Ventura Blvd May/June 2018 by Moon Tide Media

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where we live 18

Q&A Hollywood Memorabilia Dealer Joe Maddalena

20 DATEBOOK Fun Stuff to Do

22 UPWARD GOAT Yoga with Furry Critters

33 A FEW GOOD MEN National League of Young Men 34 GRILL THRILLS BBQ Gizmos and Gadgets

33 features 25 REV YOUR ENGINE Meet some rabid car fans—and their slick rides.

and then some... 41

TERRANEA The Ultimate Health and Wellness Immersion in Palos Verdes

36 FAMILY FITNESS Tae Bo guru Billy Blanks returns to the Valley and teams with his son.

54 BELMOND EL ENCANTO Escaping to Beauty and Serenity in Santa Barbara.

56 MODERN MAN CAVE A peek inside the sophisticated, Encino digs of TV producer Jay Renfroe

68 PROFILES Doctors and Health Care Providers

64 LESSONS IN LOSS A community comes together after tragedy.

the sauce

90 REAL ESTATE Spectacular Local Listings 114 MAN UP Lessons From the #MeToo Movement

46 FAME, FORTUNE & FAJITAS Actor Danny Trejos and his Woodland Hills eatery, Trejo’s Cantina COVER 51

UNEARTHED TREASURE Montrésor opens in Studio City

52 RAISING THE BAR Scratch|Bar & Kitchen expands the experience

Jeff Sharell, photographed by Shane O’Donnell

Some dream. You deliver.

W E L L S FA R G O P R I VAT E B A N K Wealth Planning Investments Private Banking Trust Services Insurance

Where there’s uncertainty, you see opportunity. You’ve got a good sense of what lies ahead and you surround yourself with people who know what it takes to get there. The Private Bank is your ally in developing a wealth plan that takes advantage of the potential opportunities of a changing economic climate. As you consider new possibilities, talk things through with seasoned professionals you know and trust. To start a new kind of conversation, contact your local Wells Fargo Private Bank office: Wells Fargo Wealth Management 2829 Townsgate Rd., Suite 215 Westlake Village, CA 91361 805-777-8375

Wells Fargo Wealth Management 15760 Ventura Blvd., Suite 1250 Encino, CA 91436 818-380-6660

wellsfargoprivatebank.com Wells Fargo Private Bank provides products and services through Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., the banking affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company, and its various affiliates and subsidiaries. Brokerage services are offered through Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and separate nonbank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. Trust services available through banking and trust affiliates in addition to non-affiliated companies of Wells Fargo & Company. Insurance products are available through insurance subsidiaries of Wells Fargo & Company and underwritten by non-affiliated Insurance Companies. Not available in all states. © 2018 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLSR ID 399801 IHA-5486903

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

PUBLISHER

Linda Grasso

Robin Sanders 818-427-2050 | robin@goldenstate.is

ART DIRECTOR Michelle Villas

ADVERTISING Senior Media Solutions Manager | Sue Williams

EDITORIAL

818-625-3515 | sue@goldenstate.is

Editorial Director | Darren Elms Media Solutions Manager | Erika Carrion Copy Editors | Peggy Jo Abraham,

310-897-2424 | erika@goldenstate.is

Laura Watts Media Solutions Manager | Marcie Gutierrez Senior Graphic Designer

424-220-6337 | marcie@goldenstate.is

Christine Georgiades Media Solutions Manager | Amy Tetherow VB’s The Sauce eNewsletter Editor

424-220-6338 | amy@goldenstate.is

Joshua Lurie GROUP PUBLISHER Jared Sayers

CONTRIBUTORS Michalene Busico, Heather David, Dan Fredman, Michael Goldman, Cat Sherwin, Susan Spillman, Steven Stiefel, Karen Young, Rachel Heller Zaimont PHOTOGRAPHERS Michael Becker, Tameka Jacobs, Kremer Johnson, Jakob N. Layman, Shane O’Donnell, Monica Orozco, Michelle Tritten

MANAGING PARTNERS Charles C. Koones

Todd Klawin

MARKETING & OPERATIONS Partner/Brand Publisher | Emily Stewart Partner/Managing Director, Media & Analytics | Warren Schaffer Brand Publisher | Hannah Lee Director of Marketing & Business Development | Cherice Tatum Director of Digital | Charles Simmons Director of Film & Video | Bryce Lowe-White Art Director | Angela Akers Digital Marketing Manager | Mike Sayers Operations Director | Allison Jeackjuntra Marketing Manager | Chloe Curtis Director of Events | Danielle Price Accounting | Janet De La Cruz No part of this periodical may be reproduced in any form or by any means without prior written consent from The Golden State Company, LLC. Any and all submissions to this or any of The Golden State Company, LLC publications become the property of The Golden State Company, LLC and may be used in any media. We reserve the right to edit. TO OUR READERS Ventura Blvd welcomes your feedback. Please send letters to: Reader Response Department, Ventura Blvd PO Box 3760, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266. Please include your name, address and email. Edited letters may be published. SUBSCRIPTIONS Email: info@moontidemedia.com or phone: 310-376-7800. Subscriptions are $29 per year.

VENTURA BLVD | MAY/JUNE 2018

200 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Suite. 110, El Segundo, CA 90245 Tel 310-376-7800 | Fax 310-376-0200 | venturablvd.goldenstate.is

Imagine reducing your opioid dependence With nearly 2.5 million Americans said to be addicted to prescription opioids or heroin, there is no doubt that we are in the midst of an epidemic involving addiction to painkillers. Since 1999, the rate of overdose deaths involving opioids—including prescription painkillers and heroin—nearly quadrupled, and over 165,000 people have died from prescription opioid overdoses, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The problem gets even more complicated when people treated for addiction to painkillers get seriously hurt or need surgery.

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY KREMER JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHY

editor’s letter | LINDA GRASSO

It is a pleasure to bring you this MENS issue. From the piece on Valley-born and bred actor Danny Trejo and his new Woodland Hills eatery (page 46) to a feature on the very much aliveand-well local car culture and some noteworthy enthusiasts (page 25) to the article on the rule-breaking “man cave” of TV producer Jay Renfroe in Encino (page 56), we hope you enjoy this celebration of culture, talent and testosterone. Although with “themed” issues we try and stay on topic, occasionally when we feel it is merited, we go off course with articles. You’ll note an example of that was when we ran the piece in the ARTS issue on a local firefighter who had battled the December fires. We are doing the same thing here with “Lessons in Loss,” penned by Karen Young (page 64). The Valley was shaken to its core when an eighth grade student took his own life in February. That however, is not the story we are sharing on these pages. The piece Karen wrote is about how the community came together—acting quickly, responsibly and lovingly in the effort to cope with this unspeakable tragedy. The loss of such a young life was indeed heartbreaking. But the way this community reacted was nothing short of beautiful. I felt compelled to share the remarkable manner in which our community responded, along with some important information aimed at helping us understand and try to prevent teen suicide. Sometime the Valley feels like a booming metropolis. At other times, like this past February, it feels like a small town—one with a caring, connected community. That juxtaposition of two elements is just one more thing I love about living here.

Linda Grasso Editor-in-Chief

VENTURA BLVD | MAY/JUNE 2018

Follow me on Instagram @linda.grasso and my podcast @she_sez

contributors

Shane O’Donnell PHOTOGRAPHER “Rev Your Engine,” “Modern Man Cave,” “Family Fitness” Shane is a Wisconsin-born photographer living by the beach. His documentary and commercial training bring a realistic and refined style to his work. Shane photographs catalogues, advertising, architecture and travel and has shot for such clients as Budweiser, Hershey, Syfy Channel and Vespa. seelikeshane.com

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Michalene Busico WRITER “Fame, Fortune & Fajitas” Michalene grew up in Monarch Beach when it was a rural beach town. She’s held top editorial positions at publications including The New York Times and the Los Angeles Times, Entrepreneur Media and Robb Report. She lives in Malibu, where she grows Syrah grapes and makes wine.

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Michael Becker PHOTOGRAPHER “A Few Good Men,” “Going Once, Going Twice” Michael has shot marketing campaigns for numerous TV networks and his photographs have appeared in People, US, Entertainment Weekly, NY Times Magazine, LA Times Magazine and The Wall Street Journal. He is also an Oscarnominated songwriter/producer for “In the Deep” from the film Crash.

MAY/JUNE 2018 | VENTURA BLVD

may/ june SHOW OFF

It may have moved from drag racing down the Boulevard to flaunting rides at special events, but car culture is alive and well in the Valley. More on page 25.

DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018 | VENTURA BLVD

Going Once, Going Twice

The man behind the auction block for historymaking sales like Marilyn Monroe’s “subway dress” for more than $5 million and R2D2 for $2.76 million PHOTOGRAPHED BY MICHAEL BECKER GROOMING BY CAT SHERWIN

VENTURA BLVD | MAY/JUNE 2018

EYE OF THE BEHOLDER An Oscar and a hoverboard from Back to the Future Part II— both of which are from Joe’s personal collection.

From famous actors to showbiz head honchos, when someone has a high-profile item they want to put on the auction block, they turn to Joe Maddalena. As CEO of Profiles in History, Joe is considered the world’s largest auctioneer and dealer of original Hollywood memorabilia, historical autographs, letters, documents, vintage photographs and manuscripts. His company holds all its auctions at their Calabasas headquarters (also Joe’s hometown). VB editor Linda Grasso gets some behind-the-scenes scoop about what it’s like running the legendary auction house and having close encounters with some of the most famous items in Hollywood history.

As I always say, people aren’t collecting ‘things.’ They’re collecting nostalgic memories.” How do you ensure items are authentic? Over the decades, I’ve established relationships with most of the experts in the field of collecting as well as the artists and effects wizards who actually created the pieces. While others struggle to prove authenticity, we have the luxury of knowing the absolute origin of each item to ensure the strongest provenance. Biggest price tag item you’ve sold? Audrey Hepburn’s stunning “ascot dress” from My Fair Lady sold for $3.7 million! How did you get into auctioneering memorabilia? I’ve always had a great interest in culture. As a kid, I collected baseball cards. As I learned more about collecting, I developed an interest in historical documents. But at the end of the day, all of this lead me to apply my knowledge and passion to the vast craft that makes up the great American art form of filmmaking. The most exciting auction of your career? My first Debbie Reynolds auction. Debbie loved the history of movies as much as any fan, and her personal proximity on set to all the crafts, costumes and art allowed her to accumulate the largest world-class collection ever. That sale brought in more than 24 million dollars!

You sold the dance floor used in Saturday Night Fever for 1.2 million dollars. Who bought it and what do they plan to do with it? One of the hallmarks of our business is confidentiality. In this case, I can’t tell you who purchased the dance floor, but I can tell you it came directly from a seller who owned the nightclub that was featured in Saturday Night Fever. It’s a big, glamorous item, so my bet is that it’ll reveal itself to the public again before too long. What price tag really surprised you and why? Steve McQueen’s racing jumpsuit from Le Mans estimated at $200,000 to $300,000, which sold for $800,000. That’s the excitement of the auction business.

What motivates buyers to shell out big bucks for Hollywood memorabilia? As I always say, people aren’t collecting “things.” They’re collecting nostalgic memories. These objects are tangible pieces of the stories that have shaped our lives and imaginations and those of the people we love. Share with us the journey of an item like R2D2. With R2D2 or any iconic item, they come to us for a variety of reasons. One is that the owner has taken care of the treasure for a long time and is ready for it to take care of them. Sometimes the owner truly loves the piece, and they believe that another collector can take better care of it or share it with more fans. Often a collector waits for just the right time to release the item to the public. Items find their way to Profiles in History due to our reputation for presenting them beautifully and bringing top dollar for them. It’s also because they know my staff and I love and respect their treasures as much as they do. What’s coming up for Profiles in History? In late May, the Liza Minnelli collection, which features items from her career and life as well as the lives of her mother, Judy Garland, and her father, Vincente Minnelli. This will be a fan’s dream come true. ■

MAY/JUNE 2018 | VENTURA BLVD

datebook

PLAY TIME

Going On Now Public Settings/Private Conversations

Painter Jodi Bonassi studies life in the Valley—from barbershop and café conversations to the frenetic college lifestyle at CSUN. Through June 30. themuseumsfvnow.org

City and Cosmos: The Arts of Teotihuacan

A groundbreaking exhibition featuring new archaeological discoveries from the ancient Mexican city. Through July 15. lacma.org

Beyond the Nile: Egypt and the Classical World An exploration of the artistic interplay between the cultures of Egypt, Greece and Rome. Includes Egyptian statues, striking portraits and luxurious objects made for wealthy Romans. Through September 9. getty.edu

May 6 Springtime in the Village

Part wine/jazz festival and part street fair. This event, hosted by Vitello’s, takes place in Tijunga Village. springtimeinthevillage.com

12 An Evening with David Sedaris

Sedaris shows why he has been America’s favorite raconteur for over two decades. valleyperformingartscenter.org

Rick Bartow: Things You Know But Cannot Explain

A retrospective on contemporary Native artists that includes large-scale paintings, drawings, prints and sculptures. Through January 6. theautry.org

31 Pink

The pop singer hits the Staples Center as part of her Beautiful Trauma World Tour. staplescenter.com

June 2 Perfume-Blending Workshop

Join the Institute for Art and Olfaction to create scent samples. descansogardens.org

The Jim Henson Exhibition: Imagination Unlimited

An interactive exploration of the visionary entertainer’s work opens at Skirball Cultural Center on June 1. The exhibit includes puppets from Sesame Street, The Muppets, Fraggle Rock and The Dark Crystal, as well as handwritten scripts and costumes from Labyrinth. Through September 2. skirball.org

VENTURA BLVD | MAY/JUNE 2018

3 Ray LaMontagne

The Grammy Award winner sings songs from his seventh album. lagreektheatre.com

9 Mountain Lions and More

A wildlife photographer and a conservancy expert on understanding and protecting wildlife. descansogardens.org

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Upward Goat

Yoga’s newest trend isn’t about heat or flow but rather some furry, four-legged animals. WRITTEN BY HEATHER DAVID PHOTOGRAPHED BY MICHELLE TRITTEN

Having a set of four hooves suddenly jump on your back when you’re on a yoga mat may intimidate some, but Michelle Tritten insists that it’s a great way to deepen a stretch, increase strength and improve balance. “People who have never tried yoga, come

VENTURA BLVD | MAY/JUNE 2018

for the goats. Seasoned yogis come for the challenge, because holding balancing postures with a goat is quite impressive,” says the Burbank native. Michelle runs an hour-long class, “Hello Critter Goat Yoga,” that utilizes miniaturesized Nigerian goats. Sometimes they just roam around; other times they jump or lean on students. A goat owner since the ‘80s, Michelle had been running a pet care business. Then a year ago, a friend, yoga instructor Hope Urban, mentioned seeing a video of a goat yoga class in Oregon. She suggested the two team up and give it a whirl here in LA. “Hope offered to teach, and I brought my goats to our first class of 10 people on Earth Day 2017. It was a blissful experience. Two weeks later, we held our second class and 70 people showed up!” says Michelle. Michelle has hosted private and public events throughout the city ever since, including regular bi-monthly “pop-up” classes in Burbank and Larchmont Village.

“It gets people outdoors and interacting with animals,” says Beverly O’Donohue, one of the Hello Critter yoga instructors. “With the goats there, it allows us to take yoga and life less seriously,” she adds. And indeed, no matter how serious the yogi, there’s simply no way to keep a straight face when one of the natural born climbers turns a downward dog into an upward goat. “They do what they want, when they want, including jumping on backs and crawling between legs. People often say that when a goat jumps on them, it feels really good, like an adjustment or a massage,” says Michelle. If you’re asking yourself “What’s the point?” you may just be thinking too hard. “The goats bring you into the present moment, which can be quite challenging while living a busy lifestyle. The genuine laughter and joy while getting fit with goats is really what brings folks back.” ■ For more, go to @hellocrittergoatyoga on Facebook and @hellocrittercare on Instagram

STRUGGLING WITH HEARING LOSS? Our Hearing Care Specialist Can Help! Meet Joyce Crawford, Doctor of Audiology Dr. Crawford's career began in the U.S. Army, where she served as an audiologist in the Medical Service Corps. She also provided audiological services to our military through the VA and the DoD Hearing Centers of Excellence. She has extensive experience in a variety of settings, including major medical centers, universities, private practice, and public schools. She attributes much of her skill from her interactions with her patients over the years. Her passion is to ensure that her patients' hearing aid experiences enhance relationships with family, colleagues, and friends.

