Author: Rodeo Realty Media Team

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Rodeo News: Zane Grey Estate featured in LA Times and Curbed LA

Beverly Hills agent, Wayne Saks, lists the famed Zane Grey Estate in Altadena. Set against the beautiful San Gabriel Mountains sits this beautiful estate.

The property is on the National Register of Historic Places as it is the former home of the famed Western novelist, Zane Grey. The property not only housed Zane, but had the architectural brilliance of Chicago’s Myron Hunt and Elmer Grey (also designed the Rose Bowl, Huntington Library, and other California landmarks).

Curbed LA highlighted that the property remained in the Grey family for decades, last trading hands in 1970. In recent years, it’s been the site of an underground farmers market as well as a popular Airbnb rental, but now it is ready to start a new chapter.

The Los Angeles Times highlighted that Zane Grey is considered one of the greatest writers in the Western Genre. Grey penned more than 90 books over the course of his career. Between 1911 and 1996, 112 films were adapted from his works.

See more photos of the listing: HERE!

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Home Tips: Design Trends for 2020

Are those liver spots on the all-white kitchen? After a decade of dominance, this sterile staple of the modern home has begun to show its age. In its place, look for natural materials (woods and metals for your cabinets and islands) and bold colors (reds and yellows for making your cabinets pop) to return, bringing with them splashes of warmth and personality. In addition to this move away from the monochromatic scullery, here are six other home design trends you should expect to come knocking in 2020 and beyond.

 

Authenticity

Swap out the faux paintings and put away the plastic plants. As designers move away from mass-marketed slickness, expect a new emphasis on authenticity. It’s probably no coincidence that Japanese influences in general are also trending, since the Wabi-sabi aesthetic accepts and even embraces imperfection. So add some objects to your surroundings that reflect hand-crafted artisanship, no matter how modest or austere. In other words, make it real.

Earth Tones

The changing palette of the kitchen – more contrast, more color – will naturally spill across all rooms in the home. Look for earth tones such as chocolate, wine, olive and yellow ochre to mark a shift away from sedated greys and other colder, muted tones. Aloof is out. Cozy is in.

Vintage

Have you been waiting for the chance to break out those Victoria lace-up granny boots and hang them up somewhere? Or that French market straw bag? Or have you been toying with adding that French chic headboard you spotted to the bedroom? Good news: what’s old is new again – with vintage accents and items from the 1800s and early 1900s proving especially popular.

patterns

The use of prints, patterns and mixed designs shows no signs of fading. And wallpaper? Bring on the wallpaper (even on the ceiling). Other trends: geometry with metallic textures and colors, and bolder patterns overall. But remember to be judicious: too many mismatched patterns and instead of a wall that makes a bold statement, you’ll end up with an eyesore. And it’s always good to start with small touches: an accent pillow, some artwork or a geometric area rug.

Metals

From tin panels for kitchen backsplash to hammered copper for countertops, metal and metallic accents are being polished off for 2020. Gold and brass, which were omnipresent in the 1980s, are staging a comeback as well. Always popular: chrome and nickel for kitchen and bathroom plumbing fixtures. But, as with bold patterns, if you decide to mix your metals, don’t get excessive. Two or three metals to a room, maximum, is a good rule to design by.

Black

From paint and furniture to sinks and cabinets, home design is headed back in black. In fact, the dominance of black is expected to be one of 2020’s top trends. And even if you don’t want to go all-in on all-black, try pairing it with white or a neutral color for contrast. Two-toned rooms – again, away from the monochromatic aesthetic – are also predicted to be popular.

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Valley Eats: Seafood

Considering we live next to the Pacific, it’s no surprise there are almost as many seafood choices in the Valley as there are fish in the ocean. From nautical-themed eateries that would do any buccaneer proud to fine dining establishments to a bounty of sushi bars, here are our picks for the top seafood restaurants you should check out. With this selection, you should have no problem finding the catch-of-the-day you desire.

Conejo Valley 

Lure Fish House

30970 Russell Ranch Road, Westlake Village, CA

This family-owned restaurant stresses a commitment to local ingredients that extends from their seafood to their fresh produce to their wines. Start off with a grilled fish taco or the Seafood Ceviche (white gulf shrimp and rockfish ceviche in house-made salsa). Then move onto the steamed mussels, from Prince Edward Island, or charbroiled oysters.

Cajun Crab Shack

1074 E. Avenida De Los Arboles, Thousand Oaks, CA

Whether you’re ordering the shrimp, the king crab legs or the mussels, this spot promises authentic creole and Cajun cooking. If you’re in the mood for something else that’s just as flavorful, the Mexican seafood menu features San Pedro-style shrimp fajitas, seafood nachos, Salmon a la Plancha and Mojarra Frita (fried whole tilapia).

