Ventura Blvd Magazine - September/October 2015 by Moon Tide Media

Fall Fashion: Modern Retro p.54

Reality Check: Having it All p.67

One of Us: Lucy in the Valley p.70

WHERE WE LIVE

THE

WOMEN'S ISSUE SPECIAL SECTION: WOMEN IN BUSINESS p. 74

OURVE N T U RA B LV D.CO M

SIX DOLLARS

SEPT/OCT 2015

Fall Fashion: Modern Retro p.56

Reality Check: Having it All p.69

One of Us: Lucy in the Valley p.72

WHERE WE LIVE

THE

WOMEN'S ISSUE SPECIAL SECTION: WOMEN IN BUSINESS p. 76

OU RV EN T U RA B LV D.CO M

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In The Company of Women

SEPT/OCT 2015

ISSUE PRESENTED BY:

elcome to fall and to Ventura Blvd’s annual Women’s Issue. Having grown up in a family with five sisters, I like to think I know a little bit about women. But when it comes to great, strong, accomplished women of the San Fernando Valley, the real arbiter is our editor-in-chief, Linda Grasso. In this issue, Linda treats you to insights and profiles of some remarkable female leaders and innovators who, through dedication and passion, are making the Valley—and beyond—a better place. Amy Marella and Allyson Arons are in that group. This month the Valley dwellers open a unique, do-it-yourself flower shop called Fleurish at the new Village at Westfield Topanga. Amy is the well-known floral designer who has created designs at her longtime florist shop, Hidden Garden. She and good friend Allyson came up with the smart idea of letting customers enjoy the art of flower arranging (whether it be a girls night out or a birthday party) via a bit of guidance from the “iFleur tablet.” They opened their first shop in Brentwood to great success, and when they decided to open a second location, lucky for us they chose their own neck of the woods. We are delighted to welcome Fleurish as the sponsor of our Women’s Issue. Something I learned from my mom— another truly great woman: Every place is made better with beautiful, fresh blossoms.

Charlie Koones, Managing Partner

Moon Tide Media

Fall Fashion: Modern Retro p.54

Reality Check: Having it All p.67

One of Us: Lucy in the Valley p.70

WHERE WE LIVE

THE

WOMEN'S ISSUE SPECIAL SECTION: WOMEN IN BUSINESS p. 74

OURVE N T U RA B LV D.CO M

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SEPT/OCT 2015

Topanga

THE VILLAGE

Michael M. Marvi, MD, MS

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

Where We Live 16 Q & A

29 Weekender

Tasha Smith

Del Mar

20 Style File

30 Friendly Competition

Arm candy

Chopped salads

22 Give

33 Datebook

City Hearts

Fun stuff to do

25 Wellness Report

34 As You Were

The doctor is in

Orcutt Ranch Park

26 New in the Valley

36 Seen

The Village

Faces spotted on the party circuit

The Sauce 50 New Kids on the Block

52 Beefy Book

3 restaurant debuts 51 Grape Goddesses

Jared Stone & Year of the Cow

Women vintners

Features 54

It’s a Wrap

A smashing pictorial of the season’s most intriguing looks. Clockwise from top: Entrepreneur Lois Keller at home with her two daughters; the color raspberry provides a central theme of a home’s decor; winemaking with a distinctly feminine touch.

60 In the Red

How color inspired the sophisticated décor of a home in Sherman Oaks.

Mothers of Reinvention

Three locals make strides in their quest to pursue demanding careers while raising kids. 70

Lucy in the Valley

The story of how comedienne and actress Lucille Ball lived and loved here—and never forgot it.

And Then Some... 74 Profiles: Women in Business

The top women professionals of the Valley

Real Estate

Spectacular local listings 114 Last Word

Bowling for love

Cover by:

Photographer Shane O’Donnell, stylist Sheryl Marcus, makeup artist Marylin Lee. Model Rebecca Quinn, courtesy of L.A. Models. For outfit details, see page 54.

VENTURA BLVD, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

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NO AGENDA REQUIRED Nordstrom · Barneys New York · Schott N.Y.C. · Tankfarm & Co. · J.Crew · H&M · Barnes & Noble · Apple · Sur La Table · David Yurman The Art of Shaving · Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina · Katsuya · Din Tai Fung · Frida Mexican Cuisine · Trattoria Amici · Pacific Theatres

Glendale, CA

818.637.8982

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

ART DIRECTOR

Linda Grasso

Michelle Villas EDITORIAL

Editorial Director | Darren Elms Copy Editor | Laura Watts Graphic Designers | Elena Lacey, Christine Georgiades VB’s The Sauce eNewsletter Editor | Diane Haithman CONTRIBUTORS Pauline Adamek, Victoria Clayton, Heather David, Bonnie Graves, Marylin Lee, Sheryl Marcus, Karen Silver, Judith A. Stock, Rachel Heller Zaimont

OPEN HOUSE

October 7th @ 7pm November 18th @ 7pm

PHOTOGRAPHERS Siri Berting, Tracy Breshears, D’Andre Michael, Michael Neveux, Shane O’Donnell, Karen Ray, Lu Tapp, Raul Vega ADVERTISING

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Wednesday mornings @ 9:15am (Starting October 7th) To register, please call 818-990-1006 or email info@losencinosschool.org

310-502-8262 | jared@moontidemedia.com 310-897-2424 | erika@moontidemedia.com MARKETING & OPERATIONS

MANAGING PARTNERS

Charles C. Koones

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No part of this periodical may be reproduced in any form or by any means without prior written consent from Moon Tide Media, LLC. Any and all submissions to this or any Moon Tide Media, LLC publication become the property of Moon Tide Media, LLC and may be used in any media. We reserve the right to edit. TO OUR READERS Ventura Blvd magazine welcomes your feedback to our magazine and stories. Please send your letters to: Reader Response Department, Ventura Blvd Magazine, PO Box 3760, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266. Please include your name and address and email address. Letters may be published. We reserve the right to edit.

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, VENTURA BLVD

EDITOR’S LETTER | LINDA GRASSO

A Feminine Touch

snazzy dresser. Yep, I’ll admit it. That is one of the things I admire in women and probably why I always have such a fun time on our fashion shoots. I’m always curious what our stylist, in this case the talented Sheryl Marcus, will choose and how she will, like a magician, swirl it all together into an fabulous ensemble. I learn something every time and hope you do too (“It’s a Wrap,” page 54). On a more substantive level, I also admire depth, a sense of humor, passion and confidence. I love women who are comfortable in their own shoes and dare to speak out—regardless of what others may think. Many of the women in this magazine, our annual Women’s issue, can be described as passionate, confident and daring too. The go-getters in “Mothers of Reinvention” (page 67) are charging forward with their career goals and carving their own path—juggling multiple children and smashing stereotypes along the way. Ditto for the women featured in our special Profiles section (“Women in Business,” page 74)—from financial advisor Joni Deakins, who while helping clients make impactful, strategic decisions adds warmth and compassion to the mix, to Donna Pohlad, who had a idea for a unique salon (dpHue), crafted a thoughtful business plan and executed it to the nines. Empire actress Tasha Smith (“Tasha Territory,” page 16) and the forward-thinking women vintners (“Grape Goddesses,” page 51) also fit that bill. So did Lucille Ball (“Lucy in the Valley,” page 70). I still love Lucy after all these years—mostly for her ability to laugh at herself. She makes me want to dye my hair a bold shade of red and wear it, like her, with all the panache of a pinup girl.

BRAIN FREEZE

In the Summer issue of Ventura Blvd magazine, we featured a piece on men’s do’s and don’ts for summer attire. We erroneously did not properly credit our wonderful stylist, Allison Rae Marsh. In that same issue, we also failed to put information about the dish shown on our cover. That dish, roasted mushrooms with burnt sweet potato, was created by Chef Phillip Frankland Lee at The Gadarene Swine in Studio City. Good Grapes: The Accidental Vintners of the Valley

p.54

WHERE WE LIVE

food THE

ISSUE

SPECIAL SECTION:

ALL THINGS FOOD p. 75 OU RV E N T U RA B LV D.CO M

SIX DOLLARS

SUMMER 2015

7/15/15 4:37 PM

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

at linda@moontidemedia.com.

VENTURA BLVD, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 2015

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perform The Beatles Complete Hollywood Bowl and Dodger Stadium Concerts ’64–’66

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WHERE WE LIVE

Night Life

Delectable dishes, divine drinks and the who’s who of the Valley—all out in full force at the debut of NoHo’s hippest new restaurant. Get in on that party (and a few others) on page 36.

WHERE WE LIVE | Q&A

Tasha Territory Actress Tasha Smith on what some are calling an Empire Emmy snub, her new Sherman Oaks actors studio and how black is back. PHOTOGRAPHED BY

Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ANDRE MICHAEL

VENTURA BLVD, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

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Q&A | WHERE WE LIVE

Talent aside, what do you credit your successful career to? A great attitude, refusing to give up, always growing and learning as an artist, being open-minded and not limiting myself, being realistic and being pleasant to work with.

For Tasha Smith, snagging roles in the Tyler Perry movies was a game changer. But the 44-year-old actress has been catapulted into another showbiz stratosphere with one of the past year’s biggest hits, FOX’s hip-hop drama Empire. Here she chats with editor-in-chief Linda Grasso on this new, exciting chapter in her life, which also includes an effort to help bolster the skills of other actors. With 20 feature films, you’ve had success in a really tough business. Plus it is an extra challenge being a woman and there is a dearth of roles for blacks. Talk about hurdles ... Like any sport or business, we have certain things that we are just going to have to deal with. It’s part of the game. Getting jobs, not getting jobs, ups and downs ... I try to have a positive attitude and just enjoy the journey and experiences— good and bad.

ourventurablvd.com

Speaking of talent— there is a ginormous amount involved in the making of Empire. Who do you enjoy working with the most? Lee Daniels (show creator)—hands down. He is my creative hero—a genius. I learn so much every second that I’m blessed with an opportunity to work with, collaborate with or just shoot the stuff with him. In the not-too-distant past, industry pundits would have said no way could an hourlong drama featuring an allblack cast be a hit. I feel this show has re-educated this industry on the importance of black talent and urban stories. BLACK is back. Tell us a bit about your new “brick-and-mortar” actors studio in Sherman Oaks. It’s called TSAW (Tasha Smith Actors Workshop, tsaw.com). I started TSAW over 10 years ago because I wanted to empower actors to pursue their purpose in the arts. I love actors and creative people, so I wanted to offer a space for the artist to create and grow in.

We women simply can’t be one thing for the entirety of our lives … and yet REINVENTION IS SO CHALLENGING and often seems impossible when youth is taken out of the equation.” The September issue is our annual Women’s issue. Reinvention is a big topic right now— particularly with women post-40. How do you feel about it? We women simply can’t be one thing for the entirety of our lives … and yet reinvention is so challenging and often seems impossible when youth is taken out of the equation. I think it’s important for us post40-somethings, which I am a proud member of, to stay fit and willing to change. Sometimes in order for us to reinvent ourselves creatively, personally, professionally and socially, we must do something different—like breaking bad habits and behavior, or going places we’ve never been and doing things we’ve never done so that we can be stimulated in ways we have not been. I believe these things will encourage and inspire us to be greater, dream bigger and live happier.

Do you feel that, with only one nomination, Empire was snubbed by the Emmys? We all know that it is a fantastic series and a groundbreaking success. I am personally grateful that Empire has been acknowledged, period. And I feel Taraji [Taraji P. Henson, up for Best Actress] has a huge chance of winning because she’s wonderful on the show. I understand you are dear friends with Tisha Campbell Martin. What is it that bonds you two? I feel our history has given us a great bond. I’ve known Tisha since I was 15 years old. She loved me then, and she loves me still. She’s been there for me through highs and lows in life, as I have for her. I feel confident and secure that she will be in my life for the rest of my life. Our love for each other is unconditional. We are each a huge support system for one another, and I feel we are past friendship … we are family. Why did you choose to live in the Valley? I love the Valley! It’s quiet, suburban and a neighborhood that I didn’t grow up in. Also, you can’t beat the cost of living for great homes.l

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, VENTURA BLVD

Women in Business

NAME

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

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, VENTURA BLVD

We’re here for you so you can focus on what matters most

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WHERE WE LIVE | STYLE FILE

TOP BRANCH Inspiration cuff, $83, gumtreela.com. Glass bangles with crystals, $27 each, amaloa.com.

Arm Candy Bracelets, bangles and cuffs to devour this fall STYLED BY DARREN

ELMS

PHOTOGRAPHED BY MICHAEL

NEVEUX

SECOND BRANCH African opal, crystal and leather bracelet, $233, chanluu.com. Beaded bracelet with quartz pendant, $54, shopkatwalk.com. Pink and gold bracelet, $12, shopharperandharlow.com.

THIRD & BOTTOM BRANCHES Tuliptree bangle in 14k rose gold fill and Swarovski crystal, $74, applepearcollection.com. Beaded bracelets, $26 each, waverlyboutique.com. Leather and stone cuff, $88, urbanclotheshorse.com.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY RAUL VEGA

WHERE WE LIVE | GIVE

VENTURA BLVD, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

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GIVE | WHERE WE LIVE

Arts with Heart Two longtime public defenders share their love of the arts with one of the most impactful nonprofits for at-risk kids in the Valley. WRITTEN BY RACHEL

HELLER ZAIMONT

few weeks into her new job as a lawyer with the Los Angeles County public defender’s office, Sherry Jason took a tour of LA’s Central Juvenile Hall. Between the clank of steel doors and the clamor of a basketball game, Sherry heard a few notes struck on a piano. She followed the source of the music and found a boy in an orange jumpsuit playing Mozart. Charged with murder, his future looked bleak. Sherry was moved to tears. “I stood there going, ‘What if he had met that piano before he met gangs?’” Sherry recalls. “What if he had found music first?”

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That question stayed with Sherry as she worked with her young clients and learned about their backgrounds—the violence, the absence of nurturing and guidance, the lack of hope. “If you have something artistic and creative to hold onto, to anchor you, a lot of kids could make it,” she says, recalling her feelings. Those thoughts propelled her, along with husband Bob Jason—also an attorney in the public defender’s office—to found City Hearts in 1984. The organization provides free arts education to children in underserved neighborhoods. Thirty years later, their mission remains strong: to transform the lives of at-risk kids through the creativity, imagination and vision that comes with doing something artistic—whether it’s picking up a camera or performing in a play. The nonprofit started small. The couple leased a loft downtown, and Sherry—a Van Nuys native and a former ballerina—taught dance to disadvantaged children from a Skid Row school three times a week. She sent letters to elementary school principals to spread word about the program. Though arts are its core, City Hearts benefits from leadership by two veterans of the LA criminal justice system. During more than 40 years working as a defender in the Van Nuys and San Fernando courts, Bob took note of the circumstances common among kids in the system—namely, most were never taught how to set a goal and achieve it. “The kids all had talents that they

didn’t know could translate into a productive life,” he says. Law enforcement and incarceration run on big budgets, but prevention and intervention programs are often underfunded. The Jasons point out that one year of art classes costs a fraction compared with one year of incarceration, and the impact can be profound. When kids enter the program, they might be sullen, withdrawn, angry or rude. “After six months or a year of classes, they are a different person,” Bob says. Parents report that their children talk more at home, are more cooperative and do better in school. Former students routinely write them letters of thanks; one—now an IT tech—serves on their board. City Hearts offers classes in dance, musical theatre, photography, world music and drama—a program that culminates in the popular Shakespeare Challenge, held at the Theatricum Botanicum in Topanga, which more than 400 kids and their families attend. The nonprofit (cityhearts.org) now teaches about 1,500 kids per year and has worked with more than 33,000 children since its inception. The Jasons’ story was recently included in the book Talent for Humanity: Inspiring Stories of Creativity and Courage Changing Our World. “We see City Hearts as this delicious platter of the arts,” Sherry says. “We say, ‘Go ahead, try them all. Something is going to connect, and it’s going to change your life.’”

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, VENTURA BLVD

WELLNESS REPORT | WHERE WE LIVE

What’s Up Doc?

