Ventura Blvd November/December 2020 by Moon Tide Media

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

20 WEDDINGTON’S LONG PUTT A Valley icon patronized by golf enthusiasts for a half-century

28 THE CHANGEMAKER Black Lives Matter activist Latora Green

32 LUXURY LATHER Morroco-inspired Ourika soap

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Beauty & Wellness

Three inspiring holiday tablescapes

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Pandemic musings from a wistful mom

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

PUBLISHER

Linda Grasso

Michelle Villas

Robin Sanders

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

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robin@goldenstate.is

Darren Elms

Nikki Smith

COPY EDITORS Bob Howells, Laura Watts

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sue@goldenstate.is

Tracy Berglass, Bob Buttitta,

Monica Orozco

Bonnie Graves, Dakota Kim Kara Mickelson, Jean Trinh, Emily Tecklenburg

VENTURA BLVD IS A DIVISION OF THE GOLDEN STATE COMPANY

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EDITOR’S LETTER

Simple Touches I don’t think I’ve ever looked forward to the holidays as

City. With triple-digit greens fees and sometimes as much

much as this year. Well, maybe when I was a kid eagerly

as six-digit private club membership fees, golf is a game

anticipating Santa’s slide down the chimney. Yeah, I was

for people with money. Not at Weddington. For less than

one of those kids who clung to that notion until about the

20 bucks anyone can play—and since the 1970s, they

age of 8. We lived in rural Maryland—what can I say?

have. Visit LA’s most chi-chi golf clubs and you’ll discover

In a year that’s been abnormal in so many ways, this

countless enthusiasts who learned the sport at Weddington.

year I am longing for tradition, routine, simplicity. I want

The public, par-3 course and driving range may soon be

to laugh and connect with loved ones and feel as carefree

shut down due to Harvard Westlake’s purchase of the prop-

as you can feel in middle age in in the midst of a pandem-

erty. Among the private school’s plans for the 16 acres: a

ic. It’s not excitement, travel or the extraordinary that I’m

parking structure and sports fields.

after this holiday season. That was me two years ago when

Also in this magazine, a compelling piece on Latora

my family and I traveled to the far-off Bahamian island

Green (page 28), the face of the Valley’s Black Lives Matter

of Eleuthera and got more than we bargained for when it

movement. I’ll be honest here. I’ve driven by this protest at

came to life on a remote island. (It was a challenge getting

the intersection of Ventura and Sepulveda a million times,

basic groceries, much less keeping our 20- and 22-year-

some days in 100-degree heat, and thought: I wonder how

old sons entertained.) Simply put, this season I want to

much longer they will do this. Who are these protesters and

dive deep into what I know, with the hope that the experi-

what exactly do they hope to accomplish by being at this

ence will have restorative powers. Make me feel whole and

traffic-choked intersection day in and day out? Meeting

more like myself.

Latora answered a lot of those questions, and I admire what

Those sentiments, which I suspect that some of you may be feeling as well, are reflected in this issue of VB—from the pictorial on three holiday tablescapes (page 36) to the feature on Weddington Golf & Tennis (page 20) in Studio

she has accomplished thus far. It’s all those small efforts, like Latora’s, that add up and hopefully effect change. On that note of hope, I’ll close. Happy holidays to you and yours and see you in 2021!

Linda Grasso Follow me on Instagram @she_sez

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weddington’s long putt FOR A HALF-CENTURY, THE COURSE AND DRIVING RANGE AT WEDDINGTON GOLF & TENNIS HAS LEFT ITS MARK ON LOCALS— FROM FIRST-TIME PLAYERS TO HARD-CORE ENTHUSIASTS. Written by Bob Buttitta | Photographed by Shane O’Donnell

Well before George Lopez became

Winged Foot Golf Club in New York, helped bring new

a prominent member at Lakeside

golfers to the course by giving lessons at the discount

Golf Club, the actor/comedian honed

around Southern California a place to come learn the

& Tennis, a 16-acre facility nestled

game without any scrutiny. (Even today, on some private golf courses, women still face restricted playing hours.) Having a top-notch practice facility and a 911-yard,

Angeles River, home to a 9-hole golf

9-hole golf course allows Weddington to appeal to and

course and a 24-stall practice range.

serve a wide variety of players.

Longtime Weddington golf professional Ron Del Barrio, who serves as Lopez’s instructor, says Lopez once told

For 23-year-old Price Stephens, Weddington was just part of growing up in Studio City. “The first time I went I was about 8 years old. I remem-

him that there was a time when he thought the only way

ber thinking—even back then—that the retro design of the

someone like him of Mexican-American descent would be

space was super cool,” Stephens shares. “I’ve always loved

on a golf course was on the back of a lawnmower.

the driving range. My buddies and I would go on weekends

The welcoming atmosphere that permeates Weddington

and sometimes after high school classes at Notre Dame.

helped Lopez fall in love with the game and the people

You’d walk in, buy some golf balls and then just find an

who call the Studio City course home.

open space. There would be serious golfers with cameras

But Lopez is far from the only person who has fallen in

and computers monitoring their swings and also terrible

love with golf as a result of Weddington’s charms. Since

golfers like myself learning how to correctly hit a ball.

opening in 1955 (under another name; it was sold and

There was never any sort of pretension there.”

renamed in the ’70s), the course has welcomed hundreds

The course is often frequented by local school golf

of thousands of golfers—from newcomers to veteran

coaches and their teams. 24-year-old Tomas Crowe

players—to practice and play.

started playing at Weddington when he was on the

That includes Del Barrio, who first came to Weddington

eigth-grade golf team at The Wesley School. “It is where

when he was 15 years old and living in Van Nuys. Del

I developed my confidence and my short game,” he says,

Barrio played many sports, but when his older brother

adding, “and it is still my number one place to play in

asked him to go hit golf balls with him at Weddington,

Los Angeles. You don’t have to commit to a whole day or

his first response was: Why?

make a reservation. You can just go out there on the spur

“To me, golf was a sport for very old guys who wore

of the moment and spend a few hours.”

ugly clothing, but that all changed as soon as I walked

Encino resident John Rucci was looking for a place to

onto the course,” Del Barrio says. “There were young

get his 8-year-old son, Sam, some on-course experience

people and older people. Everyone was so nice and

when he heard about Weddington from a friend. Sam is

welcoming and treated me great. We hit balls and I was

still learning how to play the game and conduct himself

horrible, but I got the bug—not because of the sport but

on the course.

because of the environment at Weddington.” Weddington’s friendly environment has been part of

“We needed a place where we could come and have Sam hit balls, putt, hit off the tee and out of the rough and

its draw since the course’s inception. Former actor Joe

get a feel for the game,” Rucci says. “If we went out to

Kirkwood Jr. opened the course in 1956 and ran it until

my (private) club, I would feel a lot of stress because you

selling it to George McCallister Sr. and Art Anderson.

worry about holding other members up. Here there is none

McCallister, who at one time was the teaching pro at

women, and the idea caught fire, giving women from

his golf skills at Weddington Golf between Whitsett Avenue and the Los

rate of 50 cents. He also had the idea to offer lessons to

of that pressure or stress. The distances are manageable

“THE CAMARADERIE AND SENSE OF COMMUNITY IS SOMETHING I WILL NEVER FORGET.”

(the longest hole is 135 yards) and a lot of the players out here are new to the sport, so there’s no pressure.” While the 9-hole course is the body of the facility, the lighted driving range (open daily until 11 p.m.) is its heart, serving not only as a place for golfers to work on their game, but a spot where members of the community gather to sit, talk and enjoy the camaraderie that the place inspires. For decades, the legendary Bob Hope would amble over from his home in Toluca Lake on Sunday nights to hit golf balls. Clint Eastwood, Jack Nicholson and Sylvester Stallone have all been spotted on the property numerous times. Seinfeld and Curb Your Enthusiasm creator Larry David is a longtime member at Riviera Country Club, but still comes to the Weddington range twice a week to practice. And then there are those enthusiasts who can no longer play the game but still like to come out and watch others practice, enjoying the sights and sounds that make Weddington such a popular hangout. Studio City resident Stephen Stettler has been a regular for more than 20 years. “Even when I lived in Glendale for 18 years, I drove across town to hit balls here because it’s in such great condition—better balls, better mats—it’s just a great place to work on my game,” Stettler explains. “I only use the range, but it’s great having a golf course like this where newcomers can learn how to play and how to act on the golf course. I don’t think a regulation-size championship golf course works for that. We need these kinds of places to help bring new players into golf.” Over the years Weddington has spawned countless multigenerational golf families. That includes the greenkeeping staff. Zeke Avila was the original groundskeeper for the course in 1957. His son Zeke Avila Jr. took over when his dad retired, and currently his grandsons also work at Weddington. Growing up in Studio City, Matt Shuman often played golf with his father, Phil, the FOX-11 newscaster, at Weddington. The course became a second home for Matt, who eventually played high school golf at Campbell Hall and collegiate golf at Claremont McKenna College in Pomona. As a sophomore, he was part of Claremont’s NCAA Division III

National Championship team. “I don’t think there are many places I have spent more

“I’ll be super bummed if it shuts down, because there is just nothing else like it in LA,” says Tomas Crowe.

time or had such a big impact on me than Weddington,”

“Sure, one day I’d love to join a private golf club. But I’m

Shuman says. “Even though when I was there I was in

a 24-year-old entrepreneur with a cocktail brand startup

my own little bubble working on my game, I could not

(Dezo) and it’s going to be a long, long time before I can

help noticing the people who would be there all day sit-

ever afford those kind of membership fees.”

ting on the bench, having a cup of coffee and watching

Matt Shuman saw the golf course he played in college

me hit balls. The camaraderie and sense of community is

shut down and replaced with apartments. He hates the

something I will never forget.”

thought of losing Weddington, too.

The days of Weddington serving as a community

“I have a few friends I have known since kindergarten

gathering spot may be coming to an end. In 2017, the golf

and some of our best memories are the time we spent at

course was sold to Harvard Westlake School for a reported

Weddington,” Shuman says. “There is such a big com-

$40 million. The school has announced plans to shut down

munity around golf, and it’s intertwined with a facility

and bulldoze the golf course, replacing it with “state-of-

like Weddington. If it does close, it will leave a huge void

the-art athletic facilities” that would stretch across the

in the community.”

site, which is less than a mile from the school’s campus.

Though its fate is uncertain, life continues at

A local resident group is fighting the school’s plans,

Weddington. On any given day, the driving range is bus-

but with such a mighty, deep-pocketed opponent, it is an

tling with swings—and misses—and golfers are queuing

uphill battle.

up for a few hours of sun and sport, just as they have for

That’s a bitter pill for many Weddington players.

a half-century. ■

The Changemaker YOU MAY NOT HAVE MET LATORA GREEN, BUT CHANCES ARE YOU HAVE SEEN HER AS THE FACE OF THE VALLEY’S LARGEST BLACK LIVES MATTER PROTEST. Photographed by Monica Orozco

If you travel traverse the Valley, Latora Green is hard

We’ve had people flip us the bird and some have even

to miss. Since May 31 she has spearheaded the Black

flashed their guns at us. That doesn’t scare me. I’m out

Lives Matter protest at the intersection of Ventura and

here fighting for lives.

