The Shameless Plug Series

Now that we've somehow reached the year's end, it's time for my Shameless Plug Series, though I have plugged it in for anytime of the year. These are the business owners who go above and beyond the call of duty. They are the ones who infuse new life into the term customer service, who are scrupulously honest with their opinions, even if it means losing a sale. These are the ones who act more like a friend rather than a business acquaintance.

And this year's winners are:

Automotive: Prestige Auto, 17544 Ventura Boulevard, Ste B, Encino, CA 91316. (818) 995-4272

Even during the recession when many businesses lost 30% of their business, Prestige managed to stay in business. Perhaps their customers who commented on Yelp can help explain why:

"I have been taking my car to Prestige for about a year now," Candice G. of Tarzana wrote. "They were able to recognize a problem on my vehicle that 4 other mechanics wrongly diagnosed."

"Great service. Never had so much confidence in an auto mechanic," Jonathan K. wrote.

And I can corroborate. Sako and Harry helped me when my car died and insisted that I bring any prospective car by for them to check out, even if it meant that it would be under warranty to a competitor. And when someone hit my car, they wanted to know why I didn't come to them for advice. It doesn't get much better than that.

Locksmith: Grigor's Key Service (818) 997-7475

Somehow my car key got bent into the letter L. The dealer wanted over three hundred big ones for it, as did AAA, so I called Harry at Prestige, and he referred me to Grigor's in one of those six degrees of separation things. They showed up at my place, did the work and left while only charging me a less than half of that. And they were polite, kind and professional and didn't mind when my dog jumped into their truck and tried leaving with them.

Real Estate: Kathleen Finnegan, Prudential Realty, (818) 876-3111

Kathleen is more than a real estate agent; she is also a friend. She is warm and gracious and kind and keeps the best interests of her client in mind. She is also thorough, well connected, and a joy to do business with in the process of buying or selling a home.

Shoe Repair: Joe's Shoe Repair, 5557 Reseda Blvd., Ste E, Tarzana, CA (818) 881-1870.

If you want to see another definition of honest, look in the dictionary because their picture will be there. A father and son team that have managed to stay afloat, their formula for success is simple: They do outstanding work, are reasonable and honest.

Veterinary Services: PetVet, 19748 Sherman Way, Canoga Park, CA (818) 346-2455

Dr. Brown is the Dr. Dolittle of the Valley, as he not only has a way with animals but with people as well. I once saw him coax a large-breed dog back into the examining room by cocking his head to one side and gently calling its name, and he is just as good with people.

And those are my shameless plugs for now. So until the next round, a bientot, if you see me at any of these businesses, let me go first and have a happy and safe New Year.