From the debate over nutritional drinks for kids to whether you should pay “surprise” medical bills, we get answers to your most pressing health questions. WRITTEN BY VICTORIA

CLAYTON |

ILLUSTRATED BY CHRISTINE

GEORGIADES

My 5-year-old is a super picky eater. TV ads claim nutritional supplement drinks, like PediaSure shakes, are great for fussy young diners. Good idea? An occasional nutritional shake may be OK, but it shouldn’t be a parent’s first line of defense, says pediatrician Alan L. Nager, MD, of Children’s Hospital Los Angeles in Hollywood (and the new CHLA outpatient clinic in Encino). “A better idea is to get creative with food. There are all kinds of ways to mix in vegetables without a child realizing it.” Some examples: turkey meatballs made with shredded carrot, green mashed potatoes (with a little broccoli), baked sweet potato fries, and fruit and veggie smoothies and even popsicles. If you’re really adventurous you can find recipes for stuff like chocolate pudding made with avocado.. “Also if you just keep introducing different fruits and vegetables, you’ll find three or four your child will eat,” says Dr. Nager. Bottom line: Unless your child has a specific health issue and your doctor tells you to supplement, in general supplemental products are more effective as parental anxiety-reducers than they are as nutritional must-haves.

In recent years years, I’ve taken a family member in for minor surgery two times. In both cases, I made sure the doctor and surgery center were “in network” for our insurance plan. After both surgeries we were shocked to get bills from “freelance” anesthesiologists who, as it turns out, were not affiliated with our plan. In one case the anesthesiologist’s $5,000 fee was almost as much as the surgeon’s! What gives? What gives should not be you. What you describe has been deemed by the consumer advocates as “surprise billing.” “I get a call from clients about this issue at least once a week,” says Woodland Hills health insurance agent Teri Frankel. “It’s not illegal, but it’s unconscionable and unfair.” She recommends calling the doctor’s billing office. “Oftentimes, if you simply explain that the facility and surgeon were in network and you were shocked to receive this out-of-network bill, they will immediately offer to adjust the bill.” If that doesn’t work, go online and look for a medical bill advocate who can negotiate the bill down. If you were misled—for example, you were told that the anesthesiologist or other specialist was innetwork—contact the Department of Insurance consumer hotline (800-927-4357 or insurance.ca.gov). They will fight the bill for you. There’s pending state legislation on this issue (AB 533) to make this practice illegal.

I’m pushing 40, and my skin is breaking out. Why now, and what’s the best way to treat it? “Many skin conditions—including acne—present for the first time in adulthood,” says Veena Vanchinathan, MD, a dermatologist at UCLA Health Porter Ranch. So there you go, we are not freaks! “The good news is that there are so many good treatment options for acne, but it will depend on the type of acne you have, your skin type, medical history and any relevant allergies.” Common acne treatments include benzoyl peroxide washes/foams, salicylic acid spot treatments, topical antibiotic preparations, topical retinoid creams and oral antibiotics. “Keep in mind that other conditions like rosacea and even minor hair follicle infections can mimic acne, so it really is important to see a dermatologist for evaluation and proper treatment,” says Dr. Vanchinathan. l

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

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, VENTURA BLVD

WHERE WE LIVE | NEW IN THE VALLEY

Mega-Mall by the Numbers

550,000

Square footage of The Village

Stores with celebrity connections (Kate Hudson’s Fabletics, Karina Smirnoff’s Dance Studio, Fred Levine’s—aka father of Adam—M. Fredric)

A Mecca of a Mall Years in the making, Southern California’s largest mall, The Village at Westfield Topanga, debuts this month.

alk about a grand unveiling. After 18 months of construction, The Village at Westfield Topanga opens September 18. Combined with Westfield’s two existing malls along the Topanga corridor (Westfield Topanga and the Promenade), The Village becomes the third largest regional shopping destination in the country. Navigating the expanse should be pretty simple. Two trolleys will run approximately every 15 minutes between Westfield Topanga (home to established anchors Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom) and The Village (the new structure). It will also make a stop in the Warner Center. With a nod to the history of the Warner Center site, the design integrates plant life and water elements that pay homage to the Valley before the region was developed. Towering, 100-year-old

VENTURA BLVD, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

California sycamores, as well as other trees, were salvaged from the site prior to the project’s groundbreaking and integrated into the new design. Beauty services will span the spectrum—ranging from the high-end, Beverly Hills-based Juan Juan Salon to the discount blowout bar Drybar. The Village is also home to a one-of-a-kind, super-sized Burke Williams Spa that is reminiscent of a Hamptons beach house. The Village also houses a state-of-theart, LEED-certified Costco. Westfield has partnered with alternative rock station KCSN (88.5 FM), which will open a satellite studio to broadcast daily on-air programming and produce and host weekly live music concerts at The Village, including one from top local artists every Sunday afternoon. A weekly, California-certified farmers market will be held on Sundays.

Number of restaurants we’ve never heard of (Cava Mezze Grill, EMC Seafood & Raw Bar, Eureka!, Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern, JOEY Kitchen, Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que, Pieology Pizzeria, Wokcano, XOC Tequila Grill , TACOXOC)

Number of stores we’ve never heard of (Bitter Root Pottery, Blushington, Skin Laundry, Black Sheep Mob, Everything But Water, Flywheel, Nathan Turner American Style, Montezemolo, Varga, Very Tiny Little Bling Things, Bearfruit)

300

Number of tenants

2,500

Number of parking spaces

$1.3 billion Estimated annual sales

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WEEKENDER | WHERE WE LIVE

Ain’t It Grand? A special racing season mixed with Mediterranean delights this fall in Del Mar WRITTEN BY DARREN

ELMS

an Diego’s stylish northern neighbor draws racing fans each summer to its famous tracks for special events, great dining and, of course, the ponies. But with last year’s introduction of the Bing Crosby Season in the fall, now there’s even more reason to check out the seaside town after the kids go back to school. Gearing up for its second year, the special season named after one of Del Mar’s greatest fans kicks off October 29 and will run well into the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. In addition to the thoroughbreds, expect a lineup of amazing parties, food and drink, and music concerts. Glamorous guests might want to participate in Opening Day’s Vintage Hollywood Fashion Contest—a chance to don duds of another era and compete for nifty prizes. Away from the tracks, another star attraction is the Grand Del Mar. This sprawling resort tucking into the Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve was recently purchased by Fairmont and retains all the Mediterranean splendor. Terra-cotta walls and red-striped awnings greet arriving guests at the entrance rotunda, your gateway to 249 beautifully appointed rooms, gift shops, a five-star spa, multiple dining options and more. Fairmont Grand Del Mar’s signature restaurant, Addison, features Relais & Châteaux Grand Chef William Bradley’s artisanal approach to cuisine, combining local ingredients with contemporary French influences. If you feel like taking the party into the wee hours, the resort is also home to Club M, a popular local nightclub. Mix, mingle and dance the night away with live music and guest DJs every weekend. But save some energy for tomorrow’s daytime activities. Enjoy tennis, the pool and horseback riding on canyon trails. And don’t forget the clubs. With stunning Los Peñasquitos Canyon as his canvas, designer Tom Fazio created a masterpiece of dramatic elevations, diverse bunkering and lush fairways with The Grand Golf Club.

RIDING HIGH Clockwise from top left: Horseback riding on the trails of neighboring Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve; the Fairmont Grand Del Mar; Chef William Bradley in the Addison kitchen; some of the restaurant’s beautiful dishes ready for service.

For more on the Bing Crosby Season, visit dmtc.com. To book a reservation at Grand Del Mar, call 858-314-2000 or visit fairmont.com/san-diego.

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, VENTURA BLVD

WHERE WE LIVE | FRIENDLY COMPETITION

Chop Chop! A competition for the Valley’s yummiest chopped salad WRITTEN BY KAREN

SILVER

PHOTOGRAPHED BY LU

TAPP

We asked four popular eateries to put their most popular chopped salad to the test. Our discriminating judges: all bona fide salad lovers—women who like to crunch when they lunch. Each salad was rated on a scale of 1 to 10.

1 EMILIO’S TRATTORIA, THE CHOPPED SALAD

Having been owned at one time by Beverly Hills’ La Scala WINN ER! Presto, it is no surprise that Emilio’s chopped salad is one of the Italian eatery’s most popular entrees. Despite the charge for add-ons like tomatoes, Emilio’s traditional chopped salad (available with salami or turkey) was the unanimous victor. PR: It’s not fancy but highlights the ingredients. Super-clean and wellchopped. Veggies are fresh, but the lettuce could be a little crisper. Love the red wine vinaigrette dressing. KS: Needs more color (it doesn’t look particularly special), but it tastes really good. The turkey and the cheese mix nicely together. JS: Delicious, simple and fresh. There’s lots of crunch and a generous amount of turkey and cheese. I really like the dressing—not too thick and a little tangy. 16234 Ventura Blvd., Encino, emiliostrattoria.net Score: 9.2

2 IL TRAMEZZINO, IL TRAM CHOPPED

All of the judges were impressed with this colorful salad, but it lost points on the dressing. PR: Nice presentation. Looks fresh, and you can see all of the ingredients; the tomatoes add nice color. Dressing is much too thick. KS: Colorful and plentiful. The veggies are fresh, and I really like the avocado and pepperoncini. Not a fan of the dressing. JS: I like how fresh it is, and the variety of vegetables– especially the avocado and pepperoncini. Don’t love the dressing; it’s too thick, and a bit of a strong balsamic flavor. 13031 Ventura Blvd, Studio City, 818-784-2244, iltram.net Score: 7.8

3 ARTISAN CHEESE GALLERY, CHOPPED SALAD

This cheese shop/eatery’s version had some unique ingredients that our judges all enjoyed. Interestingly enough, there was no cheese in it! PR: Enjoyed the pistachios, hearts of palm and avocado. Though I prefer when the lettuce is more finely chopped and I missed the garbanzo beans. Lemon dressing is delicious, but a bit too thick. KS: A really colorful salad;looks appetizing and interesting. Very fresh—the lettuce is crisp, and the veggies and avocado are vibrant. It could use a little something to give it a little kick, like pepperoncini or cheese. JS: The pistachios and hearts of palm are definitely a surprise that I really enjoyed. Dressing needs a little more zest to it. Would’ve liked the lettuce to be more chopped. 12023 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, 818-505-0207, artisancheesegallery-la.com

DIG IN Emilio’s classic chopped salad with salami

Score: 7.7

4 SWEET BUTTER, CHOPPED KALE SALAD

KAREN SATENBERG

Preschool teacher

PAM REIMS

JENNIFER SMITH

Private chef/caterer

Interior decorator

While the judges enjoyed Sweet Butter’s version and thought the presentation was appealing, they all noted that they would have preferred a more traditional lettuce for their chopped salad instead. PR: Looks very fresh, but you have to really like kale. It’s a bit too dense for me. The dressing is not thick enough to adhere to the kale, so it doesn’t soak in and add enough flavor. KS: The salad looks fancy with the kale—a healthier version of a traditional chopped. Veggies are crunchy and very fresh. I like the chicken best. Dressing needs more depth to it; it is too thin and balsamic-y. JS: Prettiest presentation of them all, with lots of strong color and nice contrast. Don’t love the kale or red peppers. Dressing needs to be thicker. 13824 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks, 818-788-2832, sweetbutterkitchen.com Score: 7.0

VENTURA BLVD, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

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The Bistro Garden AT COLDWATER

THE VALLEY’S ICONIC EATERY Sunday Brunch | Lunch | Dinner Happy Hour | Private Fireside Room Live piano 7 nights a week

12950 Ventura Blvd. Studio City | 818.501.0202 | www.bistrogarden.com | f

prime steaks. Legendary service.

Fine Wine • private dining • exceptional menu

I’m a peasant for wine.

19100 Ventura Blvd. Ste. N | Tarzana, CA 91356 818 . 708 . 7081 | eat@peasantwinebistro.com www.peasantwinebistro.com

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Warner Center | 6250 Canoga Ave | Woodland Hills, CA 91367 818-703-7272 | mortons.com / woodlandhills

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, VENTURA BLVD

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 Campus Tours

Primary School Information Evening - Thursday, Nov 5 Upper School Open House - Saturday, Oct 17 Middle School Open House - Saturday, Nov 7 Preview Day for Middle and Upper School - Saturday, Dec 5 www.viewpoint.org/admission or 818-591-6560 23620 Mulholland Highway, Calabasas, CA 91302

LIVES OF IMPACT BEGIN AT WESTRIDGE. AN INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FOR GIRLS IN GRADES 4-12

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324 MADELINE DRIVE, PASADENA 91105 | WESTRIDGE.ORG BUS TRANSPORTATION AVAILABLE FROM LOS FELIZ AND THE SAN FERNANDO VALLEY

VENTURA BLVD, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

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DATEBOOK | WHERE WE LIVE

AUTUMNAL ATTRACTIONS 18th annual LA Cancer Challenge 5K/10K Walk/Run

Warner Center Park A Halloween-themed, familyfriendly event that benefits pancreatic cancer research. October 25. lacancerchallenge.com

Gerald Brommer 200: For the Love of Art

San Fernando Valley Arts & Cultural Center This 200-piece exhibit showcases watercolor and acrylic works of the 89-year-old internationally acclaimed artist. October 6 to 24. sfvacc.org

COMING ATTRACTIONS Cancer walk/run. Below left to right: Gerald brommer painting, diavolo dance troupe

Diavolo/Architecture in Motion—L’Espace du Temps

Valley Performing Arts Center At the helm of choreographer Jacques Heim, this spellbinding dance troupe opens the 2015–2016 VPAC season. Accompanied by the New West Symphony. September 19 & 20. valleyperformingartscenter.org Going On Now

Green Grow the Lilacs A rough-and-tumble love story featuring singing cowboys and classic folk music of the pioneering era. Through September 26. theatricum.com LA County Fair Peruse acres of organic crops, milking demonstrations, the largest petting zoo in the state and live bands. Through September 27. lacf.com

September

11 Lenny Kravitz The musician showcases his unique version of rock ‘n’ roll with funky grooves and soulful hooks. greektheatrela.com

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October

11 & 13 Fireworks Finale with The B-52s and The Psychedelic Furs Dance the night away with two upbeat bands at this annual end-of-the-season bash. Plus the Bowl’s spectacular fireworks. hollywoodbowl.com

1 Boo at the Zoo Pumpkin-carving demonstrations, live entertainment and up-close encounters with “crawly” creatures. Through October 31. lazoo.org

13 Frank Gehry A retrospective with drawings and models that show the evolution of the revolutionary architect’s aesthetics. lacma.org

4 7th annual Good Food Pie Contest Home cooks and professionals compete side by side at UCLA. Enjoy a slice, enter a pie or simply cheer on your favorite competitor. kcrw.com

19 Curious George: Let’s Get Curious! An exhibit that will lead kids on a fun, educational and interactive math, science and engineering-based adventure. Through January 3. discoverycube.org

13 Eat, Drink and Be Merry: Food in the Middle Ages and Renaissance Illuminated manuscripts offer images of cooking techniques, dishes, grand feasts and diners. Through January 3. getty.edu

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, VENTURA BLVD

WHERE WE LIVE | AS YOU WERE

A Gem Among Us Discover the beauty and rich history of Orcutt Ranch Park WRITTEN BY

JUDITH A. STOCK

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF

CSUN OVIATT LIBRARY

O DIAL IN A large sundial in the front courtyard of the main house is inscripted with “Carpe Diem,” which means “Seize the Day.”

