Ventura Blvd December 2019

VENTURABLVD.GOLDENSTATE.IS

SIX DOLLARS

DECEMBER 2019

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

DECEMBER NOCHEBUENA FEATURING EUGENIA LEÓN BALLET FOLKLÓRICO DE LOS ÁNGELES MARIACHI GARIBALDI DE JAIME CUÉLLAR Celebrate the holidays with La Diva de México.

Sat Dec 14 | 3PM & 8PM

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VOCTAVE THE SPIRIT OF THE SEASON All-American acapella group brings holiday carols and favorites.

Sun Dec 15 | 3PM

USHER IN THE SEASON WITH THIS HOLIDAY CLASSIC Sat Dec 7 | 3PM & 8PM Sun Dec 8 | 3PM

JANUARY LUCIANA SOUZA THE BOOK OF LONGING FEATURING CHICO PINHEIRO and SCOTT COLLEY Onstage Sessions Jazz Club Vocal jazz veteran performs her album inspired by Leonard Cohen.

Fri Jan 17 | 8PM Sat Jan 18 | 8PM ROYAL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA PINCHAS ZUKERMAN, PRINCIPAL GUEST CONDUCTOR and VIOLIN SOLOIST Beethoven Symphony No. 7 One of the world’s most sought-after musicians conducts and performs.

Fri Jan 24 | 8PM CIRQUE ÉLOIZE HOTEL Do not miss this dazzling circus troupe.

Sat Jan 25 | 8PM Sun Jan 26 | 3PM BALLET FOLCLÓRICO NACIONAL DE MÉXICO DE SILVIA LOZANO This thrilling group presents authentic regional dances of Mexico.

Thu Jan 30 | 8PM

TheSorayaStage | TheSoraya.org | (818) 677-3000

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22 HOLIDAY STAYCATION Local amusements for your time off

30 SILVER LININGS PLAYLIST Special-needs attorney Georgianna Junco-Kelman and her rapper son, Brandon

38 HITCHING POST Little Brown Church in Studio City

62 HOMELESS IN THE VALLEY Why we are seeing an increase—

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and what’s being done to help.

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76

THE SAUCE

THE PRODUCERS

48

Former Hollywood executive

THE COMEBACK OF GIOVANNI BOLLA

Rich Frank on his family’s

A former caterer-to-the-stars

award-winning wine

reinvents himself with his

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knock-your-socks-off tiramisu

SEEN 56

Faces spotted around town

BRIGHT IDEAS Add a spritz of citrus cheer

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to your holiday spread

WALK THE LINE Getting adventurous

AND THEN SOME...

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in Patagonia

PROFILES Vanguards of the Valley

89 REAL ESTATE

COVER

Spectacular local listings Illustrated by

114 LAST WORD Creating holiday traditions of one’s own.

Yasmine Kahsai

THE PRIMARY CARE YOU TRUST, HERE IN THE VALLEY. With multiple Cedars-Sinai locations in the Valley, our primary care doctors are bringing expert care closer to you and your family. From checkups to consultations that guide you to specialized care, trust Cedars-Sinai to help manage your health, right in your neighborhood.

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ENCINO • NORTH HOLLYWOOD • SHERMAN OAKS • TARZANA • VAN NUYS

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

PUBLISHER

Linda Grasso

Robin Sanders 424-220-6340 | robin@goldenstate.is

SENIOR ART DIRECTOR Michelle Villas

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VB’S THE SAUCE ENEWSLETTER EDITOR

Jared Sayers

Karen Young CONTRIBUTORS Corry Cook, Heather David, Bonnie Graves, Kathleen Laccinole, Hadley Hall Meares, Kara Mickelson, Phil Shuman, Karen Young PHOTOGRAPHERS Michael Becker, Lucy Burk, Matthew Cooke, Shane O’Donnell

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Photo by Mercie Ghimire

HOLIDAY SHOPPING: While you’re here, shop Audrey’s Museum Store for unique holiday gifts and more!

Sunday, December 15 11:00 am–4:00 pm Celebrate the Jewish festival of light with music, dance, storytelling, art making, and tasty treats! Get on your feet for musical performances by Klezmer Juice, Zingarella, and more. Families of all backgrounds welcome!

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EDITOR’S LETTER

Last year, for the holiday season, the stars aligned. We had both our boys (then 20 and 22) home and both agreed to go on vacation with us—even agreeing to miss the parties on New Year’s Eve. After a late start and hours of combing the internet, we zeroed in on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. I found what looked like a charming house on the water with breathtaking views—and another family we are friends with happened to be staying on nearby Harbour Island. Family time plus socializing with friends. A win/win—right?

Turned out to be a complete misfire—straight out of National Lampoon’s Vacation. Although the photos online showed a loft with twin beds, the bedding turned out to be a solo mattress on the floor and an early model blow-up mattress which, we soon discovered, had a hole in it. And the low ceiling made it impossible for my sons to stand up.

While I had envisioned us playing games at night and reading all the books we’d brought, lighting was woefully inadequate. We ended up tying an outdoor spotlight on a curtain rod just so we could get around.

Another problem: Jacked-up holiday prices made eating out ridiculously expensive. I’d had enough after two mediocre meals both of which—much to my horror—cost $500 for four. (One was Ragu-topped pasta on New Year’s Eve; the other was essentially bar food.) And I simply could not find a decent grocery store on the island.

Visiting our friends on the neighboring island also proved challenging. The roads in Eleuthera are really rudimentary, and there’s zero lighting. Nighttime driving—bombing in and out of potholes—was scary.

After all that, it should come as no surprise that we’ve all decided to stay put this year. So when I was thinking of articles to include in this holiday issue, the first thing that came to mind was a “Staycation” piece (page 22), listing fun things to do on our home turf. From learning to bake like a professional to climbing aboard a Pan Am jet, we share some wonderful ways to keep amused during your downtime.

Since we are homebound, I’m going full Martha (Stewart) on decor and I’m planning on cooking some adventurous dishes. (Can’t wait to hear my mom decry: “What about the creamed onions?”) I’m definitely going to tap some of the innovative suggestions from professional chef and food stylist Kara Mickelson on page 56. Her Bundt cake, adorned with peak season oranges, looks positively divine. Wish we’d had one on Eleuthera.

Linda Grasso Editor-in-Chief

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

PHOTOGRAPHED BY AMY NEUSINGER

Happy Holidays, everyone!

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Holiday Staycation HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS? FROM HANDS-ON EXPERIENCES FOR THE KIDS TO A DECADENT, THROWBACK EVENING ABOARD A REAL PAN AM JET, HERE ARE A FEW LOCAL OUTINGS TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR DOWNTIME. Written by Heather David

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FOR FAMILIES

Make a design following step-by-step instructions or make your own custom creation.

SWEET IMMERSION

Sure, you’ll find a few serious bakers, but generally

At Duff’s Cakemix in Tarzana (18734 Ventura Blvd.), it’s

the vibe is light and fun. Prepare to laugh a lot and even

all about decorating your cake and eating it too. Created

sneak a few sweets as the artistic process unfolds.

by Food Network star and cake decorating guru Duff Goldman, this unique bake shop gives kids (and adults) the

GO GREEN

chance to design and decorate the cake of their dreams.

On a charming row of shops in the heart of Valley Village,

Customers begin by receiving a fully baked cake or

you’ll find the newly debuted Greenwood Shop (12441 1/2

cupcakes, and then the imagination can go wild. All kinds

W. Magnolia Blvd.). It features bespoke home decor items

of clever adornments and professional tools allow you to

and accessories—everything from clean-burning candles

bring your edible masterpiece to life. Duff’s also has a

to handmade tapestry wall hangings. You instantly feel

colorful array of candies in every shape and size as well

like you’ve been transported to one of those hip stores

as a multitude of frostings and fondants (hardened icing

in downtown Ojai. But Greenwood is more than a shop;

that can be molded into nearly any decorative shape).

it’s also a plant nursery, with a do-it-yourself feature—a

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“potting bar.” Customers pick out a container (all are moderately priced) at the interactive planting station, and then select a houseplant or succulent.

With guidance provided by the green-thumbed staff, customers mix the nutrient-rich soil, plant it properly and then receive a tutorial on home care.

clay using just their hands, small tools and molds.

There’s plenty of artistic inspiration throughout the studio to get creative juices flowing. Design a wall sconce, dog bowl or sculpt a figurine. Kristin is there to offer expert techniques and tips as your creation takes shape.

Creations are left behind to fire in the kiln, and then customers return at a later date to paint them.

COOL SCULPT Owner and lifelong artist Kristin Davis recently opened

LIGHTEN UP

Creative Ceramics in Sherman Oaks (15116 Ventura Blvd.).

Billed as the “party of the year” at the 150-acre Descanso

The bungalow (set back a bit off the Boulevard) is an

Gardens (descansogardens.org), the Enchanted Forest of

artistic hub where people of all ages are encouraged to

Light runs through January 5. It is an interactive, night-

experiment and, yes, even play with clay.

time experience: a one-mile walk through the botani-

While the studio features classes and open studio hours

large-scale light displays, many of which are interactive,

perienced ceramicists (teens and adults) use the motorized

allow visitors to manipulate the lights and sounds.

equipment. For kids, she suggests sculpting and modeling

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cal gardens, which have been magically lit. A variety of

to “throw” pottery on the wheel, Kristin advises only ex-

The interactive features are what makes this

experience so much fun. At the Symphony of Oaks, visitors can make the majestic trees sing with color by kicking off a symphony of hues from the platforms under each tree. At Lightwave Lake, visitors can change the colors or control the lights to create their own designs.

Also during this special event, the Japanese Gardens are adorned with hundreds of glowing red lanterns, and thousands of radiant tulips are in full bloom.

A number of food and beverage options are available, and Maple, the on-site restaurant, is open for dinner. Tickets to this rain-or-shine event must be purchased in advance and are nonrefundable.

FOR GROWN-UPS FANCY FLIGHT With the no-frills experience of flying these days, it’s hard to imagine that airplane transportation—even in coach—used to be considered a luxury experience. And no one did it better than Pan Am Airways. The airline was known for its large, plush seats; fully decked out, attractive “stewardesses;” and multicourse meals. When it shut down in 1981, a chapter in American aviation was closed.

So when Talaat Captan, the CEO of Air Hollywood—an airline-oriented production studio in Pacoima (the hilarious Kristen Wiig drunk scene in Bridesmaids was shot there)—stumbled across a collection of memorabilia from the iconic airline, he had to have it. “The collection was just incredible, and really well preserved,” Talaat shares.

“It included part of an actual 747, dishware, silverware and all the stewardess, pilot and crew uniforms.”

That vintage assortment was the inspiration for the creation of the three-and-a-half-hour Pan Am Experience (panammexperience.com) at Air Hollywood—a chance for the nostalgic and the curious to take a meticulously crafted trip back in time.

Just like in the good ol’ days, there are there three classes of travel for the 50 passengers: Clipper, First Class and the exclusive Upper Deck in which passengers ascend the famous Pan Am spiral staircase to what essentially

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PHOTOGRAPHS BY RACHEL RAMBALDI

amounts to a private space—great for small groups.

The experience kicks off with a cocktail party in the

Orange, his unique eye already evident in every shot.

In his photographs, Kubrick trained the camera on

lounge set off by two illuminated, fully stocked bars.

his native city, drawing inspiration from the nightclubs,

One was made from the circular exterior of a real plane.

street scenes, and sporting events that made up his

Then “passengers” climb aboard the jet for a five-course

first assignments, capturing the pathos of ordinary life.

meal (meat, chicken and vegetarian options). The team

Viewing the photos, one can see the filmmaker focusing

stewardesses—who make three complete outfit changes

on the themes that would inspire him throughout his cre-

during the evening—seem right out of central casting

ative life, capturing the drama of human interactions and

and provide much of the evening’s entertainment. They

telling stories in dynamic sequences.

lead games and preside over the duty-free cart, which of course, includes cigarettes (fake).

The striking shots include boxers, burlesque queens and even a young Montgomery Clift.

Several scenes from the movie Once Upon A Time in

— Written by Hadley Hall Meares

Hollywood were shot on the Pan Am set. “Leonardo Caprio and Brad Pitt were both here, as well as the director

SIPPIN’ SAFARI

Quentin Tarantino. In fact, Quentin had so much fun that

Over the holidays, the folks at Saddlerock Ranch’s

he actually came back with his wife after the shoot and the

Malibu Wine Safari (lasafaris.com) are transforming Camp

two did the whole experience together,” Talaat shares.

Cabernet into a winter wonderland with Malibu Lights:

— Written by Linda Grasso

Winter Nights. For the adults-only evening experience, guests get to ride through the scenic 1,000-acre

ZOOM LENS

property—which is decked out with a holiday-inspired

In 1945, an observant, quirky 17-year-old from the Bronx

immersive light show—while tasting Saddlerock’s best

named Stanley Kubrick sold his first photograph to Look

locally produced wines along the way.

magazine, one of the most popular pictorial publications

As the driver team leads the adventure on custom-built

of the day. Soon he was working the New York beat for

open-air safari vehicles, guests will enjoy the light show,

the magazine, taking hard-nosed, unflinching photos in

making pit stops along the way.

the style of his hero, the tabloid photojournalist Weegee.

