Ventura Blvd November 2016

WHERE WE LIVE

OURVE N T U RA B LV D.CO M

SIX DOLLARS

Fall into the Season

NOVEMBER 2016

Calabasas | Encino | Sherman Oaks | Studio City | Tarzana | Toluca Lake | Woodland Hills

ON VIEW AT THE SKIRBALL OCTOBER 7, 2016–MARCH 12, 2017

ROY LICHTENSTEIN IN L.A. A new retrospective of more than seventy remarkable works by the Pop Art master

skirball.org/lichtenstein

2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd.

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

ROY LICHTENSTEIN, NUDE WITH BLUE HAIR, STATE I (DETAIL), FROM THE NUDES SERIES, 1994. PRIVATE COLLECTION, LOS ANGELES. © ESTATE OF ROY LICHTENSTEIN

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November 17 th

Come EXPERIENCE a Unique Dinner and a Show at THE LIVING KITCHEN in Calabasas with Pioneering Chefs Elvia and Ramon Saldivar and learn how to prepare authentic, HEALTHY Mexican.

For more details and a special COMPLIMENTARY INVITE visit UAKC.com/events

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THE BEST PLACE TO SEE

BEYOND HORIZON THE

IS FROM DEEP IN THE VALLEY

This is where individuals rise, and through them, we all do.

See how CSUN graduates elevate Los Angeles at CSUN.EDU/RISE

Welcome to the EatSide Visit Glendale’s new block of bites across from The Americana at Brand.

NOW OPEN OPENING LATE FALL

252 South Brand Blvd, Glendale

Visit 252SouthBrand.com for more details.

NOVEMBER 2016

Where We Live 34 Kid Stuff

22 Q & A

DNC Student Delegate

The Doc is In

32

36 As You Were

28 Block Party

Atwater Village

Valley’s Original Hostess 39 Datebook

30 Wellness

Fun Stuff to Do

Body Buffing

40 Style File

32 Local Talent

The Juber Family

Get Your Bootie On 44 SEEN

Faces Spotted Around Town

50

The Sauce 50 Mediterranean Mecca

Mizlala 54 Best Burrito

Taste Test 56 Winning Recipe

Sweet Potato Bourbon Chili

60

Features 60

From farmers market gourds to flowers, discover how to add westcoast flair to your Thanksgiving.

And Then Some...

26 Staycation

Great Getaways

67 Profiles

Finance & Wealth Management Spectacular Local Listings

In Style

Meet some cutting-edge fashion entrepreneurs—and see some of this season’s most dramatic looks.

94 Profiles 101 Real Estate

Setting a New Mood

79

The First Flip

The Flipped Classroom teaching method is on the rise. Learn which local schools are embracing it.

122 Last Word

Sting Surprise 82

The Great ‘Scape

With the help of a talented landscape designer, a Valley family increases living space while dramatically cutting water needs.

90 Cover

Photograph of Beth Neely by Shane O’Donnell

A La Carte

Come along on one woman’s journey as she eats her way through France— Michelin-style.

YOUR CHILD’S FUTURE IS CLOSER THAN YOU THINK. QUITE LITERALLY. The majority of HESCHEL families drive from Studio City, Sherman Oaks, Encino, Tarzana, Woodland Hills and Calabasas. Make the drive yourself and visit during one of our Open House events and learn about our rich dual-curricular education that fosters a love of learning, our warm, supportive community & our athletics, arts and technology programs.

TK-5th Grade Open House: November 10, 2016 Grades 6-8 Open House: November 20, 2016

heschel.com / 818.368.5781 / 17701 Devonshire Street, Northridge CA 91325

SPA, BEAUTY & FITNESS

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

GROUP PUBLISHER

Linda Grasso

Jared Sayers

ART DIRECTOR

ADVERTISING Associate Publisher | Mia L. Pierre-Jacques

Michelle Villas

EDITORIAL Editorial Director | Darren Elms

310-880-0559 | mia@moontidemedia.com

Copy Editors | Peggy Jo Abraham,

310-663-4609 | dt@moontidemedia.com

Laura Watts

Senior Account Executive | Robin Sanders

Graphic Designer | Christine Georgiades

818-427-2050 | robin@moontidemedia.com

Senior Account Executive | Dale Tiffany

VB’s The Sauce eNewsletter Editor

Account Executive | Derek Poole

Joshua Lurie

310-266-3846 | derek@moontidemedia.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Account Executive | Erika Carrion

Heather David, Diane Haithman, Jenny

310-897-2424 | erika@moontidemedia.com

Karl, Amber Klinck, Hadley Hall Meares,

Account Executive | Marcie Gutierrez

Kara Mickelson, Tanya Monaghan, Jennie

424-220-6337 | marcie@moontidemedia.com

Nunn, Shannon Sharpe, Susan Spillman

Account Executive | Amy Tetherow

424-220-6338 | amy@moontidemedia.com

PHOTOGRAPHERS Annie Deptula, Tameka Jacobs, Luis Luque, Kremer Johnson Photography, Shane O’Donnell, Lauren Pressey

MANAGING PARTNERS Charles C. Koones

Todd Klawin

MARKETING & OPERATIONS

The finest professionals in theValley

Partner/Brand Publisher | Emily Stewart Partner/Managing Director, Media & Analytics | Warren Schaffer Brand Publisher | Hannah Lee Associate Brand Publisher | Cherice Tatum Director of Digital | Charles Simmons Director of Film & Video | Bryce Lowe-White Art Director | Angela Akers Operations Manager | Allison Jeackjuntra Marketing Manager | Rachel Gotko Marketing Manager | 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 Moon Tide Media, LLC. Any and all submissions to this or any Moon Tide Media, LLC publication become the property of Moon Tide Media, LLC and may be used in any media. We reserve the right to edit.

TO OUR READERS Ventura Blvd magazine welcomes your feedback.

Please send letters to: Reader Response Department, Ventura Blvd Magazine, 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.

200 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Ste. 110, El Segundo, CA 90245 Tel 310-376-7800 | Fax 310-376-0200 | MoonTideMedia.com | OurVenturaBlvd.com

The ideal location for your getaway.

Midway between SF & LA, Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa is an ideal location for your getaway. This elegant, all-suite resort offers an experience unlike any other. Indulge in California Cuisine at Lido Restaurant or rejuvenate with treatments at The Spa. Escape the Ordinary at Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa.

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|

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EDITOR’S LETTER | LINDA GRASSO

Past, Present & Future

W

hen I moved to LA in 1993 one of the first things I did was drive by my grandparents’ first house in Atwater Village. I was psyched for a little dose of ancestry.com. But once we arrived, I was taken aback. It was run down; the neighborhood looked like it had seen better times. Cut to 2016. While doing our “Block Party” photo shoot (page 28) I drove by the location again and wow—what a difference! I saw a lovely home with well-appointed landscaping, sitting amidst a neighborhood in full-gentrification mode. That upswing mirrors what’s happened along the quaint but sophisticated main drag—making Atwater Village a sheer delight for a day trip.

Speaking of beautiful landscaping, I’m so inspired by what designer Zabra Yee did on the grounds of a colonial home in Sherman Oaks (page 82). The homeowners’ goals were to reduce water use and to increase living space. With strategic planning, thoughtful plant selection and great attention to detail, Zabra delivered in spades—right down to the stunning fountain she designed on a section of the yard the owner uses for yoga.

We sent our two boys to local schools with traditional academic programs. I watched them struggle nightly with the thick humanities textbooks (originally published decades ago and slightly modified each year—just enough so you’d have to buy them new every fall instead of buying used versions). To say the books were “dry” is an understatement.

And with math, they’d get stuck and we simply couldn’t help them. Then I’d watch them memorize for the tests—only to dismiss a lot of the material shortly thereafter. It all felt a bit antiquated.

The Flipped Classroom (profiled on page 79), a new teaching method, addresses this conundrum. In “flipped” classrooms, kids are interactive (with other students as well as the teacher) and learning is hands-on. Students get lectures at night via computer. The method is gaining popularity nationwide and writer Susan Spillman profiles some of the Valley schools that are using it. Is “flipping” the answer? Studies are inconclusive at this stage, but the method sure feels more current and I think they are on to something.

With fall in full swing, have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday. Eat. Drink. Play.

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

at linda@moontidemedia.com.

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VENTURA BLVD, NOVEMBER 2016

ourventurablvd.com

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Good Vibrations Communiqué from our readers

I can’t begin to describe how much pleasure I get from reading your magazine. Like many of your readers (and realtors who advertise), I grew up not far from you and see the community through a lens that spans more than 50 (!) years. Ventura Blvd succeeds in paying homage to the colorful past of our Valley, while conveying a dynamic vision for its present and future. Reading each issue makes me feel INCREDIBLY fashionable. Just as important, the content reeks of authenticity. Your editor letter in every issue is heartfelt, and it shows. I admire the business you’ve built and the way you have built it. In the often cynical and commercial world we are raising our children in, you have softened the heart of this Valley boy.

Rob Cantz Studio City

ourventurablvd.com

I wanted to let you know I was just called out of my office to go speak with two people who came to Claudine after reading your article (in the Summer/FOOD issue), and both ordered the quiche that was mentioned in the piece. They loved it. So nice to know people actually read today! Not just bullet points and pictures! Thank you!

Lea Newton Pastry Chef/Partner Claudine—Artisan Kitchen & Bakeshop

I’m really reaching out because I recently had the ice cream at Salt & Straw in Studio City. I had the maple butter and green onion hoe cake—a flavor that resulted from Salt & Straw’s collaboration with Barrel and Ashes (restaurant). I was so blown away by the flavor profiles and the yum factor, it caused me to find the article you put out about the collaborations Salt & Straw is doing with local chefs. That article was so inspiring! I really love what you guys are doing.

Ashley Prikryl North Hollywood

I thoroughly enjoy Ventura Blvd magazine, especially having been born and raised in Encino and still residing there. You have had many fabulous stories on locals and I really enjoyed your current women’s issue.

Scott Lasker Encino

I rarely read magazines these days. The celebrity thing is so overdone and the articles tend to be repetitive. But when I get Ventura Blvd I read it cover to cover. There simply isn’t any other place to get interesting little tidbits about my ‘hood. I always find something I want to do or a place I want to go. Thank you for daring to be different.

Jenny Berg Sherman Oaks

NOVEMBER 2016, VENTURA BLVD

17

COMING THIS FALL:

INTERACTIVE OPEN HOUSE EVENTS CALENDAR Ventura Blvd Magazine will host a comprehensive calendar of the finest Open House events for schools in our area. Plan your fall using this easy to navigate guide.

Find it live mid-September at

OurVenturaBlvd.com/OpenHouses

Want to include your events? Find out how by contacting Robin Sanders at 818-427-2050 or robin@moontidemedia.com

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WHERE WE LIVE

Sweet Strolls

PHOTOGRAPHED BY TAMEKA JACOBS

Scrumptuous baked goods are just part of the fun in Atwater Village. We map out an ideal day for exploring the quaint enclave on page 34...

WHERE WE LIVE | Q&A

Healthful Hints From fighting the flu to evaluating medical facilities in the Valley, ER doctor and urgent care facility owner Dr. Anthony Cardillo offers some counsel.

WRITTEN BY HEATHER

DAVID GEORGIADES

ILLUSTRATED BY CHRISTINE

Dr. Anthony Cardillo has spent nearly two decades as head of the ER at Glendale Adventist Medical Center. More recently he opened Mend Urgent Care, with locations in Sherman Oaks, Van Nuys and Burbank.

We asked this dad of three and husband of child psychiatrist, Dr. Kim Cardillo, for advice on some health topics that are on our mind—starting with the reversal of opinion on FluMist.

Should our kids be getting the popular nasal spray, FluMist?

The American Academy of Pediatrics recently came out and said FluMist has very little utility and it will not be recommended for children this year. With FluMist, you’re actually taking a live virus, you’re dampening it down a little

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VENTURA BLVD, NOVEMBER 2016

bit and having the child build antibodies against it.

The injection, on the other hand, is a not a virus. It’s a protein derivative that the immune system recognizes and to which it builds up antibodies.

What precautions should the rest of the family take?

My entire family will be getting the flu vaccine this year. All children and adults—especially the elderly—should too.

Give us some guidelines for keeping kids, who appear to be under the weather, home from school?

School-age children are transmitting viruses back and forth constantly. There are literally hundreds of different viruses they can transmit, causing a day or two of illness. If your child has a fever greater than 100.4° and/or exhibits any signs that make the virus transmissible (mucus, coughing or sneezing) they should not go to school. Wait until these signs and symptoms clear up before sending them back to class.

Why did you open your urgent care facilities throughout the Valley?

And why are we seeing so many of them these days?

In the olden days people had

one primary care doctor and that’s changed. There’s been a rapid decline in primary care doctors in the field. Also, when you’re sick you want to be seen now, not wait for an appointment a week from now. Urgent care facilities like Mend are staffed with emergency room doctors and internists. So while it’s about seeing people quickly, it’s also about meeting the needs of the patient and their family members for pediatric, adult or elderly care, in a compassionate and caring way.

When do you go to an urgent care facility versus a hospital emergency room?

For any illness that is not lifethreatening, I suggest going to the urgent care. That includes anything from colds to broken bones, lacerations and rashes.

We provide almost identical services to an ER except for cat scans. It’s the first point of contact to see a doctor quickly. If

you’re experiencing something like chest pains or debilitating severe pain, you need to call 911 or go to an emergency room.

What are some of the benefits of going to an urgent care rather than visiting an ER? The reason to go to an urgent care as opposed to an ER is speed. We see patients in less than 10 minutes. There’s also the cost. Urgent cares have much lower co-pays and deductibles than the high cost of an ER visit.

Which hospital in the Valley has the best emergency room in your opinion?

The best hospital in the entire area is Glendale Adventist, as it’s the most comprehensive.

After that, another good choice is Northridge Hospital, which also has the only pediatric trauma center in the Valley. 

ourventurablvd.com

LA SA ’s Be VE st Ar 40 tifi cia % lX O ma FF sT re es !

Christmas

‘Tis the season to discover Aldik Home, LA’s favorite Winter Wonderland for more than 60 years!