VENTURA BLVD, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

n a warm, lazy fall afternoon, exploring the hidden treasures of the San Fernando Valley can be an unexpected delight. Orcutt Ranch Park is one of them. No crowds, no lines, no parking hassles. Instead, eye-pleasing landscapes, flowers in full bloom and charming paths that meander along a creekbed blanketed by tree canopies. The majestic trees alone are worth a visit. A must-see relic is the prominent 700-year-old oak tree that stands near the back of the park. There are also rattan and sago palms, Southern and Purple Lily magnolias, box elder and dogwood trees. Orcutt Ranch is also home to more than 500 rose bushes, with blooms that last into fall in a kaleidoscope of colors. The stately adobe structure on the property was built in 1926 by William Warren Orcutt, an early oil magnate, and his wife, Mary Logan Orcutt. Rancho Sombra del Roble, as it was originally called, means “ranch in the shade of the oak.” The architect, L.G. Knipe, is known for designing

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY JUDITH A. STOCK

AS YOU WERE | WHERE WE LIVE

some of the original structures on the campus of Arizona State University at Tempe. “The ranch originally consisted of 210 acres of cattle and citrus orchards,” says Rose Watson with the Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks. “Originally Orcutt Ranch comprised much of what is today Canoga Park.” In 1965 the property was designated a historical monument by the Los Angeles Cultural Heritage Commission, and the city acquired it a year later. Scattered among the trees, citrus groves and flowers are stone statues, brick walkways, grottos, urns, benches and stonewalls. Quiet contemplation is encouraged here with multiple rest areas. A graceful Italian marble group of three muses is the focal point of the pergola overlooking the rose garden, the site of many wedding ceremonies today. It’s not difficult to find details that make Orcutt Ranch Park truly original—from the arrowheads embedded in the brickwork of the main house to a veranda decorated with handmade Mexican tile and Native

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American peace symbols represented by a swastika over the doorways. “When the Orcutt residence was completed, the swastika still retained its traditional meaning of well-being and good fortune; it reflected both the owners’ and the architect’s interest in the architectural styles, crafts and symbols of the American Southwest,” says Rose. “When positioned at the entrances to the home and gardens, the swastika expressed wishes of good fortune to those who entered and is one of the world’s oldest known graphic symbols.” W.W. Orcutt came to California in the early 1900s, eventually becoming vice president of Union Oil Company of California. He is known for his contributions to paleontology, which brought the fossils of the La Brea Tar Pits to the attention of the scientific community. In 1947 Mary Orcutt purchased two acres of peach orchards in Canoga Park to build a community center for the families working on her ranch and the neighboring farms and ranches. It still operates today, known as the Guadalupe Center. l

PLAN A VISIT ORCHARDS Orcutt Ranch opens its orchards to the public two weekends per year. Pick grapefruit in January and oranges in July. TOURS Tours of the house and gardens are conducted the last Sunday of each month (except July and August) from 2 p.m. to closing at 5 p.m. HOURS The park is open seven days a week from dawn to dusk and is available for private parties, weddings and gatherings by permit. Orcutt Ranch Park 23600 Roscoe Blvd., West Hills 818-346-7449, laparks.org

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, VENTURA BLVD

WHERE WE LIVE | SEEN

Divine Debut

Ventura Blvd magazine celebrated the summer (food) issue with a party at The Garland’s new restaurant, The Front Yard. On the spacious outdoor patio, guests enjoyed gourmet bites by Chef Chris Turano as well as signature cocktails. Many also took peeks at the newly renovated mission-style hotel and gardens.

Emmett Miller and Lilly Swardstrom

Sybelle Sprague, Amy Beaulieu, Christiane Atiya, Peter Jeensalute

Michelle Schwartz and Alon Schwartz

VENTURA BLVD, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

PHOTOGRAPHED BY TRACY BRESHEARS

Katie Convoy and Dana Shepard

The Garland’s Scott Elliott and Tatiana Lipson

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Why Choose Berkeley Hall? Berkeley Hall provides an inspiring, nurturing, and empowering environment focused on unlocking each childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s potential. Accomplished master teachers â&#x20AC;&#x201D; nationally recruited Outstanding academics, arts, athletics, experiential learning, and character education programs Small class sizes with individualized instruction A spectacular 66-acre campus nestled in the heart of the Santa Monica mountains, just west of the 405 fwy Strong track record of placing our graduates in the top high schools throughout Los Angeles

Join us for an Open House on Sunday, October 18th or Sunday, November 15th, 1:30-4pm Please RSVP at www.berkeleyhall.org

An Independent Coeducational N-8 Day School 16000 Mulholland Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90049 310.476.6421 admissions@berkeleyhall.org www.berkeleyhall.org

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, VENTURA BLVD

WHERE WE LIVE | SEEN

Byron Mitchell and Laura Mitchell

The Garland’s Scott Elliott and James Crank with Mario Leal-Cruz (center)

Stanley Silver, Karen Silver, Nadia Saad, Jeffrey Saad

Moon Tide Media’s Cherice Tatum, Charley Koones and Danielle Price have fun with California State Senator Robert Hertzberg on the red carpet.

Kathleen Laccinole and Mark Kimbell

VENTURA BLVD, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

Guests enjoyed dishes from The Front Yard

Sal Alessandro, VB’s Dale Tiffany, Kirin Stone, Angelika Baran

Sean Brophy and Alyssa Brophy

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gourmet picnics OUTDOOR DINING MADE EASY AT RALPHS

Whether you are planning a romantic sunset picnic, enjoying one of California’s many outdoor concerts or simply heading to the beach to relax with friends, Ralphs is your outdoor dining solution. Ralphs chefs have hand selected fresh and delicious menus for your Perfect Gourmet Picnic.

Select one of three Perfect Gourmet Picnic options:

Coastal Breeze Beachside Bliss California Gold

Simply call 1-877-894-3707 to order your Perfect Picnic

We’ll help you create the Perfect Gourmet Picnic for your special occasion. It will be ready for you to pick up at your favorite Ralphs deli. A 48-hour lead time is recommended.

or Stop by any Ralphs Deli and build your Gourmet Picnic Select one of our chef’s choice picnics or create your own. With so many delectable goodies you’re sure to have an amazing meal. WE MAKE IT EASY FOR YOU TO ENJOY LIFE IN CALIFORNIA. YOUR PERFECT PICNIC WILL INCLUDE DISPOSABLE PLATES, NAPKINS AND CUTLERY ALL IN A BEACH-READY REUSABLE TOTE BAG.

SEEN | WHERE WE LIVE

Seaside Soiree

Trevor Howells, Alison Crowley, Adrian Koffka

Sarah Beach, Fabio Viviano, Eric Beach

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Karyn Clark, Fabio Viviani, Jeff Rubin

Fabio Viviani of Firenze Osteria in NoHo was the celebrity chef for an oceanfront dinner hosted by Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery.

Fabio Viviani demonstrates for guests.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, VENTURA BLVD

WHERE WE LIVE | SEEN

Ladies Lunch

Paulinda Bambini, who was inspired to found the nonprofit after losing her daughter, Robin, to ovarian cancer

Natalie Mignon and Stacy Baker

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JEN MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY

The Ovarian Cancer Circle hosted its fourth annual “Take A Bite Out of Ovarian Cancer” luncheon at Ruth’s Chris Steak House in Woodland Hills.

The Circle’s Team

Taste Fest

Six hundred people attended the fourth annual Taste of Summer event. More than $95,000 was raised to support the Fulfillment Fund’s mission of making college a reality for students in underresourced communities.

Jeremy Deplane and Bethany Deplane

VENTURA BLVD, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

Participating restaurants included Leona, Valerie Confections and Belcampo Meat Company.

Jeremy Deplane, Chef Nyesha Arrington, Lori Corbin, Chef Valerie Gordon, Sarah Lang

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY TINA CLARA PHOTOGRAPHY

Taste of Summer Leadership Council members with Fulfillment Fund’s Kenny Roger (far left)

SEEN | WHERE WE LIVE

Super Send-Off Employees of Dilbeck Real Estate Studio City gathered at The Garland in NoHo to celebrate the start of the Special Olympic World Games.

A Special Olympics athlete from the Czech Republic gets a high five.

Dilbeck agents with athletes from Cuba

We offer a unique, seven-year learning experience through a rigorous academic curriculum and diverse

offerings of extra-and co-curricular activities. We prepare students for success in college and beyond while fostering in them deep moral values and a commitment to service that is grounded in the Catholic faith.

OPEN HOUSE Sunday, November 15, 2015 Middle School 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. 19800 Devonshire St. Chatsworth, CA 91311 818.363.8127

High School 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. 7500 Chaminade Ave. West Hills, CA 91304 818.347.8300

A Catholic school in the Marianist tradition.

www.chaminade.org A WCEA/WASC accredited school. Sept-Oct 2015.indd 1 ourventurablvd.com

8/26/2015 2:22:25 PM SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, VENTURA BLVD

WHERE WE LIVE | SEEN

Miles of Smiles

Dr. Kathy Shafagh played host to the patients, friends and supporters of her practice, Studio City Orthodontist.

Ray Diaz, Dr. Kathy Shafagh and Don Benjamin

Nikki Bayat, Chloe Beitchman, Chiara Munzi, Claire Arndt

VENTURA BLVD, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

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SEEN | WHERE WE LIVE

Torch Scorch

PHOTOGRAPHED BY RYAN MILLER/CAPTURE IMAGING

Westfield Topanga hosted 500 Special Olympics delegates from Special Olympics programs around the world for a lunch and torch run.

Councilmembers Bob Blumenfield (left) and Mitchell Englander (right) attended the festivities.

Ad-Color.qxp_VenturaBLVD 8/25/15 4:44 PM Page 1

Learn how your child can thrive in a challenging college-prep environment that also pays extraordinary attention to students’ overall growth and well-being. WE INVITE YOU TO VISIT!

OPEN HOUSE EVENTS

ELEMENTARY (K-6) OCT 24

■

JAN 9

SECONDARY (7-12) SEPT 26

■

NOV 7

RSVP

campbellhall.org/admissions Campbell Hall is a community of inquiry committed to academic excellence and to the nurturing of decent, loving, and responsible human beings.

R ESERV E EA R LY, S PACE F I L L S U P !

4533 Laurel Canyon Boulevard, North Hollywood, CA 91607 • (818) 505-5316

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, VENTURA BLVD

WHERE WE LIVE | SEEN

Bodies in Motion

Guests packed at a party at Calabasas Country Club to get a sneak peek at the new, state-of-the-art, 6,000-squarefoot Athletic Center.

Johanna Kearns, guest, Sally Musso, Lisa Malkin, Sharon Bude, Linda Perry

VISIT US

Admission Open Houses in October, November & December

Learn more and register at : www.buckley.org or call 818-461-6719 The Buckley School | 3900 Stansbury Avenue, Sherman Oaks, CA

VENTURA BLVD, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

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SEEN | WHERE WE LIVE

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, VENTURA BLVD

UPCOMING SUMMER EVENTS

e m m u

R AT I CELEB

ONS

BASHI LATE NIGHT HAPPY HOUR Fridays & Saturdays | 9 - 11pm CATALINA KITCHEN WINE TASTING Wednesdays | 5-6pm CATALINA KITCHEN PIZZA MAKING Tuesdays & Sundays | 5-7pm MEN’S LEAGUE PLAY AT THE LINKS August 12 - October 7 Wednesdays | 5-6:30pm MAR'SEL ROSÉ TASTING Sundays in August | 5:30-7:30pm FULL MOON YOGA July 31 & August 29 | 8pm SEASIDE YOGA GATHERING Sunday, September 20 | 4:30pm NELSON’S OKTOBERFEST Saturday, September 26 | 5-9pm CELEBRATION OF FOOD & WINE Saturday, September 26 | 12-8:30pm

Plan your getaway and receive a 4th night free.*

Visit Terranea.com/Celebrate or call 866.802.8000. *Restrictions apply.

2015

r e m m u

R AT CELEB

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EXPERIENCE SUMMER CELEBRATIONS AT TERRANEA RESORT! Featuring room, dining, golf, spa, and outdoor adventure specials all summer long.

THE SAUCE Better Blend The passion-driven approach of two women vintners results in brilliant tastes. Meet them on page 51.

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, VENTURA BLVD

THE SAUCE

PLATING NOW An ahi creation from Kaiju Sushi. Left: Cocina Condesa’s mole chicken and Goldie’s Rotisserie chicken.

New Kids on the Block From inventive sushi by a Hollywood chef to a crispy-skinned rotisserie chicken from a beloved grandma, a trio of Valley debuts. WRITTEN BY DIANE

HAITHMAN

KAIJU SUSHI Attention diners: Gooey sushi rolls with funny names and mayonnaise-y sauces will not be served. Kaiju (it means “sea monster”) has opened in the former Sweetharts location at Woodman and Ventura, replacing sugary treats with fresh, simply elegant sushi. Other signature dishes include crispy rice cakes topped with spicy shrimp or tuna, six varieties of carpaccio, lightly battered rock shrimp and an unexpected (and delicious) lamb chop with truffle mashed potatoes. Friendly Chef Go Nakabayashi (formerly head chef at Hollywood’s Koi) also whips up “Gozen” combinations that include miso soup, an assortment of individual sushi pieces and blue crab and yellowtail hand rolls. It’s sophisticated sushi served without attitude. Yes, you can even order a California roll.

COCINA CONDESA Chef M. Elena Vega, 27, and mixologist Gilbert Marquez, 28, hardly look old enough to drink—but the youthful pair are successfully mixing it up as the culinary forces behind lively—albeit noisy—Cocina Condesa, one of Studio City’s newest gastropubs. Cordon Bleu-trained Elena adds a bold, contemporary twist to family recipes learned working in her grandmother’s kitchen in Mexico (we’re pretty sure Grandma would not have tossed toasted crickets atop a mango salsa). Menu favorites include braised mole chicken, light (though slightly bland) masa crepes and spicy, creamy agua chile with shrimp. Gilbert wants to make you love mescal with his innovative, not-too-sweet cocktails. Don’t miss: Taco Tuesdays starting at 5 p.m. (any two tacos for $5 and $8 for the house margarita).

GOLDIE’S ROTISSERIE You want a chicken? Call Goldie. No, you can’t ring up the late Goldie Stein, but her grandson Dennis Stein, co-owner of Goldie’s Rotisserie, will make sure you feel like she’s still in the neighborhood. With business partner Larry Lorin, Dennis shares Goldie’s Russian-accented recipes including crispy-skinned rotisserie chicken, chicken wings and ribs. Goldie’s also dishes up homey sides including creamed spinach (to die for), potato pancakes and Teddy Roosevelt Baked Beans. You can even order “Thanksgiving all year” for five to 12 diners including a whole turkey, a large side dish and cranberry sauce. A word about Goldie’s ribs: Don’t expect the sweet-smoky flavor of Texas or the South— this Russian-Jewish recipe tastes more like brisket on the bone.

13704 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks 818-990-9939 kaijusushi.com

11616 Ventura Blvd., Studio City 818-579-4264 cocinacondesa.com

4344 Woodman Ave., Sherman Oaks 818-849-5341 goldiesrotisserie.com

VENTURA BLVD,SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

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THE SAUCE

Grape Goddesses Winemaking: 2 Women to Watch WRITTEN BY BONNIE

GRAVES

as it been harder for women to break into the winemaking business? Yes and no. Ladies like the venerable Veuve from Clicquot have been making wine for centuries, although men still dominate the field. But today some women are making big names for themselves in the industry like Bibiana González Rave and Martha Stoumen. Both work with distinct grape varieties and terroir, and—from harvest to bottle—both are carving innovative paths to smashing results.