Now these revelatory slice-of-life photos, many never

At each stop guests will be served two wine tastings of the property-label wines including some from Semler

published, are on view through March 8 in Through a

Estate. The property’s famous oak grove will be decked

Different Lens: Stanley Kubrick Photographs at the Skirball

out as Candy Cane Lane, and at one point, you even get to

Cultural Center (skirball.org). The exhibit offers a tantaliz-

share your wish list with Santa.

ing glimpse inside the creative mind of the future director of such classics as 2001: A Space Odyssey and A Clockwork

— Written by Linda Grasso

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silver linings playlist THE STORY OF HOW ONE WOMAN’S FIGHT FOR THE RIGHTS OF HER SPECIAL-NEEDS SON CHANGED HIS LIFE AND HERS—AND ULTIMATELY THE PATH OF MANY OTHERS. Written by Karen Young | Photographed by Michael Becker

Georgianna Junco-Kelman learned

Short-term steroid injections initially projected to have

early on that knowledge is power. As a

little impact fortunately stopped the spasms. Still, consulting

9-year-old Cuban immigrant growing

physicians from Los Angeles to Miami were at odds regarding

up in South Pasadena, she experienced

long-term treatment—with one recommending an immediate hemispherectomy to remove half of his brain. Another

discrimination and bullying because

said medication is a ‘Band-Aid;’ it was never known to work

she did not speak English and was

except in one situation.

part of an education system that did not embrace differences.

“I said, ‘one situation’ … OK, Brandon’s going to be that kid too,” remarks Georgianna.

Then at age 3, Brandon was diagnosed with epilepsy after experiencing a seizure, commonly known as petit mal. But

“Having that experience motivated me. It was the first time in my life where I thought, I will stand up for myself and never feel this helpless again.”

And so it was almost déjà vu when years later that

Those early seizures left him with global developmental delay, along with serious learning and processing disorders.

Academically, he functions on a second- or third-grade level,

herself but rather, her son Brandon, who was born with a

although he keeps up socially and intellectually.

Georgianna and Brandon, who is now 17, sit in the sunny

The Kelman family philosophy is inclusion. “We don’t treat Brandon with kid gloves. We treat him equally. His

kitchen of their Studio City home. For a house with three boys

brothers dish it out the way they do with each other, and if

and two dogs, it’s surprisingly quiet on a Sunday afternoon.

Brendan does something he shouldn’t do, no one says, Oh,

Brandon’s brothers, Jack, 14, and Christian, 11, are studying in

he’s disabled.”

their rooms. Their dad, Jonathan, a criminal defense attorney, is putting away groceries.

Georgianna, an attorney, is a fiery powerhouse who

At 5 feet, 8 inches, Brandon stands tall. However, his right side slightly curls forward. Georgianna explains: “His right foot is totally rigid. He has spasticity in his right hand, so he is

speaks at breakneck speed. Brandon, whose smile envelops

left-handed by force. We didn’t think he could ever open a can

his face, has a speech impediment, but it does not impair

of Coke or put on a jacket. But after 17 years of occupational

his articulate thoughts.

therapy and sheer will, he can do it.”

Most notable is their complete transparency. “I don’t

And it is that sheer will and his ability to mimic others that

shelter him from anything. I’ve always been super hon-

pushed him to swim at age 7, and at 14, to practice dribbling

est about the world, about people, about his disability,”

nonstop on their neighborhood basketball court. When he was

relays Georgianna.

invited to a Golden State Warriors game to meet Steph Curry,

Brandon doesn’t miss a beat: “I don’t want to be seen as a disability kid. I want to be seen for what I can do.”

he ended up shooting hoops—and made two baskets.

Now in 11th grade at Birmingham Community Charter High

The ability to speak was something doctors said Brandon

School (his fifth school in the LAUSD system), Brandon is in

might never do when at 2 months old he was diagnosed with

a full-inclusion program. That means he is mainstreamed in

focal cortical dysplasia—a malformation of the brain resulting

a regular classroom with a one-on-one aide, and is provided

in seizures called infantile spasms.

with an alternative curriculum designed for his needs.

“We were told ... that he might not walk or talk, or (that he might) be in a vegetative state,” shares Georgianna.

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seizure-free for more than five years.

helpless feeling reemerged—not concerning Georgianna brain malformation.

32

by taking a combination of medications daily, he has been

He spends most days after school with the basketball team working as team manager. In a stroke of luck, the coach hap-

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“I DON’T WANT TO BE SEEN AS A DISABILITY KID. I WANT TO BE SEEN FOR WHAT I CAN DO.”

pens to have a degree in special education.

“We lucked out; he totally got it. When I asked him if Brandon could get involved with the team in some way he was like, ‘What exactly are you asking for here? Do you want me to

eventually filed a complaint to obtain the proper placement.

Unable to find an appropriate LAUSD preschool classroom, Georgianna visited a “sought-after” preschool. She remem-

some of the real responsibilities of a manager and treat him

bers the initial warm response. But as she described Brandon’s

like one of the guys?’ We both agreed that the latter was the

challenges, “You could hear a pin drop.”

The players come from varying socioeconomic back-

Later, a tour of the school consisted of the administrator pointing out how Brandon wouldn’t adapt to the school

grounds. Some have even experienced homelessness and

settings. “That was my first rude awakening into the real

confrontations with the law—but it is here that Brandon has

world and the rejection and the isolation that comes with

found acceptance.

having disabilities.”

“I didn’t have a lot of friends at my other schools. I’ve got

Searching for other options, Georgianna contacted McRory

some friends now and I get to be part of something,” says

Pediatric Services and was referred to another local pre-

Brandon. “It makes me feel like I’m accepted, I’m not invis-

school. Brandon was accepted with open arms and told by

ible, and I’m happy about myself.”

the administrators that having him there “would be a gift to

Getting to this point has been a battle that began at the preschool level with securing an IEP (individualized education

the other children.”

Brandon thrived being around the other kids by observing

program) for placement in a regular classroom with support

and mimicking. It was there he learned to walk at 3 years, 2

services. Instead, he was offered a moderate-severe classroom

months, cementing her belief that an inclusive setting is es-

Brandon, Georgianna, Jonathan, Christian and Jack in their Studio City backyard.

|

with his IEP or, as his mom sees it, his social abilities. They

treat him in some special way or do you want me to give him

way to go,” Georgianna shares.

35

with a “restrictive” environment that was not in accordance

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS EDUCATION TIPS FOR PARENTS WITH SPECIAL-NEEDS CHILDREN. • Insist on a formal assessment and secure an IEP directive. Public schools have a legal sential for students like Brandon to thrive.

responsibility to test for disabilities.

Georgianna’s experience with Brandon has impacted every aspect of her life, including her career. Fueled by a new sense of purpose, she pivoted from criminal law to special education.

“Parents are often so overwhelmed. Just caring for a child can be a challenge, and then you have to figure out what to

• The words “We don’t do that” should sound alarm bells. Research “Special Education” on the LAUSD website. If you feel like you’ve hit a wall, contact an attorney.

do for school. Sometimes parents don’t know their rights.

They don’t know the questions to ask, or that there’s help out

• If LAUSD doesn’t offer sufficient services

there,” she explains. “I wanted to parlay my own treacherous

or classroom placement, families are able

journey into helping others traveling the similar journey.”

to recoup costs for attorney fees, a one-

“There’s still the mentality that special education is a place,

to-one aide, and tuition for public school

and not a service.” Georgiana explains, “It’s only a place when

alternatives. Those alternatives can include

you’ve done all you can with services or alternative schools,

early intervention programs and preschools,

but unfortunately the system usually starts in reverse.”

as well as private schools such as Westmark

Today Brandon spends countless hours writing lyrics on a

School, Bridges Academy and Summit

yellow legal pad that reflect his emotions. Influenced by his

View, all of which serve children who have

dad’s love of old-school rap, he’s inspired by Eminem and the

learning disabilities.

song “Not Afraid,” which he says reminds him “that anything is possible.”

A few times a month, he goes to Studio City Sound where he works with a recording engineer to produce his songs, which he also raps. He now has nearly 20 songs on Spotify under King Lucky Kid, a name he came up with himself.

“Medically he shouldn’t be presenting the way that he is since his brain scans show a person who is severely handicapped,” says Georgianna, retelling a story about Brandon’s physician, Dr. Raman Sankar, Chief of Pediatric Neurology at UCLA. When Dr. Sankar shows the scans to his medical students, he says, “This one kid has defied all the odds. It’s because of him that I give families hope.”

Georgianna’s belief in inclusion and finding the right educational setting for all students extends to her hands-on nonprofit work, including Shane’s Inspiration (which provides playgrounds equipped for special-needs kids) and Autism Speaks. She also creates outreach programs in non-Englishspeaking communities.

“I fight for these kids like they’re my own. My litmus test is always Brandon. If I’m this kid’s parent, if this is Brandon, would this situation be good enough for me? That’s a really quick yes or no.” ■

36

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36

hitching post A BEHIND-THE-SCENES LOOK AT THE VALLEY’S MOST FAMOUS CHURCH, WHERE THE DOOR IS ALWAYS OPEN. Written by Hadley Hall Meares

It’s 11 p.m. on a Tuesday. On busy

oft-married folks of the entertainment industry, who

Coldwater Canyon in Studio City,

were drawn to its relative ease, tolerant attitude and

traffic whizzes by a small wooden structure surrounded by a white picket fence and blooming roses. At first glance, you might think it was

Peppard would get married at the charming chapel.

But the most famous couple joined at the chapel were movie star (and future president) Ronald Reagan and starlet Nancy Davis. The besotted pair tied the knot at the chapel on March 4, 1952—the 1,761st marriage per-

lights are on, and the front door is

formed there. The service was performed by Rev. Wells.

Looking on as best man and matron of honor were the movie star William Holden and his actress wife, Brenda

“Come in and pray. The door is open

Marshall. “People are always interested and asking

night and day.”

questions about that,” Reverend Kosik says. “I was even asked one time, ‘Did you marry them?’ No, I’m 56 years

For 80 years, the doors of the Little Brown Church of

old! After the ceremony, the couple went back to the

the Valley have been open to everyone, 24 hours a day,

Holden’s home for dinner and cake, and later flew to

365 days a year. “We don’t even have any locks! Well,

Arizona for their honeymoon.”

we have one lock that locks the front door open,” Senior

The Reagans later became members of Bel-Air

Minister Rev. Dr. Michael Kosik says. “You go in there at

Presbyterian Church, but they did return to the Studio

3 a.m. in the morning, there’s people in there praying.”

City chapel in 1992 to renew their vows.

The church was founded by Reverend John H. Wells,

A picture of the beaming couple and a copy of their

who envisioned it as a place where wayward souls could

marriage certificate are on display in a glass case. Indeed,

reflect and pray after local bars closed. In 1939, on the

the lure of the Reagan love story is so strong that couples

weedy plot where the chapel now stands, Wells and his

have come from all over the world to get married at the

wife set up a tent. Soon, with the help of locals in then-

same chapel as the presidential pair. After their deaths,

sleepy Studio City, they built a small, DIY brown wooden

church officials noted an uptick in visitors to the sanctu-

chapel with knotty pine pews and unadorned, wood pan-

ary, saying a prayer for the deceased.

eled walls.

“Shortly after that, people started coming, and there’s a little cottage that’s on the property that he lived in,” Reverend Kosik explains. “People would knock on the

Today the church continues to be a beloved and, at $895, a relatively inexpensive wedding venue. Recently the 23,109th wedding was performed.

“We have people getting married all the time because

door and ask if he would marry them. And so he started

their parents got married there,” he says. “It’s a tradition

doing weddings. After the weddings started, they started

for a lot of them. It’s like a legacy.”

having worship services there. At first it was nondenomi-

So famous is the tiny church—which seats a maximum

national, just Christian worship services. Today our de-

of 125 people—as a wedding spot, that many don’t realize

nomination is the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).”

it’s actually a working church. “I think there is this idea

The scenic structure soon became a popular spot for

|

Brando, Debbie Reynolds, Mickey Rooney and George

a home. But then you notice all the wide open. A sign in the yard beckons:

40

low profile. Over the years, celebrities including Marlon

that it’s a wedding chapel, and some people see it that

California couples looking for a quick, simple wed-

way,” he says. “But also, it’s a great alternative to going

ding ceremony. It became particularly popular with the

to Vegas or having to pay the expense of a big church.”

However, the church’s peaceful, friendly atmosphere occasionally convinces wedding participants and guests to become members of the congregation, which has been growing for decades. In 1989, it merged with the Central Christian Church in Van Nuys, which is now known as Church of the Valley in Van Nuys. Together they are known as the Church of the Valley. Sunday services are held on both campuses, with worship at 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. in the Little Brown Church.

“We have people from all walks of life,” Reverend Kosik says of the congregation’s inclusive spirit. “We have people who even culturally define themselves as Jewish. We have people who grew up in different denominations, different religions. We have people who are gay and straight and everything in between. That’s part of the reason that we really like the open door, because part of it is a metaphor for us as a welcoming place. We have an open door, literally, and everyone is welcome.”

This includes all people in the surrounding community, be they practicing Christians or not. “The Little Brown Church is kind of the non-church person’s church,” Kosik says. “When people need a wedding, or a memorial service or a baby is born, and they want to dedicate the child, but they don’t have a home church for some reason. I think it’s because the doors are open, and people know it. A lot of people think of it as their church even though they’ve never gone to a worship service.”