Sepulveda Boulevards. From noon to 8 p.m. each day, Latora and her fellow demonstrators work to boost

I DROVE BY ONE DAY THIS PAST SUMMER—

awareness and create change. Having lost her job in

IT WAS SOMETHING LIKE 110 DEGREES—AND YOU

human resources for a nonprofit due to COVID layoffs,

WERE OUT THERE.

Latora feels she has found her calling in life. Here she

Yes, but my ancestors went through so much worse. I

shares with VB editor Linda Grasso how her grassroots

can’t think of a reason why I can’t be strong and keep

protest has recently picked up steam, morphing into the

pushing. I think it’s important for people to drive by and

new nonprofit Valley of Change.

think: Wow, she is still out there! I want onlookers to think: Why is she doing this?

WHEN YOU FIRST SET UP IN FRONT OF THE SHERMAN OAKS GALLERIA, WHAT WAS YOUR PLAN?

I UNDERSTAND YOU ARE ALSO DOING OUTREACH FOR

Originally I started going to the area with my husband

THE HOMELESS.

in May, around when the National Guard showed up. I

Yes, we feed the homeless and pass out COVID test kits.

didn’t have posters or signs. I just put my fists up and

If someone walks by and expresses a need—whether it is

started chanting, “Black lives matter. We want justice.”

for Gatorade or housing—we’re going to try and help.

Then people started joining in and we formed a group.

I’ve always been interested in feeding the homeless and

But I’m the only one who has not missed a day.

doing outreach, but never wanted the hassle of doing the paperwork to form a nonprofit. But now I’ve officially

WHAT KEEPS YOU GOING?

formed the 501(c)(3) Valley of Change. Our donors can

There are times when I’m out there by myself. But I feel

now file for tax credits.

like whether we have one or 100 people, we are getting the same message across to the community. People

HOW HAS THE MALL RESPONDED TO YOU ALL BEING

share their support every day, blowing kisses from cars,

OUT THERE?

raising fists or shouting out “I love you” and “thank

The Galleria isn’t really supportive, but that’s typical of

you!” Sometimes people make a contribution. It gives

shopping center management. I don’t take it personally.

me inspiration.

The street corner is public property and we have a right to

be there. Some of the stores and restaurants have shown support, sharing restrooms and giving us ice. HOW LONG WILL YOU CONTINUE ON THAT SAME STREET CORNER? As long as we need to. I want policy change regarding police brutality and the unjust way they treat the homeless—just arresting them, when so many have mental health issues. Congressman Brad Sherman has come out to our protest and I now have his information. I want national policy

BY MYSELF. BUT I FEEL LIKE WHETHER WE HAVE ONE OR 100 PEOPLE, WE ARE GETTING THE SAME

WHAT REALLY MOTIVATES YOU?

MESSAGE ACROSS TO

bring their children. Kids don’t have to be Black to put their fists up. I say to them: I’m fighting for you too. You don’t have to be Black. I’m trying to fix our world for you all too. It takes everybody, not just Black people. It’s about unity. ■

WHEN I’M OUT THERE

change, and for that you need Congress.

When white kids join us. We’ve had a lot of parents

“THERE ARE TIMES

THE COMMUNITY.”

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Luxury Lather MOROCCAN-BORN SOPHIE WIZMAN TOUCHES ON HER ROOTS TO CREATE OURIKA SOAP, PART SENSUAL EXPERIENCE, PART WORK OF ART.

For Sophie Wizman, soapmaking was a circuitous route. She worked in the fashion industry for 25 years, then took a few years off to raise her kids. “It was lovely for the first year or two. And then I was like, OK, my kids aren’t really little anymore and I need something for myself.” Always interested in natural products, one day soap got on her radar. She had bought some soap and noted that it was really much more moisturizing than the other soaps at her house in the northeast Valley. “And so I started doing some research and buying soap bars from all over the world—just to try different brands. At the time, my husband was building a wine cellar at our house. And when he finished doing the groundwork, he said, ‘Would you like this as a studio for you?’ And I said what a great idea!” And so, armed with her own studio, Sophie started making soap. After a few classes on soapmaking, she started thinking about how bathing is a ritual in Morocco. “When I was studying in France, I used to go visit my parents in Morocco. As soon as I’d see my mom, the first thing she would do is get me into the bath and get me scrubbed up to rejuvenate my skin.” She made a trip to the Ourika Valley and the Atlas Mountains and met with some Berber women who showed her some of the things they were doing with natural products and spices and oils. Sophie took what she learned and put her own unique spin on soap, putting natural shredded loofa in the bars, which serves an exfoliant “and really allows your skin to be moisturized by all the oils.” Olive, coconut, argan oil and shea butter are in Ourika soaps as well as spices like turmeric and herbs like lavender. All the soaps—as well as new body oil and candle lines—are all made in Los Angeles. “Ourika has evolved a lot this year. And a lot of it emanated from our loyal customers telling us what they love. A friend of mine, for example, fell in love with the scent of wild geranium. I thought, I should make a body oil with wild geranium. Just like fashion, when you get good feedback, you need to go in that direction.” ■

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Now accepting applications for the 2021-2022 school year Virtual Open House Dates Thursday, Nov. 14, 2020 - 7PM for more information and upcoming events:

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please be seated WITH THE HOLIDAYS UPON US, WE SHARE THREE THOUGHTFUL TABLESCAPES TO ELEVATE FESTIVITIES. Styled by Tracy Berglass Photographed by Shane Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Donnell

THE RUSTIC TABLE A bucolic table set off by sophisticated, rustic touches including antlers and rattan, enlightened with hints of ivory, celadon green flowers, flowering pink berry branches and hemmed linen napkins in eggplant. Magnolia leaves, fresh pomegranates and mini pears tie it all together. Table runner by Crate and Barrel; linen napkins from Hudson Grace Brentwood; antlers purchased at LA Flower Mart; wooden plates by Williams Sonoma; wineglasses by Pottery Barn; vintage candlestick holders; place setting tags from Paper Source.

THE KIDS TABLE Keep the little ones busy so the parents can enjoy a leisurely meal with this fun, colorful, interactive table. Encourage kids to draw their place settings with crayons and decorate with the stamps and ink. With all the activity, they may even sit still until itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time for dessert! White butcher paper bought on Amazon; orange checked tablecloth folded to be used as runner from Joannâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s; decorative stamps, ink and burlap bags (holding crayons) from Paper Source; rattan turkeys and napkins from Crate & Barrel; kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; glasses are repurposed containers from Nest candles; white dinner plates from World Market.

THE BLUE & BLACK TABLE Get out your good china and silver for this elegant tablescape that works for any number of special occasions that fall between now and the first of the new year. But donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let all the fanciness shackle you. The light baby-blue plate in the middle of the stack is melamine! White hydrangeas in full bloom complete the formal-withoutbeing-stuffy look. Blue tassels (cut off a string of garland) tied on napkins from Paper Source; black and white china by Wedgewood; crystal wine glasses by Riedel; vintage champagne glasses and sterling silver candelabras, silver flatware by Reed and Barton; blue melamine salad plate from Target.

BEAUTY & WELLNESS We are all aware of the essentials for good health: eating healthfully, working out, getting good sleep and paying attention to our bodies. But when life gets busy, things slip. And that’s where our Beauty & Wellness section comes in. On these pages, you’ll meet some of the top Valley professionals in the beauty and wellness industry. Read on to learn how they can help you beautify, relax and renew—so you look and feel your best.

COHEN OUTPATIENT SURGERY CENTER DR. ANDREW T. COHEN

ELLIOT M. HIRSCH, MD, INC.

BELLA SKIN INSTITUTE DR. ANNA D. GUANCHE

WRITTEN BY LAURA L. WATTS PHOTOGRAPHED BY MATT COOKE & SHANE O’DONNELL

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

BEAUTY & WELLNESS

COHEN OUTPATIENT SURGERY CENTER Andrew T. Cohen, MD, FACS

r. Andrew Cohen grew up in Southern California, completed his medical degree at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland and performed his plastic surgery residency at Loma Linda University Medical Center. A board-certified plastic surgeon, he has worked in health care for nearly two decades and opened his practice in 2001. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO WORK IN THIS INDUSTRY? “When I was 16 years old I watched my dad, who was a general surgeon, perform a mastectomy for a patient with breast cancer. I then watched the plastic surgeon come in and make new breasts. From that moment, I knew exactly what I wanted to do when I grew up.” SHARE SOME FEATURES OF YOUR CENTER. “Our office has an AAAASF-accredited, very private surgery center. We have an amazing physician assistant, Breana Wheeler, who does PRP and microneedling—great for revitalizing the skin and fading surgical scars. Another technological addition, which is so simple, is our HIPAA-compliant ability to text our patients; they can text us back when they need anything. It is one aspect of providing top-notch customer service to our patients.” SHARE A SIMPLE FIX FOR APPEARING MORE REFRESHED AND RELAXED. “Taking care of your skin is the most important aspect of looking refreshed: sleep, lots of water, vitamins like C and D, and zinc. We stress nonchemical products in our office, and sunscreen is a must year-round!” WHAT HAS BEEN THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE OF WORKING IN THE BEAUTY AND WELLNESS INDUSTRY DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC? “We had to stop all elective and nonemergency procedures for a few months at the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak. Slowly the governor allowed us to return to doing surgery, and patients have been very eager. Many people are working from home or not currently working, so they have time and privacy to heal. We require all patients to get a COVID-19 test a few days prior to surgery. I think this will be a common practice until we have a safe vaccine and people are able to access it.” WHO OR WHAT ARE YOU MOST GRATEFUL FOR? “I am most grateful for my health and the health of my family and friends. I am also grateful that I get to come to work every day and do what I love: work with patients to improve their lives. I couldn’t do what I do without my amazing staff and family. I feel like the luckiest guy in the world.”

5400 BALBOA BLVD., SUITE 217, ENCINO | 310-659-8771 | ANDREWCOHENMD.COM | @BEVERLYHILLSSURGEON SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

BEAUTY & WELLNESS

L to R: Tricia, nurse injector; Dr. Hirsch; Jo, aesthetician

ELLIOT M. HIRSCH, MD, INC.

oard-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Elliot Hirsch, MD, specializes in breast surgery and also offers nonsurgical facial rejuvenation procedures. He grew up in Los Angeles and graduated from the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California. Dr. Hirsch is an active researcher in the field of plastic surgery and has co-authored more than 40 manuscripts and book chapters. He is the chair of plastic surgery for Providence Cedars-Sinai Tarzana Medical Center.

WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER YOUR SPECIALTY PROCEDURE? “I practice the full spectrum of plastic and reconstructive surgery and specialize in both cosmetic and reconstructive breast surgery including microsurgical and other forms of complex breast reconstruction, breast reduction, breast lift, breast augmentation and breast implant removal and revision. I perform several

cosmetic surgery procedures that can enhance patients’ aesthetic appearance, including body contouring after massive weight loss and facial plastic surgery. In addition, we offer Botox and other fillers, chemical peels and facial treatments, lasers, and PRP to reduce wrinkles and add volume.” SHARE A SIMPLE FIX FOR APPEARING MORE REFRESHED AND RELAXED. “Self-care is so important during this stressful time in our lives. You don’t need to spend a lot of money on fancy, watered-down skin care to feel better. Taking a nice steamy shower to open up your pores and washing your face with a calming face wash can make a big difference. Finish with a hyaluronic acid-rich face cream before bed, like our Orá Rx HA Calming Balm, to hydrate and revitalize tired, stressed skin.” WHAT ARE YOU MOST GRATEFUL FOR? “This year especially, I am so grateful for the health of my staff and family and friends.

I’m also grateful that we have been able to safely remain open through the pandemic and help so many patients with essential surgeries and treatments.” WHAT HAVE BEEN YOUR PROUDEST MOMENTS DURING THE RECENT CRISIS? “Our goal was to make sure our employees remained employed full time with their health insurance and retirement plans safely intact during the crisis. We are proud to still have all of them working for us, fully employed with all benefits, and have even grown to include more staff members in the last few months.” TELL US ABOUT YOUR SKIN CARE LINE, ORÁ RX. “We launched our medical-grade skin care line, Orá Rx, to meet the needs of our patients and others looking to hydrate, soothe, protect and rebalance their skin. It is available in our office and on our website, amazon.com and orarxskin.com.”

4955 VAN NUYS BLVD., SUITE 715, SHERMAN OAKS | 818-825-8131 | HIRSCHPLASTICSURGERY.COM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

BEAUTY & WELLNESS

BELLA SKIN INSTITUTE Anna D. Guanche, MD, FAAD, Owner/Founder

ella Skin Institute is a full-service dermatology and aesthetic surgery practice directed by Dr. Anna Guanche—a board-certified dermatologist with more than 15 years of experience. Her “dermatology dream team” cares for all types of skin conditions but places special emphasis on the areas of cosmetic dermatology and laser surgery. WHAT DO YOUR PATIENTS LIKE BEST ABOUT YOU? “We love our patients and treat them as friends and family. Patients love us because we are consumers of our own offerings, so we clearly believe in what we are doing.” WHAT IS YOUR AREA OF SPECIALTY? “We offer a full range of cosmetic procedures and devices to enhance the appearance of the skin and reverse signs of aging. We best serve our patients by giving them optimal, specific treatment rather than trying to recommend the same treatment for everyone.” WHAT CONCERN DO YOU OFTEN HEAR FROM PATIENTS? “Patients desire to look natural after their aesthetic treatment. Our practice provides treatments that are well planned and administered in the safest, most conservative way to ensure a natural look and minimal downtime. At the intersection of proper evaluation and counseling, pretreatment care and an artistic eye is where optimal results are achieved.” TELL US ABOUT YOUR STAFF. “Our staff has been nicknamed the ‘derm dream team’ for good reason. The medical assistants are caring and experienced and understand patient needs. Physician assistant Ananda Fidani, PA-C, has more than 10 years of experience in dermatology, and Alexa Herzig, PA-C, joined us more than a year ago to make us even better. Our esthetician, Gina, hails from the East Coast and is trained and enthusiastic about the latest facial treatments.” TELL US ABOUT RECENT HAPPENINGS AT BELLA SKIN. “My new book, Seven Days to Sexy, Insider Secrets from a Celebrity Beauty Doctor, was released nearly a year ago. This ‘beauty bible’ divulges secrets of the red carpet—how celebrities look stunning and ageless, and tips to elevate your own look and transform into the sexiest, most gorgeous version of yourself you want and deserve to be! Also, after years of realizing the need for a great acne treatment, we will make the ultimate pimple cream—THE pimple cream, Anna Guanche M.D.™ Miracle Cream—available widely by January.”

23622 CALABASAS RD., SUITE 339, CALABASAS | 818-225-0117 | BELLASKININSTITUTE.COM SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Now Open and Serving Under the Stars!

Come and enjoy our brand new outdoor patio! We’ve brought the Vibrato vibe & ambiance to an open air space behind the restaurant. More than just eating outside, it’s an entire experience. From the setting, to the new menu and new craft cocktails, to our service, you’re absolutely going to love what we’ve created for you.

LOCATED IN BEL AIR, LOS ANGELES • VIBRATOGRILLJAZZ.COM • 310.474.9400

THE SAUCE

IN THE BAG The Valleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s legacy eateries show how they are holding strong. More on page 48.

THE SAUCE

the show must go on HOW THE VALLEY’S MOST BELOVED LEGACY RESTAURANTS HAVE PIVOTED DURING THE PANDEMIC. Written by Jean Trinh | Photographed by Shane O’Donnell

It’s been an emotional roller coaster ride for Valley restaurant owners, who have had to adapt to dynamic

When dining was allowed again, Christy transformed two of her 6,000-square-foot parking lots into outdoor dining patios. She beautified them with white pop-up tents, string lights, and hanging and potted plants; she

pandemic regulations for months,

wanted to give guests a comfortable place where they

with no end in sight. They’ve had

could have a margarita and de-stress. Casa Vega started

to take extra precautions to make sure their customers and employees are safe, and at the same time pay bills, rents and staff with lowered

offering takeout and delivery for the first time in its long history. “I think the biggest thing about this is that it’s not one simple adaptation; it’s constant pivoting,” Vega says. “You might as well just stay on your heel and keep turning because everything changes minute by minute.”

profit margins—at a time when profit margins were already an issue. Restaurateurs have faced challenges

VALLEY INN Sophia Brodetsky, who owns the 73-year-old Valley Inn restaurant and bar in Sherman Oaks with her husband,

in recent years with an increased

Boris, describes the situation as devastating. “Trust me,

minimum wage, high rental rates, and

I’ve been through a lot of tough times, from being a

mandated health insurance coverage for employees. Nevertheless, some are figuring out a way to forge ahead.

Russian immigrant and coming here with no English to overcoming it and working and getting a job,” Sophia, says. “There has been nothing like this before.” Sophia felt completely abandoned by her bank, Wells Fargo, when she tried to apply for a PPP loan. She ended up having to hire some new employees because some

CASA VEGA

servers who were in the higher risk group for COVID-19

It was a big shock for Casa Vega owner Christy Vega when

made the hard decision to not return to work. She spent

Los Angeles County ordered restaurants to halt in-person

thousands of dollars adhering to new indoor dining

dining in mid-March to slow the spread of COVID-19. For

regulations only to have the county end that July 1. Valley

nearly 65 years, the Mexican restaurant in Sherman Oaks

Inn, which offers takeout and delivery, was eventually

had been the type of classic joint known for friendly table

able to convert some parking spaces into outdoor dining.

and bar service from familiar staff members who had

by loyal customers who had become their friends over

set up for online ordering or delivery services.

the last 22 years, ever since the couple took over Valley

Christy, 43, ended up closing Casa Vega for six weeks.

Some would leave anonymous notes with money to keep

get her Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan funded,

the business going. One customer connected them to a

brought back her employees, and then reopened as a

company that helped them secure a PPP loan.

she says.

Inn. Customers were constantly checking in on them.

The second-generation owner waited until she could

drive-through on May 2. It was a “smashing success,”

In all this darkness, the Brodetskys were lifted up

been working there for decades. But the restaurant wasn’t

“For the first two or three weeks, I would get up and start crying because of the text messages and phone calls

Christy Vega at Casa Vega

“TRUST ME, I’VE BEEN THROUGH A LOT OF TOUGH TIMES, FROM BEING A RUSSIAN IMMIGRANT AND COMING HERE WITH NO ENGLISH TO OVERCOMING IT AND WORKING AND GETTING A JOB. THERE HAS BEEN NOTHING LIKE THIS BEFORE.” that we would get from customers,” Sophia shares. “It was really touching.”

BRENT’S DELI For longstanding restaurants like these, there’s a strong bond between the generations of customers and owners. Ron Peskin, the 79-year-old patriarch of Brent’s Deli, bought his Northridge restaurant in 1969 and opened a second location in Westlake Village in 2015. His son Brent, daughter-in-law Dori, and granddaughters Taylor and Jordan now run the two outposts. Ron still works at least five days a week. On any day of the week, a guest can show up at the restaurants and a member of the Peskin family will be there, adding to the homey feeling of the deli. “I love carrying on my grandfather’s legacy,” says 28-year-old Taylor Peskin. “He always says, ‘I didn’t think when I bought this place for $1,800 50 years ago

Boris Brodetsky at Valley Inn

Taylor, Brent and Ron Peskin at Brentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Deli

that it was going to live to see three generations, to have

been doing their own delivery, and were on third-party

my grandchildren working here full-time.’”

delivery apps. During the pandemic, Alexandra came up

Taylor Peskin, who has early memories of standing on

with the idea of using her restaurant’s kitchen to create a

milk crates to work the cash register, credited Brent’s

separate dessert concept that delivers late night. She said

Deli’s regulars and staff—some of whom have been

they’re now selling as many desserts as they are pizzas.

working there for over 20 years—for keeping their business open during these difficult times. She also feels lucky that they had already established a good reputation for takeout and delivery prior to the pandemic, and even had refrigerated trucks delivering all

“Every week you have to figure out what’s going on with the trends and see if you can fit into them somehow,” Alexandra says. “You have to be creative, especially right now with what’s going on with COVID.” Alexandra says that while third-party delivery apps bring

over Southern California. Brent’s Deli was able to bring

new customers to her restaurant—something she considers

back many of its employees by participating in Governor

to be marketing—they cut into her profit margins because

Gavin Newsom’s Great Plates program, a meal delivery

of their high fees. She doesn’t feel it’s right to increase her

service for California’s seniors and adults who are at high

prices. That’s because of her “small-town mentality” when

risk for COVID-19. While they were initially hit by the

it comes to her eatery; after all, a lot of her regulars are

drop in their catering business, they’re now starting to

already struggling, yet are helping her by ordering from her

see sales rise again.

restaurant. She wants to help them back.

ANTONIO’S PIZZERIA

since she was 25 and he 24. Their late Italian father,

Alexandra Lunardon, who owns the 63-year-old

Fabiano Lunardon, had saved enough money as a shoe

Antonio’s Pizzeria in Sherman Oaks with her brother

repairman to buy the restaurant from its original owner,

Steven, also felt like they were in a good place when the

Antonio Miceli, in 1988. It was a legacy for his children,

pandemic hit. They had an updated website, had already

and he was hands-off in the business.