7651 Sepulveda Blvd.

Van Nuys, CA 91405

AldikHome.com

(818) 988-5970

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Visit Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit and enjoy a long stretch of pristine beach along the Puerto Vallarta coast, made even more scenic by views of the majestic Sierra Madre mountains. The AAA Five Diamond resort offers guests top-of-the-line foodie and wellness experiences, amidst contemporary Mexican architecture and tropical landscapes.

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CATALINA ISLAND With the summer crowds gone, fall is the perfect time to enjoy the soft, sandy beaches of Catalina Island. For the adventurer, there are endless island activities. From full-service hotels to rental condominiums and private homes to quaint bed and breakfast inns, there are accommodations on Catalina for every kind of traveler—at unbelievably affordable rates. Visit CatalinaChamber.com to start planning your getaway now! catalinachamber.com

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Disappearing glass doors open to wrap-around decks that ensure no sunset or breaching whale is missed. The charming towns of Barra de Navidad and Colima are a fun water taxi away and the Grand Isla Navidad resort and golf club are a short drive. A direct 2.5 hour flight from LAX leads to an incredible tropical paradise.

CALL 424.220.6321 FOR MORE INFORMATION Also Available for Lease

WHERE WE LIVE | BLOCK PARTY

Sunday Strolling

Tree Haus 3153 Glendale Blvd

From chic shops to farm-fresh eateries, spend a day exploring the unassuming and quaint town of Atwater Village.

WRITTEN BY HADLEY

THE LA RIVE

R

Bon Vivant 3155 Glendale Blvd

HALL MEARES JACOBS

PHOTOGRAPHED BY TAMEKA

Canelé 3219 Glendale Blvd

Tacos Villa Corona 3185 Glendale Blvd

All’Acqua 3280 Glendale Blvd Tam O’Shanter 2980 Los Feliz Blvd Common 3229 Glendale Blvd SA

N

estled between trendy Los Feliz and the suburbia of Glendale, Atwater Village has long been known as a sleepy workingclass neighborhood of small bungalows and single-family stuccos. In the past 10 years though, a number of quirky and chic restaurants, shops and galleries have moved in. Somehow though, the east Valley enclave has managed to retain its small-town vibe and charm.

For a casual brunch there is no place better than the warm and inviting Village Bakery and Cafe. Owner Barbara Monderine has created a

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VENTURA BLVD, NOVEMBER 2016

DO

NAN

R N FE

RD

farm-fresh menu featuring delicious pastries, egg dishes and simple, hearty sandwiches. The mouthwatering “Thanksgiving on a bun” is a must-try. Afterwards head to nearby North Atwater Park and Riverwalk, where you can enjoy a scenic stroll along the LA River, past some of the city’s last remaining horse-boarding facilities.

On Glendale Blvd., you will find a plethora of small, locally owned shops like Common, owned by two sisters. It offers a carefully curated selection of casual, fashion-forward women’s clothing and jewelry at remarkably affordable prices. The lifestyle boutique Tree

Haus sells everything from paintings by local artists to unique toys to handmade clothes.

For families, there is The Great Escape Club, an open play space, which includes a special area for parents to kick back.

Glendale Blvd. is also the hub of Atwater’s vibrant dining scene, which boasts the popular pan-Italian-inspired All’Acqua, where Chef Don Dickman can be found “throwing his dough” as he makes one of the establishment’s famed wood-fired pizzas. A stone’s throw away is Canele, a farmers market-sourced eatery where diners enjoy hearty Mediterranean fare in a delightful bohemian bistro setting. To eat

ourventurablvd.com

BLOCK PARTY | WHERE WE LIVE

Greetings from Dr. Tolbert HAD A SURGERY BUT STILL IN PAIN?

THE 5 FREEWA Y

TH E

134

Village Bakery 3119 Los Feliz Blvd

NEED TO REDUCE YOUR OPIOID DEPENDENCE? AFRAID TO BE IN PAIN?

Golden Road Brewing 5430 W San Fernando Rd

Dr. Tolbert specializes in minimally invasive procedures & treatments to rehabilitate and get rid of pain.

O RD

W SAN FERNAND

If dependent on medication, we can reduce or eliminate your dependence and pain.

North Atwater Park and Riverwalk 3900 Chevy Chase Dr

Call NOW To Schedule A Private Consultation!

818.784.7197 “OUR job is to make you FABULOUS”

like a local, meet up at Bon Vivant, the undisputed neighborhood Cheers. This cozy, bustling hub features a full bar, upscale vegan desserts and a menu offering a large variety of healthy (and not so healthy) options.

For eating on the run, grab a taco from the window at Tacos Villa Corona.

It’ll be the best two-buck taco you’ve ever tasted. Or if you are there on a Sunday, graze among the food vendors (and get your grocery shopping done) at the farmers market set up at 3250 Glendale Blvd.

For a trip down memory lane,

ourventurablvd.com

you can’t beat the local time capsule Tam O’Shanter. Opened in 1922, this Scottish-themed meat and potatoes eatery was a favorite of Walt Disney.

And for a place to park all day, there is the popular Golden Road Brewing.

This family-friendly brewery (which was recently purchased by Budweiser) features ample outdoor seating, an enticing bar menu and a play space for the kiddies. But why would you want to stay in one spot all day when there is so much in Atwater Village to enjoy and explore? 

17609 Ventura Blvd., Suite 114 Encino, CA 91316 Phone: 818.784.7197 Fax: 818.784.3060

www.Center4rehab.com

Hear Dr. Tolbert’s CNN interview

www.snappytv.com/tc/1886415

NOVEMBER 2016, VENTURA BLVD

41

WHERE WE LIVE | WELLNESS

KAYO TO THE TEST Musings from the VB magazine team DAILY REMODELING SERUM $46/4 FL. OZ. Product claims: repairs skin; builds collagen and reduces signs of skin damage.

First three ingredients listed: water, sodium hyaluronate, macadamia nut oil Most interesting ingredient: Copper PCA (referred to as “copper peptides”), which gives the product its blue hue Our notes: Glides on and feels good. Smells good too (not overly fragrant or perfumed).

SMOOTH OPERATOR Kayo cofounder Christine Bullock

About Face

A new skin care line by two SoCal women is made for the whole body—not just the face.

T

he body’s largest organ is the skin. So why do we treat only 5% of it—the face? Christine Bullock and Carrington Snyder, two health and beauty experts, aim to change that with their new line, Kayo, Better Body Care.

“The skin on your body is just as important as the skin on your face and should be treated as such,” says Christine, a well-known Hermosa Beachbased fitness instructor who also appears in promotional photos for the line.

Though created for the body, the products can also be used on the face. “We personally ditched all our expensive face creams and only use Kayo now. Our skin has never looked better!” shares Carrington. She advises people to test a small area before applying on the face.

Ingredients include edibles like the super fruits goji, acai and pomegranate. “We’ve included many ingredients from nature, known for their reparative properties. But what makes Kayo unique and effective is the combination and amount of ingredients—along with innovative methods to make sure the skin actually absorbs them,” says Christine.

The Kayo line is manufactured in a Camarillo-based lab owned by Carrington’s family.

The former attorney, who lives in Malibu, seems to have cosmetics in her blood. Her mother, Sari, is the founder and developer of the well-established Ayur-Medic line. 

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THE BODY BEAUTIFUL CRÈME $58/8 FL. OZ. Product claims: offers all-day hydration while renewing, smoothing and replenishing natural moisture.

First three ingredients listed: water, cetyl ricinoleate, cetereath 20 & cetearyl alcohol Most interesting ingredient: CoQ10, an antioxidant that is made in the human body; also comes in the form of a supplement, which is typically used to promote heart and vascular health.

Our notes: Super creamy and rich. Quickly absorbed. Skin feels remarkably moist into the next day.

CELLULAR REPAIR EVENING OIL $68/4 FL. OZ. Product claims: Infuses skin with youth for the ultimate beauty sleep.

First three ingredients listed: ethylhexyl macadamia (emollient derived from macadamia), caprylic/capric triglycerides (coconut fatty acids), linoleic acid (omega-6 fatty acid) Most interesting ingredient: an anti-inflammatory blend of rosemary, barley and rice extracts Our notes: Nice, spicy scent. Quickly absorbed and like with all great aromatherapy, you’ll feel like you’ve just had a great massage.

For more on the sulfate- and paraben-free line, go to kayocosmetics.com.

ourventurablvd.com

A distinctive and dynamic K-12 independent college preparatory school.

Excellent academics with an ethos of innovation and continual improvement in a nurturing environment.

Come for a visit!

Weekday individual tours

Kindergarten Saturday Open Houses - Oct. 29 and Dec. 3 Upper School Open House - Saturday, Oct 22 Middle School Open House - Saturday, Nov 19 Middle and Upper School Admission Preview Day - Saturday, Dec 3 www.viewpoint.org/admission or 818-591-6560 23620 Mulholland Highway, Calabasas, CA 91302

ourventurablvd.com

NOVEMBER 2016, VENTURA BLVD

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WHERE WE LIVE | LOCAL TALENT

The Juber Bunch From creating legendary sitcoms to best-selling hip-hop, talent has been in the Juber family blood for three generations.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY KREMER WRITTEN BY DIANE

JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHY HAITHMAN

I

n the 1960s, for most kids, the end of the school day signaled time to ride bikes, play hopscotch or get a jump on tomorrow’s spelling quiz. But life after school at Studio City’s Carpenter Avenue Elementary was much different for Hope Schwartz and friend Carrie Nodella. They would walk to CBS Studio Center to visit their TV producer fathers on the set.

Hope’s father, Sherwood Schwartz, was the creator/producer of Gilligan’s Island (196467). Burt Nodella was the producer of Get Smart (1965-70). “We would just walk down to the set and say, ‘OK, are we going to go to the island or off to KAOS?’” recalls Hope—now Hope Juber—referring to the goofy “international organization of evil” in Get Smart.

There were times when Hope, now a writer, performer and producer in her own right, tried to escape the long shadow of her father (he passed away in 2011) and his two iconic TV projects: Gilligan and The Brady Bunch (1969-74), which borrowed plenty of story lines from the real-life Schwartz bunch.

When she played the role of Greg’s girlfriend on Brady, Hope used the name Hope Sherwood and continued to use it during her writing career, which included collaborations with her father—a Brady-themed TV series and stage musical.

In marriage, she was drawn to another creative spirit—British-born musician Laurence Juber, best known as lead guitarist for Paul McCartney’s Wings. The Grammy winner has released 23 solo acoustic guitar albums, including the latest, Fingerboard Road. “We met at an improv club. She was waiting to meet a date. I took one look at her and the universe shifted,” remembers Laurence. The couple, who married 11 months later, have two children—both of whom inherited the “creative gene.”

Daughter Ilsey is 30. Valley residents may remember her as the free spirit with a guitar at Studio City’s Coffee Fix back in the early 2000s. After graduating from Oakwood School, she tried a year of college but felt stronger inclinations to work in the music industry. Originally Ilsey had her heart set on being a performer, but she started writing songs and much to her surprise, had one “put on hold” for Rihanna. “It never got recorded but it signaled to me that hey, maybe I have something here. And I started going down that lane and trying to be the best I possibly could be.” The rising star has since written songs for J. Lo, Beyonce, Pitbull, Robin Schulz and Shawn Mendes, to name a few.

Daughter Nico, 33, works in marketing for a software company but keeps the creative juices flowing with digital projects, including a scripted web series. With a friend, she is launching toughmommas.com, a website offering an at-home exercise regimen for busy moms like herself.

And for the past two summers, Hope’s comedy stage piece Without Annette, which fuses a scripted play with improv scenes, played at Sherman Oaks’ Whitefire Theatre.

Some nights Laurence treated lucky patrons to an impromptu preshow concert.

Ilsey says she’s always been proud of the Gilligan-Brady connection. “It was this special thing that I had; I was a part of something that was bigger,” she muses. “When I talk about connecting with people and influencing people with my music, that’s what those shows did, they touched people in a certain way.”

In the center of Hope and Laurence’s living room stands the grand piano where Sherwood wrote (with collaborators) the memorable theme songs for Gilligan and Brady. She’s comfortable with that now, embracing her father’s legacy.

Still, Hope is proud to call Without Annette her own. “It had nothing to do with Brady. It had nothing to do with Gilligan,” she says. “If you are creative, you have to create. That’s all there is to it.” 

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LOCAL TALENT | WHERE WE LIVE

HOMEMADE JAM Ilsey, Laurence, Hope and Nico Juber in the family’s living room. The bronzed, original skipper’s hat from Gilligan’s Island rests on the piano.

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WHERE WE LIVE | KIDS STUFF

Unconventional Teen Clinton? Trump? How does the name “O’Dea” strike you? Meet a local student who seems destined for the political arena.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE

O’DONNELL

W

ith a friendly smile and a slightly awkward half-boy/half-man demeanor, Jack O’Dea comes off like a typical 18-year-old.

But ask him about politics and anything that hints at “boyish” vanishes. “It is really shocking that Trump has gotten this far,” he says with the piercing look of a seasoned political operative.

He may not be an operative, but Jack seems well on his way to being an integral part of the Democratic Party. The 2016 Oakwood School graduate was a delegate at the Democratic National Convention this past summer. “I was the second youngest delegate. The youngest, from Texas, was six months younger than me,” he explains.

Jack, who is currently a freshman at Northwestern University, has a pretty good idea why Bernie Sanders delegates voted for him to represent the 30th Congressional District (comprised of Sherman Oaks, Encino and Northridge). “I’m not what you’d think you’d see at these kind of events. You usually see older people and the same people again and again.” That, coupled with the fact that Jack is adept at social media, clinched the deal. “They really liked that,” he concludes.

Jack’s dad, a food consultant, traveled with him to Philadelphia; his mom, who works in labor relations for Disney, stayed behind at the family’s Sherman Oaks home.

“It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I felt privileged to be there,” says Jack.

Jack’s interest in politics was first sparked watching the protests in the Ukraine, the ousting of its president and the ensuing rebellion. “I got deeply embedded into that story. It made me realize the importance of politics. I realized I could get involved to make sure that something like that never happens here.”