Coconut Crab

1555 Simi Town Center Way #770, Simi Valley, CA

Located in Simi Valley Town Center, Coconut Crab specializes in Asian-themed seafood, including tacos, crawfish, and shrimp. Try one of their pan roasts, cooked in chowder and served with steamed rice, or such kitchen specials as the lobster garlic noodles or Pad Thai.

San Fernando Valley

The Drunken Crab

13350 Sherman Way, North Hollywood, CA

Grab a bib and dig in at this Louisiana-style crab shack when you order the shellfish “by the pound.” Less daunting? The crab cake minis or the king crab bisque. In addition to their garlic, Cajun and lemon pepper sauces, Drunken Crab teases their own signature “drunken special sauce,” consisting of tomatoes, garlic, butter, beer, and spices.

Fishbone Seafood

5577 Reseda Blvd, Tarzana, CA

This fish market and restaurant serves up seafood, Southern-style. Try the grilled salmon salad to start, followed by the catfish filet (served by the pound) or the red snapper dinner, offered with your choice of two sides. Lastly, it’s difficult to go wrong with the sweet potato pie for dessert.

The Joint Eatery

13718 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA

The Joint is a coffee shop, restaurant and fish market, all-in-one. For brunch, the menu includes swordfish sliders and lobster rolls. If it’s dinner you desire, try the grilled shrimp or seared Albacore salad. Meanwhile, the seafood market offers fresh fish and shellfish.

Santa Clarita

Fish Tail Seafood Grill & Poke

28104 Newhall Ranch Road, Santa Clarita, CA

Hawaii informs their menu – from the Hawaiian Pink sea salt they wield as flavor to the ingredients they have shipped from the Aloha state. With nine poke bowls to pick from, each is prepared in a traditional style and served with a quarter-pound of either fresh ahi tuna or salmon. The non-poke selections (although can you ever have enough poke?) include grilled mahi-mahi fish tacos and Chilean sea bass.

Crab Mentality

19385 Soledad Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA

A casual restaurant serving fresh seafood with Cajun sauces, they offer seafood by the pound – from crabs, lobsters and mussels to jumbo shrimps, king crab legs and oysters. Or you can tackle the Fisherman’s Bounty, which includes one pound of shrimp, mussel clams and a half-pound of crab legs, complete with potatoes, sausage, and corn.

Greater Pacific

Valencia Hyatt Regency, 24500 Town Center Drive, Valencia, CA

Located at the Valencia Hyatt, Greater Pacific’s “sea-to-table” menu includes rolls (a “rainbow roll” consists of tuna, salmon, crab, Hamachi and avocado), Carpaccio (with your choice of seared tuna, seared Albacore, yellowtail or charred salmon) and such dishes as the Black Tiger Shrimp Amatriciana with house pancetta, caramelized onions and balsamic.

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Valley Weekend Events: February 7th – 9th

Wishing you were here or just comfortably numb? How about some cosplay and a graphic novel? That’s some of what is happening this weekend in the Conejo Valley, whether you’re up for a pop culture blow-out or just settling in with a good book.

Conejo Valley

FRIDAY, february 7th, 2020

The Pink Floyd Concert Experience

LOCATION: Civic Arts Plaza Theatres, 2100 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks

Travel to the dark side of the moon as Pink Floyd Sound celebrates the iconic group live in concert. Audience members can expect the band’s entire discography to be touched upon, including such classics as Money, Wish You Were Here and The Wall. For more information about this event taking place at the Fred Kavli Theatre, go HERE.

saturDAY, february 8th, 2020

Friends of the Thousand Oaks Library Open House

LOCATION: Thousand Oaks Grant R. Brimhall Library, 1401 E. Janss Rd., Thousand Oaks

The non-profit Friends of the Thousand Oaks Library marks National Library Lovers’ Month with a free open house at the Thousand Oaks Grant R. Brimhall Library. The group works to provide library users with support services and programs. Expect activities for children, a story hour with service dogs and guest speakers at the open house. For more information, go HERE.