THE PARTNER Bibiana González Rave There’s an old adage: “If you want to make $1 million in the wine business, all you have to do is invest $10 million.” So what’s an ambitious 31-year-old to do if you don’t have a cool $10 mil but you want to make great juice? Get innovative. Enter Martha Stoumen, co-owner of Living Wines Collective. Rather than bring in pesky investors who often have cash but zero knowledge of winegrowing and making, she and her three male partners are doing it all themselves. Their first release was 2014’s Populis, made in a tiny facility in Orinda, California, where you’re more likely to run into cows than critics. Other labels include

Les Lunes and Ama. Martha and partners are also being innovative by seeking out vineyard treasures like an old-vine, organically farmed chardonnay plot from 1972 … located in the Manton Valley A.V.A. Haven’t heard of the Manton Valley quite yet? Just granted appellation status in August 2014, it’s at the foot of snowy Mount Lassen. Martha is indeed one-to-watch as she and other generation-next winemakers take us to far-flung corners of California with carefully made, affordable wines. Uncork it: Populis red, Carignane, Mendocino, 2014; $24. popthatbottle.com

THE INNOVATOR Martha Stoumen A native Colombian whose winemaking career has spanned four continents, Bibiana González Rave ultimately decided to settle in California, where she met her husband and winemaking partner, Jeff Pisoni. Trained in Bordeaux with a pedigree that includes working at Château Haut-Brion, Bibi has worked harvests around the world and is as fluent in grapes as she is in multiple languages. She currently oversees the winemaking at powerhouse Pahlmeyer while managing consulting services across several brands under the RAVE Vines & Wines mast. She’s also a new mother. Bibi recently launched an exploration of sauvignon blanc under the Shared

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Notes label. For too long, American winemakers have left SB to our cost-conscious Kiwi cousins with only a few truly committed to making it great, e.g., Peter Michael, Merry Edwards and Câpture. Shared Notes is a truly collaborative effort between Bibiana and Jeff. They make two styles of sauvignon blanc from fruit sourced in the Russian River and Sonoma appellations. My favorite, “Les Leçons de Maitres” (the Masters’ Lessons), adds a 20% dollop of Sémillon for one of the most exotic, lush sauvignon blancs I’ve ever tasted from California. Uncork it: Shared Notes, “Les Leçons de Maitres,” Russian River/Sonoma, 2014; $65. sharednoteswine.com

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, VENTURA BLVD

THE SAUCE

From Beef to Book A TV producer embarks on a quest to learn more about what he is eating and buys a whole cow, ultimately writing a book that changes his life. WRITTEN BY LINDA

VENTURA BLVD, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

GRASSO

ne Saturday afternoon, Jared Stone was watching a TV show about food on his prized big screen at his Woodland Hills home. Suddenly, an epiphany: “At that moment, it occurred to me that I knew more about the TV in my living room than I did about the food I eat—the stuff that literally becomes me,” Jared explains. “Rectifying the travesty” was rather unconventional. The Woodland Hills resident visited a steer ranch and bought an entire grass-fed cow. Raised by a family of hunters, Jared did what his family used to do. Learning unique and new dishes, the cooking enthusiast set out to use every part of the animal—head to toe. And he documented the process, in which he learned to “connect with where food comes from,” in his new book, Year of the Cow.

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THE SAUCE

JARED’S FAVORITE MEAT MARKETS A connoisseur on what, locally, makes the cut JIM’S FALLBROOK MARKET I shop there for a lot of my protein needs, especially pork. I love how knowledgeable the staff is. When you’re buying from a top-quality butcher, that knowledge is really what you’re paying for. And it’s worth it. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. I’ve found that butchers appreciate the interest. WHOLE FOODS MARKET I eat almost exclusively grass-fed beef now. Whole Foods carries Hearst Ranch beef, which is another grassfed producer. They don’t always have tremendous variety, but they do dry age in-house, which I really appreciate. Dry aging concentrates the flavor of the beef and tenderizes it.

FULLY STOCKED Author Jared Stone atop the refrigerator in which he stored 420 pounds of meat.

Tongue, in homemade lengua tacos, was shared with friends. Bone marrow was roasted in the oven and smeared on toast and served alongside a parsley and shallot salad. Heart was marinated, cooked on a griddle and served to Jared’s wife on Valentine’s Day. “I thought it’d be thematically appropriate to the holiday. Perhaps it was, but she didn’t find it romantically appropriate. Live and learn,” he chuckles. The steer he bought yielded 420 pounds of beef. “On the ride home from the ranch, the beef filled a Toyota Prius with just enough room left for a passenger, a camera, a bag of nectarines and a frozen chicken,” says Jared. Even though there’s a big price tag up front, Jared says the per-pound price is comparable to what you’d buy ground beef for in a

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VALLARTA Vallarta carries a selection of the offal and variety cuts that might not be found in other shops. Not usually grass fed, but good for finding something out of the ordinary.

supermarket—“only with a whole beef, you get filets, rib eyes and cuts that would otherwise cost much more.” The beef barely fit into a 14.7-cubic-foot chest freezer. “Frozen in seconds, wrapped tightly, treated gingerly and stored in arctic conditions at all times,” the beef lasted the Stone family (he also has a young son) about four years. Something else—unexpected—happened as a result of buying the bovine. Eating highquality beef shed light on all the crap Jared had been eating. He started eating “clean,” running again, got in great shape and was inspired to “make bolder choices and embark on new adventures.” One of them was climbing Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the continental United States.

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It’s a WRAP From voluminous jackets and sweaters to flared pants to deep shades of cabernet, fall’s most intriguing looks.

DYNAMIC DUO Vince grey sweater, $325; Vince stripe pant, $210; Vince purple and burgundy wrap jacket, $795; Jeffrey Campbell studded shoes, $250; ABS stud earrings, $40. All available at Bloomingdales, Westfield Fashion Square, bloomingdales.com. Black South Sea pearl necklace, $1,240, by Monica Columbia Fine Jewelry. Available at Billy’s in Tarzana, billystarzana.com. Vince pink jacket, $675; Vince grey pant, $275; Vince burgundy V-neck sweater, $345; Gucci oxford shoe, $1,100; Chloe handbag, $1,950; Bloomingdales. Pearl and sliced geode necklace, $698; 54 VENTURA BLVD, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 pink watermelon triple earrings, $6,500. Both by Monica Columbia Fine Jewelry; Billy’s.

Get ready to venture into the far corners of your closet, pulling out items you haven’t worn in a decade! This season, fashion’s ‘70s fascination continues but with cleaner lines and a contemporary vibe. It is all about deconstructing the silhouette with keen emphasis on the décolletage. Think loose lapels, knit turtlenecks and pendant necklaces with arresting detail. As you’ll see on the following pages, this fall’s dress code also incorporates fancy, feminine flourishes including sexy cutouts, brocade and fringe. PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE

O’DONNELL MARCUS HAIR AND MAKEUP BY MARYLIN LEE MODELS COURTESY OF L.A. MODELS STYLED BY SHERYL

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, VENTURA BLVD

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a Wrap

DRESSED TO KILL Alice & Olivia evening coat, $1,098; Rag & Bone pant, $225; Stuart Weitzman fringe heels, $475; Van Der Straeten gold statement ring, $310; Alexis Bittar earrings, $255. All available at Neiman Marcus Topanga, neimanmarcus.com

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It’s a Wrap

FULL-BODIED CABERNET Ronny KOBO crop top, $253; Elizabeth & James tulle skirt, $595; Elizabeth & James fur jacket, $1,195; Rag & Bone suede shoes, $495. Monica Columbia Fine Jewelry diamond and geode earrings, $3,379 and oval grey sapphire pendant, $2,852. All available at Billy’s.

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, VENTURA BLVD

It’s a Wrap

LADY IN RED Alexander McQueen dress, $2,385; Eddie Borgo spike bracelet, $350; Stella McCartney fringe handbag, $1,865. All available at Neiman Marcus Topanga. Monica Columbia Fine Jewlery long South Sea pearl necklace, $17,360 and shorter South Sea pearl necklace with white topaz bezel, $3,565; Billy’s.

VENTURA BLVD, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

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Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a Wrap

MOD SQUAD Alice & Olivia multi-color vest, $698; Alice & Olivia suede pant, $998; Nest chunky necklace, $395; Yves Saint Laurent handbag, $1,990. All available at Neiman Marcus Topanga. Navy turtleneck, $298; Bloomingdales.

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, VENTURA BLVD

VENTURA BLVD, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

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In the

RED With a coastal-inspired designer at the helm, an arresting color kicks off the décor of a Sherman Oaks family’s charming abode. WRITTEN BY PAULINE PHOTOGRAPHED BY LU

ADAMEK TAPP

ncino born and raised, Lainie Zuckerman is a Valley girl through and through. Her husband, Jay, hails from Brooklyn and New Jersey, but the pair met and bought their first home here. Before the birth of their two kids, the couple lived briefly in New York but soon returned to the Southern Cali lifestyle they missed.

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, VENTURA BLVD

In the Red

This is my first grownup house. I’ve never felt totally settled before now. ”

HOME CHIC HOME Left: A mixed media piece in the family room adds a pop of color. Above: A TV/playroom with a sectional sofa and fun “pouf” stools. Built-in cabinetry housing desktops is set off by a backsplash of “mod,” floral wallpaper. An unexpected twist: The person who uses the space most often is Jay. “I like it more than anybody else does, so I try to hide and chill out in there because it’s removed from the rest of the house,” he says.

“Cooped up in an 800-square-foot apartment that cost more than a house? No thank you,” recalls Jay. Jay oversees the manufacturing of imported fabric from Southeast Asia, mostly Lycra for swimsuits and workout wear. Lainie is a fulltime homemaker, raising Ethan, 12, and Jenna, 10. The family’s bright, south-of-the-Boulevard home, with its 10-foothigh ceilings, is 4,400 square feet with four bedrooms and five bathrooms. “We also have a sitting room off my bedroom,” Lainie says, jokingly referring to the master bedroom upstairs. Jay continues the jest, “I’m allowed to visit!” When the Zuckermans moved into their spacious home four years ago the structure needed a major remodel. Recalls Jay, “The whole house was dated. We basically ripped everything out and put in all new floors, new windows, kitchen and bathrooms.” Lainie worked closely with interior designer Lara Nesburn of Mangrove Interiors for inspiration and guidance. “She’s a genius. She’s a goddess,” Lainie quips. The duo started from a clean slate—except for one thing. Lainie wanted to keep the raspberry-hued curtains (from the previous owners) in the family room. That proved to be an instrumental starting point. “Knowing those curtains would remain and that Lainie really

VENTURA BLVD, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

liked that color, we just worked from there,” says Lara. “If you look around, when it comes to color palette, everything is an iteration of red, white and blue,” she explains. The overriding theme, beach chic, can be seen in stylish accents such as driftwood table lamps and seascape photography, such as Ocean by Leslie Sokolow, Eden Roc Pool by Slim Aarons and a photo by Claude Guillaumin, Pool #4, of a transparent, pink, plastic tube floating in a swimming pool. Grass cloth on the walls, sisal rugs, fine grass window shades and wicker accents on furniture complete the look. Coastal blues and whites provide a soothing vibe and are complemented by the light grey finish on the wood floors and ceiling beams. The vivid, reddish hue threads its way into the living room as well with an oversized, cranberry-pink flower artwork by Oberto Gili. That photograph then inspired the hot-pink grass fabric walls in the room just off the main entrance. “I was immediately taken with the Oberto Gili piece of art that Lara found. That really was the catalyst for so much of the design direction,” explains Lainie. The central color is again echoed in the chic formal dining room opposite. Flower oil paintings by Christian Brechneff flank the fireplace. There’s an Asian influence in the sideboards, lamps and small ceramic side table stools.

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In the Red

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, VENTURA BLVD

In the Red

Lainie chose tufted white linen for the custom couch and natural tassel trim on draperies. Rustic rattan provides backing on the chairs. Ikat prints and jazzy fabrics predominate, created by designers such as Kathryn Ireland, Lisa Fine and Bennison.

VENTURA BLVD, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

Confides Lainie, “This is my first grown-up house. I’ve never felt totally settled before now. Everywhere else I have lived has never felt right. It was always, ‘The next place will be…’ I got to style and decorate this home just how I like it. I don’t think we’ll ever leave!” l

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In the Red

EAST COAST TRANSPORTS Lara picked up several of the accent pieces in Nantucket, where the designer vacations each year. Purchases include the striking plastic resin beadedrope chandelier (above) in the foyer.

MEET SPOT The couple installed a large window that opens to the outdoor grill area for easy serving from the kitchen. Grey-hued stains were used on the wooden floor and the ceiling beams.

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, VENTURA BLVD

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MOMMY & ME Writer Liz Cackowski and her two daughters

Mothers of REINVENTION Three local women make strides in their aspirations to truly have it all: a full-time career and a full house.Â WRITTEN BY HEATHER

DAVID |

PHOTOGRAPHED BY SIRI

BERTING

ince the beginning of time, moms have always been the ultimate masters of multitasking. You just know prehistoric mamas were skinning wildebeests while bouncing a baby on their hip. For todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s moms, particularly for those with jobs outside the home, it

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is even more of a juggling act. The lofty goal: to find balance with kids, a home, a husband or partner and maybe even a little alone time in between. Here, three locals with successful careers share their journeys and how they are making it work. Their stories are filled with ambition, sacrifice

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Mothers of Reinvention

and even a little laughter along the way. KIDDING AROUND If anyone can find humor in juggling a demanding showbiz career with parenting, it would be comedy writer, producer and actress Liz Cackowski. “I’m married to a comedy guy too, so there’s always something ridiculous that happens with the kids. And we just look at each other and laugh, wondering, ‘How did this happen?’” says Liz. The former Saturday Night Live writer is currently in her second season as scribe and producer of FOX’s comedy series The Last Man On Earth starring fellow SNL alum Will Forte. The daily grind of handling a major network show is fun but tireless work for Liz. The show is based in Chatsworth, a 45-minute drive each way from her Hollywood home. After a long day on set, there are the two real mega-stars in her life eagerly awaiting her return: daughters Hazel, 4½, and June, 2½. “Mondays I love going to work, Tuesdays are pretty good, but Wednesdays and Thursdays are my hardest days. I start to feel guilty, missing the girls. To keep going I have to look at a lot of pictures of them. By Friday I’m good again because I know the weekend is coming,” Liz explains matter-of-factly. The Last Man On Earth is Liz’s first foray back to full-time writing since having Hazel. She did a brief stint writing on NBC’s Up All Night and has taken on a few random acting roles—but nothing that demanded her undivided attention every day of the week. Then two years ago Liz was presented with an offer she couldn’t

This is MY NEW NORMAL, and I’m appreciating every moment of it.” MAGICAL MOMENTS Newscaster Coleen Sullivan makes the most of mornings at home in Studio City with her two sons.

VENTURA BLVD, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

refuse: the chance to return to her comedic roots. She jumped— without hesitation. “I worked with Will Forte at Saturday Night Live. When he called and asked if I would join the show, it was the perfect storm: old SNL friends, a story I thought was really funny, plus we had a consistent nanny for the past year that I trusted and the girls loved. All of the pieces fit, so it seemed like the right time to go back,” she recalls. It took some trial and error, but Liz and her husband, comedy writer and director Akiva Schaffer, have finally come to understand the somewhat simplistic needs of their daughters … and essentially what it takes to make a dual-career family stay connected: pure, undivided attention on weekends. “When I first went back to work, I overbooked our weekend with big plans. Soon enough it just felt like it was too much. Nowadays we’re really playing it by ear, and it’s been working a lot better. They’re the happiest when we’re doing something simple like coloring or playing dress-up,” shares Liz. When Liz has moments of self-doubt, as most working mothers do, she always goes back to what this all means to her. “There’s definitely days when I think I should be home with the girls, picking them up from school. That’s when my head has to say, ‘You’re doing a job that you love and that you’re good at.’ I consider it a privilege.” DIAPERS & DEADLINES “As a working mom, you’re fitting so many things into your day. Every minute is accounted for,” admits newscaster Coleen Sullivan, who lives in Studio City. Five days a week Coleen anchors the evening news on KDOC, an independent TV station run by KABC in Los Angeles. Five months ago she gave birth to her second son, Townsend; she is also mom to 4-year-old Ashford. Husband Justin works at a software startup. The road to success for an on-air TV news career requires years of tireless dedication … hopscotching from station to station, often across the country, to secure bigger and better opportunities. The same can be said for Coleen’s career path. After graduating college in 1999, Coleen reported for stations in Eureka and Palm Springs before moving on to larger cities Sacramento and Dayton, Ohio. After having her first son, her husband was transferred to Santa Barbara, where she ended up taking a few years off to just be mommy. “When I became a stay-at-home mom, I realized it shared similarities with my job in news. There’s lots of planning and scheduling involved— from making meals to running errands. I took my deadline-driven personality and applied it to my newfound domestic diva duties. I have to admit that being at home full-time isn’t easy,” she says. After a few years at home, Coleen came to a personal crossroads. If she was going to get back into her highly competitive field, it was now or never. So when the news director at ABC7 offered her a part-time reporting gig, she took it. About a month later she was promoted to fulltime evening news anchor at KDOC in January 2014. Around lunchtime she heads to the station in Glendale and doesn’t return until after the kids have been tucked into bed. During the week she relies on her husband and a terrific babysitter to care for the kids. “Finding someone to watch my children was the most stressful part for me. I work in news and see what happens to vulnerable creatures every day. I wished for a Mrs. Doubtfire-type, and thankfully I found someone like that,” notes Coleen. Coleen cherishes the mornings with her boys before she has to leave for work. “I take my older son to preschool a little bit later so we can bond. We spend a lot of time outside looking for lizards and playing with our big goofy golden retriever, Beau,” she says.

