature, exquisite architecture, and in beautiful faces. Did you know that, as your face ages the distance between the inner corners of your eyes never changes? By using that distance, the rest of the features of the face can be restored to beautiful youthful natural proportions. For instance, the width of your lower lip should be equal to the distance between your eyes. Your lower lip height

818-501-FACE CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR COMPLIMENTARY FACIAL ANALYSIS

should be 1.618 times larger than your upper lip height. More than lines or wrinkles, “sagging” is the “4 letter” word of the dreaded consequences of aging. From age 25 on, our facial bones lose volume resulting in less support of the overlying skin and soft tissues. Fortunately today we have the tools on our “painter’s palate” to restore our patient’s natural divine facial ratios. At your initial consultation, we ask you to bring a photo of yourself when you were 25-30 years old. We analyze your face with artistic vision and then give you a “blueprint” for rejuvenation. Fillers, neurotoxins, non-invasive devices, skin care products, and surgery are the tools that we use to rejuvenate faces of all ages for both men and women. “Doctor, what is the cost of your treatment?” Our patients come to our practice for a great natural result. You do not pay for “a syringe of filler, or units of Botox”, but rather for the extensive training, skill, expertise, care, and artistic vision and natural results provided by Dr. Persky and Dr. Sunder. We are grateful as facial plastic surgeons for the privilege of helping our patients achieve their aesthetic goals. We look forward to meeting you at the time of your complimentary facial analysis.

16311 VENTURA BOULEVARD SUITE 600 ENCINO CA, 91436 W W W. D R P E R S K Y.C O M

“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.” – Leonardo da Vinci

HOLIDAY 2015

Where We Live 18 Q & A

Leeza Gibbons 20 Great Idea

Safe Ducky 23 Wellness Report

The doctor is in 24 Pit Stops

Football viewing

26 Datebook

Fun stuff to do 28 Media

Studio City stroll 30 SEEN

Faces spotted 48 Gift Guide

Editor’s picks

25 Friendly Competition

Chili

Features

The Sauce 38 Seasonal Spices

41 Delicious Debuts

2015 best opens 44 Classic Comeback

Forman’s Tavern

Big Fish Small Pond

Chef Phillip Frankland Lee takes on Encino with Scratch|Bar & Kitchen.

Recipes & decor

Full Circle

The remarkable, nearly 50-year friendship of two showbiz vets.

46 Turkey Time

Season & smoke 66

Going Dutch

The stunning result when a couple of real estate pros focus on their own home. 74

Time Travel to Cuba

The heartfelt recollections of a father as he takes his daughter on one last trip before she heads to college.

44 Cover by

Photographer Shane O’Donnell; featuring Shelly and Aidan Greenfield in their Studio City dining room

And Then Some... 79

Real Estate Spectacular local listings

98 Last Word

Tree trials & tribulations

YOUR CHILDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FUTURE IS CLOSER THAN YOU THINK. QUITE LITERALLY. Å&#x201C;L THQVYP[` VM 0-;+0-4 MHTPSPLZ KYP]L MYVT ;[\KPV +P[` ;OLYTHU 7HRZ -UJPUV <HYaHUH ?VVKSHUK 0PSSZ HUK +HSHIHZHZ 5HRL [OL KYP]L `V\YZLSM HUK ]PZP[ K\YPUN VUL VM V\Y 7WLU 0V\ZL L]LU[Z HUK SLHYU HIV\[ V\Y YPJO K\HS J\YYPJ\SHY LK\JH[PVU [OH[ MVZ[LYZ H SV]L VM SLHYUPUN V\Y ^HYT Z\WWVY[P]L JVTT\UP[` V\Y H[OSL[PJZ HY[Z HUK [LJOUVSVN` WYVNYHTZ TK-5th Grade Open House: November 12, 2015 & January 14, 2016 Grades 6-8 Open House: November 22, 2015

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Fighting Hunger

Every Day... And donating an extra

30 Million Meals this holiday season. Bringing To the Table

BringingHopetotheTable.com

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

ART DIRECTOR

Linda Grasso

Michelle Villas EDITORIAL

Editorial Director | Darren Elms Copy Editors | Diane Garrett, Laura Watts Graphic Designers | Elena Lacey, Christine Georgiades VB’s The Sauce eNewsletter Editor | Diane Haithman

LET THE POWER OF THE SUN SAVE YOU A TON!

CONTRIBUTORS Jim Calio, Victoria Clayton, Heather David, Michael Goldman, Susan McMartin, Kara Mickelson, Karen Silver, Karen Young PHOTOGRAPHERS Tracy Breshears, Melissa Bring, Matthew Cooke, Tracy Gitnick, Shane O’Donnell, John Stahl, Lu Tapp

GROUP PUBLISHER

Jared Sayers ADVERTISING

310-897-2424 | erika@moontidemedia.com Susan Steel | 310-401-1979 | susan@moontidemedia.com Victoria Vande Vegte | 310-401-1986 | victoria@moontidemedia.com Erika Carrion |

MARKETING & OPERATIONS

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MANAGING PARTNERS

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No part of this periodical may be reproduced in any form or by any means without prior written consent from Moon Tide Media, LLC. Any and all submissions to this or any Moon Tide Media, LLC publication become the property of Moon Tide Media, LLC and may be used in any media. We reserve the right to edit. TO OUR READERS Ventura Blvd magazine welcomes your feedback to our magazine and stories. Please send your letters to: Reader Response Department, Ventura Blvd Magazine, PO Box 3760, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266. Please include your name and address and email address. Letters may be published. We reserve the right to edit. SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscribe by email: info@moontidemedia.com or phone: 310-376-7800. Subscriptions are $29 per year. 58 11th Street Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 Tel 310-376-7800 • Fax 310-376-0200 MoonTideMedia.com OurVenturaBlvd.com

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EDITOR’S LETTER | LINDA GRASSO

REAL ESTATE & MORTGAGE

Decking The Halls

Meet the finest Real Estate professionals in theValley

hat a whirlwind putting together this issue was—from racing around town selecting my favorite holiday gifts (see Editor’s Picks Gift Guide on page 48) to watching Phillip Frankland Lee stuff and grill a gigantic, whole salmon seasoned with schwarma (a spice I’d never even heard of) on a hearth at his new Scratch|Bar & Kitchen restaurant in Encino (page 54). One of my favorite parts of the magazine is the home feature in each issue. As an architecture and interior design buff, there is something almost thrilling about being able to go inside someone else’s home. The experience offers such insight into the residents—from furnishings to color palette to tchotchke, you get to know a person on a new, more intimate level. In this issue we get a peek inside the well-crafted Pennsylvania Dutch farmhousestyle home of Jeffrey and Shelly Greenfield. Both former career CPAs, they are now in the business of building and restoring homes in ways that reek of authenticity. When they moved into their Longridge Estates house, it had awesome bones; it was built by a master craftsman. So putting their “stamp” on it, as you’ll see in our colorful, eight-page feature (page 66), was really about enhancing what was already there and making it work for their family. I learned a lot of things from this story—how the painstaking and expensive process of grey-washing cabinetry can bring out the natural grain in wood, how bold “out of the box” choices (like combining metals such as brass and iron in kitchen cabinetry hardware) can add interest, and how integrating one’s heritage with accessories and accents can warm and enhance a space. When Shelly lit the menorah with her son, Aidan, we knew we had our cover. As you gather ‘round the table with loved ones and enjoy your own holiday traditions, whether here in the Valley or elsewhere, we hope your celebrations are truly wonderful. Happy Holidays,

P.S. Got an interesting story idea? Email me

at linda@moontidemedia.com.

COMING IN FEBRUARY

VENTURA BLVD, HOLIDAY 2015

ourventurablvd.com

A WORLD OF ANSWERS.

THE SHERI AND ROY P. DISNEY CENTER FOR INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE AT THE DISNEY FAMILY CANCER CENTER

Ora Karp Gordon, MD, MS Medical Director, Integrative Medicine & Cancer Genetics and Prevention Program

One in three Americans will develop cancer in their lifetime and at least 10 percent of these cancers are hereditary. For Dr. Ora Karp Gordon, knowledge is power. As the Medical Director of Integrative Medicine and Cancer Genetics and Prevention Program at the Roy & Patricia Disney Family Cancer Center, Dr. Gordon and her team know that blending the best of traditional and complementary medicine can provide a world of answers.

181 S. Buena Vista Street, Burbank, CA 91505 1-888-HEALING | providence.org/saintjoseph

WHERE WE LIVE

Mitten Mixer

The Studio City Residents Associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Winter Family Festival will be held on December 13, 1 to 4 p.m. The playground of 70 tons of snow with slides, snowball fights and snowman building attracts thousands to Beeman Park each year. For more fun events this holiday season go to page 26. PHOTOGRAPHED BY TRACY

GITNICK

WHERE WE LIVE | Q&A

Her Biggest Story Leeza Gibbons talks about her Valley-based nonprofit, what she did with her cash prize from The Apprentice and her views on Trump mid-stump. PHOTOGRAPHED BY LU

VENTURA BLVD, HOLIDAY 2015

TAPP

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Q&A | WHERE WE LIVE

story. Don’t hide it. Tell it and make it count.” Leeza’s Care Connection is the answer to that promise.

When Leeza Gibbons’ mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, “the music to my life stopped.” The TV personality, who first gained fame on Entertainment Tonight, has devoted her life to preventing that from happening to others. She established Leeza’s Care Connection to provide comprehensive, free services for people caring for a loved one with the disease. The nonprofit operates out of Providence St. Joseph’s Medical Center in Burbank. In a candid one-on-one with editorin-chief Linda Grasso, Leeza talks about her main mission and how she proved this past year that nice girls can finish first. First I’d like to know a bit about your mom and her journey. My mom was the coolest. She was my best traveling companion during my years at ET. We noticed her behavior change in her late 50s. We thought she may have just been drinking too much. We know now that she was probably self-medicating with wine (a fairly common occurrence). Her mother had the disease so I guess we should have suspectedm but we just didn’t want to face the reality that we were losing her. She was officially diagnosed at 63. At one point, you vowed to your mother to do something for people suffering from AD. She said, “Honey you’ve been a reporter for decades. Now this is your

ourventurablvd.com

Share a bit about how your organization helps caregivers. We help them navigate this difficult path and begin to answer the question: “Now what?” It doesn’t matter how much education or money you have; this cold reality affects everyone pretty much the same. We help caregivers keep moving forward with a focus on what’s left instead of what’s lost. It’s imperative that those who offer care take their oxygen first. Our aim is to empower family members to feel more competent and confident about what they have to do.

People are beginning to understand that this is MORE THAN ‘JUST FORGETTING’ people’s names and where you put your car keys.” As I know from my family’s own experience with AD, there is also a lot of guilt. Guilt is a caregiver’s constant companion. I used to feel guilty when I felt happy, guilty that I couldn’t make it better, guilty that I couldn’t move back home. Especially in the end, I wished for it to all be over for mom. Compassion Fatigue is a real condition that can take up to 10 years off the lives of caregivers. That’s why we have created a safe, supportive place where you can use tools like Zumba classes to Empowerment Support Groups to help caregivers. Share more about how you help caregivers at LCC. We meet caregivers wherever they are in the journey. Maybe they just want advice on what to do next, how to get along with family members or a list of other free services offered by the city or state. Or perhaps they need to be nourished through our classes and lectures.

Better care for the caregiver translates to better care for the care receiver. It seems like there is an increasing awareness about AD. Yes! People are beginning to understand that this is more than “just forgetting” people’s names and where you put your car keys. Still Alice and the Glen Campbell film helped. Now we need to turn up the heat on federal funding, which is shamefully behind the budgets for other diseases. It is bankrupting families; the cost of caring for an Alzheiemer’s patient is extremely high. You won The Apprentice last season. What was that experience like for you? Tough, challenging but also great fun and meaningful. They say it was “the meanest season ever.” I didn’t see it that way. I don’t mess with mean, and I can usually drop the drama and cut the crazy too. (As a fan of the show, though, I do often find those aspects of the program compelling!) But this was my year to stand for those who face a disease with courage and grace, like my mom, and those who show up to care for them, like my dad. That was my prize—telling THAT story. How much money did you win for LCC? Over $700,000! I took that money back home to where I grew up in Columbia, South Carolina, and opened a Leeza’s Care Connection in the neighborhood. Finally, in reflecting on your experiences with Trump—what are you thinking as you watch him campaigning? Whether his politics are your cup of tea or not, he has changed the game and the conversation. There is nothing about him or his life that trends toward “playing small,” and I think that kind of boldness is inspiring people. People in both parties are taking this journey and asking new and different kinds of questions. Like him as a candidate or not, you have to like that. l

HOLIDAY 2015, VENTURA BLVD

WHERE WE LIVE | GREAT IDEA

Playing It Safe As he makes his way down the Boulevard, Joshua Kasteler is not playing around.