McCrea Ranch Matinee and Tour

LOCATION: McCrea Ranch, 4500 N. Moorpark Rd., Thousand Oaks

Come for the matinee, stay for the tour. The Conejo Community Center/Outdoor Unit is screening the 1935 romance Becky Sharp at the McCrea Ranch Visitors Center. Following the movie, attendees will be guided through the Bunk House, Milk House, and Shop Area, all of which are on the National Registry of Historic Places. For more information, go HERE.

sunDAY, february 9th, 2020

Simi Valley Toy and Comic Fest 2020

LOCATION: Grand Vista Hotel: 999 Enchanted Way, Simi Valley

The Simi Valley Toy and Comic Fest has arrived. Or as they say in Klingon, “Maj!” In addition to a vendor and exhibitor hall, this pop culture celebration will feature an Artist Alley, gaming room, cosplay contest and guests including The Simpsons artist Phil Ortiz and the voice of Winnie the Pooh, Jim Cummings. Find out more HERE.

Black History Month Movie Matinees

LOCATION: Hill Road Library, 1070 S. Hill Rd., Ventura

Every Sunday in February, Hill Road Library presents Black History Month Matinees. The four films highlight different eras and aspects of black history in America. The event is open to the public. For more information, go HERE.

San Fernando Valley

Whether you want to sharpen your business acumen, have a laugh at a comedy club or sit down with the whole family to enjoy some children’s musical entertainment, there is plenty going on this weekend in the San Fernando Valley.

Friday, february 7th, 2020

The 5th Annual City Summit

LOCATION: Burbank Convention Center, 2500 N. Hollywood Way

Shark Tank’s Robert Herjavec and Johnny Depp are among the expected guests at this three-day-long event, devoted to networking, investing and entrepreneurism. Depp will be on hand Sunday, following the Oscars, for a red-carpet charity fundraiser. Past speakers and guests have included Quincy Jones, Charlize Theron, Richard Branson and Matthew McConaughey. For details, go HERE.

Saturday, february 8th, 2020

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast: The Broadway Musical

LOCATION: Cupcake Theater, 671 N. Berendo St., Los Angeles

It’s a tale as old as time. The Cupcake Theater adapts the stage production of Disney’s animated (and later, live-action) Beauty and the Beast. Music by Oscar winner Alan Menken with lyrics by Howard Ashman and Tim Rice. To learn more go HERE.

Craig Robinson

LOCATION: Flappers Comedy Club – Main Room, 102 East Magnolia, Burbank

Long before he got into a time-travelling hot tub, Craig Robinson was a stand-up comic – an arena he never really left, even as his career in front of the camera took off. Now Robinson, who is probably best-recognized as Darryl in The Office and from such films as Knocked Up, This is the End and the aforementioned Hot Tub Time Machine, brings his comedic chops act to the Flappers stage. For tickets and details, go HERE.

sunday, february 9th, 2020

Circus Vargas – Mr. V’s Big Top Dream

LOCATION: Circus Vargas Burbank, 777 N. Front St

The gravity-defying feats and acrobatics featured in Mr. V’s Big Top Dream are sure to dazzle young and old alike. But before the show, kids will also get the chance to be taught a few tricks of the circus trade. For more information go HERE.

A Faery Hunt Valentine Fairy Tea Party

LOCATION: Tarzana Community & Cultural Center, 19130 Ventura Blvd

A live interactive children’s show named “Best Children’s Theater in Los Angeles” by Nickelodeon, Faery Hunt is hosting a Fairy Tea Party. Expect English sandwiches, shortbread cookies and “fairy tea.” And while you are at it, why not unleash your inner prince or princess and dress appropriately for the event? Find out all the details HERE.

Santa Clarita Valley

Llama Llama comes to the stage – but did he bring Mama? One of country music’s rising new stars drops in for a show at The Canyon. And if you’ve ever considered hopping on a Harley, this weekend may present the perfect excuse to do just that. Check out these as well as what else is on tap in Santa Clarita this weekend.

friday, february 7th, 2020

Comedy Mashup

LOCATION: The MAIN, 24266 Main St.

Amir K, whose credits include Comedy Central’s Adam Devine’s House Party and MADtv, headlines this show by Comedy Mashup. The troupe is comprised of local comics and improv artists who put on a monthly show that combines stand-up and improv. For more details, go HERE.

Saturday, february 8th, 2020

The First Annual Demo Days at HDSC

LOCATION: Harley-Davidson of Santa Clarita, 21130 Center Pointe Pkwy.

Get ready to ride. Harley-Davidson of Santa Clarita is showing off its 2020 line-up by inviting enthusiasts and the Harley-curious alike to try out their latest motorcycles – from the Lowrider S to the 2020 Fat Bob. Kids will also have the chance to demo a STACYC Electric Bicycle. Riding times are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more details, go HERE.

