Calabasas Style Magazine: January/February 2015 by Calabasas Style

The Ghodadra Family At Home in Calabasas

Move The Best Ways to Get Fit

Health Check A Guide to Health and Well-Being

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Table of CONTENTS Auto 82 94

Fashion The L.A. Auto Show

World Famous Supercar Sunday

30 34

Winter Fashion and Trends

24 National Charity League Debutants of 2014

Financial Brief

114 January 116 February/March

102 Inflation: Economic Peak Performance, Part One

Fitness

Health and Beauty

36 MOVE 42 Get Up and Move

Country Club Life

Calabasas Country Club

Cover Feature 18 The Ghodadra Family At Home in Calabasas

Dining in Style

74 76

Calabasas Style

Healthy Choices Pedalers Fork

22 26 32 44 56 60

Keep it Simple

Westfield’s Cocktails and Couture Party with a Purpose Casa Pacifica and Neiman Marcus Silverado Veterans

Very Skinteresting

Health Check Stop Clenching onto your Stress

The Right Environment Matters with Dementia

82 88

MUSE Lavender Faire

Tech Talk

Home Furnishings

62 72 98 104 122

Sugar Plum Tea Party

Hear Clear Hearing Aids

96 Calwest Head and Neck Surgical Institute

Styles We Love for Winter

Calendar of Events

Special Events

Noble Spaces Arizona Leather Made in California

112

Put Down that Donut

Valentine’s Day

78 90

Valentine’s Gift Guide Love is in the Air

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note from the

r o t i Ed

appy 2015 to one and all! The start of a new year is one of my favorite times because it comes with the positive desire for us to better ourselves. We are reenergized with motivation to treat our souls with love and compassion, and we are relentless in focusing on our well-being as we get our bodies moving and indulge in only the most wholesome foods. We have dedicated a great part of this issue to inspire as well as help you stay true to your wellintentioned resolutions with our Health Check and Move sections. These special sections highlight the best places to get fit and stay healthy from head to toe. Ensuring the importance of health in the new year, Dr. Kerner shares with us a number of surgical treatment techniques to help those suffering from obstructive sleep apnea and who cannot tolerate a CPAP mask. Since hearing loss is the third most common health problem in the U.S., we were delighted to gain insight and learn more about how to combat this issue from Hear Clear Hearing Aids. If you are looking for a new favorite restaurant, Pedalers Fork can fulfill all your cravings with delicious kitchen masterpieces sourced from local ingredients. Embarking on our journeys into 2015, some of us not only want to spruce up our lifestyles with a healthier twist, but we are also looking to spruce up our homes, and Arizona Leather is here to help educate us about the perfect piece of upholstered leather. The new year is also a wonderful time to reconnect with our loved ones. Thus, we are proud to feature the Ghodadra family -- a family who truly inspires one another and is happy to dedicate this inspiration to the Calabasas community. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s raise our glasses and toast to the new year and all that it may bring.

Irene Marshall, Editor stylepublishing@gmail.com calabasasstyle.com facebook.com/CalabasasStyle ON THE COVER:

The Ghodadra Family

Photography by Marvin Steindler

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The Ghodadra Family At Home In Calabasas

Move The Best Ways to Get Fit

Health Check A Guide to Health and Well Being

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PUBLISHER Billie Marshall EDITOR Irene Marshall CREATIVE DIRECTOR Elissa Linick ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Linda Perry ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVE Deborah Ryback Editorial and Account Coordinator Sabrina Samedi STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Marvin Steindler CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Renee Appell Adam Blaser James Doss Irene Marshall Debbie Vaccarello STAFF WRITERS Susan Hale Elena Richards Sabrina Samedi CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Marc Cohen Dr. Anna Guanche Beth Cone Kramer Dustin Troyan Mark Wendell CALENDAR EDITOR Amanda Ragatz COPY EDITOR Nicole Schubert ACCOUNTING Amanda Ragatz SUBSCRIPTIONS $18 per year ADVERTISING & INFORMATION 310.494.6250 stylepublishing@gmail.com calabasasstyle.com 860 Hampshire Road, Suite H Westlake Village, CA 91361 Like us on Facebook facebook.com/CalabasasStyle

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The Ghodadra Family: At Home in Calabasas

