Carol's Blog

The Southern California Conservatory of Music by Carol Wolfe, The Encino Real Estate Report

Carol Wolfe (Rodeo Realty) — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 14:14:18 -0500

There are so many wonderful things to see and do in the Los Angeles area that it is not uncommon for people to overlook some of the worthiest gems that make our home so truly remarkable. The Southern California Conservatory of Music is one gem no one should overlook. This wonderful institution is devoted to providing music instruction on many different levels. They offer Private Music Lessons for Children and Young Adults on three levels preparatory, conservatory and adult studies.

Notably, they also offer music lessons for the blind and for students with multiple disabilities. In fact they are the comprehensive year-round music conservatory in North America that teaches the blind through Braille music literacy. Classes for the blind and disabled reading Braille music, sight singing, become adept at keyboard geography, applied listening skills within comparative history/listening classes, and orchestral instrumentation their our orchestral technology labs.

Their Fame program (Free Access to Music Education) offers teacher training, expertise, technology and materials so that blind students are able to be mainstreamed with traditional conservatory students.

The conservatory provides outreach to schools through out Los Angeles and orange counties. What a remarkable institution with a remarkable mission and they are located right here in West Hills! For more information about the conservatory or their programs please visit their website: www.sccm.us

Whitefire Theatre by Carol Wolfe, The Encino Real Estate Report

Carol Wolfe (Rodeo Realty) — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 13:46:09 -0500

They say you can judge a society by the quality of art that is supports. For residents in the San Fernando Valley this is good news as the caliber of theatre, art and music available here rivals anywhere in the world. One example of long standing excellence is the Whitefire Theatre.

The Whitefire Theatre proudly resides on Ventura Blvd. on Restaurant Row in Sherman Oaks. Since 1982 the Whitefire has dedicated itself to providing quality theatre to Los Angeles and The San Fernando Valley. A member of the Valley Theatre League, the Whitefire presents a wide variety of theatre, from musicals to original dramas premièring for the first time before and audience. The theatre space is also available for rent and is frequently used for film and television production as well as for casting sessions.

This summer the theatre will offer and array of original plays in their series called Friday Night Quickies. For more information about the theatre or upcoming shows visit their website: www.whitefiretheatre.com

I'm Carol Wolfe and nobody does it better.

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Canyonback Wilderness Park by Carol Wolfe, The Encino Real Estate Report

Carol Wolfe (Rodeo Realty) — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 13:44:36 -0500

I'm always thrilled to show out-of-towners the lifestyle that is available by living in Southern California. One of the great things about living in the San Fernando Valley is our close proximity to virtually every kind of terrain and weather. A short jaunt could equally put us on a beach or atop of a mountain. The latest in technology and city life is readily available but untouched wilderness is also close at hand. The Westridge Canyonback Wilderness Park is one remarkable wilderness get away that is practically in Encino's backyard.

The Westridge Canyonback Wilderness Park contains over 1,500 acres of untouched woodlands that are suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The park is bordered by upper Mandeville Canyon, Sullivan Canyon, Mission Canyon, and San Vicente Mountain Park and is accessible from both West Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley. Dogs are permitted off leash in the park if they remain under the owner's immediate control.

How truly amazing to be able to enjoy a morning hike in the midst of virgin forest and then spend the evening enjoying the night life of one of the world's largest cities. This is what living in Los Angeles affords to all of its residents.

If you are considering relocating to the Los Angeles area and are interested in finding a distinctive home for a superlative price, please contact me. I'm Carol Wolfe and nobody does it better.

Rodeo Realty by Carol Wolfe, The Encino Real Estate Report

Carol Wolfe (Rodeo Realty) — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 13:43:21 -0500

While there are so many reasons to live in and around Encino, I think the greatest is the quality of the homes here. If you are looking for a distinctive home in the Los Angeles area, you need to view what Encino has to offer before making any decisions. From fabulous gated estates that speak of Hollywood glamour to one-of-a-kind homes in award winning school zones, Encino has it all.

