In a world that is progressively becoming environmentally conscious, it is important to have outlets that allow for us to seek knowledge and practice our awareness. All Green Things, an eco-friendly boutique and online company, and its space partner, Green Graphics and Printing, offers just that – and more.

All Green Things owner, Tanya Peel with her dog Otis. Photos: Sarah K. Tohl

All Green Things, located on Topanga Canyon Blvd., in Woodland Hills, was founded by  Tanya Peel  in 2009 with the goal of educating the public and bettering the environment Her space-partner, Renee Delgado, who owns Green Graphics and Printing, found that she and Tanya shared a vision, and thought, why not share a store too.

Both Peel and Delgado had successful web-based businesses before looking into opening locations. After a little feng-shui guided reorganizing of Peel’s shop, the synergy of Delgado’s Green Graphics and Printing and Peel’s All Green Things was born. Peel and  Delgado are two determined women with a mission to educate the public and better our environment.

For Peel, her inspiration came about after viewing Al Gore’s 2006 documentary An Inconvenient Truth, which focuses on the effects of global warming.

Resource Revival bottle openers made from reclaimed bike chains, (from $10.99 - $14).

“It was a pivotal moment for me,” says Peel. “I thought about how I lived my life and how my actions affected the environment negatively, and I wanted to provide that inspiration to  other people through education and resources.”

It was only a matter of time before her website launched in 2008, and the store opened in February of 2009. According to Peel, All Green Things offers a number of different categories in products: reusable bags, reusable bottles, waste free products, biodegradable cleaning products, healthy organic baby products, and personal products.

“I think its important to go green for many reasons,” says Peel. “As our population continues to grow we are putting a strain on our natural resources. We need to be conscious of what we’re doing and how we’re living.”

Left: Reusable Bamboo Utensils Set ($11.95). Right: Flip and Tumble Bags, designed in California, ($9).

In addition to Peel’s supply of eco-friendly products, Renee Delgado’s Green Graphics and Printing services complements the space at the back of the store.

Delgado’s inspiration for launching her eco-friendly printng business came from  the daily headaches she had from working at a printshop .

Green Graphics and Printing owner, Renee Delgado with her dog Maggy.

“I used to go home everyday with headaches from the fumes in the room,” says Delgado. “Then I started doing a lot of research on alternatives for the chemicals and products that were being used.”

From there, Delgado wanted to start a movement to allow companies to go green with their marketing materials at an economically feasable price. Delgado’s Green Graphics and Printing services offers all types of percentages in recycled paper from 30% to 100%, all of which is FSC certified (Forest Stewardship Council). Colored business cards run around $65, postcards start at $90, and brochures start at $150, all depending on the amount you choose to purchase.

As for printing, Delgado uses soy ink as opposed to regular ink, which is petroleum based, and contains up to six different metals.

“Kenana Knitter Critters” dolls (from $26 - $32). According to Peel, each doll is hand-made, and includes the name of each woman on the doll which they crafted. “I like products that tell a story,”says Peel.

“Soy ink is made from a soy oil base and contains no metals,” says Delgado. “It also has very little to zero VOC’S (Volatile Organic Compound), which is a combination of toxic fumes.”

On top of all eco-friendly products and services provided by Peel and Delgado, All Green Things is a national drop-off point for cell-phones and ink cartridges, where the cell phones are donated to “Cell Phones For Soliders.” And most importantly, All Green Things helps our community by generating Green Power in the building through the city of Los Angeles.

All Green Things (818) 346-7763. Green Graphics and Printing (818) 818-854-6551  5321 Topanga Canyon Blvd Woodland Hills, CA 91364

Sarah K. Tohl is a life-long Valley resident. She graduated Pitzer College in 2009 with a special major that combined the fields of writing and media studies, titled: “Verbal and Visual Languages.”

Left: BioBag ($5.25 for 50 bags). Right: English Retreads bags, made from the inner tube of an 18” wheel tire, (fom $85 - $148).

If you’re looking for that new sleeper couch, dining room table, hand carved chair, six-foot armoire, or even a desk lamp, before you go anywhere else, stop in to Hotel Surplus Outlet and check out what they have. This warehouse store located in Van Nuys has all types of new and gently used high-quality, one-of-a-kind and designer-like furniture at deep discounts.

This family-run business has supplied furniture for “CSI”, “The Jay Leno Show” and many HGTV shows including “Design on a Dime.”Photos: Carole Rosner

Hotel Surplus Outlet has been offering liquidated furniture from four and five star hotels across the country for thirteen years. Hotels constantly renovate and remodel their rooms and Hotel Surplus Outlet negotiates the best prices for their inventory. Anything you’d see in a luxury hotel or timeshare can arrive in the warehouse at Hotel Surplus Outlet.

Contemporary to conservative designs.