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Schedule your hearing evaluation. Call (818) 574-3316 16260 Ventura Blvd., Suite 420 Encino, California 91436

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Every week, the rebel spirit of the Valley’s car culture rumbles to life in a parking lot in Woodland Hills. WRITTEN BY DAN FREDMAN PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE O’DONNELL

MAY/JUNE 2018 | VENTURA BLVD

VENTURA BLVD | MAY/JUNE 2018

t’s 7 a.m. on a Sunday morning and Dustin Troyan stands in the parking lot at the Promenade in Woodland Hills, watching car after car roll in. A silvery Porsche 914-6. A phalanx of multicolored Camaros. A 1955 Ford Thunderbird. His weekly “Supercar Sunday” meet is the big daddy of local “gearhead” get-togethers, the loose constellation of events that keeps the San Fernando Valley the center of the car-obsessed universe. Whether it’s the Friday night cruise-in at Bob’s Big Boy in Toluca Lake, the annual Chevy extravaganza in Canoga Park, the Sunday morning “Cars and Coffee” over the hill in Malibu or “Supercar Sunday,” these public displays of automotive love are where the Valley’s cylinder-powered soul rumbles to life. “In the 1960s and ’70s, the car culture was fueled by the outlaw image of hot rods drag racing on Ventura Boulevard or sports cars deucing it out up on Mulholland,” Dustin says. “On the surface, it was all about seeing how far you could push your car, avoiding the cops and maybe making a little money. But deep down, it was really about hanging out with your friends and a sense of belonging. ‘Supercar Sunday’ is the natural evolution of that car-crazy tradition of Southern California.” Dustin, a longtime car enthusiast who works in automotive marketing, was working as a coffee roaster in Woodland Hills when he realized the lot in front of his coffee shop would be a fine place to stage a morning gathering of car lovers. “Supercar Sunday” was born in 2000 as a free, weekly get-together for about 20 of his friends but soon became too successful for its own good. After merchants complained about the crowds, he moved the event to the Promenade in 2009. The rules are still the same: All cars are welcome, free of charge. No spaces are reserved, so the brand-new, detailed-to-the-max Ferrari 599 is parked next to a bone-stock ’67 Mustang, a shiny Nissan GT-R next to a rat-rod of indeterminate age, all surrounded by an ocean of Jaguar XKEs, Corvettes and even a Checker Marathon. No revving. No Peeling out. No racing. And the memorable directive, “Do NOT be an idiot.” Most weeks, 200 to 300 cars are on display, some buffed to a luminescent brilliance and others in some state of restoration or disintegration. The ethos is simple: Just bring what you drive and expect no judgments but perhaps advice, educated recommendations and the occasional admission of awe or envy. “For at least a morning, cars are the only thing anyone cares about,” Dustin says. “Every car has a story, sometimes a lot of stories. It doesn’t matter who you are, what you do for a living, your politics, your race, where you’re from or even what you drive.” It’s a car guy world. Let’s meet some of them.

“You can never go wrong with PCH through Orange County; from Dana Point to Huntington Beach is always a fun drive. I also love Mulholland.” — Jeff Sharell

WHO: Jeff Sharell, Tarzana THE RIDE: Jeff has loved tinkering with cars as long as he can remember. His first car was a 1988 Toyota Celica. “It was my brother’s car. It was a horrible burgundy color and had matching interior. I had to take it, but I didn’t waste any time. I headed over to Globe Tire in LA and got some new 15-inch chrome wheels for it (back in 1991, they were cool). Then I tinted the windows, had some of the interior reupholstered, lowered the suspension and put a stereo system in it with two 10-inch subwoofers in the trunk.” Jeff also owns a 1959 Chevy Apache, a 1963 Chevy C10, a 2005 Mercedes E55 AMG and a 1992 Mercedes 300te wagon, “none which are stock.” THE ROUTE: “You can never go wrong with PCH through Orange County; from Dana Point to Huntington Beach is always a fun drive. I

MAY/JUNE 2018 | VENTURA BLVD

also love Mulholland. I would have to say that I enjoy driving cars over working on them. I really like going to car shows and car meets. Being in Southern California, there are car meets every weekend, and during the summer, there’s always a car show to go to.”

WHO: John Windt, Culver City THE RIDE: John was working at Motown Records in Detroit when he bought a used, red 1964 Lotus Elan. Its simple design appealed to his engineer mentality, and he drove it out to LA in 1968, looking for work. THE ROUTE: “The Lotus and I became regular participants in the late-night racing scene up on Mulholland Drive. We were fast and furious before there was a Fast and Furious. I even rolled the car one night. No injuries—my pride, maybe—but it took me eight months of working six hours a night to get it back up on the hill again. I do all my own work on the car. It’s simple—no power brakes, no power steering, just three pulleys and one belt. I eventually got so busy building recording studios that the car sat in the garage for 10 years. I sold it to a friend, and he let it sit for another 10 years before finding time to drive it. In the meantime, I’d take my Ferrari 430 to Bob’s Big Boy, and I was hearing good things about “Supercar Sunday.” That got me thinking about how much I liked the Lotus, so I bought it back from my friend and I’ve been driving it ever since.”

WHO: Francisco Hernandez, Northridge THE RIDE: His dream car is also his everyday car—a 1987 Toyota Corolla SR5, a bright red coupe whose “in-transition” exterior belies the attention paid to the mechanicals. THE ROUTE: “My mother’s first car was a 1977 Toyota Corona and I’ve always just liked Toyotas. I grew up in the Valley and started coming to “Supercar Sunday” before I was old enough to drive. I do my own work on the SR5. I’ve swapped out the automatic transmission for a manual, upgraded the carburetor and will do the cams and maybe some bodywork at some point, but right now I just enjoy driving it, and I like hanging out and talking to other car-heads. Retroheads, old school-heads, exotic supercar guys—there’s no segregation, no judging, just a dedication to cars.”

WHO: Sheldon Roth, Northridge THE RIDE: 1997 Volvo 855S Estate Wagon, a mom car on the outside and a turbo-charged monster under the hood. THE ROUTE: Sheldon studied design in college and the education stuck with him. “Back in the ’70s, I was passing through Amsterdam and I saw a Volvo 122S parked next to a canal. It was like walking into a magazine ad, and it was love at first sight. I’ve owned maybe a dozen Volvos since then but am down to three now. Being into cars is a nice outlet for what may be my benign case of OCD. I love detailing cars—it’s a tactile way of feeling how the form and function of a car’s design come together. At “Supercar Sunday,” I like to see the little artistic touches other guys add to their cars. It’s like looking into a jeweler’s display case.”

VENTURA BLVD | MAY/JUNE 2018

“We were fast and furious before there was a Fast and Furious.” — John Windt

“I regularly ditched school to go racing along the LA River...” — Alan Dornath

VENTURA BLVD | MAY/JUNE 2018

The Nuts and Bolts of “Supercar Sunday” “Supercar Sunday” takes place from 7 to 10 a.m. every week. Cars come and go; peak viewing time is usually 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. If you’re not planning to show your car, park on the perimeter of the lot; otherwise pull right into the heart of the action. A different automotive theme is featured once a month. For more, go to supercarsunday.com.

WHO: Alan Dornath, Woodland Hills THE RIDE: Back in high school, in 1961, Alan had the third-fastest 1956 Chevy in the Valley. His current cars, a 1957 Chevy Bel Air Hardtop and 1964 Impala Super Sport 4-speed Convertible, still see time on the asphalt but not the drag strip. THE ROUTE: “I was a member of a club called the Highwaymen, and I regularly ditched school to go racing along the LA River in front of Forest Lawn. I worked afternoons at a Mobil station and would park my Chevy in front, and people would stop in to see if I wanted to race. ‘How much ya got?’ I’d ask, and we’d make arrangements to meet later. I won most of the time. I made a lot of money for a high school kid. You get older and you want to pass your love of cars along to youngsters.” Alan heads up the Classic Chevys of Southern California and organizes an annual car show to raise money for the Rancho San Antonio Boys Home in Chatsworth. “We’ve raised more than $150,000 over the years, which is a little ironic since more than a few of us hot-rodders would probably now be considered at-risk youth, and we could easily have wound up as Rancho San Antonio residents instead of benefactors.”

WHO: Mark Garren, Northridge THE RIDE: The inveterate surfer drives a limestone gray 2017 Volkswagen Golf R, the racier version of the ubiquitous GTI. THE ROUTE: “It’s a limited-edition model that’s like a go-cart on rails. I had a 1985 GTI a long time ago, so when I was in a position to do something nice for myself last year, I tracked this car down in Utah. A buddy and I flew up and drove it back home through Las Vegas. The roadtrip was a blast. My quality of life is much improved since I’ve begun driving this car every day, and seeing other people who are just as into whatever they’re driving is such a good feeling.” ■

MAY/JUNE 2018 | VENTURA BLVD

PRO FILES

FINANCE & WEALTH MANAGEMENT

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TIES THAT BIND Carson and Allyson Arons with their fellow Mid Valley NLYM chapter members

A Few Good Men

Strengthening bonds with the community, peers and between mothers and sons PHOTOGRAPHED BY MICHAEL BECKER

Raising good men is the primary goal of the National League of Young Men (NLYM). But there’s another benefit. The organization gives boys a chance to do something with their mothers. “Sports is often the only thing we get to do with our sons,” says Mid Valley Chapter President Gretchen McCourt, mom of two Loyola students. “This gives us another way of being together, enjoying each other’s company. And the boys are learning important skills like networking,” she adds. The nonprofit organization for boys (grades 9-12) and their mothers focuses on learning leadership skills and how to behave like a gentleman. Also part of the experience: performing community service and attending cultural events together. The Mid Valley Chapter was founded about a year ago. Gretchen’s son Luke went to a NLYM event for the Pacific Palisades Chapter and enjoyed it but couldn’t join because he didn’t live in the area. So the Sherman Oaks mom (and Executive VP at ArcLight Cinemas) decided to launch a Mid Valley Chapter. Members must live between Encino

and Burbank; there are also West Valley and Pasadena chapters. Tracey Garnett, who works as a gynological surgeon while raising two sons, agrees about the benefits. “It is a great way for my sons to have cross Valley peers and to network outside of their school activities.” Carson Arons leads the life of a typical busy teenager, playing both baseball and basketball at Notre Dame High School. But when his mom asked him to join NLYM, he says he immediately said yes. “It sounded fun. I like learning about leadership. And the speakers we’ve had have been really interesting.” The Mid Valley Chapter, which now includes 115 boys, has five meetings a year with speakers and etiquette training. Other activities include trips to museums and concerts. There are formal dinners for juniors and seniors. Membership is also extended to boys who don’t have moms. “What happens in that case is another mom from the group will sponsor the boy so he can participate in NLYM. It’s really sweet,” says Allyson Arons. ■

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Grill Thrills The latest gizmos and gadgets for an extraordinary season by the grill

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1. LYNX SMART GRILL This technologically advanced grill is voiceactivated, WiFi-enabled and automatically cooks foods based on user commands. From $6539; lynxgrills.com

4. CERAMIC PLATTER Present dishes on this pretty platter. Spatula included. $56; Présence Fine Paper and Gifts, 13812 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks

2. CAST IRON GARLIC ROASTER Designed to cook whole garlic to perfection. $16.95; crateandbarrel.com

5. SAUCE BOWL Be your own sauce boss with this sassy bowl and brush. $34; Présence Fine Paper and Gifts, 13812 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks

3. HIMALAYAN SALT BLOCK For everything from grilling to seasoning to dramatic serving presentations. $34.95; crateandbarrel.com

6. TRIVETS These colorful, handmade trivets are as pretty as they are functional. $15 each; BLVD Kitchen, 13545 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks

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design showcase A collection of the best local design & architecture featured in the Home issue of Ventura Blvd. 4 24 . 220. 6341 OU RV E NT U RAB LV D@ MOONT I DE ME DI A.CO M V E NT U RAB LV D.GOL DE NSTAT E . IS

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VENTURA BLVD | MAY/JUNE 2018

Family Fitness In the 1990s, Billy Blanks was a fitness king— running his eponymous TaeBo studio in Sherman Oaks and starring in his successful fitness infomercial series. Then suddenly he disappeared. How a TV show and a newly forged relationship with his son brought him back. WRITTEN BY STEVEN STIEFEL PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE O’DONNELL

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n his 2012 appearance on Shark Tank, Billy Blanks Jr. (BJ), charms all the entrepreneurs or “sharks” dangling seed money, when he pitches his Dance with Me DVDs and instructor-licensing business. He asks for $100,000 for a 20% ownership, and Daymond John and Mark Cuban counter with $100,000 for a 50% co-deal, contingent upon distribution through Zumba. BJ, who doesn’t think Zumba will work with his idea, turns down the offer, and he leaves the “tank” dejected. “You know what, if I don’t do this, I’m going to regret it,” Daymond says, rising from his seat after BJ has left the room. “Where are you going?” Kevin O’Leary, one of the other sharks, asks. “I’m going to do the deal,” Daymond replies. No shark had ever chased after a potential deal. Daymond met with BJ and his wife, Sharon, in the waiting room, to convince the fitness instructor to take the deal. On the show, viewers watched the sharks grill BJ about why his father, Billy Blanks Sr. (Billy) wouldn’t help him establish his own fitness product line. His father had launched the most successful infomercial fitness product, TaeBo, a combination of tae kwon

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do and boxing set to music. “Some family structures are different,” BJ said when asked if his father had invested in his fitness product. “He’s making me earn it on my own.” For Billy Sr., the words—and the truth behind them—stung. “When I saw that episode of Shark Tank, it hit me in the face and it hurt,” he says. “I couldn’t help my son at that time because we weren’t communicating.” Today BJ has two gyms and a large fitness following, with thousands of instructors teaching his renamed Dance It Out classes. He’s also reconciled with his father, who was the first to blow up the workout infomercial more than 20 years ago with TaeBo. TAEBO TAKES OFF Billy Blanks Sr. started TaeBo in 1989, when he was retiring from martial arts competition at the age of 34. TaeBo was something of a fitness revolution and a precursor to hugely popular mixed martial arts and the UFC that we know today. But TaeBo got there first, based on Billy’s high-energy infomercials. He became a multimillionaire due to the massive sales of his DVDs.

“I was ahead of my time, putting together music, martial arts, rhythm and boxing,” Billy says. “My goal was to appeal to women more than men. I’ve always believed that every woman has a warrior within, but they don’t always know how to unleash it.” Billy’s large studio gym on Ventura Boulevard in Sherman Oaks turned into the hottest day club in Southern California. People lined up outside the doors and around the block to take classes from instructors who included Billy and his daughter Shellie. In the early years, BJ taught there too. “I’d stop doing TaeBo while I was teaching, and I’d start dancing. That wasn’t considered a workout at the time. My father would come up to me after my class and say, ‘What were you doing?’” After the infomercials, TaeBo became so successful that Billy Blanks Sr. was able to build a multimillion-dollar, custom-designed home in the gated community of Hidden Hills. Meanwhile his son stopped teaching TaeBo and headed to New York to pursue musical theatre, struggling to make ends meet. At the height of his popularity, Billy walked away. He moved to Japan, where

TaeBo is enormously popular and left his studio in the hands of some relatives (who eventually moved it to another location and renamed it). FITNESS FISSURE When BJ was young, he had a natural talent for karate, winning tournaments. His father was proud of these accomplishments. “But I didn’t love it,” BJ says. “I was ignited when I watched Michael Jackson, Paula Abdul and Janet Jackson perform.” In New York, BJ eventually won the lead role in the musical, Fame, which toured internationally, returning for a national tour in 1999. “My father wasn’t supportive when I changed my career path, but he has since apologized for not supporting me.” After the run of Fame, BJ moved back to LA, and began teaching Dance with Me classes at a large gym in Sherman Oaks. “Everyone went crazy for it,” BJ says, instructing sold-out classes of more than a hundred participants. What his fans and followers didn’t know was that BJ was only being paid $30 a class. He and Sharon had a child, Elijah, but they couldn’t afford a place to live, and so they moved into the 777 Motor Inn close to the gym so BJ didn’t need a car to get to work. “I decided I was going to quit teaching workout classes and go back to working in restaurants where I could make a decent living,” BJ says. “Just as I was about to announce this at the end of a packed class to my most loyal followers, a woman walked up to me. ‘I’m a cutter,’ she said. ‘And I don’t cut on the days when I take your class.’ She showed me the scars on her forearms. ‘Please don’t ever quit.’” BJ was taken aback at the impact he could have on people. Instead of quitting, he decided to go on Shark Tank, prompted by 7-year-old Elijah’s suggestion.