She’s been running Antonio’s Pizzeria with her brother

Steven Lunardon at Antonio’s Pizzeria

Alexandra felt her father, whom she calls her hero,

never seen anything wipe out businesses like this—and

young because they were mature for their age. The family

he’s 86 years old.

immigrated from Argentina in 1972 without any of them

to outdoor dining this winter, and how the dip in usual

had to start his life over at 42.

seasonal profits will affect their businesses. However, in light of all the permanent closures, all these owners

explains. “Back then when I came out here, I didn’t

feel grateful that they’re still operating and believe that

realize the sacrifices my dad made until I hit 42 myself.”

they’ll be able to weather this storm, taking it one day at

In her 32 years of running the business, Alexandra has dealt with everything from recessions to writers’ strikes.

a time and adapting to whatever hits them next. “My employees and I have decided that we are doing

She says the pandemic is different, because instead of

the best we can and we want to give our customers

folks just tightening their belts for a period of time,

our all. Every single employee feels like that, from me

there’s an extra challenge in getting customers to feel

down,” Christy says. “We’re just trying to have a little

comfortable about going out to eat no matter how many

fun and keep our spirits up. I think we’ve hit the bottom

safety precautions they take.

and hopefully from here on out it’s going to be a little

Christy Vega says that when she talked to her father,

Many restaurateurs are wondering how they’ll adjust

speaking English. Alexandra was 9 at the time; her father “I felt a sense of responsibility to help my dad,” she

the founder of Casa Vega, Ray Vega, he said that he’d

entrusted the restaurant to them when they were so

bit easier.” ■

CELEBRATING THE BEST OF CALIFORNIA

goldenstate.is

@ourgoldenstate

THE SAUCE

Comfort Zone TWO EASY, GLUTEN-FREE DISHES FOR HOLIDAY FARE WITH FAMILIAR FLAVORS AND A GOURMET TWIST. Written, styled & photographed by Kara Mickelson

TURKEY & SAGE MEATBALLS WITH PINE NUTS & MARSALA BUTTER SAUCE Serves 4

TURKEY MEATBALLS

In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter and

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

sauté onion and fennel until translucent. Remove

1 cup onion, diced small

from heat and cool.

1 cup fennel bulb, diced small

In a medium bowl, mix egg, rice, sour cream,

1 egg

spices, fresh herbs, garlic and pine nuts. Add

1 cup white rice, cooked and cooled

ground turkey and combine. Cook a small portion of

2 tablespoons sour cream

meatball mixture to check seasoning. Season with

1 tablespoon ground sage

salt to taste. Use a scoop or hand-roll 12 large or 24

½ teaspoon ground white pepper

medium meatballs.

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Heat remaining butter and oil in large saucepan.

1 teaspoon onion powder

Cook meatballs, turning frequently until brown

⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper

and firm. Remove meatballs from pan. Reserve

1½ tablespoons fresh sage leaves, minced

pan drippings.

(reserve a few whole for garnish)

In same pan, melt 3 tablespoons butter over

1½ teaspoons thyme leaves, minced

medium heat. Add shallot and cook until tender.

1 teaspoon rosemary leaves, minced

Add wine and cook until reduced by half. Mix ¼ cup

1 tablespoon fresh flat-leaf parsley, minced

of the broth with cornstarch until dissolved. Add

6 cloves fresh garlic, minced

to pan and continue to cook. Add salt, pepper and

½ cup pine nuts, lightly pan-toasted

seasonings. Reduce until sauce thickens. Remove

1 pound ground turkey

from heat and stir in remaining butter.

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Return meatballs to pan to reheat and finish cooking sauce. While cooking, slowly add additional

MARSALA WINE BUTTER SAUCE

broth, while maintaining sauce consistency. If add-

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

ing sour cream, remove meatballs first. Stir in sour

1 large shallot, diced small

cream and top with fresh herbs.

¾ cup dry Marsala wine

Serve meatballs with sauce, on top of mashed

2¼ cups chicken or turkey broth

potatoes or rice. Add pine nuts and fresh sage leaves

1 tablespoon organic cornstarch

as garnish.

½ to 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon ground white pepper ½ teaspoon onion powder 2 tablespoons sour cream, optional ½ teaspoon minced fresh sage or parsley, optional

SPICED APPLE PIE SUNDAE WITH MACADAMIA NUTS Serves 4 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided 1 cup raw, unsalted macadamia nuts 4 apples, peeled, cored and diced (Fuji, Jazz or Honeycrisp) ¼ cup brandy ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom 1/8 teaspoon fresh ground nutmeg 1 whole star anise ¾ teaspoon crushed pink peppercorns 3 tablespoons light brown sugar, divided 1 quart vanilla ice cream 1 jar salted caramel sauce Melt 1 tablespoon butter in large saucepan. Add nuts and cook until light brown. Remove nuts from pan and cool. Add apples to same pan and sauté until light golden brown. Add brandy to pan and reduce until almost dry. Add 1 tablespoon butter and spices. Lower heat and cook until aromatic and apples are tender. Add 1 tablespoon brown sugar and cook until dissolved and apples have a nice caramel color. Remove from heat, slightly cool, and discard star anise. Chop nuts. Combine with remaining brown sugar. Set out serving dishes. Place some nut mixture in bottom of each dish, reserving some for garnish. Add ice cream. Spoon caramel sauce over ice cream and top with caramelized apples. Garnish with a sprinkle of nut mixture. Enjoy!

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve done all the silly stuff. Now itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just about health, happiness and living with purpose. The SheSez Podcast Available wherever you listen

More at SheSez.com Follow @she_sez

as seen in

In every issue, we share 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.

small batch big taste 15 CALIFORNIA WINEMAKERS TO PUT ON YOUR RADAR Written by Bonnie Graves

With an estimated 4 million acres damaged by the fires in the Napa Valley this past summer—and even before that, an estimated 400 million in losses due to COVID— the California wine industry needs support now more than ever.

Beekeeper Cellars to showcase the exceptional potential of old-vine zin grown in Sonoma. While some inexpensive zins can taste like IHOP blueberry syrup, Beekeeper makes age-worthy wines with structure and acidity. Notes of blackberry bush, currants and cedar complement zinfandel’s characteristic white pepper. beekeepercellars.com (250 cases made) Curran Tempranillo, D’Alfonso-Curran Wines (Santa Barbara County, 2018) –$42

Here we introduce you to a group of family farmers

Kris Curran is one of the finest winemakers in

and artisanal winemakers, most of whom use organically

California. This smoky, gamy tempranillo—Spain’s

grown grapes and sustainable vineyard practices.

great red grape—is layered with incredible textures

From a lushly fragrant Russian River viognier

and nuance. Aged 18 months in barrique, it offers

to a world-class coastal grenache, an iconic Napa

aromatics of cranberry, leather and jam, and it pairs

cabernet sauvignon and more, each of these bottles is

beautifully with grilled meats, charcuterie and, of

a handcrafted testament to entrepreneurship and the

course, spicy andouille paella.

spirit of the Golden State.

d-cwines.com (350 cases made)

A Tribute to Grace Grenache, Besson Vineyard

Dragonette Pinot Noir, Dragonette Cellars

(Santa Clara County, 2017) – $53

(Santa Rita Hills, 2018) –$50

At the foothills of the Santa Cruz mountains lies this

Manhattan Beach resident and winemaker Brandon

incredible plot of century-old grenache vines. Made

Sparks-Gillis has teamed with the Dragonette family

by Angela Osborne in honor of her late grandmother

to create some of the best pinot noirs coming out

Grace, this wine is a classic expression of California

of Santa Barbara County. This blend uses fruit from

grenache. Notes of cranberry, crunchy red apple skin

coveted vineyards across the Santa Rita Hills, where

and baking spices like cardamom predominate.

the maritime influence of the Pacific preserves the

gracewinecompany.com (120 cases made)

pinot’s bright acidity while allowing slow ripening. Beautiful notes of black cherry, damson plum skin and

Beauregard Chardonnay, Bald Mountain Vineyard

star anise. It should cost twice as much as it does.

(Ben Lomond Mountain, 2018) –$60

dragonettecellars.com (900 cases made)

Farmer-turned-winemaker Ryan Beauregard works this parcel of mountain-grown chardonnay planted

Ella’s Reserve Pinot Noir, Fathers & Daughters Cellars

on unique white sand called Zayante. Just a touch

(Anderson Valley, 2017) –$52

of French oak lets the fruit shine; this chardonnay

The pinot noir inside this bottle is wonderful, but so too

presents with aromas of honeysuckle, crisp Asian pear

are the people behind the label. Fathers & Daughters’

and oyster shells.

inaugural vintage was launched when granddaughter

beauregardvineyards.com (550 cases made)

Ella was born in 2012, and it continues to be a family affair, with three generations working the vineyard.

Beekeeper Zinfandel, Montecillo Vineyard (Sonoma

Aromatic notes of violets, tarragon and macerated

Valley, 2017) –$65

strawberries with great acidity and lift on the palate.

With partner Clay Mauritson, Ian Blackburn founded

fanddcellars.com (104 cases made)

Bien Nacido Syrah, Herman Story Wines (Santa Maria

Blueline Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Hourglass Wines

Valley, 2016) –$60

(Napa Valley, 2017) –$125

Planted in 1969 in the singular soils of the Santa

Hourglass Wines, which produces this noteworthy

Maria Valley in northern Santa Barbara County, Bien

red, suffered extensive losses in the Napa fires, but

Nacido is considered a crown jewel among wine lovers

you can still purchase their wine at stores. In a valley

and makers. From, the opportunity to work with syr-

crowded with overpriced “cult” cabs that are often

ah grown in Bien Nacido is a gift. The 2016 vintage,

fairly generic, this small-lot cabernet sauvignon

his fifth production of this wine, is big and brooding.

stands out for both its integrity and elegance.

It’s an intense style of syrah with stewed plums, black

Finished with a small amount of petit verdot and

peppercorn and bacon notes.

Malbec—the least known of the classic five Bordeaux

hermanstorywines.com (312 cases made)

varieties—this cabernet is exceptional. Lush cassis

and violet aromatics are tightly wound in a core of

Hayley Marie Viognier, Porter Creek Vineyard

fine-grained tannins.

(Russian River Valley, 2018) –$36

hourglasswines.com (900 cases made)

Once considered an exotic grape, viognier now has a devoted following among white-wine lovers. Thick

Endless Crush Rosé of Pinot Noir, Inman Family Wines

and unctuous, with notes of honeysuckle, jasmine

(Russian River Valley, 2019) –$38

and unripe mango, viognier is the perfect wine for

Made with grapes from the esteemed Olivet Grange

a lot of spicy Asian cuisines. The cool climate of the

estate, this rosé of pinot noir is aptly named. A

Russian River Valley helps to preserve the acidity in

seductive and highly perfumed wine, it is lower in

this version from Porter Creek. Try it with shrimp pad

alcohol and higher in mouthwatering acidity. With

Thai or yellow curries.

lovely notes of watermelon, guava and grapefruit

portercreekvineyards.com (528 cases made)

zest on the nose, this rosé pairs beautifully with charcuterie and summer salads.

