November/December 2020

The

DUNCAN FAMILY

Making beautiful music together

Exceptional Real Estate Professionals Distinguished Realtor Profiles

Celebrate the Season Holiday gift guide

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A NOTE FROM THE

editor

I think many of us are happy that this year is drawing to a close. It pulled the rug out from under us and left us stumbling to catch our balance again. We regrouped, revised the way we do things, and forged on. Many have lost so much, and most have been left feeling bruised and tired of 2020. So many events were cancelled. Businesses closed temporarily and some permanently. We encourage everyone to shop local for the holidays and not just online. Support the businesses in your own backyard. In this issue, to help you stay local with your shopping, we bring you our Holiday Gift Guide filled with great ideas.

We want to see the small businesses stick around for 2021!

There have also been some good things that happened this year. Some of us had babies or grand babies—and there is nothing more pure and precious. We are all looking forward to the holidays and a reason to celebrate with family and friends safely. The holidays will be different—that is for sure. I think we all need to go all-out with our holiday decorating to help us feel the magic of the season. If you have not been to Aldik Home to see their amazing decorations, this is the year to go.

We met our cover family at the Calabasas Pumpkin festival one year, and they stood out to us. We admired this lovely family with six children who seems to have it figured out. Some of us struggle to keep a family running smoothly with two to three children, and they have six under the age of 15! Also, we have exceptional real estate agents in this issue in our annual Real Estate Profiles.

These are the industry leaders and the ones to watch.

Thank you for reaching out during this unusual year and for your support. We wish you a happy and safe holiday season, and hope 2021 brings all of us what we need.

RIP Lexi: 10/5/20 Gayle Barnes Publisher/Editor stylepublishing@gmail.com

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Readers...

From our

Calabasas Style receives many phone calls, emails, Instagram comments, and Facebook posts from our readers.

We would like to share some of them with you.

Just received your magazine and found a feature about my cousin. How cool to see!

— Marla How do I get a subscription? I want to move to the area, so I want to take a look at the real estate in the area.

— Alan CSM: We will give you a call. Please let us know if you are also looking for a real estate agent in the area.

Thank you so much for the article — so very sweet of you!

My mom and dad have heard from a number of local friends who called to say they read the article and loved the photos, especially the vintage ones of them. It put a smile on their faces.

— Lynne Calabasas Style magazine IS a magazine of STYLE! Thank you for recognizing small local businesses!

— Barbara Anna saw the article in the magazine online and was absolutely thrilled! We would love extra copies to share.

— Ellen Very few people get into print, so appearing in the Calabasas Style magazine really is a claim to fame. It is something you can be proud about and a moment to keep.

— Kelly Thanks so much guys. I never told you how much I appreciate your help in establishing me into your neighborhood. I really appreciate all that you’ve done for me. I hope that I’ve been able to be a positive resource for this great community as well.

— Dr. Danny

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PUBLISHER/EDITOR Gayle Barnes CREATIVE DIRECTOR Elissa Linick ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Linda Perry ADVERTISING SALES Kaylie Carafelli EDITORIAL & ACCOUNT COORDINATOR Kaylie Carafelli STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Marvin Steindler CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Steve Geldman Debbie Vaccarello Melissa Westervelt STAFF WRITERS Lori Berezin Irene Marshall Elena Richards CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Marc Cohen Dr. Anna Guanche Dustin Troyan Mark Wendell Maya Williams CALENDAR EDITOR Amanda Ragatz COPY EDITOR Nicole Schubert ACCOUNTING Karen Dafesh SUBSCRIPTIONS Contact stylepublishing@gmail.com ADVERTISING & INFORMATION 310.494.6250 | 805.379.4066 stylepublishing@gmail.com calabasasstyle.com 860 Hampshire Rd., #H Westlake Village, CA 91361

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Table of CONTENTS Auto 122

The Lamborghini Aventador

Community 36 46 52 58 104 112 114

We’re Here for You All in the Family Calabasas Film Festival State of the City Address Our Beloved Pets West Valley Food Pantry

Tribute Honors Two Local Children

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Don’t Drink and Drive

Country Club Life 100

Calabasas Country Club

Cover Feature 48

The Duncan Family

Fashion 76 Styles of the Season 78 Safia at M.Fredric 88 Timeless Gifts That Glitter 22

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Financial

Home Furnishings

68 134

124 126 130

College Planning in a Pandemic Conflicting Signals

Food & Wine 118 120

Toscanova Take Out or Dine In

Health & Beauty 56 72 106 117

Don’t Delay Your Healthcare What’s New in Injectables Ask the Pediatrician Ask the Pharmacist

Holidays 74 75 80 90 96 98

Happy Holitech to You All Cozy Holiday Ideas at Home Holiday Gift Guide Celebrate the Season Aldik Home Holiday Cocktails

WDC Kitchen and Bath Décor

C Style: Homebound for the Holidays

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IDN Hardwood and Carpet

Our Kids 28 102

What I’m Thankful For Virtual Learning

Real Estate 135

Exceptional Real Estate Professionals

162

What’s New in Real Estate

Travel 160

Welcome to Moab

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WHAT I’M

Thankful For “Having a roof ov my head, my amer family, and ge azing tting a great educat ion.” ~ Aliya, 10

and my “Friends, books, ol.” ho incredible sc la, 9 el St ~

t mommy, “Mommy. Withou ive.”

I wouldn’t be al ~ Blake, 9

“Bike rides and Am azon.” ~ Meriel, 7 and Brecon, 11

“Friends and fa mily.”~ Avrick, 15; Colle n, 13; and Maxton, 5

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“My family.” ~ Brody, 9

es n..”” rtiui pa ng yape an e,dmte edl ad “L “Wov g, 33 erlin Age Stn, ~ Bray~de

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LIVING LIFE IN THE NEW NORMAL THE BRIGHT SIDE OF COVID-19 ____________________________________ ____________________________________

By Kaylie Carafelli

When this year started, we did not have any idea how drastically our lives would change. Even when the pandemic hit, we held out hope that our lives would return to normal sooner than later. Despite the circumstances, the people of our community have not let COVID-19 prevent them from enjoying life and pursuing dreams.

Though many large wedding ceremonies were cancelled, couples still got married on their planned dates, finding unique, fun, and creative ways to commemorate their special days. Outdoor wine tasting at local wineries became increasingly popular while basking in gorgeous weather. Some began pursuing old talents and picking up past hobbies to entertain themselves—from playing music and horseback riding to fishing and designing clothes—even turning them into business endeavors. As we continue to lose too many lives at the hands of COVID-19, humankind has gained a clear perspective on what matters most.

For more photos of our events, please visit calabasasstyle.com.

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WEST HILLS HOSPITAL REUNITES WITH LAFD FIREFIGHTERS

____________________________________ ____________________________________ In May 2020, several Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) firefighters sustained injuries after an explosion while responding to a downtown-L.A. fire. Their injuries varied, including

second

and

third-de-

gree burns that required surgery.

Those who were treated at the burn center at West Hills Hospital & Medical Center returned on August 19 for a special event, reuniting with the hospital team that helped them recover. Firefighters shared their experiences from the fire and described their journeys to recovery with the attendees, thanking the medical professionals who treated them and the community for their support. Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, Councilmember John Lee, Councilmember Bob Blumenfield, and West Hills Hospital CEO Mark Miller were present to honor the firefighters’ bravery and celebrate their recoveries.

West Hills Hospital is a full-service acute-care

facility

and

provides

specialized care in a variety of departments, including the Grossman Burn Center. For more information, visit westhillshospital.com.

For more photos of our events, please visit calabasasstyle.com.

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MENU

OUR STORY

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PROVIDERS

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KOROSH BORHANI, D.O. Medical Director, Physician

Style 35 www.skinbio.co | @skinbio.co | 818.222.9797 | 22263 Mulholland Hwy., Calabasas,Calabasas CA 91302

We’re Here for

You!

By Kaylie Carafelli

Without the support of our wonderful clients, Calabasas Style magazine would not be possible. We commend the diligence and dedication of all the small businesses who continue to put their best foot forward, day in and day out, persevering through one of the most challenging times we will see in our lifetime. Their ability to adapt to the ever-changing safety measures, protecting the safety of their employees and clientele alike, is an admirable feat. So, don’t forget to show your support to all of the incredible local retailers, pharmacies, eateries, doctors, and more who always strive to deliver the best service for our community.

Bella Skin Institute

Calabasas Pharmacy

Beaver’s Den

Calabasas Style Magazine M.Fredric

Calabasas Pediatric Wellness Center Calabasas Country Club

Luna Optometry 36

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Patte Gilbert, Heidi Adams, Jeff Biebuyck - Realtors

Maya WIlliams Design Nothing Bundt Cakes

Team Improta-Compass Feinberg & Waller

Courtyard Pharmacy Oaks Christian School

Stonehaus

West Hills Hospital

PTS Furniture

Raiman Rocks

Skin Bio TIFA Chocolate and Gelato

Florentyna’s: A Fine Flower Shop Calabasas Style 37

28TH ANNUAL CARE FOR KIDS GOLF CLASSIC

____________________________________ ____________________________________ Photography By Debie Vaccarello

The 28th Annual Care for Kids Golf Classic, hosted by the Rotary Club of Camarillo, took place on Monday, September 28 at Spanish Hills Country Club. The funds raised will benefit

charities

including

Casa

Pacifica Centers for Children and Families and its programs that serve at-risk foster youth. The Care for Kids Golf Classic is one of Ventura County’s

longest-running

charity

golf

tournaments and has raised significant funds for Casa Pacifica and other local charities.

COVID-19 precautions were taken to keep the 124 golfers safe, including a mask requirement and temperature checks. The modified tournament crowned winners via a Facebook live program emceed by Kathy Long, and the silent auction went online this year since the traditional cocktail hour and sit-down dinner were not warranted due to the

ongoing

pandemic.

Instead,

golfers were sent home with Wood Ranch BBQ gift cards. For more information, visit casapacifica.org.

For more photos of our events, please visit calabasasstyle.com.

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LABOR OF LOVE AND GIVING

BY SAFE PASSAGE

____________________________________ ____________________________________ Photography By Melissa Westervelt

Trish Steele and her team at Safe Passage celebrated the grand opening of their office in Greenwich Village in Thousand Oaks on the evening of Friday, September 4, complete with a lovely outdoor gathering and an official ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Macy’s stores donated 300 dresses in honor of the celebration so that Safe Passage could provide them to any girls—from size-5 girls to size22 women—that missed out on their prom, graduation, birthday, Sweet 16, wedding, or any other special event due to the pandemic. In addition to giving away dresses, organic fresh produce boxes were also available to all in attendance.

Safe Passage’s mission is to break the cycle of domestic abuse by healing and empowering women and children, enabling them to live new, safe, and productive lives. For more information, visit safepassageheals.org.

For more photos of our events, please visit calabasasstyle.com.

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All in the

Family

1

By Kaylie Carafelli

Lately, many of us have been spending more time with our families – bringing us closer together than ever before.

In light of everything happening in the world around us, we rest assured, hearts full of love, feeling incredibly lucky to have a tribe that we can always count on.

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1. The Altmanns 2. The Hartoonians 3. The Gilberts 4. The Eden-Tanakas 5. The Desinds 6. The Mesaros 7. The Tareens 8. Dr. Stone and The Schoffers 9. Barbara Alpert and granddaughters 10. The Lopatas 11. The McGinnis and Genualdos 12. The Rollands

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Making Beautiful

Music Together

By Lori Berezin Photography and cover by Marvin Steindler Many couples these days have transitioned into stay-

up to this creative talent, offering him the chance to

at-home moms and dads. But how many parent six

compose music for the long-running television show

kids under the age of 15? Katie and Rob Duncan man-

Buffy the Vampire Slayer. He has since composed mu-

age to hit all the right notes raising six children amidst

sic for movies and hit series such as S.W.A.T., Timeless,

the rustic backdrop of Monte Nido in Calabasas.

Castle, Terriers, The Unit, and a myriad of others.

This dynamic duo includes Rob, a renowned television

“Buffy was huge for me,” says the four-time Emmy-nom-

and film composer, and mom-extraordinaire Katie,

inated composer and recipient of a Hollywood Music

whose Twitter handle, @mommykatie, and caption,

in Media award and six ASCAP awards. “Everything

“Mom of six, luckiest wife in the world,”

I had been training for was put to the test...I

says it all. Together, they use their su-

lear ned the ropes pretty quickly. It was

perpowers to raise their six amazing kids in their self-proclaimed “Dunkerville.”

“Rob and I run a very large ship

here

at

Dunkerville,”

says Katie. “Our family blended two kids each from former marriages plus two of our own. They were all quite young at first, and we wanted

The

hard work but wonder ful.” Bor n into a long line of musicians and composers, including a great-grandfa-

Duncan Family

everyone to feel equally cherished in our new partnership. So, we combined our last names, Duncan and Hauser, to create The Dunkers, which we’ve used on our holiday cards ever since.”

ther who created music for silent movies, Rob carried on the family’s musical tradition. He collects assorted instruments, such as deconstructed pianos, metal brushes, a hot-rod exhaust pipe, and even a fire extinguisher, to add fresh elements to his scores. He’s written music for such diverse artists as Smashing Pumpkins’ front-man Billy Corgan and the Cincin-

nati Pops. He also composes under his own musical venture, The Rebel Philhar monic, and is represented by the Gor faine/Schwartz Agency.

When not participating in such family traditions as

48

noting how tall each child has grown every year on a

Katie has been singing her entire life and has lent her

height-measuring sign at the annual Calabasas Pump-

delightful vocal talents to her husband’s recordings

kin Festival or helping the youngest ones maneuver

many times. Just recently, she recorded a version of

through virtual preschool and kindergarten, Katie tries

“Ave Maria” that Rob composed, releasing soon. “I love

to mentally reset by working out or enjoying a scary

to sing, and Rob is such an amazing musician,” says Ka-

movie. After Rob relocated from Toronto to Califor nia

tie. “It’s truly an honor to be able to sing to his music!”

two decades ago, the music industry quickly war med

Their most cherished creations are, of course, their

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Continued on p.50

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Making Beautiful

Music Together

growing family, which currently includes six kids and two

n a l y e a r a t A E Wr ig h t M iddle S c h o o l a t h o me . She espe-

cats, sisters Nala and Violet.

c ia lly lo v e s a r t a n d h o p e f u lly c a n c o n t in u e p ursuing her p a s s io n a t A g o u r a H ig h S c h o o l n e x t y e a r.

The couple’s oldest son, Austin (15), plays water polo at Agoura High School. He’s dealing fairly well with distance

T h e c o u p le ’ s t wo y o u n g e s t c h ildre n a re J u lian (5) and

lear ning but would definitely love to retur n. Eldest daugh-

K e n n e dy ( 4 ) . J u lia n s t a r t e d e le me n t a r y s c h o o l t his year

ter Drew (14) recently began her freshman year at Cham-

a t Lu p in H ill, a n d K e n n e dy a t t e n de d pre s c h o ol last year.

inade High School in West Hills. She looks forward to trying

“We c o u ldn ’ t b e h a ppie r wit h t h e wa y t h e y ’ ve handled

out for the tennis team once school sports open up again.

dis t a n c e le a r n in g , ” s a y s K a t ie . “E v e r y o n e is c o mmunica-

She adjusted quite well to distance lear ning but can’t wait

t iv e a n d be y o n d h e lp f u l. ” A lt h o u g h t h e y we re reluctant

to retur n to campus. Son Beau (13) attends 8th grade a t

a t f ir s t t o s t a r t J u lia n in o n lin e kin de r g a r t e n, t hey are

C ha m i nade Mi ddl e Sc h ool i n C h a t sw or t h . A p en c h a n t

v e r y t h a n kf u l t h e y did. T h e 5 y e a r o ld is t hriving and

for basketbal l , h e also l ook s f or w a rd t o p a r t i c i p a t in g in

e n jo y in g h is c la s s e s , a lt h o u g h h e , t o o , lo o ks f orward to

school spo rts as so o n a s t h e y re st a r t . A l e xa n d r ia ( 1 3 )

re t u r n in g t o t h e c la s s ro o m.

finds remo te l ear ni n g c h a l l e n gi n g a s sh e f i n i sh e s h e r f i50

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Katie

“Interestingly

A native Califor nian, Katie grew up in both Norther n Cal-

enough,” notes the proud mama, “when I help Julian with

also

schools

Kennedy

at

home.

ifor nia and Long Beach. After dating Rob for two years,

his school work, Kennedy answers many of his questions!

Katie and her two kids moved to Calabasas to live with him

Ha! It’s sometimes a little hard navigating a toddler while

and his two children. Katie’s daughter Alex had just complet-

making sure your kindergartner pays attention.” She adds,

ed a year of chemotherapy at Long Beach Memorial Hospi-

“All in all, we’re getting through everything just fine, and

tal after battling cancer. “We were really ready for a new

Kennedy’s lear ning quite a bit by association.”

chapter,” explains Katie. “Calabasas is so beautiful. With my early experiences in Northern California and Rob’s Canadi-

P re-pandemi c, th e f a m i l y l ov e d t o t r a v e l t o su c h div e r s e

an background, we truly appreciate this peaceful pocket of

desti nati o n s as S a n t or i n i , G re e c e ; N or t h e r n Ca lif o r n ia ;

Los Angeles County.”