Along with Assistant Minister Reverend VeAnn Clark, Kosik oversees the church’s many charitable endeavors, which include a food pantry that feeds 1,400 people every month, home building in Tijuana, and doing outreach with the Hope of the Valley Rescue Mission. The church even sells its own branded coffee, with proceeds going to charitable services.

When asked what he loves most about the Church of the Valley, the Reverend points to the congregation, and to the children he once taught in Sunday school who grow up and marry in the Little Brown Church. “We use the phrase ‘church family,’ and sometimes we use it just, you know, throwing it around,” Kosik says. “But it really is like a family.” ■

42

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THE SAUCE

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THE SAUCE

The Comeback of Giovanni Bolla AFTER FALLING ON HARD TIMES, A CATERER TO THE STARS JOINS FORCES WITH HIS MARKETING-WHIZ DAUGHTER AND PRESTO: GIOVANNI’S TIRAMISU. Written by Linda Grasso | Photographed by Shane O’Donnell

On any given morning, you’ll find Giovanni Bolla in his

bottle and preserve Italian delicacies like layered anchovies

daughter Isabelle’s Encino kitchen. He moves swiftly

and white truffles. His was a family of foodies before that

and deliberately, rarely breaking his focus—almost like a

term even existed. He began working in the kitchen at the

pharmacist mixing lifesaving drugs. But the 71-year-old is

age of 13, and took on his first job cooking on cruise ships

making a dessert, albeit one that may have saved his life.

at the age of 17. Educated in fine hotel and restaurant

Giovanni’s Tiramisu is not your average overly sweet,

management in Switzerland and Italy—“hotel school,” as

runny version. His creation is a fluffy, flavorful concoction

Giovanni puts it—he graduated from Le Cordon Bleu in

with—and herein lies the distinction—the perfect consis-

Europe. In 1969, at the age of 21, he emigrated to the U.S.

tency. It is firm, with the perfect ratio of cake to pudding.

and just days after arriving, started working as the maître

“Everything must be done correctly. Nothing is rushed,”

d’ at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel. He quickly ascended the

Giovanni shares in his heavy Italian accent. He is oblivious

ladder, with more high-level jobs at posh hotels, country

to visitors as he dips the ladyfingers in coffee, layers them

clubs and eateries, including one as the assistant food and

in a rectangular cake pan, carefully spoons on the egg/

beverage director for the Beverly Hills Hotel.

mascarpone mixture, and pipes on a pretty design with a pastry bag before topping it off with cocoa powder.

“Yes, there is a secret ingredient,” he chuckles, “but I

Finally, the time seemed right to branch out on his own, and in 1978 Giovanni kicked off Bolla’s International Catering Company. The firm took off and soon

won’t tell you what it is.” Giovanni is smiling a lot these

Giovanni was catering parties for Hollywood’s elite,

days after some tumultuous times, which included a few

feeding everyone from Jane Seymour to Richard Burton.

weeks when he was homeless. At one time, though—

As part of his catering package, Giovanni would bring

and he really wants you to know this—he was on top.

photographers in to shoot his events, and today he has

Giovanni, you see, used to be a caterer to the stars, toss-

stacks of meticulously kept photo albums, complete with

ing elegant soirees for Hollywood A-listers ranging from

newspaper clippings detailing his elaborate menus.

Rod Stewart to Ella Fitzgerald.

Sit down with him and the stories come rapid-fire.

“One time it was 108 degrees and I was catering a dinner

ANTIPASTO

for 600 on the lawn at Pickfair in Beverly Hills. I had to

Giovanni was born in a small town called Asti, in the Pied-

bring in ice and chill each plate of crab legs and shrimp

mont region of northern Italy, known primarily for Asti

and then remove the ice when the guests sat down. And

Spumante sparkling wine. He grew up watching his mom

then for dessert on this hot night—of all things—it was

|

49

Baked Alaska with sparklers on top!”

The photos showcase Giovanni’s over-the-top style: gigantic radicchio platters, fettuccine with caviar, art-

up and I had nearly 800 notifications. I was shocked!”

Isabelle, who works in marketing, felt they were onto

fully arranged buffet tables stacked 3 feet high, towers of

something. She posted pictures of the dessert on Nextdoor

cream puff pastries adorning Christmas tree-like towers.

and on a private women’s Facebook group that she belongs

“It was all very grand,” he reflects. “They just don’t do it

to. She shared a bit about her dad’s much-ballyhooed

like that anymore.”

past and his more recent challenges, and then touted his

He says business came to a screeching halt after the 2008 recession. Then there were the personal blows. Giovanni’s first wife and eldest child both died of breast cancer.

Ultimately, he would end up with a much younger woman.

tiramisu. She also put a shout-out to anyone who “has an event or a sweet tooth and would like a full tiramisu cake.”

Much to Isabelle’s surprise, the orders started coming in. Like any 20-something working in digital market-

The couple had two children. With his new wife working as

ing, she knew exactly what to do. She quickly launched

a nurse, they decided that it made sense for Giovanni to be a

a website and Instagram account, posting cute shots of

stay-at-home dad. “I’m 30 years older than she is and ulti-

her dad in the kitchen and delivering his dessert to locals.

mately, I thought, she could take care of me.” But things got

“He had absolutely no internet experience. At first, I had

rocky and the two divorced. Giovanni moved out, and for a few

to print out driving directions but then I taught him how

weeks lived in his truck. Then he moved in with a neighbor

to use Google Maps. The word just spread. We’ve even

for a few months as he tried to figure out a plan. Getting back

had some of his old customers hear about it, email us and

into the biz, as it turns out, was not easy. A decade had gone

order!” Isabelle quips.

by, and fancy was out. “These days, people don’t even eat with a knife and a fork,” Giovanni, a stickler for manners, exclaims.

“He was really struggling,” recalls daughter Isabelle Mo-

“The money is great; he needs it. But honestly the best thing about it is the connection. He is out and about and conversing with people. He drops off the tiramisu and has

line. “Everything had changed, and so many of his business

conversations with his customers. Sometimes they hug

contacts—not to mention his friends—had died. Like so

him and tell him how much they love his dessert. They

many older people, he was completely isolated.”

go back and forth about things. It’s very social. Before, he

Isabelle, who had been living with her husband in Spain, decided she needed to move back to LA. “With my

was lacking that human connection,” she explains.

With the business officially up and running, now the

older sister gone and his two other children so young, I’m

duo has turned their attention to making some modern

really all he has. And it was just super stressful trying to

tweaks. At Isabelle’s direction, the business just got of-

help but being so far away,” she notes.

ficially licensed and plans are underway for a food truck,

The couple rented a small home off Burbank Boulevard and helped Giovanni find a small studio apartment nearby. Still unresolved: Where could Giovanni get work?

The solution came out of nowhere this past summer. It

serving tiramisu and espresso. Giovanni has even come up with a gluten-free version of the dessert.

Newly energized and with his daughter by his side, Giovanni has even returned to some of his grand old ways

was Isabelle’s 27th birthday and she was feeling festive.

of thinking. “I feel like we need something like a board of

She asked Giovanni to make her some tiramisu. “We went

advisors or director, maybe 10 people or so, to really go at

grocery shopping and bought all this stuff and my dad,

it in all directions with different areas of expertise. It is

who is used to cooking in large batches, made five trays!

so much about the branding these days,” he says.

I thought, what am I gonna do with all this tiramisu?”

50

some photos on Facebook and “the next morning I woke

Isabelle can’t contain her giggles on this one. “Let’s

She gave some to neighbors and they raved. Much to the

take it one step at a time, Dad,” she laughs, with a dis-

chef’s delight, some even asked for more. Isabelle put

cernable mixture of happiness and relief. ■

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51

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55

THE SAUCE

bright ideas A CITRUS-INSPIRED COLOR PALETTE INSPIRES A FESTIVE TABLESCAPE, CAKE AND COCKTAIL TO KEEP THE CELEBRATIONS GOING THROUGH THE NEW YEAR. Written, styled & produced by Kara Mickelson | Photographed by Shane O’Donnell

An elegant table that blends traditional and not-so-traditional tones, with a few easy do-it-yourself elements.

Gugrida white and gold flatware (20-piece set), $52; amazon.com. Bernardaud Sol dinner plate, $88, and salad plate, $82; Bloomingdale’s. Vintage glassware; Antique Corral in Redondo Beach. Repurposed copper hand-hammered chargers created with coat of Rust-Oleum spray paint in the color “Hammered.” The napkin décor made from hand-tied pink and orange chrysanthemums (you can use any flower with a small rounded head). The seeded eucalyptus is spraypainted with a mix of two shades: “Hammered” and “Metallic Gold.”

CITRUS BUTTER RUM BUNDT CAKE Bright and cheery mandarins—in peak

In a medium saucepan, heat butter over medium high heat until milk

season—add a touch of sunshine to an elegant

solids begin to lightly brown and butter is melted. Remove from heat.

Bundt cake.

Reserve ¼ cup of browned butter for rum sauce.*

¼ cup plus 2 tablespoons butter

and citrus zest. Reserve. Cream butter and sugar in a stand-up mixer

1¼ cups buttermilk

or use a hand mixer. Add eggs one at a time and combine thoroughly.

¼ cup dark rum

Whisk together remaining dry ingredients. Slowly alternate adding

1½ tablespoons vanilla extract

half of the dry ingredients, then half of the liquid with the butter and

3 mandarin oranges, juice & zested

sugar until combined. Scrape bottom to incorporate.

Combine buttermilk, 2 tablespoons browned butter, rum, vanilla

(reserve juice for rum sauce)

Preheat oven to 325º. Lightly coat Bundt pan with pan spray or

1 lime, juice & zested

vegetable oil. Spoon batter into pan. Tap pan to release air bubbles

(reserve juice for rum sauce)

and smooth top. Make sure batter fills in the decorative edges of the

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

pan, with slightly less batter at the center. Bake for 60 minutes.

1¾ cups granulated sugar

Remove cake from oven. Use a skewer to poke holes into bottom

4 large eggs

of cake. Carefully pour Citrus Butter Rum Sauce over cake, letting it

3¼ cups all-purpose flour

seep into the holes. Let cake absorb liquid. Place a cooling rack over

2 teaspoons baking powder

the cake and unmold over a sheet pan while still warm. Top with

1 teaspoon baking soda

Buttermilk Glaze. Can be made one day ahead; refrigerate.

1 teaspoon salt

Cake should be room temperature or slightly warm before adding

Garnish: six mandarins and three limes,

Decorator Top Glaze. Spread or pipe glaze on top outer rim of cake.

sliced, peeled and quartered

Gently shake and tap to encourage drips.

Citrus Butter Rum Sauce

slices if desired.

Garnish with sliced fruit. Add an extra pour of rum over the top of ¼ cup melted, browned butter* ¼ cup light brown sugar

Citrus Butter Rum Sauce

juice of 3 mandarin oranges

Combine all ingredients and heat until sugar is dissolved. Remove

juice of 1 lime

from heat and cover.

3 tablespoons dark rum 1/8

teaspoon salt

Buttermilk Glaze Whisk all ingredients together in a small bowl and cover.

Buttermilk Glaze 2 cups powdered sugar

Decorator Top Glaze

¼ cup buttermilk

Mix all ingredients. Add additional sugar as needed to create a

1/8

teaspoon cream of tartar

1 tablespoon dark rum Decorator Top Glaze 1¾ cups powdered sugar 2 teaspoons olive oil 2 teaspoons dark rum 1–2 tablespoons buttermilk 1 lime, juice and zest

spreadable thick paste. More liquid or powdered sugar can help achieve a stiff consistency.

HOLIDAY BLISS COCKTAIL A refreshingly simple gin-based drink that’s

Cocktail Base

Ginger Simple Syrup

on the healthier side with antioxidant-packed

1½ ounces gin

¼ cup water

green tea, unsweetened cranberry juice and a

1½ ounces 100% unsweetened cranberry juice

¼ cup granulated sugar

hint of soothing ginger.

2 ounces Ginger Simple Syrup (recipe at right)

3 slices 1/8-inch thick

3 mandarin oranges, juiced

fresh peeled ginger root

Makes 1 to 2, depending on glass size

1 lime, juiced ¼ cup prepared and cooled matcha green tea

Add water to a small saucepan. Stir in sugar

mandarin orange or lime twist

and ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a

sparkling water

simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until sugar is dissolved. Let cool; refrigerate

Place all ingredients in a shaker or pitcher with ice.

Shake or stir until combined. Adjust base flavor as desired by adding more gin or syrup to taste. Rub inside glass with a lime or orange slice. Add splash of sparkling water. Pour, garnish and serve.

until ready to use.