Saddlerock Cabernet Sauvignon

inmanfamilywines.com (1,251 cases made)

(Malibu Family Wines, 2017) –$37

Many of the local vineyards were decimated in

the Woolsey Fire of 2018, so this 2017 cab from

the Rhône Valley has propagated a whole generation of

Saddlerock is a reminder of the region’s potential. It’s

amazing vineyards. This blend of mourvèdre, grenache,

a cabernet grown on soils, with soft, approachable

syrah and counoise is deep, dusty and rich with spice

tannins that make it ready to drink when young. For

and bramble aromatics. It’s one of the best red wines

under $40 a bottle, it’s an incredible deal.

made in the state, hands-down.

malibufamilywines.com (1,180 cases made)

tablascreek.com (4,090 cases made)

Esprit de Tablas, Tablas Creek Vineyard

Kick-on Ranch Riesling, Tatomer Wines

(Paso Robles, 2017) –$60

(Los Alamos, 2018) –$38

The story of the wine-importing Haas family and their

Winemaker Graham Tatomer worked for several

connection to Beaucastel in France’s Châteauneuf-du-

years at legendary Austrian producer Weingut Knoll,

Pape region is, in many ways, one of the origin stories

and his finesse with grape varieties like riesling and

of the California wine industry. The Haases founded

grüner veltliner is unique. If you expect all riesling to

Tablas Creek in Paso at a time when the region was

be syrupy-sweet, this bracingly dry, high-acid wine

still largely undiscovered; their nursery material from

from the breezy Kick-on Ranch vineyard will be a revelation. Gorgeous white flowers and a saline tang make this riesling endlessly refreshing. tatomerwines.com (150 cases made) Rosé of Mourvèdre, Tercero Wines (Santa Barbara, 2019) –$30

Make a point of visiting Larry Schaffer’s tasting room in Los Olivos, and you’ll be treated like royalty. I’ve always loved his rosé made from mourvèdre grapes, which is reminiscent of Bandol wines from the south coast of Provence, France. Mouthwatering notes of guava, watermelon and a hint of cinnamon bark make this my go-to poolside pink for the summer. tercerowines.com (120 cases made) Truchard Merlot, Truchard Vineyards (Carneros, 2017) –$35 One of the classic big-five grape varieties from Bordeaux, merlot has always thrived in Napa and Sonoma’s sunny climate. This delicious wine from Truchard hails from Carneros, one of the southernmost subregions in the valleys, and also one of the coolest. The temperate vineyard conditions preserve the acid in the merlot as it ripens, and an additional 25% of cabernet franc brings spice and herbaceousness. Notes of ripe purple plums, bitter dark cacao, spearmint leaf and star anise. truchardvineyards.com (617 cases made) ■

french deco A COUPLEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S AFFINITY FOR THE SOPHISTICATION AND CHARM OF PARIS INSPIRES THE RENOVATION AND ART DECO-INSPIRED DECOR OF A VIBRANT ENCINO HOME. Written by Dakota Kim Photographed by Erika Bierman

The focal point of the dramatic, rich-hued libraryâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and the inspiration for its decorâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;is an impressionist painting depicting two young women at a flower market.

“This house—everything you look

It’s hard to imagine the home as anything but this

at—it’s been touched, every single

brightly designed space replete with vintage lighting

surface,” Jim Hirsch says, gesturing

fixtures, rare tile and gilded mirrors. Rewind to a year ago, when Jim and his wife, Pam, first set eyes on it—a

from the hall that opens onto the

dated, 30-year-old, stone-effaced structure. Jim, a real

kitchen and dining room of his

estate agent with The Agency Sherman Oaks, had lived

stunning, light-filled Tudor-style home in Encino.

The kitchen features an island topped with a single 11-footlong slab 70 | of Taj Mahal Quartzite with a “leathered” finish and a backsplash made from a recycled glass and mirror mosaic.

in the Valley for 26 years and knew a good thing when he saw one. “It had great bones—it hadn’t been touched,” Jim

Black and white is present as a leitmotif throughout the home, including what Allison calls the “Grimm’s Fairy Tale-like” lotus wallpaper in this downstairs powder room.

says. “I loved the property, but the only thing we left was the stone exterior.” The Hirsches hired Valley-based designer Allison Knizek (allisonknizekdesign.com) to execute a complete overhaul. Allison crafted a plan called Paris Flat Reno, inspired by Pam’s affinity for Parisian apartments and a collection of French art and accessories inherited from her mother. “This project had Frenchy vibes oozing out of every nook and cranny,” Allison says, referring to the stone exterior, mansard roof, high cathedral windows, paneling and thoughtful millwork. “This house had some quirky layout challenges, but because of all the charm it exuded, I was careful not to renovate the character out of the space.” The pièce de résistance is the Paris Flat’s kitchen. “I think our house got designed from the kitchen outward,” Jim quips. The centerpiece is an 11-foot-long, leathered Taj Mahal Quartzite kitchen island with two barstools at the end, but the showstopper is a pale blue La Cornue stove, behind which glistens a recycled glass and mirror mosaic from Oceanside Glass Tile. One of the most impactful transformations to the house involved the thoughtful redesign of the kitchen ceiling. The window-facing side of the ceiling was raised from 7-1/2 feet to a lofty 12 feet, with a skylight. The chandelier above the island extends all the way to the lofted ceiling, extending the vertical scale for the room and drawing the eye up. The breakfast nook mixes obsession-worthy elements with big-box-store and e-commerce pieces. A petite West Elm white marble table perched on a brushed nickel pedestal is surrounded by velvet chairs from Wayfair and crowned by a Serena and Lily Capiz Honeycomb Chandelier. But the bow that wraps this jewel box of a room together is the fairy tale-like Cole and Sons thistle wallpaper. “I design with a bit of a sense of humor. I always like to interject something that’s just a little bit twisted classic,” the designer says.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The living room decor is a riff off a painting of Palm Canyon in Palm Springs,â&#x20AC;? Pam says, gesturing toward a painting dominated by golds and greens. Accordingly, the sofa is a sunbaked, subtle green upholstered in the stain-resistant, durable fabric Crypton.

“WHAT I LOVE ABOUT THIS HOME IS THAT EVERYTHING IS IN ITS RIGHT SPOT. ” That subtly edgy commentary runs through the house, especially visible in its tilework and wallpapers. Step across the threshold into the home and a Trees of Eden wallpaper panel by Martyn Lawrence Bullardgreets you, providing a counterplay with the black and white marble mosaic floor tile.

The couple with daughter Ashley. Their other daughter, Melanie, is away at college.

For Pam, who previously worked in luxury textiles, exploring and selecting unexpected materials was important. Textural landscapes vary, from Anaglypta, an English raised vinyl wallpaper in the dining room, to velvet chairs in the breakfast nook. Jim says that at the end of the day, one of the things that makes him happiest about their “forever home” is the sense of flow. “I can’t stand it when the floor plan doesn’t make sense to me—when you can tell where there were additions or renovations,” he says. “What I love about this home is that everything is in its right spot. You walk in and you’re in a center hallway instead of a massive great room. It just flows.” ■

Tylee Rogal with mom Stephanie

PhilanthroKids THE QUARANTINE INSPIRES SOME OF THE YOUNGEST MEMBERS OF OUR COMMUNITY TO GIVE BACK. Written by Heather David

For Tylee Rogal, a fifth grader from Encino, philanthropy morphed out of a hobby. In an effort to creatively pass

stand up than to donate the proceeds from my summer

gan tie-dyeing masks, hoodies and Converse high-tops.

business to Black Lives Matter Los Angeles,” says the

the news did a story on me three days after I opened my

self-assured 10-year-old. Kids have also given back with Fresh Lunches. When

shop and it just took off!” says Tylee, who sells from @

the local school lunch catering business slowed to a halt

TysTyeDyes.

last March, the company pivoted. Owner Winnie Tong

At the same time her small business was taking flight, Tylee began learning more about what happened to George

“It really upset me. So I thought what better way to

the time during the quarantine this past summer, she be“People started looking at my Instagram and then

Floyd and other racial injustices around the country.

began to feed people in need, just as she had done for first responders and Red Cross evacuees during the 2017

Skirball fire. Instead of doing it by herself, though, this time she recruited young people to deliver her delicious meals across the city, like 13-year-old Sophia Bakhtiari, who lives in Laurel Canyon. “Every week I deliver food to Children’s Hospital LA, the Veteran’s Administration, or the NOHO Home Alliance. I’ve met really amazing people at the drop-off locations,” shares Sophia. “It’s great when someone gives you just a smile. It’s so heartwarming,” says 17-year-old Mike Pierson who also delivers Fresh Lunches meals. The Studio City resident views philanthropic endeavors as just one step for his generation as they work to make our world a better place. “I would like us to listen to each other and use our common sense. Not to ever shut down opposing views before they have been considered.” Another uplifting kid-driven organization is the Soaring Samaritans Youth Movement, created seven years ago by sisters Taylor and Jordyn Jackson, 17 and 11, respectively, of Tarzana. “As avid soccer players, we really wanted to share the joy of soccer, says Taylor. “We discovered a company called One World Play,” Jordyn adds, “which donates indestructible soccer balls that don’t need a pump for 20 years.” Through donations as well as raising money from handmade jewelry, the Jackson sisters travel the globe, delivering the soccer balls to children in underserved communities. “There was one kid in Fiji who told us that he would sleep with the ball at night because he was so happy to

SistersTaylor and Jordan Jackson with some of their benefactors.

have it. We’ll never forget that,” remembers Jordyn. Soaring Samaritans had an instant reaction to the COVID-19 crisis, with a project called Masks for Medics, which uses donations to purchase N95 masks and other PPE for medical personnel in underserved areas of the city. “We also teach kids that they don’t need physical items to be able to give back. They can give their time. Anything they have at their fingertips can be used to make a difference,” comments Taylor. ■

COMING THIS FALL:

INTERACTIVE OPEN HOUSE EVENTS CALENDAR

Get Your Education Open House Events Here!

Ventura Blvd is hosting a comprehensive calendar of the finest Open House events for schools in our area with links to the best virtual and in person events. Plan your Fall using our easy to navigate guide.

Find it live mid-September at

VenturaBlvd.Goldenstate.Is/OpenHouses Want to include your events? Find out how by contacting Robin Sanders at 818-427-2050 or robin@goldenstate.is

PHILANTHROPIC VANGUARDS When you think of inspiration, there is nothing quite like people who go out of their way to help others in need. And this holiday season—with the pandemic ongoing—there are more people who need help than ever. In this special Philanthropic Vanguards profiles section, we introduce you to some stellar members of the Valley community—people and organizations working hard to better the lives of others, lifting us all up in the process.