Tu rk s and Cai co s; a n d Toron t o t o v i si t f a m i l y. T h e s e da y s , they en j o y di n i n g c l ose r t o h om e a t suc h f a v o r it e s a s

While composing takes up much of Rob’s time, he and Katie’s

Wood R anch BBQ, L a P a z, a n d Sush i N i sh i . T h e y a ls o lo v e

favorite hits are clearly their six wonder ful children. Happily,

hu nkeri ng do w n at t h e i r C a l a b a sa s c om p oun d.

their romance also remains at the top of the charts. n

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H

H

— Calabasas Film Festival 2020—

Drive-In and Virtual Experience

Photography by Debbie Vaccarello and Gayle Barnes

Sisters and cofounders of the Calabasas Film Festival (CFF), Kelley and Nicole Fries, found fun and creative ways to ensure the show would go on for their 7th annual festival. On September 25, over 150 cars arrived at King Gillette Ranch shortly before dusk for a one-of-a-kind drive-in experience. Attendees enjoyed the world-premiere screening of Honest Thief with Liam Neeson. A live DJ, drive-through photo booth, and food trucks were on site for all to enjoy while observing social-distancing protocols. All guests received goodie bags with

Pathwater, Johnson’s Popcorn, candy, and a luggage tag from lead sponsor Amawaterways.

Tailoring the festival to be COVID-19 compliant, they also created a virtual screening room

through their website for filmgoers to view over 25 short films, documentaries, features, and student films. Voters were also able to cast their ballots for their favorite films online.

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DON’T DELAY YOUR

By Lori Berezin

Healthcare

During our current pandemic, we’ve all learned to go with-

must monitor themselves. If these worsen, contact your doctor.

out many things that enhance our lives. One thing we should

Dr. Shum notes that many non-COVID patients who delay

never do without, however, is healthcare. Unfortunately, due

care risk facing further complications when they finally seek

to fears of catching the coronavirus, many continue to opt

medical attention. The doctor notes, “A bladder infection

out of receiving the medical care they need.

can turn into a kidney infection. Pneumonia can lead to sepsis. A missed heart attack

Dr. Natalie Shum of West Hills Medical Center believes that the

can

majority of people’s fears are unfounded. “Our physician-led

failure and even death…

evolve

into

heart

COVID task force at West Hills Hospital implemented process-

the list goes on.”

es to maintain a safe environment for our patients.” They also have best practices in place to protect staff.

The bottom line is that due to the myriad safe-

No one should ignore certain medical emergencies, such as

ty precautions in place,

shortness of breath or chest pain. The longer a person waits,

your doctor’s office and

the worse the clinical outcome. If you experience severe

local

hospitals

headaches, abdominal pains, or symptoms of a stroke—which

quite

safe

includes unexplained weakness, numbness, or difficulty with

current

speech, vision or balance—call 911 immediately. People with

bigger risk is simply not

chronic conditions, such as high blood pressure or diabetes,

going at all. n

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remain

during

our

pandemic.

The

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Mayor Weintraub's State of the City Address

By Lori Berezin On September 16, Mayor Alicia Weintraub delivered the 23rd

ing opportunities. We continue Woolsey Fire rebuilds, requiring

Annual Calabasas Mayor’s State of the City Address virtually.

all new buildings to include sprinkler systems more resistant to

After thanking city employees, fellow council members, and

wildfires. Calabasas comes even closer to 100% sustainability

residents, she mentioned how peaceful protests on polic-

as codes for new construction elevate standards for solar pow-

ing and race led to our first-ever conversation on race and

er, energy efficiency, and water conservation.

change in coordination with the Mayor’s Youth Council. She then confirmed how the COVID-19 pandemic remains our big-

Home to six of the top 25 companies in the San Fernando Val-

gest challenge, maintaining that “the best days lie ahead.”

ley, Calabasas holds the highest credit rating for a city our size, thanks, in part, to the leadership of Ron Ahlers and the finance

Mayor Weintraub acknowledged how city services remain

department. The mayor praised our community development

intact despite the pandemic. In addition, the city helped fa-

department for working remotely and efficiently since the be-

cilitate rental assistance funded by the Federal CARES Act;

ginning of the pandemic. With the help of the communica-

a $500,000 Open Small Business Grants Program for one-time

tions department, they updated the city’s website to offer per-

emergency grants up to $10,000; and a countywide L.A. Re-

mitting information online. Residents remain better informed

gional COVID-19 Recovery Fund to provide loans and grants

through this new website, as well as the Calabasas TV chan-

to micro-entrepreneurs, small businesses, and nonprofits. The

nel and Calabasas AM radio station. The communications de-

city also works with businesses to help them stay open by

partment also produced videos featuring Las Virgenes Unified

operating outdoors.

School District (LVUSD) teachers and administrators discussing how best to cope with distance learning.

The mayor pointed out the city’s safe community and relationship with Lost Hills Sheriff Station. Through various

Mayor Weintraub wrapped up her address optimistically:

statewide grants, the planning division secured more than

“Tough times don’t last. Working together, Calabasas will con-

$300,000 in grant funding to complete analysis for future hous-

tinue to build a healthy, safe, and secure future for us all.” n

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CONEJO VALLEY CARS AND COFFEE

____________________________________ ____________________________________ Written and photographed

by Steve Geldman

Residents at The Reserve at Thousand Oaks were treated to a private car show on Saturday, August 29. Conejo Valley Cars & Coffee organizers and The Reserve’s management team organized the funfilled event, including a mobile taco bar, refreshments, and live music and an exhibit of nearly 30 classic automobiles. Elizabeth Spencer, executive director of The Reserve, was honored with the Executive Director of the Year award from California Assisted Living Association during a special ceremony. To ensure the safety of attendees, individuals were asked a series of health-related questions, body temperature was taken prior to entering the event, and social distancing and mask-wearing were mandated.

Conejo Valley Cars & Coffee is currently seeking a new permanent location. As state health guidelines allow, Conejo Valley Cars & Coffee will begin meeting on the first and third Saturday of each month. For more information, visit cvcarsandcoffee.com.

For more photos of our events, please visit calabasasstyle.com.

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College Planning in a Pandemic: 5 Questions to Ask Now Whether your child is just beginning the planning process, entering college as a freshman, or a returning student, getting ready to send kids off to college is traditionally an

1. How is the coronavirus changing the college experience?

Although the pandemic should not be the driving force

exciting time for everyone. But with the current pandemic

behind your child’s ultimate choice of a college, the all-

wreaking havoc on well-laid plans for the current academic

around environment of college life is difficult to come by

year, rising tuition, and declining household income for

this school year as colleges struggle with social distancing

many, that excitement has been clouded over by a host of

restrictions that affect both classrooms and dormitories.

questions.

For many students, especially incoming freshmen, the Hence, we offer some guidance to help you decide on the

higher the percentage of online instruction at their choice

best path forward in these unprecedented times and the

of college, the greater the number electing to sit out this

best ways to pay.

school year. In fact, according to higher education market

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research firm Art & Science Group, this could be the biggest

process no later than the early part of your child’s junior year

gap year ever, with roughly one in six high school seniors

of high school.

saying they were making alternative plans for attending for a year is not only acceptable but encouraged by more

4. What is the return on investment for my child’s education?

and more colleges.

One easy way to put your child’s college education into

college this fall. The good news is that deferring admission

2. How do we choose the right school?

perspective is to compare tuition with how much money your child stands to make after graduation, and then factor how

Despite any aspirations you have for your child to attend

many years she or he would need to work to break even on

a particular college — like your father’s Ivy League or your

the investment. This is also a good exercise to help your child

own alma mater — the ultimate goal is an education that

take at least a first cut at whittling down the list of candidate

leads your child to a successful and happy future.

schools and fields of study.

Speaking from decades of experience advising clients

Begin by talking about aspirations and career goals, then

throughout the college planning process, Steve Sherline,

estimate how much money your child can realistically expect to

managing director and head of private wealth management

earn out the gate based on those projected goals. To research

for Union Bank in Southern California, says, “Studies show

salary ranges for specific job roles in particular markets, you

that the most important factors for a successful education

can refer to websites like Glassdoor.com and PayScale.com.

are related to how engaged the student is with professors, projects,

and

“Studies show that post-graduate salaries can vary widely

organizations. It can really pay off to find a school that

mentors,

and

extracurricular

activities

depending on major,” Steve points out, “but not so much on

provides an all-around environment where your child can be

whether the graduate went to an elite private school versus

both motivated and comfortable.”

a public state university.”

This might well include a four-year college, but alternate

5. Should my child help pay for school?

avenues to consider are two-year community colleges along

There are plenty of ways young adults can contribute to

with internships or apprenticeships. This track might be especially

funding their college education. One of the more common

appropriate, for instance, if your child has deferred this school

is student loans, especially now that they are available at

year due to the coronavirus. Alternatively, depending on your

historically low interest rates. You will want to think hard

child’s career plans, a vocational or trade school might be

though about whether your child will be able to realistically

more suited to their needs – and your pocketbook.

absorb and pay off any student debt in post-graduate life or whether your child will be left with an anchor of debt for

“Bottom line,” says Steve, “there’s no advantage in paying

many years to come.

for a four-year education when experience in a particular field might be all that’s required – or even desired.”

3. What is the best way to pay for college if need-based financial aid is off the table?

If your household income does not allow your student to

“I think from a responsibility standpoint, it is really important to have your kids assume some ‘skin in the game’ when it comes to the cost of their college education, especially given the statistics that a third of students won’t even graduate and nearly 60% will take up to six years to earn a bachelor’s degree,” adds Steve.

qualify for need-based financial aid, one of the best ways to

We can help

save early for college is a tax-advantaged account. Some

For more information, please contact Holly Arellano at

of the most popular options for college savings include 529

818.706.4848 or holly.arellano@unionbank.com to learn more

plans, Coverdell savings accounts, and education savings

about how we can help you better understand and evaluate

bond programs. As far as how much to save, you can use this

the many options for a rewarding college education

gauge as a starting point: If you want to cover 50% of your

available to your child.

child’s college costs, try to save at least $2,000 every year in your designated college fund. To cover 100% of college

unionbank.com/private-banking

costs, you would need to double your savings each year.

The foregoing article is intended to provide general Although time consuming, it can be well worthwhile to search

educational information about college planning and is

for scholarships, merit aid, and grants to ease some of the

not considered financial or tax advice from Union Bank.

sticker shock. A great source is the Peterson Guide to Cash

Wills, trusts, foundations and wealth planning strategies

for College, which lists thousands of grants and scholarships

have legal, tax, accounting and other implications. Clients

for students of all types. The key is to start the application

should consult a legal or tax adviser. n Calabasas Style 69

70

Calabasas Style

Calabasas Style 71

Sculpting Your face with a needle

What’s New in Injectables

72

Calabasas Style

By Anna D Guanche MD FAAD

is a very advanced, off-label technique

the skin. Because injections are behind

Board Certified Dermatologist

that should be performed by an experi-

the hairline, there is no visible bruising,

enced injector.

thus minimal to no downtime.

ti-aging. The procedure has minimal

Chin and jawline augmentation—with

Bella Microgold—this is a diffuse shal-

downtime and effectively rejuvenates

HA fillers is something we have been us-

low application of HA over the entire

the appearance of the face. When

ing for years to help restructure the ap-

face via microneedling. The HA is a hu-

done artfully, dermal fillers restore and

pearance of the lower face. For both

mectant, thus leaving the skin looking

enhance facial contours without mak-

men and women, restoration of jawline

plump, smooth, and hydrated. Along

ing them look unnatural. Originally, fill-

contour and improvement of chin pro-

with the HA, neuromodulator (such as

ers were used to soften the nasolabial

jection, thus augmenting a weak chin,

Botox) is introduced via tiny needles

folds, or smile lines. Since then, doctors

are popular procedures.

to the surface of the skin. This reduces

Injectables

have

revolutionized

an-

discovered new ways to safely aug-

tiny fine lines, pores, sweating, and oil

ment/restore many more anatomical

Undereye circles or hollows can be cor-

production, leaving a perfectly smooth

areas. Besides innovations in injection

rected with HA to improve contours and

canvas for makeup.

techniques, completely new types of

rejuvenate tired-looking eyes. This pro-

injectables have recently been FDA ap-

cedure is popular and very effective—

Additional areas for filler include the

proved and will be available soon.

some would say life changing! These

hands to camouflage veins and ten-

circles are not always due to aging and

dons (volume loss), rejuvenation of the

The most commonly used fillers are hya-

can simply be an inherited familial trait.

chest and neck rings with collagen stim-

luronic acid based: Juvederm, Restylane,

This is why people of all ages come to

ulators, buttock volumization or cellulite

Juvederm Voluma, and some newer

Bella Skin Institute for this correction.

dimple filling, and more.

Restylane’s Kysse. Hyaluronic acid (HA)

Cheek augmentation with filler results

We can literally sculpt the face (and

is a popular choice because it is safe. It

in high cheekbones that contour and

body) with a needle. There are new in-

is a highly preserved sequence in our

lift the face. Contrary to our patients’

jectables arriving soon, only to increase

genome and exists naturally between

common concern that it will make their

our

our cells (interstitial fluid), eyeballs,

face look “fatter,” this procedure actu-

and Restylane Kysse are already here.

joints, and skin. Because it is naturally

ally results in a slimmer, more-defined

Qwo ® for reducing cellulite and Renu-

all over our bodies, we are less likely

look. Again, this procedure is popular at

va for stimulating your own body’s fat

to have an allergic reaction to it. Also,

all ages. This procedure takes patients

are coming in early 2021. We are on

HA can be dissolved easily overnight

from “beauty” to “bombshell.”

the forefront of innovation with nonin-

ones such as Teosyal RHA, Versa, and

with an enzyme called hyaluronidase.

Reversability is a big plus for patients.

Teosyal’s

RHA

vasive ways to contour all areas of the Temples: think Cruella DeVille. Hollow

face and body. Stay tuned: The future

temples are a distinct sign of aging. Re-

is bright!

Lip filler is perhaps one of the most

cently, we have added volume there

youth-enhancing

procedures,

armamentarium.

n

when

with HAs and collagen-stimulating inject-

The statements in this article are for general

done artfully. Excessive lip filler is un-

ables such as Sculptra. This is a youth-en-

informational purposes only and do not sub-

sightly and can deter thousands of

hancing procedure that completes the

stitute for individual medical advice.

people from ever trying it. The art is in

look of a corrected aging face.

the product chosen, the technique in placement of the injectable, and the

Earlobes can lose volume and tone with

volume that is used. When done prop-

time. And they start to sag and not hold

erly, one should not be able to tell that

earrings well. Adding HA filler provides

the lips are filled—just that they look

an instant plumpness and rejuvenation

gorgeous! This principle applies to all

to the lobes. They look better and have

dermal filler procedures.

better tone to hold earrings in place.

Liquid rhinoplasty—or nose reshaping

GUANCHELIFT ™ is a 15-minute filler

with filler—has evolved into a true art.

facelift procedure that I invented to re-

Instead of surgery, nose contours can

juvenate the appearance of the neck,

be corrected in minutes. In most cas-

jowls, and lateral brows. Filler is stra-

es, results last 9 months to a year. Pa-

tegically placed off-face behind and

tients are thrilled with their results, and

above the ears (where facelift incisions

ironically, their noses look smaller! This

are hidden) in order to lift and re-drape Calabasas Style 73

Happy

By Marc Cohen

Holitech to You All

This year, the holidays will hold many emotions about what the

If you are used to working out in a gym class filled with fel-

world has had to deal with. It’s a time to reflect on our families

low exercise junkies, take a look at Peloton.

and friends. Hopefully, by the time of publication, we will have

pensive option, but has a 0% interest plan that allows you to

made great medical strides, enabling us to, at long last, spend

pay off equipment monthly. Their bike is around $1900, and

time with our loved ones face to face.

their treadmills start at $2500. The monthly payment plans start

It’s not an inex-

around $50 per month. They connect you to both live and reMany of us have been working from home—a blessing for some

corded classes for an extra fee.

and difficult for others. Some of us that didn’t love technology before changed our minds when we saw how tech could pro-

Since temperatures are finally dropping, walking is also a great

vide a long-distance approach to our workloads.

way to stay in shape. Your smartphone can keep track of many of your health stats: your heartrate, oxygen levels, and

Let’s take a look at things

even your blood pressure.

that can help us work

I use an Apple Watch as it

and enjoy our play.

offers monthly goals that push you to try harder.

If you don’t yet own a

There are many less-ex-

laptop computer, now is

pensive options and ones

the time to get one. Pric-

that offer much of what

es are great, and they do

the Apple Watch does but

more than ever. You can

without all the bells and

teleconference on your

whistles. The Koretrak runs

laptop, connect to your

around $50 and has Blue-

business, and even Zoom

tooth connectivity. The Fit-

with the people you miss

bit has many options and

and haven’t gotten to

is very popular. It even in-

see this year in person.

cludes Amazon’s Alexa.

Microsoft just released its

Let’s not forget some fun.

new Surface Laptop Go.

For $70, you can get the

Prices start at $549.99,

PlayStation Classic, which

which is inexpensive for

is a miniature recreation of

what you get, and it’s very easy to use. It will give you up to

the original PlayStation. It is preloaded with 20 top games, like

13 hours of battery life, weighs just 2.45 pounds, and even in-

Final Fantasy VII, Ridge Racer and Tekken, to name a few.

cludes a 10th-gen i5 Intel core processor. It comes with an instant on and fingerprint power button for one-touch sign-in. If

I hope that you and yours are healthy and safe. And when

you are into looks, it comes in blue, silver, and yes, even gold.

you win the Super Bowl and someone asks where you’re going, let’s

Macs are always more expensive, but they are well designed

hope we can all say: “I’m going to

and very reliable. They start around $1000 and offer a number

Disneyland!”

of configurations.