WRITTEN BY JIM

t’s early in the morning at the Juvenile Shop on Ventura Boulevard in Sherman Oaks. A young pregnant woman approaches Joshua Kasteler, who is standing next to a shelf of kids’ toys. She asks him to test a small package containing cloth covers for a child’s seat belt. Joshua takes the package, presses a handheld X-ray machine to it, and in a few seconds he gets a readout. “It’s OK,” he tells the expectant mom. “It’s got some toxins, but they’re not above the allowable level.” Josh, 40, is the entrepreneur behind Safe Ducky, a company aimed at assessing the chemical components in children’s products. Using a couple of high-tech tools, he screens toys and other items—everything from blankets to kiddie silverware—for toxins that exceed government-mandated safety levels. The idea morphed out of his years in Asia working as a chemical engineer. He saw how easily toxins could pass through the manufacturing process and get into products, especially kids’ toys. Some of those toys end up in retail shops in the U.S., where unwitting parents buy them. The Sherman Oaks resident says he has removed hundreds of items from store shelves in and around Los Angeles. Among them:

VENTURA BLVD, HOLIDAY 2015

CALIO |

PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE

O’DONNELL

“I found a button on an item of kids clothing that had nine times the allowable level of lead,” he says. “It’s something that a baby could put in its mouth or that could touch its skin.” Here in the Valley, Joshua has worked with Linda’s Toys in Encino and the Juvenile Shop in Sherman Oaks. When a toxic product has been identified, it is removed from the store. Then he goes back to the manufacturer to see if it can solve the problem. Once all the toys in the store have been deemed safe, that store’s name gets posted on the Safe Ducky website as a guide for parents. “I’ve been here for 35 years,” says Juvenile Shop owner Lauren Logan. “When Joshua came to me with his plan to test, I thought it was a good idea. I want to know. In the business we are in, we want what is safe for babies.” Joshua recently expanded the business to include house calls. “I have to wonder about the toxins I was exposed to growing up in LA in the ‘70s and the impact it had on my health,” he says. “If we can help reduce the exposure to toxic chemicals for the current generation of kids, that will be a great thing.” To learn more about Safe Ducky, go to safeducky.com. l

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WELLNESS | WHERE WE LIVE

What’s Up Doc?

The cleansing craze, the benefits of coronary calcium scans and a way to prevent kids’ sports injuries WRITTEN BY VICTORIA

CLAYTON |

ILLUSTRATED BY CHRISTINE

GEORGIADES

From juices to soups, there seems to be a neverending supply of cleanses. Any merit to these? Everyone from Beyonce to the mailman seems to be cleansehappy. According to Ron Bahar, MD, an Encino-based gastroenterologist, cleanses are popular simply because the term “cleanse” just sounds good. Who doesn’t want to feel cleaner? But cleanses are simply a fad. “Cleanses are universally void of long-term efficacy,” says Dr. Bahar. If you lose a few pounds on a cleanse, it will be at the expense of lean body mass or hydration rather than fat. And you almost always gain back whatever you lost. But most important, according to Dr. Bahar, is that there’s no medical necessity to “cleanse” your body. That function is completed by the body’s normal physiology, free of charge. The only way to shed pounds for real is to eat sensibly and exercise.

The documentary The Widowmaker, which discusses the controversy over the coronary calcium scan, was powerful. Should I get one?

I’m a bit apprehensive about getting my kids into sports. Anything I can do to lessen the chances of injury? Matthew Bernstein, DC, a chiropractor at Elite Sports Medicine in Woodland Hills, sees about 10 kids a day with sports injuries. There’s one sport that stands out as notorious for injury: cheerleading. Seriously. “Cheerleading is extremely demanding on the body because of the tumbling and stunting,” says Dr. Bernstein. “Plus it seems that too many of the coaches and athletes—unlike, say, football—don’t seem to be adequately aware of injury risk.” That said, Dr. Bernstein admits any sport can lead to injury, especially when athletes are young and still growing. Using wraps or braces without consulting your doctor, however, is a horrible idea. “If you brace a healthy joint without cause, you’ll actually weaken it,” warns Dr. Bernstein. The best way to prevent injury is something called proprioceptive training, which improves people’s ability to sense where body parts are without looking. People with better proprioception have the strength, flexibility and balance needed to make minute adjustments that help prevent injury. Rocker boards, balance discs or kinesthetic balls all help. Kids actually like them, and many manufacturers have created products and games that make proprioceptive training fun.

So you want to get a noninvasive test that runs less than $200 (with doctor referral) and has proven to be effective in getting people to live healthier? Makes sense. “A coronary calcium scan is one of the most important tests available. It can save more lives than we save using angioplasty or bypass surgery, because prevention is always more important than treatment,” says Dr. Daniel Berman, chief of cardiac imaging and nuclear cardiology at CedarsSinai. Dr. Berman says anyone at increased risk for heart attack should consider a scan (overweight, smoke, elevated cholesterol or a family history of heart disease). He also recommends the scan for men 45+ and women 55 and older. Coronary calcium scans (“heart scans”) measure the amount of calcium in the walls of your coronary arteries, which supply your heart with blood. Elevated calcium levels indicate a higher likelihood of developing coronary artery disease. Lifestyle changes and sometimes even drugs can lower risk.

We hope you are enjoying Ventura Blvd’s health column, where we ask doctors and health pros your questions. If you have a pressing—or aching, itching, burning—question, please drop us a line at whatsupdoc@venturablvd.com.

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HOLIDAY 2015, VENTURA BLVD

WHERE WE LIVE | PIT STOPS

Fan Fare

3 great spots for cheering your favorite football team on to victory

« BEST SINGLES SPOT — Downtown Johnny’s With 11 screens (two are pull-down) visible from virtually every seat, this spacious eatery (formerly the people-watching emporium Mad Bull’s Tavern) is an excellent spot to tune in. Cozy up in a booth, sit at the large bar or near the patio. (The front of the eatery rolls up like a garage.) On NFL Sundays, take advantage of the special: any burger with fries or side salad, $10; NFL Sunday ticket games. 14649 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks « BEST APPETIZERS — Rocco’s Tavern Nosh on Italian comfort foot while hooting and hollering at this East Coast-inspired tavern with an ample number of big screens and a pleasant “everyone knows your name” atmosphere. On days of big rival and play-off games, get there early as seats go quickly. Try the popular “sizzling shrimp” appetizer; NFL Sunday ticket games. 12514 Ventura Blvd., Studio City « BEST FOR KIDS — Fresh Brother’s Pizza If you’ve got to take the kids for a lunch run but don’t want to miss tube time, head to this pizza joint tucked in a small strip mall. Twenty-two LCD screens dot virtually every bit of wall space. While the kids scarf down slices, you can stay in your gridiron daze (eight draft beers as well as wine served). Glutenfree and vegan pizzas and farm-fresh salads. 16060 Ventura Blvd., Encino

1/2 AD THIRD STREET 8350 WEST THIRD STREET LOS ANGELES, CA 90048 323.655.2285

STUDIO CITY 12059 VENTURA PLACE STUDIO CITY, CA 91604 818.201.3900

HOLIDAY GIFTS | CATERING | WWW.JOANSONTHIRD.COM

VENTURA BLVD, HOLIDAY 2015

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FRIENDLY COMPETITION | WHERE WE LIVE

Gettin’ Chili

1 GRANVILLE CAFÉ—SMOKED CHILI

Discovering the Valley’s tastiest bowl WRITTEN BY KAREN

SILVER

PHOTOGRAPHED BY TRACY

GITNICK

When the weather chills, there’s nothing better than a zesty bowl of chili. We searched high and low to determine the most delicious chili in the Valley. Our distinguished judges—all chili lovers—rated the various bowls on a scale of 1 to 10.

Granville prides itself on providing the wholesome, organic WINN ER! ingredients. Who would have every known they make a kick-ass chili? The vegetarian, gluten-free version includes black and white beans, mushrooms, eggplant and tofu. LB: Love the avocado and onion garnish. Feels light and healthy, yet it is filling and really tasty. JG: Outstanding presentation. Colorful and interesting with diverse ingredients. Chunky consistency. Didn’t love the onion rings. DJ: A colorful, south-of-the-border medley. Love the onion rings on top! Great consistency. Hearty and very much a meal. 12345 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, 818-506-7050, granvillecafe.com AVERAGE SCORE: 8.5

2 BLUE DOG BEER TAVERN—ALL AMERICAN BEEF CHILI

This hot spot is loved for its expansive menu of artisanal beers, killer burgers and laid-back, friendly vibe. LB: Traditional, hearty, and I liked that it was meatier. Great taste and the perfect thickness. Could have used more beans. JG: Good, basic chili. I like that there is a little grease along the top and that it has a meaty creaminess. DJ: Simple with only a few ingredients, mainly ground beef. Enjoyed the thick and floury consistency. 4524 Saugus Ave., Sherman Oaks, 818-990-2583, bluedogbeertavern.com AVERAGE SCORE: 7.9

3 MENDOCINO FARMS—VEGAN CHILI

GRANVILLE CAFÉ’S SMOKED CHILI

It’s called a “Sandwich Market,” but the artisan menu for locally owned Mendocino Farms includes chili made with soyrizo. LB: Smells delicious. More soup-like in consistency. Like the smoky flavor. Very good for vegetarian. Wish it were a bit thicker. JG: Peppery with a kick. Vegetarian with a meaty taste to it. Not thick enough, but it would go well with a grilled cheese. DJ: Wouldn’t have guessed it was made with soyrizo! Nice amount of spice and heat. A bit too soupy. Definitely need bread to make it more satisfying. 14141 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks, 818-205-9744, mendocinofarms.com AVERAGE SCORE: 7.3

4 CRAVE CAFÉ—VEGETARIAN CHILI

This bustling café, open 24 hours a day, always seems to have a sidewalk crowd. Maybe stick to the sandwiches? LB: I like the thickness of this chili. It’s a little bland and gravy-like. It’s OK. Not my favorite. JG: This has a blander flavor and is a bit greasy. It’s a bit chewy and could use some “kick.” DJ: This has a saucy, chewy consistency. My least favorite of the bunch. 14504 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks, 818-990-7888, cravecafeshermanoaks.com AVERAGE SCORE: 2.8

JASON GREENSPAN

Emergency Room Regional Director

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LORI BRILLER

Owner, the Grapevine Agency

D.J. JUNG

Writer (with daugher Violet)

HOLIDAY 2015, VENTURA BLVD

WHERE WE LIVE | DATEBOOK

START SPREADIN’ THE NEWS

ALL ABOARD The trolley at Americana at Brand

Holiday Festivities

Americana at Brand Come see one of the tallest Christmas trees on the West Coast, experience twice nightly “snowfall,” meet Santa without waiting in line and enjoy yuletide carols. americanaatbrand.com

Sinatra: An American Icon

Grammy Museum at LA Live This exhibit traces 100 years of Sinatra legacy, from Hoboken through superstardom. Artifacts from the Sinatra family’s personal collection, including photos, mementos and rare correspondence. Through February 15. grammymuseum.org

Reindeer Romp

LA Zoo See real reindeer and enjoy a flurry of seasonal festivities and yuletide flourishes, plus visits from Santa. Runs through January 3. Free parking. lazoo.org

through fraudulent DSS claims and the mayhem that ensues. elportaltheatrecom

December

8 Petersen Automotive Museum Now encased in an eye-catching metal, ribbon-like shell, the museum re-opens after a $125 million dollar renovation. Attractions include driving simulators, touch screens and video displays in 25 galleries. petersen.org

Of Cottages and Castles: The Art of California Faience Vessels, sculptures and items from the company’s most prestigious project—the tiles for William Randolph Hearst’s palatial San Simeon. Through April 3. pmcaonline.org 1 Isabele Allende–The Japanese Lover The best-selling author of The House of the Spirits and Daughter of Fortune discusses her latest book. skirball.org 3 Cash on Delivery A British farce that tells the story of a man who has pocketed thousands of pounds

VENTURA BLVD, HOLIDAY 2015

11 Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Motown The Troubadour Theater Company presents the parody of this holiday classic. Through January 17. falcontheatre.com That Lovin’ Feelin’ A musical biography chronicling the

Righteous Brothers’ life story and featuring the duo’s memorable songs. Through January 24. therepgroup.com

12 John Pizzarelli: Dear Mr. Sinatra Guitarist and singer John Pizzarelli, who opened for the legendary crooner, performs songs from his album dedicated to Sinatra. Accompanied by Cheyenne Jackson and Monica Mancini. valleyperformingartscenter.org 15 Woven Gold: Tapestries of Louis XIV The colorful and glittering hand-woven tapestries of Louis XIV (reigned 1643–1715), culled from within his palaces. Through May 1. getty.org

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY KEN VEEDER © CAPITOL PHOTO ARCHIVES, AND JAMIE PHAM

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HOLIDAY 2015, VENTURA BLVD

WHERE WE LIVE | MEDIA

Walk This Way

hen knee problems forced TV producer Paul Haddad to give up running, he discovered a love of walking. “Around the same time, I got a pedometer. I began to obsess over getting in my 10,000 steps a day—not so much to get in shape, but to stay in shape.” And thus was born the idea for his new book, 10,000 Steps a Day in L.A. Included in the book’s 52 walks is Paul’s favorite Valley walk: “Shades of Mayfield,” a loop of Studio City. “I spent much of my youth along the Boulevard in

Take an inspired journey through Studio City

Studio City and can chart decades of change. One thing I like about it now is that this section of the Valley is still clinging on to older landmarks while still managing to modernize—the best of both worlds,” says Paul. “I also like this walk because it’s a loop (as opposed to an up-and-back) and it has shortcuts for walkers in case they don’t want to do the entire 10,000 steps. And it has a few ‘Easter egg’ type surprises for people who may not realize there are lesser-known aspects to Studio City like the walk of fame plaques outside CBS Radford ... or the rattlesnake sculpture by the LA River.” l

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PAUL’S “SHADES OF MAYFIELD” WALK Park near the intersection of Coldwater Canyon Avenue and Moorpark Street, next to the Little Brown Church in the Valley.

