It may be your responsibility…

By: Charise Mitchell

Whether it’s another attempt to pick the lining out of our already empty pockets, or just the city cracking down, Los Angeles is proposing to remove themselves from the responsibility of repairing broken sidewalks. If this passes, it will soon be the responsibility of the property owner to repair faulty sidewalks. In short, this could increase your property insurance and create higher risk of liability if someone injures themselves.It will also mean routine inspections on your property by city representatives. And sellers, don’t even think about closing escrow before the problem is fixed.

So what should we do?

Well, first you ought to contact your local city council members and demand that the Bureau of Street Services conduct a comprehensive outreach effort to ALL Neighborhood Councils in each of the seven City Planning areas. Second, we should demand that the City of Los Angeles conduct analysis to determine the insurance liability and affordability as both insurance questions relate to property owners and City alike.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Charise Mitchell

Searching for a new home or selling your current home can be a complicated and exhausting experience. It is absolutely essential to find a real estate agent that is deeply involved in the business and loves what they do to show you the way.

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By: Michelle Tepper

If you happen to live in Encino, then you may have noticed a new nightclub in the old El Torito Restaurant space that had been abandoned for over a year. A Gentlemen’s club called Mermaids Gentlemen’s club has recently opened without regard to the community outburst. If you are opposed to belligerent drunk men stumbling from the “cafe” into the park where our children play and not to mention, the pre-school at the park, scantily dressed women hanging around the exterior of the bar at all hours, then please voice your opinion to Paul Koretz’s office at:

Shawn Bayliss
Planning Deputy
Office of Councilmember Paul Koretz
(818) 971-3088; Fax: (818) 788-9210
Email: Shawn.Bayliss@lacity.org

Here is the latest information from the Encino Neighborhood Council regarding the action being taken against the club:

To: Members of Homeowners of Encino
and Encino Residents

From: Gerald A. Silver,
Pres. Homeowners of Encino

#333 ENCINO COMMUNITY UPDATE

UPDATE ON THE MERMAIDS CAFE/ENTERTAINMENT LICENSE    Atlantis Mermaids Gentleman’s Club Examiner Hearing

The hearing for the Atlantis Mermaids Gentleman’s Club has been scheduled to be heard before the HEARING EXAMINER on:

Monday May 10th at 9AM.Police Administration Building, Board Room100 West First Street, LA

NO PUBLIC TESTIMONY WILL BE TAKEN.

The attorneys involved will have a forum to hear testimony from police, code enforcement etc. and to take cross-examination testimony.

THE PUBLIC WILL BE ALLOWED TO ATTEND THE HEARING TO OBSERVE THE PROCEEDINGS.

NO COMMENT OR DISRUPTION WILL BE ALLOWED.

Shawn Bayliss
Planning Deputy
Office of Councilmember Paul Koretz
(818) 971-3088; Fax: (818) 788-9210
Email: Shawn.Bayliss@lacity.org

****

Tuesday, April 27, 2010 11:56 AM

Jeffrey Ebenstein <jeffrey.ebenstein@lacity.org> (Councilman Paul Koretz)

Friday, Apr 23, 2010

ENDING A NEIGHBORHOOD NUISANCE IN THE SAN FERNANDO VALLEY

Hi , I hope you are doing well. I just want to update on Mermaids. The Councilman, Shawn and myself attended and spoke at the hearing re: Mermaids. Below, I have provided a synopsis of what transpired:

Mermaids is the latest in a series of clubs affiliated with the same owner-operator and located on an Encino site that was once home to the original El Torito family restaurant. There have been many reports of nuisances disturbing and afflicting the local neighborhood: past violations included service of alcohol without a license and service of alcohol past 2:00 a.m.

A recent undercover investigation by LAPD Vice Officers and Building & Safety found a multitude of alleged violations and serious concerns, echoing the angry complaints of people living in the area. Issues raised have included possible public intoxication, scantily clad employees giving lap dances, late night partying and patrons littering and urinating on surrounding properties upon leaving the club.This undercover investigation was conducted at the instigation and urging of Councilmember Koretz.

Councilmember Koretz, local residents and neighborhood groups attended the Police Panel hearing and called for action against Mermaids.

The Panel seemed very receptive to the Councilmember and the community. Because the City Attorney requires a few weeks to complete all the necessary legal paperwork, the Panel agreed to take legal action at a subsequent hearing. At the request of Councilmember Koretz, the Panel will hold that hearing at the very beginning of next month, which is much sooner than would normally occur.