BJ’s appearance on Shark Tank, he was moved to tears, and he wrote his son a letter. “I love my son,” Billy says. “And I did not want to leave this Earth without spending more time with him.” The father agreed to the sharks’ deal. Today BJ has two workout studios—one in Sherman Oaks and the other in Greenwich, Connecticut, where he and his staff teach Dance It Out classes. He also has more than 1,000 accredited instructors in the U.S., as well as another 1,000 internationally, part of the deal he struck with the sharks. Not only do the father and son spend family time together, they both teach classes at

Blanks Studio in Sherman Oaks—a facility BJ opened with two business partners in 2014. Locals can take BJ’s dance or Billy’s TaeBo classes. The senior Blanks hopes to open his own studio next year. “If it hadn’t been for Shark Tank, that may not have happened,” Billy says. “Sometimes you become so blind that you aren’t able to see what’s happening around you.” The Shark Tank appearance gave Billy the opportunity to see himself reflected in his son’s pain, and so he reached out to BJ to apologize and reconcile. “Everything’s come full circle,” says BJ. “It’s the coolest thing.” ■

SOMETIMES YOU HAVE TO DANCE IT OUT After BJ’s Shark Tank appearance, Daymond and Mark called Billy Sr. to make sure that he wouldn’t sue BJ if he used his real name, Billy Blanks Jr., on his product. BJ’s father hung up on the sharks. “Daymond called me and said he couldn’t put up the money because he was afraid my father would sue him,” BJ says. “Then Mark called and said, ‘Let your father sue me. I’m a billionaire. I want to go forward with this project.’” BJ thinks his father misunderstood what the sharks were asking. After Billy Sr. saw

“Everything’s come full circle. It’s the coolest thing.”

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The World’s Most Fascinating Women. They tell all on the SheSez podcast with Linda Grasso. Learn how their bold, innovative—and sometimes badass—moves put them on the path to personal fulfillment. Tune in to SheSez on Apple Podcasts with new episodes debuting each Tuesday. For more, go to SheSez.com.

IMMERSIVE WELLNESS Hit the wellness reset button and create the ultimate full-day itinerary at Terranea Resort for a complete mind, body and spirit restoration. WRITTEN BY JENNIE NUNN

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8:30 A.M. REVIVE AND RENEW SEASIDE CYCLE AND YOGA Start the day with a low-impact workout while listening to energizing tunes. The Seaside Cycle class, held at the Fitness Center’s ocean front terrace (think sweeping ocean views), is intended for all levels. Afterwards, restore mind balance and gently stretch tired, achy muscles with Seaside Yoga. Combining thoughtful body postures and breathing exercises, the class is designed to eliminate stress and promote flexibility. Finish by setting an intention for the day and drift away with a few minutes of mindful meditation.

12:30 P.M. NOURISH SPA CAFÉ Grab a seat by the fire pit (or a lounge chair or cabana by the pool) and choose from healthful selections such as a poke bowl with sustainablysourced Atlantic salmon, brown rice, house-pickled ginger and fried shallots; or a Green Crunch salad with black kale, green apples, asparagus, avocado, sunflower seeds and pomegranate vinaigrette. For other clean options, try the caprese sandwich on toasted whole-wheat ciabatta with roasted Roma tomatoes, basil, a bit of burrata and balsamic glaze; or the spinach chickpea curry with tomatoes, brown rice, toasted naan, yogurt and cilantro.

2 P.M. EXPLORE GUIDED COASTAL HIKE The Palos Verdes coastline is one of the most postcard-worthy in Southern California, with views of Catalina Island and sea life spanning whales and dolphins. It’s also home to countless wildflowers, native plants, birds and butterflies. Get in tune with nature and experience a twohour guided hike with designated viewing stops including the Point Vicente Lighthouse and the Terranea Sea Salt Conservancy. Learn about the local residents including birds such as the California gnatcatcher and Allen’s hummingbird, and the El Segundo blue butterfly.

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3:30 P.M. REJUVENATE INSIDE & OUT As the name implies, this mind and body journey is replete with contrast therapy and mineralizing clay to accelerate detoxification. The ritual commences with an herbal wrap followed by a temperature-cooling friction scrub. Next enjoy a warming session in the in-suite infrared sauna, followed by a cooling, invigorating rinse in a Swiss shower. Conclude with an application of red algae moisturizerâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a mineral-rich antioxidant containing vitamin B12 with benefits from hydration to healing and improving skin function.

5:30 P.M. FABULOUS FINISH THE SALON Finish your day looking your best. The talented stylists in the salon provide you with a perfect polish or hair service that makes the day complete. Radiant, relaxed and refreshed!

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MAY/JUNE 2018 | VENTURA BLVD

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the sauce

MAN & MACHINE

A new, private bar is just part of the revamp at Scratch | Bar & Kitchen in Encino. For details, go to page 52.

The six office dwellers on a late-morning donut run turn around in unison and blink. Yes indeed, the menacing visage on the pink box at Trejo’s Coffee & Donuts belongs to the guy standing behind them, quietly waiting to order a dozen. Danny Trejo may be famous for playing the heavy in films such as Heat, Machete and From Dusk Till Dawn, but he is not the kind of guy who cuts the line, even when he owns the joint. The eatery is Trejo’s Cantina in Woodland Hills, the latest and largest addition to the actor’s fast-growing empire of LA spots specializing in tacos and donuts—two casual, handheld foods that can be endlessly transformed into distinct personali-

Fame, Fortune and Fajitas

Danny Trejo’s life story has more unexpected twists than a movie plot, but it begins and ends in the Valley. WRITTEN BY MICHALENE BUSICO | PHOTOGRAPHED BY KREMER JOHNSON GROOMING BY CAT SHERWIN

ties—the character actors of cuisine. In fact, the restaurant idea was hatched on the set of Bad Ass, when producer Ash Shah noticed Danny’s love of good food. “He said, ‘Danny, why don’t you open a restaurant?”’ the actor recalls. “And jokingly I said, ‘Yeah, Trejo’s Tacos,’ because I love tacos. Then he came to me with a business plan.” With a third partner, Jeff Georgino, they debuted Trejo’s Tacos on La Brea Boulevard in 2016. It took off. “In four weeks, we had bigger lines than Pink’s!” he says, referring to the iconic LA hotdog stand. “So we said, ‘OK, let’s open another one.”’ Now in less than two years, there are Trejo’s Cantinas in Hollywood, Pasadena, USC Village and Woodland Hills, a Trejo’s Coffee & Donuts in Hollywood and plans for six more locations. Every item on the Cantina menu, developed by executive chef Mason Royal, is vetted by Trejo, who is especially proud of the vegan and glutenfree dishes. Along with the tender, shredded brisket tacos and bowls of Sunday menudo, there are vegan jackfruit burritos and light,

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spicy shrimp bowls. The vegan roasted cauliflower taco with grilled corn, pickled red onions and cashew cream was one of the Los Angeles Times Top 10 Recipes of 2017. “I show up here a couple times a week because I love the food and it’s healthy,” says Danny, looking fit in a black T-shirt and grey suit. “I went from 195 pounds—I cut out carbs and sugar and dropped 30 pounds—to 165. Not bad for 73 years old!” From the beginning, Danny was eager to open a Valley location. He lives in Mission Hills and grew up in Pacoima, where his father worked in construction and his mother was a homemaker who dreamed of opening a restaurant. As for the actor himself, “I just ran the streets,” he says. “I think drugs and alcohol were the biggest parts of my life.” The story of how he went from being a child drug addict to serving time at California’s toughest prisons to becoming one of Hollywood’s most successful character actors and activists will be the subject of a documentary, to be released later this year. It’s titled Inmate #1, after the role Danny most often played early in his career. His turning point came in 1968 when he joined a 12-step program in prison and got sober. “Since I got out in 1969, I have dedicated my life to helping other people,” says Danny, who volunteers with autism groups, animal rescue organizations, and as a drug counselor and speaker. “I honestly believe that when people getting out of prison help other people, they can stay out. They have a purpose.” In 1985, he was called to the set of the film Runaway Train to support someone in recovery. The screenwriter, Eddie Bunker, recognized Danny as a champion boxer in San Quentin, where they both served time, and asked him to coach the actor Eric Roberts. He was added to the film as an extra, and since then, Danny’s life has become something that amazes even the man living it: hundreds of film and television credits, including the Netflix documentary released earlier this year, Survivors Guide to Prison. He has three children and a home in Mission Hills, with an eight-car garage filled with collector cars. “I’ve always been a car guy,” he says. “I have to laugh at guys like Jay Leno—they buy all those cars done. We buy them as shells and build them from the frame up. I’m at Chubby’s Automotive on San Fernando Road every time I’ve got a day off!” He owns eight lowriders, but the prize of the collection is his blue 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. “It looks like it just came out of American

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TREJO’S TOWN

Danny’s three favorite Valley spots Los Tres Hermanos Restaurant “My favorite restaurant in the Valley is Tres Hermanos, the three brothers,” Danny says of this casual spot serving classic Mexican fare, and part of a local small chain. “It’s just the best Mexican food, OK?” OK! 1049 San Fernando Road, San Fernando, 818.837.4600; lostreshermanos.com Magaly’s Tamales & Mexican Grill “One of the biggest tamale shops in the San Fernando Valley,” says Danny, who is considering buying Magaly’s and combining it with a new outpost of Trejo’s Cantina. “These tamales are legendary and delicious, and I also go here to eat dinner.” 134 N. Maclay Avenue, San Fernando, 818.837.3524; magalysmexicangrill.com Chubby’s Automotive “This is my favorite place to hang out,” says Danny, who spends so much time here working on his cars that he’s been mistaken for an employee. “Chubby is the most honest guy in the world—he treats every car like his own car. I used to take my cars to his dad when Chubby was like 12 years old.” 14960 Polk Street, Sylmar, 818.367.1859 —M.B.

Graffiti—chopped top, chrome and the trunk! The inside is painted with Jessica Alba, Michelle Rodriguez, all the women I’ve worked with in movies. So you open the trunk and it’s—wow!” On Sunday mornings, you can find him cruising Van Nuys Boulevard, just like he did when he was 16. “Everybody knows me when they see my car,” he says. “I go to San Fernando Park, where all the lowriders go on Sunday. We’re all big show offs.” One of his donuts, in fact, is named the Lowrider, a classic cinnamon-dusted creation with none of the wild customizing you find in flavors like the Nacho, topped with cheddar cheese, or the Hail Mary with tangy cajeta. The Lowrider is somewhere between a cake and yeasted donut, lightly eggy and not too sweet. And diet be damned, Danny devours one. ■

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Encinoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Home Away From Home

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Treasure Unearthed

Montrésor brings its unique flair for coupling food and design to Studio City. WRITTEN BY JOSHUA LURIE

A copper mannequin wears a stylish skirt suit, and an elaborate bouquet serves as her head. This is not exactly your typical restaurant greeting. But it is the first thing you’ll see upon entering Montrésor, a French restaurant that provides unique counterprogramming to Studio City’s plethora of contemporary-style sushi bars and bro-bait gastropubs. The brick building, which previously housed The Gadarene Swine, now touts a dining room with Venetian-style plaster walls, vintage furniture and gold tables. The owners fittingly named the eatery after a village in France’s Loire Valley that means “my treasure.” Montrésor is the result of a creative collaboration between Lisa Long, an actress and longtime restaurateur (Firenze Osteria), and partner/designer Ann Booth Luly, who owns the nearby Hoity-Toity boutique. The duo brought in veteran chef Paul Shoemaker to helm the kitchen. Paul is a

seasonally minded chef with some serious French culinary chops. He worked for legendary French chef Alain Ducasse in New York City and for Thomas Keller at restaurants like The French Laundry in Napa Valley. He joined acclaimed chef Michael Cimarusti at Providence in LA, before taking the lead at Bastide in West Hollywood and Savory in Malibu. Montrésor’s menu, as well as its wine roster, are rooted in France but allow for modern California flourishes. A plump Dungeness crab cake is bound with aioli and crushed saltines, and flavored with fines herbs and dried tomato. Each cake is plated with punchy New Zealand pepperberry and tangy Meyer lemon gastriques, remoulade and frisée. Entrees allow for more creativity. A flaky, crisp-skinned Rhode Island black bass fillet joins earthy artichoke puree, fragrant saffron jus, a quenelle of zingy tomato confit, black olive flakes, supreme Meyer lemon

from a neighbor’s tree, a drizzle of parsley pistou and twin puffs of lemon saffron foam. Somehow, Paul finds balance. Wagyu short rib luxuriates for three days in a sous vide water bath to tenderize. Slices are pan roasted with brown butter, garlic and thyme. A rosy row of meat is plated with buttery fingerling pommes puree, potato chips, shallot confit, miner’s lettuce and sticky Bordelaise. With black truffles in season, Paul dispatches his sous chef to provide some “flair” and fragrance. His culinary lieutenant asks how much truffle to shave and Paul quips, “Make it rain, like you’re in a truffle tornado.” Paul’s velvety housemade butterscotch panna cotta isn’t quite so fierce a force of nature, but trust me, you don’t want to miss this dessert. ■ 11266 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, 818-760-7081, montresor.la

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VENTURA BLVD | MAY/JUNE 2018

Raising the Bar Phillip Frankland Lee turns up the volume on Scratch|Bar & Kitchen. WRITTEN BY LINDA GRASSO PHOTOGRAPHED BY JAKOB N. LAYMAN

In recent years, there have been several noteworthy debuts along the Boulevard. From Girasole to The Bellwether to SOCA—there’s a level of creativity and sophistication never before seen here. But when it comes to guts, there is not a chef in the Valley right now who rivals Phillip Frankland Lee. The first salvo from the 31-year-old Valley native was opening the upscale Scratch|Bar & Kitchen in a gaudy, peach-hued Encino strip mall. That move was followed by launching Woodley Proper and then Frankland’s Crab & Co. in the same complex. Things really got interesting though with Sushi|Bar. Snag one of the eight seats and you are in for a 16-course “chef’s choice” meal. Diners don’t seem to bat an eyelash at the $110 per person cost (booze extra). As for the dishes, if you’ve seen it at a sushi bar before, you won’t find it here. Most of us are familiar with toasted sushi rice topped with chopped, spicy ahi—but with brown sugarbruleed sea urchin tongue and served aside a slice of foie gras that’s been cured in absinthe and sambuca? You get the picture. Turns out Phillip’s unconventional, highend concept works. “For me, being a chef is about change. I’m always making notes and constantly have ideas. I learned a lot by opening Sushi|Bar and basically I decided to

apply that to Scratch|Bar,” he says. The goal was clear: to amp up the tasting menu experience and the environs. That meant a swift goodbye to Frankland’s Crab & Co., with the space being used as a private cocktail lounge for Scratch|Bar. The glass façade of the restaurant was transformed into a solid wall, offering a more elegant, clubby vibe. The long bar fronting the open kitchen, with its large wood-fueled hearth, remains. For larger parties, there are now three oversized banquettes. While the lighting is properly dimmed in seating areas, the kitchen is brightly lit—and it’s hard to take your eyes off the show. The first act happens in the lounge. Diners are served two cocktails, each accompanied by a “snack.” We were enthralled with the bartender, who concocted drinks with unusual gadgets like a Victorian siphon coffee maker. The maître d’ circled back at just the right time to usher us into the dining room. Arrive at Scratch|Bar hungry and feeling adventurous. Phillip has expanded the tasting menu from a dozen to 20+ small courses ($145 per person; beverage pairings from $85). With a chef who admits to being something of a renegade, expect to be surprised and, at times, enlightened.

The drama quickly begins. The cast, meticulously attired in white aprons, is immersed in various tasks. One cook is obsessively checking a piece of dry-roasted cuttlefish. Another is carefully assembling roasted sweetbreads on a bed of chicken liver pâté. As one plate is placed in front of us, Phillip ambles over to grate truffles atop lightly steamed Japanese Hamachi, served with a gazpacho made out of celery root and anchovies. Presenting a variety of labor intensive dishes is a feat for any restaurant. What makes it all work here is careful pacing, allowing the right amount of time between plates. Phillip’s wife, pastry chef Margarita KallasLee, helms desserts, and she matches him step for step on inventiveness. For the final act, we spread a palate-bending triple crème ice cream on toasted brioche with smoked honey and chives. The menu will change based on seasonality and Phillip’s whim. Point of fact: an expansive, chef’s choice tasting menu isn’t for everyone. But if you are deep into food, Scratch|Bar can compete with any of the truly seminal culinary experiences—anywhere. ■ 16101 Ventura Blvd, Encino, 818-646-6085 Open Wednesday through Sunday; seatings available between 5:45 p.m. and 9:15 p.m.