CELEBRATING THE BEST OF CALIFORNIA

goldenstate.is

@ourgoldenstate

change

homeless in the valley AMID THE GROWING NUMBER OF HOMELESS ENCAMPMENTS IN THE VALLEY, JOURNALIST PHIL SHUMAN GOES ON A FACT-FINDING MISSION TO LEARN WHY WE ARE SEEING MORE PEOPLE LIVING ON OUR STREETS—AND WHAT IS BEING DONE TO HELP THEM. Written by Phil Shuman | Illustrated by Yasmine Kahsai

It is a Wednesday night and the

city and county, to increased taxes to cover housing and

cafeteria at Notre Dame High School

services. But now some residents have mixed feelings.

is packed—with adults. It’s the

“At what point does compassion threaten my safety or my family’s safety? We’ve passed these measures. Where

monthly meeting of the powerful

are the improvements? Where are the changes?” Bob

Sherman Oaks Homeowners

Reith, a college administrator, says. “The only changes

Association (SOHA), well known at City Hall for its ability to influence voters and change policies. The regulars are all there: lawyers,

seem to be an increase in homeless people. That’s what tugs at you. You feel for these people, but at the same time you’re afraid.”

MANAGING THE CRISIS The questions on everyone’s mind: What is causing the

realtors, business owners,

increased homeless population and what can we do about

housewives, actors, retirees, all

it? There are no simple answers. Experts at organizations

awaiting the evening’s speakers.

like the Los Angeles Housing Services Authority (LAHSA) will tell you it’s a “complex” issue. LAHSA was created in

Many of these mostly white middle-

1993 to coordinate homeless relief efforts and distribute

agers and senior citizens grew up in

money. LAHSA Commissioner Wendy Greuel, appointed

the San Fernando Valley and have

by Mayor Garcetti says, “More people are coming into homelessness than are leaving. Affordable housing is

never left. They love where they live.

a huge part of it. It just hasn’t kept up with demand.”

But on this night, the mood was one

Greuel, a Valley resident, a former LA councilwoman and

of frustration. On the agenda: the Valley’s homeless population.

controller who attended the Homeowners Association meeting, said she shared the frustration. “It’s a crisis.”

Another attendee, the oft-quoted academic Gary Blasi of UCLA asked, “How do we manage it in a way that gets

“Oh my gosh, yes. I’ve never seen it like this,” re-

people in a better place than they are now? I’m not con-

marked the elegantly attired Shirley Rastatter. She’s 91

vinced that the system is operating at a level necessary

and has lived in the Valley since 1960. She bought her

to keep up with the needs of people. It’s not operating at

nearby home for less than what you’d pay for a new

a level of efficiency that it could be.” That opinion was

Prius, and has watched her neighborhood deteriorate with

strongly backed by an August audit released by LA City

homeless encampments. “This is just shocking … I think

Controller Ron Galperin that said, in essence, LAHSA has

we’re in big trouble.”

fallen way short of meeting its goals.

Judy Chee, an HR executive, concurs. “I’ve been chased by homeless people. I’ve had stuff thrown at me. I don’t

IMPLEMENTING SOLUTIONS

feel safe walking on my street or on Ventura Boulevard if

The long-term approach to solving the crisis is clear:

homeless people are there.”

Build more subsidized housing, provide services nearby,

Amid their fear about their own safety, there is also

64

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and do outreach to get homeless people to move in.

genuine concern. For years SOHA has tried to support the

Along those lines, there is some progress. LA city voters

homeless; members voted yes, along with the rest of the

passed Measure HHH three years ago—essentially a loan

program to help fund new construction. The first building is expected to open by the end of the year, and there are reportedly some 150 projects in the pipeline. LA County voters then approved Measure H as a companion plan to fund the services that go along with moving the homeless into housing.

Mayor Garcetti has installed a Unified Homelessness Response Center in a downtown building—complete

po

l ic y

with a compelling graphics package (“Confronting the Crisis”)—and there are regular meetings, with reporters invited, to update plans and achievements. Garcetti, who insists that this is his top priority, is also aggressively pursuing a proposal to have at least one “bridge home,”

r shelte

i.e., temporary shelter, in every council district. A few have opened around the city, but they have a relatively small number of beds. In the Valley, a women’s shelter in Sylmar is currently under construction. Four other bridge shelters are apparently in the planning stages.

In the meantime, the city and LAHSA have increased

re

l ie

f

the number of social workers in street teams that engage with the homeless, and there are more Department of Street Services cleanup teams focusing on encampments—even hiring some homeless to help do the work.

Residents can call 311 to report a city problem and be routed to the proper department for help. If it’s an encampment issue, for example, callers are routed to Sanitation. If it is a problem with a specific homeless person, you can call 211 and request that LA County’s Homeless Outreach Mobile Engagement unit send someone out to check. But don’t expect a commitment on timing.

Residents who really want to take a deep dive into the matter can connect to lahsa.org and explore LA-HOP, the site’s Homeless Outreach Portal, to learn about services, laws, referrals and reporting protocols.

Beyond local efforts, Governor Gavin Newsom created a Homeless and Supportive Housing Advisory Task Force in May. Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg and LA County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas serve as its chairmen.

It’s not clear what, if anything, they’ve done so far.

Governor Newsom has talked of declaring an emergency,

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though as of this writing he has not. President Trump,

their will. However, Graham was quick to say, “If you

during a September visit to LA, made a lot of provocative

see a crime, I will handle it. If there’s a narcotics issue

comments about the problems that made headlines, fol-

around a homeless encampment, we will recommit to

lowed by a visit by Ben Carson, secretary of Housing and

that problem.” The question is: What constitutes a crime,

Urban Development. Neither offered specific solutions.

and is one really occurring? Another police officer at the SOHA meeting that night, who didn’t want to talk for

GETTING ASSISTANCE

attribution, shared that due to overcrowding and changes

So what do you do when you feel endangered—when

in laws that have turned felonies into misdemeanors, of-

you’re afraid of a homeless person, who, for example, is

fenders are often back on the street within hours.

exhibiting signs of mental instability or drug use? You can call the police, but note that being homeless or acting

THE PERSONAL STORIES

strangely is not a crime. “What we can’t do is rub the lamp

So who are the homeless and how did they get there?

and make the homeless go away,” is the blunt assessment

For many, it’s the high cost of living in a tight hous-

of LAPD Commander Don Graham. He was appointed to

ing market where rental costs have soared. Even a small

the newly created job of LAPD homeless coordinator in the

increase can push employed, but low-income, people

fall. He’s worked and lived in the Valley most of his life.

into homelessness. Some have lost jobs and are without a

At the SOHA meeting, he patiently explained to the crowd

safety net. Others are mentally ill or struggling with drug

that law enforcement officers are constrained by laws

addiction. Often they find a sense of community in the

and lawsuit settlements that limit what they can do. If

encampments that have popped up all over the Valley.

someone decides to pitch a tent on the sidewalk in front of

At the Studio City farmer’s market one Sunday, I met

your home, it is legal, as long as there is 36 inches of space

74-year-old Kristina. As with most homeless people I’ve

allowed for others to pass. “This is the social problem of

interviewed, it was hard to get a complete grasp on her

our time,” Graham concluded.

story. “I’m not a street person. I can’t live on the street,”

If a homeless person is exhibiting disconcerting

she insisted. She claims she can’t live in a shelter because

behavior (i.e., talking to themselves, shouting, walking

of allergies. “I get more sick than if I’m on the street,” she

or dancing in the street), you can call 911 and wait for a

explained. Apart from the handmade cardboard sign Kris-

police response, or you can 211 and request assistance.

tina was holding, “Homeless Please Help Thank You,” she

But if that person is not an immediate and clear danger

looked like a typical grandmother, albeit one with an espe-

to themselves or others, they can’t be taken in against

cially weathered face. She couldn’t or wouldn’t say exactly

“MORE PEOPLE ARE COMING INTO HOMELESSNESS THAN ARE LEAVING. AFFORDABLE HOUSING ... HASN’T KEPT UP WITH DEMAND.”

how long she’s been living on the streets, but shared that

HOMELESS BY THE NUMBERS

she gets $600 a month from Social Security. She was widowed young, had a series of jobs including cleaning “I had an apartment and I lost it. I’m single now. I have

58,936

my daughter and my grandson. ... When we first lost the

Number of homeless in LA County in 2019

lady and babysitter, but no real savings or stable family.

apartment, we got by with friends, until they couldn’t have us anymore. Then we slept in the car, which is horrible.

Now I try to find the cheapest motel in the area, but when I can’t afford that, we sleep in the car or on the street.”

I also met 55-year-old Art, who said he’s been living in a tent under a freeway overpass for six years. He lives off a $900 monthly disability check. “The quality of life is much better here than in a shelter,” he remarked. Art says he would love to get a job, but “the mental health department said I’m disabled and unemployable.”

HELPING HANDS As officials work to come up with a solution, others are taking matters into their own hands. Reverend Stephanie Jaeger of St. Matthews Lutheran Church in North Hollywood helps the homeless with a pop-up Homeless Access

$47.50 Hourly wage that residents must make to afford the median LA rent*

12% 30%

Increase of homeless in LA County 2018–19

Increase in number of homeless in LA County 2015–19

7,730

Center she founded at the church. She is also a member

Number of homeless in San Fernando

of the newly created Homeless Committee on the NOHO

and Santa Clarita Valleys

Neighborhood Council. She is optimistic that things will get better. “I understand the frustration, but we have the tools and strategy to make it work. It’s a slow rollout, but it will succeed. While we wait for housing to be built, for temporary shelters to go up, there are ways for every neighbor to volunteer, to donate time or clothing or help caseworkers. It makes a huge difference,” she says. Staffed by volunteers, the church’s homeless center has helped dozens get off the streets, after connecting them with services, doctors and therapists, according to Jaeger. She believes the key in getting people off the streets is trust.

“When people trust you they will take services. They won’t if someone just walks up to them on an off-ramp.” ■

851

Number of LAHSA outreach workers

21,631 Number of people LAHSA housed in 2018

34%

Increase in number of people LAHSA housed between 2018 and 2019

*from LAHSA as reported in The New York Times

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as seen in

Ventura Blvd is part of the Golden State network, a family of digital, social and print media brands celebrating the people, pursuits, lifestyles and ideas of California. In every issue, we are sharing one story across our network that explores topics beyond the limits of the Valley. These California stories speak to the meaningful impact our state and its residents are making on the global stage. To learn more about Golden State and discover more stories like this, visit goldenstate.is.

the producers TWENTY-FIVE YEARS AFTER HE BEGAN HIS TRANSITION FROM HOLLYWOOD TO NAPA, RICH FRANK CAN CONFIDENTLY SAY THAT MAKING WINE IS A LOT LIKE MAKING MOVIES. AND GIVEN THE SUCCESS OF FRANK FAMILY VINEYARDS, RICH’S ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY INSTINCTS HAVE CLEARLY SERVED HIM WELL. NOW THE FORMER EXECUTIVE TURNED WINEMAKER SHARES HIS SECRET TO MAKING A LASTING PRODUCT— WHETHER DESTINED FOR A CINEMA OR A CELLAR. Interviewed by Bonnie Graves

The old joke goes like this: “How

changer, although now it’s increasingly tech titans from

do you make a million dollars in

Silicon Valley who bring the big cash to wine country.

What distinguishes Frank Family Vineyards is not just

the wine business? Just invest 10

longevity as they celebrate 25 years in Napa. It’s what I

million.” I am reminded of this

think is best described as authenticity. A tasting appoint-

adage whenever folks ask me if I

ment at Frank Family is easily one of the most coveted

want to be a winemaker or own a winery someday. (I am a sommelier by background, and we never make money … although we do drink well.)

in Napa Valley, and the winery greets its customers like cherished guests.

The ethos at Frank Family is always one that emphasizes family. Rich and his wife, Leslie, herself an Emmy Award winner, have now permanently relocated to Napa Valley, and their charitable pursuits reflect a commitment

While many envision a relaxing,

to the community that they’ve chosen to call home. Paying

bucolic lifestyle of seasonality

it forward is still one of the very best ways to build a loyal

and hospitality set amid rolling,

customer base. It’s also helpful to make delicious products.

We caught up with Rich on the heels of Festival Napa

vineyard-clad hills, the reality is

Valley, which he and Leslie co-chaired this past sum-

often much harsher.

mer, and just before the annual chaos of harvest. Even

The vagaries of a product defined by vintage are legion: too much rain, not enough rain, hail, mold, rot, drought

though he’s a grandfather with grandkids who are rapidly growing up, this veteran winemaker has no intention of slowing down anytime soon.

and, increasingly here in California, wildfire. And that’s before one considers just how crowded the wine market

You recently celebrated your 25th year in Napa Valley.

is, with increased globalization and expanded delivery

What have been the biggest changes you’ve seen?

mechanisms. Then you add the byzantine, three-tier

Rich Frank: Those visiting Napa Valley today have become

distribution system here in the United States and decide

much more sophisticated, and they seek sophisticated

that maybe you’ll just buy someone else’s bottle of wine

experiences—ones that offer a direct connection, even an

and enjoy it on your own time and dime.

emotional connection, to the winery. Visitors don’t just

It does take capital to make it in the wine industry,

cause of this, we’re accepting fewer tasting appointments

Napa’s specific successes over the last 25 to 30 years

so that we can offer heightened experiences. Instead of a

have made it increasingly cost-prohibitive to do business

tasting room staff that is focused on numbers and sales,

there. With more than 45,000 acres now planted, Napa

we hire wine educators—people who are passionate about

Valley is crowded both literally and figuratively. So how is

wine, history and storytelling.

a savvy winery owner able to make it there?