Recently goods were delivered from the Beverly Hills Hotel, Hotel Oceana Santa Monica, Pebble Beach Resorts, and Casa del Mar Laguna. Sometimes there are many pieces from one hotel and sometimes there are just one or two items. Furniture can be super contemporary (from the Mondrian Hotel) or ultra conservative (from the Regent Beverly Wilshire).

Recently goods were delivered from the Beverly Hills Hotel, Hotel Oceana Santa Monica, Pebble Beach Resorts, and Casa del Mar Laguna.

On my last visit I found a six-piece dining room set by Urban Styles for $699.95, a Queen size sofa bed for $599.95 (with two pillows) and a new seven-piece bedroom set for $799.95. There were also gently used Hamilton Beach mini coffee makers for $12.95 and dishes for $1 each.

In addition to interior designers, many television shows and movie studios shop at Hotel Surplus Outlet, especially now that most of the prop shops in town have closed their doors. This family-run business has supplied furniture for “CSI”, “The Jay Leno Show” and many HGTV shows including “Design on a Dime.”

Dressers.

You might not initially consider “gently used” hotel furniture to decorate your home, but keep in mind that these are “hospitality” grade pieces that require higher quality fabric and fittings than “consumer” grade furniture. Although Hotel Surplus Outlet doesn’t offer delivery of their merchandise (they  do have recommendations), the staff is always willing to work with you on prices.

Hotel Surplus Outlet 6843 Valjean Ave. Van Nuys, CA 91406 818.787.7807 www.hotelsurplus.com Free parking in lot Hours: Monday-Friday: 9am-6pm Saturday and Sunday: 10am-5pm.

“Hospitality” grade pieces that require higher quality fabric and fittings than “consumer” grade furniture.

Carole Rosner is a native Valley Girl who took the school bus with Michael and Janet Jackson and worked at the Sherman Oaks Galleria in its heyday. She likes to spend her free time finding bargains at Crossroads Trading Company, eating Chinese chicken salad at Stanley’s and admiring the view from Fryman Canyon. Check out her new blog: www.anythinggoodlately.blogspot.com – reading, watching and eating.

As Winter is coming to an end and Spring is just around the corner, many of us may be wondering where to find the latest trends at an affordable price. The answer: Roni B.

Located on Ventura Boulevard, in Sherman Oaks, owner Ronit Binshtock provides a warm, colorful atmosphere for all fashionistas – especially Valley natives.

Before Roni B., Binshtock had already been in a long-term relationship with the retail fashion industry. With experience working at department stores like Barney’s and Macy’s, as well as Marc Jacobs, Lisa Kline, and Laurie Weir, Binshtock learned all she needed to know about running a business. And in January of 2008, she was ready to open up a place of her own.

Left: Roni Binshtock. Center: Bags and accessories. Right: Smart ensemble. Photos: Sarah K. Tohl

“I had done everything – it was time,” says Binshtock.

In just the past two years, Binshtock has already turned Roni B. into one of the most popular boutiques to find reasonable prices and friendly service in the Valley. According to Binshtock, Roni B. offers more than style – it is a place where customers can get personal service.

“People come in and its like a neighborhood salon,” says Binshtock. “We have amazing customer service – you can bring in any item from home and we’ll help you mix and match,” says Binshtock.

Additionally, Binshtock offers an environment that helps women to become unafraid of color and step out of the bounds.

Get ready for Spring with affordable lines at Roni B. Shop on Thursdays from 4-7 pm and enjoy Happy Hour too!

“We are classic with a twist,” says Binshtock. “Marc Jacobs meets Barney’s.”

Currently, the most popular items at Roni B. include: a new line of denim called “Dish,” offering “Jeggings” (jean/leggings) made of four way stretch ($98), a floral patterned dress by Deborah Viereck ($124), a “Niki Biki” sequined bolero top ($45), and a “Fumblin’ Foe” top with bright colors ($84).

In addition to good customer care and her large selection of fashionable trends, Binshtock also reaches out to the community beyond Roni B.

“We donate clothing to the Valley Women’s Center,” says Binshtock. “Customers can bring in old clothes for us to give to homeless women for job interviews, and we will give 10% off to customers that do this.”

Roni B. will style and accessorize you.

And not only that, Binshtock also has a rewards card program for loyal customers, offering a discount of 3%, 6%, or 9% depending on the day.

“You can either redeem it or add to it, but we can’t do both at once,” says Binshtock.

Best of all? Thursday’s from 4-7 PM is “Happy Hour” at Roni B. Customers can enjoy wine and cheese along with their Thursday afternoon shopping.

Roni B, 13626 Ventura Boulevard Sherman Oaks, CA 91423 - (818) 501-5115 www.ronib.com

Sarah K. Tohl is a life-long Valley resident. She graduated Pitzer College in 2009 with a special major that combined the fields of writing and media studies, titled: “Verbal and Visual Languages.”