Councilmember Koretz explained, “We are doing everything in our power to protect this community by getting rid of a neighborhood nuisance as quickly as possible.”

****

Los Angeles Daily News – 04/26/2010

Michelle Tepper

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By: Deena Nissley

Downtown: Tony’s Saloon
It may be off the beaten path, but the hand-scrawled menu of liquors on offer means your hand-crafted cocktail will be perfectly suited to your tastes. Ping-pong on the patio (billiards inside) recalls college (and beer pong).
2017 E. 7th St. (213-622-5523).

Santa Monica: Shangri-La
The good-looking crowd of Westside entrepreneurs and yoga addicts is laid back (the beach is just a stone’s throw away). And nothing beats the wow factor for the view from this art deco hotel’s rooftop. When it gets chilly, head down to to Ma’Kai’s ground level patio a couple blocks away.
1301 Ocean Ave. (310-394-2791).

Culver City: Mandrake
Picnic benches serve as outdoor seating on this tiny, bougainvillea-covered patio. Hipsters, fashion designers and local artists convene throughout the week, sipping on Negronis and Moscow Mules.
2692 S. La Cienega Blvd. (310-837-3297).

West Hollywood: Chateau Marmont
Despite the outrageous parking charge, the most iconic patio in town still holds up. At least the cocktail menu has a sense of humor, serving obscure classics and some silly ones like the Millionaire (wild turkey rye, fresh lemon juice, sugar and a dash of grenadine and absente). The only problem is getting a reservation. Plan about two weeks out (seriously).
8221 W. Sunset Blvd. (323-656-1010).

Silver Lake: Café Stella
The tiny beer/wine bar may be inside, but in even less-than-perfect weather, people spill outside to the small brick dining area to smoke, lounge around, and check each other out. The more like a French ex-pat you look, the better (hint: wear horizontal stripes).
3932 Sunset Blvd. (323-666-0265).

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Deena Nissley

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Replacing Amazon Bar and Grill

By: Dee Nep

Mad Bulls Tavern in Sherman Oaks

OK….Here’s the scoop…Replacing Amazon Bar and Grill at 14649 Ventura Boulevard, Mad Bull’s Tavern is slated to open May 20th, as a full-service restaurant and bar. The menu is gourmet comfort food, explains a restaurant rep. “It’s completely different than Amazon,” he said. The space has been gutted and turned into a loft of sorts, with exposed brick, high ceilings, and polished industrial metals. “It’s a tavern. People are going to be pleased with what they see.”

Restaurateur Richard Disisto also owns Lucy’s 51 in Toluca Lake, which he opened in 2007. And chef Andrew Crawley (Foxtail, Hyatt West Hollywood, Sunset Beach) constructed Mad Bull’s menu to incorporate fresh California ingredients for the gastropub-type setting. Though there are other bars in the area, the rep explained, “We really wanted to create a Hollywood venue in the Valley.” The restaurant will be open for lunch, dinner, and late night, with an abbreviated bar menu. Appetizers start at $6, and entrees range from $12-$21.

Support our local businesses…and Dine Out Soon!

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Dee Nep

Working in the field for over 17 years, Dee brings a vast amount of experience to the field. Earning a Diamond International Award from Coldwell Banker, Dee is known for her smooth transactions and strong negotiating skills.

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Ear-marked
It Will Be in Your Head All Day…

By: Deena Nissley

Music is a powerful thing. Especially when it’s Whitesnake.

And we’ve got a website that’s rounded up the most powerful music of all—for when you just have to slyly send somebody “Here I Go Again” right now, so they’ll think of that and nothing else for the rest of the day.

Welcome to a mischievous website called earwurm, now online.

The execution is simple—find a song that sums up what you want to say to that special somebody (or your colleague who has it coming), and send them an Earwurm message via email, Facebook or Twitter. They’ll get a link that looks innocent enough, and when they follow it to Earwurm, they’ll have the chance to hear a few bars of something brilliantly annoying, like Bobby McFerrin.

If all goes according to plan, they’ll be playing that five-second clip over and over again in their head until next Tuesday.

The canon runs deep, from “Informer” to “Bye Bye Bye” to the immortal “Wannabe” by Spice Girls.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Deena Nissley

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Delightful yet unexpected Mother’s Day brunches

By: Deena Nissley

Mother’s Day is May 9. Skip the usual suspects and take Mom somewhere unexpected for a prix-fixe brunch.