Happy Holidays!

Since being at home, some of us have adopted a more active workout schedule. I have used a treadmill almost every day

See you on the radio,

since the pandemic started, but today, there are many op-

Marc Cohen

tions for home workouts.

74

Calabasas Style

COZY HOLIDAY IDEAS

at Home

By Maria Solorzano

On December 1st, plan a special breakfast to celebrate the official arrival of the holiday season. Dress up your dining room table with holiday decor and plan a special breakfast menu. You can do powdered donuts, AKA snowballs, or sprinkled holiday donuts and strawberries.

Baking sugar cookies are my favorite, as you can make any shape with cookie cutters, and there are endless ways to decorate them!

Rethink the cheese platter and make a holidaythemed dessert platter using holiday-themed cookies, pretzels, and assorted candies.

Hot cocoa is like a HUG from the inside.

Deck the halls and your loved ones with holiday pajamas!

Set up a cozy holiday hot cocoa/coffee bar station using different toppings like candy canes, marshmallows, chocolate pretzel bars, and chocolate chips.

If you are feeling spicy, you can also add a bottle of Kahlua or Baileys.

I’m a dÊcor lover, working mom of two, and wife who loves decorating, entertaining, and creating beautiful memories for her family and friends. @TheMariaMethod is a labor of love and happiness and my creative passion project. Follow for more holiday inspiration.

Calabasas Style 75

STYLES OF THE SEASON » Leather and lace make for classic statement pieces to dress up your winter wardrobe.

By Kaylie Carafelli

MARQUES' ALMEIDA

RANJANA KHAN

16ARLINGTON

MICHAEL KORS COLLECTION

STELLA MCCARTNEY 76

Calabasas Style

GUCCI

MARCHESSA NOTTE

« FESTIVE FASHION FINDS Calabasas Style picks the perfect holiday ensembles sure to make your season merry and bright.

VACHERON CONSTANTIN

MONSE

SELF-PORTRAIT

BROOKE GREGSON

GOLDSIGN

VERONICA BEARD

DOLCE & GABBANA

Calabasas Style 77

at

By Elena Richards Safia Day – Inspired by Nature. Safia Day has been creating

evate you. And in the right form, it can be everlasting. That’s

fine jewelry since 2001. She started her career at FIDM with an

the idea behind every single piece of jewelry we create.”

interest in costume design before turning her passion to jewelry design. Her initial works were inspired by organic designs

Mardi Fox, owner and jewelry buyer, has proudly carried the

and trends in the Hollywood film industry.

fine jewelry of Safia Day in the California stores for the past 20 years. “Although her designs have evolved and changed, her

Before long‚ Safia Day jewelry was in fine retailers across the

pieces are timeless. She puts together diamonds, emeralds,

country. Using natural material and precious and semi-pre-

rubies, and other gemstones in a way that can be worn casual

cious stones‚ her work is a reflection of her own unique back-

or formal. Safia continues to create the most fabulous pieces

ground. Born of Danish and Indian descent‚ Day considers her

and is one of our most exciting designers.”

jewelry “wearable art” that expresses a woman’s unique style.

“My experience as a stylist enabled me to

Today, Safia works with many celebrity stylists

gain a unique perspective on beauty and

where her jewelry can be seen in print, televi-

what drives the trendsetters. The most impor-

sion, and movies and adorning many of Holly-

tant thing I came away with was the realiza-

wood’s A-list celebrities. n

tion that beauty is a feeling—one that will elSafia Day - Designer

78

Calabasas Style

Calabasas Style 79

CELEBRATE THE SEASON

Holiday Gift Guide •

Take a peek at the great gift ideas we have in store for you.

Share in the spirit of giving.

80

Calabasas Style

Holiday Gift Guide THE KINGDOM The premiere destination for luxury shoes and accessories, carrying new designs straight off the Milan and Paris runways. Whether it’s a beautiful pair of heels, a limited-edition sneaker, or an exclusive handbag, this high-end boutique has something for every fashionista.

The Commons at Calabasas 4719 Commons Way, #G Calabasas 818.912.6990 shopthekingdom.com IG: @shopthekingdom

DÉJAUN JEWELERS The Forevermark Tribute™ Collection celebrates the unique and brilliant woman who wears it. Each diamond jewelry piece can be worn stacked or layered to reflect your individual style and character. When combined, the multiple diamonds pays tribute to the many qualities that make you the incredible woman you are.

The Village at Westfield Topanga 6320 Topanga Cyn. Blvd., #1650 Woodland Hills 818.888.8292

The Oaks Mall 424 W. Hillcrest Dr. Thousand Oaks 805.495.1425 dejaun.com

FEATURE Converse x Comme des Garcons PLAY All-Star Chuck ‘70 features CDG PLAY’s iconic red heart logo in a single heart silhouette in white and black and a multi-heart silhouette in olive green and white.

The Commons at Calabasas 4751 Commons Way, #I Calabasas 818.912.6148 feature.com

Calabasas Style 81

Holiday Gift Guide BONJOUR FÊTE Bonjour, Noël! Winter has arrived at Bonjour Fête and with it a sleigh full of Christmas, Hanukkah, and other holiday gifts, décor, and party goods sure to make this season the merriest!

The Commons at Calabasas 4732 Commons Way, #G Calabasas 818.854.6288 bonjourfete.com IG: @bonjourfete

ELYSEWALKER We could all use something shiny and bright this holiday season. From heritage brands to new and emerging designers, elysewalker has you covered.

Coming soon to The Commons at Calabasas!

The Commons at Calabasas 4719 Commons Way, #J Calabasas Coming soon! elysewalker.com IG: @elysewalker

SHARON SEGAL | NINA SEGAL From the daughters of Fred Segal, Sharon Segal| Nina Segal is Westlake Village’s premier shopping destination. The stylish boutique showcases upto-the-minute fashion, jewelry, and unique gifts.

Find everything you need for the holiday season!

The Promenade at Westlake 160 Promenade Way, #E Westlake Village 805.777.7019 IG: @sharonsegalninasegal

82

Calabasas Style

Holiday Gift Guide M.FREDRIC The best things in life are quilted—like toilet paper, Chanel bags, and yes, this badass bomber. Need we say more? Oh yeah, and its leopard print is pretty cute too, dontcha think? Find it in M.Fredric stores and online. mfredric.com IG: @mfredric

PLANET BEAUTY Make your holidays beautiful with gifts from Planet Beauty! Stock up on sets from brands you love like Voluspa, Molton Brown, Stila, NuFace, and more. Not sure what to get?

Planet Beauty gift cards are always in style.

The Promenade at Westlake 100 Promenade Way, #E Westlake Village 805.494.0944 planetbeauty.com IG: @planetbeautyofficial

LULULEMON When you’re craving a bit of extra coverage, this new long-sleeve training top delivers. Made with Lululemon’s fastest-drying Everlux™ fabric, it’s highly breathable and very workout ready.

The Wunder Train Cropped Long Sleeve is $88.

The Promenade at Westlake 100 Promenade Way, #F Westlake Village 805.494.6439

The Commons at Calabasas 4719 Commons Way, #A Calabasas 818.225.1417 lululemon.com

Calabasas Style 83

Holiday Gift Guide PAPER SOURCE The one-stop shop for sending season’s greetings! Paper Source believes in the magic of creating special memories with your loved ones. Spread joy with beautiful holiday decorations, custom holiday cards, and more.

The Commons at Calabasas 4719 Commons Way, #R Calabasas 818.436.4335 papersource.com IG: @papersource_calabasas

MICHELLE ROZZEN MASSAGE & OILS Agoura Hills-based massage therapist Michelle Rozzen has over 14 years experience providing treatment to top athletes and entertainment business professionals. Michelle’s line of natural massage oils and body care products are luxurious healing gifts for the holidays. michellerozzen.com shopmichellerozzen.com michelle@michellerozzen.com IG: @michellerozzen @shopmichellerozzen

EL MIO BOUTIQUE Chic, comfy, and unique clothing made in the U.S.A., France, and Italy. Jewelry, bags, and accessories from all over to match your style. Private shopping available upon request.

Friendly little shop in the corner.

Inside Regency Salon Suites 23361 Mulholland Dr., #21 Woodland Hills 818.515.6793 IG: @elmioboutique

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Calabasas Style

Holiday Gift Guide THE FLOWER APOTHECARY Psychologist-formulated flower remedies provide natural relief from stress and other negative emotions. They are vibrational remedies, not essential oils which are safe and effective for people and pets of all ages. Try flowers with superpowers today!

Available online and at: theflowerapothecary.com Erewhon Markets Lassen’s Lazy Acres thevitaminshoppe.com IG: @theflowerapothecary

FLORENTYNA’S A FINE FLOWER COMPANY Florentyna’s is committed to excellence in both their flawless execution and the superior quality of their products. Using an elite selection of the world’s most extraordinary fresh flowers and foliage, they create the most sophisticated handselected arrangements for every occasion.

4744 Park Granada Blvd., #1 Calabasas 818.222.2446 florentynasflowers.com IG: @florentynas_flowers

NOTHING BUNDT CAKES Everyone’s favorite for holiday parties, gifting, and dessert needs. Delicious cakes are baked fresh daily and crowned with their signature cream cheese frosting. Choose from nine classic flavors, a seasonal featured flavor, and festive handcrafted holiday designs. Certified kosher .

6524 Platt Ave. West Hills 818.340.2253

215 N. Glendale Ave. Glendale 818.945.9010 nothingbundtcakes.com

Calabasas Style 85

Holiday Gift Guide BEAVER'S DEN ANTIQUES When searching for meaningful, timeless gifts, Beaver’s Den Antiques is the ideal destination. The carefully curated collection of precious treasures are rich with history, heritage, warmth, and character.

Personalized complimentary gift wrapping saves you time and makes the perfect finishing touch.

20969 Ventura Blvd., #20 Woodland Hills 818.881.0690 beaversdenantiques.com IG: @beaversdenantiques

KALMAYA SKIN CARE Give the gift of organic, balanced beauty. The Kalmaya name is derived from the word “calm,” which embodies their clean skincare philosophy.

Every product is formulated to exceed both U.S. and European cosmetic standards. Locally owned and operated, you can find them online.

Available at: kalmaya.com info@kalmaya.com IG: @kalmayacompany

EMIL’S BAKE HOUSE Make your holidays delicious with the finest European cakes and pastries from LA’s premier artisanal bakery. For over 50 years, Emil’s has produced exquisite, authentic deserts made fresh with the finest traditional ingredients imported from France, Switzerland, Germany, and Austria!

5005 Kanan Rd., Agoura Hills 818.532.7663 emilscafe.com IG: @emilsbakehouse

86

Calabasas Style

Holiday Gift Guide CQ NAILS Relax and enjoy a manicure or pedicure in a safe environment at one of the best nail salons in Calabasas. Gift certificates are also available and make a perfect gift for friends and family. Mention Calabasas Style for your 12% discount!

26500 Agoura Rd., #107 Calabasas 818.880.0499 IG: @cqnails

SKIN BIO Searching for a gift but don’t know what to get?

Give the gift of choice with a Skin Bio gift card in any custom amount — wrapped, ready for pick up, or delivered by mail to be redeemed for any service or product in-store.

22263 Mulholland Hwy. Calabasas 818.222.9797 skinbio.co IG: @skinbio.co

KRYSIA RENAU JEWELRY Krysia Renau designs modern gemstone jewelry with an original Calabasas vibe. Inspired by the California lifestyle and infused by breathtaking nature, you’re guaranteed to find the perfect one-of-a-kind pieces and astounding gifts.

Calabasas 818.339.7200 krysiarenau.com IG: @krysiarenaujewelry

Calabasas Style 87

Timeless Gifts that

Glitter

Chopard Happy Hearts Bracelet

Chopard Happy Hearts Pendant

Franck Muller Vanguard Skeleton

John Hardy Classic Chain Bracelet with Diamonds 88

Calabasas Style

BVLGARI Serpenti Tubagas Double Spiral

Breguet Marine Chronograph Tag Heuer Carrera Automatic Chronograph

Casio G-SHOCK

We know how to make the holidays sparkle!

Dejaun Jewelers is proud to be one of the most trusted jewelry stores in

Dejaun Wedding Bands

Southern California. Visit either of our two gorgeous locations, where our team is eager and ready to assist you with all of your jewelry and timepiece needs.

The Village at Westfield Topanga Woodland Hills 818.888.8292

The Oaks Mall Thousand Oaks 805.495.1425 dejaun.com

Dejaun Stacking Bands Calabasas Style 89

Celebrate the Season share in the spirit of giving

By Kaylie Carafelli

It seems as if we blinked and now the 2020 holiday season is

ga and The Oaks Shopping Center in Thousand Oaks. Dejaun’s

upon us, bringing with it the joy of giving—searching from store

commitment to superior quality and personalized customer ser-

to store (or now website to website) for the perfect gifts. There

vice is unparalleled, including Master Goldsmiths and GIA Grad-

are few better ways to spread community spirit than shopping at

uate Gemologists on the premises to serve all of your needs.

local businesses who need our support now more than ever. So,

They offer one of the largest selections of sports, fashion, classic,

we’ve put together a variety of options to help alleviate some of

and high-complication timepieces, along with fine jewelry and

your stress so you can keep family and friends safe, healthy, and

engagement and wedding rings.

merry this holiday season.

With over 35 years in business, M.Fredric continues to be at the Don’t forget November 28 has been designated as Shop Small®

forefront of the chic boutiques in Southern California. Frequent-

Saturday, aiming to focus attention on small businesses through-

ed by celebrities, wardrobe stylists, and sophisticated shoppers,

out the community. Fortunately, we live in an area that provides

M.Fredric is constantly evolving to offer an ever-changing dy-

access to great shops full of enticing gifts for this season and

namic retail environment, with top-notch service, luxe lines that

beyond.

appeal to the trendy fashionista and edgy males, and moms choosing to avoid the cookie-cutter sameness of many chil-

Family-owned and operated, Dejaun Jewelers started in 1985 and has two stores located in The Village at Westfield Topan90

Calabasas Style

dren’s apparel stores.

The Kingdom is the accessory lover’s haven, where you will find

tableware and party decor. They offer an eco-friendly full -ser-

every must-have heel, sneaker, and handbag on the market.

vice balloon bar and balloon arrangement deliveries across Los

The premier destination for luxury shoes and handbags, owners

Angeles. If you want to add some flair to your holidays, you’ll

David Lipp and Jason Salstein bring designs straight off the run-

be blown away by their unique tableware and beautiful holiday

ways of Milan and Paris to their stunning store at The Commons

decorations. Full-service event styling and custom installations

at Calabasas. This high-end boutique promises only the finest

are also available.

goods and most-sophisticated styles, with a list of brands sure to appease the chicest tastes.

Since 1999, elysewalker boutiques have attracted a global following by mixing heritage brands with new and emerging

For the fitness enthusiasts on your list, Lululemon’s locations at

brands, styling it all together seamlessly. Their personalized styl-

The Commons at Calabasas and The Promenade at Westlake

ists connect with you to learn your taste, style preferences, and

offer the latest technical gear for yoga lovers, runners, and every

needs. If you’re unable to make it in, the Memo Program brings

athlete in the pursuit of a good sweat. The luxurious athletic wear

their classic head-to-toe looks straight to your door. Currently in

and accessories have quickly become a cult-favorite wardrobe

Pacific Palisades and Newport Beach, look for The Commons at

staple for men and women alike, with buttery soft, breathable

Calabasas location opening this spring.

fabrics and workout-ready designs.

Discover Sharon Segal | Nina Segal at The Promenade at WestPurveyor of “All Good Things,” Feature is a multi-brand concept

lake Village. The daughters of fashion sensation Fred Segal pres-

that houses luxury designers and top-tier footwear brands. From

ent a contemporary women’s retailer featuring nothing less than

niche labels such as COMME des GARÇONS, Alyx, and Stone Is-

the hottest trends, one-of-a-kind denim, tees, dresses, and cash-

land to staple brands such as Jordan, Nike, and Adidas, Feature

mere, and a jewelry atrium by Nina Segal. Iconic and exclusive

has something for everybody that’s in the know. The vibe and

brands as well as up-and-coming designers make their store the

aesthetic of The Commons at Calabasas shop are driven by a

premier shopping destination for the many stylish women of the

love for fashion, music, and art.

greater Los Angeles area.

One of the newest stores in the area is Bonjour Fête--a mod-

Paper Source is the premier paper store for unique gifts, cards,

ern-day party supply shop that carries a curated selection of

gift wrap, wedding invitations, stationery, crafts, party supplies, Continued on p. 92

Calabasas Style 91

paper, envelopes, and more. The store is full of wonderful holiday

over 52 years, owner Barbara Cavaleri has specialized in silver-

greeting card sets and also offers many ways to customize your

plate flatware pattern matching and satisfying every client with

own holiday cards and stamps. You’ll also find out-of-this-world

individual attention—finding the perfect gift for any occasion.

gifts for kin, friends, and teachers, including candles, candy, and bath and beauty items perfect for everyone on your list.

El Mio Boutique is the friendly little shop on the corner, located in the Regency Salon Suites in Woodland Hills, it’s a well-kept

Planet Beauty is a privately owned, upscale beauty retailer

community secret with its discreet location. Carrying a variety of

founded in Newport Beach in 1992. For over 20 years, they have

clothes made in the U.S., France, and Italy, El Mio has something

committed to providing customers with an exceptional one-stop

for women of all ages for every occasion. Owner Sherry Tamjidi

shopping experience for all professional beauty and personal

prides her store on offering some of the most chic and comforta-

care needs. Planet Beauty offers over 20,000 professional beauty

ble pieces available, with beautiful jewelry, handbags, and ac-

products in makeup, skincare, haircare, styling tools, bath, and

cessories to complement your personal style.

fragrance—and it’s the perfect store for holiday gifts.