Naomi Alper used to restore and repair old Vespa scooters for a living. She started to bring is some knick knacks from home to entertain the customers while they were waiting for their vehicles. The customers loved these “tchotchkes” so much they asked Naomi where to buy them. From there, the idea for 8 Ball was born. Naomi now believes that “laughing and smiling is better than getting dirty.”

8 Ball in Burbank has unique, retro clothing and gifts.

8 Ball is a gift store with a hip, retro, rockabilly, Doris Day-type feel. It’s fun and full of unique items. “I surround myself with what I love,” Naomi said, “If I like it, I buy it” and obviously her customers like her merchandise too since 8 Ball is about to celebrate its 13th year in Burbank.

In addition to women’s and men’s modern ‘50’s style clothing, shoes and accessories (the Lux de Ville metal flake purses were great) there’s an assortment of funky giftware too–cool kid items (such as baby tattoos and rock and roll onesies), tongue-in-cheek type candies (Uncle Oinker’s Gummy Bacon and Fruitcake Mints) and even non-religious, biblical themed items like Jesus ashtrays, magnet sets and Holy Toast Bread Stampers.

Eclectic coffee table books with topics ranging from architecture to tattoos are on sale, as is a broad selection of non-Hallmark type greeting cards. Naomi has even set- up a special Anti-Valentine’s Day display that includes Voo-Doo dolls and “I Hate You” stamp pads.

Valentines fun, books and gifts; owner Naomi Alper; Dad Rocks! onesie. Photos: Carole Rosner

If you can’t get to Magnolia Blvd. you can get 8 Ball’s items online (www.8ballwebstore.com), although you might miss seeing Angelina Jolie stopping in for another whoopee cushion as reported by a certain well known magazine.

8 Ball 3806 W. Magnolia Blvd. Burbank, CA 91505 818.845.1155 www.8ballwebstore.com Open: Monday-Friday 11am-7pm Saturday 11am-6pm, Sunday Noon to 5pm.

Clothing, Metal Flake vinyl handbags by Luxe de Ville, retro gifts. Photos: Carole Rosner

Carole Rosner is a native Valley Girl who took the school bus with Michael and Janet Jackson and worked at the Sherman Oaks Galleria in its heyday. She likes to spend her free time finding bargains at Crossroads Trading Company, eating Chinese chicken salad at Stanley’s and admiring the view from Fryman Canyon. Check out her new blog: www.anythinggoodlately.blogspot.com – reading, watching and eating.

Valentine’s Day flowers run the gamut in price, design and style.  Here are some choice finds from across the San Fernando Valley and one very unique shop just over the hill.

Artistic Flowers' arrangement of orange tulips, Fuji mums, Cymbidium orchids and a ball of spray orange roses in a clay pot. (about $80)

Artistic Flowers

Artistic Flowers specializes in high end and high quality European-style arrangements that are affordable ranging from $20 to $150. For Valentine’s Day, Artistic Flowers is offering free delivery within a 3-mile radius and with a $45 minimum. 14005 Ventura Bl. Sherman Oaks, CA 91423 (818) 988-7080 www.artisticflowersonline.com

"Valentine Surprise" from Bent Willow Florist combines ruffled scarlet roses with pink cymbidiums and a "hint" of Godiva chocolate. ($75)

Bent Willow Florist

Bent Willow is known for premium high end floral arrangements ranging from $60 to $300. They carry specialty roses called red intuition imported from South America, which showoff a variegated swirl of red and pink. “New York Valentines Moment” ($65) is their most popular Valentine’s Day arrangement. 4224 Lankershim Bl. North Hollywood, CA 91602 (818) 760-1248 www.bentwillowflorist.com

A classic arrangement from Calabasas Flowers with two-dozen, long stem, Ecuadoran, red roses in rectangular vase. (starting at $200)

Calabasas Flowers

Calabasas Flowers specializes in vase arrangements starting at $50. They only use high end flowers including the extra-long stemmed roses imported from Ecuador, which is the classic flower for Valentine’s Day. 23679 Calabasas Rd. #21 Calabasas, CA 91302 (818) 222-5576 www.calabasasflowers.com

Florentyna's signature pave style arrangement with roses. (Starts at $150)

Florentyna’s–A Fine Flower Company

Florentyna’s signature is the pave style, which is an arrangement where the flowers are low and compact much like the English garden style. All floral arrangements available also in the traditional tall style start at $110. 4774 Park Granada Suite 1, Calabasas, CA 91302 (818) 222-2446 www.florentynasflowers.com

Star gazer Lilies with hot pink roses accented with tea leaves in a trumpet vase with floating cymbidium orchids from It's a Blooming Business. ($150)

It’s A Blooming Business

It’s a Blooming Business is the largest seller in the U.S. of the exclusive rainbow roses imported from Holland. These rare multi-colored flowers sell for $12 each and vary in price for bouquets. It’s a Blooming Business is also noted for their unique orchid designs. Valentine’s Day arrangements start at $50. 14006 Riverside Drive, Suite 24, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423 (Located in Sherman Oaks Fashion Square) 818) 783-4846 www.itsabloomingbusiness.com