Rich Frank is the guy I often think of when pondering

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want to belly up to a stand-up tasting bar anymore. Be-

particularly in a market like Napa Valley. In many ways,

It is also so important to stay relevant and fresh. There has been so much consolidation in distribution that many

this question. A veteran of the entertainment industry in

wineries are focusing on selling direct. Everyone is com-

Southern California—he is a former president of Walt Dis-

peting for the mindshare of this visitor market, so experi-

ney Studios and Paramount Television Group—Rich does

ences must be great or you may as well close your doors.

fit the mold when it comes to the role of affluent career-

My wife, Leslie, has amazing taste and consistently stays

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71

ahead of the curve with the atmosphere here—from the

land—mostly in Rutherford and Carneros—in order to

grounds to the recently redesigned tasting room created

secure the quality of my wine. We have more than 250

by Erin Martin. We have many tasting areas—from a liv-

planted acres today.

ing room atmosphere inside to a sublime patio experience

Once you have a great script, you need a good director,

that is awesome in both winter and summer months. We

and I found that in our GM and winemaker, Todd Graff. He

have heat lamps and offer blankets in the winter—people

joined us in 2003 and is incredibly talented.

just don’t want to leave when they visit.

I also firmly believe that you should make what you like, not what other people tell you to do. When I was head of

And the wine?

Disney Studios, for nine years we never made a horror film.

RF: Guests can choose from a variety of tastings—from a

Frank Family will never make a California sauvignon blanc!

vineyard-specific tasting from our crown-jewel vineyard, Winston Hill, to a tasting featuring cheese and charcute-

Your focus is very much on family at Frank Family. Do

rie pairings from Michael Chiarello’s restaurant Ottimo.

you anticipate handing over the winery to your grandkids someday?

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What parallels do you see between the film business

RF: We get calls once a week asking, “Do you want to

and the wine business? Is one more challenging than

sell?” We don’t, and we’re not even interested in talking

the other?

about it. Leslie and I recently sold our home in LA and

RF: I’ve always understood that, more than anything, the

moved to Napa permanently. We’re becoming deeply

bottom line depends on the quality of grapes in the wine.

entrenched in the community. Leslie is on the board of

I compare a grape to a movie script: If you don’t have

Festival Napa Valley, and we were both chairs of this

a good script, you don’t have a chance of success. That

year’s Collabria Care Gala, which focuses on hospice care.

said, I’ve invested heavily in buying premium vineyard

We love running the winery day to day, so the thought of

letting go—even to our grandkids—is unimaginable right

& Spirits magazine’s Restaurant Poll Top 50 for seven

now! Our kids have thriving careers and love to visit.

consecutive years. It is such an honor that fine dining establishments are so loyal to our brand.

How does that personal passion trickle down to the bottle?

We have always sold sparkling wine in our tast-

RF: We’re focused on what we do. It is so important that

ing room—we’re probably one of the only producers in

we can make decisions based on our values. Corporate

California to still hand-riddle every bottle. That is special,

wineries are pressured to show their worth on spread-

and our guests recognize that. Our sparkling wines sell

sheets for shareholders, and sometimes quality suffers in

out quickly.

that atmosphere. We’re very fortunate. After the fires of 2017, we decided not to bottle juice from a single grape

What advice might you give to someone looking to tran-

that was picked after the fires started on October 8.

sition from entertainment into the hospitality industry?

Financially it was a difficult decision, but we did not have

RF: The wine business is simple, and it is a lot like en-

to think twice about that. Our name is on the bottle.

tertainment. You need to spend quite a bit of money to

It’s all about treating people great, making them feel

produce a vintage of wine, and you should not expect to

at home and making them feel like a part of the family.

see a return for a few years. In entertainment, you need

Generations are returning to our tasting room—as guests

that script (the vineyard). You need the actors (the great

and now as employees.

fruit). You need a director (the winemaker). And if you are planning to make more than you can sell out of your

Frank Family produces a wide variety of wines. Where

tasting room, you better have a solid plan to distribute

have you seen the largest category growth in recent years?

the wine before you even make it. Distribution partner-

RF: Frank Family’s cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay

ships—in both wine and entertainment—can make or

have ranked among the 20 most popular wines in Wine

break you … even if it is Oscar-worthy. ■

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SEEN

Please Be Seated Susan Feldman, founder of the online platform In The Groove, and the Charles Schwab Corporation hosted an al fresco dinner for a group of professional women at her home. As keynote speaker, Alli Webb shared the story of building the Drybar chain, which began with just two outlets (Brentwood and Studio City).

Susan Feldman greeting guests

Bree Jacoby, Colette Shelton

Jill Bates, Linda Grasso, Max Kater

Sara Happ, Alli Webb

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Susan Feldman, Max Kater, Molly Martin, Denise Wingate

SEEN

Royal Flush Chrysalis’ fourth annual Go All In poker night attracted more than 200 guests. Held at the Museum of Flying in Santa Monica, the event raised $140,000. The LA-based nonprofit is dedicated to creating a pathway to self-sufficiency for the homeless through jobs.

The final table of the tournament

Paul Stapleton, Mary Ellen Kanoff, Karen Murphy O’Brien, Julianna Hays Yosub, Celine Bundy-Kahn, Caroline MacDonald, Thomas Hilal

Michael Graff-Weisner, Mark Loranger, Molly Larson, Molly Moen, Trevor Kale

Cheryl Hines and Johnny Levi

Missi Pyle and Sara Rue

Chrysalis board member Paul Stapleton (left) with guests

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PHOTO BY: LUCY BURKE

PHOTO BY: EXPLORA PATAGONIA

walk the line IF NATURE IS A MOTHER, PATAGONIA IS HER DROP-DEAD-GORGEOUS YET WILDLY TEMPERAMENTAL PROGENY. LIKE MOTHS TO A FLAME, ADVENTURERS ARE DRAWN TO THIS MAGNETIC FORCE OF A REGION, COMPLETE WITH TURQUOISE WATERS, GLACIERS AND—FOR THE DETERMINED—PUMAS. Written by Corry Cook Photographed by Lucy Burke,

PHOTO BY: EXPLORA PATAGONIA

explora Patagonia, and Quasar Expeditions

“PATAGONIA BECAME ASSOCIATED WITH THE LATIN

PHOTO BY: EXPLORA PATAGONIA

LEGEND REGIO GIGANTUM, OR, ‘REGION OF GIANTS.’”

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For the bold, winter in Chilean

largest mountain lion, the Patagonian puma, stand tall in

Patagonia is a secret season void of

the sweeping expansiveness of a landscape that’s intensely

crowds and rich with extraordinary

saturated with natural hues and jagged, yet organic, shapes.

Rivaling any big-cat safari around the world, one of

scenery, wildlife sightings, and

South America’s most celebrated adventure specialists,

blurred edges between one’s own

Quasar Expeditions, now provides up-close-and-

sense of the rational and the insane.

Flashes of doubt—“What if I fall short, lose my nerve or become unglued”—have been known to keep the inner pioneer subdued and the journey at bay. True adventure isn’t always neat and tidy, so embrace the unpredictable, the unexpected, and, hell, even the accidental.

Cut to me: cold, wet, and in way over my head on

personal encounters with the majestic puma population in Patagonia. Better yet, they offer a coveted opportunity to shadow one of their renowned puma tracking teams within Torres del Paine National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, as well as the surrounding private reserves and wilderness.

This is about more than disconnecting; Quasar offers a chance to step outside the usual and take on an entirely new persona. In addition to pre-dawn alarm settings, puma tracking demands laser focus, physical intensity, and infinite patience, and requires the right gear and unconditional love for a wild animal that could very well kill you. I couldn’t wait.

In the winter in Chile (May-August), Patagonia’s parks

an ambitious advanced trek with explora Patagonia.

and private lands are delightfully uncrowded. In addition

An explora guide for more than 10 years, Chino is

to tracking puma by jeep, Quasar specializes in on-foot

a professional force, a native Chilean trekker with

puma encounters in the massive Laguna Amarga Ranch.

thousands of hours conquering the formidable terrain and

This means the freedom for tracker and client to walk off-

unpredictable weather in the region. I had come to hang

trail and get involved in the tracking process on foot—

on his every word.

something that is not permitted within the nearby park.

Slow and steady, he directed our group through each step in my own personal vertical nightmare: an obscure dirt trail

This is what we came here for.

Me—a writer. Lucy—a photographer. Not here!

now peppered with slushy potholes and slippery concealed

Under Quasar Expeditions’ tutelage, we were a budding

ice. Despite it all, 11 miles in, I was a on a surprising high.

puma tracking team. Due to a habitat that spans

Out of nowhere, the sound and sight of the icy terrain

many different countries and cultures, the puma

cracking under Chino’s feet struck me to the core. Suddenly

has lots of names, including mountain lion, cougar,

he fell, hard. In a flash he was on his back and whisked away.

and panther. But no matter what you call it, it’s still

I was absolutely terrified.

the same cat, puma concolor.

But first, let me rewind a bit.

When the earliest European navigators charted the New

In the blackest of black of pre-dawn, Lucy and I were whisked away by jeep by our private tracking team with

World, they claimed to have witnessed a land inhabited by

specialized puma guide Cristian Asun and our expert puma

giants. Because of this, Patagonia became associated with

tracker, Jorge Cardenas. Tracking teams like these have their

the Latin legend regio gigantum, or, “region of giants.”

work cut out for them. The puma has an extensive habitat,

Today, we know with certainty that Patagonia is indeed the

preferring dense underbrush and rocky areas for stalking,

realm of giants—but not the human variety. Here, the awe-

but it can also live in open plains, coniferous and tropical

inspiring Torres del Paine massif, as well as the world’s

forests, swamps, and deserts. Further, pumas are naturally

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79

forms, including on foot, by vehicle, using radios, and in

so spotting one is like finding an eyelash in the eye of a

certain cases, satellites. Here, sight, sound, smell, touch,

needle in a haystack. Yet Quasar Expeditions’ guides and

and even taste, rule.

puma tracking experts are always up for the challenge.

Save the occasional crackle of the radio and hushed

been spotted—a female with her four cubs. Pumas are solitary animals, so it’s extraordinary to see more than one

carefully slowed the jeep to a stop. “Go!” he whispered

at a time, unless it’s a mother with cubs or a pair mating.

at me with force. Jorge had disappeared like a ghost from

As this elusive beauty stopped to sip from the river, her

the jeep. Keeping his body tight and low, he raced up the

cubs bounded ahead and dragged behind like happy

steep terrain, almost catlike, dexterously blending into the

offspring do.

The locals’ nickname for her is Rupestre, a nod to the

much less in my body, I exited far less gracefully, grabbed

cave paintings in the park where she was first spotted

my pack, and raced up the mountain after him.

(Pinturas Rupestres). A pretty name, and misleadingly

There aren’t enough words in Spanish or English to

sweet for a powerful predator that is more than 100 pounds

describe this badass. A biologist, naturalist guide, and

of death machine. Pumas have been recorded leaping 18

tracker since graduating university, Jorge Cardenas is a

feet up into the air and even farther horizontally. Like its

Southern California native. He honed his skills in Africa

close relative the cheetah, the puma would rather flee than

under the tutelage of local professionals before moving on

fight, and rarely engages with humans. Jorge kept us close,

to pay his dues for years as a wildlife tracker, specializing

yet at just the right distance. She chose to tolerate him,

in big cats, in South America. Despite being a foreigner in

and by default, us. With Jorge blocking the path between

a tight-knit community of expert native-Chilean wildlife

all females involved, Lucy and I took in this glorious

guides and chasers, today Jorge is one of the most respected

specimen, this alpha female, in quiet awe.

puma trackers in Patagonia.

Energized by fear and awe, I used his silhouette poised

We went on to spend two perfect days actively looking for pumas across a vast landscape, following and

on a high ridge in front a kaleidoscope of sunrise colors to

photographing them, while strategizing where they will

guide me. Eventually I caught up and found Jorge skillfully

nap and feed in a vast graveyard littered with guanaco

tucked in at the top of a high ridge, protected from the

bones. These mammals, relatives of the Andean llama

elements, quietly puffing on his butterscotch-cake-flavored

and the African camel, congregate in this part of the park

vape. Not a word was spoken. His razor-sharp eyes and

during the winter for the protection that the hills and

powerful binoculars scanned the horizon for clues, signs of

walls of its valleys offer from the wind and snow at night,

puma in the distance.

making them prime puma dinner.

The art of wildlife tracking dates back to

|

Back on the ridge, radio chatter came alive. A puma had

radio chatter in Spanish, the ride was a quiet one. Cristian

jagged terrain. I blurted, “Oh, me? Right!” Barely awake,

80

PHOTO BY: LUCY BURKE

PHOTO BY: LUCY BURKE

camouflaged against the neutral hues of their environment,

After each intoxicating puma encounter, Lucy and I

prehistoric hunters, who used it principally to gather

reveled in the routine—travelers and trackers basking in

food. Today travel and tracking wildlife comes in many

triumph together, with plenty of animated storytelling and

individual vices to celebrate and keep us warm. As liquid

the sudden rabid snowstorm and frenetic wind, tossing us

nicotine and whiskey flowed, so too did maté, a delightfully

closer to choices between sheer drop or rock wall of ice.

caffeine-infused drink.