Uniquely located within close proximity to downtown but filled with small town grace and elegance, Encino offers the full package. Green lawns and towering oak trees all fed on the centuries old aquifer that runs deep below the heart of Encino add to the picturesque beauty of our lovely community.

For centuries Encino has served as an oasis to travelers hungry for a place to call home, the same is true today. Families find that Encino is the perfect blend of small town advantages with big city benefits in their backyard. If you are thinking of relocating to the Los Angeles area, do yourself a favor and give me a call. I'll be thrilled to show you all that Encino has to offer.

I'm Carol Wolfe and nobody does it better.

Castle Park by Carol Wolfe, The Encino Real Estate Report

Carol Wolfe (Rodeo Realty) — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 13:42:06 -0500

There are some things that never change. Thank goodness for that. Since the 1970's Castle Park in Sherman Oaks has been providing family fun and entertainment to San Fernando Valley residents. Located at 4989 Sepulveda Blvd., Castle Park offers miniature golf on a beautifully manicured 18 hole course that is reminiscent of a castle and grounds.

For those who want to brush up on their baseball game there are baseball and softball batting cages offering speeds of up to 80 miles per hour. If arcade fun is what you are looking for Castle Park has a wide variety of games to satisfy everyone in the family. Tokens can be purchased one at a time or there are discounts for buying larger quantities.

If you're hungry the Castle Park Concession offers pizza, burgers, sandwiches, fries and salads. Castle Park is open from 10am to 11pm Sunday thru Thursday and until midnight on Saturday and Sundays. Visit their website for more info or to find out about parties and group rates. http://www.laparks.org/shermanoaks_castlepk/index.htm

I'm Carol Wolfe and nobody does it better.

Fire station #83 by Carol Wolfe, The Encino Real Estate Report

Carol Wolfe (Rodeo Realty) — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 13:40:20 -0500

Summer is here and you're trying to find fun, educational and economical things to do with your children. Have you considered taking them to your local fire station? Here in Encino we are fortunate to have some of the finest fire fighters in the world serving us at Fire Station #83. These brave individuals are devoted to keeping us all safe and sound on a daily basis. But when there are no immediate emergencies they are almost always willing to educate our children about fire safety.

If you want to take your children for a tour of your local fire station call ahead and ask if you can come over, and make sure to tell them how many people are in your group. You have to be flexible because if there is an emergency, the fire fighters will, of course, have to cancel your outing. But if you are willing to be flexible you will find that your kids will have a great time visiting a functional fire station and meeting the men and women who keep it running. Make sure that you bring your camera with you. It's not unusual for the fire fighters to let your children don the entire garb of a firefighter and that is a photo op you won't want to miss.

In Los Angeles you can contact your local fire station for non-emergencies by dialing 3-1-1. A morning or afternoon at your local fire station can be fun and informative and it's absolutely free. If you visit fire station #83, tell them Carol Wolfe sends her best because nobody does it better than our local firefighters!

Camp Jam by Carol Wolfe, The Encino Real Estate Report

Carol Wolfe (Rodeo Realty) — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 12:37:56 -0500

Did you ever dream about being a rock ‘n roll star? What about your kids do they have dreams of one day being a super star? Both of your dreams have gotten a little closer this summer as Camp Jam is offering its first summer session in California. Previously, Camp Jam only offered its program in Cleveland Ohio, the location of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. This summer classes will also be offered in Orange County and right here in Encino!

Camp Jam's motto is "No canoes, lots of rock." They offer full day instruction for kids ages 7-10 and ages 11-17. Children must have at least 6 months of singing or musical instrument experience before registering. Course topics include everything from stage presence to the history of rock n'roll. Instructors include some pretty heavy hitters from the music industry including musicians, song writers and industry reps.