1 LITTLE BROWN CHURCH IN THE VALLEY Where Ronald Reagan married Nancy Davis in 1952. Doors are open 24/7. 2 WEDDINGTON GOLF AND TENNIS A six decade-old driving range and par 3 nine-hole. Swill a milkshake in the café. 3 CBS STUDIO CENTER Built in 1928 by a silent movie producer, it is the inspiration for the name Studio City. Sidewalk plaques memorialize famous productions.

VENTURA BLVD, HOLIDAY 2015

4 DU-PAR’S RESTAURANT & BAKERY One of the few remaining places where you can still get an all-rhubarb pie. 5 “PROSPECTOR TO DIRECTOR” MURAL Charts LA history in four different vignettes. One of dozens that painter Millard Sheets created in the mid-20th century. 6 CARNEY’S A hot dog and hamburger joint housed in an old yellow Union Pacific passenger train.

7 THE SPORTSMEN’S LODGE It began as a trout-filled fishing hole in the 1880s, but during Hollywood’s Golden Age emerged as a celebrity sanctuary. 8 VALLEYHEART GREENWAY Enjoy whimsical works by local artists at this park along the LA River. The riverbank has been landscaped with native plants and trees, restoring it to its preurbanization state.

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HOLIDAY 2015, VENTURA BLVD

WHERE WE LIVE | SEEN

Flower Power

Claudine Fisher and Melissa Young Ariel Johns and Whitney Lader

The social scene was in full bloom at a party Ventura Blvd co-hosted to celebrate the opening of Fleurish at The Village at Westfield Topanga. Fleurish co-owners and Valley residents Allyson Arons and Amy Marella (the acclaimed florist behind Hidden Gardens on the Westside) greeted guests and shared the â&#x20AC;&#x153;howtoâ&#x20AC;? on their unique DIY flower bar concept. Guests nibbled on delicious eats by Lemonade and Susie Cakes and sipped a special basil and mint cocktail with Roxx vodka created just for the event.

Anna Raven, Kiersten Anderson, Kayla Kilpatrick Maryann Gueramian and Ashley Roeder

Jodi Lewis, Jane Lewis, Diane Winer, Carrie Friedman

Guest having fun at the flower bar

VENTURA BLVD, HOLIDAY 2015

Marcie Luis and Dana Delena

Fleurish owners Amy Marella and Allyson Arons

Roxy Monroy, Laura Ayala, Charna Peru

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SEEN | WHERE WE LIVE

Armie Hammer, Elizabeth Chambers, Lauren Bush

Rachel Roy, Nathan Turner, Cio Soler

Theirry Vivier and Clare Vivier

Open Table Lauren Bush hosted a Feed Supper at the Nathan Turner American Style store at The Village at Westfield Topanga. The CEO, creative director and co-founder of Feed Projects was surrounded by friends in fashion, interior design and showbiz. Larry Green, Armie Hammer, Matti Leshem, Elizabeth Chambers, Nathan Turner

PHOTOGRAPHED BY GETTY IMAGES FOR NATHAN TURNER

Molly Unger and Larry Green

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HOLIDAY 2015, VENTURA BLVD

WHERE WE LIVE | SEEN

Pavement Pounding

PHOTOGRAPHED BY ANGELA DAVES-HALEY

Exercise enthusiasts converged at the 18th annual LA Cancer Challenge, a 5K/10K walk and run that benefits pancreatic cancer research. The event is sponsored by the nonprofit Hirshberg Foundation.

Phil Kent addresses the crowd.

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VENTURA BLVD, HOLIDAY 2015

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SEEN | WHERE WE LIVE

Denise Dador

圀愀爀洀眀椀猀栀攀猀昀漀爀愀栀愀瀀瀀礀愀渀搀栀攀愀氀琀栀礀栀漀氀椀搀愀礀猀攀愀猀漀渀⸀⸀⸀ 䘀爀漀洀礀漀甀爀昀爀椀攀渀搀猀愀琀䰀漀猀䔀渀挀椀渀漀猀匀挀栀漀漀氀䘀漀爀椀渀焀甀椀爀椀攀猀Ⰰ 瀀氀攀愀猀攀挀愀氀氀㠀㄀㠀ⴀ㤀㤀 ⴀ㄀㘀漀爀攀洀愀椀氀椀渀昀漀䀀氀漀猀攀渀挀椀渀漀猀猀挀栀漀漀氀⸀漀爀最眀眀眀⸀氀漀猀攀渀挀椀渀漀猀猀挀栀漀漀氀⸀漀爀最

Michael Muhney

Allison Miller and Bryan Miller

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HOLIDAY 2015, VENTURA BLVD

WHERE WE LIVE | SEEN

Street Scapes

PHOTOGRAPHED BY STANLEY APPLEMAN AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY ZAREK

The Sherman Oaks Chamber of Commerce hosted its 25th annual Sherman Oaks Street Fair on Ventura Boulevard. With more than 200 vendors, displays and exhibits, the event attracted an estimated 100,000 people.

Dixie Canyon Elementary Singers

Maria Castaneda, Dr. Anthony Cardillo, Samantha Nay, Joelle Ramos, William Van Noll

Holiday Craft Beer Magic Harvest Your Local Scene for Lunch, Happy Hour, Dinner,

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VENTURA BLVD, HOLIDAY 2015

Your L a

“Place Where “Place Where Everybody Everybody Knows Knows Your Your Name” Name”

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SEEN | WHERE WE LIVE

Pedro Manrique, Vicki Nussbaum, Emma Daly, Alice Roth

Jose Ramirez, Josh Lasker, Ethan Drigotas, Diego Hernandez

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HOLIDAY 2015, VENTURA BLVD

THE SAUCE

Spice Whirls

Discover inventive ways to add seasonal spices to food, home and decor on the next page ...

YES, PLEASE! Waffles, infused with berries and seasoned with vanilla and cinnamon, add a holiday twist to a traditional dish.

THE SAUCE

Seasoned Greetings A handpicked blend of aromas and flavors to spice up holiday gatherings. WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY KARA

MICKELSON

ack Frost may not exactly be nipping at our nose, nor do we break out long, heavy coats. But here in SoCal we do embrace the more subtle seasonal weather changes and everything else that comes with winter. The smell of cinnamon, pine, vanilla, clove and nutmeg—scents that color the air and fill our homes with warmth and nostalgia. Here are a few holiday creations— some traditional, others unexpected—to spice up your season.

FIRESIDE CHAT Shake and pour over single rock ice cubes: 3 ounces Licor 43 Cuarentra Y Tres, 1/2 ounce mezcal, a single whole star anise and an orange peel with an embedded clove stud.

ANISE & CINNAMON SPICE WREATH Aromatic star anise wreaths look and smell enticing and also make lovely hostess gifts. Supplies: 1 6-inch mini grapevine wreath frame 1 to 1½ cups whole star anise 2 whole cinnamon sticks juniper berries, peppercorns and/or whole allspice (20 cloves) mini pinecones, two per wreath hot glue gun with glue sticks or fast-drying, multipurpose, clear-drying glue tweezers optional: ribbon, dark wood stain, mini paintbrush Line up four star anise pieces to create four even quadrants on the wreath. Glue pieces of star anise, one at a time, until each section is filled. Add cinnamon sticks in one quadrant and then add additional spices in the opposite quadrant to create asymmetrical balance. Cover any visible glue with juniper berries, allspice and cloves and paint with wood stain. Add a pretty silk or organza ribbon.

VENTURA BLVD, HOLIDAY 2015

CUSTOM CRAFTED Glycerin soaps are wonderful infused with winter spices. These were crafted from recipes provided by Klean Spa in Burbank.

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CHOCOLATE GINGERBREAD SOUFFLÉ WITH EGGNOG CRÈME ANGLAISE

THE SAUCE

Makes 6 (4-ounce) soufflés

Gingerbread and eggnog are the quintessential holiday spice blends. Combine them with chocolate, and the result is pure decadence! Gingerbread Spice Mix 1½ tablespoons ground ginger 1½ tablespoons ground cinnamon ¼ teaspoon ground cloves ¼ teaspoon ground allspice ½ teaspoon ground vanilla powder or paste pinch kosher salt 1 ⁄8 teaspoon ground white pepper 1 ⁄8 teaspoon ground black pepper Ramekin Prep Butter inside ramekins, dust with sugar. Tap out excess sugar and chill Base ⁄3 cup plus 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour 2 ounces unsalted butter 11⁄3 cup dark chocolate chips (62% cocoa), room temp or slightly melted 8 fluid ounces whole milk 1 ⁄3 cup granulated sugar 4 large egg yolks 1 tablespoon unsulfured molasses 1

Soufflé 6 large egg whites, room temp pinch cream of tartar

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Preheat oven to 400º. Combine gingerbread spices and reserve. Slowly whisk the flour into melted butter making a blonde roux paste. Cook 3 to 4 minutes without browning. Remove from heat and add chocolate chips to a warm (not hot) mixture. Stir until fully combined. Scald milk by bringing to a near boil and remove from heat. In a separate bowl, beat yolks with sugar until fluffy and pale. Slowly add a small amount of hot milk to the egg mixture and then combine the two mixtures; the idea is to prevent yolks from scrambling. Combine with roux, spices and molasses. Reserve. Can be made a day in advance. Warm over a double broiler until batter stirs easily. Whip egg whites in a clean bowl on medium until frothy. Add cream of tartar and whip until stiff peaks form. Whip ¼ of the meringue into the soufflé batter until mixed throughout. Carefully fold in the rest of the meringue. Transfer batter to a piping bag. Pipe into prepared ramekins with a circular motion. Make sure the top 1⁄8-inch of the inside rim of the ramekin is clean. Smoothe top of soufflé with a wet finger or back of a wet spoon.

Turn oven temp down to 375º after the first 3 minutes. Bake soufflés on a sheet tray on the middle rack of the oven until they rise 1 inch above rim, 12 to 15 minutes. Serve immediately with Crème Anglaise and vanilla bean ice cream or whipped cream. Note: Oven temps may vary. Place soufflés away from hot spots and resist opening the oven door till they have risen. If the soufflé is not done inside, turn the oven up 25º and reheat till they rise and are cooked thru. Eggnog Crème Anglaise: 1½ vanilla bean, cut open, beans scraped out ½ teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg 16 fluid ounces whole milk 2 ounces sugar, divided 4 large egg yolks 2 tablespoons brandy Scald milk mixture and reserve. Whisk egg yolks and sugar. Temper egg mixture with warm milk mixture. Heat until nappe, or mixture coats the back of a spoon. Strain sauce and cool over an ice bath. Add brandy to cooled mixture. Cover with plastic wrap and store in refrigerator for up to two days.

HOLIDAY 2015, VENTURA BLVD

Come early. Stay late.

Straight to the source to reveal Valley food trends!