He volunteered at a Bernie Sanders fundraiser in June of 2015 and became active in his campaign. “Bernie was able to be a strong and passionate voice for what the youth—and so many of the disillusioned—felt on the left of the political spectrum. He matched me policy-wise, from health care to foreign policy and economics/trade and was able to get things done.”

At Northwestern, Jack plans to major in International Studies. “Do I want to get involved with voter registration? Ballot initiatives? Run for office? I might like to work in a congressional office or at the State Department.

I’m not exactly sure what I’ll do. But I’m pretty certain I’ll be involved.” 

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G N I

G N I

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K C A

Preschool - Eighth Grade

SCHEDULE A TOUR OR ATTEND AN OPEN HOUSE October 18: Middle School 6:00 pm-7:30 pm October 20: Elementary School 10:00 am - 11:30 am October 27: Preschool 10:00 am -11:30 am

admissions: 818-769-2511

www.country-school.org

NOVEMBER 2016, VENTURA BLVD

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WHERE WE LIVE | AS YOU WERE

Queen Bee As we head into the holiday season, meet a woman who is considered the Valley’s original hostess.

WRITTEN BY HADLEY

HALL MEARES GEORGIADES

ILLUSTRATED BY CHRISTINE

T

he journey of a Butterfield Overland Mail Company stagecoach during the mid-19th century was an arduous one. Cramped passengers, nine to a coach, traveled hours a day on the dusty, dangerous route from St. Louis to San Francisco. Their only respite was at rustic rest stops scattered along

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the way. But when the stage stopped at Lopez Station in the San Fernando Valley, bone-tired passengers met with a welcome sight. The large adobe was clean and bustling, with a general store, post office and dining facilities. Most importantly, proprietress Catalina Lopez, elegant and educated, was there to greet them with a hot meal, warm bed and gracious words.

Catalina was born in 1831. In 1837, her father, Don Pedro Lopez, was appointed majordomo of the San Fernando Mission [It remains standing, just south of Sylmar.] and Catalina grew up there. In her later years, she remembered the property “with beautiful orchards and gardens surrounding it and the wide plains in front of it covered with cattle and sheep.” Later she was sent to LA to be educated. In 1851 she married a fellow SoCal native, Geronimo Lopez, who as a teenage messenger had delivered the Articles of Capitulation to John C. Fremont, which officially ended the Mexican-American War. In 1861 the Lopezes bought 40 acres of wild, mustard-covered land just north of the crumbling mission, in what is now Granada Hills.

They built a spacious adobe [the current site of

the Van Norman Dam], which became known as Lopez Station. Besides the old mission and a few small adobes, the family, which included 13 children, had grazing cattle as their nearest neighbors. But they were not lonely. Two or three times a week the Butterfield stagecoach would arrive, bringing an influx of guests.

Valley residents also came to the station to patronize the family’s general store and the first Valley post office, opened in 1869.

Eventually the Lopezes opened the Valley’s first English-speaking school at the station, which was the hub of burgeoning Valley society. Catalina was its undisputed queen—a charming hostess, who loved to entertain, dance and work in her garden.

In later years, the family moved east to the town of San Fernando, where they took up residence in a two-story Mission Revival/ Victorian-style structure finished in 1883. Here Catalina, the Valley’s most beloved elder stateswoman, continued to entertain until she died just shy of her 90th birthday. Today visitors are still welcome to tour Catalina’s house, Lopez Adobe [1100 Pico Street], which was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1971. 

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FREE

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OPEN HOUSE Sun., Nov. 20, 2016 | 12:30-4 PM

Sunday, November 22 | 1:00-4:00 PM

RSVP at mhs-la.org/visit

I cho se

feel comfortable in class here. All day we are constantly learning together with faculty who push us to do our best. Whether I’m in class, spending time with friends around campus, or on the bus, I feel at home and that I can be myself.

.. use. ca

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(at the corner of Woodman & Ventura) Parking In Rear

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818.906.2345 Mon-Fri 6am-10pm | Sat 8am-8pm | Sun 9am-5pm | Overnight Service WWW.STEAMERCLEANERS.COM

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10643 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90077 | 310.472.1205

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OPENING SOON

We are a Japanese eyewear brand with 700 different styles.

We make glasses in 30 minutes and our all-in-one pricing starts at $60.

OPENING SOON

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OPENING SOON

Westfield Fashion Square 14006 Riverside Drive Sherman Oaks, CA 91423 Mon – Fri 10-9pm Sun 11-7pm OPENING SOON www.jins.com

OPENING SOON

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DATEBOOK | WHERE WE LIVE

DATE WORTHY L.A. Food Studios at the Skirball Skirball Cultural Center Visit the “open studios” of six of LA’s most creative and adventurous chefs on Sunday, November 13. Demonstrations on creating signature dishes, Q & A and samples for tasting. skirball.org

L.A. FOOD STUDIOS AT THE SKIRBALL PHOTOGRAPHED BY JACKOB M LAYMAN | COURTESY OF BAROO; CALIFORNIA SCIENCE CENTER PHOTOGRAPHED BY KRISTINA KURASZ

The Science Behind Pixar

California Science Center This newly opened 12,000-squarefoot exhibit offers a first-time look into the Pixar process. It showcases the science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) concepts used to help bring films to the big screen. californiasciencecenter.org

Spider Pavilion

Natural History Museum Come meet some of the world’s most misunderstood creatures in a one-of-a-kind exhibit that opens Friday, October 28. Place yourself in a spider enclosure and marvel at their beauty and magnificent webs. nhm.org

Now Open

November

Batchelder: Tilemaker The first local exhibition of the work of Ernest Batchelder, a key figure in the Arts & Crafts movement. Through February 12, 2017. pasadenahistory.org

5 John Ono Lennon, The Fab Faux Celebrate a Life in Songs A celebration of the life and music of John Lennon. valleyperformingartscenter.org

Chinese Woodblock Prints An exhibition that explores the art, craft and cultural significance of Chinese woodblock prints made from the 16th through the 19th centuries. Through January 9, 2017. huntington.org

6 Eye on L.A.: Ventura Blvd The long-running lifestyle show devotes an entire episode to the Boulevard. Airs at 6:30 p.m. abc7.com/eyeonla

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12 & 13 American Indian Arts Marketplace A high-end marketplace featuring 200 artists, representing more than 40 tribes. theautry.org

18 Reindeer Romp and L.A. Zoo Lights Visit real reindeer during the day. At night, marvel at a fantastical wonderland populated by glowing animals. Both attractions run through the end of the year. lazoo.org 19, 20 & 21 Thanksgiving Cooking Lessons From the sides to the pie to the table, a series of three sessions aimed at preparing a memorable meal. theblvdkitchen.com 25 Enchanted: Forest of Light A one-mile walk through Descanso Gardens, which will be adorned with largescale holiday lighting displays. Some are interactive and have sounds. Through January 8, 2017. descansogardens.org

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WHERE WE LIVE | STYLE FILE

Mules in black by Matisse with tassels, $135; matissefootwear.com

Shoe Biz A sneak peek at what’s trending in fall footwear STYLED BY TANYA

MONAGHAN O’DONNELL

PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE

Over-the-ankle “Landon” bootie by Dolce Vita in taupe suede, $160; shopbop.com

High-heel shoes with tie by Sam Edelman, $130; Bloomingdale’s at Westfield Fashion Square

Rich burgundy velvet “Genoa” heels by Rag & Bone, $495; lyst.com

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STYLE FILE | WHERE WE LIVE

Block heel by Seychelles, $110;Nordstrom’s at Westfield Topanga

Silver laminated sneaker, $40; Zara at Westfield Fashion Square and Westfield Topanga

Over-the-knee boot by Dolce Vita, $200; Bloomingdale’s at Westfield Fashion Square

High-heel boot in green suede by Isabel Marant, $720; shopstyle.com

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B E V E R LY H I L L S

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23501 Park Sorrento Suite 103 Calabasas, CA 91302

1.800.655.4766

Exclusivity in Practice, Integrity in Performance, Results-Oriented Divorce Attorneys

The law firm of Feinberg & Waller, APC, is known as a formidable force of attorneys practicing in all aspects of complex divorce and family law matters. Feinberg & Waller’s lawyers have dealt with the top family law attorneys in the nation. The law firm is at the forefront of family law thinking, leadership, information, and continuing legal education in California. We derive great satisfaction from practicing in such an all-encompassing, complicated, and challenging field.

We are honored to have the privilege to be in this profession; it allows us to problem-solve and help develop individually tailored solutions for people, children, and families of this community. We enjoy promoting creative strategies with our highly skilled team of attorneys, paralegals, staff, and extensive network of experts. A hallmark of our practice is nuanced experience, distinctive in-depth perspectives, and our empathetic approach to your matter.

Mary Ellen Waller,* Attorney at Law, California and New York Bar Admissions.

Marshall Waller, Attorney at Law, Certified Family Law Specialist, California State Bar Board of Legal Specialization.

Combined, we bring more than 60 years of business and legal experience to the table.

The lawyers of Feinberg & Waller have the tenacity to negotiate the results you deserve and the ability to obtain those results through legal advocacy when necessary. We treat clients compassionately, in a respectful, discreet, and non-judgmental manner. Our goal is to adhere to principled, universal codes of ethics, and the delivery of excellent “all around” personal service that caters to the needs of our discerning clientele. *Attorney shareholder, not available for individual retention, services limited to management of Feinberg & Waller, APC

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Hecho en las Américas Re-shaping Mexican & Latin Music VOTE OR DIE LAUGHING

A POST-MODERN POLITICAL VAUDEVILLE

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CULTURE CLASH with Special Guests: La Santa Cecilia, Cristela Alonzo, Buyepongo, Pacifico Dance Company, Marga Gomez and more!

Directed by Dan Guerrero NOV 1

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WHERE WE LIVE | SEEN

Heaven’s Kitchen

Hundreds packed Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center in Studio City to see the very latest in appliance design as well as a demonstration by Saverio Posarelli.

Guests checked out the state-of-art appliances in the spacious showroom, while sipping wines from Malibu Family Vineyards.

Igor Royz and Victoria Royz

Saverio Posarelli of Cafe Fiore in Woodland HIlls wowed the crowd with the dramatic preparation a pasta dish.

Matthew Dunbar, Edward Hayrapetyan, Tim McLoughlin

Dana Delana, Melanie Meyer, Linda Grasso

PHOTOGRAPHED BY TAMEKA JACOBS

Ann Booth Luly, guest, Cathy Nelson Arkle

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SEEN | WHERE WE LIVE

In a Nutshell

weSPARK Cancer Support Center in Sherman Oaks celebrated its 15th anniversary with “May Contain Nuts” Comedy Night at the Skirball Center.

The $234,000 raised will go toward the Center, which helps cancer survivors and their families cope with the disease.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY MICHAEL SCHWARTZ; PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOHANNA SIEGMANN; PHOTOGRAPHED BY DAVID PALMER

Tim Matheson and Nancy Allen

Ray Romano on stage

Tim Matheson, Bob Gale, Charlene Sperber, Steve Porcaro

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Sharon Stone

Rachelle Carson, Amy Holland McDonald, Michael McDonald, Ed Begley, Jr.

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WHERE WE LIVE | SEEN

The 7th Annual L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade raised more than $1 million, with the help of 2,000 attendees and some of the city’s best chefs and mixologists.

The nonprofit is aimed at eradicating childhood cancer.

Kristine Lefebvre and children

Sarah Gilman, Nolan Gould, Lily Rosenthal

Kumail Nanjiani and Emily V. Gordon

Caroline Styne, David Lentz and Suzanne Goin

Joe Mantegna, Kristen Vangsness, Pauley Perrette, Brian Dietzen

1/2 AD

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PHOTOGRAPHS (PEOPLE) BY GETTY IMAGES; PHOTOGRAPHS (FOOD) BY ABIMAGES

Pucker Up

SEEN | WHERE WE LIVE

Shining Stars

The Americana at Brand awarded its 2016 Spirit of American Youth Scholarships to Christin Hirn of Notre Dame High School and George Hou of Arcadia High School. Each student received a $10,000 scholarship. The scholarship honors seniors from the Valley who exhibit outstanding spirit, leadership, and social responsibility.

Distinctive Residential Settings | Chef-Prepared Dining and Bistro Premier Health and Wellness Programs | Award-Winning Memory Care Professionally Supervised Therapy and Rehabilitation Services BURBANK | ENCINO | RANCHO PALOS VERDES HOLLYWOOD HILLS | WESTWOOD | THOUSAND OAKS Rick J. Caruso, Christin Hirn and family

The Community Built for Life.® belmontvillage.com

© 2016 Belmont Village, L.P. | RCFE Lic 197608468, 197608466, 197608467, 198601646, 565801746, 197608291

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New on Campus

The Wesley School unveiled its new 5,500-square-foot Arts and Administration building with a ribbon cutting. The new structure, designed by Sherman Oaks-based architect, Jeffrey Kalban, includes several classrooms as well as a cutting-edge multimedia art studio.

L-R: a Wesley student, Jim Crandall, Adrin Nazarian, Kevin Plunkett, H. John Walter, III, Verena Denove, Paul Krekorian, Jeffrey Kalban

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8/8/16 4:12 PM

FIND US SOCIALLY /OurVenturaBlvd

@OurVenturaBlvd

/OurVenturaBlvd

/OurVenturaBlvd

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Scratch Restaurants was started when Chefs Phillip Frankland Lee and Margarita Kallas-Lee decided that they each wanted to put their personal spin on what a restaurant concept could be.

Although each chef’s concepts remain unique and independent of one another, the constant thread that ties all Scratch Restaurants together is the chefs’ dedication to the artisanal “from scratch” approach to hospitality.

DINE WITH US

16101 Ventura Blvd. 2nd Floor Encino Plaza, CA 91436

|

818.646.6085

|

scratchrestaurants.com

THE SAUCE Melt in Your Mouth

PHOTOGRAPHED BY TAMEKA JACOBS

It starts with a flavor-packed, creamy hummus, but meals at a new Mediterranean eatery in Sherman Oaks take diners to delightfully different places. For more, turn the page...

THE SAUCE

GOOD EATS Chef de cuisine Juan Carlos Carranza in Mizlala’s open kitchen.

Right: Chicken Tagine

Mediterranean Mecca A casual eatery debuts and earns rave reviews for combining old favorites with new preparations.