Sounds great for the kids, but what about your dream? Camp Rock offers an Ultimate Rock ‘N Roll Get-A-Way for Adults in Cleveland and will give parents a $500 discount on tuition to that camp for having a child attend Camp Jam this Summer. Visit their website for more details. www.campjam.com

I'm Carol Wolfe and nobody does it better.

Los Encinos Historic State Park by Carol Wolfe, The Encino Real Estate Report

Carol Wolfe (Rodeo Realty) — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 11:54:11 -0500

Until the late 1800's the main gathering place in the San Fernando Valley was the current site of the Los Encinos Historic State Park. A five acre park located on Balboa and Ventura in Encino, The Los Encinos Historic Park is centered around a still active natural spring that currently feeds a duck pond.

For centuries that spring attracted humans and animals from near and far making it a center of activity. According to history the land changed hands many times. Several Native American Tribes made the site their home and at one time the site was used as a mission.

Today the park is a historical site that is open to the public free of charge Wednesday through Sunday from 10-5pm. There are self guided tours available when ever the park is open and Docent guided tours are available on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays at 2pm, or by reservation.

The Los Encinos Historical State Park is a great place for a picnic, party or a wedding. For more information about the park visit: www.los-encinos.org

I'm Carol Wolfe and nobody does it better.

The Encino Commons by Carol Wolfe, The Encino Real Estate Report

Carol Wolfe (Rodeo Realty) — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 11:52:49 -0500

The Encino Commons, otherwise known as The Valley's Miracle Mile, is a premier shopping and entertainment center located in the heart of Encino. With over 300 businesses The Encino Commons has something to offer everyone. Whether you want to see a movie at the great Laemmle's Art House Theatre, or enjoy a great meal at Yamato or Hooked on Fish, you'll find the right mix of fun, food and shopping at the Encino Commons. On a side note, if you visit Laemmle's you will notice that I am a sponsor and advertiser at the theatre!

The Encino Commons is an example of all that is right in Encino. 9 years ago a group of businesses and business owners got together and conceived this project as a Business Improvement District. Their recent Green Project has added more than 200 trees, expanded pedestrian walkways, as well as adding medians and planters to this remarkable shopping destination. They have even installed beautiful new benches and chairs for those who would like to sit and enjoy the ambience. The total result is a beautiful and green showplace for all of our citizens to enjoy.

Encino is wonderful place to call home and The Encino Commons is just one more reason to be proud of living in Encino. I'm Carol Wolfe and nobody does it better.

Art Beat by Carol Wolfe, The Encino Real Estate Report

Carol Wolfe (Rodeo Realty) — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 11:51:42 -0500

One of the great things about living in Encino is its family friendly environment. There is so much to do and experience for the whole family both in and around Encino. Art Beat Center for the Arts is one Encino business that is devoted to bringing art and art enrichment programs to the entire family.

Located at 16545 Ventura Blvd Suite, Art Beat offers a wide variety of classes and camps for children, teenagers and adults. Classes in Drawing, Painting, Ceramics, Printmaking and Mixed Media are offered in a variety of times and settings to fit anyone's schedule. They even offer a class designed for new parents that is in a child proof room so small children can play while Mom or Dad get a chance to explore their creative side. There are also programs designed for small children to experience art with their parents. For children age four and up Art Beat offers camps and classes that are tailored to enrich, encourage and enlighten.

Camp Themes offered this summer are everything from Mixed Media to sewing and fashion! For more information on this exciting family oriented center right here in Encino visit their website : http://www.artbeatcenter.org. I'm Carol Wolfe and nobody does it better.

Monty Python’s Spamalot is Coming by Carol Wolfe, The Encino Real Estate Report

Carol Wolfe (Rodeo Realty) — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 12:30:01 -0500

By Carol Wolfe

The Ahmanson Theatre regularly presents Broadway touring musicals and this summer will be no exception as Monty Python's Spamalot makes its Los Angeles debut starting July 7 and running through September 6th.