The Pat Benatar Experience

LOCATION: The Canyon – Santa Clarita, Westfield Valencia Town Center, 24201 Valencia Blvd., Suite 1351

Hit them with your best shot. The Pat Benatar Experience promises (in the dark) a concert performance sure to get fans all fired up. As the members of the Experience underscore, they are veteran musicians in their own right, having performed with the likes of Lenny Kravitz, Stevie Nicks, Aerosmith and Whitesnake. For details, go HERE.

Sunday, february 9th, 2020

Llama Llama Live!

LOCATION: Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center, 26455 Rockwell Canyon Rd

If you have kids, you probably need no introduction to Llama Llama, which is now in its second season on Netflix. Like the series, this musical based on the bestselling books by Anna Dewdney, centers on Baby Llama and Mama Llama (voiced in the streaming series by Jennifer Garner). When Baby is ready to fall asleep, will he get his bedtime story and a kiss goodnight from Mama? For tickets and details, go HERE.

Jerrod Niemann

LOCATION: The Canyon – Santa Clarita, 24201 Valencia Blvd., Suite 1351

Having toured with the likes of Keith Urban and Brad Paisley, Jerrod Niemann is one of country music’s rising stars. His hits include Lover, Lover, Drink To That All Night and Only God Could Love You More. For ticket information, go HERE.

 

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Los Angeles Weekend Events: Feb 7th – 9th

Ready to get in the mood for Oscar weekend? Head to the historic Roosevelt hotel to watch the ceremony live or take a tour around Quentin Tarantino’s 1960s vision of Hollywood. Or if the Academy Awards don’t appeal to you, consider taking in a play in Santa Monica or a cutting-edge art show in downtown L.A. Here’s our rundown of what’s happening this weekend in Los Angeles and the Westside.

FRIDAY, february 7th, 2020

Los Angeles Art Show

LOCATION: Los Angeles Convention Center, 1201 S. Figueroa St., Los Angeles

With Los Angeles on the rise as a global player in the art world, the L.A. Art Show promises a senses-bending, multi-cultural experience with more than 120 galleries from around the world. Cutting-edge exhibitions range from painting, sculpture and photography to fashion, design and video, displayed across more than 200,000 square feet of space. All the works presented here by galleries are available to be purchased. For more information on the show, go HERE.

Saturday, february 8th, 2020

The Once Upon a Time in Hollywood Tour

LOCATION: Pacific Cinerama Sunset, 6360 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles

With Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood expected to stroll away with at least some Oscar gold at Sunday’s ceremony, now is your chance to follow in the footsteps of Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt. This two-hour walking tour will guide you through the Hollywood of the film’s 1960s setting, highlighting such locations as Musso and Frank and the Vogue Theater. For details, go HERE.

DocuDay LA

LOCATION: Writers Guild Theater, 135 S. Doheny Dr., Beverly Hills

Ahead of Sunday’s 92nd annual Academy Awards, DocuDay LA celebrates the feature and short documentaries nominated for the Oscars. Screenings run all day long, with each followed by a chance for audience members to engage with the filmmakers. For more information, go HERE.

Sunday, february 9th, 2020

Oscar Viewing Party at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel

LOCATION:  Roosevelt Hotel, 7000 Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles

What better place to watch the Academy Awards than the historic Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, where the first Oscars took place in 1929? The viewing party, which includes an open bar and four-course menu, is followed immediately by the after-party at Teddy’s featuring DJ Rick Trainor. And be sure to check out Tim Davis with the Jazz Symposium 19-piece Orchestra in the Roosevelt’s lobby. Find the details HERE.

Love in Bloom

LOCATION: Santa Monica Playhouse, 1211 4 St., Santa Monica

Santa Monica Playhouse presents this critically-acclaimed tribute to Shakespeare. With the cast of eight performers tackling more than 30 characters, Love in Bloom promises “fops and fairies, mistaken identity, romance, humor, and mind-boggling feats of verbal and physical legerdemain.” Find all the details HERE.

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LA Eats: Seafood

Considering we live next to the Pacific Ocean, it’s no surprise there are almost as many seafood choices in Los Angeles as there are fish in the ocean. From nautical-themed eateries that would do any buccaneer proud to fine dining establishments to a bounty of sushi bars, here are our picks for the top seafood restaurants you should check out. With this selection, you should have no problem finding the catch-of-the-day you desire.

Broad Street Oyster Company

23359 CA-1 Freeway #3874A, Malibu, CA

After years popping up in different locations, this L.A. favorite has settled into permanent Malibu digs. The lobster rolls, crammed with meat, are the signature dish, but you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, whether it’s one of the seafood towers (the “Standard” consists of a dozen oysters, chilled shrimp and live sea urchin) or such non-seafood options as the beach burger, boasting two patties of organic Niman Ranch beef.