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VENTURA BLVD | MAY/JUNE 2018

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ESCAPES

ENCHANTING ESCAPE Belmond El Encanto offers world-class luxury amidst a serene, stunning setting.

eed a rejuvenation vacation but can only spare a few days to unplug? Consider Belmond El Encanto, located an easy 70-mile drive north in Santa Barbara’s exclusive Riviera District—named for its likeness to the Mediterranean coast of France. Leave the Valley by late afternoon, and by sunset, you’ll be sipping fine wine on a private bungalow terrace overlooking the ocean. Rated five stars by Forbes in 2018 for the fifth consecutive year, the property offers world-class dining, unparalleled spa pampering and luxurious suites, nestled on seven acres of lush greenery, with sweeping views of the Santa Ynez Mountains and Pacific Ocean. The landmark—celebrating its centennial anniversary this year—was originally built as faculty housing for the University of California at Santa Barbara. In 1918, it was transformed into one of California’s premier resorts, quickly establishing itself as a favorite getaway for artists of the PleinAir School, as well as stars of Hollywood’s Golden Age, such as Hedy Lamarr, Clark Gable and Carole Lombard. In 2006, the property underwent an expansive $134 million renovation that lovingly preserved its original charm, while adding modern, plush amenities, including an infinity-edge, saltwater swimming pool, state-of-the-art fitness studio and exclusive spa, sourced with local products. Suites are furnished with king beds, and many boast private terraces and fireplaces.

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Bathrooms are marble with exquisite fixtures and heated stone floors. Start your day with a leisurely room service breakfast or an ambitious workout at the fitness center—perhaps a Belmont Burn or Encanto Flow class. Afterward, head to the pool, with temperatures maintained at a balmy 85°. Finish off by replenishing your senses at the spa. A Signature Scrub with citrus, basil and mint essential oils infused with an exclusive Himalayan salt blend, is an excellent option. Another must-try is the Signature Facial, which will leave your skin glowing, thanks to skin care products from sought-after Beverly Hill’s facialist Linda Ross. For supper, reserve a table in the elegant dining room or under the stars on the terrace, with sweeping views of the Pacific. Helmed by Executive Chef Johan Denizot, the restaurant’s seasonally inspired menu features local seafood and farmto-table produce. Don’t skip dessert; the decadent but light floating island has been a popular menu staple since 1929. The extensive wine list includes a vast selection from Santa Barbara’s historic Sanford Winery. Belmond El Encanto also hosts a monthly, winemaker dinner series, featuring a multicourse tasting menu and wine pairings. With so much to do and such delightful surroundings, it’s easy to stay put for an entire weekend. However if you do want a little adventure, there’s no need to hassle with driving or parking. Take one of the resort’s complimentary Faraday electric bicycles and cruise into town to explore

the shops on State Street or go for a ride down the hill to the historic Santa Barbara Mission. The property also provides free transportation within a five-mile radius, via its Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. A scenic, 90-minute drive up the 101, Belmond El Encanto is just a hop, skip and a jump from the Valley. However as most guests agree, once firmly ensconced at this magical oasis, you’ll feel a million miles away. For more on Belmond El Encanto in Santa Barbara, go to belmond.com.

LEAVE THE VALLEY BY LATE AFTERNOON, AND BY SUNSET, YOU’LL BE SIPPING FINE WINE ON A PRIVATE BUNGALOW TERRACE OVERLOOKING THE OCEAN. MAY/JUNE 2018 | VENTURA BLVD

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Modern Man Cave For TV producer Jay Renfroe, creating a dream home is all about breaking the rules. WRITTEN BY SUSAN SPILLMAN PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;DONNELL

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VENTURA BLVD | MAY/JUNE 2018

uring the three years that Jay Renfroe spent remodeling his 6,000-squarefoot Encino home, friends’ wives visited and just shook their heads. “They thought I was going to completely screw it up,” recalls Jay, a reality TV producer and co-founder of the Valley-based Renegade Entertainment Company (Blind Date, Naked and Afraid). The renovation, in the exclusive Royal Oaks neighborhood, was both massive and unconventional. Even Jay’s interior designer, Dennis Rosas of Dennis Rosas Designs, wondered why he “didn’t pick a different house,” given how all encompassing the overhaul was.

“The structure essentially looked like an ‘80s or ‘90s styrofoam Mediterranean. Nothing was authentic,” recalls Dennis. Situated on a half-acre lot just south of the Boulevard, the home was originally built in 1996 as a seven-bedroom, six-bath villa, flush with faux molding, tumbled limestone floors and lots of heavy, wrought iron. The large, flat lot was impressive; the expansive backyard had been used to shoot a pool party scene from the 2015 movie, Straight Outta Compton. The style didn’t appeal to Jay, but having lived for 15 years in the hills of Nichols Canyon, the convenient location and unique

GRUB HUB In an unusual twist, the freezer and the refrigerator are separated. Glass pendants over center island by Rejeuvenation; porcelain tile backsplash by Walker Zanger. Left: The staircase is a fusion of walnut and glass. Walls are faced with natural oak of split face wood that’s been painted white, “offering that texture that Jay is really drawn to,” shares designer Dennis Rosas. The circular chandelier is faceted with crystals.

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ENDLESS SUMMER The backyard patio area, which includes a full kitchen, is a popular gathering spot for Jay and his friends.

lot did. Not only was it completely flat, it was private. He swiftly set out to change virtually every aspect of the structure—creating the ultimate, modern man cave. There was lots of room swapping. There’s now a golf simulator (by Full Swing Golf) in what used to be the kitchen, a wine room in the former living room, and the guesthouse is now a home theatre. There’s also a gym, a spa that offers

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colored lighting based on your mood (red is for revving up; blue is for calm) and a swanky outdoor kitchen. “When I redid my last house, it was all about the resale and keeping in mind what a family would want,” Jay explains. “When I got here, I said, ‘Screw that. I’m just going to do a home for me.’ Once you make that decision, it’s so much easier because you just think

about how you spend your time.” Decisions may have been easier, but certainly not the actual metamorphosis. The first floor was a “puzzle,” according to Jay. To achieve an open, contemporary feel, the narrow hallway and several interior walls were demolished. The kitchen was also moved to the opposite side of the house. “The old kitchen felt as if it was on the wrong side of

the house; it was far from the dining room. Plus, I wanted the kitchen to open up to the outdoor area. That isolated area worked much better for the golf simulator. “Accommodating the simulator’s technology, which includes multiple cameras and lasers, required dropping the floor 3 feet, a hassle ‘well worth the outcome,’” says Jay. Not only has his golf game improved, but the

room is a focal point for entertaining his buddies. Naturally it also includes a flat screen TV (usually tuned to football), a bar, two refrigerators and an ice machine. In the hands of the average bachelor, creating the ultimate man cave might have turned tacky. But under the guidance of Dennis, Jay was able to cohesively combine his passions and lifestyle with Architectural

Digest taste. “Jay and I both like texture. So it was a lot about integrating that into the interiors. And it was about achieving balance and repetition. Every room has modern elements,” says Dennis. Every door and window was changed out; the limestone flooring was replaced with custom 9.5 inches by 8 feet European

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oak planks, washed in a “sea smoke” hue by DuChâteau Hardwood. Coffer ceilings, walnut cabinetry, an array of wall and cabinet textures, tiles and unique light fixtures were also artfully incorporated. Among the most striking textures generously used throughout is a unique geometric weave pattern of natural wood, lacquered with three coats of white paint from Johnson Hardwood. The most challenging project: demolishing the circular, iron scrollwork staircase and replacing it with a spectacular, walnut and glass structure with lights inset on every step. The original wrought iron chandelier hanging above the staircase in the foyer was swapped for a statement, three-tier LED chandelier that features matte white rings lined with clear, crystal-faceted squares. Jay also exchanged the former palate of brown, rust and burgundy for more modern and subtle hues of grey, black, white

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and navy. The only exceptions are in the guest bedrooms, specially designed for Jay’s Atlanta-based mother and sister. Jay included each in the decorating process of their rooms, using their favorite colors (purple and turquoise respectively) and giving them input on furniture choices. A decked-to-the-hilt outdoor kitchen was also constructed. It includes a fireplace, bar, grill and separate smoker, where Jay’s brother, a competitive barbecue chef, works his magic. Fans and heaters were discreetly tucked into the ceiling. Future backyard plans call for adding a putting green and cabana, and retiling the pool. The home’s original Mediterranean ivycovered architecture, however, will stay as is. Despite its incongruity with the rest of the home, “I like it,” says Jay, “and it’s fun to break the rules.” ■

HOLE IN THE WALL Clockwise: Jay enjoying his golf simulation room; the far end of the golf room features a handsome seating area with red leather chairs, looking out onto the pool and backyard; the screening room

Tragedy shakes a local school, bringing the Valley community together to understand the loss and navigate the future.Â

WRITTEN BY KAREN YOUNG | ILLUSTRATED BY CHRISTINE GEORGIADES

n the first day of February at The Buckley School in Sherman Oaks, celebration was in the air. Just two days away from a gala event celebrating its 85th anniversary, preparations were well underway. Then everything changed. “I received a text from a colleague at around 9:30 a.m. saying that one of our students had died and to come to the front office,” explains school counselor Mara Tapia. An eighth grade student, Elliot, had taken his own life. He was just four days shy of his 14th birthday. He did not leave a note. “We were all devastated and in shock,” recalls Tapia. “We’re a small school; Elliot wasn’t on anyone’s radar as having any kind of issues.” Sally Sacon, Buckley’s Director of Communications, had been Elliot’s advisor when he was in seventh grade. She was stunned, remembering his kind smile, sense of humor, and strong relationship with family and friends. The teen’s own family concurs: the tragedy came out of the blue. “We essentially had no warning signs,” says Elliot’s father, in a poignant phone conversation six weeks following his son’s death. “He had a normal teen life, lots of friends, was on the varsity soccer team, did well in school and didn’t seem to pressure himself.” For Buckley, it was a first. School officials say they’ve never had a student die by suicide. However across the nation, the numbers tell a different story, with teen suicide emerging as a major public health issue. A 2016 study by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals teen suicide has doubled since 2007. It is the third leading cause of death for the ages of 10 to 14 and the second leading cause for ages 15 to 24. In the immediate after hours, the school administration moved quickly. With a student body that includes kindergarteners, they desperately needed to get in front of the story. “We knew we had to get ahead of social media and communicate the news to parents and students at the same time,” says Sacon. Head of School, James Busby, elaborates, “Our most important consideration was the students. We wanted them to encounter this very big life event with as much support as possible but with honest messages and developmental appropriateness because we are a K through 12 school.”

“Watching them together, I have to say, has been incredibly sweet and poignant—even in their saddest moments, they’ve been able to lean on each other, to process and wonder, to laugh and cry together. In many ways, I think they’ve been able to comfort one another in ways that adults couldn’t.” —GREGG SACON

School officials immediately learned two critical safe messaging points: one, not to fly the flag at half-mast, as that kind of attention could lead to a “contagion effect;” and two, never use the term “committed suicide,” as that implies a crime. The “correct” or better way to put it is “died (or death) by suicide.” Busby quickly sent an email to parents that an eighth grade student “passed away during the night unexpectedly.” It would be the first in a series of emails over two weeks that would keep the school community informed about plans and counseling resources. Tapia coordinated the effort to break the news to each grade. Students who had previously experienced tragic deaths were pulled out of class and individually told, so that their reactions could be gauged. It was Tapia, a licensed, clinical social worker, who was given the responsibility to inform Elliot’s fellow eighth graders. Closing her eyes to recall that moment, Tapia takes a deep breath. “We weren’t initially able to tell the students how he died because we didn’t have permission … I prefaced by saying that Buckley is a very close-knit community, like a family, and we experience lots of different things, and this time I was there to let them know that one of their friends had died.” Minutes later the school was given permission to disclose that Elliot had died by suicide. Tapia describes how the adults in the room sat in groups with the students, who were exhibiting a range of reactions and emotions. “We were there to talk, to hug or just sit silently with them.” Meanwhile, Lisa Turchan, Buckley’s CFO, emailed colleagues at nearby private schools with the news. “The response was instantaneous and overwhelming. Every school was willing to help in any way,” says Turchan. “They sent

letters to their parents with tools to help them deal with the tragedy as well.” Flowers and cards came flowing in for Buckley’s faculty and staff. The Oaks School, where Elliot attended K-6 grade, immediately reached out to his family to provide meals, and The Buckley School sent lunch to The Oaks faculty. The gala was postponed, and homework was put on hold for over a week. Psychologists and counselors from over a dozen private schools immediately called to see how they could help. “I met with 10th, 11th, and 12th graders and facilitated conversations to help process their feelings,” explains Michelle Bracken, a counselor at Harvard-Westlake. “The discussions took different paths, as each student was dealing with the loss differently.” Dr. Lee Herzog, a psychologist from Brentwood School, met with students as well as a group of elementary school parents, who discussed the “trials and tribulations that this parent body faces regarding how to talk, process and think with their young children about the suicide.” He adds, “I felt it was a special day to connect with this community because we are all facing these potential issues.” Curtis School also reached out, providing breakfast for the Buckley faculty in the first few days. “We wanted to do something to help the staff as well as the students,” says school psychologist Dr. Kavita Ajmere, who spent two of the initial days at Buckley, meeting with students to help them process their feelings. And support came from other sources as well. Buckley’s insurance company, United Educators, sent dedicated crisis and grief counselors the next day and over the following two weeks, providing a total of 300 counseling hours for students, parents

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PREVENTION HOTLINES National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255 Crisis Text Line 741741

California Youth Crisis Line 1-800-843-5200

Teen Line at Cedars-Sinai 1-310-855-4673 Crisis Text Line 839863 teenlineonline.org

and staff. Teen Line, a hotline and outreach program affiliated with Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, sent more than a dozen trained adult facilitators to meet with students and also to present a professional development workshop on teen suicide. “After the first day, we were able to have enough counselors here for our students to meet individually or in small groups. Our campus was turned into a grief-counseling center for students (as well as staff and parents), with rooms set aside for the purpose,” says Turchan. Lauren Schneider, Clinical Director of Child & Adolescent Programs at Our House, a Los Angeles-based grief support and education center, arrived with counselors on the Monday following the tragedy to meet with Elliot’s core friend group; the friends of Elliot’s older brother (who also attends Buckley); and to lead a parent/guardian information session. Sally Sacon’s husband, Gregg Sacon, the Assistant Head of Middle School and a math teacher, says he spent a great deal of time with Elliot’s friends in the days and weeks following the suicide. “Watching them together, I have to say, has been incredibly sweet and poignant—even in their saddest moments, they’ve been able to lean on each other, to process and wonder, to laugh and cry together. In many ways, I think they’ve been able to comfort one another in ways that adults couldn’t.” “For a teenager, a relationship to a peer is equal or more important than family. Their

relationships and identity to peers is crucial for preparing themselves for their future in terms of adulthood,” Schneider adds. “When a best friend dies, it’s a serious loss that influences them for the rest of their lives. For these children, you don’t want the loss of their best friend to be the story of their lives. We worked with Elliot’s friends to learn how to express their grief and discuss what they could do to honor their friend.” Elliot’s closest friends organized a remembrance service at Buckley and invited the entire community. Attendees included parents and students from every division, as well as Elliot’s family—two sets of parents, brother, eight grandparents and a handful of cousins. Counselors attended to help students who were struggling. “Elliot was a good friend to his friends. At the memorial, his friends got up and spoke about how caring, kind and funny he was ... and that he was always there when they needed him, and they only wish that they could have been there for him,” recalls his father. At an evening meeting conducted by Schneider and the counselors from Our House, parents were trying to make sense of what had happened. In Elliot’s case, there were no typical signs; he was not bullied or academically stressed and did not appear depressed. “Ninety percent of people who end their lives meet criteria for major depression— which is considered a ‘disease of the brain,’” states Schneider. “On the other hand, ‘episodic depression’ can come on suddenly.