Red Tulips with folded tropical leaves set in a tapered vase are one of many arrangements from Mark's Garden. ($75)

Mark’s Garden

Mark’s Garden is known for their signature English garden baskets, which features a rich mixture of flowers and natural accents. With their celebrity clientele, Mark’s Garden has been named, “florist of the stars.” Valentine’s Day arrangements are priced at $60 to $400. 13838 Ventura Blvd. Sherman Oaks, CA 91423 (818) 906-1718 www.marksgarden.com

Mulberry Row's arrangement of orchids and roses. ($55)

Mulberry Row

Mulberry Row prides itself in affordable prices for floral arrangements that make your dreams a reality. In addition to their versatile floral selection starting at $5 (three Gerber daisies with bare grass wrapped in cellophane finished with a bow), Mulberry Row is a one-stop boutique full of gift ideas including candles, silver items and handmade jewelry. 13365 Ventura Blvd.,Sherman Oaks, CA 91423 (818)788-8285 www.mulberryrowfloral.com

Growing Love from Tic-Tock Couture Florals. ($650) Photo: Marianne Lozano

Tic—Tock Couture Florals

Not in the valley, but close enough and most unique…plus they deliver to the 818. Tic-tock Couture offers a diverse selection of arrangements from eclectic and romantic to modern garden styles. Always evolving with the trends, Tic-Tock currently specializes in two styles: sophisticated yet young with black containers adorned with jewel-toned flowers and the “Marie-Antoinette” look resembling a more textured and loose garden. Serving an A-list clientele in the entertainment industry, “Growing Love” ($650) is quickly becoming their most popular work of art. Arrangements start at $125. 1603 N. La Brea Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90028 323-874-3034 www.tictock.com

Wysteria Lane's "Avalanche of Emotion," contains two dozen roses in mixed pink hues. ($125)

Wisteria Lane Flower Shop

Wisteria Lane specializes in eco-friendly and organic floral arrangements ranging from $45 to $250. Their flowers are grown under sustainable practices and certified as organic and Veriflora.  23635 Collins Street Woodland Hills, CA 91367-5916 (818) 876-9101 www.wisterialaneflowershop.com

Melissa Chua is a journalism graduate from Cal-State Northridge. She is a freelance writer, and a regular contributor and copy editor for LA YOGA Ayurveda and Health magazine. When she’s not on deadline, she enjoys doing yoga at different studios along Ventura Boulevard and on the West side, hiking, dancing and traveling to anywhere with a tropical climate and beautiful beaches.

Have you ever bitten into a dessert that instantly made you smile? Well, that’s what happened when I tasted Xtreme Desserts’ Red Velvet Cookie. My face just lit up.

To be honest, the perfectly sweet taste of the cookie/cream cheese combination that embraced my palate was a surprise because I’m really not a fan of Red Velvet anything.

Xtreme Desserts "Sweet Tooth" creator Glenn Panitz making his signature Red Velvet Cookies in his North Hollywood commercial kitchen. Photo: Karen Young

Frankly, I think it is the most over-exposed, over-done, over-replicated, trend-happy flavor there is — and often made with poor ingredients that leave a chemical sweet taste etched in your mouth.

News flash — the Xtreme Desserts Red Velvet Cookie is a most welcome exception. This company’s signature cookie is moist and soft and filled with the most scrumptious real cream cheese filling made with pure Madagascar vanilla. I must not be the only fan because 3000 cookies are baked per month.  This Red Velvet  is the real deal and I’m hooked. And unlike the cupcake version, there is cream and cookie in every bite — and it doesn’t dry out.

Special for Valentines Day are heart-shaped Red Velvet Cookies packed in a red box with a designer ribbon ($46 for a dozen).  Each cookie will be individually wrapped with a heart sticker — for freshness — or to divide among your valentines.

Glenn Panitz is the baking brain behind the Xtreme Desserts and a self-professed “cookie person.” He acquired his love of cookies from his mom’s New Jersey kitchen. Panitz’s goal with his treats is to put a “twist” on the cookies, as well as the other unique baked goods he creates.

Red Velvet heart cookies special for Valentines Day. Free delivery through February with MDF code. Photo: Xtreme Desserts

Panitz’s foray into the baking biz came by way of poker. He was the designated sweets guy at his weekly games with the guys.

“I’d arrive with a cake that was the size of a mattress. It would move and crack like the San Andreas fault with the filling oozing out,” he relayed with a grin.

“Nothing really looked good, but my poker buddies loved the taste of everything I made and told me that I should have a baking business,” said Panitz, whose career background is as an executive in both entertainment and real estate.

Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Dream, Pecan Pie Maple Cookie and Red Velvet Cookie. Photo: Xtreme Desserts

And so, according to this poker legend, Xtreme Desserts was officially born in 2008.