Fishing with Dynamite

1148 Manhattan Avenue, Manhattan Beach, CA

What this Manhattan Beach eatery lacks in size it makes up for in taste and style. Choose one of their “old school” dishes (New England clam chowder, black sea bass or battered cod, among them) or go “new school” (grilled octopus, Pacific rockfish ceviche or seared diver scallops, to name a few). For dessert, the key lime pie is a must.

Angler

8500 Beverly Boulevard, Suite 117, Los Angeles, CA

This restaurant prides itself on sourcing seafood from local waters, then cooking its dishes slowly in an open wood fire, per chef Joshua Skenes. From their raw bar, you can choose the big eye tuna, served with grilled tomato jelly, or the Pacific ruby fish with salted plum. Menu items fresh from the fireplace include a grilled red rockfish and a whole smoked trout, but the poached marbled flounder is not to be missed.

Son of a Gun

8370 W 3rd Street, Los Angeles, CA

Drop into this eatery, located not far from the Beverly Center, for chilled or grilled peel-and-eat shrimp, linguine and clams, or the lobster BLT. For lunch, try the smoked Mahi dip with celery, radish, and crackers, the fish and chips with malt vinegar aioli, or the well-regarded shrimp toast.

L&E Oyster Bar

1637 Silver Lake Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA

You come here, naturally, for the oysters. And for romance, you can’t do much better than this cozy Silver Lake location – there’s a casual lounge upstairs while the restaurant is downstairs. But even if you’re not in the mood for oysters, the mussels on chorizo toast is a delicious alternative, as is the fried oyster po’boy. Want to skip the seafood altogether? They have a cheeseburger, with remoulade, onion jam, and bacon.

C.O.D. Restaurant

8408 W. Third Street, Los Angeles, CA

If you were wondering, C.O.D stands for “Catch of the Day.” Owner and executive chef Marcus Kwan’s own upbringing in a Cantonese village informs his vision: marrying the culture of China’s fishing villages with California coastal cuisine. After a crab salad or the clam chowder, move onto the Halibut Carpaccio, the Truffle Uni Pasta with green nori linguini, or the Grilled Octopus Plate with bacon, scallion, and lemon zest. For dessert, you can’t miss the creme brulee.

 

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Out and About: Ojai Edition

In California, zen is pronounced “oh-hi.” Located in the Ventura Valley, this town of roughly 7,500 people has long been a destination for burned-out Angelinos seeking renewal. Casual travelers and day-trippers need not be discouraged by Ojai’s reputation as a mystical hotspot. Even if you’re not in the mood for something as ambitious as enlightenment at a retreat, there is an abundance of pleasures to seek out – from fresh produce to glorious hikes to close encounters with nature. As for the origins of the town’s name, “Ojai” means “nest” in the Chumash language. In other words, once you’re here, you may never want to leave.

Morning

Ojai Certified Farmers Market

There is no better place to begin exploring Ojai than this favorite hub of visitors and locals alike. An outdoor event that takes place Sundays year-round, the Farmer’s Market is located behind the Arcade in downtown. You may come for the organic food – and you will find everything from jams to beeswax to fresh seafood – but you’ll likely be just as delighted by the atmosphere and all-around vibe. Vendors include such local mainstays as Ojai Olive Oil. The prime location also makes it simple enough to move on from the market to the rest of the town.

Boutique shopping

Without a box store or franchise chain in sight, Ojai’s downtown instead spotlights fine art, clothing, hand-crafted jewelry, and home furnishings in more than 50 specialty shops and galleries. Browse the shelves of Bart’s Books, the largest independent outdoor bookstore in the country, or drop by Primavera Gallery to peruse its collections of fine artwork.

Ojai Valley Museum of History and Art

Looking to explore not merely Ojai’s shopping and markets, but its unique past? For that, head to this former Catholic church, which houses historical artifacts, photographs, exhibits as well as local contemporary art. The former St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, which was included on the National Register of Historic Places in 1995, became the museum’s home in 1996.

Azu Restaurant & Bar

Ojai grows a lot more than just olives and lemons. One example? The Ojai Valley Brewery uses local ingredients like sage and pear to produce its lineup of beers. At Azu Restaurant & Bar, the brewery has a taproom where you can sample what’s on draft. Moreover, some of their ales and lagers are now bottled, meaning you can take a taste of Ojai back with you.