GREG AND JODI PERLMAN THE CHANGE REACTION

SRM REAL ESTATE GROUP JUVENILE DIABETES RESEARCH FOUNDATION

CLAIRE MARKS PROVIDENCE TARZANA FOUNDATION, PROVIDENCE CEDARS-SINAI TARZANA MEDICAL CENTER

ED ROMANO & MURPHY ROMANO PROVIDENCE SAINT JOSEPH FOUNDATION

WRITTEN BY LAURA L. WATTS

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

PHILANTHROPIC VANGUARDS

GREG AND JODI PERLMAN Featured Charity:

THE CHANGE REACTION 818-808-0600 | changereaction.org

os Angeles residents Greg and Jodi Perlman are active in their community and have founded various nonprofit organizations to help small business owners and low-income individuals and families. Greg is the founder and CEO of affordable housing firm GHC Housing Partners based in Sherman Oaks, and Jodi owns six Southern California lifestyle boutiques named Soto & Soto Lifestyle. They are parents to three adult children. The couple started their first foundation, The All Ways Up Foundation, in 2009 and formed the featured charity, The Change Reaction, in 2019. TELL US ABOUT YOUR FEATURED CHARITABLE ORGANIZATION. “The Change Reaction is not a traditional charity; it is a movement that restores faith in humanity one grant at a time. We provide emergency grants to individuals who are facing financial crises. We don’t seek donations; instead we look for people with means all over the country who want to move money back into the hardworking people who make up the fabric of their community. In the U.S., 40% of adults do not have enough money saved to cover even the average cost of car repair. The Change Reaction is like a financial emergency room. We also invest in opportunities that help people go further in life.” WHAT ORGANIZATIONS DOES THE CHANGE REACTION SUPPORT? “The Change Reaction has partnered with about 60+ organizations and hospitals that help all sorts of people in need. We work directly with these organizations and their social workers, whom we call our Change Agents. The Change Agents have devoted their lives to helping those most vulnerable in their communities, and we give them the ability to make direct grants to their constituents

facing emergencies with things such as rental arrears, car repairs, DWP bills and assistance with education, licensing and other grants. With these partnerships, we have empowered our Change Agents to bring us recipients so we can find ways to help.”

resource to them. Supporting local nonprofits is the best way to be involved directly with your community, and it is one of the things that inspired us to start The Change Reaction so we can move our money back into our community here in Los Angeles.”

WHICH IMPORTANT ISSUE HAS YOUR ATTENTION NOW? “We are seeing firsthand the effect this pandemic is having on rent burdens. We have found that there are some good rules in place, such as an eviction moratorium as long as tenants pay 25% of the rent. However, once that expires, there will be some significant back rents outstanding that need to be paid. We receive numerous requests for rental arrears and are working with individuals to find ways we can be of assistance if they are faced with a financial emergency.”

WHAT ARE YOU ESPECIALLY GRATEFUL FOR TODAY? “We are grateful every single day for our health and the health of our family; without that everything else is meaningless. We are grateful to have been blessed with the financial wherewithal to help thousands of families facing financial crises and support so many social workers and case managers who are doing such great work.”

WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU MADE DUE TO COVID-19? “When COVID-19 hit, we saw some of our favorite mom-and-pop shops and boutiques being forced to close down. We quickly acted and established small business relief funds to provide interest-free loans to small businesses experiencing tragedies caused by the pandemic. Since May we have made over 100 loans to local small businesses.” WHY SHOULD WE SUPPORT LOCAL NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS? “What is great about local nonprofits is that they are on the ground creating personal relationships with people in their communities. They see what the needs are firsthand and do everything they can to help. Social workers and case managers working in local nonprofits dedicate their lives to helping people in their communities. They jump through hoops and cut through red tape to help people who need it most, and we are so happy to be a

HOW DO YOU EMPOWER YOUR TEAM TO GIVE BACK? “We have given our Change Reaction team the ability to directly change people’s lives every single day. With our platform of giving, we have empowered our team to onboard several organizations at a time and work directly with our Change Agents to find the most vulnerable people in our community who need our help. The Change Reaction team members are the ones who get to watch the entire chain of reactions take place and see the maximum joy from both the donors and the recipients, as well as the maximum empowerment from the Change Agents. We like to say that The Change Reaction is ‘selling joy.’ With that in mind, every day at the office is a great day.” WHAT IS THE RESPONSE TO THIS WORK? “Almost every day we receive thank-you notes from recipients and social workers. Many of them tell us this feels too good to be true and that they can’t wait to pay it forward. Our favorites are the ones who say, ‘You have restored my faith in humanity.’ There’s nothing more fulfilling than that.”

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

PHILANTHROPIC VANGUARDS

SRM REAL ESTATE GROUP Featured Charity:

JUVENILE DIABETES RESEARCH FOUNDATION 213-233-9901 | jdrf.org

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. 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. He has served on the board of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation’s Los Angeles chapter and is an active participant 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.”

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 stories 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.” HOW DOES YOUR SOCIAL IMPACT MODEL WORK? “I decided to emphasize purpose over profits. I moved away from the traditional, one-sizefits-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 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. If a 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 BENEFITED? “Recent beneficiaries include North Hollywood Interfaith Food Pantry, Thrive in Joy Nick Fagnano Foundation, Elizabeth House, Alzheimer’s Los Angeles, Best Friends Animal Society, The Michael J. Fox Foundation, Union Rescue Mission and Food on Foot.”

WHAT’S COMING UP NEXT FOR SRM REAL ESTATE GROUP? “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 community-building initiatives will be part of our core strategy. Additionally, we are collaborating with a couple of partners to build a curriculum around values-based leadership and the virtue of service.” WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE A BUSINESS OWNER ABOUT INTEGRATING PHILANTHROPY INTO THEIR COMPANY? “Make sure service is one of your company’s core values and lived every day in your team’s culture. Then identify where to direct your resources so you will have the greatest impact 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 in my community and in the world?” ANY FINAL THOUGHTS? “I believe tremendous opportunity exists at the intersection of business and philanthropy for all businesses. Simply put, there is a way for every business to become a force for good. Owners just need to discover what that looks like for them. At SRM Real Estate Group, we are always looking for local businesses to collaborate with and support, so reach out to us to discuss how we can scale our impact together.”

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

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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

PHILANTHROPIC VANGUARDS

CLAIRE MARKS

Featured Charity:

PROVIDENCE TARZANA FOUNDATION PROVIDENCE CEDARS-SINAI TARZANA MEDICAL CENTER 818-757-4344 | tarzanafoundation.org

HOW DID YOU BECOME ASSOCIATED WITH PROVIDENCE TARZANA FOUNDATION? “In 2016, Dale Surowitz, then the chief executive at Providence Tarzana Medical Center, gave a presentation to the community about the expansion of the hospital—a brand new, five-story patient tower, larger emergency

department and more state-of-the-art operating rooms. I had to be involved in such a transformational project. I was invited to join the board the following year.” WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT WORK THE MEDICAL CENTER DOES? “Providence Cedars-Sinai Tarzana Medical Center saves lives. They are here to provide excellent, compassionate health care for our entire Valley community.” WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO MAKE A GIFT? “My husband and I desired to see the vision of a world-class hospital in our community come to fruition to benefit our generation and those generations that follow.” WHAT MOTIVATES YOU TO STAY INVOLVED IN NONPROFIT WORK? “I am involved in nonprofit work because I believe in giving back. I stay involved because I believe in the mission of the projects in which

I engage and, most of all, because of the caring, dedicated and inspiring people whom I have met along the way.” WHAT DO YOU HOPE THE MEDICAL CENTER WILL ACHIEVE IN THE FUTURE? “It will be the premier high-tech hospital of the Valley, providing exceptional care for generations to come. Valleyites won’t have to go over the hill any longer for quality care.” WHICH ACHIEVEMENTS THRILL YOU MOST? “I have been fortunate to have been honored several times for my nonprofit service, but what I’m most proud of is that by giving back to my community, I have helped improve the lives of others. Recently, having attended the final beam-hanging for Providence CedarsSinai Tarzana Medical Center’s new patient tower and seeing the last beam complete the framework for such a transformational project has filled me with pride. I can’t wait to see the tower when it’s finished!”

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

PHOTOGRAPHED BY KEVIN WARN

WHAT IS YOUR CONNECTION TO THIS COMMUNITY? “I have lived in the San Fernando Valley for 58 years, with 30 of those years being in wonderful Tarzana. I attended Ulysses S. Grant High School and then UCLA, where I obtained a B.A. and elementary and secondary teaching credentials. I taught middle school at Yavneh Academy before getting my real estate license. I have been a real estate agent for the past 42 years.” DO YOU HAVE CHILDREN? “Yes! Tamara and Jeff were both born at Tarzana Hospital, and the care was top-notch!”

PHILANTHROPIC VANGUARDS

PHOTOGRAPHED BY KEVIN WARN

ED ROMANO & MURPHY ROMANO WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO GIVE YOUR SUPPORT TO THE PROVIDENCE SAINT JOSEPH FOUNDATION? Murphy: “I am a breast cancer survivor and a stomach cancer survivor, and the care I received was quite special. Our daughter, who sadly died last year, was hospitalized for months. We had never seen anything like how she was cared for—from the nurses to the doctors. The nursing care led me to speak at National Nursing Celebration Day and gave me the opportunity to share my appreciation with all the nurses. I’ve spoken at the cancer survivor days and the galas—I had never spoken in my life in front of a crowd of more than three. I now feel very comfortable, and it’s my way of giving back for all they’ve done for our family.”

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Featured Charity:

PROVIDENCE SAINT JOSEPH FOUNDATION 818-847-4674 | supportsaintjoseph.org

Ed: “I was working as the CFO at Warner Bros., and I got a call from Dick Baker, who at the time was the chair of the Saint Joseph Foundation and the CFO at Universal. He called me and asked me if I wanted to serve on the finance committee for the Saint Joe’s Foundation. I felt that since we were living in Toluca Lake, Saint Joseph Medical Center was the hospital for my family and me, and it was the hospital for the employees of Warner Bros. as well. I thought it was a good way of getting involved with a great charitable organization, so I said OK. It’s been about 18 or 20 years now.” WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT LIVING IN THE VALLEY? Murphy: “We’ve been in Toluca Lake for just over 30 years now, and we love it. With both of us originally being from New York, it feels

like an East Coast neighborhood to us— people walk, you know your neighbors, seasons change … on the trees, at least! We love it.” WHAT ARE YOU ESPECIALLY GRATEFUL FOR TODAY? Murphy: “There are some positives to COVID19. We have not enjoyed our home this much since we moved in. Friends would always say to us, ‘Wow, you have such a great home; don’t you ever sit still?’ And now we do. That’s the nice thing about this—not rushing somewhere all the time. I want this to end {COVID-19), but we’re still finding some pleasure in it.” Ed: “We started cooking again. We sit down for dinner every night with candles; the presentation is great. Murphy does a great job.”