“There must be an easier trail back down!” Our guide,

Not all tales told are festive. Wildlife trackers navigate the

Chino, yelled back in almost crazed delight, “This is the

terrain on behalf of discerning clients, but they are also on

easy path!” I wondered if he had gone mad. “I can’t do

the front lines of conservation, often putting themselves at

this! I’m just a writer from California!” Chino was unfazed,

risk. This is more than a business; it is a way of life involving

having rebounded effortlessly—this was just another day in

tremendous pride and passion for the survival of this now

paradise, despite the fact that he was soaked, his eyebrows

nearly endangered species.

now one big icicle unibrow. “NOT TODAY!” he bellowed

The puma lives in 28 countries in the Americas. Despite

enthusiastically. “You are a writer and a world-famous

being more valuable than gold to both tourism in Chile

explorer! Add those spikes to your shoes, grab your poles

and the Patagonian ecosystem, a puma can be captured

and let’s do this!”

or killed as a preemptive or retaliatory punishment for

Rather than avoiding the elements, explora guides want

livestock predation, legal and illegal sport hunting, and

things to happen. Come wind, rain, maybe snow, or even

bounty hunting. Walking in an expert puma tracker’s

blazing sunshine, you will be inspired and ready to venture

shoes for even a moment is an inspiring reminder of

out into a remarkable land, guided by specialists armed

the fragility of these majestic creatures and the greater

with world-class experience and training.

struggle to protect big cats.

As it came into focus at the end of each thrill-seeking

Every evening, explora Patagonia’s guides meet with guests and explain all the available options for the next

day, the glorious sight of luxurious explora Patagonia

day, helping you choose an exploration that matches your

Lodge made us exhale deeply. Explora architects German

interests and abilities. For three more glorious days, Lucy

del Sol and José Cruz Ovalle have received the Chilean

and I were pleasantly drunk on the explora Kool-Aid as

National Architecture Award, and the Patagonia Lodge, as

we enjoyed walks toward crystal clear lakes and lenga tree

with all of their hotels, seamlessly blends into its remote

forests, hikes to viewpoints, and horseback rides through

and rugged surroundings.

the park’s pampas (grasslands) and along its rivers.

Anchored like a white ship on the shores of turquoise

And we were delightfully inspired by Chilean

Lake Pehoé, explora Patagonia’s unique location sets

Chardonnay when we signed on for the advanced 13-mile

travelers literally in the middle of Torres del Paine National

trek with Chino on our final day. Just as I was ready to curl

Park, while greeting them with award-winning architecture

into the fetal position and call for a helicopter evac, the

and breathtaking panoramic views of the Paine ridge and

adventure gods smiled on us from above; the sun emerged

the granite towers. Conceived as an empowering and

and with it, a magnificent male puma.

luxurious base, explora Patagonia features every amenity

Today these memories come back to me when I least

needed to really relax and restore in between each epic

expect it—when I find myself unsure—vivid flashbacks of

exploration. The 50-room lodge offers some of the most

my strongest self.

impressive views of any lodge in Patagonia. Just steps

Like a trust fall, don’t think too much; let go and have

away from the main building, the spa is a perfect place to

faith—explora Patagonia’s team of expert “spotters” are

unwind, equipped with heated, covered pool, sauna, and

certain to catch. ■

four open-air Jacuzzis with views to the Paine River. A hot steam followed by the coldest of cold plunges in the river is a guaranteed wakeup call and call to action.

Speaking of action, back to my brush with death…

“Is there another way out of this?” Lucy screamed over

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Fascinating WOMEN on the things that matter most.

Available on all podcast platforms. Learn more at SheSez.com.

PHILANTHROPIC VANGUARDS Giving back, when you can, is the right thing to do. Regardless of the size or scale of the contribution, it can make a profound difference in the lives of others. During this holiday season, we urge everyone to think of how they might give back—whether it is money, time or talents—to benefit those who are less fortunate. For a little inspiration, we share this Philanthropic Vanguards profiles special section. On the following pages, you’ll meet some professionals in the Valley and learn about the charitable organizations to which they are dedicated.

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SRM REAL ESTATE GROUP Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation

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CONOR LYNCH FOUNDATION SoCal Families For Safe Streets

87

CHLOE ROSS The Roy and Patricia Disney Family Cancer Center at Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center

EDITED BY LAURA WATTS PHOTOGRAPHED BY MATTHEW COOKE & TAMEKA JACOBS

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

PHILANTHROPIC VANGUARDS

SRM REAL ESTATE GROUP featured charity:

JUVENILE DIABETES RESEARCH FOUNDATION

213-233-9901 | jdrf.org

A

s a lifelong resident of the San Fernando Valley and founder of SRM Real Estate Group, Scott Morris offers more than 30 years of experience in the real estate and mortgage brokerage industry, with transaction volume exceeding $1 billion. Type 1 diabetes (T1D) advocacy became one of Scott’s personal missions after his son’s diagnosis. To align this individual passion with his work, Scott was inspired to transform his business model to include social purpose. Scott sits on the board of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation’s Los Angeles chapter and is a cycling coach in their Ride-to-Cure program.

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED WITH THE JUVENILE DIABETES RESEARCH FOUNDATION? “After my son’s T1D diagnosis, I made a promise that I would do whatever I could to help him get better and to assist in the efforts to find a cure. This led me to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation ( JDRF)—the leading global organization funding T1D research. JDRF is driving research forward in two core areas: curing T1D and improving the lives of the people burdened by this disease today. Partnering with JDRF was a no-brainer for me.”

WHAT DOES THAT PARTNERSHIP LOOK LIKE? “I am passionate about participating in and growing JDRF’s Ride-to-Cure program. My Los Angeles teammates and I raise awareness and funds by riding in 100-mile cycling events around the country. Most recently, I rode through Death Valley—my seventh JDRF century ride. The support my family and I have received from friends, family, clients and vendors through donations and words of encouragement have been transformative. I always return from these events with renewed hope that a cure is on the horizon, which inspires me to find new and innovative ways to do more.”

13848 VENTURA BLVD., SHERMAN OAKS 818-262-3695 SRMREALESTATEGROUP.COM

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IS THIS WHAT LED TO SRM REAL ESTATE GROUP EVOLVING INTO A COMPANY WITH A SOCIAL PURPOSE? “Yes, but not initially. My original idea was simply to make a donation to JDRF each time I worked with a home buyer or seller. As I shared my family’s T1D story, I was surprised to discover how many people were willing to share their own story about the causes and charities they support. In many cases, people

I had known for years were sharing their struggles with me for the first time. I became convinced that my business—and businesses of all sizes—can play a role in addressing social needs, and I was determined to find a way for my company to contribute.”

SO WHAT DID YOU DO? “I decided to emphasize purpose over profits.

My focus became how to deliver a better and more affordable way to find, buy, finance and sell homes. I moved away from the traditional, one-size-fits-all commission model in favor of flat-fee pricing and buyer rebates.

Our core strategy shifted to saving our clients tens of thousands of dollars so together we can make a social impact. Our clients can use their savings to fund the things that matter to them, including the charity of their choice.

Additionally, SRM Real Estate Group makes a donation to JDRF and to whichever charity our client chooses. In those cases where our client does not have a preferred charity, we introduce them to nonprofits doing meaningful work in our shared community.”

CAN YOU SHARE SOME OF THE CHARITIES THAT HAVE BENEFITTED? “Recent beneficiaries include weSPARK Cancer Support Center, Journey House, Alzheimer’s Association, Best Friends Animal Society, The Michael J. Fox Foundation, Union Rescue Mission and Food on Foot.”

WHAT’S NEXT FOR SRM REAL ESTATE GROUP? “Good question. It isn’t always easy to see what’s around the corner, especially in the residential real estate brokerage space, which is changing rapidly. I know we will continue to emphasize purpose over profits with a focus on creating partnerships that promote social good. Type 1 diabetes advocacy, youth enrichment and communitybuilding initiatives will be part of our core strategy. And a bike. I am pretty sure a bike will be involved.”

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE A BUSINESS OWNER ABOUT INTEGRATING PHILANTHROPY INTO THEIR COMPANY? “Be authentic, and begin by asking yourself a series of questions: What keeps me up at night? What problem do I want to solve or what injustice do I want to correct? What’s the difference I am trying to make? If the answers feel big and scary, you’re probably on the right path.”

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Scott Morris (far right) with members of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Los Angeles ride team in Death Valley

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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PHILANTHROPIC VANGUARDS

CONOR LYNCH FOUNDATION Jeri Dye Lynch, Founder & President

J

eri Dye Lynch started the Conor Lynch Foundation in 2011 to support programs that raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving and promote the safety of runners, pedestrians, cyclists and young drivers. Her 16-year-old son, Conor, was killed by a distracted hit-and-run driver in 2010, and she has worked for the last nine years as an advocate for street safety. Jeri’s featured charity, SoCal Families for Safe Streets, offers support, action and advocacy for individuals who have lost loved ones or have been seriously injured themselves in preventable traffic crashes. SoCal FSS supports Vision Zero—a program that aims to eliminate traffic deaths by 2025.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS SPECIFIC FEATURED CHARITY? “My personal goals and those of the Conor

featured charity:

SOCAL FAMILIES FOR SAFE STREETS

213-219-2483 | losangeleswalks.org/fss

Lynch Foundation were easily aligned with the goals of SoCal FSS and Vision Zero, so it was a natural fit. Also, as a bigger group we can be much more impactful and provide more support for each other. The gift we can give to people is the sharing of the stories of our loved ones who died in traffic crashes, which are totally preventable.”

traffic collisions. I was really proud to receive the first Rainbow Halo, and I am working with SoCal FSS in conjunction with the Los Angeles Department of Transportation to help install the other 99 Rainbow Halos—including several in the Valley. Each memorial will include a rainbow disc and a plaque, designed to raise awareness about traffic safety.”

TELL US ABOUT A MEANINGFUL CAMPAIGN YOU’RE WORKING ON. “Nearly a decade after my son was struck and killed while crossing the street, the intersection where he died has a new feature: a vivid, multicolored disc about the size of a dinner plate that casts a rainbow shadow across the pavement. The memorial, called Rainbow Halo, was the first of 100 to be installed at intersections across Los Angeles where drivers, pedestrians and cyclists were killed in

HOW CAN WE TAKE THE BEST CARE OF OURSELVES AND OUR FAMILIES THIS TIME OF YEAR? “By focusing on what we’re doing—whether it be driving or walking or cycling. I would ask all drivers to put your cell phone away so you’re not tempted to answer it. Pedestrians should not be distracted or on their phones.

It’s a busy festive time of year; people need to stay vigilant and remember that no text or call is worth it!”

15244 MAGNOLIA BLVD., SHERMAN OAKS | 818-429-2110 | INHONOROFCONOR.ORG

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

PHILANTHROPIC VANGUARDS

CHLOE ROSS

featured charity:

THE ROY AND PATRICIA DISNEY FAMILY CANCER CENTER AT PROVIDENCE SAINT JOSEPH MEDICAL CENTER

818-847-4721 | providence.org/locations/saint-joseph-medical-center/cancer

C

hloe Ross has worked for decades as a music teacher, often teaching the children of former students. She plays and teaches classical music—mostly piano.

Chloe is a philanthropist who serves as a board member for a variety of organizations.

and genomics because that work empowers patients with actionable information to get ahead of cancer—often before it starts. From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank the Disney family for creating this cancer center.

It’s such a special, lifesaving place.”

WHY DO YOU SUPPORT THE ROY AND PATRICIA DISNEY FAMILY CANCER CENTER AT PROVIDENCE SAINT JOSEPH MEDICAL CENTER? “One of their family members was diagnosed with cancer and there were no cancer centers in the area, so Roy and Patricia Disney created the center to care not just for themselves but for our whole community. Isn’t that amazing? We gave to the center because of Dr. Raul Mena, the doctor who treated my late husband, Lee, for cancer. Dr. Mena highly recommended investing in genetics

TELL US ABOUT ONE OF THE MOST MEANINGFUL FUNDRAISING EVENTS YOU HAVE ATTENDED. “There was an event on the roof of the Disney Family Cancer Center, and Richard M. Sherman played at the event. He is the composer who wrote the song “A Spoonful of Sugar” for the film Mary Poppins. It was magical! He played that song, along with a few others that hadn’t been performed live. It was an unforgettable experience.”

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

WHAT ARE SOME SIMPLE WAYS OUR READERS CAN GIVE BACK? “Whenever people ask me how they can give, I always refer them to Renée Bianco, the executive director of the Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center Foundation. I also would tell them about the Genetics Center, since that is the future of medicine and people may not think of it right away.”

WHAT WAS THE BEST GIFT YOU EVER RECEIVED? “After my husband’s diagnosis, we were told that he didn’t have much time. But thanks to Dr. Mena, we were given the gift of nine more years that Lee wouldn’t have had otherwise.

We took full advantage of it, traveling the world and making beautiful memories with our family. Dr. Mena is truly an angel.”

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Your #1 Neighborhood Expert

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Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdraw without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. Exact dimensions can be obtained by retaining the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed.

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Listed by Andrea Korchek | Director, Luxury Estates | The Agency AKorchek@TheAgencyRE.com | AndreaKorchek.com 818-371-0933

4701 SANCOLA AVENUE $4,495,000

ONCE OWNED BY WILLIAM HOLDEN & DENZEL WASHINGTON

Another signature home changes hands. — Paul Williams Architectural in Toluca Lake.