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INNOVATIVE IDEA Lois Keller and daughters, Gidget and Sunny, in her Studio City kitchen where Nary Dairy was developed

“Some things have to give, and for me it’s exercise. I would love to dedicate time to the gym, but it’s just not realistic. That would make it so I don’t see my little ones, and that’s not worth it. This is my new normal, and I’m appreciating every moment of it.” A TASTE FOR CHANGE Mom of two, Lois Keller is also experiencing something of a “new normal.” The Chicago native produces and sells a raw vegan spread made from cashew nuts called Nary Dairy. She started out selling the product at the Studio City Farmers Market and, in little more than two years, it gained a cult following. “If we missed a day at the market because of a holiday, our customers got mad,” Lois recalls only half joking. Production was recently moved from a small start-up kitchen to an industrial size facility and Lois now only sells the product to retail stores (typically health food-oriented) like the new Naturewell juice bar in Studio City. (It can also be purchased at narydairy.com.) Passion is what drives Lois and her husband and business partner, Allen. Prior to Nary Dairy, they had zero experience in the food industry. Lois, an artist, and Allen, a comedy writer, developed Nary Dairy as a vegetarian option for their family of four. “We’ve always been healthy eaters, but the challenge was finding a plant-based food that was full of protein to give to our kids. Allen was always tinkering in the kitchen, and he came up with this recipe. We started putting it on everything, and soon friends who tried it said, ‘You should really be doing something with this,’” she remembers. At that time Lois kept flexible hours as an artist in order to raise

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Mothers of Reinvention

her daughters: Sunny, 12, and Gidget, 8. “My husband and I tagteamed all of the parenting duties. One of us would always be with the girls. To make ends meet I would do a lot of trade at my daughter’s classes, like teaching art or painting wall murals.” Lois loved every moment at home, but a couple years ago they had to make some hard decisions. “We were struggling to make ends meet. It came to a point when we weren’t sure we were going to make it in LA as an artist and a writer. We took a family trip across the country to think about our next step. For the long car ride we brought our homemade cashew cheese.” While munching on the cheese along Route 66, where as Lois puts it, “a vegetable is a pickle on a hamburger,” the couple started tossing around the idea of starting a business. They came up with the name Nary Dairy and when they got back home kicked off the venture. Before long the product was selling out at the farmers market. Being an entrepreneur for a start-up is labor intensive. Lois works day and night, handling every detail—no matter how small. “For the first time as a mom, I actually had to be places.” Luckily the work demands come at a time when her kids are a bit older and busy with school and extracurricular activities. When Lois can’t be there, she leans on friends and family to help out. Still, as with most working moms, something’s gotta give. “I don’t have any ‘me’ time right now. I’ve been on hiatus from my book club for the last year and a half. My friends are so supportive and tell me they love and miss me but understand.” She adds, “Nary Dairy is special. We have to work as hard as we can now to grab the opportunities we’re lucky enough to have in front of us.” l

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, VENTURA BLVD

GROUND SERVICE Lucy gets the mail at the end of the driveway to her Chatsworth home, Desilu Ranch, circa 1940s. VENTURA BLVD, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

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y c u L

y e l l Va E

IN TH

We loved Lucy and, turns out, she loved us too. The story of how Lucille Ball wound up a Valley girl, reluctantly left for Beverly Hills and, years later, stalked her former home. WRITTEN BY DIANE

HAITHMAN

Lucy in the Valley

ike many of Hollywood’s most glamorous stars, Lucille Ball and husband Desi Arnaz purchased a home in Beverly Hills in the mid-1950s, with a second home in equally glamorous Palm Springs. But not everyone knows that before Beverly Hills, Lucy’s dream house was right here in the San Fernando Valley. Desilu Ranch, as it was called, was a ranch-style home on five acres at the intersection of Devonshire Street and Corbin Avenue in Chatsworth. Although the “Lucy” home in Beverly Hills remains a landmark stop for StarLine Tours, those closest to the comedian recall that her beloved Chatsworth ranchito was the place she would always call home. Just ask Thomas Watson, Lucy’s former publicist and an unofficial Lucy historian. Thomas says that even after the Arnazes moved out, they would still drive by the old homestead (little did subsequent residents know they were being stalked by TV’s most celebrated couple). They were heartbroken when the home was finally demolished in the mid-1970s to make way for subdivision development. So enamored was Lucy of her first house that she paid the next owner, actress Jane Withers, an unexpected visit after selling the home to her. “She said, ‘It was like something out of one of my TV shows,’” Thomas recalls with a chuckle. The story: After selling Desilu Ranch to Jane, a former child star, Lucy discovered she still had a key to the house. Lucy just happened to be in the neighborhood and found that her friend Jane wasn’t home. Well, it seemed a wasted trip not to just open the door and go in. Lucy, Thomas tells it, was pained to find that Jane had placed her furniture in a different arrangement than Lucy had chosen for her own. Jane drove up as the appalled Lucy was standing in her living room. Said Jane, “Lucy, you are welcome here any time, but you really should call first. Uh, can I have my keys?” The Arnazes were successful performers—but hardly the TV superstars of I Love Lucy (1951-1957) that they ultimately became when they purchased the property in 1941. Originally the young couple wanted to live on the other side of the hill, but they couldn’t find anything in their price range. One Sunday, while attending a big barbecue at the Chatsworth home of comedian Jack Oakie, Lucy was in tears over the couple’s fruitless search. The Oakies sent the Arnazes down Devonshire Avenue to an area of Porter Ranch being subdivided into five-acre parcels. Tromping through mud from a recent rain to peer in the windows, Lucy and Desi fell in love with an unfinished white ranch house on one of these parcels. According to Lucy’s posthumously published memoir, Love, Lucy, they scraped together a down payment for the $16, 900 property surrounded by a white picket fence. Lucy describes her frilly decorating style as “early Victorian” meets “bastard American.” She even added some of her own needlepoint work from her childhood days to the love nest. For his part, Desi developed the property with multiple small buildings based on the sprawling style of ranch living of his childhood in Cuba. He built a pool and pool house, game room and an

VENTURA BLVD, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

Lucy describes her frilly

‘early Victorian’ meets ‘bastard American.’ ”

decorating style as

enormous barbecue pit. He also planted groves of lemon and orange trees. The property was always a work in progress, with a suntanned Ricky cruising the grounds on his bulldozer. The Arnaz home was also a haven for animals: dogs, cats and a pig, as well as 300 baby chicks and three roosters acquired as potential dinner but which became pets instead. The Arnazes even had a pet cow, nicknamed the Duchess of Devonshire. In her memoirs, Lucy describes this “large, passionate cow”—as enamored of Desi as the rest of America—crashing through the bedroom window to kiss Desi goodnight. Lucy borrowed another story involving the Duchess for a “Lucy” episode: As she was leaving the house one morning, some workers stopped by and offered to stain the roof shingles with linseed oil and red paint. Lucy agreed and left them to the task. Unfortunately the windows had been left open, and a stiff breeze was blowing that day. “I had just had the whole interior repainted and recarpeted, but when I got home that night the entire color scheme was red. The windowsills, the walls, even the cow!” she recalls in Love, Lucy.

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Lucy in the Valley

Lucy and her bandleader husband, Desi Arnaz, were both in their 20s when they bought the ranch house, which was designed by renowned architect Paul R. Williams.

The couple loved big parties. Desi became known for his spaghetti sauce loaded with Spanish herbs, and he would never serve it until it was perfect. Lucy describes a “Gay ‘90s” party where she sported a fright wig and bloomers and blacked out her front teeth. Along with animals, the Arnazes often took in stray friends. The list included actress June Havoc. As a souvenir from their 1953 movie The Long, Long Trailer, Lucy and Desi kept the actual trailer used in the movie, and June was a frequent trailer guest. The multiple buildings on the property also provided sanctuary for Desi during the couple’s legendary fights. You’ve got to wonder whether neighbors noticed one early morning when an enraged Lucy used a hammer to smash the windows of their station wagon (a popular story recounted numerous times, including by Lucy). But accounts of their tumultuous relationship also include such romantic details as Desi’s surprise 30 th birthday gift to his fauxredheaded bride: a Latin combo leading 40 friends in a “Happy Birthday” serenade by their swimming pool, blanketed with floating white gardenias.

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Tom Watson says the Arnazes would have stayed forever in what Lucy called their “dollhouse” except for two things: Los Angeles traffic and I Love Lucy. Post-war suburban sprawl began to engulf their neighborhood, bringing with it cars—and traffic that made commuting to MGM in Culver City or RKO studios in Hollywood a nightmare. Today’s TV viewers still enjoy in reruns the birth of the fictional Lucy and Ricky Ricardo’s “Little Ricky.” The episode aired January 19, 1953, the same day as the actual birth of Desi Arnaz, Jr. The event sent the show into the rating stratosphere, but the Arnazes also began receiving death threats and kidnapping threats. “Memories of the Lindbergh baby flashed in their heads,” Thomas says. The Arnazes gave up their dream house to move to Beverly Hills, to a home with a wall around it. No commemorative plaque marks the site in Chatsworth. Still, Thomas jokes that the legend lives on in real estate ads. “I saw one about 10 years ago: ‘Lucy and Desi’s Dream House Available Now.’ It was very similar in design but blocks away from where the house was.” l

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, VENTURA BLVD

Women in Business Innovative, creative and forward-thinking. They don’t take “no” as an answer. And the advice “you can’t” is never heeded. On the following pages, meet the Valley’s most distinguished “Women in Business” and hear their compelling stories. Whether broadcasting thoughtful yet unabashed takes on current events, beautifying smiles (and bolstering confidence) or finding clients their dream homes, these women are making an indelible mark with their professions—not to mention inspiring us along the way. WRITTEN BY LAURA WATTS PHOTOGRAPHED BY NICOLE LEONE, SHANE O’DONNELL AND HEIDI RYDER

75 KATE NOLAN Idilluc Design

84 ANITA RICH The Rich Group at Keller Williams

90 DANICA AMSTADT Burke Williams Day Spa

76 DR. KATHY SHAFAGH Studio City Orthodontist

85 JULIE J. SPRENGEL Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center

91 DEBORAH ZARA KOBYLT & LINDA HUFFMAN HAYES Shut Up! Radio/TV

86 ANDREA PARIS-GUTIERREZ Los Angeles Ballet Academy

92 LINDA LEVIE Présence Sherman Oaks

87 DONNA POHLAD dpHUE

93 MICHELLE SCHWARTZ The Agency

88 KARIN “BASIN” MILLER & NANETTE BASIN Coldwell Banker

94 SHOSHANA F. KARPELES Law Office of Shoshana F. Karpeles CA Bar Style, LLC

78 SUSANNA NAGY Keller Williams Realty 80 CLAUDIA KOOCHEK Westmark School 81 JONI DEAKINS LPL Financial 82 MOON TIDE MEDIA

89 DR. LISLE STALEY Berkeley Hall School

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

Women in Business

KATE NOLAN Principal Idilluc Design

818-783-2313 idillucdesign.com

ate Nolan, owner of Idilluc Design, has worked in the field of interior design for the past decade. She earned her undergraduate degree in Art Management from Scripps College and her master’s degree in Interior Architecture from UCLA. Before starting her own firm in 2014, Kate studied under several worldrenowned interior designers in Los Angeles.

FAST FACT

Kate is launching a line of curated lifestyle products with designer Jeremy Irvine. The company, Nolan Irvine, will focus on pillows, tabletop items and accessories.

Tell us something unique about your business.

“At Idilluc, we collaborate with a team of tradesmen and artisans to offer our clients bespoke products and services. We have an eye for residential design based on years of

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

professional experience and a love for the details that define a luxurious space—whether in selecting fixtures for a bathroom remodel or choosing chic new throw pillows to freshen and redefine a living room.”

part of the process—right through to the final unveiling!”

What question do you frequently hear from clients?

“On construction sites, I am often far outnumbered by a team of mostly male contractors, installers and artisans. I celebrate being a woman by balancing the feminine with the practical—often in boots (with heels!), wearing dresses (that have pockets for my tape measurer!), even delivering donuts for team breaks. Even when challenging situations arise, I walk with confidence and have a strong sense of myself both as a professional and as a woman.”

“‘How can I add value to my property?’ We focus on the core values of a home—from the client’s personal taste to the overall architecture and personality of the neighborhood. Professional design increases the resale value for the homeowner.”

What’s most rewarding about your work? “I’ve had a passion for creating beauty and crafted spaces since I was young. I love the rush of being part of a project’s early stages, when everything is possible and a vision begins to come together. Whether it’s balancing luxury with comfort in a young family’s home or crafting a sumptuous vacation getaway, I delight in overseeing each

What are some of the challenges you have encountered being a female in your industry?

What does the future hold for your career? “While I’m excited about launching a product line, I will always continue to help clients craft beautiful homes—the experience and challenge is at the core of what I love about what I do every day.”

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FAST FACT

Dr. Shafagh owns two different dental offices and is a single mother to two young children.

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Women in Business

DR. KATHY SHAFAGH Owner Studio City Orthodontist 12405 Ventura Blvd. Studio City 818.452.5688 OrthodontistStudioCity.Com

r. Kathy Shafagh attended the University of Utah and the University of Texas Dental School in Houston prior to completing a master’s program in dental science and orthodontics at the University of the Pacific. With 20+ years of experience in the dental field, she opened her own practice in 2014.

What is the most important factor in being a successful business woman?

“To me, the most important factor in bring a successful business woman is BALANCE. As an owner of two different dental offices, as a single mother to two young children, and as a very adventurous and creative woman, the only way that I strive is by taking one step at a time toward balancing all aspects of my life.”

What inspired you to open a second practice?

“About a year ago I was inspired to open my second dental office in a very friendly and trendy neighborhood of Studio City. I wanted to reinvent the experience of going to an ‘orthodontist’ office. So the plans began, and I enjoyed every moment of that creative process. From designing the office to my new concept of only treating my patients with Invisalign (because it works amazingly) to my very unconventional methods of marketing through social media, there were so many details that I had to work out.”

How has the experience been thus far?

“The journey has been exhilarating, and the outcome has surpassed my own predictions. Every day I work in a beautiful green space that I love. I have an amazing staff who are creative, nice and fun but still very efficient, and patients who are happy and grateful.”

What made you realize you needed to balance your life?

“About five months ago my kids reminded me of the most important thing that I was ignoring: BALANCE. They reminded me that the second office was my idea not theirs, but it has taken me away from them. It was pointed out that it has been hard for me to stay present and enjoy them as blessings that they are. They also mentioned

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that this makes them both sad and mad.”

How did you adapt to make your personal and professional life more balanced?

“I did what works for my family. I planned a big, adventurous trip. That’s just my way of shifting the energy. Nothing like a place with no WiFi and crazy adventures to bring the family back together. Nothing like love to put life in perspective and keep you balanced. As with almost all the other problems in life, the solutions are within us. We just need to quiet our minds, so we can hear the answers.”

How would your patients describe you?