“Everything I made was big and extreme,” said Panitz, who has since refined his baked goods into perfect looking specimens, but has kept his “extreme” philosophy — meaning top quality ingredients, unique flavors and how he creates and designs each baked good.

Xtreme Desserts currently features five different cookies: Red Velvet (as written above, stands alone); Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Dream (two soft cocoa chocolate chip cookies with a peanut butter cream cheese filling drizzled with chocolate ganache on top); Pecan Pie Maple Cookie (two 100% Maple cookies sandwiched around homemade Pecan Pie filling and topped with a lightly sugar coated pecan); S’Mores (A rich and moist cocoa chocolate cookie, circled with homemade marshmallow cream which has been torch fired and topped with a sprinkle of graham cracker. ); and PB and J (A peanut butter cookie with strawberry jelly spread in a circle around the top so you get the combo taste in every bite). The cookies all freeze beautifully for up to three months.

Brownies and Blondies are individual works of art. Photo: Xtreme Desserts

Cookies are just the beginning of the sweet madness at Xtreme Desserts.  There are the fifteen different types of Blondies and Brownies. Now we’re really talking “extreme.” You have to see these — and taste them — to believe it. Each  are individual works of art shaped in rounds with a variety of luscious frostings, combination flavors and toppings. Here’s just some of the flavors: Cheesecake Brownie, Banana Walnut Chocolate Chip Blondie, Black Forest Brownie, Caramel Snickerish Brownie, German Chocolate Brownie, Pistachio Chocolate Chip Brownie, Green Mint Chocolate Chip Brownie, Chocolate Malted Brownie, Apple Pie Blondie.

Cakes can be custom created with 72 hours notice. Photo: Xtreme Desserts.

“I just want to take all my favorite desserts and create them as cookies and brownies,” said Panitz.

Need cake? Just give Xtreme Desserts 72 hours notice and they’ll bake a made-to-order four layer specialty cake. Or need something extra special, like a wedding cake? No problem. Panitz will work with you to create a one-of-a-kind cake for any occasion. He also supplies party platters and does gift baskets as well as cookie party favors.

Xtreme Desserts — definitely a baked goods ‘find’ to put an extreme smile on your face.

FREE LOCAL DELIVERY  ON ALL GOODS THROUGH THE END OF FEBRUARY. PUNCH IN CODE: MDF — WHEN ORDERING

www.xtremedesserts.com (818) 505-1759.   Contact Glenn Panitz for custom orders and shipping/delivery questions. Available locally in individual servings at Crave in Sherman Oaks, Artisan Cheese Gallery in Studio City and Sweetharts in Sherman Oaks, plus the Studio City Farmers Market this Sunday, February 7. There will be samples!

Karen Young is the Editor/Publisher of My Daily Find

Vanilla Bean, Caramel Swirl, Toasted Coconut and Chocolate Chipetta—these aren’t the newest flavors of trendy frozen yogurt or expensive coffee drinks. They are, however, some of the flavors of Plush Puffs®—light-as-air, melt-in-your-mouth, “oh my god, these are amazing!” gourmet marshmallows.

“We might just get someone’s attention at Kraft Foods,”  said Ann Hickey, culinary expert, personal chef and President of Plush Puffs,  with a smile.  Traditional marshmallows don’t have a chance against these high quality, all natural, gluten free, fat free, no corn syrup added, artisan marshmallows.

Ann Hickey, President of Plush Puffs. Photo: Carole Rosner

The idea for Plush Puffs, which is based in Sherman Oaks, started years ago when Ann and a chef friend tried to make a pumpkin flavored marshmallow for the friend’s son. Although that flavor didn’t work out at the time, after much trial and error, a toasted coconut marshmallow was born. Ann officially launched Plush Puffs in 2004 and brought on partner Justin Leavens to help manage the numbers part of the business. Since then, Plush Puffs has been getting lots of attention, and after one bite, I can understand why.

Vanilla S'mores. Courtesy: Plush Puffs

There are currently seven delicious flavors of Plush Puffs (the others are Peppi-Mint, Simply S’mores, and Luscious Lemony Meringue) with one limited edition flavor (Sydney’s Cinnamon). New flavors are always in development—there will be Maple Bacon Plush Puffs (a sweet and savory treat with crumbled brown sugar glazed bacon) in March and a Chocolate Chile flavor shortly thereafter. To make Plush Puffs even more decadent, Ann said they are starting to “enrobe” (that means completely cover) the marshmallows in top-of-the-line Callebaut chocolate!

Caramel-dipped Puff. Courtesy: Plush Puffs

“As a candy fanatic and marshmallow aficionado, I was so excited when I discovered Plush Puffs. Their flavors are so intense; when Chocolate Chipetta is toasted it is like liquid chocolate, and their Caramel Swirl has actual ribbons of caramel,” said Chef Amy Jurist, owner of Amy’s Culinary Adventures.