Craig Strong knows Luxury Craig Strong

Vice President, Luxury Home Sales 818.930.4050 strongrealtor.com Cal DRE 01450987

Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. DRE 01866771. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed.

compass.com

Over $1.2 Billion in Closed Career Sales Some additional dreams that came true in 2019!

Burbank

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Burbank

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Toluca Lake

3848 Rhodes Ave

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Toluca Lake

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Sherman Oaks

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Toluca Lake

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Chatsworth

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Burbank

947 Cambridge St

$1,200,000

Sherman Oaks

5940 Matilija Ave

$1,179,000

Tarzana

4233 Ellenita Ave

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Toluca Lake

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Studio City

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Sherman Oaks

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Sherman Oaks

4255 Greenbush Ave

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Tarzana

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2409 West Clark Ave

$1,220,000

Burbank

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$1,220,000

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420 North Brighton St

$1,150,000

Burbank

Craig Strong

1000 N. Ontario Ave

$1,096,000

Vice President, Luxury Homes Sales

818.930.4050

20 YEARS IMMERSED IN SAN FERNANDO VALLEY

23 YEARS COMBINED REAL ESTATE EXPERIENCE

strongrealtor.com

1000+ HOMES SOLD IN LOS ANGELES

ng Co

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

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Agent San Fernando Valley Agent Los Angeles Agent Nationwide for

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3835 Alomar Dr – SO- $2,950,000 4Br+4.5 Ba in 4,000 SqFt on a 16,641 SqFt Lot- FEATURED- Contemporary modern home with amazing views is located in the highly exclusive Longridge Estates and designed by the famed Southern California architects, Buff & Hensman. This two-story modernist custom-built home features a chef’s kitchen, wine room, and much more. The backyard has a grassy area and a sitting area.

#KeepingItRealEstate

15227 Valley Vista Blvd. – SO$2,995,000 5Br+7Ba in 4,180 SqFt on a 8,498 SqFt Lot – New construction home in Sherman Oaks! It features a bright open floor plan, chef’s kitchen & a 1,200 sq ft rooftop deck. The entertainer’s backyard offers a pool, spa, bbq, pool cabana, & much more.

3716 Alomar Dr – SO $3,995,000- 5Br+6.5Ba in 4,742 SqFt on a 43,763 SqFt LotSpectacular Longridge Estates gated property w/ 180-degree views from every room. Enter the foyer into a beautiful open floor plan & views of the mountains, canyons & city lights. In addition to the main house, there is a detached guest house, a detached gym, and a pool.

11452 Dona Dorotea - SC$1,995,000 4Br+3.5 Ba in 3,019 SqFt on a 8,535 SqFt Lot– Located in a highly sought out area, south of the Blvd. with quick access to the Westside sits this beautiful 2-story pool home. This home features an open floor plan, spacious living room, one bedroom downstairs, a huge master suite. The backyard has an outdoor patio, grassy side yard & a pool that creates a private outdoor oasis.

13243 Valleyheart Dr. – SO$1,385,000 3Br+2 Ba in 1,823 SqFt on a 6,329 SqFt Lot- Charming 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home with ultimate privacy and a pool.

It features two fireplaces, a living room with a wall of french doors, a separate art studio/office, an outdoor patio, and a rear backyard.

Call for your FREE market analysis! © 2019 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties (BHHSCP) is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC. BHH Affiliates LLC and BHHSCP do not guarantee accuracy of all data including measurements, conditions, and features of property. Information is obtained from various sources and will not be verified by broker or MLS. Buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information.

FEATURED PROPERTY FEATURED PROPERTY

6 BED | 4.5 BATH

5,041 SFT | 12,075 LOT

4628 Noeline Avenue, Encino

COMING SOON

12643 Sarah Street, Studio City ACTIVE

11560 Dilling Street, Studio City IN ESCROW

13520 Hesby Street, Sherman Oaks JUST SOLD

4224 Gentry Avenue, Studio City

#1 Team in the Valley #6 in Los Angeles #16 in California #60 in the U.S.

COMING SOON

14839 Round Valley Dr, Sherman Oaks ACTIVE

3781 Corbin Avenue, Tarzana SOLD OFF MARKET

12403 Landale Avenue, Studio City JUST SOLD

22723 Burbank Blvd, Woodland Hills

ACTIVE

4634 White Oak Avenue, Encino ACTIVE

18938 Wells Drive, Tarzana JUST SOLD

4139 Wilkinson Avenue, Studio City

ACTIVE

3895 Berry Drive, Studio City IN ESCROW

11608 Canton Place, Studio City JUST SOLD

4540 Tobias Avenue, Sherman Oaks

JUST SOLD

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14221 Chandler Blvd, Sherman Oaks

12020 Guerin Street #305, Studio City

Contact us today! info@chernovteam.com www.chernovteam.com

818.432.1524

CalDre Lic#01850113

Each office is independently owned and operated. If your property is listed with another broker, this is not a solicitation. Keller Williams Realty does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size, or other information concerning the condition or features of the property provided by the seller or obtained from public records or other sources and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information through personal inspection with appropriate licensed professionals.

ENCINO

4717 Encino Ave $5,595,000

Eric Lieberman 310.849.4900 DRE 01008206 Control4 smart house, modern Spanish estate, south of the Blvd., behind huge gates and tall hedges.

TOLUCA LAKE

4352 Forman Ave $4,500,000

STUDIO CITY

Craig Strong 818.930.4050 DRE 01450987

4226 Lemp Avenue $4,500,000

Michael Bergin 310.600.0715 DRE 01845572

SHERMAN OAKS

15000 Sunstone Pl $2,699,000 TOLUCA LAKE

4234 N. Clybourn Ave $2,495,000

ENCINO

Craig Strong 818.930.4050 DRE 01450987

17841 Palora St $2,395,000

Rose Fahey 818.262.3532 DRE 01910670

4104 Goodland Ave $1,639,000

SHERMAN OAKS

15008 Greenleaf St $1,749,000

Alan Taylor 818.650.1603 DRE 01369255

Kristin Neithercut 323.397.0800 DRE 02003278

Beautiful gated Montecito-inspired estate in Sherman Oaks.

Eric Lieberman 310.849.4900 DRE 01008206

5536 Tyrone Ave $1,295,000

STUDIO CITY

SHERMAN OAKS

Patty Ray 818.406.1853 DRE 01162851

Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01991628. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice.

No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate.

16 020 VA LLEY VISTA BOU LEVA RD Stunning Mediterranean compound with pool & sports court

6 bed & 7 bath | 8,000sqft. home | 25,540sqft. lot 16020Valley-Vista.com Offered at $5,145,000 | Shown By Appointment

SALLY FORSTER JONES Executive Director, Luxury Estates DRE# 00558939 310.579.2200 | showings@sfjgroup.com

Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01991628. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate.

Just Listed

$6,730,000 Hidden Hills

5207 Round Meadow Rd 6 Beds | 9 Baths | 7,059 Sq. Ft. | 59,611 Sq. Ft Lot Co-Listing with Dana & Jeff Luxury Homes

Happy Holidays from Robb & Nikki Friedman Proud sponsors of Walking Strong Walking Strong was founded in Los Angeles in 2014 by Valerie and Jorge Llauro. They are determined and committed in making their son and other Duchenne boys – the first ever survivors. Duchenne is a rare and little known genetic disease that desperately needs awareness and funding for continued scientific research. With national and global awareness, they hope to support afflicted families and ease the burden and severity of this very difficult disease. To donate, please visit walkingstrong.org/#donate

Luxury Estate Agents Specializing in Calabasas & Hidden Hills

Who says nice people finish last?

Robb Friedman 818.430.3663 BRE Lic# 02064738

robb.friedman@compass.com

Nikki Friedman 818.620.2490 BRE Lic# 01925350

nikki.friedman@compass.com

LetsDoThisLA.com

OVER $34 MILLION SOLD IN 2019 FOR SALE 5800 Murietta Avenue Valley Glen

FOR SALE 3527 Stonehill Place Sherman Oaks

FOR SALE 15000 Sunstone Place Sherman Oaks

IN ESCROW

IN ESCROW

IN ESCROW

SOLD

SOLD

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We’ve helped

more than 250 buyers & sellers!

Alan Taylor | 818.650.1603 | info@alantaylorrealestate.com Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01866771. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate.

DRE 01369255.

(310) 466-2022

TED FLEMING

Ted@TedFlemingHomes.com

$2,750,000

Chic Traditional Gem 4222 Agnes Avenue Studio City, CA 3 Beds | 3 Baths | Pool | Koi Pond | 14,946 SqFt FLAT LOT www.4222AgnesAvenue.com

$1,799,000

Mid Century View Home 14915 Rhinestone Drive Sherman Oaks, CA

3 Beds | 2 Baths | Chef’s Kitchen | Pool | Views

www.14915RhinestoneDrive.com DRE#01502327

This is not intended as a solicitation if your property is currently listed. Broker does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size, or other information concerning the condition or features of the property obtained from various sources.

Nobody does it better...

sold

16036 Valley Meadow Pl., Encino $4,799,000 Royal Oaks Colony

sold

3623 Green Vista Dr., Encino $1,999,000 Encino Hills Mid-Century w/View

active

sold

4670 Encino Ave., Encino $3,999,000 Rancho Estates

sold

17515 Embassy Dr., Encino $2,349,000 Amestoy Tennis Estate

10430 Wilshire Blvd., #904, Los Angeles $1,800,000 The Mirabella - Wilshire Corridor

sold

4734 White Oak Ave., Encino $1,799,000 Rancho Estates

sold

3937 Vista Linda Dr., Encino $1,999,000 English Manor View Estate

sold

15712 Sutton St., Encino $1,535,000 Encino Cul-de-Sac

sold

sold

4212 Grimes Pl., Encino $1,399,000 Lake Encino

3965 Sapphire Dr., Encino $1,499,000 Encino Hills

sold

sold

17348 Quesan Pl., Encino $1,399,000 Encino Hills

18353 Lake Encino Dr., Encino $1,399,000 Lake Encino w/Panoramic View

818.285.3688 www.CarolWolfe.com in escrow 19050 Wells Dr., Tarzana $1,299,000

TOP 200

Most Influential Business Leaders in the San Fernando Valley - 2019 San Fernando Valley Business Journal

sold

16839 Adlon Rd., Encino $1,199,000 Encino Development Opportunity

Exclusive Luxury Listings

2800 WHITE STALLION ROAD WESTLAKE VILLAGE

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$ 4,400,000 6 BEDS 7.5 BATHS 6,200 SQ. FT. 8,500 SQ. FT. LOT

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in the San Fernando Valley

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11219 DONA LOLA DRIVE

$1,575,000 4 BEDS 3.5 BATHS 3,079 SQ. FT. 20,651 SQ. FT. LOT

4233 ALLOTT AVENUE

$849,000 3 BEDS 2 BATHS 1,748 SQ. FT. 4,951 SQ. FT. LOT

19502 CARDIN PLACE

ENCINO

EMIL HARTOONIAN

818.924.2806 | LIC. # 01796925

STUDIO CITY

INGRID SACERIO

323.333.7018 | LIC. # 01905431

SHERMAN OAKS

LINDSAY HECKER

818.379.7117 | LIC. # 02050425

NORTHRIDGE

DAN WEISER

424.285.1958 | LIC. # 01757150

$2,800,000 7 BEDS 5 BATHS 4,618 SQ. FT. 16,763 SQ. FT. LOT

$1,795,000 3 BEDS 2 BATHS 2,036 SQ. FT. 9,382 SQ. FT. LOT

$1,379,000 5 BEDS 4 BATHS 4,000 SQ. FT.

$689,000 4 BEDS 3.5 BATH 1,814 SQ. FT. 25,084 SQ. FT. LOT

15000 SUNSTONE PLACE SHERMAN OAKS

ANDREA KORCHEK

818.371.0933 | LIC. # 01311917

3819 SCADLOCK LANE SHERMAN OAKS

MICHELLE SCHWARTZ

424.230.3716 | LIC. # 01889141

15919 MULHOLLAND PLACE SHERMAN OAKS

$2,699,000 5 BEDS 6 BATHS 5,000 SQ. FT. 24,707 SQ. FT. LOT

$1,599,000 3 BEDS 2 BATHS 2,200 SQ. FT. 11,876 SQ. FT. LOT

$869,000 48,787 SQ. FT. LOT

EMIL HARTOONIAN

818.924.2806 | LIC. # 01796925

5266 VANALDEN AVENUE TARZANA

JOHN TASHTCHIAN

818.968.2822 | LIC. # 01453364

$20,000/ MO 6 BEDS 7 BATHS 6,093 SQ. FT. 19,458 SQ. FT. LOT

THEAGENCYRE.COM

1

2

4 3

1.

503 N. Poinsettia

2.

17173 Strawberry Drive

3.

813 N. Spaulding Avenue

4.