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VENTURA BLVD, HOLIDAY 2015

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THE SAUCE

Delicious Debuts

A look back at the best Valley restaurant openings of 2015 WRITTEN BY KAREN

AUGUSTINE This cozy vintage-style wine bar with a sophisticated European vibe opened in Sherman Oaks, adding an exciting entry to the Valley landscape with a staggering selection of 75 rotating wines by the glass. Significance: It’s owned by Dustin Lancaster and Matthew Kaner (the pair behind the popular hipster spot Bar Covell in Los Feliz), in addition to Valley resident/musician David Gibbs. Plus, no wine bar in LA matches its wine list, with vintage bottles more than 100 years old. augustine winebar. com

MARADENTRO A “new-school Mexican seafood place,” this Studio City restaurant has a breezy atmosphere offering a lighter twist to traditional Mexican offerings, while the cocktail program creatively plays with mezcal and tequila. Significance: This is the second Studio City restaurant for Jesse Gomez and chef-partner Jose Acevedo, who opened the third branch of their Los Angeles restaurant, Mercado, last year. maradentrorestaurant.com

THE BELLWETHER Diners at this modern, eclectic Studio City restaurant can enjoy an open kitchen and patio sitting along with family-style sharing. Seasonal ingredients cultivate flavors from Italy, Thailand, the Middle East and more—plus an elevated cocktail menu to boot. Significance: Father’s Office veterans executive chef Ted Hopson (a Top Chef Masters alum) and beverage director Ann-Marie Verdi made their debut jump to the Valley from the Santa Monica and Culver City Father’s Office locations with an upscale neighborhood restaurant where families are welcome. thebellwetherla.com

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YOUNG

CHEESEMONGERS This truly authentic Sherman Oaks shop specializes in cut-to-order artisan and farmstead cheeses, cured meats and “cheese-centric” sandwiches. It also offers a collection of handmade and local crackers, jams, olives, chocolates, oils, nuts and other accompaniments. Significance: Owners Kia Burton and Chaz Christianson stock a carefully curated collection of domestic and global products unlike any other in the Valley—and they happily educate their customers with tastings and classes. cheesemongersofshermanoaks.com

SWEET ROSE CREAMERY This small-batch ice cream shop opened in Studio City’s Tujunga Village, the local chain’s fifth location and the first in the Valley. Housed in a vintage country cottage with patio seating, the shop scoops ice cream made from scratch with organic, seasonal ingredients sourced from local farmers markets. Significance: It’s part of the acclaimed Rustic Canyon family of Westside restaurants owned by Josh Loeb and wife Zoe Nathan. sweetrosecreamery.com

HOLIDAY 2015, VENTURA BLVD

VENTURA BLVD, HOLIDAY 2015

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HOLIDAY 2015, VENTURA BLVD

THE SAUCE

BLACK AND WHITE Family photos include Hattie (Pat) and Kenny Stieroff, owners of Toluca Hut—later renamed Pat and Kenny’s Lamp Post—at the location from the early 1940s to 1950.

Comeback of a Classic

Forman’s Tavern joins Toluca Lake’s bustling Riverside Drive restaurant scene, bringing a modern vibe along with a storied past. WRITTEN BY DIANE

HAITHMAN

T 44

VENTURA BLVD, JULY 2015

PHOTOGRAPHED BY TRACY GITNICK

he old Lucy’s 51 location has undergone quite a transition with the arrival of Forman’s Tavern, owned by the same restaurant group (ACME) behind Laurel Tavern and The Local Peasant. Lucy’s 51, occupying the space since 2006, served up live jazz and martinis (specialty: key lime) in a dark-lit, kitschy-cool bar complete with leopard print seating and a constellation of light-up frogs hopping across the ceiling. In creating a rustic atmosphere for its “signature elevated pub food,” Forman’s borrows the look of an East Coast hunting lodge, with taxidermy and historic photos on forest green walls and a friendly communal table in the center as one seating choice. While Forman’s looks East Coast, the restaurant carries with it a long and storied West Coast history. First, it’s named after General Charles Forman, founder of Toluca Lake. And from the 1950s to the 1980s, the location was home to the Money Tree, notable for serving drinks to Hollywood celebs including Dean Martin, W.C. Fields, Liza Minnelli and Frank Sinatra. Before that the location, which the Toluca Lake Chamber of Commerce tells us was owned from the 1930s to the 1980s by Moe Howard of Three Stooges fame, most likely housed the Toluca Hut restaurant, a name later changed to Pat and Kenny’s Lamp Post in honor of the couple running it.

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THE SAUCE

While the timeline remains sketchy, relatives of the Stieroffs say the couple probably operated the restaurants from the early 1940s to 1950. Pat was also known as Hattie, and she, like Kenny, was born in 1908. Fun fact about Kenny: Prior to entering the restaurant business, he was a professional roller skater who skated in the Roller Derby and managed the Hollywood Roller Bowl at Sunset and Bronson boulevards. But back to the present: Forman’s opened in late August and is winning raves for its houseground burgers. Executive chef Nick Coe employs an 801-pound smoker and tosses the meat patties on a woodfired grill; that smoker also helps produce some mighty tasty chicken wings. Creative appetizers include short rib carpaccio, roast marrowbones and the very sticky spicy-bacon caramel popcorn. Forman’s also serves small-batch whiskeys and specialty cocktails including a sophisticated old fashioned with Old Forester bourbon, Averna, Benedictine and cherry bitters, and a pineapple spicy margarita with a ring of chili pepper, which at today’s gastropubs seems to be the new alternative to salt. l 10149 Riverside Drive, Toluca Lake. Noon to 1 a.m. daily. 818-760-6900.

DIVINE BEGINNINGS Ahi ceviche with avocado garnish

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JULY 2015, VENTURA BLVD

THE SAUCE

Sultan of Smoke

Impress Thanksgiving guests with a perfectly seasoned and cooked bird. ILLUSTRATED BY CHRISTINE

GEORGIADES

o you’ve mastered the art of creating a crispy skin, and you’ve done the fancy mushroom gravy. Alex Benes, a French Culinary Institute-trained chef, mans the kitchen at Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill in Agoura Hills. Here he shares his recipe for the ultimate Thanksgiving turkey rub, as well as some tips for uniformly moist meat.

Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill’s Thanksgiving Turkey Rub Ingredients 2 teaspoons kosher salt 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 2 teaspoon dried thyme 2 teaspoon dried rosemary 1 teaspoon dried sage 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Prepare Mix all the ingredients in a bowl. Rub the cavity of the turkey with the seasonings. Lift the skin of the turkey (wherever possible) and rub the meat, especially the breasts, with the spices. Brush the entire exterior of the bird with olive oil and lemon, and then lightly apply the rub to the outside. Cook Roast a 12- to 14-pound turkey at about 325°. It takes about three hours for the bird to fully cook and reach 165°. Use a thermometer to monitor when turkey hits that internal temperature. If you are smoking the bird, you can go “low and slow” at about 250º, but 325º works well too. Tip The breast meat of the turkey—the white meat— has less fat than the dark meat and cooks faster. Get the whole bird to cook more evenly and keep the breast meat moist by putting an ice pack on the breast just before you put the turkey in the oven. Leave the ice pack on for 15 to 30 minutes. This will chill the breast meat, causing it to take longer to cook.

VENTURA BLVD, HOLIDAY 2015

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THE SAUCE | WHERE WE LIVE

HOW I SMOKE It looks a bit foreign—both throwback and futuristic—but the Big Green Egg is the tool many food connoisseurs use to smoke meat. TV chef Jeffrey Saad owns one. “When I first got it, I loaded up the beautiful, random-shaped chunks of charred wood—no briquettes in these babies!—and stoked it up to 800º+,” he says. “I gathered the family around and slid my perfectly risen pizza dough topped with goodies onto the pizza stone (a terrific optional insert). I opened it up three minutes later, and there was a pile of ashes! Got that out of my system. Now I nail a perfect, Naples-style bubbly crust every time (at 650°).” He continues, “I love the Egg for slowroasted pork butt—takes about 8 hours. It is also great for serious restaurantstyle seared steaks. I put 2-inch thick N.Y. or rib eyes on, and they get a beautiful, deep golden—1/3-inch saltand-pepper crust on the outside while maintaining a perfect, juicy medium rare center.” Jeffrey recommends the largest size Egg because it has more surface area to cook on. “I can have the lump coal stacked on one side to achieve two levels of heat,” he says. “Veggies can cook on the cooler side while the steak is charring on the hotter side.”

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JULY 2015, VENTURA BLVD

2015

Editor’s Picks

Presence

Gift List

13812 Ventura Blvd. Sherman Oaks 818-995-5799 presenceinvitationsandgifts.com

This tasteful Italian-made box, which can be monogrammed, is a charming accessory for a side table or a bedroom bureau. Italian-made keepsake box; $98 or $108 personalized See page 53 for more information.

Ventura Blvd editor-in-chief Linda Grasso shares some of her favorite holiday gifts this season. PHOTOGRAPHED BY MATTHEW

Andrei Duman Gallery

COOKE

The Village at Westfield Topanga 6316 Topanga Blvd. Woodland Hills 818-610-1289 andreidumangallery.com

Andrei Duman has visited more than 70 countries to photograph some of the world’s most stunning, remote locations. One of them is this moss-covered lava field in Southern Iceland, captured in Andrei’s photographic print “Green Hills.” A limited edition Fujiflex Crystal Archive acrylic print, contemporary frameless presentation; $1,100 to $4,700

Manya Jewelers

The Village at Westfield Topanga 6320 Topanga Canyon Blvd. Woodland Hills 818-703-6200

There is such a terrific collection at Manya—from fine jewelry to hip, edgy pieces to one-of-a-kind designs—many of which are created by the couple that owns the boutique. As you can see, I adore rose gold. It lends a certain sophistication to jewelry, whether an elegant diamond ring or a handsome Swiss watch. 18-karat rose gold ring with 1.92-karat diamonds; $16,060 rose gold watch with blue face by Edox; $1,295 See page 51 for more information.

See page 52 for more information.

Editor’s Picks Gift List

Val Surf

4810 Whitsett Ave. Valley Village 818-769-6977 valsurf.com

There is nothing that warms me up like a pair of Uggs. I love coming home and diving into my sweats and Uggs—it automatically puts me in relax mode. I’m drawn to the classic color of this pair, and the wooden buttons give it a fun, sporty vibe. Bailey Button Triplett in Chestnut (also comes in black); $219 See page 50 for more information.

Stanley Silver

310-871-4208 stanleysilver.com

The Valley-based artist Stanley Silver embodies California lifestyle and culture—from his pieces depicting iconic northern California surf spots (three are on display at San Francisco 49ers’ Levi’s Stadium) to those that capture the passion of athletes. This piece, “Bear Flag Revolt,” showcases Stanley’s unique way of using oil paint to achieve captivating texture and layering. The more you look, the more you see. Limited edition Giclee print on canvas with an edition size of 60. 32” x 48” x 2’”; $1,500

WilliamsSonoma

339 N Beverly Drive Beverly Hills 310-274-9127 williams-sonoma.com

Blue is my favorite color, so I am immediately drawn to ginger jars. This particular one, a modern take on the Ming style, is handpainted with a graceful plum blossom motif. Blue & white ginger jar with lid, 11” diameter, 11” high; $199

Oaks and Meadows

3951 Laurelgrove Ave. Studio City oaksandmeadows.com 818-505-8834

Strategically placed, Buddhas can be inspiring accents for home or garden. This teal ceramic one can add a dash of color to a room or a sense of whimsy tucked in flowerbeds. Teal ceramic Buddha; $66 See page 50 for more information.

Editor’s Picks Gift List

L.A.’s Most Complete Selection of Surf-Skate-Snow Apparel, Equipment and Accessories

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VENTURA BLVD, HOLIDAY 2015

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Big Fish Small Pond

He is the only contestant to win three of Food Network’s reality show competitions. And he competes again in this season’s Top Chef. But Phillip Frankland Lee’s biggest challenge may lie in Encino, where he is opening what he believes will be a world-class restaurant. WRITTEN BY KAREN

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YOUNG |

PHOTOGRAPHED BY LU

TAPP

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Big Fish Small Pond

“I

want to put my hometown on the dining map,” Chef Phillip Frankland Lee emphatically states, when asked why he shuttered his high-end Scratch Bar restaurant in Beverly Hills and instead is opening in the Valley. But the well-known TV chef isn’t opting for the Valley’s “restaurant row”— the well-populated stretch between Studio City and Sherman Oaks. He has taken out a lease in Encino.

TO THE GILLS Phillip stuffs a salmon with fennel and lemon before grilling.