Caramel fondue. Courtesy: Plush Puffs

You can buy your own bag of Plush Puffs from the website (www.plushpuffs.com) and at Southern California Whole Foods Markets, Vicente Foods in Brentwood and Henry Road in Studio City. Suggested retail price is $5.99 for a 4oz. package (16-18 pieces), $12.99 for a one pound package (60-70 pieces) and $23.99 for “The Big One”—a 2 pound marshmallow.

Local cafes use Puffs in their hot and cold beverages. Courtesy: Plush Puffs

Many businesses around town use Plush Puffs too. Aroma Café in Studio City puts them in their hot drinks; Starbucks/Seattle’s Best topped their drinks this summer with Plush Puffs and sold them by the bag during the holidays; Omni Hotels and The Four Seasons Las Vegas uses Sydney’s Cinnamon Plush Puffs in their chocolate fountains and hot drinks; the hip SLS Hotel Downtown L.A. offers them in their in-room mini bars and The Border Grill Restaurants created an entire dessert out of Plush Puffs.

A flavor for every palate. Courtesy: Plush Puffs

Plush Puffs are great eaten straight out of the bag, and the flavor really intensifies when they are roasted or melted. Simple, fun recipes are available on-line too.

Plush Puffs® Gourmet Marshmallows www.plushpuffs.com Available on line and at retail stores

Ice cream topper. Courtesy: Plush Puffs

Carole Rosner is a native Valley Girl who took the school bus with Michael and Janet Jackson and worked at the Sherman Oaks Galleria in its heyday. She likes to spend her free time finding bargains at Crossroads Trading Company, eating Chinese chicken salad at Stanley’s and admiring the view from Fryman Canyon. Check out her new blog: www.anythinggoodlately.blogspot.com—reading, watching and eating.

The Vintage Clothing and Textile Show is back this Sunday in its 25th year at Pickwick Gardens in Burbank. If you like browsing flea markets, hitting garage sales, shopping at thrift stores or just digging through your grandmother’s attic, this is the event for you.

Sixty-five exhibitors will be on hand offering a huge variety of vintage clothing, fabrics, and accessories from all eras. You never know what trinket or treasure you’ll find here—maybe the perfect cocktail dress, a gently used designer purse, or even beautiful satin shoes from the 1920’s. On my last visit to the show, my daughter scored 100 year-old knee high women’s leather boots for under $100.

Left: Vintage lace; Center: Beaded handbags; Shoes. Photos: Carole Rosner

There will also be booths with antique table and bed linens, Victorian lace, retro-style glass frames, antique postcards and much more.

Vintage Playclothes in Studio City is a big exhibitor at this show. Per Store Manager Phyllis Schaefer, look for a cross section of their merchandise this weekend, including cashmere and beaded sweaters, shoes, handbags, hats from the 1940’s and men’s wear. When I asked Phyllis why she likes this trade show, she said, “Where else can you find this much assortment in one place?”

Left: Oh-so-groovy shades and miscellaneous retro fare. Right: Antique lace dress.

Cash is king here and it may help you with some price negotiations, however most vendors do take credit cards. There’s also a small kiosk to buy food.

You never know what you’ll find at the Vintage Clothing and Textile Show, but you’ll have fun looking!

Left: Flapper gowns; Right: costume jewelry galore.

Vintage Clothing and Textile Show Sunday, Jan. 31, 2010 Pickwick Gardens 1001 Riverside Dr. Burbank, CA 91506 Free parking in lot Hours: 9am-3pm SHOW ADMISSION Regular Admission $6.00 TO BE AN EARLY BUYER ARRIVE AT 8AM – $20.00

Carole Rosner is a native Valley Girl who took the school bus with Michael and Janet Jackson and worked at the Sherman Oaks Galleria in its heyday. She likes to spend her free time finding bargains at Crossroads Trading Company, eating Chinese chicken salad at Stanley’s and admiring the view from Fryman Canyon. Check out her new blog: www.anythinggoodlately.blogspot.com—reading, watching and eating.

Whether you’re into movie memorabilia, wearing clothes and shoes from TV and film productions, name brand and designer clothing, one-of –a-kind items, or just really good prices, the recently opened The Studio Lot Outlet Store in Studio City is a place to check out for men, women and children. Items are unworn or slightly worn— prices and sizes run the gamut.

The store is an offshoot of premiereprops.com, a renown entertainment marketing company for memorabilia and auctions that represents some of the most top-ranked motion picture and television studios, including Paramount Pictures, Miramax, MGM, DreamWorks, Sony Screen Gems, 20th Century Fox, Universal, The Weinstein Company and Lionsgate, as well as major independents such as Lakeshore Entertainment, Spyglass, Constantin Films

Missioni Dress ($59, retail $250) Photos: Karen Young

The items in stock are worn or used by the second characters in a film or television series, or are extra items ordered for one of the main stars, but never worn.