If you are looking for a unique, rejuvenating gift, discover The FlowOne of the newest med spas on the Calabasas scene, Skin Bio

er Apothecary—a brand of products that have the power to heal.

brings cosmetic dermatology and bio-functional medicine to-

Flower essences are a botanically based healing system that ex-

gether, focusing on skincare and wellness. Their belief that attain-

isted since ancient times and are the least invasive form of subtle

ing good skin and wellness is integral to overall health translates

body medicine that interact with whatever negative emotions a

through their extensive list of services and selection of medi-

person is experiencing to gently and safely bring them back into a

cal-grade skincare products curated for every skin type. Give

positive state. Flower essences are not essential oils and, as such,

the gift of effortless wellness this holiday with a Skin Bio gift card.

contain no scent or inherent taste and no allergens.

If you are looking for a special slice of history, Beaver’s Den An-

Florentyna’s A Fine Flower Company uses an elite selection of

tiques of Woodland Hills has an incredible stock of meaningful

the world’s most extraordinary fresh flowers and foliage. Though

vintage treasures. Collectors and enthusiasts get lost for hours

each season’s most glorious flowers are hand-selected for ar-

in this historic heaven with a specially curated collection of an-

rangements, there is a firm belief that every flower, when used

tiques that hold heritage, warmth, and character of the past. For

properly, is beautiful. Their designs range from using fragrant

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herbs and English garden roses in their European garden-style ar-

Kalmaya Skincare leads the way in the balanced clean beauty

rangements to clean, sophisticated designs with exotic leaves,

industry. Their ingredients are USDA organic and EcoCert ap-

orchids, and amazing succulents.

proved, vegan, clean, and all natural. With lines from Anti-Age to Calm Your Senses, there is something for every skin craving.

One-of-a-kind jewelry pieces by Krysia Renau Modern Jew-

Kalmaya is about a calm, clean, and natural lifestyle with sus-

elry are designed by a 35-year Calabasas resident and social

tainably sourced, healthy ingredients for transformative results.

change activist with the heart and soul of the fashion-forward

The locally owned and operated skincare line is currently avail-

residents of our beloved community in mind. Representing the

able online.

beautiful California lifestyle, each piece is infused with inspiration from breathtaking nature using incredible natural gems and

Nothing Bundt Cakes brings joy and brightens days for every guest

unique stones. From bold, colorful necklaces to dainty jeweled

who visits their bakeries. If you want to take dessert up a notch,

rings, Krysia Renau has the perfect selection of holiday gifts.

Nothing Bundt Cake uses only the freshest, natural ingredients, including real eggs, butter, and cream cheese to achieve the

Agoura-based massage therapist Michelle Rozzen Massage & Oils is

perfection of every decadent, melt-in-your-mouth bite. Whether

a favorite amongst Hollywood elites and top athletes alike. With over

you’re enjoying a bundt cake, bundtlet, or a bundtini one thing

14 years of experience, Michelle developed a powerful, unique

is certain—perfection is all they offer.

ability to listen to each body and its path for healing, rebalancing, and aligning. Her line of natural massage oils and body care

Treat yourself to the finest European cakes and pastries from

products is made with the most effective ingredients, guaranteed

L.A.’s premier artisanal bakery. Since 1962, Emil’s Bake House

to provide comfort, offering the perfect gift of luxury and healing.

has been acclaimed for traditional recipes and unsurpassed quality. You will delight in luscious arrays of traditional cakes, ar-

Another simple idea for self-care and wellness lovers is purchasing

tisan breads, and pastries and be amazed by their intricate hol-

a gift certificate from CQ Nails in Calabasas. Who doesn’t enjoy

iday gingerbread houses, Yuletide logs, croque en bouche, and

a relaxing manicure, spa pedicure, or both? Men and women are

huge, delicious arrays of holiday cookies.

pampered by expert nail technicians in this luxurious salon. And gift cards, available in all denominations, are thoughtful gifts for friends,

Best wishes for the happiest of holiday seasons from our Calaba-

co-workers, teachers, or anyone to show how much you care.

sas Style family to yours. n Calabasas Style 93

MORE CARS & GELATO WITH TIFA CALABASAS Azzie Fiouzi, owner of local favorite Tifa Chocolate & Gelato in Calabasas, created another sweet treat for car enthusiasts and their families, hosting the second “Tifa Cars & Gelato” on Sunday, October 11. Organized by Azzie’s husband, Arya Fiouzi, and his friends, tons of classic and exotic cars gathered for display in front of the Tifa store located in the Courtyard at the Commons. The event attracted hundreds of families eager for an opportunity to check out the great cars on display while socially distancing in the large outdoor area.

What made the event even sweeter was that guests enjoyed wonder ful handcrafted gelato made in-house just before their arrival. Based on the popularity of these events, Azzie and Arya are planning to continue hosting “Tifa Cars & Gelato” and other fun events throughout the year. For more information, make sure to follow them on Instagram @tifa_calabasas.

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The Magic of Christmas Is Here:

aldik

home

It’s Needed Now More Than Ever

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By Elena Richards More than ever before, the magic of Christmas is a welcome relief. If you didn’t already know that there is a full-blown winter wonderland right here in Los Angeles, then you have certainly been missing out. For nearly 70 years, Aldik Home has been putting together jaw-dropping displays of the most beautiful Christmas décor found anywhere in the world.

Each

year,

they

have

a

completely

new

design, and you’ll just have to trust us when we say this one is the best yet!

There are thousands of unique ornaments, twinkling lights, spools of luxurious ribbon, and so much more around every corner. There are Santas, angels, glittery stems, and even an overhead light display. People often describe Aldik Home as Disneyland for Christmas, but without admission fee and throngs of people.

It’s impossible not to be in awe as you stroll through this enchanted forest of delightful décor. But truly, the most breathtaking aspects of the display are the trees themselves. Every size of every style of artificial Christmas tree— more than 60 in total—can be found in Aldik Home’s expansive, indoor tree lot.

The crown jewel of the tree lot is Aldik Home’s collection of Neuman trees, which are quite simply the best artificial Christmas trees in the world. Exponentially better than any Christmas tree you’ll find online at a retailer such as Balsam Hill, Neuman trees represent the goldstandard—with better lights, more realistic styles, and a commitment to excellence that is unsurpassed. Don’t order something online that you’ll regret when you can experience the biggest selection of the best Christmas trees in the world in person. Falling in love with the Christmas tree of your dreams is easier than ever.

It’s never been more important to experience the magic of Christmas at the most incredible Christmas display in the country. When it comes to

Christmas

decor,

Christmas

lights,

and

especially Christmas trees, there’s no place like Aldik Home!

Aldik Home 7651 Sepulveda Blvd.

Van Nuys 818.988.5970 aldikhome.com Calabasas Style 97

cheers to good friends

HOLIDAY cocktails

Special thanks to owner Rouz Yazdanyar for sharing incredible holiday cocktail recipes with us once again!

32131 Lindero Cyn. Rd., #111 Westlake Village 818.865.0095 zinwestlake.com

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Photography by Steve Geldman, Ivonne Hive , Kali Yahn

1) BANANA FOSTERS MARTINI 2 ½ oz. Absolut Vanilla Vodka 1 oz. Half and half 2 ½ oz. Banana liqueur Caramel drizzle *Garnish with a brûléed banana slice.

2) THE NAUGHTY LIST 1 ½ oz. Drambuie 1 oz. Crème de Cacao 1 oz. Coffee liqueur *Steam liqueur and add to hot coffee.

Top with whipped cream and garnish with ground cinnamon and cinnamon sticks.

3) TENNESSEE MULE 1 ½ oz. Jack Daniel’s Rye ½ oz. Lime juice *Top off with ginger beer

4) UNDER THE MISTLETOE 1 oz. Crème de Menth 1 oz. Crème de Cacao ½ oz. Half and half *Serve chilled in a martini glass with a chocolate drizzle.

5

5) PEPPERMINT TWIST 1 ½ oz. Smirnoff Peppermint Twist Vodka 2 ½ oz. Baileys Irish Cream *Serve chilled in a martini glass with a crushed peppermint candy rim.

6) WINTER SEA BREEZE 2 oz. Vodka 1 oz. Grapefruit juice 1 oz. Tonic water *Garnish with pomegranate seeds and a sprig of mint.

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club life Members Play for Annual Bragging Rights at RTJ CUP! The Club hosted the annual RTJ (Robert Trent Jones) Cup on September 12, where players divided up into two teams. The Red Team was captained by Men’s Club President Larry Gabriel, and the Blue Team was captained by 2020 Men’s Club Champion and Men’s Club Board Member Ryan Byers. The two teams played against each other matched up by handicaps for team points based upon a four-ball match play competition and an individual match play competition. Team Byers won this year, and all player’s names will be added to the RTJ Cup for annual bragging rights.

For information, please visit calabasasgolf.com General Information: 818.222.8111 | info@calabasasgolf.com

At Calabasas Country Club Pristine Golf Conditions at the Club and Driving Range

The golf course just reopened after the annual October shutdown for aerification and over-seeding, and the course is in pristine shape for play! The full driving range on natural grass with no-limit flight balls remained open along with the Club’s Performance Center that offers the latest technology in high-speed videos and launch monitors to evaluate and improve your swing.

Staying Fit Outdoors

Members are enjoying staying fit with outdoor spin classes, boot camp training sessions, and individual Pilates classes at the Club while maintaining the required social distance. In addition to the scheduled classes, spin bikes, treadmills, reclined bikes, and workout benches on the outside turf area are available for members to enjoy their own workouts.

Planning your private or corporate event? Contact Vanessa, food and beverage manager, 818.444.5545 | Vanessa@calabasasgolf.com

Virtual

Learning

By Kaylie Carafelli

1

Many of our students’ first days back to school looked very different than years past. But 2020 has shown us just how adaptable we can be. This is evident in how we’ve made the best of navigating new virtual learning routines, creating successful at-home learning environments for our children.

1. Reif, Kai, and Neal Alperin 2. Jayde Grossman 3. Jude Schneider 4. Haley and Lilah O’Quinn 5.

Charleigh Grossman 6. Brandon and Darren Kramar 7. Kaia Berger 8. Hannah Goldman

9. Emma

Goldman 10. Kevin Carmichael and John Wennes

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3

4

5

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8

10 9

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Our Beloved Pets

By Lori Berezin

AND WHY WE NEED THEM

A couple strolls by our window at midnight, walking their

world. They offer pure, uncomplicated acceptance.

dog. They actually shine a flashlight to help him see his

Who couldn’t use more of that? Human beings can be

way in the dark. Who would care so much about their fur-

complicated, especially those we love. Pets give us an

ry friend to go to all this trouble? Perhaps the answer lies

avenue to unleash our caring, nurturing sides without

in the fact that these amazing animals always have our

fear. Loving these sweet creatures also releases feel-

backs, offering everlasting affection.

good endorphins. It’s far easier than running a few miles and less fattening than chocolate. Our pets look up at

Cats love us, too. They just show it differently than our ca-

us with those big brown, blue, or green eyes, and we’re

nine companions. Not only do cats and dogs provide a

hooked. It’s as simple as that.

sense of curiosity and belonging in our day-to-day lives, they bolster our physical, spiritual, and mental health. Their

Ever since our ancestors first domesticated wolf pups

unconditional love even boosts our self-esteem. Studies

th o u s a n d s o f y e a r s a g o f o r h u n t i n g a n d f o u n d t h e m

show they reduce stress levels and feelings of loneliness.

worthy companions, we’ve made them part of our

They also help lower blood pressure and increase feelings

lives. High cholesterol? Consider adopting a pet.

of attachment. Walk them through the neighborhood and

They’ve been shown to lower that as well. Next time

feel more connected to your community.

you feel stressed get a little exercise with your pup or simply curl up with your purring feline and cuddle your

We need our animals as much as they need us. They provide a sense of security in our constantly changing 104

Calabasas Style

cares away. n

PACIFIC FESTIVAL BALLET DEBUTS NEW ORIGINAL FILMS With theaters closed indefinitely, Kim Maselli, artistic director for the California Dance Theatre and Pacific Festival Ballet, felt that it was important to think outside the box to keep dancers and audience members engaged. The Secret Garden, a charming original ballet, was suddenly transformed into a film when the COVID crisis shut down preparations for the spring 2020 performances. The results of creative thinking and determination brought this garden back to life in a whole new way. Filmed outdoors, the enchanting story of Mary Lennox and a forgotten garden is restored to bring hope and beauty back into their world.

The new film is available to rent or purchase on Vimeo. Additionally, Kim and her team have begun filming their second production, A Holiday Angel, which they plan to premiere mid-December at a venue somewhere in the greater Conejo Valley. For more information, go to pacfestballet.org.

Calabasas Style 105

Ask the

Pediatrician Paying Cash for Your Doctor Can Save Time, Money, Sanity, and Your Health!

By Dr. Tanya Altmann More and more physicians are opting out of insurance-based models to be able to provide better and more personalized care. Whether cash-pay, direct primary care, or concierge, they all have common goals, including convenient, on-time, longer, and more-comprehensive office visits. These physicians focus on the importance of preventing illness and disease and living a healthier life. Patients can often access their own doctor 24/7 by email, text, or Facetime when needed.

Some concierge doctors, like us, also do home visits, coordinate care, and have constant communication with top specialists for their patients.

Concierge medicine has become especially popular during the pandemic because of all that it offers—the ability to have one family in the office at a time, a focus on mental health and virtual school success, the chance to discuss how and when to safely return to activities, access to COVID testing, advice on visiting relatives, contact tracing, and much more.

This concept may seem radical, but this is how physicians, like my grandfather, practiced years ago. In addition, many labs, hospitals, and imaging centers are getting onboard—offering reasonable upfront cash-pay prices.

You not only save money on healthcare, but you also save time and exposure by not waiting in a busy doctor’s office.

Your kids won’t miss school, and you won’t miss work for appointments. You save sanity being able to reach your doctor and get advice and appointments when needed. Your physician can actually take better care of your family by having time to focus on personalized, preventive healthcare, including nutrition, sleep, healthy lifestyle, COVID prevention, and school success.

.

Tanya Altmann, MD, FAAP 23586 Calabasas Rd., #107 Calabasas 818.914.4429 CalabasasPedsWellness.com drtanya.com 106

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NO ONE GOES AWAY HUNGRY AT THE

West Valley Food Pantry

By Lori Berezin

The West Valley Food Pantry remains true to its motto that

the desire to help feed the hungry. The pantry supplies

“no one goes away hungry,” even during our current pan-

the rest.

demic. Giving away much-needed groceries to more than 77,000 people over the past seven months alone, their

The West Valley Food Pantry continues to incorporate an

team of tireless workers and volunteers is still on the front

inter faith coalition of churches and temples and gener-

lines.

ous donors and volunteers to alleviate hunger within our community. They accept able-bodied adults and teens

What began back in 1975 as a small collection of canned

from 16 to 18 years of age with parental permission. To

goods donated by caring parishioners of the Prince of

keep everyone safe, volunteers and employees undergo a

Peace Episcopal Church in Woodland Hills has grown into

temperature check and short questionnaire before each

a massive relief effort. Prior to the recent shutdown, the

shift. They also disinfect all sur faces and equipment and

pantry served as many as 3,500 people a month. It con-

provide masks, gloves, and plenty of hand sanitizer.

tinues to operate a drive-thru food line in the church’s parking lot at 5700 Rudnick Avenue.

Nominated by State Assemblyman Jessie Gabriel and selected as a 2020 California Non-Profit of the Year, The West

“We could not do what we do for the community without

Valley Food Pantry gratefully accepts monetary donations

our amazing and dedicated volunteers,” shares Lily Varn-

and unopened, unexpired foods. Visit the website for

er. “We have morning and afternoon shifts, which include

further information on contributing to this worthy cause.

computer entry and verification, picking up and sorting

Those interested in volunteering can also fill out an online

food from grocery store donors, and distributing it to our

application at westvalleyfoodpantry.org. n

drive-thru clients.” All volunteers need is a big heart and 112

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Community Tribute Honors Two Local Children

Photography by Steve Geldman On the evening of September 29, Mark and Jacob

A memorial on Triunfo Canyon Road hosts a continuously

Iskander of Westlake Village lost their lives at the hand of

growing collection of flowers, photos, stuffed animals, and

a suspected DUI driver while crossing a crosswalk south of

more special gifts brought by mourners from across the

Westlake lake. Mark, age 11 and a 6th-grade student at

community who feel shocked, horrified, and saddened by

Oaks Christian, and Jacob, age 9 and a 3rd-grade student

the tragic accident. Calabasas Style is grieving with the

at Ascension Lutheran, were on an evening walk with their

Iskander family and our community over the senseless loss.

parents, Karim and Nancy Iskander, who were only able to

A GoFundMe account has been set up in the family’s name:

save their two younger children by pulling them back on

gofundme.com/f/support-for-the-iskander-family. n

the curb in time. Westlake Village City Council has since voted to install flashing lights at the intersection.

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Don’t

Drink AND

DRIVE

By Irene Marshall It’s been a long, frustrating year. Along with the stress of COVID-19, many people have been drinking more wine, hard seltzers, beer,

The family.