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“A lot of chefs and restaurant buddies have told me I’m crazy and should be scared to open in Encino,” he says. “Although I may be a bit crazy [ha-ha!], I’m definitely not scared.” At 28, Phillip is fast becoming one of the most recognized chefs in the country—and he can thank his TV career for that. He will be a “cheftestant” on this season’s Top Chef, which premieres on Bravo in December. He has also appeared on and won Food Network’s Chopped, Cutthroat Kitchen and Guy’s Grocery Games. But behind the notoriety lies a serious pedigree. The bearded, tattooed culinary master is at the forefront of a generation of young chefs putting a personal stamp on innovative yet accessible cuisine. Among his accolades: He has been named in the Top 10 for “Best Young Chef in America” by San Pellegrino and as one of Zagat’s “30under-30.” And he’s worked in prominent kitchens, including Los Angeles’ Hatfield’s and Providence. Scratch|Bar & Kitchen, as it will now be called, marks Phillip’s second business venture in the Valley. His first, The Gadarene Swine, which opened just over a year ago, is an ambitious, creative, plantbased restaurant in Studio City. The Los Angeles Eater website listed it in “The Essential 38 Los Angeles Restaurants,” and it just received its first Zagat rating of 25 (rare for a new restaurant). Chef Phillip, who recently moved with his wife and business partner/pastry chef, Margarita, to Sherman Oaks from West Hollywood, says he spent months looking all over Los Angeles for a location. His choice may surprise some. Scratch|Bar, slated to open December 1 (Open Table began taking reservations in November), will occupy a second-floor space in a threestory, two-tone mini-mall on the Boulevard anchored by California Pizza Kitchen and Larsen’s Steakhouse. The location, which has a carousel out front, has experienced its share of problems over the past decade, including revolving tenants and an escalator that is often out of service. Phillip admits the rents in Encino were a factor in his decision. “I could get a much better deal here. Rents are a fraction of what they are in Studio City,” he says. Nostalgia helped seal the deal. “I grew up frequenting this shopping center with my parents and riding the carousel out front as a child … and then it wasn’t until seeing this little space that I fell in love,” he says. “It lent itself harmoniously to the concept I was aiming toward.” He continues, “Both my sets of parents still live in the Valley, and a lot of my guests at Swine live in and around Encino. It would be dumb of me to think anything in life is a sure shot, but I do like my odds and believe the demographic in and around Encino will support a concept such as this.” Phillip says the Scratch|Bar concept was inspired by local sushi bars. “When I grew up in the Valley, I went to sushi bars all the time.” There will be no waiters; cooks will take orders. “I want to take away the middle-man,” he explains. “The cook will come out and ask what you feel like eating … just like when you go home or to your grandma’s house and they ask what you want to eat.” The only source of heat will come from a wood-burning oven with an open hearth that occupies the “kitchen” half of the restaurant. Twenty seats will line the concrete-topped bar facing the hearth; high tables (“so everyone can see the cooks”) will dot the rest of the small space. An adjacent area on one side of the eatery is allocated for cocktails. The menu will include an eclectic selection of meat and fish, vegetables and starches. The cook will ask about ingredient preferences and offer various methods of preparation. Also offered: seven- to 25-course

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Big Fish Small Pond

VIEW FROM HERE Phillip and Margarita on the balcony outside their new restaurant. The couple, who met at Portola Middle School in Tarzana, came up with the Scratch|Bar concept together.

I grew up frequenting this shopping center with my parents and riding the carousel out front as a child … and then it wasn’t until

seeing this little space that I fell in love. It lent itself harmoniously to the concept I was aiming toward.”

tasting menus, as well as beer, wine and specialty cocktails. And as she does at The Gadarene Swine, Margarita will create desserts. Phillip’s #2, or “chef de cuisine,” at Scratch|Bar will be Jonathan Portela, who hails from the Michelin-starred Junoon restaurant in Manhattan. All ingredients will be made from scratch, including house-cured charcuterie and hand-pressed olive oil. Produce and meat will be sourced locally.

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“It’s all about naturalism for me. I want beef to taste like beef and cauliflower to taste like cauliflower. I don’t like to cover everything up with thick sauces and tons of spices. I want to celebrate the ingredient.” The question is whether a visionary chef like Phillip can lead the way in this suburb not regaled for fine dining—or really dining at all. The fact that the restaurant scene has not yet pushed into this enclave,

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Big Fish Small Pond

just west of the 405, is somewhat puzzling since home prices in Encino have risen 10% in the last year compared to lower numbers in Studio City and Sherman Oaks. Mark Stipkovich, VP of sales for Lawyers Title, explains that “the price increase in Encino is generally due to investor flippers who are driving up the market by dropping mega-mansions.” He continues that although sales have risen, Encino buyers are generally older. And while there are first-time homebuyers in Encino, sales prices are generally in the $1.2 million-plus range, which “eliminates much of the young population. “First-time buyers often come from the Westside seeking more value for their money and are looking in the $700,000 to $900,000 range … there’s much more inventory in Sherman Oaks and Studio City, which tends to be newer, updated and just more hip than Encino.” Still Mark believes that restaurants can prosper in Encino. “If a good restaurant is built, it’ll pull various age demographics from all over the Valley and Los Angeles, and other restaurants may follow … kind of like ‘if he builds it, they will come’,” he quips. John Aaroe Realtor Alan Taylor concurs with Mark but adds that it is difficult to find adequate restaurant space in Encino because of the way Ventura Boulevard is developed west of the 405—“It’s a tough stretch due to a lack of lowrise buildings, street-front space and parking.” Rickey Gelb has lived in and around Encino for nearly 60 years—and with his company, The Gelb Group, owns buildings and leases properties throughout the Valley, many which have housed restaurants. He says he has seen countless restaurants in Encino seem to “take off in the first six months and then fall to zero due to raising prices, food inconsistency and poor service.” Reflecting on the lack of street-front space, Rickey says, “Restaurants in the Valley very rarely do well on the second floor. The exceptions that I can remember are Larsen’s, CPK and Taj Mahal.” He adds: “Unless Scratch|Bar has something unique and has some type of following, it will be a rough road.” Rafael Dumas, the chef/owner of the now shuttered Karma Bistro in Encino (Scratch|Bar is now located in that spot), still owns the four-year-old Karma Lounge in Koreatown. He says he did his “due diligence” researching what kind of restaurant would be unique. With a menu that consisted of small plates with a global influence, he received excellent reviews. But after 15 months and a new baby, he felt that he couldn’t keep battling uphill. He recalls “an older crowd of people stuck in their ways” as one negative. Still he believes “Phillip will have a head start

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because of the press he receives and his notoriety.” Kevin Khalili, CEO of the team behind Coral Tree Café and Red Room Food & Wine Bar in Encino, says they’ve discovered “many Encino residents commute outside the Valley for work and therefore tend to eat dinner on the Westside after work, due to proximity and rush hour.” The group nonetheless has found success in Encino due to brisk daytime business and take-out orders at Coral Tree, as well as a good evening crowd at Red Room. The casual chain eatery Islands, however, moved from Encino to Sherman Oaks last year. Marketing director Amanda Cameron says the lease was up and the new development met all their criteria, plus it has free parking. She explains “both towns are terrific to do business in, but the Sherman Oaks area has much more residential living within walking distance.” Before the Scratch|Bar announcement, there were encouraging signs of possible growth. Sweeney’s Ale House, from barman/restaurateur Ryan Sweeney, set up shop in Encino. He also owns The Woodman in Sherman Oaks, as well as eight other gastropubs and bars. General manager Dustin Seavey says, “There was a big hole,” as far as where people could come eat and drink at night in Encino, so they “decided to take a risk.” So far, so good. He says Sweeney’s brings in a good evening crowd that ranges from ages 30 to 50s in the early evening and 20s to 30s later on. Another recent opening: Sweet Lady Jane in the Encino Marketplace. CEO Daniel Mafrice says they chose Encino because they had a strong Valley customer base that had fueled the original Melrose location for 27 years. “We specifically chose the Carusoowned property for the easy access to other Valley communities, ample parking and the vast amount of outdoor patio seating.” Du-Par’s took over the space occupied by John O’Groats, which owner Paul Tyler closed after five years to concentrate on his family’s original West LA location of 30+ years. “It was only natural for us to come back to Encino,” explains DuPar’s owner, Biff Naylor, since Du-Par’s had been located at Petit Avenue and Ventura Boulevard for 30 years. “Now West Valley customers are stopping in Encino instead of driving to Studio City. We’re happy to be here—we’ve carved out a niche with a high-end, ‘old school’ style … and it works.” Despite the trail of comings and goings, Phillip remains stalwart in his belief that he can make a difference. “I believe in our concept, and I believe in the city that I grew up in. The Valley never had great restaurants while I was growing up, and it’s very important to me to be a part of the solution, not the problem.” l

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Big Fish Small Pond KEY INGREDIENT A kale salad with salmon, cucumber and tomato. “We’ll just take something like a large whole salmon, stuff it and then grill it on the hearth. Then we’ll create various dishes with it, like this salad,” says Chef Phillip, explaining how Scratch|Bar will work.

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HOLIDAY 2015, VENTURA BLVD

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FULL CIRCLE

A nearly 50-year friendship between director Mark Cendrowski and actor/comedian Dave Coulier survives and thrives in the Valley. WRITTEN BY MICHAEL

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GOLDMAN |

PHOTOGRAPHED BY MELISSA

BRING

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Full Circle

s Mark Cendrowski and Dave Coulier usher you into Mark’s cozy Studio City living room, ostensibly to discuss their almost halfcentury friendship, it doesn’t take long to realize that the two Michigan transplants and sitcom veterans enjoy reminiscing primarily because it gives them a chance to crack each other up.

For example, after revealing their secret handshake— they slide two fingers together whilst saying, “give me some ski”—they giggle upon realizing the handshake’s origins have disappeared into the haze of their relationship’s early years. “I don’t really know how ‘give me some ski’ started,” admits Dave, a standup comedian and actor who starred for years as Uncle Joey Gladstone on the ABC sitcom Full House (1987–1995). He is currently reprising the role for the upcoming Netflix sequel, Fuller House, set to debut in early 2016. “The expression was ‘give me some skin,’” he muses, “but Mark’s last name is Cendrowski, so I guess …” “Instead of a whole hand, it was half a hand, and the fingers look like skis,” offers Mark, a highlyregarded TV director who is now the primary helmer on CBS’ huge hit Big Bang Theory. (He also recently directed the first two episodes of Fuller House and was stage manager on the original show during its second season.) Mark quickly gives up on his explanation when it dawns on him he and Dave really can’t explain it. The handshake has always been there, just like their friendship. The men, both 56, are IN THE SPOTLIGHT Dave and Mark performing at an An understandably proud of their n Arbor comedy show in 1981. Top righ successes in Hollywood, their t: the two doing a sketch during a hig families and good fortune in life. h school comedy show in 1977. Dave is on the left; Mark is But they are equally proud—peron the right. Mark’s brother, Dwight, is in haps even more proud—of their the middle. enduring bond. And the truth is, their professional success is

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directly interwoven with the friendship’s trajectory. At its core, it’s a relationship that hasn’t changed much since they first started palling around together as third-graders at St. Isaac Jogues Catholic Elementary School in St. Clair, Michigan. “We always kind of knew each other,” says Dave, who lives in the hills of Encino. “We played hockey as kids, and St. Clair is such a small town, a hockey community, and everybody knows everybody in that little world. We played hockey against each other when we were squirts, and Little League baseball.” By third grade they grew close, drawn together by the same interests that still keep them together. In school, Dave quickly noticed that Mark “could draw stuff. That told me this kid had a sense of humor.” By fourth grade they were close to inseparable, and although they didn’t realize it at the time, the nature of their shenanigans would begin pushing them onto parallel paths that would eventually direct them into their respective careers—Dave in front of the camera and Mark behind it. “We started doing song parodies,” Mark remembers. “‘Hey Jude’ was ‘Hey Poo’—things like that, like they were doing in Mad Magazine, making fun of things. We said, ‘We could do that.’” Pretty soon they realized that what Mark calls “comic sensibilities” was an obsession with both of them. “It certainly wasn’t a love of science or math,” he says as Dave nods in agreement. “It was more about fooling around, trying to get other kids to laugh. The whole key was that Dave was the class clown through grade school, and I was the instigator, the one behind scenes saying, ‘Do this, do an impression of the teacher.’” Dave’s skills as an impressionist began percolating during this era. He admits that “doing something funny, getting a reaction” was the daily agenda for both of them through middle school and on

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Full Circle

into their all-boys Catholic high school. During that era, they also made a series of 8mm movies using Mark’s father’s camera, which Dave starred in and Mark directed. But eventually the two became best known around their community for staging a series of fundraising events for their school in the form of variety shows featuring Dave’s standup comedy and Mark’s writing and direction. That came about after their school principal wisely decided to put Dave’s propensity for publicly making fun of him to some higher purpose. “I could do a pretty dead-on impression of the principal in high school, so he pulled me aside one day and said [in the principal’s voice], ‘I know you do this impression of me, David. Why don’t you get that Cendrowski fellow you are always clowning around with and do something for our fall drive?’” They did, and the resulting ticket sales from their shows blew them away. Those events “essentially were the start of my standup career,” Dave explains. “Before that I was getting up on picnic tables in somebody’s backyard, doing impressions of coaches at hockey banquets, or telling stories in the cafeteria.” “A lightbulb went off for us, thinking, ‘Hey, we could make money doing this stuff,’” Mark adds. And that is where their paths, ever so temporarily, diverged. Mark headed off to the University of Michigan to study film and TV production, while Coulier moved to LA to test the waters as a standup comedian. After graduation Mark migrated to Los Angeles, moving in with Dave in Studio City for about five years. They formed a comedy team with another friend called The Shibbletops, worked standup and wrote jokes together, and teamed up on a syndicated radio series called Cartoons of Our Lives, which was a soap opera featuring cartoon characters. All the while, both guys were having some success—getting decent gigs—in their respective fields. Then Full House struck. Dave was cast on the show while, unbeknownst to him, Mark was turned down for a stage manager job because producers worried he was too friendly with Dave and Bob Saget, another standup comedian whom Mark knew. For the show’s second season, they finally hired Mark. “I had no idea,” Dave remembers. “I showed up for work one day, and he’s there and says, ‘I’m your new stage manager.’ I was like, ‘OK.’ But it wasn’t really weird. I was already used to him yelling at me anyway. Actually, it was fun—we had

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In grade s chool, any day when good day we could was a get Elizab eth Cololu ca to Not much has chang . ed in that respect.”