Afternoon

Ojai Meadows Preserve

In addition to sheer beauty, this protected meadows and wetlands area boasts plenty of hiking and a plant nursery. The land protection non-profit Ojai Valley Land Conservancy manages close to 2,300 acres. Of this, 2,000 acres are free for the public to enjoy.

Beekeeping at the Ojai Valley Inn

Get some face time without being stung. This 90-minute beekeeping tour at Ojai Valley Inn lets you don a protective suit, including the requisite hat, face screen, and gloves, before showing you the ins and outs of honey production. If that wasn’t appealing enough, the tour naturally includes a tasting of jars of honey from around the county.

Ojai Bike Trail

One side of the nine-mile Ojai Valley Trail is paved for joggers, bicyclists, and dog walkers. On the other side of a fence is a dirt path used for horseback riding. Meanwhile, the Ojai-Ventura Bike Path traverses 15 miles and is ideal for casual walkers, runners and mountain bikers.

Gray Whale Watching

If you’re up for an excursion off the land, a 30-minute drive from Ojai will take you to Ventura Harbour, where Island Packers Gray Whale Watching departs from. The three-hour-plus cruise promises to bring you up close to various marine mammals – not only whales but other species such as dolphins – in the Santa Barbara Channel.

Evening

Casa Barranca Tasting Room

Located in downtown Ojai, Casa Barranca prides itself on having been the first certified organic winery in the Santa Barbara region. Now almost two decades later, it produces more than 5,000 cases of wines, from reds to whites to roses, all from organic grapes.

Dining at the Vine

After a day (or a few days) exploring all that Ojai has to enjoy, settle in for dinner at The Vine, which features live music six nights a week. The exception is Thursdays, which instead offers music as well as a spoken word performance. The dinner menu includes tapas, salads, tortillas, and quesadillas. For a late-night treat, try the bacon-wrapped dates or baked brie.

 

 

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Home Tips: Moving in Together

The advice columnist Ann Landers once noted, “All marriages are happy, it’s the living together that’s tough.” Or to quote Bill Murray in Ghostbusters, “Human sacrifice! Dogs and cats living together! Mass hysteria!” Of course, every relationship has its own dynamics. The challenges two people face when combining lives and households are uniquely theirs. That said, here are a few general tips for when the big move-in day comes. Shockingly, they might even end up bringing you closer together.

EMBRACE THE DOWNSIZING

Just accept it: some things are going to have to go. How to make that a positive experience? First, you can involve your partner in the decision-making process. Who knows? They might agree to put some things in storage if you are super-nice about it. As for the things that have to go? Donate them to charity, where they can do some good. But don’t be a push-over either. Decide on “must-haves” that are staying, no matter what. Make your stand.

DIVIDE AND CONQUER THE CLOSET

A little inventiveness can help defuse the potential conflicts that come with a shared closet. That’s especially important in small quarters. Divide the space equally, then use such organizational hacks as boxes and riders to store your clothes.

PLAN YOUR ESCAPE

Whether you call it a “man cave” or a “she shed,” we all need a place where we can decompress and escape the world – and everyone else in it. So plant your flag in the unfinished basement or the overgrown backyard or even in that spot by the window in the home office. Just don’t resent it when your partner tells you they want a corner to call their own, too.

MAXIMIZE SPACE

If you’re still feeling crammed after your mutual purging, deploy any number of tricks to make your living space seem more spacious than it is. These include hanging window treatments higher than the window frame, even to the ceiling. Decorate in light colors. And invest in furniture – ottomans, and benches, for example – that can double as clutter-concealing storage containers.

BUY STUFF TOGETHER

After you have both settled into your new living arrangements, take time to shop. Decide on items that appeal to both of you. Even small household items like blenders, toasters, and microwaves can define a shared personal style. For big-ticket items like appliances and living room furniture, go exploring online first before making any decision. The last thing you want to do is buy something you both (or worse, one of you) regrets later.

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Weekend Events: January 31st – February 2nd

In the mood for classic rock? A timeless crooner? Or puppies tossing a pigskin around? We have the bowls, the balls and the bashes you can check out, whether you’re in Los Angeles and the Westside or throughout the San Fernando, Conejo, and Santa Clarita Valleys.

Los Angeles and the Westside 

FRIDAY, JANUARY 31st, 2020

Los Angeles Lakers vs. Portland Trail Blazers

LOCATION: STAPLES Center

As Los Angeles and the world continues to mourn the death of Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna, the Lakers are set to take the court at Staples Center to host the Portland Trail Blazers. Expect an all-star tribute celebrating the NBA legend. For more information go HERE.