Many of you know family members who drink too much at hol-

etc. I confess when COVID-19 first hit and we all stocked up for the

iday parties. You recognize your husband, boyfriend, sister, or

stay-at-home order, a case of wine was always near the top of my

mother risks his or her life and the lives of others when he or she

list, along with a case of TP. Now, with a new version of the holidays

gets behind the wheel in an intoxicated state. Take a stand and

coming, there will be more get-togethers and socializing. Some of

be firm. No drinking and driving.

us look forward to the holidays festivities all year long. We are not sure what the holidays will hold for us this year, but usually, with the holidays come family gatherings, work functions, celebrations with

Friends.

We hear it repeated again and again, but it’s true! Friends don’t

friends, and football-game get-togethers. These might be small

let friends drive drunk. Do what it takes to keep an intoxicat-

gatherings this year, but it’s easy for drinking to get out of hand.

ed friend from getting behind the wheel. Take his keys away.

Move his car to a place where he can’t find it. Drive him home

Every holiday season, there is a spike in drunk driving. It’s up to each

yourself. Call an Uber if you can’t drive him home either be-

and every one of us to do our part to prevent any possible trage-

cause you don’t have a car or because you’ve had too much

dies. Remember, everyone has a role to play in keeping drunk driv-

to drink yourself.

ers off the road.

The driver.

You. Yes, you. You have a role to play in keeping drunk drivers off the

No one is more responsible for preventing drunk driving than you,

roads. Watch out for them as you travel the highways and roads

the driver. No excuses! If you drink, you can’t drive.

over the holidays. If you see driver conduct that suggests a mo-

The host.

Most of us enjoy hosting holiday parties for friends and family. How-

torist is driving while intoxicated, call the police and report the suspicious behavior immediately. Give location, vehicle make and model, and license plate number whenever possible. n

ever, with the decision to serve alcoholic beverages comes the responsibility to make certain our guests don’t leave the gathering so impaired that they are unable to drive safely.

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Source: Allenandallen.com

Ask the Pharmacist

Q A

I seem to get sick every winter; I am really concerned

Are you even more confused now? The best advice is to get

this year. How can I tell if it’s a cold, the flu, or COVID?

your flu shot this year to reduce your chance of getting the flu. It is hoped that with all of us avoiding crowded spaces, distancing, masking, and hand washing, all three—COVID, flu,

You have good reason to be concerned because the

and cold—will be less frequent this winter…but we will be in-

symptoms for all three—and even allergies—are very

doors more than we have been. Most importantly, if you start

similar. There are, however, some differences. The

to develop any symptoms at all, stay home, isolate yourself,

symptoms of COVID and the flu are the most similar so I will ad-

and if you can, be tested for COVID. Testing should be much

dress those first. Both have symptoms that include fever, cough,

more accessible in the coming months, and hopefully, there

shortness of breath, headache, fatigue, sore throat, runny or

will be a vaccine by the spring.

stuffy nose, and muscle or body aches. Fever is the most frequent symptom with COVID (although some people don’t have a fever), and coughing is the most frequent with the flu.

COVID has a gradual onset of symptoms, and flu symptoms have a sudden onset. COVID has the unique symptom of loss of taste or smell. Sore throat is most often seen with the common cold. Symptoms of the common cold also tend to include sneezing, watery eyes, and post-nasal drip. Because of these symptoms, the common cold is often confused with allergies.

Brenda Johnson, R.Ph., Calabasas Pharmacy Owner Inside Gelson’s Market 22277 Mulholland Hwy., Calabasas M – F: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Saturday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Sunday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

P: 818.223.8656 | F: 818.223.8750 calabasaspharmacy.com

Allergy symptoms, however, do not include sore throat but may include itchy eyes.

Calabasas Style 117

TOSCANOVA Calabasas More Popular Than Ever!

By Elena Richards Photography by Marvin Steindler

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Since the day they opened in April 2012, Toscanova at The Commons of Calabasas has been one of the most popular and beloved dining destinations in the Calabasas community. The elegant Italian restaurant— with authentic Italian food and ambiance—is a favorite “go-to” for business lunches, birthday and anniversary parties, and romantic dinners.

When Los Angeles County restaurants were finally given the green light to reopen their doors for the first time since the March 16 lockdown, the owners, managers, chef, and staff breathed a heavy sigh of relief. Then they sprang into action to comply with all of the new COVID-19 protocols and safety measures necessary to keep both their staff and their guests safe. The team at Toscanova understood the importance of taking the pandemic seriously. The menus were updated.

They purchased the PPE required for reopening safely, invested in rigorous training, and redesigned the restaurant’s layout to create more open space on the patio and courtyard grassy areas to accommodate more outside tables. While it may have taken the staff and their guests a little time to adjust to wearing their masks, it took no time at all for the word to spread that Toscanova was once again bustling. In fact, customers have raved about the new outdoor space, exclaiming that the restaurant makes them feel even more like they’ve been transported to a quaint Tuscan village, where they can enjoy the beautiful trees, lights, soft music, and ambiance.

While the dining experience and safety protocols have changed, the food remains classically delicious.

Chef Agostino Sciandri, known for taking a modern approach to classic dishes, serves an enticing variety of salads, pasta dishes with a gluten-free option, woodfired pizza, succulent seafood, and sizzling steaks. While the menu is extensive, many people enjoy hearing and ordering the daily specials, described in great detail by their Italian waiters and staff.

While everyone has their favorite dishes/entrees, the Tagliatelle Alla Bolognese, a homemade tagliatelle with beef ragu; the Filetto Di Manzo, grilled sliced filet mignon with wild baby arugula and shaved parmesan; and the Spaghetti Scampi E Rucola-Spaghetti with shrimp, arugula, and cherry tomatoes are house favorites. Customers also love the Carpaccio Di Salmone, a marinated fresh Atlantic salmon with shaved fennel, and the Nodino Di Vitello, a grilled veal chop with mixed wild mushrooms.

Toscanova also offers a wide array of hand-crafted cocktails and delicious wine and a great assortment of appetizers that can be enjoyed by the iconic fire pit or on the beautiful patio.

Toscanova is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week. While reservations are not required, it is highly recommended to reserve your table in advance.

Takeout and delivery are still wonderful options. n 4799 Commons Way Calabasas 818.225.0499 toscanova.com Calabasas Style 119

—

Take out or Dine In —

Treat yourself to a night off, and support our local eateries.

Bogie’s Bar 32001 Agoura Rd. Westlake Village 818.889.2394 bogies-bar.com

Mastro’s Ocean Club 18412 Pacific Coast Hwy. Malibu 310.454.4357 mastros.com

The Grill on the Alley 120 Promenade Way Westlake Village 805.418.1760 thegrillonthealley.com

Brent’s Delicatessen & Restaurant 2799 Townsgate Rd. Westlake Village 805.557.1882

Mediterraneo 32037 Agoura Rd. Westlake Village 818.889.9105 med-rest.com

The Six Chow House 23536 Calabasas Rd. Calabasas 818.222.6969 thesixrestaurant.com

Morton’s The Steakhouse 6250 Canoga Ave. Woodland Hills 818.703.7272 mortons.com

The Stand 23683 Calabasas Rd. Calabasas 818.206.6363

19565 Parthenia St. Northridge 818.886.5679 brentsdeli.com Carrara’s Italian Eatery 144 W. Los Angeles Ave. Moorpark 805.552.4250 carraras.com Emil’s Bake House 5005 Kanan Rd. Agoura Hills 818.532.7663 emilscafe.com H.O.M Italian Eatery 21136 Ventura Blvd.

Woodland Hills 818.313.9500 letsgohom.com

Paul Martin’s American Grill 100 S. Westlake Blvd.

Westlake Village 805.373.9300 paulmartinsamericangrill.com Pearl District 982 S. Westlake Blvd., #8 Westlake Village 805.230.9944 14015 Ventura Blvd.

Sherman Oaks 818.301.3700 pearldistrictrestaurant.com

King’s Fish House 4798 Commons Way Calabasas 818.225.1979 kingsfishhouse.com

Pedalers Fork 23504 Calabasas Rd. Calabasas 818.225.8231 pedalersfork.com

Lal Mirch 5146 Kanan Rd. Agoura Hills 818.532.7532 lalmirchagourahills.com

Porta Via-Now Open!

4799 Commons Way, #J Calabasas 818.746.2020 portaviarestaurants.com

Lal Mirch Studio City 11138 Ventura Blvd.

Studio City 818.980.2273 lalmirch.com Mastro’s Steakhouse 2087 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd.

Thousand Oaks 805.418.1811

Sagebrush Cantina 23527 Calabasas Rd. Calabasas 818.222.6062 sagebrushcantina.com

5780 Canoga Ave. Woodland Hills 818.710.0400 thestand.com The Stonehaus 32039 Agoura Rd. Westlake Village 818.483.1152 the-stonehaus.com Toscanova 4799 Commons Way, #A Calabasas 818.225.0499 10250 Santa Monica Blvd.

Century City 310.551.0499 toscanova.com Twisted Oak Tavern 30105 Agoura Rd. Agoura Hills 818.735.0091 2433 Ventura Blvd.

Camarillo 805.586.4005 twistedoaktavern.pub Zin Bistro Americana 32131 Lindero Cyn. Rd., #111 Westlake Village 818.865.0095 zinwestlake.com

Contact the restaurants directly for details. The days and hours they are open are often updated.

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The Lamborghini Aventador

SJV Roadster

By Dustin Troyan Photography by Lamborghini

The Lamborghini SVJ Roadster may just be the ultimate convertible. A very limited edition with only 800 units being produced for the global market, this is the roadster to own if you mean business.

“The Aventador SVJ Roadster inherits all the power, per for mance, and ground-breaking aerodynamic technologies of the coupe but with its own iconic presence and prowess,” says Chair man and Chief Executive Officer of Automobili Lamborghini Stefano Domenicali. “It is as fundamentally exciting to drive as the Aventador SVJ but with an added exclusivity: the option of open air. W ith the same extraordinary per formance roof on or off, the Aventador SVJ Roadster incorporates the dynamism of the coupe with the unique spirit of a Lamborghini roadster.”

The SVJ Roadster, beyond its aggressive looks and incredible presence also has the heart to back up its SVJ name. The SVJ stands for Super Veloce Jota. Super Veloce means “super fast” in Italian. Jota was a name first given to a one-of-a-kind extreme-per for mance version of the classic Lamborghini Miura back in 1970. Translation: This is a track-prepped, street-racing machine that has the best of Lamborghini’s heritage and technology. It is “the package.”

The SVJ boasts the most power ful series production V12-engined car produced by Lamborghini, outputting 770 hp at 8,500 rpm. Lamborghini technology is at the cutting edge of handling, breaking, safety, and acceleration, and the SVJ Roadster is the very best option for those who demand exclusivity, per for mance, art, and innovation. The SVJ Roadster is per fection. n 122

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See What's Cooking at

WDC

Kitchen & Bath

By Lori Berezin Health and wellness remain a focal point these days across the globe. In Southern California, family-owned WDC Kitchen & Bath Center notes a similar focus in the kitchen and bath industry and currently offers a myriad of health-minded products to meet this growing need. These include air-dry ovens that cook with little to no oil and combi-steam ovens that enable you to prepare both steamed and regularly cooked meals. They can even defrost and reheat just like your less-than-healthy microwave ovens. The steam also helps food retain more moisture and nutrients.

As busy families seek additional ways to maintain a better work/ life balance, they look for products that make their lives easier. Voice-activated plumbing fixtures, such as kitchen faucets and shower systems that utilize Amazon’s Alexa and Google

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Assistant, grow in popularity. Smart refrigerators attract a tech-savvy audience. Bluetooth-enabled devices that let you control your appliances from your smart phone and LCD screens that enable you to adjust oven temperature via Wi-Fi are all on the rise in our increasingly connected world. Refrigerators offering a combination of food zones and filtered water are also on-tap.

Black stainless steel puts a new face on popular appliances. All-in-one washers/dryers clean and dry within a single unit. Since they’re ventless, they fit conveniently into smaller spaces, such as bathrooms and closets. Customers can find the newest trends for their kitchens, bathrooms, and more at the 2,000-square-foot WDC Kitchen & Bath Center in Agoura Hills or other locations throughout Souther n Califor nia. n WDC Kitchen & Bath Center 30621 Canwood St. Agoura Hills 818.991.8846 wdcappliances.com

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Décor CALABASAS ST YLE ’ S FAVO R ITE ELEM ENTS FACTOR HD Factor HD has always known that the finishing touches make the space. Since 1998, their talented and experienced designers have been laying the foundation for surfaces that feel rich in texture, tone, and distinctive finish. Visit their new website complete with new kitchen and bathroom visualizers to help you design your dream space.

22419 Ventura Blvd.

Woodland Hills 818.348.0401 factorhd.com

PACIFIC PATIO Pacific Patio Furniture has a variety of outdoor furniture, fire pits, and accessories in beautiful styles and materials. With a great selection of manufacturers, they are sure to be able to find the perfect pieces to suit your outdoor aesthetic.

28505 Canwood St. Agoura Hills 818.949.6120 pacpatio.com

ELEGANT FIREPLACE MANTELS Elegant Fireplace Mantels offers the largest collection of fireplace mantels in North America. They have the ability to create and recreate many different styles and designs to meet every client’s goal in materials like French limestone, Turkish travertine, and Italian Carra cast stone.

11949 Borden Ave. San Fernando 800.295.9109 elegantfm.com

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Calabasas Style has perused the local area to locate some of our favorite home dĂŠcor elements, and we are excited to share them with our readers!

GLOBAL SOURCE LIGHTING Featuring the world’s finest lighting and accessories, they are proud to bring the beauty of their lighting collections to your home. From crystal fixtures and chandeliers to exterior lighting and fans, Global Source Lighting caters to your needs and specific design vision.

28501 Canwood St. Agoura Hills 818.707.6000 globalsourcelighting.com

ALDIK HOME Looking for the perfect artificial Christmas tree this year? Aldik Home has the finest trees in the country -- far better than the average online product. Their Neuman Trees are simply stunning! See for yourself at Aldik Home.

7651 Sepulveda Blvd.

Van Nuys 818.988.5970 aldikhome.com

PTS FURNITURE This beautiful dining set by Bermex is manufactured in Canada. There are multiple styles, sizes, and finishes available to customize the perfect dining or dinette set for your space. See this set and more at the PTS Furniture Showroom.

250 Conejo Ridge Ave. Thousand Oaks 805.496.4804 ptsfurniture.com Calabasas Style 127

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12 month interest-free financing available.

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C

Style

Homebound For The Holidays

By Maya Williams This year’s holiday season may look a little different than the norm, but the gift of giving still holds true. I’ve selected this year’s holiday picks that will favor “at-home living” with goodies for home office, lounging and relaxing, entertaining, and cooking. All items are available through the trade.

Get that perfect glow for your Zoom calls with this desk lamp from Thomas O’Brien $472

Shagreen and brass desk Accessories by Aerin $150-450

Replenish after a great night’s sleep with Italian 100%-cotton bedding from Matouk $180-800

Turn your bath into a spa experience with this set of 3 Flora Bath Bars $60

Dress up your outdoor space with this indoor outdoor rug, starting at $50 Ultimate coziness with these sweet luxury alpaca throws from Matouk $297 The new Missoni beach towel will have you basking in style $250

Balance your chakras with the Aromatherapy Campo Diffuser $97

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These self-watering planters and closed canopy gardens allow your herbs and bulbs to flourish while looking beautiful. Sustainably manufactured products, launched in collaboration with the Eden Project, LSA $84-342 Mouthblown glassware from LSA

$45-140

Mother of pearl drinking coasters $149

Hand-painted iridescent glass accessories in a rainbow of colors bring joy to any space, from LSA $240-360

MAYA WILLIAMS DESIGN 818.854.6031

Armchair travel by exploring some of the world’s greatest buildings from 3000 BC to the present day in this limited-edition book by Taschen, at anniversary price $20 Limited edition

You’re in the clear with this lucite chess set. $370

maya@mayawilliamsdesign.com FB: MayaWilliamsDesign IG: mayawilliamsdesign

Xiaomi Mi TV LUX OLED Transparent Edition clear TV has an edge-to-edge display.

Price released soon

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Keep Your Floors on Trend With

IDN Hardwood and Carpet

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By Lori Berezin Photography by Marvin Steindler and provided Flooring trends change from year to year as homeowners acquire new tastes and technology allows for a larger variety of designs. According to IDN Flooring in Canoga Park, dark hues struck the right note with homeowners this year and last. Flooring finishes ranging from jet black to light gray remain very popular. Always keep the room’s natural lighting and color in mind. If the room is fairly light, use a dark floor and vice versa. Another trend that could continue into next year is letting imper fections, such as a flooring’s grain and pockmarks, create a more natural look and feel.

Many factors come into play when deciding what flooring to choose. Determine your ideal wood; decide if you’d like engineered or solid flooring, floated, glued, or nailed; and whether the strips should be laid straight, diagonally, or otherwise. Strips placed lengthwise make a room look longer. Placed widthwise, they make it look wider. Lay your floor in the same direction as the light entering the room. Keep the size of the room in mind when selecting the wood, as some require a large area to achieve the desired look.

Different woods also possess varying degrees of hardness. Choose denser flooring for rooms that must withstand a lot of traffic, such as hallways, living rooms, and kitchens. Bedrooms usually receive the least. Finishing touches are also extremely important. Oiled finishes work well with floors that get a lot of wear. If one part of an oiled floor is damaged, for instance, it is possible to repair that specific area. Varnished floors can also handle a lot of action and are easily maintained.