By Beth Cone Kramer Photography By Marvin Steindler

hen children’s book author Reetu Dua was growing up in Chatsworth, she always had her eye on the burgeoning community of Calabasas. After graduating from USC, she moved to Chicago for law school where she met Neil Ghodadra. The couple lived in Chicago for six years. Reetu practiced health care and real estate law at the prestigious law firm Holland & Knight while Neil completed his orthopedic residency and sports medicine fellowship at Rush University Medical Center, taking care of the Chicago Bulls and Chicago White Sox. Reetu’s husband was offered a great job opportunity in Southern California. “We immediately started looking at The Oaks,” Reetu shares. “As someone with a passion for real estate, I had been following the real estate trends in the area and noticed The Oaks was considered a hot spot. The real estate market was down at the time, so I thought it was the best time to jump in. We thought Calabasas was the ideal place to raise a family and, to us, family was everything.” Neil and Reetu are doing just that. Their older son Arian, 3 ½, is enrolled at the Montessori of Calabasas Too, and younger son Adyn, 20 months, will join his brother in March. Arian is involved in

Calabasas Style

soccer, Kumon, and art classes, while Adyn attends a Mommy and Me program called “Outside the Box” in Woodland Hills. The couple often takes their sons to museums and educational centers throughout Southern California. Neil currently practices sports medicine and orthopedic surgery in Beverly Hills and Westlake Village. He has authored over 65 textbook chapters and journal articles. A renowned surgeon, he has many professional athlete and celebrity clients. He is also a television personality and medical correspondent on “The Doctors,” Lakers TV Network, and the NFL Network. In addition to his medical practice and media appearances, Neil is the team physician for Milken High School and takes care of many athletes from Viewpoint, Oaks Christian, Sierra Canyon, and Harvard Westlake. He was chosen Orthopedic Surgeon of the Year 2013 by the Arthritis Foundation of L.A., for which he currently serves on the board. Also in 2013, he was voted one of the “Best Doctors” in America. As the co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of Doc’s Drinks, Neil has created a body-replenishment system of drinks, powders, and gummy vitamins to be sold at Amazon and many other major retailers this year.

Neil isn’t the only busy one in the family. Reetu has penned two children’s books, “Ari Loves the Holidays” and “Ari Loves the Solar System.” She says, “I am passionate about reading to my kids so this has been an amazing transition in my professional life.” Reetu has an entire educational series in the works. Her books are currently available online at Barnes & Noble, Walmart, Target, Amazon, and Books-A-Million and in store at many retailers. Reetu has many scheduled book readings and signings at bookstores and educational centers in California, Georgia and New York to promote her series. She particularly enjoys engaging her children in the process as her kids attend the readings, which Arian calls “going to work.” When Reetu’s first children’s book, “Ari Loves the Holidays,” was released, Barnes & Noble in The Commons of Calabasas was excited to host a book signing for the local author and even gave her book its own display for October and December. Local businesses -- including Rolls-Royce Westlake, Sugarfish, Emil Hartoonian at Sotheby’s, Cool Hot Yoga, Florentyna’s Flowers, Calabasas Med Spa, Wink Optometry, Aimee Schapp Studio, Salon Nuuvo, and Polacheck’s -supported Reetu’s accomplishment by donating raffle prizes for her book release party at the Hidden Hills estate of Rajeev and Tunisha Tandon. All donations were used to purchase books for kids in children’s hospitals. Reetu had always heard about the community involvement in Calabasas but the local support really drove this home. Reetu is very active at the Valley Hindu Temple in Northridge as well as children’s hospitals and the Toys for Tots organization. She says, “My book series has inspired me to do something bigger. The more books I am able to write and sell, the more books I’ll be able to donate to children in need.” Neil adds, “One can dream and achieve great things and happiness with inspiration and hard work. The journey is more exciting and more likely to happen with the support and love of a community, of which none is better than Calabasas.” n If you know a great family or individual to profile, please contact us at: stylepublishing@gmail.com.

Casa Pacifica

NEIMAN MARCUS

By Sabrina Samedi

Casa Pacifica Angels and Neiman Marcus Topanga hosted their Thirteenth Annual Spotlight on Style at the Four Seasons Westlake Hotel on November 22. The event was a huge success as it was sold out with 500 attendees for a luncheon and Neiman Marcus runway fashion show that showcased the latest and greatest trends Neiman Marcus has to offer. Additionally, the occasion featured a specialty boutique for guest’s shopping delight and a silent auction. The main event was a 30 minute Neiman Marcus runway fashion show with 17 runway models and a to-die-for lighting and stage performance. Casa Pacifica Angels were delighted and humbled with the fashion show’s turnout and this year’s event raised the bar for next year’s charitable luncheon.