WRITTEN BY

LINDA GRASSO JACOBS

PHOTOGRAPHED BY TAMEKA

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O

ur search for the world’s best hummus has ended. The creamiest, most flavorful version of the chick pea-based appetizer—in this case served alongside a soft, sesame-studded, piping hot, house-baked laffa bread— is at the new Mediterranean eatery Mizlala in Sherman Oaks. It was so good that this writer pressed owner Danny Elmaleh for his secret. Is it the subtle drizzle of tahini and fresh lemon juice on top? Is there a secret ingredient blended in the dip? The owner, who was politely coy, would only say: “We keep the chick peas warm through the entire preparation process and we use a French press.” Not sure that will help me much in my homemade versions, but I’ll certainly be back to Mizlala for more.

The restaurant is located in the old Simon’s Café space, next to the always-bustling Itzakaya. Danny, Simon’s eldest son, was previously the executive chef of Cleo in Hollywood and also worked for the high-end Melisse in Santa Monica. The Valley resident says his dad retired and, with a distinct vision in mind, the timing seemed right to take over.

“My wife and I love to go to restaurants when we are in San Francisco. We thought we’d love to have a casual “foodie” restaurant like so many of the ones you see there, right here in Sherman Oaks. We wanted locals to be able to come frequently. Like it’s no big deal. That is why we don’t take reservations,” he explains.

We hit Mizlala “cold” (they didn’t know anyone in our party worked for a magazine) at 8:30 on a Saturday night. All the tables were taken. Danny’s wife, Justine, advised us that one would be clearing momentarily and indeed, less than five minutes later, we were seated in the prime, window “deuce.” Justine described the menu as “Moroccan tapas-style plates that are small and medium-sized.”

Our meal was excellent from the get-go. First—complimentary, crisp, perfectly tart pickled veggies (Dare I say even better than my Armenian grandmother’s torschi?) served with two pestos. Next came a seasonal special: agnolotti filled with

ourventurablvd.com

THE SAUCE

summer corn, drizzled with a balsamic reduction. The sweetness of the corn pleasantly dominated the pasta pocket. The slow-cooked lamb tagine, one of Simon’s recipes that Danny kept on the menu, was also delicious. It arrived in a flavorful broth that was dotted with raisins and apricots. “We use the shoulder, which has more tendon in it. When slow-cooked it becomes really tender,” says Danny.

Mizlala’s menu takes a contemporary twist with several entrees. One is the smoked paprika-infused boneless Moroccan fried chicken served with harissa aioli and apricot mustard dipping sauces. Other modern takes come from pasta dishes: pappardelle with oxtail, roasted bone marrow and gremolata, and farmer’s cheese ravioli with brown butter and slow-cooked, poached egg.

The eatery features an open kitchen with counter seats, as well as standard tables. A 14% tip is automatically added to each bill. Throughout our entire meal, Danny could be seen surveying each table—looking for any imperfections and checking with guests. It was the kind of attentive service one rarely experiences in restaurants these days. We inquired about leaving our standard 20% tip and were told it wasn’t necessary.

We did it anyway.  4515 Sepulveda Blvd., Sherman Oaks 818-783-6698 Open for dinner every evening except Monday

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Organic Coffee & Tea

Farm Fresh Salads

In House Desserts

Open Mon-Sat 7am-7pm Sun 8am-6pm

Just for Kids

Pressed Samies Smoothies & Juice

3413 W Magnolia Blvd.

Burbank, CA

Small Bites

Local Pastries

Breakfast Specials

Also be sure to check out our neighbor:

mall event, large event or no even The craving is all you need!

Small event, large event or no event, the craving is all you need!

—Cheryl Canter, CEO

C AT E R I N G . C A F E . P R I VAT E D I N N E R S CATERING  CAFE  PRIVATE DINING 14543 erwin street van nuys, CA 91411 14543 erwin street van nuys, CA 91411 818.787.0601 bakeditmyself@sbcglobal.net www.bakeditmyself.com 818.787.0601

bakeditmyself@sbcglobal.net

www.bakeditmyself.com

THE SAUCE

SALSA & BEER – WINNER! Regardless of the time of day, you’ll see crowds at this eatery. Their Spicy Green Burrito ($9), packed WINNE R! with chicken, cheese, pico de gallo and topped with a vibrant homemade sauce, more cheese and sour cream, is a crowd-pleaser.

6740 White Oak Ave., Lake Balboa DC: Wow! Perfectly moist and nicely seasoned. Every bite is creamy!

BH: Good presentation. I couldn’t wait to dive into it!

Great mix of flavors and love the sauce.

CK: Spicy and delicious—and enough for two!

BL: The perfect amount of sauce; wish it had a bit more chicken in it, though.

Score: 8.5

Best Burrito The Valley’s most raved about burritos are put to the ultimate test.

W

e took four of the tastiest tortilla-wrapped concoctions and put them in front of a group of always-ravenous Valley boys. The guys met while attending Notre Dame High School. Now in college, they still enjoy fanning the flames of their friendship over just about any kind of burrito. The fierce competition ended in a tie with accolades going to both Salsa & Beer and Las Fuentes.

LAS FUENTES – WINNER! The Burrito Asada Gringo Style (“wet”), at $9.50, WINN blew away our panel. After tasting all the burritos ER! (when you’d think they’d be full), the boys actually asked if there was any more of this one.

18415 Vanowen Street, Reseda DC: Tasty meat and cheese combo; wish it had more spice, though.

BH: I love how chewy the meat is. Great flavor and presentation. My mouth started watering as soon as I saw it!

CK: Meat could have been more tender. But messy and cheesy— the way I like it!

BL: Well put together, tasty meat and lots of flavor. Fantastic.

Score: 8.5

CACTUS TAQUERIA We opted for the highly-touted Burrito al Pastor served “dry” (rumored to be juicy enough to forgo sauce) for $8.

4378 Woodman Ave., Sherman Oaks DC: The pork meat was flavorful but overall this burrito is a little bland.

BH: Juicy meat. Wish there was a bit less red sauce inside the burrito. It takes away from the flavor.

CK: The pastor is fantastic. Average looking overall.

BL: Meat is amazing. Too much cilantro though for my taste.

Score: 7

THE JUDGES:

Charley Koones, Univ. of Colorado; Devon Cadiz, Univ. of Arizona; Bryce Hammond, Univ. of Colorado; Brody Lluis, Univ. of Arizona

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SOL Y LUNA The Burrito de Camaron ($11.25) was our choice here. It is stuffed with grilled shrimp, pico de gallo, avocado, cheese and topped with Ranchera sauce and melted cheese.

19601 Ventura Blvd., Tarzana DC: Moist and doughy. Spicy sauce on top of this makes it.

BH: Nice, soft, doughy tortilla but the shrimp flavor is overpowering. I can’t taste any Mexican spices. Why have a burrito?

CK: I don’t love it. Only order if you love shrimp.

BL: Too many beans and the beans were overcooked. It underwhelms me in terms of size.

Score: 6.8

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CRAFT BEER HARVEST “PLACE WHERE EVERYBODY KNOWS YOUR NAME” 4524 Saugus Avenue, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403 818-990-2583 | bluedogbeertavern.com

BEST HAPPY HOUR IN THE VALLEY M-F from 3PM - 6PM NOW SERVING WEEKEND BRUNCH!

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THE SAUCE

SMOKED SWEET POTATO & BOURBON VEGAN CHILI Makes approximately 2½ quarts Olive oil 2 medium onions, diced small 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 cup bourbon 1 box or can of diced San Marzano tomatoes 2 medium Japanese sweet potatoes, smoked and chopped bite-size (if you don’t have a smoker, roast and add smoked paprika) 3 cups pinto beans precooked (recipe below) 3 cups bean pot broth 2 tablespoons sorghum 1 tablespoon chili powder 2 teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon oregano, dry 1 tablespoon fermented hot sauce (recipe below) Corn chips, cilantro, cheddar sauce (recipe below) for garnish

Cool Chili

A vegan version of chili so good you won’t miss the meat PHOTOGRAPH BY SHANE

O’DONNELL

R

oy Elam grew up just outside of Saint Louis. Homecooked meals, summers on his grandma’s farm and later years spent living just outside of Portland, Oregon all shaped his culinary vision.

As the former honcho of SunCafe in Studio City and now as a chef at Plant Food + Wine in Venice, it is no surprise Roy won the annual vegan chili cook-off—a competition of some of the city’s most revered plant-based chefs—at Tony’s Darts Away in Burbank.

He says what distinguishes his Sweet Potato and Bourbon Vegan Chili recipe is the layering of all the flavors—“the sweetness of the corn in the bourbon, the smokiness of the sweet potatoes, the seasoning of the beans and the subtle sweetness of the sorghum,” Roy explains.

The recipe calls for smoked Japanese sweet potatoes, which have a dark red skin and light yellow flesh. “Smoked sweet potatoes are one of my favorite ingredients. Japanese ones work the best. They are smoked slowly with applewood for about an hour. We have been using them a bunch at Plant Food + Wine. Currently they are in our Smoked Sweet Potato Tamale and Florentine,” says Roy. The recipe also has home-cooked pinto beans and utilizes the resulting broth. “You could use canned beans but cooking them yourself and seasoning the broth is definitely the way to go. Using the bean broth instead of water or stock gives you a full-bean flavor and enhances the finished product.” 

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Heat a stockpot over medium high heat, then sauté onions in olive oil until translucent. Add garlic and sauté for about a minute. Add bourbon and allow it to reduce by heating for 2-3 minutes. Add tomatoes, sweet potatoes, beans, bean broth, sorghum, chili powder, salt, cumin, oregano and hot sauce. Cover the pot (lid slightly off ) and simmer over medium-low heat for 1 hour.

Pinto Beans Dry pinto beans (3 cups) 2 quarts water 12 sprigs thyme 1 onion, sliced in half and peeled 2 chipotle peppers 3 bay leaves Place ingredients in stockpot and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and cook for 1½ hours, checking the firmness of the beans along the way. Season with salt. Save broth.

Fermented Hot Sauce 3 Fresno peppers, de-stemmed 3 tablespoons kosher salt 2 cups white vinegar Pulse the peppers. Add the kosher salt. Transfer the mixture into a fermenting jar. Allow it to sit at room temperature for 3-7 days (or as long as a month). Blend that mixture with 2 cups of white vinegar and you have amazing hot sauce! If you don’t want to make your own fermented sauce, buy one with the least ingredients possible.

Cheddar Sauce 3 cups cashews 2½ cups water ¼ cup grapeseed oil ¼ cup apple cider vinegar 5 tablespoons nutritional yeast 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 tablespoon + 1½ teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon maple syrup Blend all ingredients until smooth.

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Setting

a New Mood From place settings to pies, give this year’s Thanksgiving table a glitzy west coast makeover with ideas and tips from a floral artist, a food stylist/chef and some urban farmers.

STYLED & PHOTOGRAPHED BY KARA

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MICKELSON

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Meet the Gourds There are more than several hundred recognized members of the Cucurbitaceae family, also referred to as gourds and squash. Cucurbitaceae are a fruit even though they’re often used as a “culinary vegetable”.

The most basic and simple breakdown of the gourd family is winter or summer and edible or inedible. The most well-known members of the family are squash and gourds (sometimes referred to interchangeably), muskmelons, watermelons, cucumbers, and pumpkins.

Summer squash are usually tender with a thin, edible skin and a shorter growing period and shelf life than their winter cousins. Popular varieties include zucchini and yellow crookneck squash.

Winter squash mostly have a thick and often inedible rind (unless pickled) and a longer growing period and shelf life. Familiar types are butternut, acorn, spaghetti, and a range of edible and decorative pumpkin.

Some squash, what we typically think of as gourds, are entirely ornamental and some are only edible when immature. Bottle gourds or calabash, when fully mature, have extremely hard exteriors.

The colorfully, shiny, warty type of gourds that make a showing during fall are also of the ornamental variety. Pumpkins tend to be both ornamental and edible, although most pumpkin pie mix is not of the typical jack-o’-lantern variety but rather a mix of winter squash.

Here are some favorites of urban farmers Andy Vaughan and Richard Untal who provided the gourds for our photo (more at califarmer.com).

WINTER SQUASH Barbara Butternut is an absolute favorite.

The seed cavity is smaller than most butternut squashes, with a firm, bright, buttery flesh. The skin has an unusual green stripe, making it more attractive and a bit like a zucchini.

Spaghetti Squash now has a smaller “single serving size” variety that is perfect as a preportioned side dish.

Uchiki Kuri, Blue Kuri a Japanese variety of squashes, and several Hubbard varieties are longlasting and great for pies, baking and soup.

Fairytale and Cinderella pumpkins are not only stunning when used as decor, they’re also delicious baked.

KARA’S TIPS When it comes to cooking and preparing squash, don’t forget the tender tips of the vines; usually 5 to 6 inches of many squash are edible as well as the flower, and the seeds can be roasted.

Larger squash are perfect for stuffing and make great serving bowls for displaying hot or cold food.

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Table Swag A mixture of metallic and blue accents provides a refreshing color palette.

Velvet chartreuse mini pumpkins offer added interest and serve as a possible guest gift.

Jenny Barker, of Magical Blooms, created the elegant arrangement using Dahlias, Hops, Clematis Pods, Astrantia, Roses, Solidago, Plumosus, Spider Amaranthus, Hydrangea, Dusty Miller, Alpine Thistle and Kermit Fiji Mums.

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Setting a New Mood

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Setting a New Mood

Pie on the Fly A beautiful pie can be intimidating and time-consuming. Here Kara shares one of her all-time favorite recipes as well as some tips for creating a dazzling, camera-ready pie.

Save time by buying premade pie crust dough by Pillsbury. Typically in the refrigerated section, the dough comes in two log-shaped rolls. One roll can be used for the bottom and the other for showstopping cutouts.

KARA’S TIPS • Keep dough chilled—it is easier to work with.

• Bake pies from frozen if time allows. It takes a little longer (to freeze and to bake) but the crust will hold its shape better.

• Add a course sugar like turbinado to hide imperfections and create sparkle.

• Let a hot pie rest before cutting.

• Add crème fraiche, buttermilk, vanilla seeds or a dash of whiskey to whipped cream.