Spamalot won three Tony Awards in 2005 including Best Musical and Best Director.

Monty Python's Spamalot recounts the legendary tale of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table and their quest for the Holy Grail, featuring a chorus line of dancing divas and knights, flatulent Frenchmen, killer rabbits, and an armless and legless knight.

Monty Python is famous for its British comedy Monty Python's Flying Circus which led to several successful films.

John O'Hurley, best known as J. Peterman on Seinfeld, and dancing his way to the championships of ABC's Dancing with the Stars, will star as King Arthur.

Places to Watch Fireworks In LA for the 4th by Carol Wolfe, The Encino Real Estate Report

Carol Wolfe (Rodeo Realty) — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 12:27:15 -0500

By Carol Wolfe

This 4th of July there are many fireworks to choose from including some of my favorites:

1. July 4th Fireworks Hollywood Bowl Spectacular - this year the featured guest is John Fogerty with a special fireworks display afterward
2. The Rose Bowl - AmericaFest 2009
This marks the 83rd annual Rose Bowl July 4th celebration. In addition to spectacular fireworks there will be a performance from the California Philharmonic Orchestra.
3. Marina del Rey July 4 Fireworks Extravaganza
Head down to Marina Del Rey for a beautiful day by the beach. The event will be simulcast on KXLU, 88.9 FM.
4. 10th Annual Fireworks Festival - Journey Through Time
The Studio City Chamber of Commerce hosts this bash on the CBS lot. Great party, family friendly.

LA Connection Improv by Carol Wolfe, The Encino Real Estate Report

Carol Wolfe (Rodeo Realty) — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 12:25:34 -0500

By Carol Wolfe

Let's face it; we could all use a little laugh now and then.

The LA Connection has been providing first rate comic improv to Los Angeles since 1977. Founded by Kent Skov, the LA Connection provides training opportunities for young up and coming comedians as well as children and teens. Improvisational Comedy made famous by the hit television show Whose Line is it Anyway? features actors who improvise around a set of circumstances provided by the audience. Hilarity usually ensues.

A wide range of improv shows are offered on a weekly basis, everything from children to teens. The LA Connection is available for special events and birthday parties. To order tickets, book a party, or sign up your child for comic improv classes call 818.710.1320 ext. 2

The Griffith Observatory by Carol Wolfe, The Encino Real Estate Report

Carol Wolfe (Rodeo Realty) — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 18:29:36 -0500

By Carol Wolfe

The Griffith Observatory is one of the most famous landmarks in Los Angeles, made famous by the hit James Dean movie Rebel Without a Cause.

With the newly refurbished dome, star projector and theater, the Samuel Oschin Planetarium is without a doubt the finest planetarium in the world.

Currently the planetarium features three different shows guaranteed to transport visitors on a journey through cosmic space. The first show Centered in the Universe addresses man's deepest questions about where we come from and how we came to be, starting with The Big Bang.

The second show, Water is Life takes visitors on a journey through space looking for signs of life and water on other planets.

The newest show First Light: The Telescope Changed Everything explores the night sky and how Galileo's discoveries changed our world.

The Griffith Observatory is located in Los Angeles on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park. Admissions to the grounds are free. There is a small charge to attend shows in the Samuel Oschin Planetarium. For more information visit www.griffithobs.org

Hollywood Bowl by Carol Wolfe, The Encino Real Estate Report

Carol Wolfe (Rodeo Realty) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 12:22:18 -0500

By Carol Wolfe

The Hollywood Bowl is the largest outdoor amphitheatre in the United States and a major Hollywood Icon.

It is a place where the world's finest musicians come to play on an outdoor stage for a crowd that is happy to enjoy the music, ambience and twinkling stars hung on the LA skyline.

The Hollywood Bowl is the summer home of the LA Philharmonic but the music doesn't end there. The best in Jazz, Classical, Broadway and world music find their way to The Hollywood Bowl each summer.