Unworn designer sneakers from Leap Year ($49).

However, every once in awhile, they do have a item used by the “hero” (a lead star), such as the Canon camcorder used by young actor Jae Head, who played son S.J. Tuohy in The Blind Side. It sells for $300 (retail $800).

Some of the current stock available is from The Blind Side, Leap Year, 27 Dresses, The Nanny Diaries, Whip It, Boston Legal, Bruno, The Book of Eli, The Stepfather and Youth in Revolt.

Women's Juicy Couture suit ($189, retail $550)

Notable items with incredible price tags include brand new Coach sneakers ($49), Prada silver pumps ($79.99), Christian Louboutin white patent leather pumps ($79.99), black tie Jimmy Choo heels ($79.99), Missioni dress ($59) Juicy Couture pants suit ($189), Paul Smith men’s suits ($179.99), Paul Smith shirt ($79), Hugo Boss shirts ($44.99), Citizens of Humanity Jeans ($79), Marks and Spencer men’s suit ($59.99), Marks and Spencer tuxedo ($79.99), Men’s Champion jackets ($20), Barney’s soft tees ($25), Coach purse ($49.99), Burberry children’s clothes ($29.99-$39.99), men’s western boots ($59.99 to $179.99 for Frye).

Dan Levin, Vice-President of Marketing for Premiere Props, says the outlet store focuses on “designer brands from such stores as Barneys and Saks, but what’s interesting is that what you find at this store is one-of-a-kind pieces meant for actors that you aren’t going to see anywhere else — and marked from 50-90% off.”

Hello all you Carrie Bradshaw wannabes. Check out these slightly (like barely) worn Prada, Jimmy Choo and Christian Louboutin from "27 Dresses." Works of art. $79.99. Seriously? That's almost stealing.

Just in fresh this week is a big ticket brand new (unworn) designer collection that’s been majorly discounted from Extraordinary Measures, including a Burberry Men’s Raincoat ($399, regular price $650), Men’s Armani Blazer ($879, regular price $1756), Women’s Theory cashmere cardigan ($340, regular price $770), dresses from Barney’s ($229, regular price $500). Also, more from Hugo Boss, Paul Smith, Citizens of Humanity and Uggs.

Canon camcorder used by young actor Jae Head in "The Blind Side" ($300, retails for $800).

And on the tail of Extraordinary Measures,  clothing from Inglorious Bastards will be in early next week. Look out for collections from Mardi Gras (Carmen Electra),  Furry  Vengence (Brendan Fraser, Brooke Shields),  Remember me (Robert Pattinson, Pierce Brosnan) and The Back-Up Plan (Jennifer Lopez) very soon.

A variety of designer men's boots and shoes which are mostly new ($29.99 - $179).

If you’re a collector and looking for top entertainment memorabilia, go directly online and check out the selections to find clothing and props actually used and worn in the films and television shows by the lead stars. Of course the price point is much higher, but you’re talking clothing to major celebrity skin contact here! Check out live online auctions as well as direct purchases.

Paul Smith shirt worn in "Youth in Revolt" ($79, retail $250)

According to Levin, every piece of movie memorabilia sold online and in auctions from Premiere Props includes a special signed Certificate of Authenticity. Props sold at the Studio Lot store also have certificates. Premiere Props works directly with studios and production companies, so there is no middle party.

And here’s a don’t miss event this weekend, January 30 and 31 (8am-4pm each day) — Premiere Props is having its biggest studio lot sale of the year in El Segundo. The place will be packed with an enormous selection of top line movie memorabilia, clothing and props marked at up to 90% off retail prices. The location is 128 Sierra Street, El Segundo, CA 90245 (310) 322-7767.

Studio City’s  Studio Outlet Lot itself gets new items in weekly.  Be warned you do have to dig around a bit, but the staff is more than happy to help if you know what you are looking for. It’s the kind of store to pop in every now and again. You never know what you’ll find.

Plaid is the thing.Clothes come from current movies so they are not dated. Seen above: Plaid jacket from "Leap Year" $39, Boys Burberry pants $39.99, Plaid Diesel shirt from Boston Legal ($44.99).

The Studio Lot 12130 Ventura Blvd. Studio City CA 91604 (818) 980-7767 www.premiereprops.com. Hours M-F 11-7 pm, Sat, Sun.  11am -6pm. Also check out another affiliated site:  www.dresshollywood.com

Karen Young is the Editor/Publisher of My Daily Find

.

Decades back, there weren’t many comic book stores to be found around Los Angeles.

Sure, there was Cherokee Bookshop in Hollywood – a mecca for back issues, book collections and more. But actual comic shops? Passport Comics on Victory Blvd. in North Hollywood was popular in the mid-70s through the ‘80s. But there were just weren’t a lot of stores.

Cat of DJ's Universal Comics. Photos: Darryl Morden

Today, you’ll find quite a few, some large, some small. And it’s about more than just current comics or back issues. There are graphic novels and anthologies in hardcover and trade paper back; action figures, statues; cards, posters, t-shirts and other collectibles.