IDN Hardwood and Carpet Superstore began as an interior designer company in 1991. Five years later, they opted to focus on flooring and interior design and continue to provide eco-friendly, top-quality products along with expert design and installation services. From sand and refinishing to custom repair, IDN offers quality flooring and services at reasonable prices. n

IDN Flooring 7947 Canoga Ave. Canoga Park 818.888.8051 idnflooring.net Calabasas Style 133

Conflicting Signals

By Mark Wendell From the peaks of mountain tops to the depths of barren valleys

more divisive and controversial media, more derisive politics, and

and back up to the top again all in one year, Wall Street has been

more imposed health restrictions upon our daily routines, ironically

a confusing volatile enigma and, seemingly, a constant contradic-

choking the life out of the very free, democratic, capitalistic system

tion this year. Why? Usually stock prices represent the proverbial ca-

we know and love.

nary in a coal mine. They tend to be forward forecasting of corporate profits and losses. Therefore, it makes sense that investors gain

Technology is so integrated into our lives that a near collapse of

perspective now by looking into the future and not be deterred by

the economy was the extenuating factor that brought out its vital

the virus fears, media drama, and election confusion. Rather, they

importance to our capitalistic economic system, and as well, the

should focus on the soon-to-be recharged economy, reenergized

near catastrophe revealed the vital human element of our mostly

corporate profits, and higher portfolio values.

service-based economy. The services sector represents about 70% of the USA economy. In the investment world, about 39% of the

Why, then, have stock market major indices regained their values

S&P index is categorized as technology companies. Yet the tech-

but the economy in aggregate has not recovered overall, with

nology sector of the GDP in the USA represents only about 7%. This

only a few notable sectors excepted from the downturn? “The

contradiction in numbers exposes the real reason high market val-

stock market is not the economy”—is the often-stated cliché an-

ues do not make much sense today but they make all the sense in

swer. What this statement says is that there are millions of individuals

the world if we look back to the future when the two major issues of

and businesses in every corner of this country either hanging on by

the day have resolved—the election and the virus.

a thread or that have already sunk into oblivion. In a capitalistic economy, it is simply money freely flowing to its highest and best

Another vital reason Wall Street has confidence today is that the

use—government unimpeded, with competition, profits, and loss-

Federal Reserve’s monetary policy intervention has engendered

es—that allows the system in our country to flourish. A shutdown

confidence by supporting asset values, maintaining low interest

economy due to the pandemic is a hammer and sickle to the USA’s

rates, and promoting actions that help bring down unemploy-

capitalistic system, mucking up our mostly well-oiled, evolving,

ment rates. Additionally, Congress’s fiscal policy of adding stimulus

healthy economic system. History shows that it is the human ele-

certainly adds to consumer confidence and therefore assists with

ment of capitalism, something freely given—labor for currency—in

overall efforts to support an economic recovery.

exchange for something received—products and services—known as trade that is the not-so-well-kept secret to a thriving capitalis-

While financial markets are inherently unpredictable, there are logi-

tic economy, higher standards of living, and a happy and healthy

cal reasons in our sickly capitalistic economy today that market and

country. It seems that only the few businesses and individuals that

investment confidence is the word of the day and that policy mak-

were able to sustain themselves, somewhat normally, were those

ers will do their level best to invoke consumer confidence, consumer

that operated mostly via the internet, that did not require much or

spending, and promote a thriving economic recovery quickly. n

any human contact, and that were well prepared to weather the downturn storms of 2020. This infamous year will be known as the anti-capitalism – anti-democratic year, the year that lacked the human factor in capitalism, a year that hoisted more government,

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MD Wealth Partners, Inc.: A personal wealth enhancement boutique for select clients. mark@mdwealthpartners.com. mdwealthpartners.com.

805.402.8642. Copyright © Mark Wendell 2020. All rights reserved.

EXCEPTIONAL REAL ESTATE

PROFESSIONALS “Success in real estate starts when you believe you are worthy of it.”

— Michael Ferrara

W

hile the coronavirus has changed our lives in almost every way, the one bright spot may be the housing market, which is keeping our local realtors extremely busy. At the beginning of the year, our local market was bustling with activity. It came to a screeching halt in March and April as we went into a pandemic-driven lockdown. Buyers stopped looking and sellers pulled their homes off the market. But the market began to rebound quickly as the real estate professionals learned to adapt following all the new safety protocols. Today, demand is higher than ever. The word “home” has taken on a new meaning as many residents are working from home and kids are still learning at home while schools remain closed.

Now more than ever, you need an experienced realtor to guide you through the competitive process of buying and selling your home. The following section highlights some of the most exceptional realtors in our community. By sharing their profiles, we hope to help you determine the real estate agent or agency best suited to fit your individual needs and objectives.

Photography by Marvin Steindler

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES •••••••••••••

MARC SHEVIN SARA SHEVIN 23925 Park SorrentO Calabasas 818.251.2456 : 818.205.2095

Combining family, local knowledge, and hard work has been a very successful combination for us.

theshevins.com BRE #00559629 BRE #02038247

I

n our local real estate market, the Shevins are widely acknowledged as area experts.

Specializing in the cities of Calabasas and Hidden Hills, they are noted for their years of consistent success in the marketing and sale of luxury estates. With over 40 years of combined experience, they average over $200 million in residential real estate sales every year and consistently rank in the Top 10 Agents of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices nationwide. Representing a wide range of clients from local families to celebrities to property developers and more, the Shevins have a unique ability to connect and communicate with their extensive client base. Their hard work, market knowledge, and attention to detail have produced many satisfied and loyal clients.

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What would you like potential clients to know about your team?

My brother, Rory, and I started working in real estate over 40 years ago as The Shevin Team. Rory retired a few years ago, but we have continued the family legacy with the next generation: my daughter, Sara.

Combining family, extensive local knowledge, client care, and hard work has been a very successful combination for us.

What areas are your specialty?

We specialize in selling homes of all price ranges in Hidden Hills and Calabasas.

Whether you are interested in buying or selling a custom Hidden Hills estate, a beautiful home in one of the gated Calabasas developments, or a cozy townhome on Calabasas Lake, we are ready to work with you to help meet your specific needs.

What do you feel is the most rewarding aspect of your work?

We enjoy working with our clients, helping individuals and families find their perfect homes, and helping our builder clients looking to create the perfect home for another family to love.

Working with the people we have come to meet has been a highlight for us, with many clients becoming long-term friends.

Unlike most other brokerages or individual agents, our team is essentially one. The core of what we do is collaboration. In other words, the sum is greater than its parts.

We have an all-handson-deck philosophy, and never will anyone within our firm compete with the other.

This essence is the basis of our success and growth.

What areas are your specialty?

I currently live in Calabasas with my wife, Ellie, and our three sons, so I know the area well. While I continue to represent buyers and sellers throughout Los Angeles and beyond, I especially enjoy working with people in the Calabasas and Hidden Hills communi-

ties, which are among the best in California to live, work, and raise a family in.

What should potential clients know about you?

I am truly passionate about educating my clients about all the benefits of the Calabasas and neighboring Hidden Hills lifestyle. As managing partner and principal of The Agency’s Calabasas office, I bring more than a dozen years of real estate and mortgage lending experience to the team, remaining up-to-date on the variety of properties, lifestyle, amenities, and local inventory. I am fluent in four languages plus all things related to real estate.

I invite current and future clients to learn more about me on Instagram at @emilhartoonian.

Photography by Behzad Design

What about you/ your team would you like clients to know?

THE AGENCY •••••••••••••

EMIL HARTOONIAN 23622 Calabasas Rd., #148 Calabasas 310.990.0063 theagencyre.com/agent/emil-hartoonian BRE #01796925

At The Agency, a win for one is a win for all.

E

mil Hartoonian provides his clients in Calabasas and beyond with an exceptional understanding of real estate transactions and a high level of personalized service that has placed him in the top 1% of agents in the area. His wide range of clientele at The Agency’s Calabasas office includes high-profile personalities, heads of industry, and business executives across the entertainment, medical, and hospitality industries. Emil’s experience with such diverse profiles has inspired his ability to cater to every expectation and adapt his style to deliver a personalized experience to each individual client. He is an active member of the Southland Regional Association of Realtors and firmly believes in empowering his clients with the latest market knowledge and consistent updates to better enable them to make sound real estate decisions.

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Pinnacle Estate Properties, INC. •••••••••••••

david watkins 24025 Park Sorrento, #110 Calabasas 818.970.2946 DavidWatkins.com

How have you stayed successful during COVID-19?

What should potential clients know about you?

I have continued to work from my office every day and stay on top of communication with my clients. During these unprecedented times, it is also important to think ahead in anticipation of potential delays and how that can impact the buying and selling process. It’s crucial to be ready to handle any curveballs so that all the moving parts of a transaction stay on track. I have always focused on how I can achieve the most desirable results for my clients.

During the pandemic, continuing to move forward at full-speed ahead has supported that goal.

As a Calabasas and Hidden Hills agent that lives, works, and has raised his family in Calabasas, I know each community intimately. When working with buyers, I can recommend certain communities and home models that will best suit their needs.

When working with sellers, my experience in Calabasas and Hidden Hills allows me to provide an accurate valuation of their properties. My clients are my top priority, especially during a major life transition, so I take a hands-on approach from the beginning to the end of the process to ensure that clients are protected and educated.

I’m honored to be the top Premier Agent on Zillow based on my sales, listings, and reviews.

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Photography by Kali Yahn

DRE #01307458

A

s a local Calabasas and Hidden Hills REALTOR ® with two decades of luxury real estate experience, David Watkins brings personal care and attention to each of his clients. From the start to the close of a transaction, he works day in and day out to ensure that every step of the process—from home showings to negotiations to inspections—is handled as smoothly as possible with his direct presence and expert guidance. He facilitates consistent communication and encourages feedback from his clients in addition to utilizing both digital and print marketing strategies that are uniquely tailored for each property. Rated #1 Zillow 91302 Agent, David takes pride in his high work ethic and proven ability to achieve desirable results.

What about you/ your team would you like potential clients to know?

Unlike most seasoned realtors, I choose not to employ a “team.” I truly believe that I give my sellers the very best chance to sell their home so I handle all showings and negotiations. I employ two full-time assistants to help with computer work, etc.

Why should potential clients choose you?

To sell a home for top dollar, it takes extensive marketing, skill, and experience. I passionately invite homeowners

to interview me so they can see exactly what I do in order to sell my luxury listings.

What should potential clients know about you?

I am honest, ethical, fair, and very aggressive with my approach. I only get paid when I sell a home, so I will work relentlessly until the job is finished and everyone is happy. I am happily married for 28 years and have two wonderful children. My 24-year-old son is a graduate from Chapman University, and my 21-year-old daughter studies film at NYU.

RE/MAX ONE •••••••••••••

JORDAN COHEN 30699 Russell Ranch Rd., #100 Westlake Village 818.435.5220 jordancohen.com BRE #01103362

I am honest, ethical, fair, and very aggressive with my approach.

J

ordan Cohen is the #1 RE/MAX Agent worldwide and the winner of the prestigious Inman Top Luxury Agent of 2019 (all companies). In 2019, Jordan was able to break two sales records, representing the buyer of the most expensive home in Hidden Hills in history, closing the deal at $22.2 million and representing the seller of the most expensive home in Ventura County history, selling a North Ranch estate for $35 million. He has worked hard to establish himself in the sports and celebrity market, representing over 100 professional athletes and numerous actors, entertainers, and film executives. Annually, he closes over $220 million in residential sales. Through high-end magazines, internet, and social media, he is able to aggressively expose his listings locally and globally. Jordan is also a verified real estate influencer on Instagram with over 400,000 followers - @jordancohen1.

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Photography by Tanveer Badal

COMPASS •••••••••••••

dana OLMES & jeff Biebuyck GROUP 23500 Long Valley RD. Hidden Hills 747.888.0508 DanaAndJeffLuxuryHomes.com BRE #00944676 BRE #01383921

R

anked among the top 1% of agents in the country, Dana and Jeff continue to thrive as top producers in the real estate industry. They’re in an elite group of peak-performing agents showcasing remarkable integrity, steadfast negotiating skills, and fresh, effective marketing strategies. The tremendous breadth of Dana and Jeff’s ever-growing business generated by past clients and referrals is a true testament to the team’s unwavering and unmatched dedication.

A colorful mix of influencers, corporate executives, attorneys, athletes, business managers, celebrities and renowned industry leaders comprise their ever-expanding clientele base. Unshakable at the top of their individual markets, as well as in the collective real estate industry nationwide, this team has wildly surpassed expectations and continues to do so.

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As a concierge to our clients’ needs, we are not afraid to go beyond expectations – it’s what makes our team stand apart.

What about your business would you like potential clients to know?

Our team focuses on strategic marketing for each and every home we sell with our utmost dedication, communication, and determination while embodying the ability to cater and adapt to all our clients’ real estate needs. Just as our real estate industry evolves to be more innovative and efficient, so do we. We provide an exemplary real estate service to

ensure that our clients feel confident with their decision to work with us.

What areas do you specialize in?

We primarily specialize in luxury homes in Calabasas, Hidden Hills, and the surrounding areas.

Our office, located beside the Hidden Hills entrance gates, provides an ideal setting with an inviting community warmth and feel. We live and work among our clients—friends and families we do business with.

Why has your business been so successful?

Dana and Jeff are one of the country’s premiere real estate agent teams with a combined experience of more than 40 years. We are well-respected within the industry by agents and clients alike.

With an ever-growing team and tenacious commitment to the business, it is unimaginable the limits that our team will reach.

My deep understanding of domestic and international real estate ventures assists clients around the world.

COMPASS •••••••••••••

tomer & Isidora FRIDMAN 9454 Wilshire Blvd., 4th fl.

Beverly Hills 310.926.3777

W

ith over $3 billion in career sales and breaking the $400 million mark for closed sales in a single year, Tomer and Isidora Fridman continue to be ranked among America’s Best Real Estate Agents by Wall Street Journal/ Real Trends. Additionally, a celebrity and luxury real estate expert, Tomer has been named multiple times as one of the country’s Showbiz Real Estate Elite and as Hollywood Power Broker to the entertainment industry and Hollywood A-listers. Recognized authorities on real estate trends in affluent markets around the globe, Tomer and Isidora maintain a sterling reputation built on discretion, integrity, and an array of clientele, including high-profile celebrities, entertainment executives, international investors, and captains of industries. Having a deep understanding of domestic and international real estate ventures, Tomer and Isidora are trusted with the most luxury estate properties and large-scale projects throughout Los Angeles, Israel, and Europe.

thefridmangroup.com BRE #01750717 BRE #01192964

We have been fortunate enough to cover some of Los Angeles’ most prestigious estates—from Calabasas to Beverly Hills and every area in between. Some of our current exclusive listings are in Hidden Hills, Pacific Palisades, Bel Air, Trousdale Estates, Encino, and Hollywood Hills and include the largest lot in Holmby Hills, the Owlwood Estate, at ten acres for $115 million.

What do you feel is the most rewarding aspect of your work?

The most rewarding aspects of this career include knowing that we put 110%, 25 hours a day into exclusively representing our

clients and being able to work amongst some of the most impressive colleagues in the industry.

What do you want prospective clients to know about you?

We work hard to maintain our integrity and reputation by evolving with the market and providing the absolute best for our clients. This year’s adversity, for example, has proved that we are able to leverage the art of digital marketing, become creative with our outreach, and lean into our access to cutting-edge technology to stay abreast of market fluctuations and connected with our wide network, both domestically and internationally.

Photography by Sami Drazen

What areas are your specialties?

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Wish Sotheby’s International Realty •••••••••••••

PATTE GILBERT 4767 Park Granada, #101 Calabasas 818.515.5028 PATTEGILBERT.COM BRE #01144659

R

eal estate agent Patte Gilbert, with Wish Sotheby's International Realty, is one of Calabasas and Hidden Hills' most-selected agents. In her 30+ year career, she has maintained her popularity with clients as "the agent you can work with one-on-one." Her success lies in the fact that she works equally with both buyers and sellers so she always knows exactly how much her buyers should pay for a home and the amount a seller should ask. When not selling real estate, Patte likes to take one fabulous trip each year, play Mahjong, support the local schools, and work with a number of charities. In work as well as life, Patte's mantra has always been: "There are no problems, just solutions."

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Why have you been so successful?

What separates you from your competitors?

I’d like to think that my success lies in my honesty and integrity.

My clients prefer working with me because I always tell them what I think about a property—good, bad, or indifferent—as their long-term happiness with their home, and with me as their agent, is my ultimate goal.

Naturally, having great relationships with all of the agents, knowing my inventory, and being a skilled negotiator are also what make me a successful agent, but most importantly, success comes from loving what I do—and I do love my job!

For the past 30+ years, I have built my business working with past clients and referrals, which I continue to do day after day. But recently, I have also started working with Heidi Adams of Coldwell Banker, and together, we have created an entirely new concept in seller and buyer representation. Clients now get the huge benefit of having both of us: Two powerful agents, two powerful offices, one powerful pair. Imagine having us both and all the marketing that Wish Sotheby’s International Realty and Coldwell Banker Global Luxury can offer. No one else does this, and we have become very successful together in such a short amount of time using this platform to benefit all of our clients.

There are no problems, just solutions.

Why choose Heidi?

Simple: knowledge of the Calabasas neighborhoods. I know your area. I know your street. I probably know your house, selling many homes over and over again in my 32-year career.

When you choose me you get me, not an assistant or team member. I will be with you throughout the entire process, start to finish, whether buying or selling.

What makes you successful?