“When a best friend dies, it’s a serious loss that influences them for the rest of their lives. For these children, you don’t want the loss of their best friend to be the story of their lives.” —LAUREN SCHNEIDER

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Most children are resilient, but some are more delicate and succumb to the pressures of a depressive episode that results in a suicide.” She is quick to point out that in Elliot’s case, no one will probably ever know the motivation behind his actions. Cheryl Eskin, Teen Line program director, adds, “Sometimes teens don’t want us to know they are struggling or are very good at hiding it, which is hard and scary. It’s important for parents to talk about tough subjects early and often and make sure kids have a trusted adult or outlet, even if it’s not the parent.” She further explains that teens can also be impulsive and not always think through the consequences of their actions. “A lot of teens haven’t developed coping skills or ways to deal when things don’t go their way; it’s important as parents to teach our kids these skills and not to rush in to fix every little problem.” She notes that parents should monitor and set limits for a child’s cell phone and social media usage, so it is not their only “social” interaction. And in turn, “Parents should also monitor their own use, so they can role model and talk about how what you see online isn’t always reality,” stresses Eskin. She also advises not letting kids sleep with phones in their rooms at night. Calabasas-based psychotherapist Stacy Kaiser emphasizes that open communication is key with all children. She recommends encouraging them to start conversations when they are in a relaxed state, perhaps on a car ride or over dinner—rather than when they have just walked in the door. Talk to them about their friends and what they might be hearing and seeing, making sure to note any changes in behavior. Busby has set plans in motion to integrate suicide prevention within the parent education curriculum, and to introduce peer awareness training and mentoring into the affective (non-academic) curriculum. As part of the healing process, Buckley’s newspaper, The Student Voice, included a special color insert with loving tributes and these words in bold print: “Elliot is fondly remembered as a son, a brother, a friend and a member of the Buckley community.” Speaking for Elliot’s entire family, his father praised the respect given his son. “We’ve been embraced in a way we haven’t seen before and couldn’t imagine. We received loving, caring messages, that are uncommonly generous and thoughtful.” ■

On the Front Line When tragedy struck at her own school, Buckley School senior Taylor Shabani, a trained suicide prevention volunteer, sprang into action. WRITTEN BY RACHEL HELLER ZAIMONT

Taylor Shabani remembers the morning she and her classmates learned the awful news. She was in the middle of AP U.S. Government when school officials asked each grade to report to separate assembly rooms. Gathered together with her fellow Buckley School 12th graders, she heard that an eighth grader had taken his life. “The room fell silent,” recalls Taylor, 18. Once the news sunk in, “I was bawling on the floor for a good hour.” Taylor’s reaction surprised her, since she volunteers once a week as a trained listener at Teen Line, the teen-to-teen support hotline based at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. “I’ve been faced with listening to the worst of the worst. But until this moment, suicide was a notion, not a reality I had experience with,” she says. “All I could think in my head was, ‘He could have called and gotten help.’ I wished there was something I could have done to prevent it.” Taylor began volunteering at Teen Line as a high school freshman. Her parents had recently divorced and despite a background she calls “privileged,” she felt as though she was thrust into maturity at a disorienting pace. “I didn’t grow up in a bubble. I knew what going through pain meant and I knew what coping meant,” she says. “I felt I could be a voice for other teens.” Taylor underwent intensive training at Cedars, learning how to communicate safely with anguished callers and steer them toward life-saving mental health resources. She heads to the hospital every Thursday evening for a fivehour shift. After listening, Taylor responds with a twofold mission— to make sure they are not in immediate danger and to convince them they should want to live. “I try to find the little part of them inside that wants to stay alive and encourage that part,” she explains. In the hours after the announcement, Taylor sprang into action. She called her supervisor, Jenny Pascal, and helped coordinate a visit to Buckley from Teen Line’s outreach wing. The next day about a dozen facilitators visited the Buckley School campus, leading group discussions on how to process grief. “Taylor is mature and responsible beyond her years,” Jenny notes. “She possesses a natural sense of compassion and empathy that shone through to all who worked with her.” Taylor also contributed a personal touch to the healing effort. She and a friend put up posters around the Buckley campus, bearing the message “You are loved.” “It’s okay to not be okay,” says Taylor. “There is someone who cares.” ■

L to R: Matt D. Hershcovitch, MD Bob B. Armin, MD Alen N. Cohen, MD, FACS, FARS Vera D. Cecilio, MD Michael S. Reder, MD

The C/V ENT Surgical Group was founded by Dr. Alen Cohen 10 years ago in West Hills and has since grown to two offices and five physicians with various expertise within the field. The practice only uses state-of-theart diagnostic equipment, such as an in-office sinus CT scanner, various endoscopes or audiologic testing capabilities, to accurately diagnose and then initiate the treatment plan necessary for patients’ complex problems.”

PRO FILES

top doctors Quality of life is important to all of us, and in order to achieve that we need to be healthyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;physically, mentally and emotionally. Thankfully we have a high caliber of talent and resources here in the Valley to achieve health goals and meet needs. Whether you are seeking assistance with a specific health challenge or simply want to live at optimum levels, the Valley practitioners on these pages are here to provide you with the very best in care and expertise. Consider this special profiles section an important resource guide to be kept at your fingertips throughout the entire year.

C/V ENT SURGICAL GROUP

JAY B. REZNICK, DMD, MD Southern California Center for Oral and Facial Surgery

FACEY MEDICAL GROUP

ALI NAMAZIE, MD

CARLOS A. GUANCHE, MD Southern California Orthopedic Institute

HUSAM ELIAS, MD Southern California Center for Surgical Arts

KARIN ADONI BEN-DAVID

ALI SADRIEH, DPM Evo Advanced Foot Surgery

STEPHANIE WOLFF, PA-C Novus Anti-Aging Center

GENE RUBINSTEIN, MD Dermatology and Laser Centre

DR. MICHAEL ABDULIAN ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY

JEFFREY B. GLASER, MD Glaser Pain Relief Center

ANNA D. GUANCHE, MD Bella Skin Institute

ANDREW T. COHEN, MD

WRITTEN BY LAURA WATTS PHOTOGRAPHED BY TAMEKA JACOBS & MONICA OROZCO

top doctors

C/V ENT Surgical Group 7345 Medical Center Dr., Suite 510 West Hills 818-888-7878 16500 Ventura Blvd., Suite 420 Encino 818-986-1200 cvsurgicalgroup.com

“We have state-of-the-art offices that have been newly renovated and are clean and comfortable. We utilize the most cutting-edge diagnostic, endoscopic and audiologic testing equipment.”

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/V ENT Surgical Group is an ear, nose and throat practice comprised of five board-certified physicians in two locations who provide highly specialized, comprehensive care for patients of all ages. Each physician has a subspecialty within the ENT and facial plastic surgery field. Services include nose/sinus and allergy care; ear and balance disorder management; snoring and sleep apnea surgery; throat and voice care; head and neck cancer surgery; thyroid and parathyroid surgery; and facial plastic/reconstructive and cosmetic surgery. Tell us about your doctors. “Dr. Alen Cohen is CEO and founder of the group and focuses on advanced nose and sinus surgery with procedures such as deviated septum repair, turbinate reduction, nasal fracture repair and endoscopic sinus surgery. He is also regarded as the West Coast expert for in-office balloon sinuplasty, turbinate reduction and image-guided endoscopic sinus surgery under local anesthesia in less than 30 minutes in the office. He is presently chief of surgery at West Hills Hospital & Medical Center and is a clinical assistant professor of surgery at UCLA. He has also been named a Los Angeles Magazine Super Doctor for five years in a row and a Castle Connolly nationwide Super Doctor since 2017. Dr. Bob Armin has been with the group for the last five years and focuses on general pediatric and adult ENT as well as advanced surgical management of head and neck tumors, including thyroid and parathyroid surgery. He is also a clinical assistant professor of surgery with UCLA and weekly trains residents in the art of ENT/head and neck surgery at Olive View Medical Center. Dr. Matt Hershcovitch joined the group three years ago and not only is double board-certified in ENT/head and neck surgery but also is a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon. He focuses on the cosmetic aspects of ENT, regulary performing primary and revision rhinoplasty, face and neck lift procedures, blepharoplasty and many of the noninvasive aspects of facial cosmetic surgery such as Botox, fillers and laser treatment. He routinely manages facial fractures, as well as facial defects due to skin cancer treatment. He is known for doing many procedures in the office under local anesthesia with little or no downtime, which patients love.

Dr. Michael Reder has been in practice for more than 35 years in the San Fernando Valley and joined the group about three years ago. He presently practices two days a week, focusing on general pediatric and adult ENT. He is highly regarded in the community for his compassion, excellent bedside manner, great work and humility. Dr. Vera Cecilio has been in practice for more than 35 years, both in the Sherman Oaks and Tarzana regions. She joined the group a year and half ago and focuses on general ENT and facial plastics with significant experience performing many in-office procedures like Botox and fillers. She is highly known for her great bedside manner and followup of her long-time patients.” How does your staff support you? “Our staff members are excellent at what they do, and they truly go above and beyond to help patients feels comfortable in our offices and answer any of their questions and concerns. Each one is a critical part of our larger C/V family and always strives to make the patient experience second to none.” What new procedure do you want to showcase? “In-office balloon sinuplasty has revolutionized the field of ENT and has allowed us to treat many more patients for recurrent nasal obstruction, congestion, sinus infections, sinus headaches and sinus pressure with a simple procedure that takes 20 to 30 minutes under local anesthesia. Patients are amazed at how easily the procedure is performed and how they are back to normal activity the next day. They love the fact that there is no packing, no downtime, usually no need for pain medications, and it is often covered by insurance or Medicare. We have been designated as the only Entellus Center of Excellence in the San Fernando Valley. Dr. Cohenroutinely trains other doctors around the country in properly performing this procedure and has personally done more than 2,000 procedures in the office.” What is special about your offices? “We have state-of-the-art offices that have been newly renovated and are clean and comfortable. At each office we utilize the most cutting-edge diagnostic, endoscopic and audiological testing equipment and we have an in-office sinus mini-CT scan in our West Hills location.”

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

L to R: Bob B. Armin, MD Matt D. Hershcovitch, MD Alen N. Cohen, MD, FACS, FARS

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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top doctors

Facey Medical Group 18133 Ventura Blvd., Suite 204 Tarzana 818-466-7700 Facey.com/tarzana

“What makes Facey stand out is our commitment to convenient, high-touch, cost-effective care.”

acey Medical Group, which consists of 160 physicians in a wide variety of clinical specialties, opened the doors of its newest office in Tarzana in 2017, offering primary and specialist care in a modern, welcoming space. The eight physicians at the office offer adult medicine, pediatrics, OB/GYN and rheumatology. Dr. Dafna Trites is an OB/GYN who grew up in the San Fernando Valley and joined Facey in 2016 after 17 years at a private practice in Northridge. She has worked in health care for more than 20 years. Dr. Mina Moussavian-Assadi is a pediatrician who hails from Boston, where she practiced for 13 years before moving to Southern California to join the Facey team. She received her medical training at the University of Montpellier School of Medicine in France and served her residency at the Monmouth Medical Center in New Jersey. Dr. Jeffrey Shukhman completed his residency training at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. As an osteopathic internal medicine physician, he uses manipulative medicine to treat common musculoskeletal complaints in addition to standard medical treatments, focusing on total body/comprehensive care. What would you like readers to know about Facey Medical Group? “What makes Facey stand out is our commitment to convenient, high-touch, costeffective care. Facey Medical Group is part of the larger Providence St. Joseph Health system, which enables our physicians to provide coordinated care from the exam room all the way to the hospital bed. We’ve built great relationships with local specialists and can connect you to them when expert care is needed. We also have the distinction of being voted best medical group by readers of the Los Angeles Daily News and the Santa Clarita Signal every year since 2009.” How does your practice differ from others? Dr. Moussavian-Assadi: “Our pediatric group at Facey Tarzana has the feel of a private practice, with two experienced pediatricians and the luxury of on-site access to ancillary services such as laboratory, imaging and specialists within the same network.” Dr. Trites: “We provide up-to-date, expert, compassionate care utilizing our state-of-theart, beautiful new office, the latest technology and extended office hours. It’s so exciting to be able to use our electronic medical record to instantly order tests, prescriptions, print out recommendations and know about any

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other visits patients have had throughout Facey. Our online portal, My Chart, allows patients to communicate with us efficiently and directly, often resulting in immediate care. As an OB/GYN physician at Facey, I am empowered to be able to care for my patients better than I ever have in my 20+ year career.” Why is having a primary care physician so important? Dr. Shukhman: “Every patient needs a quarterback in their corner. Fragmented care leads to trouble getting the help you need, when you need it. Someone needs to be in charge of putting all the puzzle pieces together, and I like being that person.” What would you like potential patients to know about you? Dr. Moussavian-Assadi: “I firmly believe in establishing strong bonds—not only with my patients but with their parents as well, helping create an environment that nurtures open communication and education so patients and their families feel comfortable and confident in their care and treatment. I consider myself an extension of my patient’s family. Being a parent of a child with special needs has raised my level of compassion for all my patients, and I try to help patients and parents by being their advocate through their emotional or physical challenges.” Dr. Shukhman: “I’m genuinely attentive. It is important to listen to a patient in order to find the true reasons for their ailments and figure out the right approach to their care. I keep it interactive. I believe in joint decisionmaking with all my patients. What works for one person may not always work for another. It is important to take into account a patient’s individual beliefs while making an informed decision about how to best treat their concerns.” Dr. Trites: “OB/GYN is such a broad, exciting field of medicine. I love seeing all the different generations of women, delivering babies and performing such diverse types of surgery as C-sections, robotic-assisted laparoscopy, urologic and reconstructive surgery. My passion for many years, however, has been in helping women navigate through the enormous changes of menopause. I provide expert education, advice and treatment to menopausal women, based on the latest research and recommendations. My greatest joy is in helping empower women to feel vibrant and healthy and proactively lay the foundation for the most optimal second half of their lives!”

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

MAY/JUNE 2018 | VENTURA BLVD

top doctors

Ali Namazie, MD 4955 Van Nuys Blvd., Suite 505 Sherman Oaks 818–986–5500 namaziemd.com

“We strive to provide high-quality, cuttingedge medical care to patients with the utmost sympathy and compassion in a comfortable and inviting environment.”

r. Ali Namazie, a specialist in the treatment of ear, nose and throat issues and facial plastics, is board-certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He is a graduate of and current faculty member at UCLA—one of America’s top-five head and neck surgery programs. He has nearly two decades of surgical experience. At UCLA, Dr. Namazie completed a comprehensive program with an emphasis on head and neck, facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. He also completed a fellowship in microvascular/facial plastics and reconstructive surgery. He was awarded membership in Phi Beta Kappa and Alpha Omega Alpha as a topperforming graduate. Dr. Namazie has been internationally published in numerous peer-reviewed facial plastic and head and neck surgery journals. He has written about the most up-to-date techniques for forehead and facial rejuvenation. Dr. Namazie performs extensive facial plastic and reconstructive surgical procedures as well as otolaryngology and head and neck surgery. The doctor’s professional interests include esthetic surgery, sinus disease, cancer of the head and neck, and surgery for snoring, obstructive sleep apnea and disorders of the voice. He focuses on facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, including rhinoplasty, nasal reconstruction, eyelid surgery rejuvenation and minimally invasive facelift and endoscopic brow lift, using image-guided and minimally invasive surgical techniques that lead to minimal scarring, reduced postsurgical discomfort and faster recovery. What is the philosophy of your practice? “We strive to provide high-quality, cuttingedge medical care to patients with the utmost sympathy and compassion in a comfortable and inviting environment.” What is your specific area of expertise? “I am double-boarded in ear, nose and throat surgery in addition to facial plastics and reconstructive surgery. My main focus in the ear, nose and throat arena is mostly nasal and sinus problems. My facial cosmetic procedures focus mainly on facial rejuvenation including facelifts and nose jobs and reconstructive surgery such as correction of ear lobes dissymmetry or malformations.” Tell us about your team. “I have a compassionate team of health care workers with years of experience, who always go out of their way to provide superior care to every patient seen in the office in a thorough and

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expeditious manner.” Tell us about your relationships with your patients. How do you address their concerns? “I have excellent rapport with my patients. This stems from my continued drive to be as empathetic as possible and understanding of their medical concerns and problems. I always try to listen to all complaints and work very hard to address all the concerns and questions during the visit and after care.” Describe a complex challenge you helped a patient solve. “I had the privilege of caring for a patient who had suffered severe facial injuries during a dog attack. She was missing approximately half of her upper and lower lips. Over the course of several months and multiple operations, I was able to fully reconstruct her mouth to the point that she was able to appear in public without any significant fear. I was able to not only improve her quality of life functionally but also emotionally and psychologically. It was incredible for me to observe her confidence in continuing her life without trepidation or fear of ridicule.” What does the future hold for your practice? “Although there are multiple challenges given the current insurance environment, I continue to improve high-quality care for my patients and have committed myself and my staff to ongoing medical training and continued medical education in the management of complex issues in my field.” How do you maintain your own health? “I maintain my physical health with daily exercise including cardiovascular and strength training. I maintain mental health with meditation and relaxation techniques.” What do you do when you’re not working? “I enjoy hiking, biking, skiing and reading books.” Tell us about your family. “My wonderful wife of 25 years is a physician practicing at UCLA in internal medicine. I have two amazing daughters, both of whom are in college—unfortunately away from home but close enough for all of us to enjoy holidays and special occasions together.” How do you give back to your community? “I have volunteered numerous hours in caring for the underprivileged in the San Fernando Valley. Furthermore, I have traveled to Central and South America with nonprofit foundations for surgical and medical care of indigent populations.”