TIPSY CALVADOS APPLE PIE Ingredients 4 pounds assorted apples—peeled, cored and diced 4 tablespoons unsalted butter 4 tablespoons granulated or coarse brown sugar (turbinado) ¼ teaspoon cinnamon ¼ teaspoon nutmeg ¼ teaspoon allspice ¼ teaspoon ginger 1/8 teaspoon cardamom 1/8 teaspoon clove 1/8 teaspoon white pepper ¼ cup of Calvados apple brandy, or any brandy ¼ cup of all-purpose flour 1 egg yolk with 1 teaspoon water or cream for “egg wash” to secure decorative embellishments 1 package Pillsbury pie dough (softened per instuctions) Pie Filling Sauté apples in butter. Add sugar and spices and cook until apples begin to caramelize on the exterior, yet retain a semi-firm texture.

Add brandy and sauté until most of the liquid is absorbed. Reserve and cool.

Unroll one dough roll into pie pan. Trim just over the pan edge (1/8 inch) to allow for shrinkage during baking.

Add a dusting of flour and then cooled, cooked apples. Put in refrigerator or freezer to chill.

Create Pie Top Take second log of dough, roll it out flat to 1/8 inch thickness. Make cutouts with a fall theme—leaves, apples, acorns, forest animals, etc.

With leftover dough from cutouts, roll out flat and cut into strips (thin for braids or decorative twists, medium or large for lattice; also include strips of dough to anchor cutouts).

Remove cooled pie from refrigerator or freezer. Sprinkle top of apples with flour so the moisture from the fruit does not soften the cutouts.

Assemble the dough embellishments on top.

Secure decorative pieces with egg wash. Chill pie in freezer for 30 minutes or overnight.

Bake Remove and brush with egg wash over the entire top of pie and sprinkle with turbinado sugar.

Bake on a cookie sheet in a preheated 400° oven for 30 minutes.

Reduce temp to 325° and continue to cook another 20 to 35 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is hot.

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Profiles in Style In this issue we put the world of fashion— everything from cutting-edge designers to reemerging trends—in the spotlight.

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Profiles in Style

I

Love

Woo

Cali-born designer Staci Woo and her team offer stylish garb and artistic inspiration.

WRITTEN BY AMBER

KLINCK

PHOTOGRAPHED BY LAUREN

PRESSEY

After graduating from UC Santa Barbara, California native Staci Woo kept moving south until she landed in sunny LA. The move eventually led to Staci’s creation, along with her husband, Mike Badt, of Woo: a lifestyle brand of beachy-chic loungewear and accessories for men, women and kids.

“We cater to the lover of style who doesn’t want to look ‘styled,’” Staci explains. What began as a cool but small spot on Venice’s Main Street has evolved into Woo’s new locale in downtown LA’s Arts District.

“We’ve been in the Arts District for 10 years,” Staci says.

“When we outgrew [the Venice] space, we knew it was inevitable that we would have to move downtown. It was a much easier transition after finding this little gem—it had a cool neighborhood feeling, open spaces, parking and a great community.”

With a design career that began in her early 20s, Staci attributes the origin and growth of Woo to a series of “small successes” and some good advice from a worthy mentor. “I worked as Adriano Goldschmied’s assistant for a denim and garment dye clothing line,” she says.

“Adriano would take me shopping and tell me to buy vintage denim, Hawaiian shirts and kimonos. [He] gave me the confidence to make the same styles in repurposed fabrics. So I did what he said, and Woo was born.”

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Profiles in Style

Today Woo’s customers include the “18-year-old California girl; the 35-year-old well-traveled professional; and the 65-yearold chic grandmother,” Staci notes. Woo’s lines include Little Woo, Underwoo, Sand & Sea Club’s resort and beachwear and the new fleece line, Uplifters.

But what really put Woo “on the map,” Staci explains, were the lace and cotton camisoles they offered. “To this day women will tell me they still have one in their drawer 15 years later,” she says. “The style has varied throughout the years, but it set the tone for the rest of the line.”

As for the line as a whole, “We have pockets in every style possible,” Staci says. “We take inspiration from the styles we love and design them in fabrics we really love. We aren’t chasing trends, but we design each season based on what [people] want to wear now.”

Behind the scenes, making it all come to life is Staci and Mike’s tried-and-true team. “We are lucky enough to have had the same sample sewer for 10 years,” Staci shares. “We’ve also had our sample cutter/finisher for 10 years. I am so proud of our history together.”

Mike handles the production and business end of things, with Staci in charge of design and marketing. Staci and her team at Woo share their art and passion with young creators.

The House of Woo offers a Little Woo Custom Design Workshop where kids ages 4 through 12 can design their own clothes.

“It started as an event I hosted for our elementary school auction,” Staci says. “I thought it would be great for the kids to choose a style and customize it using patterns, fabrics and trims we had in our archives. [The kids] sketch it out, swatch their fabrics and customize the details.” Staci and her team then get to work cutting and sewing to the kids’ specifications for a finished design in less than two weeks.

Also in the works is a Kickstarter campaign to raise enough money to transform Woo’s warehouse space into a workshop for local artists looking to “build their craft and at the same time have a forum to sell at retail,” Staci explains. By offering outlets that inspire creativity—not just in other creatives but in children as well—Staci and her team are doing more than selling a brand. They are encouraging an artistic lifestyle. 

“We cater to the lover of style who doesn’t want to look ‘styled.” ourventurablvd.com

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Profiles in Style

Design in Hi-Def

A duo of entrepreneurs is putting the tech in textiles.

WRITTEN BY DARREN

ELMS

PHOTOGRAPHED BY KREMER

JOHNSON

In the era of Instagram and Snapchat, photos have become more than just quick memories; for many, they function as a huge part of our identities. Food, landscapes, fashion, selfies … no matter the subject, our social feed chronicles the journey with every snap and spreads the message across our chosen channels.

Think about how much time you put into finding the perfect filter or considering the ideal crop. Too bright?

Not enough saturation? Maybe a blue tint will help. Even with little training or experience, we test the limits of our artistry with each post.

Sharing digital images on our smartphones may be rudimentary at this stage of the game, but wearing them proudly on a garment takes sharing into new territory.

That’s where local fashion designer Paul Goncalves saw an opening—one where savvy social media users can create their own fashion.

Mod Thread is a new customization and collaboration platform that empowers users and brands to unleash their creativity. With a mobile app, users can create custom, all-over designs with a variety of cut-and-sew fashionable products. It’s as easy as uploading designs and photos from your phone’s photo album or another app like Instagram.

Users can also turn digitally-rendered prints and patterns into anything from a simple cotton tank to leggings.

Paul founded the company last year and brought on partner Johann Conforme shortly after. “Johann and I previously worked together at Saatchi & Saatchi and more recently Phenomenon, an ideation brand consultancy firm,” says Paul, who also launched menswear line Bespoken in New York and kids sportswear line Heroes & Hooligans here in the South Bay. In the spirit of keeping it local, everything at Mod Thread is produced and sourced in Southern California. “We also work off an on-demand model, which means that an item only gets produced when a customer actually purchases it—which does away with excessive inventory and wastage,” says Paul. “All orders are fulfilled within three days.”

Ready to put your mark on the fashion world? Check out Mod Thread at the Apple App Store or Google Play. 

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Paul and Johann, the duo behind the new platform Mod Thread.

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Profiles in Style

WorldlyJoys Clothing and jewelry designer Chan Luu opens her first flagship lifestyle boutique in Southern California.

WRITTEN BY JENNIE

NUNN

Chan Luu, founder of an eponymous LA–based lifestyle brand that bears her name, attributes much of her successful career to three key trends: a skinny scarf, a hand-painted seashell necklace and a multitude of stone adorned, leather wrap bracelets. “The company is where it is today because of those three trends,” says the clothing and jewelry designer who was born and raised in South Vietnam.

Launching her company in 1996, today Chan’s designs also include clothing like hand-embroidered skirts as well as men’s jewelry.

“I love creating beautiful products that are inspired by my experiences,” adds Chan, who lives in Pacific Palisades. “There are a lot of things that influence my designs: nature, diverse cultures, ancient crafts and traveling the world.”

This year Chan opened her first U.S. lifestyle boutique in Santa Monica and she debuted CL Lifestyle—a collection of refined home-wares including handloomed cotton Turkish beach blankets and made-to-order woven reed tote bags adorned with shells, tassels and brightly-hued pom-poms. 

Labradorite choker on dark brown leather, $145 (also available in moonstone and hypersthene) White pearl wire thread thru earrings, $80 (worn by Michelle Obama) Silver bead wrap bracelet on natural brown leather, $295 (also available in gunmetal)

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strike a Pose From velvet to faux fur, luxurious textures in jewel tones take center stage this season—coupled with some revivals from the 90s. Bows, chokers and embellishments—ranging from embroidery to brocade—are all part of this dramatic, retro look that returns with a new sense of refinement.

STYLED BY

TANYA MONAGHAN | PHOTOGRAPHED BY ANNIE DEPTULA KARL | MODELED BY TAYLER ROSE, REPRESENTED BY VISION LA

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY JENNY

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FLIRTY FLORALS Romantic pussy bow dress by Boemo, $171, revolve.com; thigh-high suede boots

by Dolce Vita, $200, Bloomingdale’s at Westfield Fashion Square in Sherman Oaks; bracelet by Liquid Metal, $255, Urban Clothes Horse in Redondo Beach. ourventurablvd.com

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Feature Hed

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➾

GOLDEN GIRL Embroidered bomber jacket

by Capulet, $249, lyst.com; knit bodysuit with gold zipper, $36, sugarcloth.com; gold pants, $100, ripleyraderstyle.com; gold geometric dangle earrings, $65, Details in Hermosa Beach; studded wrap bracelet, $40, ANGL at Westfield Fashion Square; black cuff bracelet by She. Rise, $220, Gum Tree in Hermosa Beach; high-top sneakers by Golden Goose, $446, polyvore.com.

➾

POETRY IN MOTION White silk ruffled top, $446, and black pinstriped pant, $630; both by Nili Lotan at Wright’s in Manhattan Beach; cropped vest, $40; ANGL at Westfield Fashion Square; gold ring by Gorjana, $53 and leather wrap choker by Deborah Brewer, $48; both at Beach & Beverly in Hermosa Beach; leather pumps by Shutz, $235, polyvore.com.

BARE BASICS Black lace choker, $12 and velvet ruffled off-the-shoulder bodysuit, $42; both available at sugarcloth.com; plaid overalls

by Capulet, $192, polyvore.com; black leather cuff by Made in the Deep South, $210, Urban Clothes Horse; black leather backpack, $50 and boots, $40; both available at ANGL

GOING BO-HO Slip grunge dress by R13, $696 and leather visor by Right Tribe, $88; both available at Wright’s. Ribbed, cut-out bodysuit, $50, sugarcloth. com; buckle bootie by Dolce Vita, $170, Bloomingdale’s; cross body bag by Head Regal, $195, BLVD; wrap bracelets by She.Rise, $50 each, Gum Tree.

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The first flip An innovative teaching technique called The Flipped Classroom is inspiring local educators to reach students in new and sometimes more effective ways.

WRITTEN BY SUSAN

SPILLMAN GEORGIADES

PHOTOGRAPHED BY CHRISTINE ourventurablvd.com

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The First Flip

T

he flipped classroom first gained national notice in 2007 when Colorado high school teachers Jonathan Bergmann and Aaron Sams started videotaping their chemistry class lectures and posting them online for absent students. In 2012 the pair launched the Flipped Learning Network (flippedlearning.org), a nonprofit that offers tools and an online community to educators using or interested in flipping.

A sign on the wall of Joanne Ryan’s classroom at The Buckley School in Sherman Oaks warns: “There’s no crying in calculus.”

Tears may be prohibited, but chattering among students is not only allowed, it’s encouraged. Throughout Ryan’s 75-minute AP calculus class, students actively converse with one another as they work in pairs to figure out the length of an arch. Meanwhile Ryan, who chairs Buckley’s math depart-

ment, walks up and down the rows of desks offering help.

As for the lecture where Ryan explains exactly how one goes about calculating the length of an arch? The group of 24 students, which includes sophomores, juniors and seniors, had watched it beforehand at home on their laptops.

Welcome to “the flipped classroom,” a relatively new and innovative teaching method that’s caught fire in recent years. Educators are using it now in middle and high schools, as well as colleges, universities and even medical schools across the country, including here in the San Fernando Valley.

class time, the instructor and peers are available to lend support for solving problems that would traditionally be given as homework.

Class time is also used for discussing concepts in depth and group projects.

Flipping, also called inverting, is especially popular in math and science classes, subjects

ABC’S OF FLIPPING

The premise is quite simple and in some ways a reverse of the way most of us were taught.

Students are introduced to new material in bite-size video clips at home. During

“The power in teaching is when you have time to mentor and coach. I now have more time to do that. I feel like I now get to know the students and their strengths and weaknesses better.”

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The First Flip

in which homework can often be frustrating, but it’s also being used to teach foreign language, history, English and other courses.

Proponents say the benefits are multipronged. “A lot of students don’t take good notes in class, then they go home and have to do 40 problems and don’t know how,” explains Andre Wiseman, who’s been flipping his geometry class at Campbell Hall School in Studio City for the past five years.

A former movie producer for whom making videos came naturally, Wiseman honed his flipped approach teaching algebra and geometry at the Oakwood School, also in Studio City.

With the flipped model, “The majority of the work is done in class where I’m there and students’ peers are there to help,” the geometry teacher adds. “Sometimes their peers explain things in a better way that makes the light bulb go off.”

Not only that, “Working with partners keeps me more focused in class,” says Caroline Bloch, a junior in Ryan’s AP calculus course.

Another major advantage, says Ryan, “At home students can learn the material at their own pace. They can go back and rewind. Kids don’t all learn at the same rate. In a class lecture you may not get something, but before you can ask a question the teacher has already moved on to three new concepts.”

An energetic woman with a fast-paced teaching style, Ryan discovered the flipped concept at a number of conferences and introduced it at Buckley with a single AP calculus class in 2014. It was such a hit that the approach is now used at the school to teach AP statistics, regular calculus, geometry, algebra and life science.