5325 Collingwood Circle

MIR ACLE MILE | $4,399,000 | NE W LISTING

WEST HOLLY WOOD | $4,098,000 | AC TIVE

ENCINO | $5,699,000 | NE W LISTING

CAL ABASAS | $2,299,000 | AC TIVE

Danielle Peretz | Danielle.Peretz@theagencyre.com | 818.644.1477 | Lic. # 01897529 LU X U R Y R E A L E S TAT E AT T H E A G E N C Y R E .C O M

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

17437OakCreekCourt.com

16725OakViewDrive.com

5820CorbinAvenue.com

17437 Oak Creek Ct. | Encino | $2,199,000 16725 Oak View Dr. | Encino | $1,199,000 5820 Corbin Ave. | Tarzana | $1,249,000

IN ESCROW

16720BajioRoad.com 16720 Bajio Rd. | Encino | $4,899,000

IN ESCROW

4230ValleyMeadowRoad.com

4230 Valley Meadow Rd. | Encino | $7,450,000 4338 Bergamo Dr. | Encino | $2,499,000

IN ESCROW

SOLD

12442 Rye St. | Studio City | $999,000 13030 Valleyheart Dr. #114 | Studio City | $589,000 4150 Bakman Ave. | Studio City | $1,749,000

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

17809 Twilight Ln. | Encino | $2,650,000 16821 Ivyside Pl. | Encino | $1,795,000 5334 Overing Dr. | Woodland Hills | $1,050,000

Curious what your home is worth?

Contact Oren for a complimentary home analysis!

OrenEstates.com

ANDREW MANNING 818.380.2147 Lic# 00941825

$3,995,000 | 4513 Comber Ave, Encino | 5BD/8BA

$3,295,000 | 16231 Meadowridge Wy, Encino | 5BD/5BA $2,295,000 | 8001 Honey Dr, Hollywood Hills | 4BD/3½BA

$1,995,000 | 3193 Benedict Canyon Dr, BH | 3BD/3½BA (Co-Listed) Irene Tsu | 310.993.6141 | Lic # 00975925

$1,945,000 | 19714 Komar Dr, Tarzana | 5BD/4½BA

$1,699,000 | 3827 Dixie Canyon Ave, Sh Oaks | 4BD/3BA

$1,399,000 | 4016 Witzel Dr, Sherman Oaks | 3BD/3½BA

$1,199,000 | 19661 Rosita St, Tarzana | 4BD/3BA

$25,000/mo | 3816 Longridge Ave, Sh Oaks | 5BD/4½BA

©2019 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties (BHHSCP) is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC. BHH Affiliates LLC and BHHSCP do not guarantee accuracy of all data including measurements, conditions, and features of property.

Information is obtained from various sources and will not be verified by broker or MLS. Sellers will entertain and respond to all offers within this range. Buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information.

THE SPITZ | CAMERON GROUP SELLING A LUXURY LIFESTYLE AndrewSpitz.com

HarrietCameron.com

FranChavez.com

DRE#924610 Realtor®

DRE#675971 Realtor®

DRE#01013357 Realtor®

818-817-4284

818-380-2151

818-517-1411

©2019 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties (BHHSCP) is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC. BHH Affiliates LLC and BHHSCP do not guarantee accuracy of all data including measurements, conditions, and features of property. Information is obtained from various sources and will not be verified by broker or MLS. Buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information. DRE #01317331

3965 Valley Meadow Rd, Encino $4,746,000

3932 Vantage Ave, Studio City $6,500,000

4004 Hayvenhurst Dr, Encino $6,937,000

3644 Westfall Dr, Encino $2,875,000

Hayvenhurst Dr, Encino $6,937,000 164614004 Dorado Dr, Encino $2,865,000

17145 Addison St, Encino $2,045,000

3973 Westfall Dr, Encino $2,075,000

4101 Witzel Dr, Sherman Oaks $2,435,000

17425 Cumpston St, Encino $2,870,000

17310 Rancho St, Encino $6,250,000

3025 Arrowhead Dr, Lake Hollywood $3,995,000

4338 Empress Ave, Encino $2,750,000

4471 Woodley Ave, Encino $3,150,000

h 3635 Sheridge Drive Sherman Oaks Offered at $1,675,000 • 4 Bedrooms • 3 Bathrooms • 9,300 Sq. Ft. Lot • Aprox. 3,079 Sq. Ft. Home • Family Room • Pool • Roscomare Road School

∂

www.3635Sheridge.com

JUST LEASED

14567 Vista Haven Pl., Sherman Oaks | $7,500 JUST SOLD

JUST SOLD

JUST SOLD

3800 Hilton Head Way, Tarzana | $2,100,000

4034 Stoneybrook Dr., Sherman Oaks | $1,295,000

4515 White Oak Place, Encino | $1,755,000

JUST SOLD

FOR SALE

COMING SOON

3552 Stonewood Dr., Sherman Oaks | $1,435,000

4232 Allott Avenue, Sherman Oaks | $1,275,000

14916 Round Valley Dr., Sherman Oaks | $3,195,000

BARRY DANTAGNAN 818.426.8677

barrydantagnan@gmail.com

COLDWELL BANKER RESIDENTIAL BROKERAGE

© 2019 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Owned By a Subsidiary of NRT LLC. Broker does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size or other information concerning the condition or features of property provided by seller or obtained from public records or other sources, and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information through personal inspection and with appropriate professionals. If your property is currently listed for sale, this is not intended as a solicitation. Cal RE #01020477

A home that exceeds expectations deserves a mortgage to match.

• Up to 89.99% financing on a primary residence may be available on loan sizes up to $2 million1 • 80% financing on loan sizes up to $3 million-loan sizes up to $8 million available to well-qualified buyers who meet Citi’s High Net Worth2 requirements • Dedicated support every step of the way

Let’s find a mortgage that fits your needs. Call me today.

John Musso Home Lending Officer 818-518-1008 john.musso@citi.com citi.com/johnmusso NMLS# 448606 Terms, conditions and fees for accounts, programs, products and services are subject to change. This is not a commitment to lend. All loans are subject to credit and property approval. Certain restrictions may apply on all programs. Offer cannot be combined with any other mortgage offer. This offer contains information about U.S. domestic financial services provided by Citibank, N.A. and is intended for use domestically in the U.S. A minimum FICO score of 740 required. Must be primary residence. 1-unit properties only including condos, co-ops and PUDs. Borrowers must have a minimum of 12 months reserves. Mortgage insurance required. The property must be located in a stable market. Refinances are limited to rate/term refinances of an existing CitiMortgage loan. Refinances can result in cash back to the borrower. Properties in any MSA depreciating 5.01% or more per the Citi seriously declining market list or information found on the appraisal are not eligible. A Citibank deposit account is required for this action. A minimum of $50,000 in eligible post-close balances must be in place no later than 10 days prior to your scheduled closing loan. The anticipated post-close Citi eligible balances are based upon the balances you are anticipated to have following the closing of the mortgage loan and taking into account any down payment and/or closing costs you will be paying out of pocket at closing. Citi eligible balances include your personal account balance in your Citibank deposits accounts (checking, savings, certificate of deposit and money market). Balances from Citibank N.A. business accounts and retirement accounts other than IRAs and Keoughs (except Keough Plans with participants other than the account owner and spouses, or partners and their spouses) are excluded. Conforming loans are loans that are up to $484,350 or up to $726,525 in certain high cost markets. Jumbo loans are loans that exceed those conforming loan amounts. A Citibank Mortgage Representative can inform you what the conforming loan amount is in the area where your property is located.

1

A minimum FICO score of 720 required. Available for clients with a minimum of $500,000 or more in investable post-close assets, and at least $50,000 in traditional assets must be on deposit with Citi at least 10 days prior to closing. This amount may be part of the $500,000 eligibility requirement. Real estate, loan proceeds, stock options, restricted stock and personal property will not be counted as part of the $500,000 or more investable post-close assets or the $50,000 in traditional assets. Net cash value of life insurance can be counted as part of the $500,000 but not part of the traditional assets. Investable assets are defined as deposit accounts (checking, savings, money market, certificates of deposit), unrestricted stocks, non-vested stock and restricted stock, bonds and retirement accounts held by the individual who is personally liable on the loan. These asset types held in revocable trust may be used provided the trust document meets the Trust Policy. 100% of the face value of all assets, except non-vested stock and restricted stock, may be used to calculate the amount of funds available to meet the eligibility criteria. For non-vested stock and restricted stock, the borrower must be 100% vested within 1 year of closing and a maximum of 70% of value may be used to calculate qualifying equity. Additional conditions apply.

2

©2019 Citibank, N.A. NMLS# 412915. Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender. Citi, Citi and Arc Design and other marks used herein are service marks of Citigroup Inc. or its affiliates, used and registered throughout the world.

Christmas Reclaimed A MOM IN SHERMAN OAKS DISCOVERS THE UNEXPECTED GIFTS OF CREATING FAMILY TRADITIONS OF HER OWN. Written by Kathleen Laccinole | Illustrated by Yasmine Kahsai I dreaded the day—that end-of-summer morning I’d step outside to find that in just one night, the light had shifted, the earth’s axis tilted, and the sun dipped the world in Technicolor: fall. Nature sleeping, turning, falling off, fall-

I could pass out on the couch.

Later, I’d clean up the mess. Couldn’t get that tree down fast enough.

Yet time did its thing. The earth’s axis continued to shift,

ing down. The days would grow darker, as would my spirit,

and so did life. Grandpa passed; cousins moved away. And

because holidays were upon us.

for me, what once felt efficient and routine became—dare I

This time of year used to send my younger self into fits

say—fun. Halloween on Stansbury Avenue became a Mardi

of joy. Trick-or-treating in Mulwood, Thanksgiving at

Gras with too much wine, baked ziti and thousands of trick-

Grandpa’s, Christmas Eve at Uncle Bob’s, and Aunt Ruby’s

or-treaters. Thanksgiving moved to my mom’s, Christmas

fruitcake, subsequently regifted through a cycle of friends

Eve to my sister’s.

and family … until it arrived back with Ruby, delighted to receive such a delicious gift.

Then came the best day of all: Christmas.

My mom, my dad, my sister and me: the perfect square,

And Christmas Day moved to us. Me and my kids, the perfect triangle, left to create our own family traditions.

Soon our holiday festivities included midnight mass at St. Mike’s; arriving home to our noble pine covered in sparkly

replete with a majestic noble pine decked in red, green

Barbie ornaments. We leave out healthy carrots for Santa

and shiny gold balls. Dad playing Santa, passing out gifts.

and tack a “lesbian wreath” on the door. (Glittery troll dolls

Us girls giggling and teasing him. And when I grew up, it

dressed as brides; it’s tradition.) Santa still bites the cookie,

would be the same.

but instead of a thank-you note, he leaves a shot of tequila

Cue the record scratch. Not so fast. My daughter had colic, my dog had worms, my husband left, and the holidays were upon us. And just like that, life became a nonstop, tinsel-

(for Mom).

I don’t want to nap. I don’t want to miss a moment.

One by one, new traditions, like beloved holiday relatives,

decorated, Hallmark-sponsored reminder of my failure—that

came to visit and then stayed. And I realized my “failure”

perfect day I’d been unable to duplicate for my children.

was born of fantasies of what the holidays should look

Christmas carols were replaced by “Go to sleep, dam-

like, as opposed to what they mean. I learned that change

mit, so Santa can come!” Then me, alone, assembling the

is OK—even good. Sleeping means awakening. Falling

impossible. Eating the cookie for Santa, pouring the glass

down means standing up. And the darkest nights bring the

of milk down the drain. Falling into bed at 2 a.m., contem-

brightest stars. ■

plating getting a cat.

Still, the next morning, my sleepy-eyed little ones

114

|

Kathleen Laccinole is a freelance writer and author. Two of her

tiptoed on tiny soft feet to discover the magic. I’d revel in

essays are featured in the new book, We Got This: Solo Mom

their innocent bliss, then send them off with their spoils so

Stories of Grit, Heart, and Humor.

The Spitz | Cameron Group Selling A Lifestyle S P E C TA C U L A R E N C I N O H O M E S SU GO N RG SE T EO V US IE W S

V EX A LL PL EY OS I V VE IE W S

17925 Medley Dr., Encino $4,295,000

3949 Vista Linda Dr., Encino $2,888,000

SI

J E PA T N LI O N RA ER M V IC IE W S

N PO G L O E S L H TO O M RY E

3919 Westfall Dr., Encino $4,195,000 - $4,495,876

4050 Contera Rd., Encino $1,475,000

The Spitz | Cameron Group, Placed 70th Out of All Berkshire Hathaway Agents Internationally for 2018!

AndrewSpitz.com

HarrietCameron.com

FranChavez.com

DRE#924610 Realtor®

DRE#675971 Realtor®

DRE#01013357 Realtor®

818-817-4284

818-380-2151

818-517-1411

©2019 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties (BHHSCP) is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC. BHH Affiliates LLC and BHHSCP do not guarantee accuracy of all data including measurements, conditions, and features of property. Information is obtained from various sources and will not be verified by broker or MLS. Buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information.

DRE #01317331

Not every choice is complicated.

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Ask your insurance company or broker how you can switch today. For a list of the health plans we currently accept, give us a call or visit our website at: facey.com/insurance

Jody Levy, M.D. Board-Certified Adult Medicine Now at Facey Tarzana!

Tarzana Primary Care & Women’s Health 18133 Ventura Blvd • Tarzana, CA 91505 • 818-466-7700 FA C E Y. C O M/T A R Z A N A

1-844-MY-FACEY

@FACEYMEDI CAL