“I think the most common adjectives that I hear or have read on our Yelp reviews are ‘real’ and ‘honest.’ I feel very strongly about evaluating each patient based on their individual dental but mostly emotional needs and give them my honest opinions. We live in a time that there is a lot of emphasis on physical appearances and an unattractive smile can be detrimental to a kid’s social life or a young actor’s future job projects. Not to mention all the moms like myself that have spent all their time and money on their kids so far, and all of a sudden are feeling empowered to take care of themselves. Everybody has different incentives, lifestyles, work schedules and different goals to achieve. I think my abilities of being a good listener and keeping things real and honest allow me to evaluate every case and recommend what works best for every situation. I try to be flexible with the details of appointments, payments and procedures to a degree that it won’t affect the integrity of my services, but it will enhance patient’s experience in the real world.”

What is most rewarding about your work?

“Getting to know new people and families, listening to their stories, offering them solutions and options that they do not even know about. My experience with Invisalign has allowed me to treat very complicated cases in both adults and teenagers while avoiding the hassles of wearing braces. It makes me feel so good to see the twinkle in a teenager’s eyes when I tell them that their overbite or openbite will not require braces or a head gear and it can be treated in a shorter time with Invisalign only.”

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Women in Business SUSANNA NAGY Realtor® Keller Williams Realty 4061 Laurel Canyon Blvd. Studio City 818-481-1602 Best-LA-RealEstate.com

pecializing in residential real estate, Susanna Nagy sits on the Leadership Committee at Keller Williams, where she is also the current chairperson of the Keller Williams Studio City charitable foundation. She is a Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist and member of the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing.

What is your secret to being a leading Realtor?

“First and foremost, I am a true advocate for my clients. If I believe a home is not the right fit or the right value for my clients, I will let them know. The goal is not to find a home; rather it is to find the perfect home. Every buyer has a special home waiting for them, and every home for sale has a perfect buyer. My job is to leverage my local knowledge and extensive network to help make that match and then apply my real estate expertise and negotiation skills to obtain the best value for my clients.”

How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?

“I limit the number of clients that I work with at any one time. To truly find a client the best home or sell a client’s home for maximum value takes a deep commitment and partnership. It is paramount for me to really get to know and understand my clients, their values and priorities. As a true advocate for my clients, I am personally involved in every element of the transaction and available for my clients 24 hours a day.”

When did you move to this area?

“In 2001 I visited Los Angeles and immediately fell in love with the California lifestyle. Within six months I moved here permanently.”

Tell us about your family.

“I have three brothers who recently moved from Hungary to England. They came to the United States for the first time last year, and I introduced them to our great state in one ‘epic’ 10-day California road trip.”

What are some of the challenges you have encountered being a female in your industry?

“While women are very well represented in the Realtor ranks, a woman can still sometimes be seen as easier to negotiate with when it comes to contractors, inspectors and purchase price discussions. To me, the key to effectively negotiating for my clients is being a subject matter expert. Whether it is negotiating the purchase price, a counter offer or a major repair item, when you can effectively bring your experience and expertise to the table, you are in the strongest possible position.”

How would your clients describe you?

“Passionate, honest, hardworking and knowledgeable are themes that come up over and over again in my online reviews. My work ethic comes from the fact that I truly love my job, and as an immigrant from Hungary I appreciate and do not take lightly the opportunity I was given to participate in the American Dream.”

What concern do you frequently hear from clients?

Why does your industry appeal to you?

What do you like to do for fun, when you’re not at work?

What’s most rewarding about your work?

“Clients are always concerned about value—whether in a home purchase or home sale. The market is moving quickly, and mistakes can be costly. As an expert, I help my clients ensure they maximize value by making smart decisions based on accurate and relevant information.”

“I really enjoy the outdoor lifestyle and take full advantage of our beautiful Los Angeles climate. My favorite ways to unwind include hiking on many of the great local trails along the Mulholland Corridor, sitting outside at the Getty or enjoying a concert at the Hollywood Bowl. I was fortunate to be rinkside at game 7 when the Los Angeles Kings won the Stanley Cup, and I am now a huge hockey fan.”

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“There are not many businesses where a successful transaction is so important and often literally lifechanging. Buying or selling a home is such a significant event, and to be an integral part of this process carries tremendous responsibility but also great personal satisfaction.” “There is no greater reward than seeing the smiles and excitement when you give the keys to your clients and they walk into their new home for the first time.”

How do you give back to your community?

“Since real estate is both my career and passion, I am actively involved in several organizations that help provide both temporary and permanent housing for those in need of a place to call home.”

Photographed by JOHN SUTTON

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FAST FACT

Susanna grew up on a farm in a rural area of Hungary and then moved to Budapest, where she got her start in real estate.

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Women in Business

CLAUDIA KOOCHEK Head of School Westmark School 5461 Louise Avenue Encino 818-986-5045 westmarkschool.org

laudia Koochek, an internationallyrenowned educator in the world of “LD” (Learning Disabilities), brought her passion of more than 30 years with her when she recently moved from Northern California to Los Angeles to become Westmark School’s new Head of School. She is charged with leading the school’s mission: providing a college preparatory curriculum with individualized instruction for students in grades 2–12 with language-based learning differences.

What brought you to Westmark? How is Westmark different from the competition?

“The most compelling factor that drew me to Westmark was the inclusion of the Upper School. Working with students to help them reach their highest potential has been my passion from an early age, so I am excited to work with our students through their high school years, preparing them for college and for life. Westmark’s key signature programs really differentiate us from other LD schools. Our college preparatory curriculum encourages students

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at every grade level to discover their strengths, passions and affinities. Assistive and educational technologies allow our students to access the curriculum. Our experiential and service learning programs combined with competitive athletics and arts programs offer diverse opportunities for enrichment.”

FAST FACT

As a teen growing up in El Salvador, Claudia saw a television commercial about the Special Olympics and immediately became a volunteer for the organization. After graduating high school, she was an assistant teacher at a school for students with multiple handicaps.

Tell us about learning differences.

“I would love to help shed light on some of the myths surrounding learning differences, specifically dyslexia. Dyslexia is NOT a visual problem, a sign of laziness, or of low intelligence; it is

neurological in origin and affects the way the brain processes written and spoken language. Students with dyslexia can perform well in school and succeed. I firmly believe ALL kids can learn, all kids learn differently and all kids can learn to use their minds well.”

How do you advise students to achieve and maintain success?

“It is paramount to create an engaging, supportive and innovative learning environment, where each student can feel valued and respected. We also educate parents about their child’s academic and emotional journey, and encourage students to ‘own’ their learning differences, to push past old limits and reach for success.”

What’s most rewarding about your work?

“Once students arrive at Westmark, the proverbial lightbulb goes off. That is the most rewarding part of our work—to watch students realize they can be successful and are valued, can access curriculum, find their strengths and passions, and advocate for themselves.”

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Women in Business

PL Financial is an independent broker-dealer,* a top Registered Investment Advisor custodian and a leading independent consultant to retirement plans. A financial advisor with the firm, Joni Deakins provides clients with unbiased, straightforward financial guidance for retirement accounts, investments in the market, professional asset management and insurance protection.

How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?

“The relationships I build with my clients are a major factor in our mutual success. LPL Financial is the largest independent broker in the country.* This allows me to provide my clients with access to an extraordinary array of financial choices that include virtually all of the top service and product providers available. My client receives the benefit of my very best advice for her unique situation as well as access to some of the best companies and financial vehicles the market has to offer.”

FAST FACT

Joni is married to her business partner, Mark Deakins, has three sons and is actively involved In Shane’s Inspiration, Children’s Hospital LA and Notre Dame High School.

How do you advise your clients to achieve and maintain success?

“I believe that the better educated my clients are about their own financial situations, the stronger their position to make informed decisions about what to do with their money. Understanding how a particular investment or financial vehicle works and how to maximize the amount of work your money does for you is key to financial success. In this area, as in many others, I believe knowledge truly is power.”

Why does your industry appeal to you?

JONI DEAKINS Financial Advisor LPL Financial

15760 Ventura Blvd., Suite 700 Encino 818-995-9492 joni.deakins@lpl.com lplfinancial.lpl.com

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“I love what I do. My experiences have taught me that I can make a significant difference in someone’s life, and that’s really exciting for me. As a woman I find that often when women first come to me, they are overwhelmed—maybe a little intimidated by financial issues, not sure about what to do with their money, how to invest or what their options are. Maybe their husband managed the money their entire marriage or they simply never had the time and/or desire to understand it. Unfortunately, that can all change quite quickly with the loss of a spouse or divorce. Even a change in work or profession may spark a need for financial understanding that wasn’t there before. My job is to make that process and education as stress-free, understandable and successful as possible. My clients definitely know that I am there not just to protect them but to empower them as well.” Disclaimer: Securities and Financial Planning offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC. Insurance products offered through LPL Financial or its licensed affiliates. www.finra.org www.sipc.org *As reported in Financial Planning Magazine, 1996-2015, based on total revenue.

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Women in Business

Top L to R: Savannah Johnson, Hannah Lee, Candice Stockstell, Robin Sanders, Victoria Vande Vegte, Michelle Villas, Danielle Price Middle L to R: Susan Steel, Elena Lacey, Christine Georgiades Bottom L to R: Emily Stewart Baker, Angela Akers, Erika Carrion, Brody, Cherice Tatum Not pictured: Allison Jeackjuntra, Operations Manager; Linda Grasso, Editor-In-Chief, Ventura Blvd magazine; Laura Watts, Copy Editor

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Women in Business

MOON TIDE MEDIA 58 11th Street Hermosa Beach 310-376-7800 moontidemedia.com

oon Tide Media is an LA-based content marketing company. The firm owns and operates a network of digital channels and lifestyle publications (including Ventura Blvd magazine) and helps leading brands, organizations and places use content to engage and motivate their audiences.

How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?

“We’re storytellers, and we’re experts at engaging audiences. We do that with our own magazines and digital media, and we do that for a lot of brands through our advertising and content marketing agency. What really sets us apart is our authentic approach to the content we create. First, we understand the audiences we serve, and then we create content—digital, print, social, film or a combination—that really hits home.”

What would you like potential clients to know about you?

“We are a full-service advertising agency and branded content studio. We create and distribute effective content on behalf of leading brands, and we help them take a strategic, story-driven approach to achieving their marketing and business objectives.”

What do you like to do for fun, when you’re not at work?

“We are athletes, salsa dancers, musicians, live music fans, dedicated parents and fun-loving singles! Sure, we all work really hard, but you should know we love a party as well!”

Tell us a bit about your working style.

“Great media is an intensely collaborative enterprise, and our team works really well together. Everyone has a role to play, and

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we have a lot of respect for each other and what we individually bring to the team. When we work on a particular client’s campaign, we’re all in the mix with thoughts and opinions on how to make the best media for the client’s market.”

How do you build trust with your clients?

“We specialize in crafting bright ideas that deliver real, measurable results. Sometimes these ideas are immediately apparent, while other times it takes a roomful of us (and a few cups of coffee) to brainstorm ‘the perfect marketing campaign.’ The takeaway: We never turn off our creative machines, and we take pride in doing what it takes to keep our clients (whom we also consider friends) satisfied.”

What is most rewarding about your work?

Hannah Lee, Brand Publisher: “I love working with our creative team to produce dynamic content for our clients. The reward is in seeing it develop from a mere idea to a styled, final product.” Robin Sanders, Senior Sales Executive: “I love being a part of a company that celebrates and brings the very best of what our communities have to offer to the public.” Savannah Johnson, Marketing Manager: “Providing businesses with the opportunity to connect with our community in an impactful way.” Elena Lacey, Graphic Designer: “Being a part of such a great community—both within Moon Tide Media and the Valley!” Danielle Price, Digital Producer: “The stories I get to digitally share with our community give me chills daily. It is a privilege to facilitate spreading energy, inspiration and creativity through our social media platforms.” Candice Stockstell, Sales Executive: “What’s most rewarding about my work is having the

flexibility and the time to work with all of my clients on a personal level.” Angela Akers, Creative Director: “The collaboration and team effort allows for a fun working environment.” Michelle Villas, Art Director: “Using my love of typography to bring people’s stories to life.” Susan Steel, Account Executive: “I enjoy working in close collaboration with my clients to help them achieve their marketing goals!” Christine Georgiades, Graphic Designer: “I’m always excited to expand my creative abilities with new design challenges.” Cherice Tatum, Director of Marketing: “Pushing my creativity to new heights with a stellar team genuinely dedicated to our clients.” Laura Watts, Copy Editor: “It’s great to use the power of the word to convey so many fabulous things about this community and its people!” Victoria Vande Vegte, Account Executive: “Getting to spend every day in such a positive work environment and collaborate with our awesome clients to create something meaningful within the community.” Emily Stewart Baker, VP of Branded Media: “I love the creative and collaborative process with clients. Coming up with a solution to their marketing needs is a fun challenge, and seeing it well-executed is even better.” Erika Carrion, Account Executive: “I love building and nurturing client relationships and being a part of an amazing team and work environment is priceless.”

FAST FACT

Moon Tide is a lot more than Ventura Blvd magazine. The company publishes 15 digital and print titles, the majority of which are for leading brands that have hired them as their agency.

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Women in Business

nita Rich is founder and CEO of the Rich Group, and the Luxury Estate Director. The team is multilingual, and Anita has listings in the French Riviera as well as a castle outside of Rome. Clients range from first-time homebuyers to celebrities and multimillion-dollar estates. A licensed broker for the past 34 years, Anita also owns a property management company.

How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?

ANITA RICH President The Rich Group at Keller Williams

4061 Laurel Canyon Blvd. Studio City 818-632-2258 richrealestatela.com

“As a customer satisfaction magnet, we truly listen to what is asked of us. My team of educated, caring agents is diversified, and we can find commonality with our clients. Our professional business approach separates us from the average agent who is solely transactional.”

What would you like potential clients to know about you?

“We get the job done. Hence our tag line: Success is much more than just a name, ‘It’s Rich with Results!’”

How do you advise your clients to achieve and maintain success?

“Honesty and trust. We put all the cards on the table, and build a game plan together. I am the Director of Education as well and understand all that goes into a transaction.”

Tell us something unique about your business.

“80% referrals—a huge compliment and testament to the level of service we provide.”

Tell us a bit about your working style.

“Straightforward. We let our clients know that we are the resource, and THEY are the decision-makers. It is well understood that now we are a team and are truly working together.”

Why does your industry appeal to you?

“It is multi-faceted. I get to meet a ton of people (my favorite pastime). I am trusted with a major life investment, and there is no limit to the earning potential.”

How do you empathize with your customer in order to build his/her trust in you and your business? “Once we let them share and let them feel heard, it follows naturally. It is apparent that we are knowledgeable, caring and trustworthy. The clients understand why we have a proven track record.”

How do you give back to your community?

“I am on the board of directors for WeSpark, a nonprofit Cancer Support Center started by Tom Hanks and Cindy Crawford. This center is simply amazing.”

FAST FACT

English was the third language Anita learned. She also speaks Hungarian, German, French and Spanish.

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Women in Business

JULIE J. SPRENGEL

Chief Executive Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center 501 S. Buena Vista Street Burbank 818-847-5111 providence.org/saintjoseph

rovidence Saint Joseph Medical Center is the second-largest hospital serving the San Fernando and Santa Clarita valleys—founded in 1943 by the Sisters of Providence. Its 2,500 employees, volunteers, Guild members and 600+ physicians are led by Chief Executive Julie Sprengel, who has worked in the health care industry for more than two decades.

FAST FACT

In 2014, Providence offered nearly $205 million in free and discounted medical care for those unable to pay for their health care.

How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?

“In a rapidly changing health care environment, Providence Saint Joseph is dedicated to treating the whole person—body, mind

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and spirit. We are also discovering innovative ways to expand access to care and transform how care is delivered. In addition to providing clinical excellence enhanced by state-of-theart technology and diagnostic capabilities, we are focused on providing a compassionate patient-centered experience, addressing the medical, emotional, social, family and healing needs of every patient, every day.”

How do you handle issues that are unique to the working female?