ACTIVE

10433 Kling Street, Toluca Lake | $3,395,000

ACTIVE

3768 Berry Drive, Studio City | $3,799,000

149 N. Valley Street, Toluca Lake | $3,450,000

4355 Kraft Avenue, Studio City | $3,695,000

4736 Sancola Avenue, Toluca Lake | $3,899,000

CRAIG STRONG DRE # 01450987 VP, Luxury Home Sales Top 1 % Nationwide

ACTIVE

3100 Fryman Road, Studio City | $3,395,000

#1 Individual Agent Companywide 1.2+ Billion Total Sales Volume

ACTIVE

10225 Valley Spring Lane, Toluca Lake | $2,995,000 Compass does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size, or other information concerning the condition or features of the property provided by the seller or obtained from public records and other sources and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information. CalBRE 01450987

R E A L E S TAT E

Spectacular Mid-Century Modern Single Level Residence! Highlighted by its double gated circular drive, voluminous ceilings, grand living spaces, gleaming wood and era perfect terrazzo floors! Featuring a truly grand entertainers living/media room anchored by its central fireplace, full service wet bar and walls of glass overlooking the spectacular rear yard with pond styled sparkling pool, outdoor kitchen and expansive patio retreat. Offering complete privacy and serenity just a short stroll to boulevard shops and restaurants! 4520 Gloria Avenue, Encino | $2,389,000 Oren David Mordkowitz | www.OrenEstates.com | 818.933.5866

TOLUCA LAKE

4736 S. Sancola Ave $3,899,000

Craig Strong 818.930.4050 DRE 01450987 Timeless Toluca Lake Manor at the top of a fantastic cul-de-sac.

ENCINO

4717 Encino Ave $5,249,000

STUDIO CITY

11920 Briarvale Ln $3,795,000

Eric Lieberman 310.849.4900 DRE 01008206

Michaela Cadiz 310.795.6715 DRE 01803838

STUDIO CITY

4546 Carpenter Ave $1,995,000 FILLMORE

961 Mountain View St $2,195,000

BURBANK

Joan Duffy 310.995.0900 DRE 00525687

444 S California St $1,895,000

Craig Strong Kristin Neithercut 818.930.4050 DRE 01450987 | 02003278

15506 Huston St $1,349,000

TOLUCA LAKE

11101 Blix St $1,659,000

Michael Bergin 310.600.0715 DRE 01845572

Craig Strong 818.930.4050 DRE 01450987

Incredible Studio City home located in the soughtafter Colfax Charter Elementary District.

Alan Taylor 818.650.1603 DRE 01369255

14702 Hesby St $1,095,000

ENCINO

SHERMAN OAKS

Gloria Carmona 323.350.8686 DRE 01832843

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.

MICHAEL BERGIN |

LUXURY ESTATES DIRECTOR

FOR SALE

IN ESCROW

6002 Allott Avenue, Valley Glen $1,998,000 5 Beds 6 Baths 7,613± Sqft

IN ESCROW

8524 Appian Way, West Hollywood $1,599,000 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,725± Sqft Hollywood Hills Canyon Road

JUST SOLD

16184 Meadowcrest Road, Sherman Oaks 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,157± Sqft Royal Woods Sold Over Asking for $1,645,000

JUST SOLD

4182 Camellia Avenue, Studio City $1,392,500 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,778± Sqft Colfax Meadows

4546 Carpenter Avenue, Studio City $1,995,000 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,771± Sqft Colfax Charter District

IN ESCROW

12112 Laurel Terrace Drive, Studio City $1,899,000 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,700± Sqft Carpenter Ave School District Pool

JUST SOLD

13352 Valleyheart Drive, Sherman Oaks $1,670,000 3 Beds 5 Baths 2,416± Sqft 7,200± Sqft Lot

JUST SOLD

4329 Lemp Avenue, Studio City $2,368,000 5 Beds 5 Baths 3,650± Sqft Colfax Meadows Pool

JUST SOLD

4256 Stern Avenue, Sherman Oaks $2,775,000 5 Beds 6 Baths 4,719± Sqft 6,997± Sqft Lot

JUST SOLD

4149 Kraft Avenue, Studio City 3 Beds 2 Baths 2,097± Sqft Colfax Meadows Sold Over Asking for $1,613,000

JUST SOLD

4042 Denny Avenue, Studio City $1,810,000 3 Beds 3.5 Baths Yard Cul De Sac New Construction

Michael Bergin Luxury Estates Director 310.600.0715 BerginHomes@gmail.com DRE 01845572

Your #1 Real Estate Expert 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.

ng Co

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MATTEPSTEIN.COM SOMATT@AOL.COM 818-681-2000

Matt Epstein #1 #2 #5

Agent San Fernando Valley Agent Los Angeles Agent Nationwide for

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

Top one-half of 1 percent of more than 1,250,000 REALTORS® nationwide

Follow me on Facebook: MattEpsteinRealty Follow me on Twitter: @SoMattEpstein Follow me on Instagram: @MattEpsteinRealEstate

CalBRE# 01121162

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

Dreaming about getting away from it all, and yet it’s difficult during these unprecedented times. Just an hour away in Oxnard, Ventura and Santa Barbara the dream of long luxurious days by the ocean, kayaking through a harbor, bicycling near the beach and watching sea lions, dolphins and pelicans sounds pretty good - doesn’t it? I’ve been assisting many of our clients who are now buying weekend/ vacation homes in Ventura and Santa Barbara County. Call me if you’re interested, and I’ll show you how that feeling of vacation can be yours more than just once a year! Jane Kaplan Epstein Dre#01922991

#KeepingItRealEstate

3910 Sumac Dr – SO- $1,750,000 3Br+4 Ba in 3,200 SqFt on a 9,182 SqFt LotBeautiful contemporary home in Sherman Oaks. The home features very high vaulted ceilings, and ceiling to floor glass doors, a master suite with a balcony, and much more. Lots of storage space and closets throughout the house. Don’t miss this unique property which affords you the feeling of being away from it all yet only minutes away.

3908 Ethel Ave. – SC- $4,495,000 6Br+7Ba in 5,548 SqFt on a 9,784 SqFt Lot- Longridge Estates: Elegant, Europeaninspired villa. The home features 5,500 sq ft approx. with 6 bd and 7 ba with an open floor plan, lots of natural light, chef’s kitchen, spacious master suite, and much more. The backyard has a nice sized patio area and a large grass yard.

12985 Galewood St. – SC - $3,250,0004Br+2.5Ba in 3,916 SqFt on a 22,287 SqFt Lot- Fabulous gated farmhouse in the Longridge Estates. This home offers an open floor with two bedrooms downstairs. In addition to the main house, there is a recording studio/ guest house, pool, spa, and putting green.

4510 Radford Ave– SC- $2,900,000 5Br+5.5Ba in 5,089 SqFt on a 8,999 SqFt Lot – A stunning modern estate located in Studio City. This unique home offers designer touches throughout, with the perfect entertaining space, which includes a beautiful pool. The second level also features a loft/workspace. The house is equipped with the Creston Smart house system with 8 cameras

1554 Scenic Dr. - PAS- $2,500,000 4Br+3.5 Ba in 2,791 SqFt on a 22,833 SqFt Lot- This stunning one-story home located in the prestigious Linda Vista neighborhood in Pasadena. It’s been extensively remodeled and it features a large master suite that opens up to a balcone and a large walk-in closet. The incredible huge backyard has room for a pool and a large grassy area beyond which is a field of trees and land which seems to go on and on.

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.

INCREDIBLE STUDIO CITY DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY 37,500 SF LOT with 270Â° Views | 8,000 SF COMPOUND

$2,495,000 www.3779Berry.com

3779 Berry Dr. Studio City Set in the hills of Studio City, this is the last great development opportunity of its kind. This incredible parcel is complete with architectural plans and Ready to Issue permits for a magnificent and private 8,000 sq. ft compound. Designed by an internationally renowned design team, this home offers stunning 270-degree views from both the main residence and guest house. Designed to the highest standards and incorporating the finest materials and craftsmanship, this home will be a Studio City masterpiece.

818.481.1602 znagy@kw.com

Square footage is estimated based on plans. The buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of plans and permits.

CalBRE# 01832306

ACTIVE LISTING

5173 C OL L E T T AVENUE ENCINO | $ 3, 290,0 0 0

3606 WOODCLIFF ROAD SHERM A N OA KS | $1,899,0 0 0

5 BEDS | 5.5 B AT HS | 4,86 4 SQ . F T. | 10,052 SQ . F T. L OT

3 BEDS | 3 BATHS | 2,680 SQ. F T. | 10,029 SQ. F T. LOT

JUST SOLD

4511 HAY VENHURS T ENCINO | $ 6, 490,0 0 0

15470 VIS TA HAVEN PL ACE SHERM A N OA KS | $ 2,399,0 0 0

7 BEDS | 7.5 B AT HS | 8,550 SQ . F T. | 18,149 SQ . F T. L OT

5 BEDS | 4 B AT HS | 2,877 SQ . F T. | 3 4, 476 SQ . F T. L OT

JUST SOLD

14817 OT SEGO S TREE T SHERM A N OA KS | $ 2, 20 0,0 0 0

15193 ENCANTO DRIVE SHERM A N OA KS | $1,580,0 0 0

5 BEDS | 4.5 B AT HS | 4,8 40 SQ . F T. | 6,750 SQ . F T. L OT

3 BEDS | 3 BATHS | 2,139 SQ. F T. | 5,192 SQ. F T. LOT

GEORGE OUZOUNIAN

GEORGE.OZ@THE AGENCYRE.COM 818.900.4259 LIC. #01948763

THE AGENCYRE.COM

An international associate of Savills

$2,000,000,000+

CLOSED TRANSACTIONS Lifetime Sales Volume

5,500+ CLOSED SALES Lifetime Estimated Sales Transactions

INNUMERABLE

SATISFIED CLIENTS

Andrew was the #8 Agent Nationwide for BHHSCP in 2019 Now with 50+ Sales During Covid this year so far, he’s Ready to Help You SOLD

5153 Amestoy Ave l ENC

4BD l 5.5BA l Apx. 4,985 SqFt Apx. .76 Ac Lot with Pool/Spa/Tennis Crt

SOLD

357 N Bonhill Rd l Brentwood

16231 Meadowridge l ENC

4BD l 4.5BA l Apx. 4,251 SqFt Architectural l Stunning Views

6BD l 4.75BA l Apx. 4,615 SqFt Apx. 1/2 Ac Lot with Pool/Spa/Guest Hse

SOLD: $3,400,000

SOLD: $3,225,000

SOLD

FOR SALE

SOLD

YOUR HOME HERE

3816 Longridge Ave l SO

SOLD: $3,560,000

ANDREW IS READY TO HELP YOU GET YOUR HOME SOLD TODAY

5BD l 4.5BA l Apx. 4,333 SqFt Apx 15,000 SqFt Lot Ken Ungar Traditional with Pool/Spa

OFFERED AT: $4,750,000

4700 Libbit l ENC

6BD l 4.5BA l Apx. 4,675 SqFt 1+acre Lot with Pool/Spa

SOLD: $3,535,000

ANDREW MANNING l REALTOR® BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES CA PROPERTIES 14141 VENTURA BLVD., SHERMAN OAKS CA 91423 818 380 2147 PH I 818 386 9007 FX andrew@andrewmanning.com DRE LIC #: 00941825 © 2020 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties (BHHSCP) is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC. BHHS and the BHHS symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. 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.