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top doctors

Husam Elias, MD, DMD, FACS Southern California Center for Surgical Arts 4910 Van Nuys Blvd., Suite 102 Sherman Oaks 818-789-6622 socalsurgicalarts.com sccsarts.com

“My goal is to deliver the most natural cosmetic results with a gentle and artistic touch.”

n practice for 10 years, Dr. Husam Elias is a surgeon who is dually trained in both oral and maxillofacial surgery and general cosmetic surgery. He practices at the Southern California Center for Surgical Arts, which has been in existence in the same location for over 35 years. Born and raised in Sudan, East Africa, Dr. Elias completed his undergraduate degree and graduated at the top of his class at University of Khartoum. He then moved to the U.S. to follow his dream of becoming a surgeon. He earned his medical degree from Case Western Reserve University and dental degree from Boston University’s Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, graduating with honors. Dr. Elias completed an internship in general surgery, a residency in maxillofacial surgery and a fellowship in general cosmetic surgery. Before joining Southern California Center for Surgical Arts, Dr. Elias held the position of section head of maxillofacial surgery at the Cleveland Clinic Head and Neck Institute and served as medical staff member for the NBA Cleveland Cavaliers. He also held a position as staff surgeon at the Head and Neck/Maxillofacial Surgery Department at Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center. Dr. Elias is a diplomate of the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, the American Board of Facial Cosmetic Surgery and the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. He has lectured nationally and internationally in cosmetic surgery and oral and maxillofacial surgery. He currently holds academic positions as clinical assistant professor of surgery at Case Western Reserve University and University of Khartoum in Sudan, East Africa, and is a clinical instructor for UCLA and Harbor UCLA oral and maxillofacial surgery residency programs. Dr. Elias has been published in a variety of medical journals. What would you like potential patients to know about you? “With a background in both reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, I have developed a unique practice that encompasses a wide range of cosmetic, oral and maxillofacial surgeries. My goal is to deliver the most natural cosmetic results with a gentle and artistic touch.”

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How does your practice provide personalized attention to patients? “My patients are my family members. I always make time to sit and listen to them. I try to put myself in their shoes to understand their concerns and address any of their questions.” What is the philosophy of your practice? “We live by our motto: ‘Availability, affability and ability.’ We make it all about our patients.” Do you take a holistic approach to your practice? “I recommend a balanced diet, exercise regimen and nutritional supplements. We also emphasize the connection between speedy recovery and emotional and spiritual well-being.” Tell us about recent developments in the medical field. “Virtual surgery and 3-D printing have been a tremendous addition to contemporary surgical practice. They have led to a more accurate prediction of surgical outcomes and reduction in the length of surgery. We use these technologies on a daily basis in treatment planning of most cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries from dental implant, facial reconstruction, corrective jaw surgery to rhinoplasty and breast augmentation.” What is your specific area of expertise? “Cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. We are known nationally and internationally for natural breast augmentation, rhinoplasty, complex facial reconstructions and dental implantology.” Is there a common concern that you hear frequently? “In our busy lifestyle, speedy recovery is the most common concern for our patients. We utilize strict protocols before and after surgery to ensure positive outcomes and fast recovery.” Tell us about your family. “I am married to Dr. Zainab Mahmoud, worldclass physician, super-mom and the love of my life. We have one son, Nadir, my pride and joy. He is about to finish his fourth grade and is ready for an exciting and fun summer.”

What inspired you to be a doctor? “I chose to pursue a career in cosmetic and maxillofacial surgery because of the opportunity to combine art, science and technical skill to improve the life of my patients.”

What do you do when not working? “I am an avid sports enthusiast and love to watch professional sports. I play golf whenever I have a chance and love to travel to see new places and experience new cultures.”

Tell us about your team. “We have a team of nurses, surgical techs and patient concierges who take care of our patients’ needs from A to Z.”

How do you give back to your community? “I volunteer my time to train the next generation of surgeons, working with the maxillofacial surgery residents at Harbor UCLA Medical Center.”

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top doctors

Ali Sadrieh, DPM Evo Advanced Foot Surgery 12265 Ventura Blvd., Suite 107 Studio City 310-691-5411 evofoot.com

“We come to work every day to do better than we did the day before and challenge ourselves to stay on top of the relentless pursuit of excellence.”

n practice for the past 16 years, Dr. Ali Sadrieh designed evo advanced foot surgery so patients can experience advanced medicine, cutting-edge technology and a luxurious experience. His office caters to the active professional looking to correct foot problems with a quality experience and a more simple recovery process. In 2003 Dr. Sadrieh developed the subspecialty of aesthetic foot surgery and invented three new procedures that simplify the recovery process and improve the patient experience. Prior to opening his practice, he earned his undergraduate degree at UCLA and pursued podiatric medical training at University of Osteopathic Medicine and Health Sciences. He completed a podiatric surgical residency at Northridge Hospital Medical Center.

I’ve held to the formula of Q=1/v. Quality is inversely proportional to volume. The more volume, the less quality. The numbers vary from ‘product’ to product, but the relationship holds true across industries. This is why our practice is designed around the low-volume, highquality model of care. We limit the number of patients and surgeries we perform to make sure our work is the best it can be.”

What do you consider your specialty? “At the core, it’s all about the feet! As foot surgeons we treat everything below the ankle. But back in 2003 I realized a need for a new kind of foot surgical approach. I called it aesthetic foot surgery. The concept is designed around fixing structural problems before they cause issue and symptoms, but perform the procedures with aesthetic technique. Thirteen years later, there are numerous practices that have been inspired by our work and offer their patients the modern way to experience foot surgery.”

What does the future hold for your practice? “We’re excited about the upcoming year. We’re currently building the next version of our concept called evofoot 3. This project will provide patients with technologies and a user experience design that has never been seen before. Our goal has always been to improve the patient experience by making cutting-edge technology available to all of our patients.”

How important is a physician’s “bedside manner”? “I’ve always held the belief that doing what we do well is a minimum deliverable. Attending medical school and residency, there’s a minimum expectation of excellent medical knowledge and work. Everything above this is what achieves the ‘A’ grade… and that’s where bedside manner comes in!” Grappling with insurance can be a challenge. How does your practice handle it? “We’ve always been a patient-centered practice, and consistent with that philosophy is our relationship with insurance. Our practice is out-of-network with insurance so we can work for the patient without dealing with the bureaucratic hurdles that insurance companies place in the way of an excellent patient/doctor relationship. Despite our out-of-network status, we accept all insurance plans so our patients still have access to the evo philosophy.” Doctors often seem in a hurry. Thoughts? “Since the beginning of my time in practice,

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What would you like our readers to know about you and your team? “Our team is what make us special, because every one of them subscribes to the ethos of ‘Do what you love … love what you do.’ We come to work every day to do better than we did the day before and challenge ourselves to stay on top of the relentless pursuit of excellence.”

How do you use technology to enhance the patient experience? “We’ve always believed that the barriers of the patient/doctor relationship should be eliminated. That’s why since the inception of technologies like the iPad or Electronic Health Records, we’ve been early adopters and have had the privilege of collaborating with developers in Silicon Valley to build the next generation system. We leverage drchrono EHR, Spruce for secure patient communications, Echosign for paperless HIPAA-compliant document signatures and we are an all-iOS based practice so you begin and end your experience with us on an iPad!” What’s all the media and news coverage about? “Doing great work for our patients is a privilege, and to do this we had to create a new model of practice and new procedures as well. Back in 2003 these procedures began to pick up the attention of the TV shows like The Doctors and newspapers like The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times. We had the privilege of participating in these opportunities to help spread the vision of what an excellent surgical practice could look like, as well as the latest in surgical procedures for the foot.”

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top doctors

Gene Rubinstein, MD, FAAD Owner/ Medical Director Dermatology and Laser Centre 3959 Laurel Canyon Boulevard, Suite F, Studio City 818-505-9300 135 Macaw Lane, Suite 200 Simi Valley 805-522-3300 LAskinMD.com

“We treat every patient as we would our own family and friends.”

ermatology and Laser Centre is a full-service medical and cosmetic dermatology practice with locations in Studio City and Simi Valley. Medical director Dr. Gene Rubinstein is a board-certified dermatologist with more than 15 years of experience in medical and aesthetic dermatology. He earned his medical doctorate degree from Boston University and completed a research fellowship in lasers in medicine at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Rubinstein volunteers his time as a clinical instructor at the UCLA VA hospital in West L.A., serving veterans and teaching medical students. In his free time he enjoys playing music. How does your practice differ from others? “We have a large practice, but every patient is important to us. We strive to be the go-to dermatology practice for all our patients, their friends and their families. We pride ourselves on getting many referrals from existing patients and appreciate their trust in us. All of our providers and staff are extremely well trained and qualified.” What is your specific area of expertise? “I treat a wide spectrum of patients. On the medical side, I specialize in the treatment of dermatologic conditions such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. I lecture about the treatments of skin problems to dermatologists and other physicians. I also see many patients for skin exams for the detection of atypical moles and skin cancers. If I find a skin cancer, I perform surgery, including Mohs surgery, to treat the cancer. On the cosmetic side I have expertise in lasers and use many in my practice. I have also lectured about lasers for pigmentation, resurfacing and tattoo removal at conferences to physicians and physician assistants. I have performed many neuromodulator and filler procedures from the earliest time they were available.” What inspired you to be a doctor? “I became interested in medicine in high school. As a senior at Agoura High, I was part of a unique anatomy and physiology program that involved cadaver dissection; it was then that I decided to pursue medicine as a career. I studied biology at UCLA, which prepared me well for medical school. It was at the Boston University School of Medicine that I became fascinated with the field of dermatology. It was amazing to me that simply by looking at the skin, so many questions about the health of an individual could be answered.”

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How does your practice provide personalized attention to patients? “I consider every patient to be an individual. In our practice we treat every patient as we would our own family and friends. We try to see patients promptly, provide friendly and professional service, and offer patients direct access to myself and our other providers during working hours, as well as having a 24-hour emergency line for off hours.” What is the philosophy of your practice? “To provide the best individualized service to patients using cutting-edge, effective technology in a friendly and professional environment.” How do patients describe your approach? “My approach is intensely personal. I want to know who my patients are, their interests, what they do, because it allows me to treat them better and leads to better outcomes. Good communication is also important. I make it a point for any patient concern to be answered promptly.” What state-of-the-art procedures do you offer at your practice? “As a society we are constantly bombarded with information about the newest medical treatments, and in my practice I am often asked about many of these. As a physician I feel it is on the one hand important for me to stay abreast of all new significant developments in medicine, but that it is my duty to make sure these treatments are safe and effective. Therefore I evaluate all treatments, devices and products I offer in my practice. Some of the newest and most exciting treatments we offer are the PicoSure laser for tattoo removal and pigmentation, SculpSure (a noninvasive laser for fat reduction) and PRP treatments for facial rejuvenation and hair growth. I also have my own line of products that includes an extremely effective sunscreen that protects from infrared as well as ultraviolet radiation, and potent treatments for acne, rosacea and aging.” What are your top tips for basic health? “From a dermatology perspective, sun protection is paramount. Sun avoidance, protective clothing and daily sunscreen use are key. Depending on the patient’s condition, I also believe good nutrition and supplementation with vitamins and essential minerals lead to better outcomes. I constantly keep up with literature and attend meetings in order to stay abreast of the latest research.”

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top doctors

Jeffrey B. Glaser, MD

Owner Glaser Pain Relief Center 16311 Ventura Blvd., Suite 518, Encino 818-501-PAIN (7246) | glaserpainrelief.com

r. Jeffrey Glaser, a UCLA-trained, dual boardcertified interventional pain management physician, specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of spine-mediated pain. He has been in practice for 18 years and has been the medical director of Glaser Pain Relief Center in Encino since 2001. Dr. Glaser earned his medical degree from Jefferson Medical College (Sidney Kimmel Medical College) of Thomas Jefferson University. He went on to complete his residency and specialty training at UCLA. How does your practice differ from others? “My practice considers it a privilege to take care of patients. Each patient is treated as I would like my own family treated. Medical records and history are reviewed in detail prior to our patients’ first visit so that we are prepared to best treat them. We are focused first on diagnosis and then provide minimally invasive treatment options as part of a comprehensive plan to improve our patients’ lives. We discuss goals and desires of the patient so we can work collaboratively to achieve those.” What are your practice’s goals? “To improve the quality of patients’ lives by reducing pain and improving functionality caused by crippling back pain, neck pain and sciatica. Oftentimes patients can achieve a significant reduction in pain with minimally invasive procedures requiring little to no downtime.” Tell us about recent developments in the medical field. “Treatment of spine-mediated neck pain, back pain and sciatica such as failed back surgery, spinal stenosis, lumbar degenerative disc disease and herniated discs has advanced tremendously in recent years. It is rare that patients require surgery to treat their pain. Many patients can be treated with minimally invasive options. The opioid epidemic has plagued the United States in recent years. Opioids typically play no role in the treatment of chronic non-cancer pain. Medical advancements have allowed many patients to enjoy the benefits of minimally invasive, nonsurgical treatment options.”

“Oftentimes patients can achieve a significant reduction in pain with minimally invasive procedures requiring little to no downtime.” 82

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What state-of-the-art procedures do you offer? “Minimally invasive treatment options include epidural steroid injections, selective nerve root block, nerve ablations/ rhizotomies, spinal cord stimulation (pacemaker for pain), peripheral nerve blocks, sympathetic nerve blocks, SI joint injections, major joint injections (i.e. knees/shoulders/hips), viscosupplemental (lubricant) therapy for joints, platelet rich plasma (PRP) injections, stem cell therapy and Botox for migraines.”

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Andrew T. Cohen, MD, FACS

Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon 9400 Brighton Way, Suite 201 Beverly Hills | 310-659-8771 drandrewcohen.com

r. Andrew Cohen is a Southern California native who graduated from medical school at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland and completed a general and plastic surgery residency at Loma Linda University. After performing an aesthetic fellowship in Atlanta, he started his private practice in Beverly Hills in 2001. He and his wife of 21 years have three sons. What inspired you to be a doctor? “I was inspired to be a surgeon by my father, who was a very successful general surgeon in Huntington Beach, California. I have three older brothers who are also surgeons. My father set the gold standard for us. I was fortunate to be able to assist him in surgery during high school and college and saw what an exciting profession surgery can be.” What is your specific area of expertise? “Aesthetic surgery of the body and the face. I do a lot of mommy makeover surgeries and breast reduction surgeries, which can be life-changing for women who are living with pain.” How does your practice differ from others? “The most important thing is for patients to get to know me and my staff, so they feel safe and free to ask questions. My patients have access to me preand post-operatively, and they stay in my practice for many years after. We realize that surgery is a very big decision. We are there for our patients, and I think our patient reviews online prove that. I have the pleasure of operating on patients of all ages. I try to give a personal approach and unique surgical solution to every patient.”

“My patients have access to me preand post-operatively, and they stay in my practice for many years after.” SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Do you take a holistic approach to your practice? “I have always believed in a combination of Western and Eastern medicine. Food and exercise are part of the ‘medicine’ that keeps us healthy and, in conjunction with surgical techniques, the perfect recipe for great health.” Tell us about your team. “Shelley Hirschman, my wonderful practice manager and surgical consultant, has been with me for 16 years. My surgical team is top-of-the-line, and they make patients feel safe and comfortable. I have a private surgical center in the heart of Beverly Hills that has a board-certified anesthesiologist and a team of nurses who help keep the operating room running safely.”

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top doctors

“Because of my medical as well as dental background, we frequently see patients with complex problems that others cannot manage.”

Jay B. Reznick, DMD, MD

outhern California Center for Oral and Facial Surgery (SCCOFS) is an oral/facial surgery practice that specializes in all aspects of dental implantology, management of diseased and impacted teeth, oral disease and injury. Clinical director Dr. Jay Reznick is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. He received his dental degree from Tufts University and his medical degree from the University of Southern California. Dr. Reznick has been in practice for 23 years. What is your specific area of expertise? “Because of my medical as well as dental background, we frequently see patients with complex problems that others cannot manage. But our greatest area of expertise is the replacement of missing teeth with dental implants. We are able to replace missing

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Southern California Center for Oral and Facial Surgery 18372 Clark St., Suite 224, Tarzana 818-996-1200 | sccofs.com bone as well as teeth. So patients who were told elsewhere that they were not candidates for dental implants can usually be treated in our practice. We also treat impacted teeth, obstructive sleep apnea and offer many of the more popular facial cosmetic procedures, such as fillers and Botox.” How does your practice provide personalized attention to patients? “We begin with our amazing team, many of whom have been with the practice for 10 years or more. We understand that referral to a surgery office can be intimidating and cause a lot of anxiety. Our experienced staff makes the experience as smooth and easy as possible. We stress education and letting our patients be knowledgeable participants in the treatment process. And we are always available for questions and concerns.”