THE MECHANICS IN MOTION

Flipping is being embraced by teachers at schools with diverse populations, ranging from Westmark School in Encino for students with learning differences to Ingenium Charter Middle School in Winnetka, which serves low-income, minority students. It’s also used at several independent collegeprep schools.

For Westmark students, home video lectures offer an effective multi-modal opportunity to help those with memory issues better retain information because the material can be paired with music, visual imagery and humor, according to upper school history teacher Jeffrey Jiminez.

Take for example a recent video lesson Jiminez posted on “Substitutes and Complementary Goods,” for students in his economics class. In it Jiminez visits a MAC cosmetic

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store in the mall and a Target store, comparing the price of comparable lipsticks.

Flipping is just “another tool in the tool box,” he explains. “We seek to make the curriculum accessible. Forcing a student to read something they won’t remember when they’re done isn’t helpful.”

At the Ingenium Charter Middle School, flipping is also viewed as one of many innovative tools used to make learning more engaging and effective, according to David P. Langford, president/superintendent of Ingenium, which operates four charter schools in Southern California.

The 3-year-old charter is about to embark on its own version of the pedagogy. Students who are ready to move on and explore a new concept, whether in an art class or English class, arrange a workshop with their teacher.

Anyone can join the workshop, but even those who don’t can get the lesson later, when they’re ready. One student is assigned to video the instruction, which the teacher then posts online. That way students can access it at a later time, including those who want reinforcement.

“It provides options as to how a student wants to go about learning,” explains Langford. “Some need a lot more repetition, which in real time can be frustrating to other students.”

KEYS TO SUCCESS

Valley teachers concur that the key to an effective video lecture is keeping it short, between seven and 15 minutes per concept.

Most teachers also say they continue to tweak their videos year to year. Ryan, for example, added a couple of practice problems at the end of each video lecture when a student suggested it would be helpful to have some immediate practice utilizing what she’d just learned. Some, such as Jiminez, also use third party-produced videos to supplement their original fare. Students as a whole, they add, love the new approach.

“In the beginning I personally didn’t like it because I usually ask questions in class,” says Buckley senior Brittany Nazar. “After I got the hang of it though, I thought it was more useful because studying for tests, I could rewatch and relearn the lesson or ask a question during the teachers’ office hours.”

Some parents are initially skeptical too.

“Some have said, ‘Why am I paying all this money if my child is watching a video?’” admits Campbell Hall’s Wiseman. “But I say, ‘It’s a video made by me. It’s exactly what I would have been doing in class.’ Also, when the students come in after watching the video, I may go through the slides of the

video with them. I offer guided note-taking and offer fill-in-the-blank notes and exercises.”

What matters most of course, is how teachers use class time. “There’s so much more to being a high-quality teacher than being a good lecturer,” says Ramit Varma, cofounder of Revolution Prep, a leading tutoring firm that also produces instructional videos used in a number of public charter schools throughout the city. “These tools are designed to take away that lowervalue work that teachers do.”

Kelley Skahan who flips her Algebra 1 class at Viewpoint School in Calabasas agrees. “The power in teaching is when you have time to mentor and coach. I now have more time to do that. I feel like I now get to know the students and their strengths and weaknesses better.”

As for whether the flipped classroom improves test scores, most detailed research has been conducted at the college level.

Despite results of a four-year research pilot at Harvey Mudd College in Claremont that reported no difference, the majority of research suggests that it does help. Studies at San Jose State University, the University of Washington and Villanova in Pennsylvania all report remarkable improvement.

Ryan hasn’t measured test scores, but says without hesitation, “There’s definitely been improvement in the area of enjoyment, a feel for the material and class time passing faster.” 

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great THE

’SCAPE

A Sherman Oaks family with a handsome colonial doubles curb appeal and living space without adding a single square foot—thanks to a talented landscape designer.

WRITTEN BY SUSAN

SPILLMAN O’DONNELL

PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE

f you commute in Sherman Oaks south of Ventura Blvd., chances are you’ve admired the movie-perfect colonial situated on a prominent corner lot along Valley Vista Blvd.

In fact, that’s exactly how the Neely family discovered this 6,355-square-foot dream house, while it was still under construction as a “spec” home in 2008.

Now eight years later, they’re loving their abode that much more, due to a dramatic makeover of the landscape. Nearly every inch of outdoor space has been overhauled. The result is not only visually stunning—it is drought-tolerant and very low maintenance. Thanks to a wellconceived plan by landscape designer Zabra Yee, the reconfigured front, side and backyards have also doubled the home’s livable space.

The original grounds consisted of a sprawling, wrap-around lawn dotted with flagstone walkways and patios, all surrounded by a white picket fence. “We thought it was fine at first,” says Beth Neely, “but we entertain a lot and people kept tripping on the flagstone.”

That, plus sky-high water bills, motivated Beth and husband, Blake, a TV and film composer, to enlist Zabra, who also happens to be a family friend, for a total revamp earlier this year.

“The neighbors had started complaining when they saw our sprinklers and I was really starting to feel bad about it. I felt like we were using more than our fair share,” Beth says.

Zabra agreed eliminating the flagstone was the place to start. In addition to the tripping hazard, it “didn’t go with the architecture,” she says.

The designer swapped out every last piece for a more even-toned, slate-colored, blue stone. The grass was replaced by unbelievably realisticlooking artificial turf and a graceful combination of drought-tolerant plants. White flowering gardenias and heliotropes, with their purple blossoms and velvety, dark leaves were added for fragrance. Meyer lemon, lime and mandarin orange trees were also planted, along with a peach tree (a nod to the Neely’s Texas roots).

The property’s original mature roses—in a myriad of colors—were transplanted throughout, and a water-efficient, underground drip system was installed for irrigation. Instead of the white

The Great ‘Scape

pickets, a custom, black metal and concrete fence now encircles the home.

The front yard boasts three striking focal points. A formal yet charming, gated courtyard was created because Zabra noticed when Beth walked out past the front door to greet and say goodbye to party guests, she always ended up standing in the grass.

The second focal point is a 25-foot-diameter circle of synthetic turf, conceived as an inside joke and tribute to Blake’s love of traffic roundabouts, popular in Austin, Texas, where the couple once lived. At Christmastime, it also provides the perfect stage for the couple’s outdoor

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holiday display.

The final touch was a stunning and distinctly modern, s-shaped metal fountain that Zabra designed for the far north edge of the angled front yard. This rectangular space—lined on two sides by individually-lit cercis trees—has the sophisticated vibe of a museum garden.

Beth uses the area to host a weekly exercise class with friends.

The renovated backyard is an equal combination of beauty and function. It was originally made up of a small flagstone patio, lawn, pool and cabana that was “always a muddy mess,” according to Beth.

It now features a fabulous outdoor kitchen complete with sink, wine fridge and ice maker, which along with a large dining table, is housed under a sloped, rectangular, sunbrellacovered canopy, inspired by the architecture of a French train station. Sleek, narrow (barely noticeable) outdoor heaters are discreetly tucked in the canopy.

Parties, which have included three wedding receptions, a lobster bake and a neighborhood get-together for 200, usually begin with drinks at the outdoor kitchen counter. Guests often move to the dining area and then to the fire pit for after-dinner drinks.

ourventurablvd.com

The Great ‘Scape COLONIAL TIMES The home’s interiors are bathed in neutrals with an occasional pop of color—like the eyecatching chartreuse pillows on the living room sofas.

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WALK THIS WAY “I used all the plant textures to soften. The house is classic. The idea was to make the entrance feel more approachable and less stuffy,” says landscape designer Zabra Yee. Upper left: Zabra and her coworkers, Fermin Ruelas and Maria Perez, meet in the backyard with Blake and Beth Neely.

Zabra Yee

The main house was designed by Studio City-based architect Jon Brouse of Jon Brouse AIA & Associates. “It’s funny because the Neely home really put me and my career as an architect on the map,” laughs Jon. “It is on such a prominent corner and with so much curb appeal, I just kept getting calls about it.”

Brook Giannetti of Giannetti Home in Brentwood handled interiors. The structure features four bedrooms, an open floor plan and walnut floors. There’s also a guesthouse over the three-car garage that’s been converted into a music studio.

Brook’s signature “patina” style creates ambiance and warmth throughout the home. French antique doors are propped against the walls, as art, in the entry area and dining room.

But the room that’ll truly make you want to move in, is the master suite. Bathed in lush natural linens and cotton fabrics of white and cream tones, it features a lovely sitting area with a fireplace and built-in bookshelves. A private balcony overlooks the newly minted, resort-like backyard.

“It’s my favorite room in the house,” admits Beth. “It’s an amazing place to retreat to. I just love curling up with a book by the fireplace.” 

1

2

NURSERY LIST Landscape designer Zabra Yee on some of her drought-tolerant selections.

3

4

1. OLEA EUROPAEA ‘LITTLE OLLIE’ Durable and needs very little maintenance, while providing consistent color, a lovely, fluffy texture and a carefree vibe.

2. PITTOSPORUM ‘GOLF BALL’ It can be sheared to have a formal appearance or left alone with its natural rounded shape (as we’re

doing at the Neely’s), making it easier to manage than Boxwood.

3. MYRTUS COMMUNIS COMPACTA The quintessential, sheared hedge plant, but in this garden we’re letting them grow a bit wild to showcase their white flowers.

4. LOROPETALUM A.k.a the Chinese fringe flower, this shrub has a dark purple hue that adds nice contrast and a showy pink flower.

A la

Carte

A writer eats her way through France’s Michelin-star restaurants and gets a snapshot of regional cuisine culture.

WRITTEN BY SHANNON

SHARPE

I

landed in Paris the afternoon of my birthday. My red-eye flight had been delayed by four hours, and by the time I arrived I felt grubby, tired and—after picking over a terrible breakfast on the plane—incredibly hungry. Thankfully my sister Lisa, who had arrived that morning, knows me well and had already gone out and purchased an array of French cheese, bread and fruit. It was the perfect beginning to our weeklong French culinary adventure—a trip that took us from Paris to Provence to Nice, sampling Michelin-star restaurants in each city.

We began that night with the tasting menu at Spring, a Michelinstar restaurant with Chicago-bred, Le Cordon Bleu-trained executive chef Daniel Rose at the helm. Spring is located in a 17th-century building on a side street in the 1st arrondissement.

The sign is so subtle one can walk by and not even see it, which we did—twice. Upon entering we were led down to a cavernous, dimly lit lower level that would’ve been the perfect setting for a romantic dinner. But alas, I was there with my sister.

We had a full view of the open kitchen, which provided a lively atmosphere balanced by quiet, respectful service in which the waiters spoke barely above a whisper—allowing us to focus on our food.

The seafood meal began with a creamy potato soup with saffron and mussels, followed by eggplant that was balanced with smoky bonito and briny bottarga. Pike was served with rich lobster, complemented by sweet peas.

The main course was incredibly tender pigeon with apricots and girolle mushrooms. The meal was topped off with three desserts: cherry clafouti, Greek yogurt sorbet, and a mixture of chocolate, caramel and almonds. It was a birthday dinner like nothing I’d ever had. 6 rue Bailleul in Paris, springparis.fr Several days later we left for Arles in Provence. Unfortunately our trip did not go as smoothly as we planned, and we missed our train.

We got on another, but by the time we arrived in Arles the rental car company had closed—meaning we had no means of getting to our planned dinner at La Chassagnette, which sits outside the city.

We quickly learned from the cab driver who picked us up at the station that it would be an absurdly expensive taxi ride to get out to the restaurant. But by some small twist of fate, as the driver pulled up in front of the apartment we’d rented, he saw Chef Armand Arnal himself about to get into a car. The driver jumped out and explained our situation, and Chef Armand smiled broadly and told us if we were willing to take a taxi one way, he would be sure to get us home.

Apologies in advance for the cliché, but eating at La Chassagnette is not just about the food; it’s about the experience. Chef Armand’s passion for local food has been with him since he was a small boy, when he spent his Saturdays with his great-grandmother as she sold produce at the local farmers market. So after a career evolution, it seems only fitting that he would come to reign over this restaurant nestled in the Provence countryside—complete with an abundant vegetable and flower garden.

When we arrived Chef Armand came out and discussed with everyone what they preferred: a focus on seafood, meat or both. Lisa and I both chose seafood. We were then taken into a screened-in garden where a three-legged cat wandered about visiting each table.

We began the seven-course meal with strawberry gazpacho. Cool and sweet, it tasted like summer. Poached prawns were served with green beans and a bouillabaisse broth. Carrots with gremolata accompanied braised sea bream. And the dessert was a cherry crumble.

After this leisurely dinner that went on for several hours, Armand drove us back to town and put up with me peppering him with questions from the backseat about his food, his inspirations and how he got to be where he was. “She’s a journalist,” my sister explained. Route du Sambuc in Arles, lachassagnette.com

PLATED PERFECTION Opposite page: Flaveur in Nice Above: Spring in Paris

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À la Carte

IN THE DETAILS La Chassagnette in Arles

The final stop on our culinary tour was Nice. Unlike in Paris and Arles, we had no plan for where we wanted to eat there. A little bit of last-minute research took us to Flaveur—a modern French restaurant owned by two brothers, Gaël Tourteaux and Mickaël Tourteaux.

Flaveur served the most artful meal either of us have ever eaten. Caviar was delicately served on a porcelain board. The seafood risotto was presented as a foamy masterpiece. Seared scallops and gyoza ravioli were topped with the petals of zucchini flowers. A textured assortment of chocolate—including chocolate ice cream and raw chocolate—was so lovely, we had to pause before destroying it. 25 Rue Gubernatis in Nice, flaveur.net Each of these restaurants came to define our experiences in the cities we visited: a tucked-away restaurant in Paris that feels like you’re in on a secret; a wild garden in the countryside; and an elegant meal in a seaside town that has served as an escape for the toast of Paris for decades past. Eating your way through the country provides a small glimpse into the lives of the French. 

“Each of these restaurants came to define our experiences in the cities we visited...”

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Standing with you in support of our community

The Wells Fargo Private Bank Encino office has a new look but our mission remains the same—we’re here to help you reach your financial goals. We can help you create a custom wealth plan, backed by the full capabilities of Wells Fargo, that will help you move forward confidently toward your vision of the future.