There are three types of seating at the Hollywood bowl, box seats, chairs and benches, seat cushions are available for a small charge.

There is no such thing as a bad seat at the Hollywood Bowl as large video screens project what is happening on stage.

Food and Beverages are sold on the premises but picnic baskets are also allowed depending on the event. Ticket prices range from $1 to $100 and subscription packages are available.

Single Story Mediterranean Estate in Prime Tarzana Locale by Carol Wolfe, The Encino Real Estate Report

Carol Wolfe (Rodeo Realty) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 12:20:33 -0500

By Carol Wolfe

Tennis anyone? This lovely secluded estate lies nestled behind electric gates and a hedged wall.

The circular drive leads the way to leaded glass double doors and an enormous foyer and a generous sized living room. Marble flooring leads to the library with custom bookcases and a desk. Living room and formal dining room lead to a remarkable chef's kitchen with a tremendous center island, custom maple cabinets, granite countertops and top of the line Viking and Sub-Zero appliances.

A sumptuous family room and five bedrooms finish the existing rooms.

The master suite boasts etched glass windows, and an elegant bathroom with spa tub and an oversized shower. French doors open out to verdant lawns, a swimming pool, barbecue area, and north-south tennis court.

This home has to be seen to be appreciated.

The LA Film Festival by Carol Wolfe, The Encino Real Estate Report

Carol Wolfe (Rodeo Realty) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 12:18:37 -0500

By Carol Wolfe

The Los Angeles Film Festival is an annual event where, for ten days, some of the best of independent film, both American and International is showcased.

Each year over 100,000 people attend the festival and over 175 films are shown. This year the festival will begin on June 18th opening with a touching film entitled Paperman which stars Jeff Daniels as a man who regularly speaks to a super hero inside his head (played by Ryan Reynolds)

The festival will also feature the US premiere of the new Transformer movie. For the complete schedule and information on how and where to obtain tickets please visit: http://www.lafilmfest.com/index.php

I'm Carol Wolfe and nobody does it better.

Gated Tuscan Villa in Amestoy Estates

Carol Wolfe (Rodeo Realty) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 12:17:01 -0500

By Carol Wolfe

Quality, craftsmanship and attention to detail are the words that spring to mind in this spectacular new two story Tuscan Villa in Amestoy Estates. A stone paved circular drive leads the way to this stunning property which is set back from the street and rests on a half acre of impressive park like grounds.

The two story foyer delivers a dramatic curved wrought iron staircase and beautiful travertine flooring all lit by wrought iron chandeliers and clerestory windows against a beautiful domed ceiling.

There are 6 En-suite Bedrooms, including maid's quarters and 6.5 Bathrooms. The main level boasts a home theater, banquet sized formal dining room, hardwood floors edged with stone, and wood beamed ceilings. The step down living room features travertine floors with a border of mosaic tiles, vaulted ceilings and a spectacular cast stone fireplace. The Cook's kitchen delights with granite counter tops, a center island with marble top and top-of-the-line appliances including a Wolf 6 burner range and a glass front SubZero refrigerator. Completing the main level is a family room with a granite wet bar and another cast stone fireplace.

The second level features four spacious en-suite bedrooms as well as a divinely luxurious master suite complete with retreat area, stone fireplace, wet bar and balcony. The master bath boasts a spa tub, dressing table, oversized shower with curved glass and multiple shower heads. Additionally there is an upstairs open landing ideal for studying with built-in bookcases and a desk.

This home also features dual staircases, a temperature controlled wine cellar, an indoor and outdoor speaker system with room controls, custom lighting throughout, crown moldings, four zone HVAC, a security system and a three car garage.

To view this divine property or other homes of distinction in the Encino area please contact me. I'm Carol Wolfe and nobody does it better.