“It’s challenging to balance running a successful medical center and trying to be a good mom and wife at the same time. I’m fortunate to be blessed with a husband who is supportive and proud of my accomplishments. The toughest part of balancing it all is the ‘mom guilt.’ I am a better mom when I work. Work makes me feel confident and strong. I want my daughter to see and feel she can do anything—that it is possible to have a career and a family. I also want my sons to be a sup-

portive partner to the future women in their lives. They too can do anything in life, as long as they have passion and commitment.”

What are some ways you provide topnotch customer service?

“Providence Saint Joseph caregivers and staff are highly focused on meeting our patients’ needs and providing support and resources during their treatment and recovery, regardless of their health issue. An example of this is our new Thrivorship Program at the Roy & Patricia Disney Family Cancer Center. We provide a free three-month ‘road to wellness’ program for cancer survivors and their caregivers addressing the physical, mental and emotional nourishment needed to foster well-being during their cancer care and survivorship.”

What’s most rewarding about your work? “The interaction with our caregivers, patients and families. We work together as a cohesive team and feel like we’re part of a family.”

S EPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, VENTURA BLVD

Women in Business

ANDREA PARIS-GUTIERREZ President/Artistic Director Los Angeles Ballet Academy 16422 Ventura Blvd. Encino 818-382-2500 laballet.com

How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?

“We have a thriving ballet program and are able to train dancers all the way through high school to graduation. Many of our graduates have gone on to professional careers in dance. Our strong contemporary curriculum offers jazz, contemporary dance, tap and hip hop, which makes us able to train dancers in multiple genres. We also have blossoming adult ballet program where all

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ballet lovers can find camaraderie and excellent instruction with a varied schedule and live pianists for most classes.”

FAST FACT

LABA’s nonprofit arm houses the Los Angeles Youth Ballet Theater and Theatrics Dance Company, which provide performance opportunities and expert coaching for more than 70 dancers ages 8 to 18.

How do you handle issues that are unique to the working female?

“LABA is a child-friendly business. The teachers at LABA receive free tuition for their children, and we try to tailor their schedules to complement their family lives. They are welcome to have their children at work with them. We also support each other

and are friendly outside of work.”

Tell us a bit about your working style.

“I do not enjoy the current trend of pushing young bodies to do things before they are mature enough. I do not believe the ‘Dance Moms’ mentality. LABA nurtures dancers, does not allow them to do things that will harm their growing bodies. I want them to grow up to be strong and healthy dancers as well as happy humans.”

What do you like to do for fun, when you’re not at work?

“My husband and I love to travel. Our son is a lead dancer with the Joffrey Ballet, so we often go to Chicago with our daughter (also a professional dancer) to see him perform. We love to vacation in Mexico where my husband is from, and our dream vacation location is Spain. We also are foodies and support our local restaurants in the Valley.”

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY IKER GUTIERREZ

ndrea Paris-Gutierrez began her ballet training as a young girl in her native New Zealand at her mother’s dance school. She joined the New Zealand School of Dance when she was 15 years old and later joined the Royal New Zealand ballet before moving to Los Angeles. Andrea worked as a professional dancer for 12 years in the U.S. and abroad before starting Los Angeles Ballet Academy (LABA) in 1992.

Women in Business

DONNA POHLAD Founder dpHUE

12324 Ventura Boulevard Studio City 818-358-4082 dpHUE.com

pHUE colorBAR offers an alternative option for hair color. Salon services are available, but the salon’s quality hair color is also available to take home and DIY. Color advisors are available without an appointment to help formulate clients’ custom hair color and teach application techniques. Owner Donna Pohlad started dpHUE in 2011.

How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?

“When I started dpHUE there wasn’t any competition; we were creating a whole new category of hair color! As the industry sees what we are doing and other hair color options pop up, we find it validating that it means this is something women are really looking for. At dpHUE we’re still the only home hair color solution with physical salon locations to meet with you in person and help you decide your perfect hair color, even if you just need a quick root touchup to

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spread out the time between salon visits. We also sell hair color on our website, and we are the only salon that sells our product to go. Our product development comes straight from our customers’ wants and needs.”

What would you like potential clients to know about you?

“I use my own product, and everything is super high quality and easy to use. dpHUE is for real women, whether you’re a stay-at-home mom or business tycoon—you can adapt our offerings to fit your lifestyle.”

What are some ways you provide topnotch customer service?

“As we continue to grow, we keep a smallbusiness attitude and approach to everything. If you send an inquiry to dphue.com, you won’t get an auto-generated email response back. We listen to every customer and respond

personally. The colorists who work in our colorBARs are amazing. They work as a team and train with our creative director, celebrity colorist Justin Anderson, to master their skills.”

FAST FACT

Donna became a grandmother for the first time this year—a grandma who isn’t going gray!

What’s most rewarding about your work?

“Meeting new clients and hearing about their experiences. A person’s hair is a defining characteristic, and when your hair looks good your whole day is better. Whether it is the first time someone has colored their hair or they have been coloring for years, I love to hear their stories and how dpHUE has made their life just a little bit easier.”

S EPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, VENTURA BLVD

Women in Business

arin “Basin” Miller and Nanette Basin are a mother-daughter team of Realtors who are top producers with Coldwell Banker. Nanette, a Valley native, has been a Realtor for 19 years. Karin has been selling homes for more than four decades.

How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?

“We span the generations. Being a highly successful mother-daughter team means we are a combination of many entities. We are negotiators, marketers, salespeople, buyer advocates, consultants—all coordinating together to complete a successful real estate transaction. Our clients get two professionals equally invested in their success. And when people hire us, they get us. Although we have an excellent support staff, we are very hands-on. We take pride in being available 24/7.”

How would your clients describe you?

“We are authentic and dedicated to our clients’ needs. Real estate is our passion. We stay close to our client’s side throughout the entire transaction and want each client to feel like our only one. We are their chief strategist and their tough negotiator. As their trusted advisor, we are drawing from the vast knowledge that we’ve accumulated from years of experience. And when they refer us to their friends and family, we know we’ve made them happy.”

What are some ways you provide top-notch customer service?

“We offer an intimate knowledge of market trends and product competition. Our expertise is in negotiating the best deals for our clients no matter what. As strong listing agents, we find it takes a lot of strategy and experience to get top dollar for each home. We assist homeowners in the pre-listing process to best prepare their home for sale. Through our consultation and staging advice we help maximize the return on their investment. Then we implement a high-end global marketing plan for each property, including the most effective social media and technology.”

How do you empathize with your customer in order to build trust?

“Trust is essential. Our clients are looking for our guidance. They want to feel safe and protected. We listen to them, validate their concerns. Integrity is extremely important. That translates into not over-pricing to get listings and always giving them our honest opinion, even if it ends up helping them decide against buying or selling a home.”

FAST FACT

As a team, Nanette has sold almost 450 homes, while Karin has sold more than double that over her career—mostly in the Valley, along the Ventura Boulevard corridor.

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KARIN “BASIN” MILLER & NANETTE BASIN Realtors Coldwell Banker

12930 Ventura Blvd, Suite 202 Studio City 818-487-5860 (Karin) 818-487-5859 (Nanette) karinbasinmiller.com nanettebasin.com

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Women in Business

DR. LISLE STALEY Head of School Berkeley Hall School 16000 Mulholland Drive Los Angeles 310-476-6421 berkeleyhall.org

B PHOTOGRAPHED BY STEPHANIE BAUER

erkeley Hall School is an independent school for nursery through 8th-grade students. Founded in 1911 and situated on 66 acres of natural beauty in Los Angeles, the school’s mission is “To empower children to fulfill their unlimited, God-given potential as fearless scholars and conscientious citizens.” Dr. Lisle Staley is Head of School at Berkeley Hall.

Describe what you do at Berkeley Hall School.

“A Head of School is really a CEO of a company that happens to be a school. You concern yourself with business, fundraising and facilities, as well as with how to move the school forward educationally, improving teaching and learning. I have an unusual history in education that covers research and

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test design to being a senior vice president of an education company to being an entrepreneur who helped build a small company. Years of classroom teaching and serving as a school district administrator also helped prepare me for the range of my current job.”

FAST FACT

Dr. Staley earned her master’s degree and her PhD in educational psychology from UCLA.

Tell us about the growth mindset at Berkeley Hall School.

“A lot of people think growth mindset is solely about grit and determination. While this is an aspect of it, it’s really more about to what you attribute your successes and failures. We want

to make sure children do not adopt a closed mindset, thinking that when they’re successful at something it has to do with something static about themselves, like their IQ, but rather to adopt a growth mindset, understanding that through determined hard work they can set and meet high goals over time.”

What’s most rewarding about your work?

“The children—watching them come into their own and realize that they are strong and good and bright and able to really reach out and bless others. It’s wonderful to work in a community where everyone wants to adopt a growth mindset and really wants to commit him or herself to making sure each student becomes fully who he or she is meant to be. And it’s incredibly interesting. There is never a dull moment because there are so many moving parts in a job like this.”

S EPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, VENTURA BLVD

Women in Business

urke Williams Day Spa was founded more than 30 years ago and has 10 locations across Northern and Southern California. Their Europeaninspired treatments include massage therapy, body wraps, facials, manicures, pedicures, baths and an array of signature spa services. General manager Danica Amstadt has worked in various roles with Burke Williams for the past decade. She was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and attended the College of Santa Fe. She has a 3-year-old son.

DANICA AMSTADT General Manager Burke Williams Day Spa

The Village at Westfield Topanga Woodland Hills 866-239-6635 burkewilliamsspa.com

Tell us something unique about Burke Williams.

“Burke Williams is a family owned and operated business for the past 30+ years with very strong female leadership roles within all areas of the company and its core executive team. It is a company with a big heart and a commitment to women and families, which distinguishes itself within our field.”

Why does your industry appeal to you?

“The spa industry—and specifically Burke Williams—is a very female-centered business. The majority of our staff members are women, as well as our clientele. Every day I am inspired by the women I meet, the challenges they are overcoming and the victories they are celebrating. If I can play even a small part in helping them gain the creative space, perspective and well-being they are looking for, then I believe that we are empowering women.”

What are some ways you provide top-notch customer service? “At Burke Williams, our journey to excellence is through graciously serving others. This sets the tone for all interactions we have within the spa and beyond. We pride ourselves on our impeccable services, amenities and genuine care for each guest that enters our spa. I invite you to celebrate a special occasion with us to find out how uniquely taken care of you can feel.”

What’s most rewarding about your work?

“I am in constant awe of our staff. We see many people coming into the spa after experiencing great adversity, but when they come out from having received services I can witness a palpable change. Our skilled therapists are truly impacting peoples lives daily. I am humbled by it and grateful for it. At Burke Williams we get to do good everyday and that is not taken lightly.”

FAST FACT

Danica is a former roller derby girl who skated with the LA Derby Dolls for eight years.

VENTURA BLVD, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

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Women in Business

DEBORAH ZARA KOBYLT & LINDA HUFFMAN HAYES Shut Up! Radio/TV Hollywood info@shutradiotv.com shutupradiotv.com

hut Up! Radio/TV is a candid talk show covering current events—from hard news to pop culture—with hosts Deborah Zara Kobylt and Linda Huffman Hayes. The duo met while working as correspondents at CNN Los Angeles. They became fast friends with their similar backgrounds and straight-up approach to journalism. Although the show is geared toward women, it’s not just female-oriented. Zara and Linda say men might learn a few things by tuning in. Shut Up! can be heard on Wednesdays at 1 p.m. on UBN Radio & TV or anytime on demand at ubnradio.com. Besides hosting Shut Up! Radio/TV, Linda is the senior marketing and PR director at Bellwether Enterprise and is the owner of tonichome.com, an online home décor boutique. She worked for years as a television news and entertainment journalist. Deborah was a reporter and anchor in New Jersey before relocating to

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California, where she worked as a reporter for KCAL-9 News, Fox 11 News and CNN.

What do you like to do for fun, when you’re not at work?

“We have a voice and opinion, and this is our platform to be heard, make a difference and not shut up!”

“Both of us enjoy hiking and traveling. Linda also enjoys dining at new local restaurants, while Deborah loves visiting family back East, writing, the beach, volunteering at various charitable organizations and helping out at her kids’ school.”

Tell us about your families.

When did you move to this area?

How did you come up with the name of your show?

“Linda has 13-year old twins who attend Millikan Middle School in the Math Academy and are working actors. They’ve appeared in numerous national commercials and have costarred on a few network TV shows. Deborah is married to John Kobylt of The John and Ken Show on KFI AM 640. They have three active teenage boys. The family enjoys traveling and has been to Africa, Russia and St. Lucia. They also enjoy skiing, boating, kayaking and playing board games.”

“Deborah grew up in New Jersey and Florida. She moved here with her husband for his job on KFI. Linda is from Ohio; she and her kids moved to Sherman Oaks three years ago.”

FAST FACT

Deborah and Linda both have had extensive, successful careers in television news and entertainment.

S EPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, VENTURA BLVD

Women in Business

LINDA LEVIE

Owner Présence Sherman Oaks 13812 Ventura Boulevard Sherman Oaks 818-995-5799 presenceinvitationsandgifts.com

hen Linda Levie took a parttime position at a boutique stationery store 23 years ago, her passion was ignited for working with fine papers and typography. After her daughter was born in 2001, she started a home-based invitation business that grew into Présence, a full-service retail store on the Boulevard. Established in 2010, Présence in Sherman Oaks specializes in custom invitations and beautiful gifts for all occasions.

Tell us something unique about your business.

“Présence is a family. The relationships between us all are based on trust, honesty and mutual respect. I’m so fortunate to be associated with such wonderful people and wonderful people to work with.”

What would you like potential clients to know about you?

“Having received my initial retail training with

VENTURA BLVD, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

Nordstrom, I have carried their philosophy for excellence into my business. When a customer has trusted me with telling their story, I am devoted to fulfilling every detail of their needs: the selection, order and meaning of the words, the materials, budget, timing and etiquette. After all, an invitation is your event’s ‘first impression.’”

FAST FACT

A native Angelino, Linda was raised on the Westside and now resides in Encino.

Who is your target client?

“They want to be listened to carefully. They want a product that truly represents them, an experience that can only be found with a one-on-one relationship and not found in the cyber-market.”

What’s most rewarding about your work? “One of the most rewarding moments at

Présence is when our clients come back and share with us the excitement of their event and are grateful for our participation in fulfilling their dream.”

How do you give back to your community?

“Because I was raised to give back, you can count on my family to step up where there is a need. My daughter and I are part of the National Charity League a mother-daughter philanthropic group. We volunteer at various organizations such as: West Valley Food Pantry, One Generation, Operation Gratitude and Special Olympics.”

Tell us about your family.

“I love my family! I met my husband when I was 8 years old in Sun Valley, Idaho. Our parents were lifelong friends. Married 16 years, we have a daughter who will be a high school freshman this fall, and my stepdaughter graduated from SMU and is embarking on a new career in Los Angeles.”

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Women in Business

MICHELLE SCHWARTZ Founder/Agent The Agency

331 N. Foothill Rd., Suite 100 Beverly Hills 310-800-0408 (cell) | 424-230-3716 (office) TheAgencyRE.com/MichelleSchwartz mschwartz@theagencyre.com

ichelle Schwartz is a founder/ agent at The Agency, a fullservice, luxury real estate brokerage. She sits on the board of the Women of The Agency, a group of peers that empowers women at all levels of the firm to succeed.

multiple offers. My relationships and reputation were later disclosed as the primary reason my clients were selected over the other party. We paid less and had less enticing loan terms, and yet we got it!”

Tell us about the past year in your business.

“Absolutely! Another amazing woman recently tapped us to sell her home in Studio City. I took to my social media and posted a single picture on Instagram before we were officially on the market. I was contacted within less than an hour … and 48 hours later, and still before we hit the MLS, we accepted an over-asking offer!”

“This past year I have received several accolades that humble me to the core. I have sold more than $23 million dollars in real estate since the beginning of 2015 and have had the privilege of working with some the city’s most fascinating women.”

How have your business relationships directly influenced a client?