Being local, hands-on, and well-respected among my peers means finding that off-market home everyone is looking for and successfully selling it to my buyer. This constant commitment to my profession and my dedication to my clientele has meant I have

successfully remained one of the top agents in the community.

What sets you apart?

For the past 32 years, I have built my business by making my name a household word. Recently, in an effort to stand out and offer clients an option and set myself apart from my competition, I teamed up with another well-respected local agent, Patte Gilbert. Together we have created a new concept in seller and buyer representation. Clients now have the benefit of two powerful agents, two powerful offices, one powerful pair.We have become very successful together in a short amount of time by using this platform to benefit all of our clients.

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage •••••••••••••

Heidi Adams 23647 Calabasas Rd. Calabasas 818.461.2278 Heidi91302.com BRE #00997097

I know your area. I know your street.

I probably know your house.

S

ince 1988, Heidi has assisted hundreds of people with their real estate needs in and around Calabasas. Colleagues and clients alike respect her for her comprehensive knowledge of the local area and neighborhoods. Heidi strives to keep her clients informed so that they are able to make educated decisions. She is also a proud supporter of her local community and the Las Virgenes schools. Long immersed in the community where she has raised two children, Heidi has a unique familiarity with all facets of life in the area, which continues to attract an increasing number of well-known celebrities. Proud to be among an elite group of top producers, she ranks among her company’s top 10 agents at Coldwell Banker’s Calabasas office and consistently places in the top 2% companywide.

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Photography by JBriand Guzman

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES •••••••••••••

VALERIE PUNWAR 23925 PARK SORRENTO CALABASAS 818.618.8291 valeriepunwar.com BRE #01491245

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ward-winning realtor Valerie Punwar has become a consistent leader over the last decade and a half with a reputation for tenaciously protecting her clients’ interests with uncompromising integrity. One of the top-producing agents in the Berkshire Hathaway Calabasas office and recently named a LA Magazine Real Estate All Star, Valerie prides herself on successfully representing buyers and sellers throughout the L.A. area. A Calabasas resident for over 27 years, Valerie provides a wealth of knowledge about the local area and schools, specializing in marketing luxury properties in the Calabasas/ Hidden Hills/Agoura/Westlake Village/Thousand Oaks/Malibu areas. Growing up in Chicago, Valerie brings a strong Midwestern work ethic to her business. Valerie’s prior work in high-level TV-media sales took her to jobs from coast to coast, where she developed superior, decisive negotiating skills that translate perfectly to working in real estate.

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My clients come first, no matter what.

That is the key to my success.

Are there any new and exciting developments taking place in your business?

Recently, my sister, Marion Dole, joined my team, and I am so excited. Marion’s background in film and television make her a great addition. Marion brings the same Midwest background and tenacity to the team that we got from our hard-working immigrant parents.

Why should potential clients choose you?

Experience matters.

With over 15 years of

selling real estate, you know I will have your back. Whether you are buying a $400,000 condo or a $10 million dollar beach estate, your needs will always come first. As a seller, you will never find someone who works harder to sell your home with the most innovative marketing plan and expert negotiating skills.

What trends do you see for this year’s real estate market?

Who knew that in the middle of a global pandemic real estate would be HOT, HOT, HOT? Many buyers are

moving to our beautiful area to escape the small lots and small homes on the Westside. It’s truly a seller’s market, fueled also by historically low interest rates. I am very hopeful that the market stays strong, and I think it will due to the wonderful communities I represent here in Calabasas and nearby. Good schools, beautiful homes, and wonderful hiking, shopping, and dining keep people coming here.

Since March, we’ve helped dozens of our clients buy and sell homes. What was once a quick call and subsequent showing is now a much more detailed process. With our new industry guidelines, it is imperative to have the best possible representation to navigate through this new normal and the added requirements.

How have you been able to thrive through the chaos?

Along with taking every precaution and following every guideline, when the world shut down, we pushed harder. This has been a time for us to help our clients have financial success

in a sensational real estate market. We’ve been able to generate multiple-offer situations on almost every one of our listings. We feel this is due in large part to our successful systems that offer a proven track record.

What makes you an asset to your clients?

We take care of our clients no matter what. Our 38 years of combined experience in the real estate industry, along with our drive and determination for success, position our clients to achieve their goals when buying and selling a home. We know how to make things happen, and we don’t rest until we do.

Photography by Briand Guzman

How have the events of 2020 transformed your business?

The Improta Team at COMPASS •••••••••••••

jAson & Missy improta 5016 Parkway Calabasas Calabasas 818.584.6094 : 310.597.1914 improta.com BRE #01265975 BRE #01432200

The world is changing. Professionalism, experience, and caring are needed now more than ever.

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he world has changed since COVID and so has the real estate industry. There’s a reason realtors were deemed ‘essential workers’; the real estate market is too important to fail. As the whole world was put on pause, waiting for an update on the severity of the pandemic, The Improta Team kept going. Their clients called, and they answered.

In fact, they’ve been able to refine their best-inclass systems and process even further. They are trusted by the community, delivering on what they promise. Professionalism, experience and caring are needed now more than ever; this is why The Improta Team has continued to thrive.

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Photography by Russell Baer

Team Smith at Keller Williams Luxury International •••••••••••••

tracy & david smith 23975 Park Sorrento, #110 Calabasas 310.804.7079 : 310.480.7523 teamsmithca.com BRE #01503210

We’ve perfected our solution-based concept to guide buyers, sellers, and investors to achieve their goals.

BRE #01898036

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David and Tracy Smith, also known as “Team Smith,” are ranked consistently in the top 1% of realtor teams nationwide. Team Smith has earned multi­ year membership into the exclusive Keller Williams Luxury Estates division based on its success of serving the needs of its clients in the ever-changing real estate market. David and Tracy are highly respected among their peers for their integrity and have a long history of establishing strong relationships with their clients which has led to a vast number of referrals for buyers and sellers in the community. In their personal lives, they are involved in many community organizations and charities, including breast cancer awareness organizations, the March of Dimes, and the Veterans of America.

They are proud parents of two teenage girls and love raising their family in Calabasas.

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How do clients benefit from your knowledge on the community and local culture?

We have lived locally for over 14 years and take pride in sharing our personal knowledge and experience.

We work with numerous buyers from other parts of L.A., especially the Westside. Since we made the same journey years ago, we can provide valuable insight on schools, movers, and the different lifestyle of all our communities.

What makes you among the best in real estate?

Mindset and attitude.

We are solution based and concept focused to guide buyers, sellers, and investors to help them achieve their goals. With sellers, we focus on a pricing strategy. With buyers, it’s about helping them narrow down what’s most important in a new home. With investors, it’s all about the numbers and whether or not they work now and in the future.

What would you like potential clients to know about your team?

We are here to serve and bring value. We share our knowledge and expertise based on experience in this market so our clients can make the best financial decisions. We have a strong team of associates, but the personal touch is what they will get from everyone on Team Smith CA.

Garbell group at Keller Williams Luxury International •••••••••••••

MARC & Laura GARBELL 23975 Park Sorrento, #110 Calabasas 818.625.8949 : 818.468.4042 calabasasrealestateagent.com BRE #00995378 BRE #01402751

Describe what your company does.

We represent buyers and sellers with their residential real estate needs and specialize in Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Malibu, and the surrounding areas.

Whether you're relocating or need an analysis of the value of your home or the current status of the local real estate market, we’re here to assist you.

What separates you from your competitors?

Our clients’ needs come first, and we believe in knowing their expectations, solving their problems, and protecting their interests at all times.

Whether it's getting top dollar when selling their home or finding the home of their dreams, we are readily available and will work tirelessly to get the

job done. And once an escrow is closed, a percentage of all our sales go to charity through KW Cares.

How do clients benefit from your knowledge on the community?

When I became a realtor in 2001, The Oaks was just beginning to be developed, with exception of the two streets previously developed in the mid1990s. I knew The Oaks was going to be an exceptional place to live and was determined to make it an important part of my business. I know all the streets, builders, models, floor plans and have good idea of where the values are and why. I’ve done numerous sales in The Oaks representing buyers, sellers, tenants, and landlords and take pride in offering expert advice.

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Our clients’ needs come first, and we believe in knowing their expectations, solving their problems, and protecting their interests at all times.

began my real estate career in 2001 and have been a constant top producer and a recipient of numerous awards for my production. I always loved real estate and wanted a career that allowed me to work hard assisting clients achieve their dreams and at the same time have the flexibility to spend time with my family. I am excited that my wife, Laura Garbell, has joined me to create the Garbell Group through Keller Williams Realty. Laura was previously a very successful VP of a private mortgage banking institution for 15 years, and together, we have over 30 years of experience helping clients achieve their dreams of home ownership.

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Photography by Marvin Steindler

GALUZ GROUP at KW LUXURY INTERNATIONAL : KW Commercial •••••••••••••

YANA & ALEX GALUZ 23975 Park Sorrento, #110 Calabasas 310.595.5522 galuzgroup.com BRE #01454066 BRE #01291486

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os Angeles natives residing in Hidden Hills, Yana and Alex Galuz are a husband-and-wife team specializing in global, luxury homes and estates.

Known for providing in-depth knowledge and strategic analysis of market trends, their success is their ability to deliver beyond the transaction of selling properties. It begins in helping clients discover their new life that awaits in their new home.

Real estate is in their DNA. Alex brings 20 years of commercial and residential real estate experience; providing a unique perspective to a frequently emotion-driven process, while Yana’s background in architecture and design allows a fresh way of showcasing and featuring bespoke estate properties. Whether across the street or across the globe, the couple delivers the utmost competence, exclusivity, and passion for all that they do.

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Our ability to evolve as our industry innovates allows us to bring the latest and most current tools to our clients.

Why have you been successful?

Our success lies in our many years of experience, in-depth market knowledge, hard work, and exemplary service.

Our seamless teamwork along with the highest level of handcrafted service ensures the best possible outcomes for our clients. Our ability to evolve as our industry changes and innovates allows us to stay at the top of our game and exceed our clients expectations while utilizing the tools of new

technologies, concierge services, and individually crafted marketing plans.

What about your business would you like potential clients to know?

Sophisticated systems and marketing technology are just the starting points. Every office has them, and while we believe ours are superior, clients choose us because we are their ultimate listing tool. We marry knowledge of the market, innovative

strategies, and personal interest for the community we serve. Selling Calabasas and Hidden Hills is selling a lifestyle.

We live and work in the community we serve among our clients, friends, and families.

We take a personal interest in the wellbeing of our community. A significant portion of our business are return clients and referrals. We make it our priority to exceed expectations.

What sets you apart from other Realtors in the market?

I've been specializing in gated, luxury properties since 1995, so I have a deep breadth of knowledge in this area. But I also have investment properties in Malibu and a lot of experience in other areas of the Valley, and I list and sell condos to castles from Studio City to Westlake Village.

What do you want prospective clients to know about you?

I'd want them to know that I am totally committed and that no one will work harder for them.

From start to finish, every detail is clearly communicated to provide

them with the peace of mind they need to make informed decisions in a timely manner.

Why have you been so successful?

With my extensive knowledge, I offer my clients an exceptional depth of information and outstanding service. There is nothing more gratifying than helping families sell their home and find their new dream home. It's about building relationships and getting my clients the best deal possible. A philosophy of honesty and hard work attributes to my outstanding reputation and success. That's why so much of my business is repeat and referrals.

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Photography by Marvin Steindler

I'm passionate about my work and get the best results for my buyers and sellers!

arbara has lived in Calabasas for over 25 years and has specialized in gated luxury estate communities. She was one of the original homeowners in Mountain View Estates and has long held the position of being the #1 Resident Realtor ® in this premiere and esteemed gated Calabasas community. She is intimately familiar with every home on every street, where she also serves on the architectural committee. Barbara is consistently in Coldwell Banker's top 4% worldwide. She is known for her strong negotiation skills, proven results, and hundreds of highly satisfied clients. Her remarkable success rate and proven sales record help her clients net top dollar. With hundreds of millions of dollars in residential real estate sales, Barbara has a stellar reputation.

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage •••••••••••••

BARBARA ALPERT 23647 Calabasas Rd. 818.625.1377 BRE #01199909

Photography by Marvin Steindler

Calabasas

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I help my clients gain access to private off-market properties to ensure they find the perfect home.

Beverly & Co. Luxury Properties •••••••••••••

Anat "Cookie" Erster

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nat ‘Cookie’ Erster has been a Calabasas resident for 30 years and has been a consistent top producer throughout her career of more than 18 years. Her commitment to excellence, combined with her expertise, knowledge, and aggressive marketing techniques, attracts people looking to work with an honest, dedicated professional that works in all Calabasas neighborhoods and price ranges. Anat represents a wide range of clientele, including high-profile celebrities, health professionals, executives, entrepreneurs, investors, and many others. Her business is built on referrals, which is a true testament to her outstanding performance and results. Professionally, she is known for her caring demeanor, impeccable communication, and artful negotiation skills. In her personal time, she loves traveling domestically and internationally, spending time with her family and enjoying the company of her closest friends in a variety of activities.

818.943.8001 CalabasasRE.com BRE #01313529

I’m extremely committed to my clients and diligently work to make every transaction as easy and seamless as possible. While this is my career and how I make a living, I’m not a commission-driven agent; I find more satisfaction in helping my clients achieve their dreams and goals.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?

I’ve been in this business for a really long time, and many of my longtime clients have turned into lifelong friends. Meeting new people, forming lasting relationships, and seeing the excitement my clients experience after a successful transaction is golden to me.

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What are some obstacles your clients face today and how do you help them navigate these challenges?

In the current real estate market, you will see homes selling off-market, which means that buyers may not have access to exclusive inventory if they are not working with a well-connected professional. I help my clients gain access to private, off-market properties to ensure they find the perfect home. My clients can also take advantage of my vast networking - locally, nationwide, and internationally - to bring them the highest offer with ideal terms and conditions on any property they are looking to sell.

Photograpy By Michael Helms

What should potential clients know about you?

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage •••••••••••••

Stephanie Shanfeld Shari Huntington 23647 Calabasas Rd. Calabasas 818.521.8689 : 818.635.0310 stephanieandshari.com BRE #01947954 BRE #01147237

It’s simple...we love what we do professionally, and our passion attracts people to us. We think outside the box with each client, and we often get praised by our clients and colleagues for our creativity and resourcefulness.

What’s the most gratifying part of your work?

It’s not about the transactions—it’s about people and building trust and establishing relationships. We learned long ago that the real estate industry is based on building long-term connections. Because of our involvement within our community and beyond, we have been

successful joining sellers and buyers, many times before a property goes to market.

Photography by Marvin Steindler

What’s the secret behind your success?

What separates you from your competitors?

We are transparent and direct with our clients, which means sometimes telling them things they don’t always want to hear. We form a strong bond of trust from the start. We also believe in giving back to the community by donating to the schools. As relocation and luxury specialists we are blessed to work with clients all over the country. Because we are a team, one of us is always available, allowing us to be hands-on with our clients instead of delegating to others.

We are on top of the current guidelines and protocol and have proven even during a pandemic that we can get our clients record selling prices.

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Stephanie Shanfeld and Shari Huntington make up a dynamic team in the real estate industry. They were ranked the #1 team at Coldwell Banker (CB) Calabasas in 2019, and year-todate, they continue to hold the #1 rank. They are also ranked as the #8 top producing CB team in the greater L.A. area.

They met 15 years ago while running the PFC (Parent Faculty Club) at Chaparral Elementary School, became instant friends, and have worked/volunteered together ever since.

Both have lived in Calabasas for 20+ years, are immersed in the community professionally and personally, and bring different strengths to the partnership. During their 30 years of combined real estate and appraisal experience, they have learned to adapt to current trends and business practices, including social media, market trends, financial qualifications and contracts.

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Photography by Briand Guzman

KELLER WILLIAMS ESTATES •••••••••••••

lisa gutman 30700 Russell Ranch Rd., #200 Westlake Village 818.535.0862

I am readily available and will work tirelessly to get the job done.

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or more than 30 years, Lisa Gutman has chased down runaway horses, placed celebrities into properties, and sold some of the most expensive properties in town, all in a day’s work in Hidden Hills and Calabasas. She has received nearly every top honor in her field: Platinum Club, Hall of Fame, and Lifetime Achievement Award are just a few. Lisa treats each and every client with dignity and respect, and they never feel pushed or rushed. She considers herself an area expert and always has a pulse on the community. Do you have a home that’s hard to sell? She has a buyer! Looking for a home that’s not available? She’ll find it! Lisa looks forward to helping each client with all real estate needs.

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Why have you been so successful?

I take a hand-holding approach when it comes to real estate, I specialize in one client at a time. My personal touch to real estate has literally opened doors. About 80% of my business comes from repeat clients and referrals. I have dedicated almost 30 years of my life to helping people buy and sell their most coveted possessions.

I understand how stressful this process can be and my goal is

hiddenhills.com BRE #00966153

to make it as easy and joyful as possible. I go above and beyond what is considered the norm in real estate. I do everything possible to make the buying and selling process a wonderful experience.

If you’re happy, I know and appreciate that you will refer me to your friends and family.

Why should potential clients choose you?

When you choose to work with me, you get me, not an assistant or

team member. I will be with you for the entire buying/selling process, from start to close... and after!

What do you feel is the most rewarding aspect of your work?

Nothing brings me more joy than seeing my clients happy. To know that I’ve been a part of that is an incredible feeling!

Photography by Marvin Steindler

Keller Williams Luxury International •••••••••••••

DENISE MARKS 23975 Park Sorrento, #110 Calabasas 818.292.5340

Twenty years and hundreds of transactions have taught me that attention to detail is everything!