English Country Estate in Tarzana

Carol Wolfe (Rodeo Realty) — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 13:42:11 -0500

By Carol Wolfe

Stunning is too mild a word to describe this remarkable Country English estate with sprawling frontage. Situated at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac this estate offers elegance and privacy.

From the wide brick pathway bordered by roses and flowers that welcomes you to a front door with leaded glass and side lights, this home has it all.

The two story foyer features hardwood floors that flow throughout the main entertaining rooms, lit by a beautiful crystal chandelier above the main staircase. The step down formal living room delights with vaulted beamed ceilings and a beautiful stone fireplace. A formal dining room features leaded and stained glass windows, crown moldings, wainscoting, a window seat, and an Italian porcelain chandelier.

The chef's kitchen boasts a Viking 6-burner range plus griddle, Sub Zero refrigerator, granite counters, butcher block center island, a copper-faced dishwasher, and maple cabinets. Completing the main wing are a family room with brick fireplace, vaulted beamed ceilings and built-in bookcases, a sunny breakfast room with French doors that open to a lovely al fresco dining patio and maid's quarters.

A separate wing of the home features a game/billiard room, gym, and Honduran mahogany paneled library with granite fireplace, coffered ceiling and rotunda.

Upstairs there are 4 bedrooms including a spacious master suite, replete with a brick fireplace retreat, a tiled balcony, and two walk-in closets. The spectacular master bathroom features marble counters and floors, a spa tub and bidet.

This charming estate features numerous custom upgrades including lath and plaster walls, abundant storage areas, numerous leaded, beveled, etched, and stained glass windows, a copper turret, and several window seats.

The expansive tree-studded grounds include citrus trees, verdant lawns, as well as rose gardens and lush plantings. The mosaic tiled pool and spa and vine-covered gazebo add to the atmosphere of English elegance. To view this estate please contact my office, I'm Carol Wolfe and nobody does it better.

iFly!

Carol Wolfe (Rodeo Realty) — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 13:38:21 -0500

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to jump out of an airplane, but the thought of careening toward the earth gives you weak knees? Well now you can get the entire sensation of sky diving while never going near an airplane. Only in Los Angeles!

SkyVenture is an innovative company that has created a vertical wind tunnel that simulates skydiving indoors. iFLY Hollywood gives you the opportunity to experience the rush and thrill of flying within a safe environment. Located on Universal Studios City Walk in Los Angeles, iFLY is housed in a clear tube allowing you to see and be seen as you practice your flying maneuvers with the help of a skilled instructor.

This is a great activity to do as a family or as a corporate bonding activity. It makes a great gift for graduations, birthdays and even retirements. Still too scared to try? It's worth taking a visit to Universal City Walk and watching others as the experience weightlessness!

The Skirball Cultural Center

Carol Wolfe (Rodeo Realty) — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 13:33:49 -0500

There are so many things to do in the Los Angeles area, so many museums, cultural events, festivals and celebrations, that you can easily overlook some of the gems that are available. The Skirball Cultural Center is definitely a gem that should not be overlooked!

Quoted in the The New York Times as "a lesson on how to connect the eye to heart and mind," the Skirball Cultural Center offers a wide range of exhibits to entertain the entire family. Right now the Center has several exhibits and events focusing on the theme of comic book heroes. And of course the acclaimed Noah's Arc exhibit continues to reside at the Center.

Located at 2701 North Sepulveda Blvd. in Los Angeles, admission to the Skirball Cultural Center is $10 for adults, $7.50 for Seniors and Students, $5 for children 2-12 and children under 2 are free. Additionally every Thursday the Center is open to public free of charge. The Museum Hours are Tuesday-Friday, 12:00-5:00 p.m. and Saturday-Sunday, 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. They are closed on Mondays and most Jewish Holidays.

Whale Watching

Carol Wolfe (Rodeo Realty) — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 13:31:46 -0500

If Whales are your thing, Los Angeles is definitely the place to be in May. The whale watching season is short and by May most of the grey whales have migrated making it difficult although not impossible to see them from a chartered boat. But if you want a guaranteed view take a trip to the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach.