To start a new kind of conversation, contact our team or visit us: Wells Fargo Private Bank Encino (818) 380-6660 | 15760 Ventura Boulevard, Suite 1250 | Encino, CA 91436

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 non-bank 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. © 2016 Wells Fargo Bank N.A. Member FDIC. NMLSR ID 399801

Finance & Wealth Management Peace of mind. It’s something you can’t buy. But there are things you can do to help achieve it. One of them is to be smart with money. Whether your goal is to maximize returns or make an inheritance hassle-free for heirs, having a team of accomplished financial experts who can help craft a strategic plan, off-set risk—and deal with the challenges of today’s market—is essential. Read on to learn about some of our community’s most trusted professionals in the field of wealth management.

EDITED BY LAURA WATTS PHOTOGRAPHED BY TAMEKA JACOBS

95 LAUREL TERRACE FINANCE, LLC

Lysa Kristensen

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96 JDM FINANCIAL GROUP

Jeff Munjack

98 COMPASS FINANCIAL ADVISORS

Joni Deakins & Mark Deakins

S P E C I A L A DV E RT I S I N G S E CT I O N

Finance & Wealth Management

LAUREL TERRACE FINANCE, LLC Lysa Kristensen, CFA®, Owner Studio City LaurelTerraceFinance.com 310-486-1205

L

ysa Kristensen, CFA®, founded Laurel Terrace Finance, LLC in 2014 with the purpose of assisting individuals, couples and families organize and manage their personal financial affairs. She has worked in the financial industry for two decades and is a Chartered Financial Analyst®.

What is your primary objective with clients?

“Financial wellness is not determined by income alone.

I work with my clients on what I believe are the essential elements needed to establish, grow and preserve wealth. These include a balanced household budget, an emergency savings fund, a plan for investments and retirement, appropriate life insurance and an estate plan, if applicable.”

How do you differentiate yourself from others in the industry?

“Working as a fee-based advisor through my own firm allows me to put my clients’ needs first and foremost. I am able to create comprehensive solutions, rather than being limited to select financial products or services.

I also do not receive commissions or referral fees, so I have the freedom to place clients with trusted colleagues specialized in legal, tax or insurance, who provide an equivalent level of exceptional service.”

How would you describe your relationship with your clients?

“My clients range from young families in a period of change or who need to plan for long-term goals to executives approaching retirement with students heading off to college. We always begin with a conversation to outline their unique situation. We then work strategically—and according to an agreed upon plan—to meet the desired goals. Our work typically involves a series of meetings, but I am also able to address a single aspect of financial planning in a shorter time frame. Once our initial work is complete, I welcome the opportunity to be an ongoing resource as financial needs change and life events occur. We build lifelong family relationships.”

What is your best piece of financial advice given today’s economy?

“If you find yourself struggling with your finances, begin a conversation with a qualified professional. When my clients find themselves out of sync with their financial priorities, their personal relationships suffer, as well as their happiness and well-being.”

Disclaimer: Individuals should independently consider the appropriateness of all financial advice, having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs.

FAST FACT Lysa is an advocate for increased dialogue regarding financial wellness and is committed to seeing financial literacy taught in schools.

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FAST FACT Jeff is a Certified Financial Planner™ with a master’s degree in financial planning.

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Finance & Wealth Management

JDM FINANCIAL GROUP Jeff Munjack, CFP®, MSFS Owner/President Encino 310-479-4122 jdmfinance.com

S

ince 1999, financial planner and wealth manager Jeffrey Munjack has provided customized financial plans for clients—including investments, tax strategies, insurance and estate planning.

After several years at a global financial services firm, he founded JDM Financial Group in 2002 in order to serve clients outside the sales-driven culture of Wall Street.

It is unusual that you have a master’s degree in personal finance. Why should clients value that?

“By the nature of our work, financial planners must maintain expertise in multiple sub-specialties, weaving together tax, investments, insurance and estate planning into an optimal strategy for clients. To do this requires more intensive training than does the traditional financial services model geared toward selling a product or trading a stock. In order to be competent and stay cutting edge, a financial planner needs to continually focus on professional development.”

Why does someone even need a financial planner?

“Life is hectic. Few people have the time, desire and background to adequately address the complex financial questions a household faces. These questions entangle multiple areas of personal finance: tax, investments, estate planning, Making smart financial decisions requires collaboration among a team of professionals. A good financial planner not only brings planning expertise in all these areas but also leads this collaboration among experts. The results of this process can be dramatic improvement across the board.”

S P E C I A L A DV E RT I S I N G S E CT I O N

How does someone know they can trust a financial planner?

“The character of a professional is always the most important predictor of the quality and trustworthiness of professional advice. Know your advisor! Also important is to investigate the compensation structure of an advisory firm and to inquire whether the firm works exclusively as a fiduciary. If a firm is a fiduciary, an advisor’s recommendations must be guided solely by what is in the client’s best interest. If it does not operate as a fiduciary, an advisor may recommend products or strategies that are merely ‘suitable.’ Some financial professionals set themselves up as both, meaning a client may not know whether a given recommendation is sales-motivated or made in their best interest.

JDM operates exclusively as a fiduciary.”

Does JDM Financial Group specialize in any particular area of financial planning?

“Yes, we specialize in preparing our clients for retirement and guiding them through its various stages. For Baby Boomers this typically means working with them to refocus from raising children to preparing for retirement and planning their legacy. In more recent years many of our new clients have been forward-thinking Gen Xers and Millennials who have indicated that making smarter financial decisions and planning for a secure retirement are top priorities.

We’ve really enjoyed helping younger professionals get on the right path.”

How do your services differ from most other firms?

“We are more comprehensive and have dual expertise in financial planning and investment management. Many firms have competence in one area or the other, but at JDM we offer expertise in both—which enables us to optimize

overall advice to clients.”

Is retirement planning very different for someone in their mid-30s than it is for someone in their mid-50s?

“Yes, for two main reasons. First, at a younger age, planning can be more difficult because it is harder for young adults to envision retirement and to determine their lifestyle priorities in advance. Secondly, for younger professionals, multiple financial goals compete for limited resources, and therefore the challenge of setting priorities adds complexity to the process.

For example, with limited dollars a couple in their 30s may be simultaneously saving to buy their first home, interested in funding their childrens’ education and planning for retirement. An empty-nest Baby Boomer, on the other hand, has goals that all revolve around the narrower question of how to prepare for a comfortable and secure retirement. Thus, planning for younger adults usually requires a broader understanding of personal finance as well as insight into a greater number of life cycle issues and stages.”

What is truly unique about JDM Financial Group’s approach?

“I built a financial services firm of which I would want to be a client. Our mission is to help clients make smarter financial decisions so limited financial resources, time and energy yield the greatest possible results in their lives.

In our approach, there are no sales agendas, no proprietary products and no investment commissions. Our focus is on our clients’ best interest and overall well-being. We take a holistic approach and work with multiple generations of a family to ensure that the efforts of one generation leave a lasting legacy for generations to come.”

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Finance & Wealth Management

COMPASS FINANCIAL ADVISORS Joni Deakins & Mark Deakins Owners

15760 Ventura Blvd., Ste. 700, Encino 818-995-9492 lplfinancial.lpl.com

C

ompass Financial Advisors helps individuals and families plot a course to work toward their financial goals, whether it be funding education, preparing for retirement or creating and maintaining wealth. Owners Joni and Mark Deakins have been married for nearly three decades and have three sons.

How do you differentiate your firm from others in the industry?

“We’re all about family and relationships and helping people strive to achieve freedom from financial worries which can poison the things that matter most to them. We’re a boutique firm, so we bring a personal touch that might be lacking in many larger organizations. But we also partner with the largest independent brokerdealer in the country, LPL Financial.* So we cover both ends of the spectrum in a way.”

Describe your typical client.

“They’re a diverse group. We have families that have built a legacy and want to pass it on to their kids, as well as young families trying to figure out how to pay for private school or college.

We have high net worth entertainment clients and business owners who need a strategy to make what they’ve built last, in the event of a career change or setback. And retirees who need to protect and stretch their retirement savings. We also work with business owners setting up 401(k) plans or defined benefits.”

How would you describe your relationship with your clients?

“Ongoing communication with our clients is key for us. We consider many of our clients friends.

We know their families, where their kids attend school, their life situations and most importantly

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their long-term goals. Virtually every one of our clients has our cell numbers, so the understanding is that if they need us, all they need to do is pick up the phone. They need to be able to reach us when they need us—not just from 9 to 5. We consider our clients partners. The more involved they are in creating a strategy with us, the better they understand and participate in that strategy. We want to do all we can to eliminate financial stress and create confidence for them. They trust us to take care of them. We take that responsibility very seriously.”

How do you address clients’ specific needs?

“It’s vital to us to be able to sit with our clients and listen to their goals and concerns so that we understand what’s really going on. We’ll go as deep as we need to and take as long as we need to so that we—and they—can nail down their needs and we can get started on finding the best way to meet them. We are passionate about what we do. There are very few professions where you feel like you can make a significant difference in someone’s life. Ours is one of them.”

Do referrals play into what you do?

“Absolutely. And 90% of our referrals come from our clients. That tells you something about our relationships with them. We also work with several business managers who send their clients to us. It is a great collaboration. It is crucial that we work together to work toward creating the best investment and tax strategies for our clients.”

What is your most important strategy for building wealth?

“Manage debt, invest as early as possible, as

consistently as possible and as patiently as possible in a broadly diversified portfolio.” **

How does the economy play into what your firm does?

“We don’t have a crystal ball. Nobody does.

The economy and the markets will always go through their gyrations. Some investments might be negatively impacted by economic developments, some remain neutral and some will reap positive returns. We are continually watching for those changes and constantly monitoring our client’s portfolios. We recommend to our clients that they hold a diverse array of investments.

That is an important key to safeguarding their wealth so that regardless of what the economy is doing, they’re confident that their strategy is working to minimize volatility.”

How do you give back to your community?

“Joni volunteers for Shane’s Inspiration, the Mary Duque Juniors for Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and Notre Dame High School.

Mark has served as a lay pastor with our church for many years and works to seek ways to strengthen our community.”

Disclaimer: The financial consultants at Compass Financial are registered representatives with and securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. Mark Deakins offers financial planning through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor. *As reported in Financial Planning Magazine, 1996-2016, based on total revenue. **There is no guarantee that a diversified portfolio will enhance overall returns or outperform a nondiversified portfolio. Diversification does not protect against market risk.

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FAST FACT Joni and Mark have been married for 29 years and have three sons: Charles, Jackson and Henry. They love to travel and scuba dive as a family.

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REAL ESTATE OURVENTURABLVD.COM/REAL-ESTATE

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CalBRE License #01246402

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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

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11555Dilling.aaroe.site Alan Taylor 818.650.1603

STUDIO CITY

$1,599,000 818.262.3532

SUNSET STRIP

11201 Acama St Donovan Healey

BALDWIN HILLS/VIEW PARK

$1,395,000 310.903.1876

PASADENA

DOWNTOWN LA

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

CR A IG K N I ZEK

TH E FI N EST R EPR ES ENTATI O N O F TH E FI N EST ESTATES

FOR SALE 16665LINDATERRACE.COM PAC I F I C PA L I S A D E S | $ 4 , 59 5 , 0 0 0 5 B EDS | 4. 5 BAT H S | 4, 28 3 SQ. F T. | 9,756 SQ. F T. LOT

FOR SALE 4444LIBBIT.COM E N C I N O S | $ 4 , 9 5 0 , 0 0 0

5 B EDS | 6 BAT H S | 7, 878 SQ. F T. | 39,66 4 SQ. F T. LOT

FOR SALE 18625WELLS.COM TA R Z A N A | $ 2 , 9 9 5 , 0 0 0 6 B EDS | 8 BAT H S | 6 ,1 82 SQ. F T. | 4 6 , 351 SQ. F T. LOT

FOR SALE 5625ROU NDMEADOW.COM H I D D E N H I L L S | $ 6 , 9 9 9 , 0 0 0 6 B EDS | 8 BAT H S | 1 0,7 78 SQ. F T. | 6 3 ,1 62 SQ. F T. LOT

IN ESCROW 14649 LACOTA PLACE S H E R M A N O A K S | $ 1 , 5 2 5 , 0 0 0 3 B EDS | 3 BAT H S | 2,7 7 7 SQ. F T. | 9,0 0 8 SQ. F T. LOT

IN ESCROW 17100 R ANCHO STREET E N C I N O | $ 2 , 4 9 5 , 0 0 0 7 B EDS | 9 BAT H S | 1 1 , 50 0 SQ. F T. | 1 3 0,6 37 SQ. F T. LOT 1 7 1 0 0 R A N C H O.CO M

JUST SOLD 17085 R ANCHO STREET E N C I N O | $ 3 , 5 9 5 , 0 0 0 5 B EDS | 7 BAT H S | 6 , 556 SQ. F T. | 67,05 8 SQ. F T. LOT

S O LD I N 3 DAYS 3701 LONGRIDGE AVENUE S H E R M A N O A K S | $ 6 , 4 9 5 , 0 0 0 6 B EDS | 8 BAT H S | 7,1 4 0 SQ. F T. | 4 8 ,75 4 SQ. F T. LOT

CR A IG K N I Z EK

C K N IZEK@T H E AG EN C Y R E.CO M 8 1 8 .61 8 .1 0 0 6

An international associate of Savills

THEAGENCYRE.COM

Country Ridge Estates ST HI L LS R D

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C OUNT RY RIDGE RD

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Set amidst sweeping canyon and mountain views minutes from the heart of Calabasas, Country Ridge is a private estate community offering a distinct style of living at the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains. P r o v i d i n g u n m a t c h e d s p a c e, privacy and serenity, five homesites and four hacienda-style residences are set upon 5 to 40 idyllic acres and seamlessly connected to the nature that surrounds.