Is there a common concern that you hear frequently? “Many patients come to us with stories from friends about pain and complications with dental implants and other surgeries. Although no procedure is without complications, dental implant surgery usually has a very easy recovery and little or no discomfort. The state-of-the-art technologies we use help facilitate success.” How does your practice differ from others? “Our practice is unique in that we are a leader in the use of the most advanced technologies that give us the best, most accurate information for diagnosis, to facilitate precise treatment planning and then to achieve the best results for our patients. Our patients are partners in the treatment process.”

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“Stay active in as many different sports and recreational activities as you can.”

Carlos A. Guanche, MD

Southern California Orthopedic Institute

r. Carlos Guanche is a double board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine. After earning his medical degree from the University of Miami and receiving extensive additional training, he worked as a faculty member at the Louisiana State University Medical Center and then as the team physician for the Minnesota Vikings and the Minnesota Timberwolves before joining Southern California Orthopedic Institute 15 years ago.

What state-of-the-art procedures do you offer? “The anterior approach hip replacements I perform are the least invasive replacements that we are doing. In many cases the patients go home within hours of surgery. When I first began practice 25 years ago, these exact types of patients would often be in the hospital for more than 10 days.”

What is the philosophy of your practice? “Everyone is treated like an athlete. I treat all patients as if they want to be very active and not give up any recreational activities that give them joy.” Tell us about your team. “We are a center where other surgeons come to learn and have five fully-trained orthopedic surgeons who spend a year

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in our facility learning our specific surgical techniques. As a result of our reputation, we often have visiting international surgeons observing and learning our surgical techniques. In the last year, we have had visitors from Japan, China, Sweden, Slovenia, Columbia, Brazil and the Dominican Republic.” What is your specific area of expertise? “I am a world expert on arthroscopic treatment of hip injuries and have written two textbooks and give talks around the world on the subject, including the treatment of labral tears and impingement surgery. I take care of a lot of professional, collegiate and high school athletes. I am one of only a few orthopedic surgeons managing hamstring injuries through the arthroscope, and I have extensive experience with the arthroscopic management of shoulder injuries. I also perform many shoulder and hip replacements.”

6815 Noble Ave. Van Nuys 818-901-6600 carlosguanchemd.com

What are your top tips for maintaining basic health? “Stay active in as many different sports and recreational activities as you can. If you are older, you should avoid repetitive activities that involve significant higher impact since these activities tend to cause more overuse injuries.” How do you maintain your own health? “I eat well and maintain a regular regimen of aerobic activities, including yoga, working out with light weights and occasional running.”

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top doctors

Karin Adoni Ben-David

Founder & CEO 19562 Ventura Blvd., Suite 218, Tarzana 818-292-3533 | karinadoni.com

arin Adoni is the founder of online weight loss programs specializing in healthy lifestyle and behavioral changes. Before creating her brand, Karin worked as the COO of Eat Good for three years. She then became the head nutritionist of Reebok Sports Club in NYC. Working in the nutrition field for more than a decade, Karin has a large celebrity clientele and recently released her own cookbook. What inspired you to be a nutritionist? “As a teenager I suffered from multiple eating disorders including anorexia. I fell into a vicious cycle of self-hatred. After a decade of misery, a moment of clarity pushed me to change my life. My transformation made me realize I am here to make a difference and push people toward their best self. I wanted to help people’s lives, to motivate them to achieve their goals and learn to enjoy the process. I am not what happened to me. I am what I choose to become.” What is the philosophy of your practice? “Food is one of the greatest pleasures in life, and healthy eating doesn’t have to change that. To eliminate bad habits, we must introduce positive lifestyle changes and commit to them. I place a big emphasis on accountability throughout my program. My team and I are always here to help, making sure our clients know they are not alone.” What are your specific areas of expertise? “I teach how to reduce the intake of refined sugars and processed foods, replacing them with whole foods that regulate weight and nourish the body. My 21-day detox gives a quick introduction, and my incredible 90-day transformation program provides more in-depth education.” How does your practice differ from others? “My programs are not diets; they are a way of living. We provide the tools, education, support and community to make becoming your best self possible.”

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Do you take a holistic approach to your practice? “Yes. You need to learn to love who you are as a whole—mind, body and soul. I want all of my clients to feel their best, which goes beyond their physical state. The support and motivation my team and I give my clients directly influences their long-lasting results.”

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top doctors

Stephanie Wolff, PA-C, CEO

Novus Anti-Aging Center 11650 Riverside Dr., Suite 11, Studio City 310-954-1450 | thenovuscenter.com

ovus Anti-Aging Center is an integrated medical practice that provides a variety of health and wellness services by combining a modernized approach to Western medicine with complementary therapies, while maintaining an emphasis on the body’s natural healing abilities. The center examines, diagnoses and treats various conditions that arise from an imbalance of the body’s natural systems. Owner Stephanie Wolff, PA-C, has worked in the health care field for 17 years and is a certified physician assistant. What is your specific area of expertise? “Functional medicine and sexual wellness, which can go hand-in-hand. Sex has become a center-piece of modern culture, but it’s often not discussed in your doctor’s office—an omission that can keep you from achieving and maintaining an optimal sex life for your whole life. Sexual dysfunction is not a small problem: 50% of women and men experience some degree of low libido and sexual dysfunction. Welcome to the orgasm clinic! If your sex life is anything short of amazing, come see us for a free consultation. We offer innovative and noninvasive procedures that are proven to be effective up to 90% without the use of medications or risky surgeries.” What are your tips for maintaining basic health? “Intermittent fasting, at least 12 hours in between dinner and breakfast. Wake up 30 minutes earlier to get a workout in, even if it’s just for a walk around the block or a home routine. Limit caffeine intake to once daily if any at all. Limit alcohol intake to once a week. Limit red meat and dairy and increase the amount of fish consumed (wildcaught) to three to four times per week. Consume more fruits and veggies throughout the day. Make sure you get a solid seven to eight hours of sleep a night.”

“Welcome to the orgasm clinic! If your sex life is anything short of amazing, come see us for a free consultation.” SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

How do patients describe your approach? “Every one of them consistently says ‘extremely thorough.’ I understand that every individual is unique and therefore requires a customized plan based on their needs and goals. I run through a series of detailed questions as well as their medical history, then order a series of lab tests. A follow-up appointment with complete interpretation of these tests and plan will be presented.”

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top doctors

Dr. Michael Abdulian Orthopaedic Surgery

Spine and Orthopaedic Institute at Glendale Adventist Hospital 1500 East Chevy Chase Dr., Suite 401B, Glendale 818-863-4446 | michaelabdulianmd.com

r. Michael Abdulian treats patients for a variety of conditions involving the shoulder, hip and knee, utilizing both surgical and nonsurgical techniques. His practice, Spine and Orthopaedic Institute at Glendale Adventist Hospital, consists of a multidisciplinary team of specialists all in one clinic. How important is a physician’s “bedside manner”? “Bedside manner is one of the key components to providing a positive experience for a patient. Patients come to you because they have pain and they are looking for help. They are in a vulnerable state. It is important for a physician to understand that and be compassionate when addressing patients’ concerns and treating their condition. The manner in which care is delivered can have a great impact on a patient’s overall recovery.” How do you use technology to enhance the patient experience? “Technology is an integral component to delivering quality care in my practice. Conveniently, in our clinic we have an in-house digital X-ray, ultrasound capabilities and a bone density Dexa Scanner. I perform roboticassisted partial knee replacements—a technology that can improve a surgeon’s precision, leading to faster recovery and improved outcomes. Using the latest advances in regenerative medicine, I provide treatment options such as Platelet Rich Plasma injections and stem cell therapy for conditions that traditionally were treated with surgery.”

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What is your best tip for preventing illness? “As an orthopaedic surgeon, a big part of my practice is focused on injury prevention. It is important to properly warm up before working out or playing sports and recover after. Most new exercise routines focus on highintensity workouts done in short spurts that can fatigue a person. Listen to your body. If you are feeling fatigued, it is important to rest to prevent injury.” Tell us about your team. “We are here to serve you as our patients. Each patient is a priority from the second they walk into the office. Your concerns become our concerns, and your wellbeing becomes our goal. We strive to make each patient’s experience positive to the best of our abilities. Our clinic staff members are friendly, accommodating and understand that your time with us is valuable.”

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top doctors

“We love our patients and treat them as friends and family.”

Anna D. Guanche, MD, FAAD

ella Skin Institute is a full-service dermatology and aesthetic surgery practice directed by Dr. Anna Guanche—a boardcertified dermatologist with more than 14 years of experience. The Bella Skin team cares for all types of skin conditions but places special emphasis on the areas of cosmetic dermatology and laser surgery. What do your patients like best about you? “We love our patients and treat them as friends and family. Patients love us because we are consumers of our own offerings, and so we clearly believe in what we are doing.” What is your area of specialty? “We offer a full range of cosmetic procedures/devices to enhance the appearance of the skin and reverse signs of aging. We best serve our patients by giving them optimal, specific treatment, rather than trying to recommend the same treatment for everyone.”

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What concern do you frequently hear from patients? “That they look natural after their aesthetic treatment. Our practice provides treatments that are well-planned and administered in the safest, most conservative way to ensure a natural look and minimal down time. At the intersection of proper evaluation and counseling, pretreatment care and an artistic eye is where optimal results are achieved.” Tell us about your staff. “Our staff has been nicknamed the ‘derm dream team’ for good reason. Our estheticians have more than 30 years experience collectively. The medical assistants are caring and experienced and understand patient needs extremely well. Our physician assistant, Ananda Fidani PA-C, trained at USC in the master’s program, and our patients love her!”

Owner/Founder Bella Skin Institute 23622 Calabasas Road, Suite 339 Calabasas 818-225-0117 | bellaskininstitute.com How do you give back to the community? “We are sponsors of the Melanoma Research Foundation’s Miles for Melanoma 5K. Every year our team, Bella’s Melanomanators, walks while spreading awareness and raising money for the cure. Bella Skin Institute is a leader in contribution to the Dermatology Foundation, which funds research for finding cures for other skin conditions.” What does the future hold for Bella Skin Institute? “Aquagold® is our newest technique for delivering microBotox and microfiller to the surface of the skin—a procedure that models and red carpet attendees and EVERYONE loves! We are testing out new devices for neck tightening this year so that we can acquire the most effective technology. Dr. Guanche has written a beauty book that will be published this year. Better every day. Every day better!”

MAY/JUNE 2018 | VENTURA BLVD

C R E AT I N G V I D E O F O R YO U R L I S T I N G S I S O N LY E X P E N S I V E I F N O O N E I S WAT C H I N G . H o m e F i l m s i s t h e o n l y f u l l y i n t e g r a t e d , r e a l e s t a t e v i d e o p ro d u c t i o n a n d d i g i t a l distribution package. Our talented filmmaking artistically tells the story of what m a k e s yo u r l i s t i n g u n i q u e . A n d o u r t a r g e t e d d i g i t a l d i s t r i b u t i o n e n s u r e s t h a t t h e r i g h t p o t e n t i a l b u y e r s a r e s e e i n g yo u r p ro p e r t y i n t h e m o s t b e a u t i f u l l i g h t .

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real estate

ARCHITECTURAL CONTEMPORARY VIEW HOME

19245 Casa Place,Tarzana 19245CasaPlace.com $2,250,000 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Harriet Cameron & Andrew Spitz 818-380-2151/818-817-4284 AndrewSpitz.com

EXCLUSIVE LUXURY LISTINGS

27580 WINDING WAY | MALIBU | PRICE UPON REQUEST

4107 VENTURA CANYON AVENUE | SHERMAN OAKS | $4,975,000

4270 PRADO DE LOS CIERVOS | CALABASAS | $4,599,000

4315 ARCOLA AVENUE | TOLUCA LAKE | $3,988,800

2 PARCELS | 10.8 ACRES DENISE SNANOUDJ 323.646.8866 | LIC. # 01101684 CRAIG KNIZEK 818.618.1006 | LIC. # 01377932

5 BEDS | 6 BATHS | 7,357 SQ. FT. | 16,180 SQ. FT. LOT ANDREA KORCHEK 818.371.0933 | LIC. # 01311917

5 BEDS | 6 BATHS | 6,529 SQ. FT. | 44,866 SQ. FT. LOT EMIL HARTOONIAN 310.990.0063 | LIC. # 01796925

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17414 MAGNOLIA BLVD. | ENCINO | $3,395,000

An international associate of Savills

THE AGENCYRE.COM

23341 OSTRONIC DRIVE | WOODLAND HILLS | $3,295,000

25470 PRADO DE LAS BELLOTAS | CALABASAS | $2,949,000

4910 BREWSTER DRIVE | TARZANA | $2,299,000

3532 CAMINO DE LA CUMBRE | SHERMAN OAKS | $1,699,000

6 BEDS | 5 BATHS | 7,400 SQ. FT. | 50,607 SQ. FT. LOT JOHN TASHTCHIAN 818.968.2822 | LIC. # 01453364

5 BEDS | 6 BATHS | 4,708 SQ. FT. | 21,429 SQ. FT. LOT EMIL HARTOONIAN 310.990.0063 | LIC. # 01796925

19144 ROMAR STREET | NORTHRIDGE | $1,685,000

14535 KILLION STREET | SHERMAN OAKS | $1,399,000

A S E L E C T I O N O F F I N E L U X U RY E S TAT E S L I S T ED BY B RIAN PAN E

ACTIVE

16033 VALLEY VISTA BOULEVARD • ENCINO • $8,995,000

17984 BORIS DRIVE • ENCINO • $ 5,650,000

ACTIVE

16461 DORADO DRIVE • ENCINO • $3,650,000

19808 SLEEPY HOLLOW LANE • TARZANA • $3,485,000

ACTIVE

19321 WELLS DRIVE • TARZANA • $3,395,000

3750 MARFIELD AVENUE • TARZANA • $3,099,000

Contact Brian Pane Today 818.521.9790 • Brian@BrianPane.com Brian Pane is a Realtor Associate, CalBRE#01209478. Wish Sotheby’s International Realty (Broker CalBRE# 01916623) does not guarantee accuracy of square footage, lot size, condition, features, or income provided by sellers, third parties, or public records. Buyers are advised to verify accuracy of all information through independent inspection by professionals. Buyers and sellers are advised to seek legal and tax advice when purchasing or selling real property. Broker does not guarantee specific school availability. Each office is independently owned and operated.

Oren David Mordkowitz ESTATES DIRECTOR | REALTOR Â® CalBRE License #01246402 818-933-5866 oren@orenestates.com

5041PalomarDrive.com

5325OakdaleAvenue.com

5041 Palomar Drive | Tarzana

5325 Oakdale Avenue | Woodland Hills

$3,499,000

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OFF-MARKET OPPORTUNITY

3652HayvenhurstAvenue.com

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$1,775,000

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3652 Hayvenhurst Avenue | Encino 16725 Oak View Drive | Encino

IN ESCROW

16593AdlonRoad.com

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IN ESCROW

15840ValleyVistaBlvd.com

15840 Valley Vista Blvd. | Encino $1,449,000

SOLD

4143 Hayvenhurst Drive | Encino 4957 Edgerton Avenue | Encino $3,995,000

$2,995,000

O re n E s t a t e s . c o m

5019GaviotaAvenue.com

3834AlonzoAvenue.com

5019 Gaviota Avenue | Encino

3834 Alonzo Avenue | Encino

$2,849,000

$3,599,000

SOLD

OVER ASKING

4929 Hayvenhurst Avenue | Encino 17361 Hamlin Street | Lake Balboa $1,405,000

$600,000

SOLD

5406 Rhea Avenue | Tarzana $1,189,000

SOLD

REPRESENTED BUYER

1271 Stoner Ave. #409 | Los Angeles 4007 Bon Homme Road | Calabasas $1,189,000

SOLD

$1,085,000

16613 Oldham Place | Encino $2,138,000

O re n E s t a t e s . c o m

RECENT TRUST & PROBATE SALES

Sold 3946 Davana Road Sherman Oaks

Sold 4828 Noble Sherman Oaks

Sold 5435 Wortser Sherman Oaks

Sold 4383-4383 Â½ Allott Sherman Oaks

Sold 13150 Weddington Sherman Oaks

Sold 1600 San Ysidro Beverly Hills

Sold 3175 Oakshire Drive Los Angeles

Sold 19250 Hamlin Street #4 Reseda

Sold 7143 Darnoch Way West Hills

ALAN TAYLOR Estates Director | Trust and Probate Top 1% Nationwide

818.650.1603

Info@AlanTaylorRealEstate.com | AlanTaylorRealEstate.com TRUST & PROBATE SALES REQUIRING COURT CONFIRMATION NEED SPECIAL EXPERTISE. CONTACT ME FOR A COMPLIMENTARY ASSESSMENT. Pacific Union International does not guarantee the accuracy of the informatin provided and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information. CalBRE 01369255

17425 Cumpston Street E N C IN O $3,295,000 5 Beds 5 Baths 5,647 Sq. Ft. 17,543 Sq. Ft. Lot

4715 Alonzo Avenue ENCINO $3,995,000 5 Beds 7 Baths 6,250 Sq. Ft. 19,039 Sq. Ft. Lot

17414 Magnolia Blvd. E N C IN O $3,395,000 6 Beds 8 Baths 6,800 Sq. Ft. 26,180 Sq. Ft. Lot

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s real estate that moves you. J I M M Y A . H IRS C H JHirsch@TheAgencyRE.com 310.413.7414 LIC. # 01970186

An international associate of Savills

T HE AGEN CY R E .C O M

FRYMAN ESTATES

12127 Iredell Street $5,199,000 Historic legacy estate in prime Fryman Estates. Country English tennis compound with views, pool & motor court.