West Hollywood: Sunset Marquis
Soak up the sun while soaking in champagne and mimosas in this rocker hotel’s secluded garden. The mid-morning Mom’s Day feast starts with sushi and sashimi and ends with crème brulee, cheese spreads and a chocolate fountain. The main course: excessive buffet servings from salad, carving and pasta stations.
10a-2p. $65. 1200 Alta Loma Rd. (310-657-1333).

Malibu: Charlie’s
A scenic cruise up the coast sets the stage for this local favorite, just a stone’s throw from the water. Take Mom for a walk on the beach after filling up on pan-seared blue crab cakes, Southern-fried chicken and house-made country loaf French toast.
11a-3p. Charlie’s Malibu, 22821 Pacific Coast Hwy. (310-456-3132).

Downtown: The Standard
Watch the walkers of shame in the lobby or sit in the hotel’s 24/7 eatery, The Restaurant, for an organic, Mediterranean-flavored prix-fixe menu. Afterward, head up to the roof for a mid-day cocktail and spectacular view of downtown.
11a-5p. $40. The Standard, 550 S. Flower St. (213-892-8080).

Santa Monica: Wilshire
The restaurant’s first-ever Mother’s Day brunch kicks things off right with unlimited mimosas, bellinis and Bloody Marys. Select from either sweet (pannatone French toast, Belgium waffles) or savory (lobster benedict with Béarnaise and heirloom tomato, prime rib French dip au jus) on the prix-fixe menu.
11:30a-3p. $55. Wilshire Restaurant, 2454 Wilshire Blvd. (310-586-1707).

San Marino: The Huntington
After a tour of the gardens, the library and the art collection, settle in for al fresco dining (complete with roses and a harpist, lucky you). Herbed roast beef, orange-glazed duck, dill poached salmon, lemon and parsley marinated artichokes and sparkling wine complete Mom’s sophisticated garden party.
10:45a, 12:30p & 2:30p. $190 for 4 or more. The Huntington, 1151 Oxford Rd. (626-405-2249).

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Deena Nissley

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Local Retailers help stop childhood hunger

By: Linda Cardoso

Saturday, April 17th join the fight to end childhood hunger by joining TWO Tomatoes Boutique and M Street Coffee for their 2nd annual Great American Bake Sale.

If you aren’t familiar with the TWO TOMATOES BOUTIQUE it’s one block east of Fulton on Longridge just off Moorpark Street in Sherman Oaks. The TWO TOMATOES is one of my favorite “go-to” spot for unique gifts for every budget, occasion and age group.

The goodies for this fundraiser will be presented by Sherman Oaks Baby Bakers.

Help fight hunger, grab a great cup of coffee at M Street and buy someone the perfect gift – sounds like a perfect day to me!

100% of the proceeds will go to help stop childhood hunger through Share Our Strength.

The Bake Sale will run from 8:00 AM till 11:00 AM.

Click here to learn more about Share our Strength.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Linda Cardoso

By: Cynthia Sparagna

Most of us are involved with networking in some way, shape or form as it has become a necessary tool in today’s business world.  For me, it has become as natural as breathing to be involved in a networking group. Your relationships evolve within the group and you can feel confident that you can give and receive referrals to credible, reliable professionals. Here is an interesting article, which I’ve condensed, that I would like to share with very good tips for networking:

Laser-Sharp Networking
3 Tips to Getting Precision Results from Your Networking Efforts
By Dr. Ivan Misner

Did you know that the energy put out by a normal light bulb is equal to the energy put out by a laser beam? A laser has a very tight beam and is very strong and concentrated. A light bulb, on the other hand, releases light in many directions, so the light is comparably weak and diffuse. The difference between the two allows the laser, with focused energy, to have the power to do very fine and delicate surgery, artistic etching and play the broad, full sounds of an orchestral overture.
Does that sound like the kind of precision you want from your networking activities? I’ve found that there are three ways to bring your networking efforts into laser-sharp focus to make it an even more powerful way to build your business:
1. When talking about what you do at networking groups, focus on one aspect of your business at each meeting. Remember, your goal in the networking process should be to train a sales force, not close a sale. Therefore, each time you have an opportunity, focus on a specific product or service you offer, then train people how to refer you in this area.
2. When asking for referrals from your networking partners, be very specific about what you want. Identify specific people to whom you wish to be introduced. Personal introductions can open doors for you that would’ve otherwise remained closed. If you don’t know the name of the manager of another business you wish to meet, find out – then ask specifically for a referral to that person.
3. Meet with each person in your networking circle one on one, away from the general networking session, to deepen the relationship and dial up the focus of your networking efforts.
I can’t stress enough the importance of deepening the relationships with your networking partners. To really maximize the energy of the partnership you’re forging with your referral sources, it’s critical to spend time with them. Just going to a social function or sitting side by side at some type of conference or networking event isn’t enough. You have to be face to face, talking and exploring commonalities and complimentary aspects of each of your businesses to be as powerful a referral source for each other as you can be.
In our increasingly fast-paced society and business climate, it’s important to take your time to get to know your referral sources and cultivate long-lasting and mutually profitable relationships. It’s true that “time is money,” but I also know that without investing a good chunk of your time in one-on-one relationships, you won’t have the kind of strong and deeply focused referral sources you need for successful word-of-mouth marketing.
By focusing your efforts like a laser beam, you’ll fine-tune your networking message and increase your results.
Called the “father of modern networking” by CNN, Dr. Ivan Misner is a New York Times bestselling author. He is the Founder & Chairman of BNI, the world’s largest business networking organization.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Cynthia Sparagna