SPIT MILK OUT HER N OSE

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Full Circle

a good time.” “[Co-stars] Dave and Bob Saget and John Stamos are still good friends, and they were then,” Mark recalls. “They were fooling around all the time. Technically, my job was to try and keep them in line, and it was kind of hard because I wanted to have fun too, and screw around. I tried to crack the whip a little bit on them. But it wasn’t any different than back when we were doing high school shows and in college, to be honest.” In fact, Uncle Joey’s signature line on the show—“Cut it out”—came from Mark. “I told him I was going to steal it,” Dave chuckles. “He used to do a character called Mark Suave, who went in the front row [during standup routines] and if there was a lady there, he would unbutton his shirt, and go, ‘Hey, cut it out.’ It was funny, so I told him when he is not doing standup anymore, I’m stealing that. Later, I hosted a show on Nickelodeon called Out of Control, and one day, I looked into the camera and went, ‘Cut it out.’ The producer loved it and said, ‘That’s the hook for the whole show.’ Then, I did it again during Full House, and it stayed with me after that.” “I saw him doing it on TV, and I went, ‘Wow, he said he was going to steal it, and he stole it,’” Mark adds. “He still owes me five bucks.” Mark only stayed on Full House for one season, as other opportunities arose; by the late ‘90s he was directing sitcoms. Eventually Mark was selected as the primary director on one of the biggest sitcom hits of recent years, Big Bang Theory, which Dave is only too quick to point out he has yet to be summoned to guest star on. “Not one episode, I’m just saying,” he points out. “Don’t any of those kids need a father who is funny?” Kidding aside, in a town and an industry known for pulling relationships apart, the old friends say they are still just “two guys from St. Clair Shores, Michigan,” as Dave puts it. They insist they have never even had a serious argument. When asked how that is possible given the length of their friendship, they remind that they are, like many residents of the Valley, transplants to LA. Perhaps, they imply, jointly importing their lives, friendship, values and sophomoric hijinks from Michigan has something to do with the relationship’s unusual stability.

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“I think it’s part of those Midwestern values,” Mark suggests. “Living out here, when you run into people, you can often tell when they are from the Midwest because there is a different mindset—it’s not that ‘get ahead at all costs’ mentality. We have been supportive of each other when there have been problems. He was there when my father passed away. We see each other at Christmas. I make sure to stop in and see his dad whenever I’m back in Michigan. I attribute that to a Midwestern value thing.” “Mark’s mom always called me son #4,” Dave remembers fondly. “She would send me a birthday card every year that just had ‘#4’ written on it. So there is a lot of history there, you know?” Today both men’s success continues unabated, as Dave is often on the road for standup gigs and Mark juggles his demanding TV production schedule. Plus they have families to attend to. Dave is remarried and has a 25-year-old son, while Mark has been married 27 years and has a daughter BEHIND THE SCEN ES who recently graduated college Dave, Mark and Bob Saget in drag in 1987, the year Mark worked as sta and a son at Duke University. It ge manager on Full Ho use. Below: On location in Hawa is more complicated to hang out ii for the sitcom. together than it was in the old days. However, they have a subconscious protocol for rebooting their friendship when ... well, let’s just say it: they miss each other. Rarely will more than a month pass before one of their phones will invariably ring. Whichever man picks up the phone will be informed that “Danny Klauza” or “Joanne McNulty” is calling, or any of dozens of other obscure names from their childhood. And when such calls happen, “We head to [an LA Kings] game or we play golf and just pick right up where we were,” Mark explains. “If we haven’t seen each other in a while, there is a recognition of that. There will be a call, and we have to go do something, maybe just go have a beer at a little sports bar we like in Van Nuys—the Barrel.” Bottom line at such get-togethers: “We haven’t matured at all,” Dave says. “In grade school, any good day was a day when we could get Elizabeth Cololuca to spit milk out her nose,” Mark adds. “Not much has changed in that respect.” l

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Dutch

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A Longridge Estates “old dame” with traditional bones gets a modern sensibility—thanks to some pros in residence. WRITTEN BY

LINDA GRASSO

PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE O’DONNELL

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Going Dutch

eing in the home restoration and construction business isn’t what Jeffrey and Shelly Greenfield planned. The married duo started out as CPAs. Then Shelly quit to raise son Chayson. “We had the traditional relationship. I worked. She worked out,” Jeffrey chuckles. A couple of years later, Shelly got itchy for work outside the home. “She’d always had an eye for architecture and design, which was put to the test when we restored and renovated a property we owned. It was incredibly well received,” Jeffrey explains. The transformation process captivated Shelly, whose father owned a CPA firm but restored homes on the side. “I wanted to take homes and make them more beautiful,” she explains. Naming their firm Red Door Homes, the couple divvied up responsibilities: Jeffrey was in charge of the financial side; Shelly handled design, sourcing and implementation. Red Door’s first job was a small bungalow nestled in the hills of Sherman Oaks. “We did virtually everything ourselves. We even sifted the dirt. Our goal was to build for the love of architecture and neighborhoods versus a price-per-square-foot mentality,” says Jeffrey. The couple turned a solid profit, and Red Door Homes was off and running. Jeffrey and Shelly, along with 10-year-old Aidan and 14-year-old Chayson, recently put their skills to the test on their own home. The original structure on the property was built in 1948, which according to the couple makes it the oldest home in Longridge Estates. The hilltop lot offers magnificent 180º views of the east Valley. Modeled after a Pennsylvania Dutch farmhouse, the Greenfield

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Going Dutch

WARM WAYS

Distinct touches in the kitchen include the combination of black wrought iron and brass hardware and grey-washed cabinetry. Left: Shelly and Jeffrey with their kids, Aidan and Chayson, at the handhewn trestle table in the dining room.

l o ve of archi t e ct u re and neighborhoods

Our goal was to build for the versus a price per square foot mentality.â&#x20AC;?

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Going Dutch

SKY HIGH The elegant master bedroom. Opposite top: Shelly, who is half Japanese, integrates Asian touches throughout the house, including the horse and lamp on this side table. Bottom: An oil painting by Van Brussel creates interest in a staircase landing.

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Going Dutch

home was built in 1992. The house was built for Patrick Swayze by his master carpenter brother. The actor never moved in, though, opting instead for a property elsewhere. Interestingly enough, the couple didn’t spring to work when they moved into the house in 2003. “It was kind of like the cobbler’s children who don’t have shoes. We did very little. We improved the lighting to lowvoltage halogen—I am kind of a lighting freak—but other than that we just lived in it, ” says Shelly. That all changed this past year. “The home changed hands a few times in the decade since Swayze’s brother transformed it, but when we bought it 12 years ago not much had been done since. She had great bone structure, and the authenticity of solid aged beams and exposed hardware. But the interiors needed a bit of a boost,” Shelly notes. One of their first endeavors was to refinish or “grey-wash” the wooden cabinets in the kitchen, family, living, powder and master bathroom. “Prior, they had kind of an orange hue from years of oxidation to old polyurethane. We worked closely with our master craftsman, Ramon, to come up with a perfect hue of grey—not too blue and not too pink. The trick with old homes is to understand you are working with a pre-existing structure. This wood had history but was also a little finicky to coax into being a newer and greater version of itself. After about 10 tries we finally got the correct formula. Ramon had to sand, bleach and apply four coats of color and sealer—a very labor-intensive process. We dressed up the new cabinets with antique brass fittings. Just so you know, brass is the new polished nickel,” Shelly remarks.

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HOLIDAY 2015, VENTURA BLVD

Going Dutch

The facelift also involved changing out the butcher-block kitchen center island to a Caesarstone “cement” slab to complement the Calcutta Gold countertops. Electrical was upgraded to low-voltage lighting with cool gadgetry such as USB hubs at outlets and auto-dimmers. Outside, strategic masonry work revitalized the Arizona flagstone, giving it a fresh appearance. A good friend of Shelly’s, an avid garage and estate sale goer, is responsible for a lot of the terrific pieces that fill the interiors. “He finds the most unique treasures, as a hobby, and passes them along to us as his home is complete.” And now, so it seems, is the Greenfield’s. l

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Going Dutch

PRIVATE SPACES The Greenfield home, which is in upper Longridge Estates and dotted with multiple patios, offers magnificent views of the east Valley.

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HOLIDAY 2015, VENTURA BLVD

TIME OUT The writer and his daughter in Havana

l e v a r T e m Ti to a b u C A father takes his college-bound daughter to Cuba, learning a poignant and timely life lesson from its people. TIFFANY

PHOTOGRAPH BY FARIBA TIFFANY

WRITTEN BY DALE

VENTURA BLVD, MONTH 20XX

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TOP PHOTO BY JOHN STAHL PHOTOGRAPHY, MIDDLE PHOTO BY FARIBA TIFFANY, BOTTOM PHOTO BY JOHN STAHL PHOTOGRAPHY

here was once a time when time stood still for me, before life took off like a rocket that burned days, weeks and years as fuel. Eighteen years ago, on a drizzly morning in Hawaii, my daughter, Sanam, was placed in my arms, and time stopped. Flash-forward a second later, and we’re planning our final trip as a nuclear family. Sanam is headed to Oberlin College, and we’ve rationalized a summer trip to Cuba. It seemed a destination where the clock had stopped—an end point and a starting point all wrapped in one. It held the promise of being a symbolic segue for mom, dad and daughter. What is written here is not a travelogue, though the sound advice is to go now. Already construction cranes are being hoisted, and the streets of Old Havana are being re-bricked. The lack of Starbucks, McDonald’s and KFC suggests urban purity. But the purse strings of investors are loosening. Tick, tock. We experienced certain trepidation in crossing over to a police state communist country, but that fear quickly vanished when we saw our first Cuban smile. That first one came fast; then they were abundant and incessant. We found the Cuban people to be warm, intelligent and welcoming. Though they are poor, they are not desperate. They seem to have balanced poverty with ingenuity. What they lack in possessions is compensated with heart, joy and resonant culture. The Cubans, in a word, are magnanimous. Cuba is not for the faint at heart. If one is not prepared for noxious fumes belching from cars, sparse accommodations, a discomfiting lack of toilet paper, zero mobile coverage and slow, spotty internet, a visit could be stressful. Otherwise, yo ho ho and a bottle of rum, it’s a pirate’s life for thee. And yo ho ho it was, even for a teenager traveling with four adults. At first glance, it seemed a recipe for a train wreck. Instead, it turned out to be an eye-opening look into the soul of a

STREET SCAPES Top to bottom: Near the Mercado; Old Havana; The Grand Teatro

Time Travel to Cuba

COMMUNAL SPACES Locals gathered at the Plaza Vieja; one of the many charming cafes in Havana

PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOHN STAHL PHOTOGRAPHY

resilient people; a sensual feast that causes a conscious traveler to peer into themselves and appreciate every dichotomy that separates us from them. The place is the razor’s edge of the comfort zone, and it rewards with a deep and often estranged insight … the notion that people are people everywhere. Period. Yes, the vintage cars are astonishing and ubiquitous as are the rum, cigars and colonial architecture. But that is all frosting. The real cake comes in the form of human connection. That connection made my time with my daughter even more intoxicating. The molasses moments shared at the base of Jose Marti’s statue in Parque Centro, floating in the pristine water at Playa Santa Maria, playing cards at the Hotel Inglaterra and dancing the rumba at a local Egrem brought me as close to stopping the clock as is humanly possible. But as we all know, clock-stopping is not humanly possible. So one makes do. Like the Cubans have. And one hopes that when the parting moment comes in August, for both her mother and me, it can be done with the same spirit and dignity. l Ventura Blvd magazine sales representative Dale Tiffany wrote this piece this past summer just before his daughter headed off to Oberlin College. At present, father, mother and daughter are doing well in this new chapter of their lives.

VENTURA BLVD, HOLIDAY 2015

ourventurablvd.com

MICHELLE SCHWARTZ, THE AGENCY

REAL ESTATE & MORTGAGE

Home Sweet Home F

inding your dream home is one of the most important investments you’ll likely experience in your lifetime. It can also be one of the most daunting.

We’re here to help. In the next issue of Ventura Blvd you’ll meet the pros who know the local marketplace better than any of us … we call them the Valley’s leading real estate and mortgage professionals.