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12127iredell.com Craig Strong 310 439 3225

VALLEY VILLAGE

11623 Morrison St Bryan Abrams

ENCINO

$2,399,000 818 266 4300

BURBANK

TOLUCA LAKE

$2,275,000 310 439 3225

4703 Balboa Ave Craig Strong & Tara Rose

SHERMAN OAKS

4256 Strohm Avenue $3,199,000

Spanish Modern estate in Toluca Lake. Completely remodeled. Tropical resort-style living. 4256strohm.com Craig Strong 310 439 3225 444 S. California St Craig Strong

$1,995,000 310 439 3225

VALLEY VILLAGE

5807 Wilkinson Ave Galicia Avalos & Beatrice Stambulski

$1,749,000 818 398 0797

13141 Morrison St Kevin Driscoll

SHERMAN OAKS

$1,499,000 818 818 0006

14655 Tustin St Kristin Neithercut

SHERMAN OAKS

$1,395,000 323 397 0800

PACIFIC UNION INTERNATIONAL | THE ULTIMATE CALIFORNIA REAL ESTATE COMPANY

4640 Mary Ellen Ave Alan Taylor

$1,299,000 818 650 1603

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Pacific Union International 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.

MICHAEL BERGIN |

LUXURY ESTATES DIRECTOR

COMING SOON 4149 Farmdale Avenue, Studio City Call for More Information

FOR SALE

JUST SOLD

9501 Clybourn Avenue, Sun Valley

Horse Property | Two Homes | 7 Bedrooms | 5 Bathrooms | 4.7 Acres Offered at $1,989,000

4161 Kraft Avenue, Studio City

COMING SOON

JUST SOLD

Offered at $2,349,000

16226 Dickens Street, Encino

Sunshine Terrace, Studio City

44XX Ethel Avenue, Studio City

4652 Norwich Avenue, Sherman Oaks

58XX Cantaloupe Ave, Valley Glen

4457 Camellia Ave, Studio City

Offered at $1,999,000

Offered at $1,149,000 Offered at $849,000

Offered at $1,749,000

Offered at $1,499,000

3111 Via Dolce #503, Marina Del Rey Offered at $2,025,000 |

Represented Buyer

3608 Avenida Del Sol, Studio City

Offered at $3,250,000

Offered at $1,099,000

“ YO U R # 1 N E I G H B O R H O O D E X P E RT ”

MICHAEL BERGIN | 310.600.0715 | MichaelBergin.com | BerginHomes@gmail.com | CalBRE 01845572 FRIEND

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ENCINO 4646 White Oak Avenue $1,999,000

LIS TI

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SHERMAN OAKS 4611 Vista Del Monte Ave $599,000

SHERMAN OAKS 13141 Morrison Street $1,749,000

KEVIN DRISCOLL

13141morrison.pacunion.la

Top 1% Nationwide Estates Director

818.398.0797

KevinDriscollHomes@gmail.com Pacific Union International 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. This is not intended as a solicitation if your property is currently listed with another broker. CalBRE 01270052

STRONG REALTOR TOP

13838 WEDDINGTON ST | SHERMAN OAKS AVAILABLE | OFFERED AT $2,849,000

NATIONWIDE

SOLD OVER $100 MILLION IN 2017 AVAILABLE | FRYMAN ESTATES

12127 Iredell St

AVAILABLE | STUDIO CITY

$5,199,000

AVAILABLE | SHERMAN OAKS

15436 Valley Vista

5 Bd | 4 Ba | 4,956 ± sf | 30,012 ± sf lot

10403 Valley Spring Ln

$22,000,000 $2,599,000

AVAILABLE | TOLUCA LAKE

$2,345,000

AVAILABLE | BURBANK

4256 Strohm Ave

$3,199,000

PENDING | ENCINO

CRAIG STRONG Executive Director, Estates Division 818.930.4050 CalBRE 01450987 444 S. California

$1,995,000

4703 Balboa Ave

$2,275,000

STRONGREALTOR.COM #1 AGENT SAN FERNANDO VALLEY

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

W H E R E G R E AT B E G I N N I N G S S TA R T

MEET THE PAYAB GROUP! Encino-based agent Stephanie Payab is excited to offer even more of the outstanding service that has exemplified her distinguished career. The combined skills of additional team members will positively enhance your buying or selling experience. The Payab Group is dedicated to meeting and exceeding your goals in a stress-free and efficient way. To learn how they can help you with your real estate needs, contact Stephanie, Lanair, Enrique or Jessica.

STEPHANIE PAYAB

JESSICA JABLON

818.269.2796 SPayab@bhhscal.com

818.383.4422 JJablon@bhhscal.com

President, The Payab Group REALTOR®

Lic# 01394407

Team Manager REALTOR®

Lic# 02008991

LANAIR BAKER REALTOR®

ENRIQUE ROQUE REALTOR®

310.493.6202 415.706.3984 LanairBaker@bhhscal.com EnriqueRoque@bhhscal.com Lic# 02033224

KNOWLEDGEABLE. EXPERIENCED. AUTHENTIC...ALWAYS! 16810 VENTURA BLVD | ENCINO, CA 91436 | ThePayabGroup.com ©2018 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties (BHHSCP) is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC. Lic# 01317331

Lic# 02037081

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MATTEPSTEIN.COM SOMATT@AOL.COM 818-789-7408

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Agent San Fernando Valley Agent Los Angeles Agent Nationwide for

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

Follow me on Facebook: MattEpsteinRealty Top one-half of 1 percent of more than 1,250,000 REALTORS® nationwide

Follow me on Twitter: @SoMattEpstein CalBRE# 01121162

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

3620 Longridge Ave. – SO - $4,999,000- 6Br+9Ba in 7,483 SqFt on a 42,650 SqFt lot- This gorgeous Longridge Estates property is located in an amazing neighborhood in Sherman Oaks, The home features hardwood floors, media room and huge master suite. Lush backyard with mature fruit trees, waterfall pool/spa and BBQ area. 3187 Oakdell Rd.– SC- $3,500,000– 4Br+4Ba in 5,154 SqFt on a 25,570 SqFt Lot- Sophisticated one story mid century modern ranch home is located in the exclusive Fryman Estates area on a corner lot and is situated on an impressive half acre.Step back into old Hollywood glamour in this 4 bedroom 4 bathroom home. It features black polish granite flooring, four fireplaces, a grand theater room and a master suite with lots of closet space. Lush backyard with canyon views, pool, and Jacuzzi.

14736 Greenleaf St. – SO-$2,999,0005Br+5Ba in 5,000 SqFt on a 10,750 SqFt Lot – New Construction South of the Blvd. in a prime Sherman Oaks area. This chic contemporary home features 5 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms, pool house, pool & Jacuzzi.

#KeepingItRealEstate

3679 Benedict Cyn. Ln. – SO-$3,450,000 – 5Br+5.5Ba in 5,156 SqFt on a 27,169 Lot– This estate home has beautiful mountain, valley and city light views from much of the home. It features high ceilings, open floor plan, formal living room, chef gourmet kitchen and large master suite. The backyard features a pool, spa and grassy area.

10633 Chiquita St.–TL- $1,149,000 -3Br+3Ba in 2,000 SqFt on a 7,145 SqFt Lot –Beautiful 1924 Craftsman house on a cul-de-sac street. It features 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, a deck, spacious master suite, and wood flooring throughout. The backyard features a guesthouse with a kitchenette and bathroom.

Call for your FREE market analysis! ©2016 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties (BHHSCP) is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC. BHH Affiliates LLC and BHHSCP do not guarantee accuracy of all data including measurements, conditions, and features of property. Properties may or may not be listed by the office/agent presenting this information. Based on information obtained from the MLS as of (11/1/2016). Display of MLS data is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed accurate by the MLS. CalBRE 1317331

www.3497VistaHaven.com · 5 Bedrooms · 5.5 Baths · 3,400 sq. ft. · 19,892 sq. ft. lot · View

3497 Vista Haven Road, Sherman Oaks | Offered At $2,195,000

IN ESCROW

JUST SOLD

IN ESCROW

3778 Whitespeak Dr., Sherman Oaks $1,899,000

3520 Loadstone Dr., Sherman Oaks $1,299,000

15075 Rayneta Dr., Sherman Oaks $1,199,000

4 Beds, 3 Baths, 2,821 sq. ft.

3 Beds, 2 Baths, 2,039 sq. ft., Pool

3 Beds, 2 Baths, 2,217 sq. ft.

BARRY DANTAGNAN 818.426.8677

barrydantagnan@gmail.com © 2018 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Owned By a Subsidiary of NRT LLC. Broker does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size or other information concerning the condition or features of property provided by 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. If your property is currently listed for sale, this is not intended as a solicitation. Cal RE #01020477

Nobody does it better...

sold

4121 Longridge Ave., Sherman Oaks $7,350,000 www.NewLongridgeEstate.com

sold

5421 Amestoy Ave., Encino $2,350,000 www.AmestoyAvenueEstate.com

sold

17437 Palora St., Encino $4,495,000 www.PaloraEstate.com

active

17428 Oak Creek Ct., Encino $2,299,000 www.OakSpringsEstate.com

sold

3833 Hayvenhurst Dr., Encino $3,799,000 www.RoyalOaksColony.com

sold

4811 Encino Ter., Encino $2,199,000 www.EncinoTerraceEstate.com

sold

3856 Vista Linda Dr., Encino $1,599,000 www.VistaLindaEstate.com

sold

16716 Alginet Pl., Encino $1,532,500 Encino Hills

16214 Morrison St., Encino $1,539,660 www.HomeOnMorrison.com

sold

just listed

17038 Adlon Rd., Encino $1,729,000 www.AdlonRoad.com

sold

3550 Ballina Canyon Rd., Encino $1,699,000 www.BallinaCanyon.com

14839 Round Valley Dr., Sherman Oaks $1,520,000 www.RoundValleyDrive.com

active

5317 Amestoy Ave., Encino $2,499,000 www.AmestoyEstateEncino.com

818.285.3688 www.CarolWolfe.com CalDRE #00477745

#1 Agent Rodeo Realty San Fernando Valley

sold

19660 Greenbriar Dr., Tarzana $1,299,000 www.HouseOnGreenbriar.com

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Competitive rates for mortgages up to $5 million If you’re planning to buy a higher-value home, Bank of America can help. We offer jumbo loans that can meet a variety of needs. The benefits of a jumbo loan include: • Loan amounts up to $5 million on owner-occupied properties, up to $3 million on second homes and up to $1 million on investment homes¹

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last word

Man Up Lessons for all guys in the #MeToo movement WRITTEN BY MICHAEL GOLDMAN

As the hideous behavior of the Harvey Weinsteins of this world emerged, it provoked intense scrutiny over what constitutes proper versus improper conduct toward women. But as #MeToo forces a cultural pivot away from a way of life that, for too long, favored silencing the offended over punishing the offender, we don’t often take into account the effect on the average guy. I’m a middle-aged man who works at home, married happily for nearly 20 years, with two teenage boys. So guys like me aren’t the typical offenders. Still, we all have a past. And many of us are evaluating ourselves today as compared to “back then.” I’ve never crossed any red lines that I’m aware of, but that doesn’t mean I didn’t think or even say the occasional inappropriate thing, flirt in ways I thought were harmless—but perhaps weren’t—or date a co-worker. Recently I watched a cable TV panel debate the issue. One of the men challenged a colleague who spoke in support of the #MeToo movement and the need for men to tighten boundaries. The man demanded to know if the articulate #MeToo supporter had ever acted like a boor, insisting, “we all did it” at some point. He suggested we shouldn’t overcompensate by treating everyone who once made a mistake, an off-color comment or offered a too-tight hug as if they were, in fact, Harvey Weinstein. He was right, of course, but then so was the other guy when he responded. He confessed to having had “moments” back in the day. The difference, he

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contended, was that he lusted “for” women and fantasized “about” them. He insisted what he never did was touch someone intimately without permission, attempt to force anyone to do anything or use a position of power as sexual leverage. Point of fact: Men will always lust for women. This cultural shift simply underscores that we do not have a right to assume such desires trump social, professional and moral obligations. Men need to show respect and impulse control. There is nothing wrong with evolving, becoming better men, husbands and fathers. I for one, am using current events as a teaching tool with my sons. Perhaps men who are feeling sensitive to what is going on should spend less time agonizing whether some folks are “going overboard” and instead focus on our moms, wives and daughters. This movement is happening because there really has been a problem forever. No one wants his or her loved ones harassed— let’s use that as a guidepost. I suggest that the effort required to control one’s impulses has to be less onerous a task than living with the hurt, shame, consequences and sense of failure a man brings on himself and his family when he fails to behave in a decent manner. We can’t avoid the repercussions anymore. That ship has sailed. ■ Michael Goldman is a freelance writer who covers the film industry and other media-related topics. For more, go to hollywoodscribe.com.

Andrew & Harriet

Results That Will Move You!

4762 White Oak Ave, Encino $2,977,770 | www.4762WhiteOakAve.com

19245 Casa Place, Tarzana $2,250,000 | www.19245CasaPlace.com

Andrew & Harriet Did It Again! Recent Sales 4529 Gloria Ave, Encino. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $4,225,000 5450 Topeka Dr, Tarzana. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2,753,750 16998 Encino Hills Dr, Encino. . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2,710,000 5128 Libbit Ave, Encino. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2,700,000 4101 Witzel Dr. Sherman Oaks. . . . . . . . . $2,435,000 16341 Meadowridge Rd, Encino. . . . . . . . . $2,392,500 17149 McCormick St, Encino. . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2,273,880 4441 Densmore Ave, Encino. . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2,225,000 4356 Empress Ave. Encino. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2,220,00 16634 Oak View Dr, Encino. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2,137,200 4483 Estrondo Dr. Encino. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,985,000 14540 Valley Vista Bl, Sherman Oaks. . . . . . $1,970,000 3531 Alana Dr, Sherman Oaks. . . . . . . . . . . . $1,860,000

16055 Meadowcrest Rd, Sherman Oaks. . . . $1,720,000 4156 Hazeltine Ave. Sherman Oaks. . . . . . $1,700,000 13019 Bloomfield St, Studio City. . . . . . . . . . . . $1,665,000 3619 Cananea Dr, Encino. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,650,000 15459 Dickens St, Sherman Oaks. . . . . . . . . . $1,630,000 3668 Willowcrest Ave, Studio City. . . . . . $1,599,000 14825 Sutton St, Sherman Oaks. . . . . . . . . . . $1,500,000 Represented Both Buyer & Seller 16067 Valley Wood Rd, Sherman Oaks. . . . $3,500,000 4701 Hayvenhurst Ave, Encino. . . . . . . . . . $3,425,000 3932 Vantage Ave, Studio City. . . . . . . . . . . $2,300,000 16618 Oak View Court, Encino. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,560,000 12942 Bloomfield St, Studio City. . . . . . . . . . . . In Escrow

AndrewSpitz.com

HarrietCameron.com

BRE#924610 Realtor®

BRE#675971 Realtor®

818-817-4284

818-380-2151

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