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master negotiator, Denise is celebrating 20 years in real estate in 2020, bringing her passion and professionalism to every property her clients have bought or sold in her native Los Angeles. In addition to her Southern California clients, Denise represents both national and international clients ranging from bi-coastal homeowners to builder/developers. As a result, Denise and her staff are dedicated to researching their clients’ needs in order to identify neighborhoods that meet clients’ price, lifestyle, school, investment, and community requirements. As the co-owner of two commercial real estate companies, Denise brings an extraordinary array of resources and analytical tools to her residential real estate clients. Her extensive knowledge of construction and design make her a great advisor for clients looking for a perfect buildable lot or fixer or an opportunity to build an ADU.

denisemarks.com BRE #03100442

What happens when a house needs to be renovated before a sale?

How do clients benefit from your 20 years of residential real estate experience?

Our dedicated Concierge Service can help design renovations, get bids, and advance the funds needed to prepare a home for sale. Whether it is a cosmetic touch up or a full-blown remodel, our Concierge Service provides everything our clients need from kitchen and bathroom remodels to new flooring, from deep cleaning to painting, and from landscaping to professional staging.

Whether buying or selling, my first duty is protecting my clients’ interests. Beyond the numbers and the contracts, experience has taught me how to negotiate difficult issues in order to hold transactions together.

The difference between a good and a great agent is how they handle inspections that reveal problems, title defects, or properties that don’t appraise.

Helping buyers and

sellers with these issues is both a passion and a challenge.

Where do your clients come from?

Being primarily referral based, most of my business is either with repeat clients, client referrals, or friends and family. The process of buying or selling a home builds a trusting bond that can last a lifetime. I am honored that many of my real estate clients have become my closest friends.

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The Agency •••••••••••••

MICHAEL BLOOM 23622 Calabasas Rd., #148 Calabasas 818.207.2088 michaelbloomhomes.com BRE #01188440

How did your early years prepare you for being a realtor?

How do you give back to the community?

I pride myself on being a true local L.A. real estate agent. I grew up in Hidden Hills and graduated from Calabasas High School in 1986. Living in Hidden Hills, going to school in Calabasas, and formerly working in Woodland Hills has given me a unique perspective on the best local areas to canvas in my search for homes and properties. I am constantly immersed in all three of these real estate communities and have become an expert in the area. I’m honored to be part of The Agency, which is one of the most outstanding firms in the country.

I remain deeply involved with our local community—I’m an ambassador to the Calabasas Chamber of Commerce, a board member for the Foundation for the Las Virgenes Schools, and Commissioner of Public Safety Hidden Hills. I’ve also served as Los Angeles County Commissioner of Public Social Services for more than a decade.

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What unique skills do you provide your clients?

I’m fluent in both Spanish and Japanese. I have also acquired a strong set of negotiation tactics that are crucial when helping my clients find their “dream” home!

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Nothing gives me more pleasure than helping my clients find their dream home in this community I love.”

nown for his entrepreneurial spirit, strong work ethic, and genuine love for people, Michael Bloom brings a detailed knowledge of L.A.’s Hidden Hills and Woodland Hills neighborhoods to The Agency in Calabasas. Michael began his real estate career as an intern at Grubb and Ellis in 1993 and then at Prudential California Realty in Woodland Hills from 1994 to 1998. A Hidden Hills resident since 1977, Michael obtained his real estate license in 1995 and was promptly named “Rookie of the Year” for his quick success. “Real estate requires creativity, salesmanship, follow-up, patience, perseverance as well as a ‘never give up’ attitude,” Michael says. “I love being a part of a major decision in people’s lives—it’s an honor to provide guidance, and I do whatever it takes to help my clients achieve their goals.”

How do you give back to your community?

I am so grateful for all that this community has given to me, professionally and personally. It is important to me to return the gratitude through donations, and I am dedicated to volunteering my time.

I have been on the Willow Elementary PFA for five years, where I am currently serving as treasurer. I am also a board member for Westlake Agoura Girls Softball, where I currently serve as director of fundraising. I am so proud to be a part of both these organizations as they have given so much to our local kids.

What do you feel is the most rewarding aspect of your work?

Being a part of my clients’ real estate goals. Whether it is a young couple who just got married, investors growing their wealth, babies on the way, couples downsizing — I am honored to be involved in these milestones that make my profession so incredibly rewarding.

Why have you been so successful?

It is quite simple: hard work. I started knowing no task was too small, and I understood I was not too good for anything or anyone. I believe that work ethic makes a difference to buyers and sellers. To this day, I am involved in each step of my clients’ transactions.

KELLER WILLIAMS WESTLAKE VILLAGE •••••••••••••

KRISTINA GOLDMAN 30700 RUSSELL RANCH RD., #200 WESTLAKE VILLAGE 818.732.5153 KRISTINAGOLDMANHOMES.COM BRE #01963229

An authentic work ethic, cultivated by the reward of seeing my clients’ reach new milestones, is the key to every successful transaction.”

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ristina’s love for the real estate business shines through every transaction. With a reputation focused on thorough communication, collaborative negotiation, and superior attention to detail, Kristina meets the diverse needs and expectations of all home buyers, sellers, and investors. Her ultimate priority is to create a trusting, symbiotic relationship with those she works with. Tenacity and determination to build and maintain relationships is the foundation of her work ethic as a trustworthy and dependable real estate agent. This, matched with knowledge, experience, and integrity, makes Kristina an asset in all her clients’ real estate needs.

Kristina lives in Agoura Hills with her husband, Noel, and daughters, Emma, 10, and Hannah, 8.

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There is no secret to success.

It is a result of passion, compassion, persistence, and hard work.

COMPASS •••••••••••••

ERICA FIELDS 5016 N. Parkway Calabasas Calabasas

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ith over 21 years of experience and born and raised in Calabasas, Erica is a true native to the West San Fernando Valley. With her infectious energy, deep-rooted knowledge of the standard and luxury home markets, close relationships with agents, and complex transactional background, Erica brings her clients a combination of expertise, confidence, and service that is rarely found. To expand her knowledge further, Erica also worked in other facets of the business as an escrow officer and with a prestigious law firm in the foreclosure and shortsale divisions. This experience and knowledge has helped her and her clients tremendously during transactions on a day-today basis. This background is important and unique, making her more valuable in the home buying and selling process.

EricaFieldsHome.com BRE #01333446

What separates you from your competitors?

Well, that’s just it, I don’t look at any realtors as my competitors—I look at them as part of my village.

Having the established agent relationships I’ve made is what has helped me win almost every multiple-offer situation. Maybe my perception of how I view other realtors is exactly what separates me.

Why have you been so successful?

My clients love my energy and respect my advice, guidance, and ability to make great business decisions. You have to work with someone you trust explicitly. I am here to guide my clients through and

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through, always with confidence, always with compassion, and always with their best interests in mind.

What do you feel is the most rewarding aspect of your work?

I love people and I love houses, so naturally I am rewarded daily with what I do! The joy I get out of making people’s dreams a reality is above anything else I could have ever dreamed of myself. To see my clients’ reactions and hear their consistent gratitude after each purchase or sale fills me up in a way that’s indescribable.

My clients’ happiness is always my reward.

Photography by Katherine Valencia

818.822.8835

1) I am an exceptional problem solver and work well with others. The real estate process inevitably has twists and turns, so that one skill alone can be the difference between a property closing or falling out of escrow. 2) I understand that a good agent must be a good listener. I apply that skill to better understand clients’ needs and better reach their goals. 3) As the market and marketing of real estate evolves, I use my experience to create a multi-layered approach to marketing properties with a listing-to-sales ratio over 90%. 4) I prepare properties to come to market and work with homebuyers to find

that perfect property.

These are two things I love to do.

What should potential clients know about you?

I have always thought of my work as taking care of people and their properties—start to finish. I always give my best advice, like it or not, because I care.

That’s my job. I have mutual respect for my peers, and I am respected by my clients as someone who will always put them first.

My work ethic developed in my career as a collegiate All-American and professional soccer player, with many years of hard work and focus that allow me to bring unmatched leadership skills to my clients every day.

Photography by Marvin Steindler

Why have you been so successful?

CORE REAL ESTATE GROUP •••••••••••••

KEVIN CORDASCO 250 N. Canon Dr. Beverly Hills 310.308.9539 : 818.726.8791 cordascoestates.com BRE #00969966

I have always thought of my work as taking care of people and their properties — start to Finish.

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evin Cordasco of CORE Real Estate Group is celebrating his 34th year of award-winning service in the real estate industry. A 20-year resident of Calabasas, Kevin actively represents the people, properties, and homebuyers of his community. His hands-on, one-on-one approach and genuine interest in every transaction sets him apart from other agents, especially those merging to groups or teams, continuously making him one of the most recommended names in the industry. Kevin has been named a Top 100 agent in Southern California numerous times and is consistently ranked in the Top 5% worldwide. He is a supporter of our schools and their programs, as well as the founder of the Kevin Cordasco Foundation: Something Yellow, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting children and families affected by childhood cancer.

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Photography by Kem West Photography

Coldwell Banker Realty •••••••••••••

patti mardell 23647 Calabasas Rd. Calabasas 818.262.3787 themardellgroup.com BRE #01944823

What area is your specialty?

Negotiation is an art and a science which I have beautifully mastered throughout my lifetime. I earned a Masters and Bachelor of Science from USC in Accounting, as well as my MCNE (Master Certified Negotiation Expert).

What separates you from your competitors?

Delivering only excellence. I have extensive knowledge and understanding of many markets. I know many neighborhoods throughout Los Angeles and have extensive knowledge of contracts. I instantly connect with people.

I understand that trust and respect are earned. I was born and raised in Wisconsin to a hardworking family that instilled ethics and integrity.

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How do you give back to your community?

As a Calabasas PRE Commissioner, we were instrumental in recently developing a dog park for the residents and their four-legged friends.

As the President of the Oak Park Calabasas Condo Community (OPC), our board has been instrumental in making major improvements, thereby increasing property values at OPC. As a board member of the Calabasas Park Homeowners Association, I have firsthand knowledge of Calabasas Park and the lake. I strongly believe giving back to my community is important. I take great pride in being a trusted community leader and having a wealth of knowledge.

I take pride in being a trusted community leader and a wealth of knowledge.

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atti Mardell sold 34 homes for me last year (2017). I have been involved in the real estate business as an attorney for the last 28 years, and she is one of the most exceptional real estate agents I have ever worked with. Her ability to negotiate and communicate effectively with different types of people with different needs made for seamless closings and happy buyers. She has tremendous insight into the real estate market. Her knowledge and intuition, combined with her very strong work ethic, are phenomenal assets. She went the extra mile on every transaction she handled for me without my asking. I can recommend her without qualification to both sellers and buyers of real property.” ~Paul K., Esq.~

Photography by Marvin Steindler

the cohan team at Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage •••••••••••••

Michelle Lavin Cohan Semira Knight 23647 Calabasas Rd. Calabasas 818.335.9777 : 310.927.4004 thecohanteam.com BRE #01208350 BRE #01491785

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ith Michelle’s background as an attorney and Semira’s in finance and marketing, clients who choose The Cohan Team for their real estate needs are offered an enhanced experience. As an attorney, Michelle has intimate knowledge of contracts, negotiations, and strategy and has earned top agent awards in her more than 20 years in the real estate business. Semira offers the perfect complement, developing marketing strategies that are smart and effective. Together, they are passionate about what they do and are dedicated to ensuring successful transactions for their clients while always providing service that goes above and beyond. The Cohan Team prides itself on dealing with clients honestly and fairly while creating relationships that last far beyond the transaction. As they like to say, “We work hard to make real estate easier.”

Our combined legal, finance, and marketing skills has been beneficial to our clients

Why are you so successful?

We provide our clients with stellar service. They deserve nothing less!

With over 30 years of combined experience, our backgrounds in law, marketing, and finance and our expertise in contracts, negotiations, and relationship building has allowed us to provide our clients with exactly that. We pride ourselves with offering full-scale services. Our goal is to understand our clients’ needs and make their experience as stress free and seamless as possible.

How do clients benefit from your knowledge on the community and local culture?

With seven children between our two families, we have broad knowledge of the community, local schools, extracurricular activities, and more. We love our community and are both very involved.

From volunteering to community service and our relationships with local government officials, we provide valuable information and useful insights to living in this area.

What are the biggest obstacles your clients face today and how do you help them navigate through those challenges?

One of the biggest challenges is low inventory. Having been in this business for a long time and creating longtime relationships with other agents, we have access to information on both upcoming and pocket listings. These relationships bode very well for our clients in finding their dream homes before they go on the market.

Calabasas Style 159

Welcome to

MOAB Utah’s Gateway to Adventure

By Lori Berezin Photography by M.C.

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F

or spectacular red-rock adventures, visit Moab.

Visit a maze of canyons and stone monoliths at Canyonlands,

Utah’s gateway city features two breathtaking na-

Utah’s largest national park. The landscape looks more like

tional parks, Canyonlands and Arches. It’s about

Mars, but it’s located merely 32 miles from Moab. Follow High-

a 13-hour drive from Los Angeles, so plan to stop

way 191 north to Highway 313 and then drive southwest 22 miles

along the way. After arriving in eastern Utah, travel

to the park. In less than an hour, you can hike, drive, canoe, or

south from Highway 70 towards Highway 191. You’ll pass ex-

bike back in time through millions of years of geology. If you’re

its to various dinosaur stomping grounds where you can hike

lucky, you may spot rock squirrels, lizards, chipmunks, hawks,

amid these ancient giants’ footsteps. Once you reach the

eagles, mule deer, desert cottontail rabbits, and more. In the

small town of Moab, enjoy modern conveniences, including

evening, keep your eyes open for coyotes, black bears, elk,

a variety of charming hotels, shops, galleries, and restaurants.

foxes, bobcats, and cougars who also call this arid area home.

The real show takes place outside town, surrounded by some

Two rivers, the Colorado and Green, flow through these ancient

of the planet’s most stunning red-rock scenery. Just five

lands, forming deep, rugged canyons. Perfect for canoeing

miles from Moab, Arches National Park offers amazing views

or kayaking, calm flat waters contrast 14 miles of exhilarating

of over 2,000 arches. Drive to myriad viewpoints within the

whitewater rapids in Cataract Canyon. The best time to visit the

park for short hikes, such as the Park Avenue Trail, or longer

area is spring and fall, when temperatures usually hover between

ones, including the world-renowned Delicate Arch, soar-

70 and 90 degrees. Visit discovermoab.com to learn more

ing 480 remarkable feet high amid azure-blue desert skies.

about your next socially distant, out-of-this-world vacation. n

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WHAT’S NEW IN

Real Estate “Owning a home is a keystone of wealth -both financial affluence and emotional security.”

— Suze Orman

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4286 Via Mira Monte

Via Mira Monte

2,765

$1,150,000

$1,150,000

4602 Cielo

The Colony

3,078

$1,349,888

$1,320,000

4304 Park Fortuna

Classic Calabasas

3,206

$1,275,000

$1,220,000

23296 Park Ensenada

Classic Calabasas

2,788

$1,499,000

$1,650,000

23204 Park Esperanza

Classic Calabasas

2,904

$1,695,000

$1,760,000

23206 Park Esperanza

Classic Calabasas

3,391

$1,875,000

$1,875,000

23241 Park Corniche

Bellagio

3,788

$1,789,000

$1,730,000

3722 Calle Jazmin

Calabasas Park Estates

1,575

$1,099,000

$1,060,000

3451 Daniella

Calabasas Park Estates

2,840

$1,499,999

$1,545,000

24862 Paseo Primario

Calabasas Park Estates

4,020

$1,738,000

$1,670,000

3670 Paseo Primario

Calabasas Park Estates

3,558

$1,800,000

$1,800,000

3806 Paseo Primario

Calabasas Park Estates

3,584

$2,199,000

$2,182,000

22684 Jameson

Mulwood

2,382

$1,299,000

$1,265,000

22705 Sparrowdell

Mulwood

3,180

$1,549,999

$1,550,000

22224 Cairnloch

Mulholland Heights

3,526

$1,799,000

$1,875,000

5527 Newcastle

Mountain View Estates

6,610

$2,580,000

$2,440,888

5309 Fremantle

Mountain View Estates

6,158

$3,100,000

$3,050,000

5711 Limoges

Mont Calabasas

7,101

$2,449,500

$2,449,500

5168 Garrett

Mureau Estates

5,676

$3,495,000

$3,025,000

4130 Vicasa

Calabasas Country Estates

4,441

$1,945,000

$1,920,000

23565 Park South

Park South Estates

9,119

$6,950,000

$6,570,000

25240 Prado De La Puma

The Oaks

6,405

$3,495,000

$3,385,000

23747 Oakfield

Hidden Hills

3,658

$1,799,000

$1,800,000

5791 Jed Smith

Hidden Hills

3,132

$2,549,000

$2,390,000

24907 Kit Carson

Hidden Hills

5,023

$3,495,000

$3,300,000

5287 Round Meadow

Hidden Hills

6,100

$3,850,000

$3,800,000

5727 Jed Smith

Hidden Hills

13,460

$14,495,000

$13,500,000

6051 Spring Valley

Hidden Hills

13,400

$15,950,000

$15,000,000

*Sales represent closed transactions between 9/11/2020-10/9/2020 (Standard Sales only)

Š 2020 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties (BHHSCP) is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC. Properties may or may not be listed by the office/agent presenting this information. Display of MLS data is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed accurate by the MLS. Broker DRE 01317331.

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