Slander

LOCATION: Shrine Expo Hall, 665 W Jefferson Blvd, Los Angeles

Veteran DJs and dance music producers Derek Andersen and Scott Land a.k.a. Slander bring their unique sound, which inspired its own subgenre called “Heaven Trap,” to the Shrine Expo Hall. For ticket information go HERE.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1st, 2020

Chinese New Year Festival

LOCATION: The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens, 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino

Two days of festivities kick off Saturday and run through Sunday, marking the arrival of the Year of the Rat. Look for lion dancers, martial artists, and mask-changers among the events and activities set to celebrate Chinese music and culture. Most of the family-friendly fun will take place in and around the Huntington’s Chinese Garden. Details are HERE.

The Fabulously Funny Comedy Festival: Mike Epps, Sommore, Gary Owen, Lavell Crawford, Tommy Davidson

LOCATION: Microsoft Theater, 777 Chick Hearn Court, Los Angeles

Comedian Mike Epps brings The Fabulously Funny Comedy Festival to LALive, leading an A-list line-up that includes Tommy Davidson and Sommore. Epps can currently be seen on Netflix’s Dolemite Is My Name starring opposite Eddie Murphy. The streamer released his last stand-up special, Mike Epps: Only One Mike last year. For tickets, go HERE.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 2nd, 2020

Tony Bennett

LOCATION: Terrace Theater – Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center, 300 E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach

Will 93-year-old Tony Bennett ever retire? Considering the Grammy-winning jazz vocalist, who teamed with Lady Gaga in 2014 to produce the album Cheek to Cheek, has sold more than 10 million records over the past decade, why would he? Find tickets HERE.

Puppy Bowl

LOCATION: Common Space Brewery, 3411 W El Segundo Blvd, Hawthorne

Ahead of Sunday’s match-up between the 49ers and the Chiefs, sign up your pup for the first annual Common Space Puppy Bowl. Two seven-dog teams will go head to head for this 30-minute long game. Kick-off is 12:15 p.m. The victorious team claims beer for their owners. To sign up your pup, go HERE.

Conejo Valley

FRIDAY, JANUARY 31st, 2020

You Can’t Take It With You

LOCATION: Conejo Players Theatre, 351 South Moorpark Road, Thousand Oaks

This weekend marks the last chance to check out this production of the classic farce about the seemingly oddball Sycamore family and the much saner, and much more miserable, Kirby clan. The play won the 1937 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. For more information, go HERE.

Saturday, february 1st, 2020

Conejo Valley Cars and Coffee

LOCATION: Old New York Deli & Bakery, 6209 Topanga Canyon Blvd, Woodland Hills

For the past five years, this informal gathering has been bringing together car buffs for hot coffee and hotter wheels. Admission is free. Things get started at 7 a.m. on the first and third Saturday of every month. It’s a can’t-miss for any classic car lover. Learn more HERE.

Malibu Hindu Temple Tour (Cultural and Foodie Tour)

LOCATION: Malibu Hindu Temple, 1600 Las Virgenes Canyon Road, Calabasas

Will taking this tour of the magnificent Malibu Hindu Temple bring about inner peace? It’s not out of the question since, in addition to an exploration of the complex’s cultural and historical importance, it includes 10 minutes of meditation. For more information, go HERE.

sunday, february 2nd, 2020

First Sunday Electric Bike Ride

LOCATION: Pedego 101 Electric Bikes, 31332 Via Colinas Ste 107, Westlake Village

For Pedego owners or simply the e-bike curious, this monthly group ride takes participants for a scenic spin around Thousand Oaks, Hidden Valley, Agoura Hills, Malibou Lake, Oak Park and Westlake Village. Rental rates are $25 if you don’t have an electric bike of your own. If this is your first time, make sure to be at the shop by 2:30 p.m. For more information go HERE.

127, D&B Thousand Oaks – Big Game Watch Party 2020

LOCATION: Dave & Buster’s, 145 W Hillcrest Dr., 130 Thousand Oaks

If the screen in your home doesn’t feel like it will measure up to the Super Bowl, you might want to consider heading to Dave & Buster’s Thousand Oaks for Sunday’s game. A $46 VIP ticket puts you in a prime viewing spot, along with all-you-can-eat wings, among other extras. Learn more HERE.

San Fernando Valley

FRIDAY, JANUARY 31st, 2020

The Hollywood Show

LOCATION: Los Angeles Marriott Burbank Airport Hotel, 2500 North Hollywood Way, Burbank

Drop in and have your photo taken with your favorite celebrity. Stars attending the first day of this two-day get-together between the famous and their followers include cast members from The Sopranos, Battlestar Galactica, Leave it to Beaver and Back to the Future, as well as X-Men actress Kelly Hu and Hollywood veteran Lorenzo Lamas. Learn more HERE.