“After having a poor experience with another agent, KamaIa and Marvin were referred by a previous client to help find them a first home. We found her dream home, which was in

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Do you use social media in your marketing plans?

Give us an example of where you go above and beyond your competition.

“I recently helped Rochelle Adelman sell her hillside bungalow. This house sold with multiple offers at the highest price in the area for a house of this size! Rochelle wrote: ‘Remaining in close communication with me at every

FAST FACT

Michelle was recently nominated as the 2015 Most Innovative Agent by Inman, a prestigious national real estate organization. step (and every hurdle), I was confident my best interests were always at the forefront of Michelle’s thinking, and her negotiation skills were masterful.’”

Have you learned from your clients?

“This year I helped Summer Stearns through the buying and selling process. She has created amazing companies and taught me about the kind of businessperson I want to continue to evolve into. We sold her condo over asking price with multiple offers and found her dream home before it came on the market.” Disclaimer: CA BRE: 01889141

S EPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015, VENTURA BLVD

Women in Business

SHOSHANA F. KARPELES Attorney, CA Bar Exam Tutor Law Office of Shoshana F. Karpeles CA Bar Style, LLC 15456 Ventura Blvd, Suite 201 Sherman Oaks 818-616-3302 lawbeverlyhills.com cabarstyle.com

ttorney Shoshana Karpeles owns two businesses: a law firm specializing in licensing disputes, employment discrimination, women’s rights and education law and a California bar exam tutoring company. She started both businesses around 2010 and has worked in law for 10 years.

How do you distinguish yourself from the competition?

“Regarding my law practice, my areas are very niched, and there are not a lot of practicing attorneys that are passionate about women’s rights and education. I take the time to really know the law in these practice areas and educate my clients on their rights as well and the best options and strategies for their cases as well. I also am selective about the cases I take and only retain a client if I feel I can really help them resolve their matter in their best interest possible. Regarding my bar tutoring company, I defi-

VENTURA BLVD, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

nitely offer a very personalized experience that most of my competition does not. My applicants get preparation in all three areas of the exam and also have a coach that guides them throughout the process and tracks their progress from start to finish. That is invaluable for applicants that get lost in the amount of subject matter tested and have no idea if their application of the law is on the right track.”

What do you like to do for fun, when you’re not at work?

“I love to work out, cook and spend time with my husband and kids. I am also an avid Zumba and yoga lover.”

How do you handle issues that are unique to the working female?

“As a female business owner, and especially a female attorney, I have faced several instances of gender discrimination and male-dominated fields and atmospheres. I hope to keep bringing

awareness to women’s issues and fighting for women and minorities who don’t have a voice of their own.”

What’s most rewarding about your work?

“The satisfaction clients or students gain when I am able to help them achieve the results they are hoping for. Whether I am dealing with a pregnancy discrimination case or a 10th-time bar applicant, the reward is the look on their faces when I have helped them achieve one of their goals or was successful in the outcome of their case.”

FAST FACT

From 2010 to 2013, Shoshana led the wrongful foreclosure department of her father’s law firm, Karpeles and Associates, and gained several big settlements for clients who had been wrongfully foreclosed upon by big banks.

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REAL ESTATE OURVENTURABLVD.COM/REAL-ESTATE

A CONTEMPORARY RETREAT ON A 38,000+ SQUARE FOOT LOT IN PRIME RANCHO ESTATES 4515 Encino Avenue, Encino 4515EncinoAvenue.com | 818.371.0933 Offered at: $3,499,000 Represented by Andrea Korchek, Wish Sotheby’s International Realty Andrea@AndreaKorchek.com For more information see page 98

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4717 Ledge Ave Craig Strong

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4385 Farmdale Ave Kevin Driscoll

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BRENTWOOD

3610 Berry Dr Jason Shokrian

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Rose Fahey & Sarah Kotler 818.262.3532

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$1,200,000 310.710.6204

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4461 Van Noord Ave Alan Taylor

SHERMAN OAKS

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$1,199,000 818.453.9175

PASA D E N A

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

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

NEW LISTING

AVAILABLE

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

Woodbridge Estate, Toluca Lake | Offered at $5,495,000

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

5Bd | 7Ba | 9,500± sf | 1.36± acre lot | WoodbridgeEstate.com

AVAILABLE

NEW LISTING

22 Toluca Estates Dr, Toluca Lake | Offered at $3,750,000

4717 Ledge Ave, Toluca Lake | Offered at $2,375,000

5Bd | 5Ba | 5,508± sf | 21,471± sf lot | 22TolucaEstates.com

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

NEW LISTING

AVAILABLE

11369 Brill Dr, Studio City | Offered at $1,725,000

4056 Hayvenhurst Dr, Encino | Offered at $1,799,000

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

5Bd | 4Ba | 3,458± sf | 16,337± sf lot | 4056Hayvenhurst.com

StrongRealtor.com Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/cstrongrealtor

CRAIG STRONG Director, Aaroe Estates 310.439.3225 StrongRealtor.com

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

the finest representation for the finest properties

5252 AMESTOY | ENCINO 5-STAR RESORT LIVING WWW.AMESTOYVILLA.COM

4555 WHITE OAK | ENCINO GORGEOUS NEW CONSTRUCTION $3, 385,000

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15882 HIGH KNOLL | ENCINO SINGLE-STORY IN PRIME ROYAL OAKS NEW PRICE - $1,795,000

NEW LISTING

4917 EDGERTON ROAD | ENCINO STYLISH NEWER CONSTRUCTION WITH HUGE KITCHEN & MASTER WWW.COSMOPOLITANENCINO.COM

NEW LISTING

4042 DAVANA ROAD | SHERMAN OAKS SUPER CHARMING REMODEL WALKING DISTANCE TO VENTURA BLVD. WWW.4042DAVANA.COM

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

Redefining Real Estate

Thinking of selling or leasing your home? We would love the opportunity to show you how we are different. Please feel free to call us or email us today!

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3923 C A R PEN T ER C OUR T

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REALTOR® | CalBRE Lic #01850113

HELEN HILLO

409 N . C A TA L IN E S T R E E T

11542 D EC EN T E D R I V E

DENNIS CHERNOV

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12431 R Y E ST R EET

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12026 HOF F M A N S T R E E T

KEVIN SILVER

DEVIN WACHTLER

REALTOR® | CalBRE Lic #01888127

REALTOR® | CalBRE Lic #01908088

O P E R AT I O N S M A N A G E R | C a l B R E L i c # 0 1 1 8 4 6 8 9

B R I T TA N Y R OB L E S MARKETING MANAGER

818.432.1524 | info@chernovteam.com Each Oﬃce Independently Owned and Operated. If your proper�� is listed with another Broker, this is not a solicitation. Keller Williams Realt� does not g�arantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size, or other infor�ation concer�ing the condition or feat�res of the proper�� provided by the seller or obtained from public records or other sources and the buyer is advised to independently verif� the accuracy of that infor�ation through personal inspection with appropriate licensed professionals.

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14090 Davana Terrace, Sherman Oaks 5BR+3BA | 3,725 SQ. FT. | 9,373 LOT Listed at: $1,795,000

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15292 Encanto Drive, Sherman Oaks 3BR+3BA | 2,220 SQ. FT. | 6,499 LOT Listed at: $1,049,000

4248 Colbath Avenue, Sherman Oaks 3BR+1BA | 1,517 SQ. FT. | 6,996 LOT Listed at: $1,080,000

4117 Murietta Avenue, Sherman Oaks 2BR+2BA | 1,605 SQ. FT. | 7,184 LOT Listed at: $899,000

15278 Encanto Drive, Sherman Oaks 2BR+1BA | 850 SQ. FT. | 4,611 LOT Listed at: $699,000

South of Ventura 3BR+2BA traditional on a private knoll that could be gated. Charming living room with high beamed ceilings opens to formal dining room. Updated kitchen with breakfast bar. Master with french doors + walk-in. Quaint office. Stylish + updated baths. Magical yard with grass,towering trees, built-in fireplace + great stainless steel BBQ. Picturesque property of almost 14,000 sqft embodies serenity + seclusion.

3825 Ventura Canyon Avenue, Sherman Oaks 3BR+2BA+Office | 13,932 LOT | Listed at $1,249,000

Karin “Basin” Miller

818.487.5860 direct 818.788.1212 Home www.karinbasinmiller.com CalBRE#00292631

nanette basin

818.487.5859 direct 323.394.4298 cell www.nanettebasin.com CalBRE#01210045

©2015 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker® and the Coldwell Banker Logo, Coldwell Banker Previews International® and the Coldwell Banker Previews International Logo, are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Broker does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size or other information concerning the condition or features of property provided by seller or obtained from public records or other sources, and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information through personal inspection and with appropriate professionals.

Oren David Mordkowitz ESTATES DIRECTOR / REALTOR 速

818-933-5866

oren@orenestates.com

Just Listed!

16677 Calneva Drive Encino $2,789,000

4949 Palomar Drive Encino $1,689,000

Sold!

16035 Valleywood Road Sherman Oaks $1,349,000

CalBRE License #01246402

In Escrow! 4915 Rupert Avenue Encino $1,968,000

Sold!

3737 Longridge Avenue Sherman Oaks $6,850,000

Sold!

4510 Charmion Lane Encino $1,289,000

Just Listed! 4520 Libbit Avenue Encino $2,199,000

In Escrow!

4714 Hayvenhurst Avenue Encino $1,799,000

Sold!

17809 Twilight Lane Encino $1,800,000

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

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sold

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

sold

sold over list price

in escrow

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

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#1 Agent at Rodeo Realty San Fernando Valley

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sold

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

3775 Winford Dr., Tarzana $2,725,000 Mulholland Park

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

3833 Hayvenhurst Dr., Encino $2,499.000 www.ColonyWestEncino.com

sold

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

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

sold over list price

www.CarolWolfe.com CalBRE #00477745

4200 Clear Valley Dr., Encino $2,102,000 www.ClearValleyDrive.com

17235 Otsego St., Encino $1,725,000 Amestoy Estates

24304 LITTLE VALLEY RD, HIDDEN HILLS Joanie Louis 818.876.3138 Privately gated, view, 6BD/9BA, chef’s kitchen, library. Guest house, pool, spa & barn. $9,875,000

4415 WOODLEY AVE, ENCINO Shanks/Davis 818.326.2415/818.606.9805 Tuscan Villa with 7BD/6BA on almost an acre of grounds (per assr) with an infinity pool and views. $4,150,000

3830 GOODLAND AVE, STUDIO CITY Matt Epstein 818.789.7408 So. of the Blvd, 5BD/5¼BA. Open kitchen with center island. 4900 sf, 13,250 sf lot (per builder). $2,999,000

6001 PENFIELD AVE, WOODLAND HILLS Shelly Slovin 818.399.4043 Architectural, soaring ceilings, Viking kitch, pool. 4BD/4BA. College Acres. MidCenturyGem.com $2,389,000

25527 HAMILTON CT, CALABASAS Elaine Selko/Warren Selko 818.400.9667 Exquisite 5BD/4½BA with fam room, formal dining, master suite, cntr isle kit, pool/spa, sport ct, pavilion. $1,995,000

3682 GOODLAND AVE, STUDIO CITY Monty Iceman 818.521.2568 Upgraded 1-story Traditional w/ 3BD/2BA, large family room, wood floors, light-filled, vaulted ceilings. $1,295,000

4419 STERN AVE, SHERMAN OAKS Rudy C’Dealva 818.469.0800 Remodeled traditional mid-century home. 3BD/2BA plus office. Wood floors. Light & bright. $899,900

23777 MULHOLLAND HWY, CALABASAS Ken Begey 818.231.9812 2 bedroom, 2 bath. Great Calabasas location at an affordable price! Views. www.Calabasas200.com $179,900

4201 TOPANGA CANYON AVE, WOODLAND HILLS Ken Begey 818.231.9812 2BD/2BA view home, open flr plan. Custom deck. Community pool & club house. 4201Topanga13.com $169,000

Visit us online at bhhscalifornia.com Sign up online for

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

In Focus LA

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

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

3830 Goodland Ave - Studio City - 5Br+5.25Ba in 4,800 SqFt on a 13,250 Lot - South of the blvd amazing new construction with pool, spa and views. $2,999,000 3652 Dixie Canyon Ave

13866 Valley Vista Blvd

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

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

5501 Fulton Ave Sherman Oaks 6Br+5.5Ba in 4,375 SqFt on a 7,402 Lot Chandler Estates. Gated newer construction. All large rooms. Grassy back yard w/ room for a pool. $1,495,000 #KeepingItRealEstate

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

12336 Rye Street Studio City 3Br+2.5Ba in 2,547 SqFt on a 6,985 Lot Cul-De-Sac location. Large private master suite. Pool and grassy front yard. $1,199,000

Andrew Manning

#8 Agent Nationwide for BHHS!

15604 Vandorf Place, Encino, CA 91436 Offered at $2,895,000 / Lease: $12,750/month This 4BR/4.5BA home. Circular drive, foyer, expansive great room, gourmet kitchen & elegant DR & den/media. Master suite w/ elegant master bath & walk-in. Park-like grounds. Outdoor LR/DR, resort-style pool, spa & lawns. Lanai Rd School.

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

SOLD 3559 Green Vista Drive

SOLD

5806 Ranchito Ave

14018 Valley Vista Blvd

16010 ValleyVista Blvd

5007 Vanalden Ave

5333 Baza Ave

SOLD 4123 Stansbury Ave

SOLD 13480 Contour Dr

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Encino

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

Tarzana

Private Mortgage Banking

Success is in the details

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

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

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

LAST WORD

Bowl-ing for Love A first date at the Hollywood Bowl launches a lifetime of love and anniversary visits. Written by Diane Haithman

his year marks my 20 th wedding anniversary with my husband, Alan Feldstein—and his 60 th birthday (yes, I have his permission to reveal this fact). The internet says that a traditional gift for the 20 th anniversary is china, and the modern gift is platinum. (I’m liking the platinum thing better.) The traditional gift for a guy’s 60 th birthday is probably a red BMW convertible—but then it’s inappropriate to have a midlife crisis at 60 unless you really think you’ll live to be 120. Although my mother-in-law always remembers our wedding anniversary (thanks, Jan!), we have a tendency to confuse the date, 8-27-95, with the lock code for our luggage and all those other sign-ons and passwords we tote around in our brains in this digital age. We remember the ones that end in five or zero, but the rest are a blur. However, we do have another anniversary we never forget: our Hollywood Bowl anniversary, August 18. In 1992 I interviewed Alan for a story for the Los Angeles Times. He was at the time a freshly divorced single dad. We went out once after our interview, but due to the complications (reporters should avoid dating sources, and no one should date freshly-divorced single dads), it took a year to get around to anything we could call a real date. As it happens, the following summer, Alan had two tickets to see Tony Bennett at the Bowl—but again, complications. He had recently taken a 39-foot fall in Moreno

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Valley while rock climbing, shattering his left ankle. He was in an air cast up to his thigh. So the deal was that I would drive and Alan would make a picnic. I do remember the meal: broiled chicken breasts, cookies I couldn’t eat because they had nuts (an allergy I would have preferred not be mentioned until date #3) and a fabulous concoction we still call Pasta Feldstein. Although he was on crutches, Alan carried the picnic in a backpack. It worked out well, although I’m guessing if he’d known he’d be in an air cast, Alan would have bought seats that weren’t up quite so high. Since then he and I have tried to make it to the Bowl every year on August 18 no matter what’s playing. Travel and work schedules have sometimes gotten in the way—and there were a few years when we got confused and thought we saw Bennett on the 17 th instead of the 18 th—but we’ve seen some great concerts including the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra (1999), guitarist Arturo Sandoval (2001) and Diana Krall (2007). The random pleasure of picking a concert by date, not by artist, also got us into the habit of saying: “Hey, let’s go to the Bowl” on summer nights and taking what comes. I highly recommend it. This year’s Bowl Anniversary concert was the Los Angeles Philharmonic performing the score from 2001: A Space Odyssey while the 1968 classic was shown on the big screen—the perfect reminder of what a long, strange trip it’s been. l

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