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Fashion Scene

Styles We Love for Winter 1 1. BESITOS BOUTIQUE FINE WOMEN’S CLOTHING Discover the fun and fabulous Vintage Original Designs by Styles Ever After. Designer Kim Styles takes vintage and collectable shirts, patterns, and fabrics and trims and re-styles them into funky one-of-a-kind designs that capture and reflect some of your best memories. Besitos can style you for any occasion! 23504 Calabasas Rd. Calabasas (Next to Pedalers Fork) 818.497.6100 besitosboutique.com 2

2. BLUSH Blush Boutique caters to women who love to wear fantastic clothes at affordable prices. New styles arrive weekly and everything at Blush is under $100. You’ll love the great selections of jeans, leggings, sweaters, jackets, tops and accessories. Be sure to check out the exclusive picks by Blush owner, labeled “Sooluv by Sherry.” New store open in Thousand Oaks. Calabasas The Courtyard at the Commons 23671 Calabasas Rd. Calabasas 818.222.5874 Thousand Oaks 1610 East Thousand Oaks Blvd. Thousand Oaks 805.497.6100 shopmyblush.com

3. STELLA AND DOT Eye candy! Love comes in every color at Stella & Dot – everyone’s favorite designer of fashion jewelry and accessories. You’ll love the Chelsea Tech Wallets and Capri Pouch and the dazzling assortment of necklaces, rings, bracelets, and earrings! Many gift items under $50. Call or email personal stylist Shari Huntington to buy or to host a show today! Shari Huntington Independent Stylist 818.635.0310 Products available online. stelladot.com/sharihuntington

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4 LES BOUDOIRS The Christine Lingerie ruby and black lace Diva Gown features silk charmeuse with glamorous lace accents. The subtle yet sexy black bodysuit is from the Valery Lingerie Tenera Collection. The Wolford Fatal Precious Dress, shown in black, is a versatile must have as it can transform from a dress with a glittering hem to a skirt when gathered together. The hem features Swarovski elements and a matching collar, bracelet and sleeves are also available in store. Westlake Plaza 966 South Westlake Bl.,#10 Westlake Village LesBoudoirs.com 805.870.5679

5. VIA ALLEGRA Discerning Women able to appreciate true Italian Craftsmanship, with a romantic combination of exceptional fabrics and unexpected details, will fall in love with this boutique’s truly sensational collection of clothing and acessories. Via Allegra is locally owned and operated by a family of Fashion professionals to personally select the ideal pieces for your wardrobe. Whizin Market Square (in front of Hugo’s) 28914 Roadside Dr. Agoura Hills 310.951.5152 ViaAllegra.com 6. FilLmore & 5th DESIGNER CONSIGNMENT Fillmore & 5th is a designer consignment boutique specializing in highly coveted clothing and accessories for women and men at a fraction of the original retail price. Featured: Theyskens Theory Shiny Tuxedo Jacket, Giorgio Armani Beige Button Down, John Galiano Grey Skirt. Matched with: Proenza Schouler Bootie, Givenchy Green Suede Handbag. Boutique Jewelry completes the look. 30750 Russell Ranch Rd., #E Westlake Village 818.706.0701 westlake@fillmore5th.com For inquires about Styles We Love: Contact us at 310.494.6250 stylepublishing@gmail.com calabasasstyle.com Shop local for the season’s best styles!

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Cocktails & Couture

Westfield’s By Sabrina Samedi Getty Images / Vivien Killile for Westfield Style

Westfield Style’s exclusive Cocktails and Couture event took place on November 13th in the Luxury Collection Court in the Westfield Topanga shopping center. This fabulous event featured trend presentations, courtesy of Neiman Marcus and celebrity stylist Monica Rose, as well as special, one-night-only, in-store activations. Ali Jawad, Anthony Herrera, Danny Godoy, Dustin Jasso, and Wendy Rea are five talented and emerging designers from FIDM’s Design Lab who created red-carpet, couture-inspired gowns live on-site. Westfield Style’s Cocktails and Couture event offered guests an insider’s look into the season’s most coveted looks. To add more excitement to the mix, this luxurious event included a silent auction that benefitted Bright Pink, the only national nonprofit organization focusing on the risk reduction and early detection of breast and ovarian cancer in young woman. Tallarico vodka and Keurig did their part by keeping attendees refreshed with decadent beverages as they shopped the latest trends. This style event also featured fashion sketching by FIDM students and a free gift with purchase from Westfield Topanga luxury retailers.