Cynthia Sparagna, estate agent at Ewing & Associates Sotheby’s International Realty specializes in representing buyers and sellers throughout the San Fernando Valley. Cynthia was raised on the East Coast and was the middle of seven children.

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This Weekend

By: Deena Nissley

Beerfest is Saturday. Here’s what to do with the rest of your weekend.

Street Fair: Cherry Blossom Festival
Celebrate Japanese-American culture with sushi, song, and plenty of sake at the 45,000-strong festival.
Get a taste: Kabuki’s Master Sake Sommelier Yuji Matsumoto holds court in front of MOCA.
Sat 10:30a-6:30p; Sun 10:30a-5p. Entrance at 1st and Central (in front of the Japanese American National Museum), Little Tokyo. Free. Nearby: Redwood Bar & Grill; Tapas & Winebar C; Corkbar

Comedy Show: Groundlings Showcase Showdown
New revue-style sketch show from LA’s resident comedy geniuses features improv and — thankfully — very little audience participation.
Want to participate? Take classes at their school here.
Fri 8p; Sat 8 & 10p. Groundlings Theater, 7307 Melrose Ave. (323-934-4747). $17 here. Nearby: Osteria Mozza; Village Idiot; Foundry on Melrose.

Art Opening: TRASHed Coachella Exhibit
Check out recycling bins redesigned and repainted live by musicians and artists, before they get used and abused at Coachella.
For a cause: The show (and trash bins) raises awareness for Global Inheritance.
Fri 7-11p. POVevolving Gallery, 939 Chung King Rd. (310-594-3036). Free. Nearby: Hop Louie; Mountain Bar; Little Joy

Date Night: Michael Buble at Staples Center
Jazzy crooner brings his super-smooth stage show to the Staples Center.
Hamm & Buble: The singer showed his sense of humor in one of this season’s best SNL skits, with Mad Men’s Jon Hamm.
Fri 8p. Staples Center, 1111 S. Figueroa St. $55-95 here. (213-742-7340). Nearby: Rivera; BottleRock; Seven Grand

Avian Attack: The Best/Worst Bird Attack Movie that isn\’t The Birds
Check our Twitter feed here for details.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Deena Nissley

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By: Tina Stern

Swiss bank UBS recently released its tri-annual Prices and Earnings report revealing which of the 73 surveyed cities in the world had the most purchasing power (in terms of the local costs of goods) after taxes were deducted from the average hourly pay. Forbes Magazine further analyzed the data and listed the top 100 highest-Paid cities in the world. While this data isn’t all that useful in practical terms, it’s always interesting to see the facts and figures and how we fit into the global picture. Here are the top ten cities according to this data.

1. Zurich, Switzerland: Net pay per hour: $22.60 (Gross pay per hour: $30.30).
2. Geneva, Switzerland: Net pay per hour: $20.40 (Gross pay per hour: $29.20).
3. New York City: Net pay per hour: $19 (Gross pay per hour: $26.10).
4. Dublin, Ireland: Net pay per hour: $18.70 (Gross pay per hour: $22).
5. Luxembourg City: Net pay per hour: $18.20 (Gross pay per hour: $22.40).
6. Copenhagen, Denmark: Net pay per hour: $17.70 (Gross pay per hour: $32.80).
7. Los Angeles: Net pay per hour: $17.40 (Gross pay per hour: $23.90).
8. Oslo, Norway: Net pay per hour: $15.80 (Gross pay per hour: $24.40).
9. Helsinki, Finland: Net pay per hour: $15.70 (Gross pay per hour: $21.30).
10. Miami: Net pay per hour: $15.70 (Gross pay per hour: $21.10).

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Tina Stern