On The Simpson’s, the tubby, slovenly owner of the local comic book shop comes off as elitist and not very nice. To the contrary, most stores are owner and run by folks who love comics as much as the people walking through their doors.

One of the coolest shops in the valley is DJ’s Universal Comics at 11038 Ventura Blvd in Studio City, tucked away in a mini-mall just west of Vineland.

The owner, Cat, has a long history in comic book stores, and in fact worked for a time for the aforementioned Passport Cooks back in the ‘80s. All new weekly issues are discounted and bagged with a board (a must for comics collectors/fans these days) free of charge. He also frequently offers half-price sales on his shelves of graphic novels and also specials on his walls of action figures.

DJ's Comics frequently offers half-price sales of graphic novels, as well as specials on the walls of action figures.

When he’s not busy with customer after customer (that would be Wednesday which is new comics day), Cat is ready to chat about comics, toys and anything else. A personable fellow, he’s especially great with kids and should mom or dad come in and a certain toy is coveted he’ll work with you below that sticker price.

The hottest titles right now include DC’s ongoing “Blackest Night” event, anchored by the revitalized Green Lantern, the return of original “Silver Age” (that’s ‘50s 60s) Flash, written by comics superstar of the moment Geoff Johns (more about him later) and Marvel’s Captain America books by writer Ed Brubaker.

“Be informed and know your customer,” he says, noting that he reads all the various titles himself – admittedly a lot to keep up on as there are dozens each month from different publishers, which range from DC (Superman, Batman and more) to Marvel (Spider-Man, Hulk, etc.) to Dark Horse, IDC and fast-rising companies like Boom! Studios, whose comics include Disney/Pixar titles for younger kids and continuations of TV and film franchises such as Farscape and Die Hard for adults.

Earth 2 Comics owner Judd Meyers and manager Justin Rodriques

Cat has seen many comics world celebs come through his doors, including superstar writers Johns, Jeff Loeb and Marc Guggenheim, as well as other famous names, including the late Michael Jackson. “He came in his Bentley with his baby,” he says. It’s a family business, too. Drop in and you might find his children in the store or his wife helping out. Or comics fans debating a storyline with Cat as a friendly moderator; it’s that kind of place.

Another great gathering spot for comics fans of all ages is Earth2 Comics, which actually has two shops – one in Sherman Oaks and another in Northridge . Earth 2 regularly features events such as signings as well as special sales and such (The dollar per-back-issue sale is quite the deal as it gets even cheaper if you buy in bulk).

Earth 2 Comics won an Eisner Award.

In 2008, Earth 2 won an Eisner Award (named for Spirit creator Will Eisner and comics highest honor) as best retail comic shop in the U.S. Owner Jud Meyers has written about comics through various outlets, such as Comic Book Resources. His love affair with comics go back to his youth; he shares a tale of skipping school in Long Island, taking the train to Manhattan to the address of DC Comics, complaining to Editor in Chief then, the great Julius Schwartz, about the state of the Green Lantern series. He’s worked at comic shops from New York to London and opened up Earth 2 a few years ago.

Earth 2 hosts many writers and artists and visiting the store one day, noted comics author Mark Waid had popped in and was glad to sign some books for a fan. Many hot TV writers who’ve turned to comics, also visit, like Joss Whedon (Buffy, Angel, Dollhouse). Meyers opened his second store in Northridge in partnership with Geoff Johns, who’d always wanted to own a comics shop.

“Most fans dream of being a writer or artist and here he dreamed of owning a store,” Meyers says. When it comes to action figures, he admits it’s hard to compete in some cases with the big box stores such as Target or Wal-mart, but he can do things they can’t and “they don’t know the history of the DC Universe – we do.”

Earth 2 hosts many writers and artists, as well as many hot TV writers who’ve turned to comics, also visit, like Joss Whedon (Buffy, Angel, Dollhouse).

Cat and Meyers agree the role of a comic shop owner or manager is like being a bartender, listening to your customer, learning their favorites and getting to know them as individuals while making suggestions they appreciate and welcome. Both are hands-on and part of the community, Meyers often donating graphic novels to local public libraries.

“I know the other stores on my block; I swept the sidewalk this morning and said hello to my neighbors,” he says. “It’s definitely a mom and pop biz and it’s hard work.”

DJ’s Universal Comics 11038 Ventura Blvd, Studio City (818) 761-3435

Earth 2 Comics  at 15017 Ventura Blvd. Sherman Oaks (818) 386-9590, 8967 Reseda Blvd., Northridge, CA 91324

Darryl Morden has written and produced for syndicated radio, is a music critic for the Hollywood Reporter and multi-hatted Music/Family editor for Buzzine.com. He lives with his wife and their son in Valley Village. He can be reached at rockusa@earthlink.net