4850 ANDA SOL AVENUE ENCINO | $ 5, 499,0 0 0 OR 19,999/MO

839 N. OGDEN DRIVE MEL ROSE | $ 3,850,0 0 0

5 BEDS | 5.5 B AT HS | 5,80 0 SQ . F T. | 14, 4 39 SQ . F T. L OT

5 BEDS | 5.5 BATHS | 4,860 SQ. F T. | 6,500 SQ. F T. LOT

4238 SHADYGL ADE AVENUE S T UDIO CIT Y | $ 2,825,0 0 0

3269 NE W YORK DRIVE PA SA DEN A | $1,999,90 0 | SOL D

5 BEDS | 5.5 B AT HS | 3,90 0 SQ . F T. | 6,50 0 SQ . F T. L OT IN E SCROW

6 BEDS | 5 BATHS | 4,078 SQ. F T. | 29,269 SQ. F T. LOT

DANIELLE PERE T Z

DANIELLE.PERE T Z@THE AGENCYRE.COM 818.644.1477 LIC. #01897529

THE AGENCYRE.COM

An international associate of Savills

CAROL Nobody does it better...

sold

15712 Sutton St., Encino $4,195,000 Brand New â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Royal Oaks Adjacent

new listing

15620 Woodvale Rd., Encino $2,499,000 Royal Oaks

sold

4908 Edgerton Ave., Encino $3,300,000 Encino Woods

in escrow

20335 Howard Ct., Woodland Hills $2,499,000 Magnificent Woodland Hills Estate

OLFE sold

17552 Margate St., Encino $2,799,000 Amestoy Estates

sold

16612 Oldham Pl., Encino $1,800,000 Encino Hills

sold

17201 Weddington St., Encino $1,600,000 Amestoy Estates

sold

17977 Medley Dr., Encino $1,540,000 Lake Encino

12334 Longacre Ave., Granada Hills $1,350,000 Cagney Ranch Estates

TOP 250 INDIVIDUAL AGENTS IN THE NATION

sold

4442 Estrondo Dr., Encino $1,675,000 Encino Hills

sold

16657 Oldham St., Encino $1,605,000 Encino Hills

18451 Jonah Ct., Tarzana $1,029,000 Tarzana Villa on Gated Street

sold

19212 Rosita St., Tarzana $2,699,000 Tarzana Gated Estate

#160

818.285.3688

www.CarolWolfe.com

sold

25921 Voltaire Pl., Stevenson Ranch $1,000,000 Stevenson Ranch

With over 30+ years of combined Real Estate experience, and over $1.5 billion in lifetime sales, they have established themselves as leaders in the industry.

SOLD IN ONE WEEK

ACTIVE

DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY

4938 Calvin Avenue, Tarzana 91356

16324 Meadowridge Rd, Encino 91436

ARCHITECTURAL MID-CENTURY MASTERPIECE Offered at $1,685,000

Approved Plans for 6500 Sq Ft Home included Offered at $2,299,000

SOLD PROPERTIES Caribeth Drive, Encino $6,500,000

Verano Drive, Bel Air $8,500,000

Skyline Drive, Hollywood Hills $2,100,000

We understand that in today’s market, clients need the expertise of top real estate professionals. We’re here to help you get the highest price in the shortest period of time for your home. Call us to find out what your home is worth. NICK TATONE & SAMARA SAFFIAN

TATONE TAT O N E G R O U P

818.929.6326

TatoneGroupRE.com Fine Estates®

DRE#01314700 DRE#01036043

14582 Valley Vista

SHERMAN OAKS, CA 91403

BEDS

7.5

B AT H S

8,000

SQFT LIVING

DENNIS CHERNOV CHERNOVTEAM.COM 818.432.1524 DRE# 01850113

ACTIVE

17,225

SQFT LOT

ADI LIVYATAN A D I L I V YATA N . CO M 818.919.4060 DRE# 01892750

ACTIVE

3923 CARPENTER CT | STUDIO CITY

ACTIVE

3607 BELLFIELD WY | STUDIO CITY

ACTIVE

16734 OTSEGO ST | ENCINO

UNDER CONTRACT

1 5 6 0 1 M E A DOWG AT E R D | E N C I N O

SOLD OVER ASKING

4242 BAKMAN AVE | STUDIO CITY

OVER

$287 MILLION

SOLD IN 2019

3820 KNOBHILL DR | SHERMAN OAKS

UNDER CONTRACT

5127 WILLOWCREST ST | TOLUCA WOODS

SOLD OVER ASKING

11821 LAUREL HILLS RD | STUDIO CITY

ACTIVE

12942 BLOOMFIELD ST | STUDIO CITY

ACTIVE

14947 GREENLEAF ST | SHERMAN OAKS

SOLD OVER ASKING

4116 BELLINGHAM AVE | STUDIO CITY

SOLD OVER ASKING

13001 DICKENS ST | STUDIO CITY

ACTIVE

4074 SUNSWEPT DR | STUDIO CITY

UNDER CONTRACT

11253 PEACH GROVE #104 | N HOLLYWOOD

SOLD OVER ASKING

11424 DONA DOLORES PL | STUDIO CITY

SOLD OVER ASKING

4431 FIRMAMENT AVE | ENCINO

818.432.1524 INFO@CHERNOVTEAM.COM WWW.CHERNOVTEAM.COM DRE #01850113

#1 TEAM IN THE VALLEY | #6 IN LOS ANGELES | #16 IN CALIFORNIA

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.

Oren David Mordkowitz ESTATES DIRECTOR | REALTOR Â®

818-933-5866

15153HartsookSt.com

CalDRE License #01246402

oren@orenestates.com

3718HayvenhurstAve.com

14290DickensSt.com

SOLD

TheWResidences6A.com

SOLD

SOLD

Curious what your home is worth? Contact Oren for a complimentary home analysis!

OrenEstates.com

h 4430 Haskell Avenue Encino • 8 Bedrooms • 10 Bathrooms • Pool • Cabana • Tennis Court • 7,500 Sq. Ft. Home • 36,000 Sq. Ft. flat parcel

www.4430Haskell.com

∂

FOR SALE

13732 La Maida Street, Sherman Oaks | $2,195,000

4268 Hazeltine Avenue, Sherman Oaks | $1,425,000

4033 Benedict Canyon Dr., Sherman Oaks | $1,325,000

JUST SOLD

14916 Round Valley Dr., Sherman Oaks | $2,895,000

14835 Jadestone Drive, Sherman Oaks | $1,700,000

14686 Valley Vista Blvd., Sherman Oaks | $1,599,000

BARRY DANTAGNAN 818.426.8677

barrydantagnan@gmail.com © 2020 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

• Mortgage discounts with Relationship Pricing1 • Dedicated support every step of the way • Jumbo 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

We’ve got a mortgage to fit 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. 1

A Citibank deposit account and automated monthly transfers of the mortgage payment from a Citibank personal deposit account using automated drafting will be required to receive Citibank mortgage relationship pricing. Ask a mortgage representative for details on eligible balances and the qualifying closing cost credit or rate discount. Availability of the Citibank mortgage relationship pricing for Citibank account holders is subject to change without notice.

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. ©2020 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.

LAST WORD

Next to Normal EIGHT MONTHS INTO QUARANTINE, A MOTHER HAS SOME THINGS TO GET OFF HER CHEST. Written by Emily Tecklenburg | Illustrated by Nikki Smith

My pandemic brain is wilting. I know this because when I recently grabbed my daughter’s

longing to do it. What I wouldn’t give to find crumpled-up gym

to cry. The sight alone of the avocado-printed bag summoned

clothes in the bottom of a backpack, pausing to ponder when

sudden fat tears of sadness.

they were last washed. I guess I’m also just a sad lady, dream-

ass? Can’t I remember how much I despised washing those little containers and becoming angry at the wasted food? Who

ing of laundry—even though the one thing a pandemic can’t kill are piles of laundry. These past eight months have felt endless in their days, yet

doesn’t want to eat a bagel? My life is complete when I get to

it seems only a moment ago when I sat in the parking lot on

eat a bagel!

that last fateful Friday of school. Anxious energy filled the air.

Who am I if I can’t complain about packing lunches? I’m

The fear of the unknown pulsed through our veins. The children

just a sad lady, dreaming about washing tiny Tupperware while

laughed nervously as they swung their heavy backpacks into the

eating leftover everything bagels. I realize how pathetic it is

back of my Jeep. We didn’t know. We still don’t know.

that I cried over a lunch bag, but I still cry every time I watch the movie Rudy and he finally gets his acceptance letter to Notre

We try to do our part while mourning what we left behind and the pain this pandemic has caused. While my pandemic

Dame. So I barely stand a chance when confronted with relics of

brain is wilting and the Minecraft consumption is multiplying,

a pre-pandemic time.

each day I hold on tight to the people and the things and the

A hundred things every day remind me of a life that feels far

laundry that make me feel … normal.

away. These things press upon me, practically suffocating me

But let it be known that when we finally get to send our

in their simplicity. A basket full of cleats the children outgrew

children back to school, I reserve the right to complain about

before a foot stepped in them. Baseball bags sitting around

packing lunches. ■

collecting not memories but dust. A pile of school gym clothes,

I mean, laundry makes me cry, but usually not because I’m

school lunch bag to pack a few things for the beach, I began

Wait. Don’t I hate packing lunches? Wasn’t it a pain in the

106

laundered months ago, sitting atop a dresser.

DURING THIS NEW NORMAL,

The Spitz | Cameron Group IS BUSIER THAN EVER. C

EM X Y PO R A

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4107 Stansbury Dr, Sherman Oaks

3727 Winford Dr, Tarzana

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4212 Costello Ave, Sherman Oaks

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FranChavez.com

DRE#924610 Realtor®

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3949 Vista Linda Dr, Encino

Call to find out how our unique marketing strategy helped us put 45 homes into escrow in the last 7 months! 818-817-4284

3674 Dixie Canyon Ave, Sherman Oaks $2,795,000 SO

17657 Belinda St, Encino $1,799,000 SO

818-517-1411

© 2020 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties (BHHSCP) is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC. BHHS and the BHHS symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. 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

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