For information contact Robin Sanders 818-427-2050 | robin@moontidemedia.com ourventurablvd.com

REAL ESTATE DEP | WHERE WE LIVE

OURVENTURABLVD.COM/REAL-ESTATE

1972 MIDCENTURY MODERN 18918 La Montana Place, Tarzana Offered at $5.5 million www.18918LaMontana.com Represented by: Andrea Korchek, Wish Sothebyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s International Realty 818-371-0933 Aaron Kirman, John Aaroe 310-994-9512 For more information see opposite page.

ourventurablvd.com

MONTH 20XX, VENTURA BLVD

Offered at $925,000 5345 Hazeltine Ave. Sherman Oaks

www.5345Hazeltine.com

Gorgeous Sherman Oaks Home One-level | 4 Bedroom | 3 Bath | 2,237 sq. ft. Mediterranean Home Meticulously Updated with Custom Finishes Throughout

Offered at $1,699,000 3742 Buena Park Dr. Studio City

www.3742BuenaPark.com

Contemporary Studio City Masterpiece

Sophisticated 4 Bedroom | 3.5 Bath | 2,460 sq. ft. Contemporary Home Incredible Indoor-Outdoor Lifestyle with Breathtaking Views

Susanna Nagy R eal t or 速 | Cal BR E Li cen se # 0 1832 306

818.481.1602

znagy@k w.com www.be st-l a -rea lesta te.com

Keller Williams Realty does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size, or other information concerning the condition or features of the property provided by the seller or obtained from public records or other sources and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information through personal inspection with appropriate licensed professionals. Square footage provided by the seller

BRIAN

PANE EXCELLENCE

Mortgage Capital Partners

H ill s

Sh er m an

Ca lab as as W oo dl an d

Single Family Homes

En cin o

ak s St ud io Ci ty Ta rz an a

Aimee’s Neighborhood Market Update

Average Sales Price (YTD)

$1.39m

$1.19m

$1.43m

$1.05m

$1.48m

$784k

Total Properties Currently for Sale

148

182

121

126

173

Number of Properties Sold (YTD)

381

514

272

226

230

598

Average Days on Market (Solds YTD)

$466

$493

$592

$374

$421

$351

4.4

3.2

6.7

3.4

5.7

3.4

Sold Price per Square Foot (YTD) Month's Supply of Inventory

Based on information from California Real Estate Technology Services. Due to MLS reporting methods and allowable reporting policy, this data is only informational and may not be completely accurate. Therefore, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage does not guarantee the data accuracy. Data maintained by the MLS's may not reflect all real estate activity in the market.

GET PRE-APPROVED AND FIND YOUR DREAM HOME! Trevor Lane

Aimee Lane

818.971.9380 direct

323.868.8450 direct

VP Mortage Lending

REALTOR®

trevormlane@gmail.com

aimeeglane@gmail.com

Mortgage Capital Partners

NMLS #531594

mortgagecapitalpartners.com

Trevor Lane helps his clients finance or refinance their homes and investment properties. At Mortgage Capital Partners, Trevor specializes in the neighborhoods of Sherman Oaks, Encino, Calabasas and Studio City. Prior to a career change to mortgage banking, he worked in the music industry, first at Warner Bros. Records and then at his own music promotion company for more than 10 years. A native of Los Angeles, Trevor attended Campbell Hall in Studio City followed by Loyola High school. Trevor holds an MBA from the USC Marshall School of Business and an undergraduate business degree from the University of Kansas. He lives in Sherman Oaks with his wife, Aimee, and their three children, two of whom attend Sherman Oaks Elementary Charter.

CALBRE #01976084

aimeelaneproperties.com

Aimee will help you get where you want to go! As a Realtor® and a licensed attorney, Aimee has excellent listening skills and is always attentive to helping you realize your real estate goals. Aimee spent many years as a civil litigator, honing her negotiation skills while helping clients resolve disputes. Aimee is a native of Sherman Oaks and began her education at Sherman Oaks Elementary School. For high school, she attended Marlborough School before graduating from Grant High School. She has a deep knowledge of the Valley and still lives there today. Aimee graduated from Yale University, where she majored in Art History, before earning her law degree at UCLA Law School. She began her legal career at Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP in downtown Los Angeles.

This is not an offer for extension of credit or a commitment to lend. If your property is currently listed, this is not intended as a solicitation. Mortgage Capital Partners, Inc. is a lender under California Real Estate License #01858965. NMLS #239902. © 2015 Mortgage Capital Partners, Inc.

Oren David Mordkowitz ESTATES DIRECTOR / REALTOR 速

818-933-5866

oren@orenestates.com

16677 Calneva Drive Encino $2,789,000

In Escrow! I

17841 Tarzana Street Encino $1,048,000

Sold!

4915 Rupert Avenue Encino $1,968,000

CalBRE License #01246402

4520 Libbit Avenue Encino $2,199,000

In Escrow! I

5198 Brian Lane Encino $985,000

Sold!

4510 Charmion Lane Encino $1,289,000

4949 Palomar Drive Tarzana $1,689,000

In Escrow!

4714 Hayvenhurst Avenue Encino $1,799,000

Sold!

3737 Longridge Avenue Sherman Oaks $6,850,000

Curious what your home is worth? It would be my pleasure to deliver you a FREE Market Valuation Report within 24 hours!

www.OrenEstates.com

Oct flyer FRONT FINAL Dennis.pdf

10/9/15

4:38 PM

Thinking of selling or leasing your home in Studio City?

We would love the opportunity to show you how we are different. Please feel free to call us or email us today!

R PE

R DP

R U T FEA

4332 Laurelgrove Ave | Studio City $2,169,000

IVE

T AC

15223 Valleyheart Dr | Studio City $489,000

R SC

12426 Landale St | Studio City $2,089,000

S LO

3923 Carpenter Ct | Studio City $2,955,000

D E N NI S CHER N OV REALTOR速 | CalBRE Lic #01850113

818.355.2461

Dennis@ChernovTeam.com

TIV

3743 Moundview Ave | Studio City $2,149,000

C ES

12409 Landale St | Studio City $1,299,000

O CL

4508 Ethel Ave | Studio City $850,000

TIV

12407 Milbank St | Studio City $989,000

C ES

13004 Bloomfield St | Studio City $2,600,000

O CL

12449 Hortense St | Studio City $786,000

the finest representation for the finest properties

4365 FARMDALE AVENUE | STUDIO CITY OFFERED AT $2,195,000

ou covet the opportunity to live in COLFAX MEADOWS - to stroll quaint sidewalks, to have your children attend Carpenter Elementary, and to experience that satisfaction of safety as you call for them to come for dinner as they play down the street with friends. Now, the rare opportunity to own Sophisticated Elegance within this special enclave is yours. Newer construction that surpasses your hopes and dreams, delighting you with expert craftsmanship. Uncommon

attention to design detail - Exquisite wallpaper, impressive moldings, substantial upgrades, and “just right” paint colors. Revel within your hedged, gated front yard, while relaxing on a private porch. Relax under the covered back patio while entertaining friends and family, as the sparkling pool beckons with children splashing with joy. The Master Suite with huge walk-in closet is the ultimate in luxury. The chef’s kitchen that opens to the family room is the perfect floorplan.

EXPERIENCE YOUR DREAM HOME. WWW.4365FARMDALE.COM

CRAIG KNIZEK t: 424 230 3718 | m: 818 618 1006 TheAgencyRE.com/CraigKnizek DRE# 01377932

Redefining Real Estate

TOLUCA LAKE

Brand New Masterpiece $6,750,000

ďŹ nd open houses now

aaroe.com

Brand new contemporary 5bd, 8ba European-style masterpiece. 4270Arcola.com Craig Strong 310.439.3225

STUDIO CITY BEVERLY HILLS P.O.

13319 Mulholland Drive Joan Duffy

TOLUCA LAKE

$9,250,000 310.995.0900

ENCINO

11 Toluca Estates Drive Craig Strong & Joan Duffy

$4,395,000 310.439.3225

BURBANK

Modern View Home $1,649,000 Meticulously restored modern 3bd, 3ba view property. 11503Laurelcrest.com 4727 Balboa Avenue Sally Forster Jones

$3,295,000 310.691.7888

WEST HILLS

7540 Southby Drive Alan Taylor

B E V E R LY H I L L S

149 N. Valley Street Craig Strong

$2,499,999 310.439.3225

HOLLYWOOD HILLS

$1,499,000 818.453.9175

BRENTWOOD

6338 Ivarene Avenue Bryan Abrams

MARINA DEL REY

Donovan Healey 310.903.1876

STUDIO CITY

$1,495,000 818.266.4300

SUNSET STRIP

4028 Denny Avenue Chris & Sandy Carlson

SHERMAN OAKS

TO LU C A L A K E

$1,030,000 323.496.6655

PASA D E N A

John Aaroe Group does not guarantee the accuracy of sq. footage, lot size, or other info concerning the condition or features of the property provided by the seller or obtained from public records and other sources and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy.

sold over list price

sold

16038 Valley Meadow Pl., Encino $2,705.000 www.RoyalOaksColony.com

16187 Royal Oak Rd., Encino $5,900,000 www.EncinoTrophyEstate.com

in escrow

sold

3833 Hayvenhurst Dr., Encino $2,250.000 www.ColonyWestEncino.com

3815 Valley Meadow Rd., Encino $4,495,000 www.ValleyMeadowEstate.com

sold

new listing

3857 Hayvenhurst Dr., Encino $4,250,000 www.HayvenhurstDriveEstate.com

4545 Encino Ave., Encino $2,299,000 www.EncinoSpanishEstate.com

new listing

sold

18255 Karen Dr., Tarzana $3,499,000 www.KarenDriveEstate.com

18937 Carmel Crest, Tarzana $2,150,000 Braemar Estates

Nobody does it better... sold

5131 Topeka Dr., Tarzana $2,999,000 www.TopekaEstate.com

818.285.3688

www.CarolWolfe.com

sold over list price 4200 Clear Valley Dr., Encino $2,102,000 www.ClearValleyDrive.com

#1 Agent

sold over list price 3775 Winford Dr., Tarzana $2,725,000 Mulholland Park

Rodeo Realty San Fernando Valley

CalBRE #00477745

in escrow

3656 Westfall Dr., Encino $1,899,000 www.WestfallDrive.com

TOP 1% COMPANYWIDE 2014 #1 Producing Agent, Sherman Oaks 2014 #1 in Number of Closed Sales, Sherman Oaks 2014

AVAILABLE

Bob & Dolores Hope Estate, Toluca Lake | Offered at $12,000,000

4270 Arcola Ave, Toluca Lake | Offered at $6,750,000

8Bd | 8Ba | 14,876± sf | 113,055± sf lot | 10346MoorparkSt.com

5Bd | 8Ba | 7,545± sf | 19,098± sf lot | 4270Arcola.com

PENDING

AVAILABLE

149 N Valley, Toluca Lake | Offered at $2,499,999

4717 Ledge Ave, Toluca Lake | Offered at $2,325,000

5Bd | 6Ba | 4,800± sf | 13,825± sf lot | 149NValley.com

4Bd | 4Ba | 3,560± sf | 18,156± sf lot | 4717Ledge.com

AVAILABLE

4295 Bakman Ave, Studio City | Offered at $1,849,000

11369 Brill Dr, Studio City | Offered at $1,599,000

4Bd | 3Ba | 3,194± sf | 7,365± sf lot | 4295Bakman.com

4Bd | 4Ba | 3,700± sf | 7,617± sf lot | 11369Brill.com

StrongRealtor.com Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/cstrongrealtor Download the Strong Realtor app from the Apple App Store and Google Play.

CRAIG STRONG Director, Aaroe Estates 310.439.3225 CalBRE 01450987

John Aaroe Group does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size, or other information concerning the condition or features of the property provided by the seller or obtained from public records and other sources and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information. CalBRE 01450987

Finding the right home starts with finding the right home loan. With a Citibank mortgage, you will receive exceptional benefits: Jumbo loan sizes up to $8 million On-Time Closing Guarantee* so you can be confident your loan will close on time Lower rates with Citibank Relationship Pricing

To learn more, please contact Citibank today: Ari Tinoosh Producing Lending Manager 818-723-0760 ari.tinoosh@citi.com NMLS# 488143

Terms, conditions, and fees for accounts, products, programs, and services are subject to change. This is not a commitment to lend. Certain restrictions may apply on all programs. * If you are purchasing a home, we guarantee to close by the date specified in your purchase contract, unless prohibited by federal law,* and further provided that the date is at least 30 days after the application date and the date of your purchase contract. If your loan fails to close on time due to a delay by Citibank, you will receive a credit toward closing costs of $1,500. Offer not available for refinance loans, co-ops, unapproved condos, residences under construction, some community lending programs and government loans. In Texas, the credit may not result in your receiving cash back. (*Federal law requires certain disclosures be delivered to the borrower at least 3 business days before consummation. The Guarantee to close does not apply if such disclosures are required and your closing is delayed due to the 3-business-day waiting period.) ÂŠ 2015 Citibank, N. A. Equal Housing Lender, Member FDIC. NMLS# 412915. Citi, Citibank, Arc Design and Citi with Arc Design are registered service marks of Citigroup Inc.