This is a great day trip that is full of wonder and educational to boot! The Aquarium of the Pacific features an interactive experience for all ages and features more than 500 species of sea life within 19 different habitats. Its 32 focus exhibits make the Aquarium of the Pacific one of the largest aquariums in the United States. And right now there are two different exhibits featuring Whales!

The Aquarium of the Pacific is open daily from 9am- 6pm, they encourage you to visit in off peak hours, either during the week or early on weekend days as the aquarium is a popular attraction and crowds are heavy on weekend afternoons.

The Aquarium of the Pacific is located at 100 Aquarium Way Long Beach, CA 90802
Tickets for adults are $23.95, children ages 3-11 are $11.95 and Seniors are $20.95.

Sweet Evening of Wine and Jazz

Carol Wolfe (Rodeo Realty) — Fri, 29 May 2009 12:24:24 -0500

The Encino Chamber of Commerce will be hosting The Sweet Evening of Wine and Jazz on June 4 th from 5pm to 9pm at the Hilton Woodland Hills, 6360 Canoga Avenue in Woodland Hills.

Featured at the event will be a selection of fine wines, micro brews, appetizers and an array of desserts. This is a wonderful opportunity to gather with friends and community members, enjoy delectable delicacies, good company and raise money for some very worthy charities.

Tickets are $50 per person and $85 per couple. A portion of the proceeds from this delightful event will benefit: Ability First, California Family, The Cal Fam Counseling Center, The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and The Parkinson's Resource Center.

I hope I see you there! For more information on this event visit the Encino Chamber of Commerce. I'm Carol Wolfe and nobody does it better.

Gustavo Dudamel

Carol Wolfe (Rodeo Realty) — Fri, 29 May 2009 12:22:02 -0500

If you are a classical music fan; or if you watch 60 Minutes religiously then you have heard of Gustavo Dudamel. If you have not heard of him you are in for a treat. Later this year this exciting and talented young conductor will become the Music Director of the Los Angles Philharmonic.

Born in 1981 in Venezuela, Dudamel was raised within the Venezuelan music system, a much lauded program that places a musical instrument into any willing child's hands and offers free after school lessons. By the age of 14, Dudamel was an award winning violinist and had begun to study conducting. His passion for music is unparalleled and having come from a system that encourages children to learn and play music, Dudamel has pledged to bring that level of commitment and educational opportunity to the Los Angeles area.

For the last year Dudamel has been performing periodically as a guest director of the LA Philharmonic at the Walt Disney Concert Hall. This summer he is also slated to conduct at the Hollywood Bowl. Once you see this spirited conductor in action you will know what all of the fuss is about. Join all of Los Angeles as we welcome this exciting artist to our home and look forward to the music that he will bring to the next generation!
I'm Carol Wolfe and in the world of classical music nobody does it better than Gustavo Dudamel!

Gated Tuscan Villa in Amestoy Estates

Carol Wolfe (Rodeo Realty) — Wed, 20 May 2009 12:28:15 -0500

Quality, craftsmanship and attention to detail are the words that spring to mind in this spectacular new two story Tuscan Villa in Amestoy Estates.

A stone paved circular drive leads the way to this stunning property which is set back from the street and rests on a half acre of impressive park like grounds.

The two story foyer delivers a dramatic curved wrought iron staircase and beautiful travertine flooring all lit by wrought iron chandeliers and clerestory windows against a beautiful domed ceiling.

The Cook's kitchen delights with granite counter tops, a center island with marble top and top-of-the-line appliances including a Wolf 6 burner range and a glass front SubZero refrigerator. Completing the main level is a family room with a granite wet bar and another cast stone fireplace.

To view more photos visite www.otsegoestate.com. To view this divine property or other homes of distinction in the Encino area please contact me. I'm Carol Wolfe and nobody does it better.