C ALAB AS AS C OU NTRY CLUB

LAS V IRG

An Exceptional Lifestyle In An Idyllic Setting

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Represented by CRAIG KNIZEK & MICHELLE SCHWARTZ

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MOD EL E STAT E OPE N TUES, THURS, FRI, SAT, SUN 11AM - 4PM

Price Upon Request

424.221.5039 C OUNTRY R IDGE C AL ABASAS.COM The developer reserves the right to make modifications in materials, specifications, plans, pricing, various fees, designs, scheduling and delivery of the homes without prior notice. All dimensions are approximate and subject to normal construction variances and tolerances. Plans and dimensions may contain minor variations from floor to floor. This is not an offer to sell or solicitation to buy to residents in jurisdictions in which registration requirements have not been fulfilled, but is intended for information only. Listing Broker: The Agency New Development CA RE 01973483. 6/29/16. Obtain the property report or its equivalent by federal and state law and read it before signing anything. No federal or state agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. .

COOL CALMNESS | JR DAVIDSON, 1939 ENCINO

ALAN TAYLOR 818.650.1603 CalBRE 01369255

Mortgage Capital Partners

$1.54m

Total Properties Currently for Sale

151

187

Number of Properties Sold (August)

55

Average Days on Market (August) Sold Price per Square Foot (August)

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$1.15m

$1.15m

$1.47m

$738k

114

105

113

208

53

35

28

30

54

55

40

40

48

60

25

$492

$491

$608

$434

$442

$375

2.7

3.5

3.3

3.8

3.8

3.9

Month's Supply of Inventory

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$1.31m

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Average Sales Price

Ca lab a

Single Family Homes

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Aimee’s Neighborhood Market Update

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

Exciting New Jumbo Option

2.77% APR* 5/1 ARM PURCHASE LOAN 30yr Fixed Rate Available up to

$3,000,000

loan amount

REFINANCE TO CONSOLIDATE YOUR MORTGAGE AND HELOC WHILE RATES ARE LOW!

Trevor Lane

Aimee Lane

818.971.9380 direct

323.868.8450 direct

VP Mortage Lending

REALTOR®

trevormlane@gmail.com

aimeeglane@gmail.com

Mortgage Capital Partners

NMLS #531594

trevormlane.com

Your Neighbor and Local Jumbo Loan Specialist

CALBRE #01976084

aimeelaneproperties.com

Aimee will help you get where you want to go! As a Realtor® and a licensed attorney, Aimee has excellent listening skills and is always attentive to helping you realize your real estate goals.

*This is not an offer for extension of credit or a commitment to lend. The advertised loan is a 5/1 ARM (Adjustable Rate Mortgage) with a 30-year fully amortizing term. The initial interest rate is 2.5% for 60 months. The disclosed APR is based on 1 discount point, $1,495 lender fee and $1,500 in additional prepaid finance charges which will be due at closing. For a $100,000 loan, there is a 2.77% APR with an initial monthly principal and interest payment of $395 for the first 60 months. After the initial period, the variable interest rate and payment will adjust every year and equal the total of the 12-month LIBOR index plus a margin of 2.25%. The maximum periodic change in the interest rate is 2% with a maximum rate increase of 5% above the initial interest rate. If the interest rate adjusted to the maximum rate (which could not occur until after the fifth year), the maximum monthly payment would be $699 for $100,000. There is no prepayment penalty. The Annual Percentage Rate (APR) is variable and is subject to increase or decrease, so your payments may increase or decrease each year after the initial period. Disclosure Assumptions: 780 Fico score with a maximum loan-to-value of 65% on a primary residence purchase. The actual interest rate, APR and payment may vary based on the specific terms of the loan selected, verification of information, your credit history, the location and type of property, and other factors as determined by Lenders.

Interest rate and APR are variable and subject to increase Not available in all states. Rates are subject to change daily without notice. Payment amounts shown do not include taxes or insurance. If your property is currently listed, this is not intended as a solicitation. Mortgage Capital Partners, Inc. is a lender under California Real Estate License #01858965. NMLS #239902. © 2016 Mortgage Capital Partners, Inc.

just listed

just listed

3925 Archdale Rd., Encino $5,499,000 www.ArchdaleEstate.com

16672 Ashley Oaks, Encino $2,299,000 www.EstateOnAshleyOaks.com

sold

active

13151 Cheltenham Dr., Sherman Oaks $3,999,000 www.ShermanOaksViewEstate.com

3833 Hayvenhurst Dr., Encino $2,250,000 www.ColonyWestEncino.com

active

sold over list price!

17657 Rancho St., Encino $3,270,000 www.RanchoStreetEstate.com

sold

3857 Hayvenhurst Dr., Encino $3,500,000 www.HayvenhurstDriveEstate.com

17437 Palora St., Encino $1,925,000 www.PaloraStreet.com

New ListiNg ComiNg sooN Longridge Estates New Construction with over 9,000 Sq. ft. $7,500,000

Nobody does it better... sold

16754 Ashley Oaks, Encino $2,799,000 www.AshleyOaksEncino.com

818.285.3688

www.CarolWolfe.com

sold

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

sold

18001 Karen Dr., Encino $1,799,000 www.KarenDriveVilla.com

#1 Agent

active

16471 Dorado Dr., Encino $2,399,000 www.DoradoViewEstate.com

Rodeo Realty San Fernando Valley

CalBRE #00477745

sold

3757 Hayvenhurst Ave., Encino $1,499,000 www.HayvenhurstAvenue.com

ANDREW MANNING

TARZANA 3720 LITCHFIELD LANE $2,799,000 5 beds 5.5 baths 6,399 sq ft

Top 10 Agents for BHHS Nationwide

21,627 sq ft lot www.3720litchfield.com

SHERMAN OAKS

TARZANA

4401 EL CABALLERO DRIVE | $1,949,000 5 beds l 5.5 baths l 5,448 sq ft l 24,479 sq ft lot

ENCINO

4655 WHITE OAK AVENUE | $1,795,000 4 beds l 3.5 baths l 3107 sq ft l 17,167 sq ft lot

ENCINO

ENCINO

14305 ROBLAR PLACE $4,999,000 7 beds 8.5 baths 6,760 sq ft 21,511 sq ft lot 4723 WHITE OAK AVENUE | $3,749,000 5 beds | 7.5 baths | 9,065 sq ft | 21,541 sq ft lot

STUDIO CITY

12021 GUERIN STREET, #107 | $808,000 3 beds l 2.5 baths l 1,470 sq ft

16144 HIGH VALLEY PLACE | $3,495,000 4 beds l 3.75 baths l 6,494 sq ft l 30,034 sq ft lot

ENCINO

SHERMAN OAKS

14520 GREENLEAF STREET | $1,875,000 6 beds l 5.5 baths l 4,637 sq ft l 6,801 sq ft lot

4546 GAVIOTA COURT | $3,395,000 5 beds l 6.5 baths l 5,841 sq ft l 10,899 sq ft lot

www.andrewmanning.com 818-380-2147 | andrew@andrewmanning.com CalBRE#: 00941825 ©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. Information is obtained from various sources and will not be verified by broker or MLS. CalBRE 00941825

Expertise is the Difference Coldwell Banker Previews International has more global coverage, office locations and agents than any other company specializing in luxury real estate.

15409 Longbow Drive, Sherman Oaks $1,675,000 3+3 near Mulholland Drive www.15409Longbow.com

4519 Haskell Avenue, Encino Sold $2,250,000

3440 Vista Haven Rd, Sherman Oaks Sold $1,750,000

3426 Vista Haven Road, Sherman Oaks Sold $1,855,000

www.4519Haskell.com

www.3440VistaHaven.com

www.3426VistaHaven.com

BARRY DANTAGNAN REALTORÂŽ | CalBRE 01020477

DIRECT: 818.728.3994 CELL: 818.426.8677 BarryDantagnan@gmail.com www.BarryDantagnan.com

$4,920,000 | 3645 Deerpass Rd, Glendale | 5BD/5BA A. Sarkissian/N. Cacarnakis | 626.695.2808/626.644.4262

$1,295,000 | 4855 Nomad Drive, Woodland Hills | 4BD/5BA Gary McLaughlin | 818.425.1329

$2,999,999 | 3946 Fredonia Dr, Hollywood Hills | 4BD/4½BA Laura Kellam | 310.748.5344

$2,299,000 | 19400 Olivos Dr, Tarzana | 5BD/5BA Kay Fields | 818.419.1172

$1,699,000 | 3904 Ballina Canyon Rd, Encino | 4BD/3BA Cynthia Miller | 818.371.2724

$1,690,000 | 300 N Kalorama St, Ventura | 4BD/3½BA Ellyn Dembowski | 805.320.1206

$1,325,000 | 4011 Goodland Ave, Studio City | 2BD/3BA Steve Shanks | 818.817.4215

$1,298,000 | 4621 Hurford Terr, Encino | 3BD/2½BA Cynthia Miller | 818.371.2724

$1,150,000 | 4465 Park Arroyo, Calabasas | 3BD/3BA Jennifer Camp | 818.633.9501

©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. Information is obtained from various sources and will not be verified by broker or MLS. CalBRE 01317331

znagy@kw.com

818.481.1602

REALTOR | CalBRE# 01832306

S. OF VENTURA

3742 Buena Park Dr. Studio City

S. OF VENTURA

www.3742BuenaPark.com

4BD | 4BA | Contemporary with views

$1,519,000

S. OF VENTURA

3631 Oakfield Dr. Sherman Oaks

4BD | 4BA | Pool and Spa

www.3600Coldwater.com $1,450,000

S. OF VENTURA

www.3631Oakfield.com

2BD | 2BA Home w/multiple view decks

$1,095,000

LUXURY LIVING

12020 Talus Pl, Beverly Hills

3600 Coldwater Canyon, Studio City

11989 Laurelwood #2, Studio City www.11989Laurelwood.com 3BD | 3BA Luxury 2 story Condo

$825,000

POCKET LISTING

www.12020Talus.com

4BD | 4.5BA Luxury in Guard Gated “Summit”

$4,349,000

4546 Radford Ave. Studio City 5BD | 4BA | Guest House | Pool

www.4546Radford.com $1,699,000

WHERE WE LIVE | DEP

LAST WORD

Campus Sting Photograph by Luis Luque

S

ting treated some 200 lucky people to a private concert at the Valley Performing Arts Center on the campus of CSUN. He arrived to do an interview at the on-campus radio station—KCSN (88.5)—while promoting his new album 57 th and 9 th. Saying he really appreciates the ongoing support from KCSN, Sting had agreed to perform a couple of songs at the station afterwards. When VPAC’s executive director, Thor Steingrabber, heard of the musician’s upcoming visit, he suggested that instead of playing at the radio station, why not perform inside VPAC’s state-of-the-art performance center? Sting agreed. In the ensuing weeks, lucky KCSN listeners won tickets in a lottery and invitations were extended to VPAC supporters and donors.

So for a precious 40 minutes, a group of mostly middle-aged folks got to feel like they did as carefree students or as twentysomethings just beginning to embark on adulthood. Listening to the 65-year-old’s crystal clear and still-powerful vocals, you could close your eyes, mimic every lyric and sway to the familiar rhythms of the band that put Sting on the map, The Police. He played some of his new songs, but he knew we all wanted the old stuff. Once you pass a certain age, taking a step back in time is irresistable—even if just for a moment. 

122

VENTURA BLVD, NOVEMBER 2016

ourventurablvd.com

Harriet & Andrew Ranked in the top 20 of all Berkshire Hathaway Agents nationwide.

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4529 Gloria Ave, Encino $4,995,900

4840 Encino Ave, Encino $4,395,000

Reimagined Sophistication - 8 bedroom 10 bathroom 8400 square feet

Private, Gated, Luxurious - 6 Bedroom 10 Bath 9269 Square Feet

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16998 Encino Hills Dr, Encino $2,849,000

15433 Valley Vista Bl, Sherman Oaks $1,759,000

Amazing Architectural Modern - 5 Bedroom 4.5 Bath 4660 Square Feet

Chic Upscale Hollywood Glam - 4 bedroom 5 Bathroom 3952 Square Feet

Results That Move You! Harriet’s & Andrew’s 2016 Sales

HarrietCameron.com 818-380-2151 BRE#675971

Confidential* Jim Bridger, Hidden Hills Off Market High Knoll, Encino 16745 Bosque Dr, Encino 19425 Shirley Ct, Tarzana* 16688 Ashley Oaks, Encino 16266 Bertella Dr, Encino 16401 Garvin Dr, Encino 15605 Woodvale Rd, Encino 4921 Avenida Oriente, Tarzana 3401 White Rose, Encino 4531 Noeline Way, Encino* 145 S. Avon St, Burbank 4745 Yarmouth Ave, Encino 17437 Tarzana St, Encino 14915 Rhinestone Dr, Sherman Oaks 17149 McCormick St, Encino* Off Market Empress, Encino* 4411 Alfarena Pl, Tarzana

$9,000,000 $5,750,000 $2,797,000 $2,610,000 $2,569,000 $2,413,000 $2,225,000 $2,103,000 $2,035,000 $1,827,500 $1,815,000 $1,795,000 $1,650,000 $1,577,780 $1,575,000 $1,568,000 $1,565,000 $1,495,000

$78,000,000+ in Closed Sales 4908 Noeline Ave, Encino 3522 Stonewood Dr, Sherman Oaks 4820 Gaviota Ave, Encino 14632 Valley Vista, Sherman Oaks* 3849 Scadlock Ln, Sherman Oaks 3620 Sheridge Dr, Sherman Oaks 4720 Park Encino #320, Encino 16939 Otsego St, Encino 17403 Sumiya Dr, Encino 4960 Stern Ave, Sherman Oaks 22623 Califa St, Woodland Hills 4649 Louise Ave, Encino Off Market Oak View Dr, Encino Off Market Alonzo Ave, Encino 5128 Libbit Ave, Encino* 4601 Saloma Ave, Sherman Oaks 10648 Woodbridge Ave #127, Toluca Lake 5433 Tampa Ave, Tarzana 5301 Balboa #P4, Encino*

$1,490,000 $1,425,000 $1,360,000 $1,275,000 $1,205,000 $1,189,000 $1,180,000 $1,155,000 $1,105,000 $1,075,000 $1,260,000 $1,211,650 $1,000,000 $980,000 $827,500 $765,000 $725,000 $699,000 $285,000

*Represented Both Buyer(s) and Seller(s)

AndrewSpitz.com 818-817-4284 BRE#924610

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. Information is obtained from various sources and will not be vafified by broker or MLS. CalBRE 01317331