Director, Aaroe Estates | Top 3% company-wide | Top 2% nation-wide

Cutting Edge Marketing | Excellent Service | Outstanding Representation

Over $25 Million Sold in 2015 Over $10 Million in Upcoming Listings ALAN TAYLOR | 818.324.9329 | Alan@AlanTaylorRealEstate.com | AlanTaylorRealEstate.com John Aaroe Group does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size, or other information concerning the condition or features of the property provided by the seller or obtained from public records and other sources and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information. CalBRE 01369255

24304 LITTLE VALLEY RD, HIDDEN HILLS Joanie Louis 818.425.8516 2015 privately gated, apx 2+ acres (per assr) with view, 6BD/9BA, Guest house, pool, spa and barn. $9,875,000

4948 VANALDEN AVE, TARZANA Maurice Kozak 818.612.0204 Gtd cstm 1-lvl 4BD/4BA on 3+ acres (per assr) with views. Pl, koi pond. Guest ste. 4948Vanalden.com $3,295,000

1188 BUENA VISTA ST, VENTURA Ellyn Dembowski 805.320.1206 7BD/5BA, 3,710 sq ft (per assr) home. Chefs kitchen, hardwoods, pool. Breathtaking ocean views! $2,900,000

2950 DONA SUSANA DR, STUDIO CITY Francine Chalme Meyberg 818.987.7653 Elegant 4BD/3½BA + bonus in prime SC. Lush, tranquil bkyd with pool and views. 2950DonaSusana.com $1,849,000

WOODLAND HILLS Ken Begey 818.231.9812 Single story 4BD/3BA Vista de Oro pool home on large lot! Additional detached bonus with 2BD/1BA. $1,499,000

13042 VENTURA BL, STUDIO CITY Gary & Traci Ruebsamen 818.908.2420 Fantastic S. of Blvd 2BD/2BA + den, LR, din rm, retro kitchen, detached garage + studio. EZ Westside. $899,950

7150 CASTLE PEAK DR, WEST HILLS Ann Cohen 818.590.8366 Lovely Castle Peak home and Las Virgenes schools. 3BD/2½BA, family room. Huge grassy yard. $719,900

23100 WINDOM ST, WEST HILLS Ken Begey 818.231.9812 Remodel just completed; feels like new! 4BD/3BA with pool. 2 masters. 23100Windom.com $679,000

23777 MULHOLLAND HWY, CALABASAS Ken Begey 818.231.9812 2BD/2BA. Great Calabasas location at an affordable price! Views. www.Calabasas200.com $174,900

Visit us online at bhhscalifornia.com Sign up online for

© 2015 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size or other information concerning the condition or features of property provided by the seller or obtained from public records or other sources, and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information through personal inspection and with appropriate professionals. CalBRE# 01317331

In Focus LA

a bi-weekly lifestyle newsletter

Andrew Manning

#8 Agent Nationwide for BHHS!

4028 Alta Mesa Drive, Studio City, CA 91604 | Offered at $1,899,000 Enchanting newer European Villa recently renovated by talented artist/ designer owners. Located on easy to access lower Alta Mesa, just off of Coldwater Canyon & minutes to Mulholland Dr & the City. This private oasis features gated entry, 2-story living room w/frpl & many architectural upgrades. 4BD/3BA features newer master suite & sumptuous new master bath with dual vanities, soaking tub & rain shower. Truly spectacular newly upgraded kitchen has honed Calcutta marble, Wolf & Sub Zero appliances, walk-in pantry & catering ready center-island/breakfast bar. Bank of French doors lead to secluded grassy yard with terrace & full outdoor kitchen.

This next year will mark Andrew’s 30th year in real estate, as he continues to break sales records by remaining among the TOP 10 of all Berkshire Hathaway’s agents in the COUNTRY! From Condos to Castles, Andrew SELLS them ALL!

SOLD 3559 Green Vista Drive

SOLD

5806 Ranchito Ave

14018 Valley Vista Blvd

16010 ValleyVista Blvd

5007 Vanalden Ave

5333 Baza Ave

SOLD 4123 Stansbury Ave

SOLD 13480 Contour Dr

Featured Communities

Sherman Oaks

Studio CIty

Toluca Lake

Valley Village

Encino

Andrew Manning - Realtor® Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices | 14141 Ventura Blvd., Suite 8 | Sherman Oaks, CA 91423 818.380.2147 | www.andrewmanning.com | andrew@andrewmanning.com | CalBRE#: 00941825 © 2015 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.

Tarzana

MATTEPSTEIN.COM SOMATT@AOL.COM 818-789-7408 Follow me on Facebook: MattEpsteinRealty Follow me on Twitter: @SoMattEpstein CalBRE# 01121162

With proven results from the market leader, why call anybody else?

15035 Sutton St - Sherman Oaks - 5Br+5.5Ba in 4,743 SqFt on a 7,750 Lot - Gated south of the blvd. soft contemporary. Amazing touches and finishes throughout. $1,875,000

#KeepingItRealEstate

5158 Louise Ave Encino 5Br+6Ba in 4,800 SqFt on a 16,875 Lot Newly constructed gated compound. Beautiful touches throughout. Pool, spa, fire pit and BBQ $2,995,000

3652 DIxie Canyon Ave Sherman Oaks 4Br+5Ba in 4,063 SqFt on a 6,219 Lot South of the blvd gated Mediterranean with pool, spa and panoramic views. $1,989,000

13866 Valley Vista Blvd Sherman Oaks 4Br+5Ba in 4,317 SqFt on a 9,430 Lot South of the Blvd contemporary with pool, spa and spectacular views $1,750,000

5501 Fulton Ave Sherman Oaks 6Br+5.5Ba in 4,375 SqFt on a 7,402 Lot Chandler Estates. Gated newer construction. All large rooms. Grassy back yard w/ room for a pool. $1,395,000

Call for your FREE market analysis! ÂŠ2015 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc. Equal Housing Opportunity. CalBRE# 01317331

Private Mortgage Banking

Success is in the details

As a top-performing Private Mortgage Banker, John provides a full-service approach to your transactions, and can help simplify complex financial arrangements. In John’s 20 years of experience, he has earned his spot at as the #2 Private Mortgage Banker at Wells Fargo. Backed by the strength of the nation’s leading retail mortgage lender, you can count on John for: • Simplicity – a single point of contact throughout the entire transaction • Innovative – options to leverage today’s historically low interest rates • Accommodating – jumbo financing up to $6 million with higher loan amounts available for qualified applicants • Options – financing available for primary residences, secondary residences, and investment properties • Streamlined – Wells Fargo Private Mortgage Banking has simplified the process for self-employed customers and complicated income structures

#1 Customer Satisfaction scores in Wells Fargo #2 Private Mortgage Banker in Wells Fargo Information is accurate as of date of printing and subject to change without notice. Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. © 2012 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. NMLSR ID 399801 AS962177 2/13-5/13

John Musso Private Mortgage Banker 15760 Ventura Blvd Suite 1060, Encino, CA 91436 Office: 818-380-3322 Direct: 818-518-1008 john.musso@wellsfargo.com NMLSR ID 448606 “John Musso is a smart, creative, effective, and ethical Private Mortgage Banker, a combination that’s almost impossible to find. I highly recommend him.” – John Stewart, CEO of Rilan Investments

LAST WORD

Tree Tale Manning up for an annual holiday ritual Written by Susan McMartin

t’s that time of year again. The time when my strength, humor, ego and determination are put to the ultimate test. That’s right, I’m talking about single mom versus the mighty Christmas tree. I was raised with the belief that anything smaller than an 8-foot tree was considered a plant. I continued the tradition, and now my daughter is as snobby as I am. I didn’t know I would be divorced and doing the Christmas tree circuit alone all these years. If I had, I might’ve decided to honor my Jewish side and gone for a low-maintenance Hanukkah bush. The adventure begins at the super cheap tree lot. Great trees, but there is a catch for being priceconscious: They won’t put the stand on the tree for you, carry it to your car or tie it on top. No matter how much flirting, winking and flashing I have done, these guys are dead serious about bare-bones service. Typically my child and I spend a good hour picking our tree. We examine the size, the shape, the health of the needles, the personality and the overall cheerfulness. Once we make our choice, we get that sucker sacked. That’s when the man with the heavy gloves, scarf and hat drops it at my feet almost as if to say, “There ya go, lady. She’s all yours.” And so it begins. With my girl skipping behind, I drag the green beast to the car looking like something out of a Nora Ephron movie, only I’m not dressed nearly as cute as Meg Ryan, my kid isn’t Tom Hanks and there is no great Harry Connick, Jr. music playing in the background. Getting the tree on the roof of my car is a magic act. It requires me standing on the wheels, pulling, scratch-

SOUTHBAY, NOVEMBER 2015

ing the roof, pulling, yanking, begging (and, yes, there is some cursing). Viola! Tree on roof! At this point I’m exhausted, sweating and wondering why I’m never dating a guy around the holidays. You would think I would plan my romantic life a little better. Why am I usually dating in the spring when no holiday that requires heavy lifting is happening? Home we go ... at exactly 3 mph with my hazard lights on. Usually this is when my kid has to go to the bathroom. About four days later we make it home. Kick in the holiday music! Get out the egg nog and begin what is usually a good five hours of tree stand hell! Screw it one way, the tree is lopsided. Screw it another way, only two of the three screws meet the trunk. Finally, it stands— briefly. Every year our trees fall over again and again, causing my daughter to laugh, the dog to bark and the cat to race around in complete terror. My favorite part is dealing with the ornaments. Over my lifetime and my daughter’s we have collected incredible ornaments. Handmade ornaments from people who have passed on, from other countries, from my mother’s childhood, and the first ornament I made for my daughter when she was born: a hand-sewn heart. Only one item left. The star. As I slip on my highest pumps for extra height, climb on a chair to reach to the top, I manage to land that beautiful star safely in its place. “Mommy, I knew you could do it!” She is my greatest cheerleader. We high-five each other as once again I prove you don’t need a man to get a Christmas tree. But as she falls asleep, I think, “Next year I’m totally getting a boyfriend.”  Susan McMartin is a writer/producer on the CBS comedy Mom. She also pens the blog Studio City Mom at susanmcmartin.com.

oursouthbay.com

4840 Encino Avenue, Encino $5,195,000 Polished refinement graces every aspect of this private gated tennis court estate. Exceptional quality & craftsmanship are evident throughout the incomparable 6 bedroom 10 bath residence. Expansive rooms seamlessly transition to outdoor spaces creating the ultimate in California sophistication.

Harriet & Andrew

Ranked in the top 100 of all Berkshire Hathaway Agents nationwide. Named In The Wall Street Journal Top 250 Teams Nationwide. #35 in the country.

HarrietCameron.com

AndrewSpitz.com

BRE#675971

BRE#924610

818-380-2151

818-817-4284

2015 Sales Royal Oaks Off Market, Encino 16010 Valley Vista Blvd, Encino 15915 Woodvale Rd, Encino 15800 Woodvale Rd, Encino* 17300 Oak View Dr, Encino 4212 Costello Ave, Sherman Oaks 4529 Gloria Ave , Encino 14647 Valley Vista Blvd, Sherman Oaks 4201 Hayvenhurst Dr, Encino * 15938 High Knoll Rd, Encino 4271 Mooncrest Pl, Encino 3960 Westfall Drive, Encino 4253 Mooncrest Pl, Encino 16650 Chaplin Ave, Encino 4121 Hayvenhurst Dr, Encino 16883 Encino Hills, Encino 4858 Dempsey Ave, Encino 14540 Greenleaf St, Sherman Oaks 3651 Sheridge Dr, Sherman Oaks 3401 White Rose Way, Encino* 3633 Sapphire Dr, Encino 3633 Goodland Ave, Studio City 18200 Karen Dr, Tarzana 4569 De Celis Place, Encino* 19425 Shirley Court, Tarzana* 4848 Libbit Ave, Encino 5644 Tobias Ave, Sherman Oaks 5433 Tampa Ave., Tarzana 5211 Yarmouth Ave #5, Encino 5440 Lindley Ave #310, Tarzana *Represented both buyer(s) and seller(s) in transaction

$6,750,000 $3,410,000 $3,237,500 $3,090,000 $2,594,000 $2,500,000 $2,350,000 $2,285,000 $1,661,500 $1,650,000 $1,580,000 $1,539,000 $1,515,000 $1,505,000 $1,475,000 $1,475,000 $1,280,000 $1,270,000 $1,255,000 $1,230,000 $1,201,942 $1,105,000 $1,055,000 $999,500 $845,000 $887,000 $550,000 $530,000 $464,500 $350,000

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