Saturday, february 1st, 2020

Wine Blending Class

LOCATION: Urban Press Winery, 316 North San Fernando, Burbank

Stop pouring and start blending. This class offers any wine drinker the chance to become a wine maker. After students learn a little about the grape – including a tasting of individual blends – they will have the chance to put a cork in one to call their own. Learn more HERE.

Rob Scheider

LOCATION: Flappers Comedy Club, Burbank, 102 E Magnolia Blvd, Burbank

Saturday Night Live veteran, Emmy-winning comedy writer and Adam Sandler movie stalwart Rob Schneider (Grown Ups, You Don’t Mess with the Zohan) brings his stand-up act to the stage. The show gets under way at 9:30 p.m. For tickets, go HERE.

sunday, february 2nd, 2020

“Drink, Paint, Create”: Wine and Art Night

LOCATION: Jalapeno Pete’s, 11618 Ventura Boulevard, Studio City

The name says it all. Order a drink and pick up a brush. Two hours later, you’ll have a finished painting. They supply the wine, the art supplies and the instructions. Learn more HERE.

Sunday Runs

LOCATION: Wildflower Playfields, 635 W. Avenida de los Arboles, Thousand Oaks

Fast or slow, the Thousand Oaks Racers welcome you to lace up. The only criteria? You’d like to have some friends to run with. And if you’ve never run before, or were injured, they will ensure you accelerate at your own safe speed. Expect the event, which kicks off at 7:30 a.m., to draw about two-dozen pairs of feet. Learn more HERE.

Santa Clarita Valley

FRIDAY, JANUARY 31st, 2020

Jefferson Starship

LOCATION: The Canyon Santa Clarita, 24201 West Valencia Blvd., #1351, Santa Clarita

You may have heard they built this city on rock and roll. Through the 1970s and ‘80s, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Jefferson Starship, which began as Jefferson Airplane in the 1960s, enjoyed a string of gold albums, hit songs and global fame. Get tickets HERE.

saturday, february 1st, 2020

The Tree’s Dream

LOCATION: The MAIN, 24266 Main St., Santa Clarita

Presented by The Elephantoms Puppet Theater, The Tree’s Dream is a show unlike anything you’ve seen before. Doors open 30 minutes prior to show time. For more information, go HERE.

Led Zepagain

LOCATION: The Canyon – Santa Clarita, Westfield Valencia Town Center, 24201 West Valencia Blvd., Suite 1351, Santa Clarita

If you never saw the real thing and Greta Van Fleet doesn’t measure up for you, tribute band Led Zepagain may be your stairway to classic rock heaven. Vocalist Swan Montgomery is Robert Plant, guitarist Anthony David Thymiakos is Jimmy Page, bassist/keyboardist Jim Wootten is John Paul Jones and drummer Derek Smith is John Bonham. Get tickets HERE.

sunday, february 2nd, 2020

Super Bowl Sunday Cook Off

LOCATION: Agua Dulce Winery 9640 Sierra Hwy, Santa Clarita

Bring your “go-to” appetizer to this annual Tailgating Appetizer Cook-Off. Hot dogs will be served aplenty. The event runs from 2 to 5 p.m. For more information, go HERE.

Trapt

LOCATION: The Canyon Santa Clarita, 24201 West Valencia Blvd., #1351, Santa Clarita

Hard rockers Trapt, who broke through with their 2003 hit Headstrong, perform live. For tickets and more information, go HERE.

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Rodeo News: Syd Leibovitch Recognized in Swanepoel Power 200

The 2020 Swanepoel Power 200 list is out and Rodeo Realty’s President, Syd Leibovitch, is once again recognized. Year after year, Syd has been recognized as one of the most powerful people in the residential real estate brokerage industry.

Out of hundreds who were considered, Syd was one of 200 who made it onto the SP200 list.

“The SP200 is based on a great deal of research,” said Stefan Swanepoel, Editor-in-Chief of the Swanepoel Power 200. “We send hundreds of requests for additional information, personally verifying announcements, stats, and actions that took place over the past year.”

The 2020 SP200 ranks Syd Leibovitch at #113 among the 200 recognized.

“Leibovitch founded Rodeo Realty in 1986 and today heads it as one of the nation’s largest brokerages. The company has 12 offices across Los Angeles and Ventura counties with 1,223 agents who do over $4.9 billion in annual sales.” said the SP200.

 

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