Calabasas Style

Beauty Products Must Have

for 2015

The Eve Lom Cleanser The Eve Lom Cleanser was recently described by Vogue Magazine as “probably the best cleanser in the world” and is one of our staff’s favorites. This iconic, multi-award winning product does it all - cleanses, decongests, tones, exfoliates and removes even the most stubborn waterproof makeup all in one step. Your skin will be transformed after just one use and will be noticeably more radiant with a smoother, refined texture. $50-$135 depending on size.

Jane Iredale PurePressed Base Mineral Foundation Jane Iredale’s PurePressed Base Mineral Foundation blurs the line between cosmetics and skin care. Jane Iredale uses the highest quality ingredients that allow the skin to breathe and function normally without clogging the pores or irritating the skin like traditional makeup. Its unique texture applies evenly and easily for long-lasting, highly pigmented coverage transforming even problem skin into an even, smooth complexion. $52

Bliss FatGirl SixPack Kick your New Years Resolution into high gear with FatGirl SixPack from Bliss. This award winning, targeted treatment contains a powerful blend of six active ingredients to assist in toning and firming your skin. They’re all delivered with a built-in nubbed, ab-activating applicator designed to massage the formula into your skin. Add FatGirl SixPack to your bod-bettering regimen to get one step closer to ‘ab’-solutely amazing results! $37

Clarisonic Smart Profile Smarter. Easier. More powerful. The next generation of Clarisonic is here..and it’s like nothing you’ve ever seen before. Introducing Smart Profile, which uses RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) technology to communicate between the brush head and device handle, creating a completely customizable cleansing experience. It is pre-programmed with specific protocols that send information to the device and instruct it how to operate for that specific brush head - automatically adjusting speed, frequency, cleansing time for different areas of the face, and even lets you know when its time to replace the brush head. The Smart Profile removes makeup 11 times better than cleansing with hands alone and it can also be used with the Turbo Massage Body Brush Head for a full body cleansing, exfoliating and sonic massage experience. All of this is yours for a mere $265.

L’Occitane’s Immortelle Divine Cream Get the skin you’ve always wanted this New Year. L’Occitane Divine Cream is an award winning “miracle” cream that helps to fight the visible signs of aging. This luxurious moisturizer is formulated with a blend of organic essential oils and natural active ingredients for anti-aging results that are unparalleled. Over time, your wrinkles become less visible and your skin feels firmer and more radiant. $106

Find all of these products and more at Pro Beauty.

Pro Beauty offers a curated selection of the world’s finest skin care, cosmetics, hair care, fragrance and bath and body products. In addition, our professionally trained beauty advisors will help you to find the best products for your specific needs.

Mention Calabasas Style Magazine to earn 20% back on all of your purchases. Some restrictions apply.

23375 Mulholland Drive Woodland Hills, CA 91364 - 818.222.0901 Next to VONS

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WINTER FASHIONS By fashion stylist Julie Waldorf

SHOP THIS TREND ››

faux fur jacket

sweater dress

mini skirt

PONCHO

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ANKLE BOOT

REVEALING SLITS

BLOUSE WITH BOWTIE

LEOPARD

FEDORA

WINTER FASHIONS Warm up your wardrobe.

OPAQUE TIGHTS

‹‹ STYLES OF THE SEASON

FUR VEST

FLOPPY HAT red nails

TURTLE NECK SWEATER TOTE BAG

SHAWL COLLAR COAT

LACE BOOT RED LIPS

Celebrity stylist Julie Waldorf has her finger on the fashion pulse and is perpetually ahead of the curve. She is widely renown for creating head-to-toe ensembles for her mega-watt star clients. Julie Waldorf: Celebrity Stylist juliewaldorf.com julie@juliewaldorf.com

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LovE By Sabrina Samedi

OU Y E V O L I

just another is y a D ’s e n believe Valenti re dedicated a ts r o ff e r Whether you u yo an all day where all a , y a d y holiday, we c r a k r in a llm ord a H a ne’s someone or e. Yes, Valenti v lo is y for a special a d e e theme for th We show our . d a le e th agree that th s e k ors. when love ta s, and neighb r e Day is a day tn r a p , s e v s, relati kisses and te la o c o h c love to friend a extr mally lves to a few e s r u o t we would nor a e m tr o h w We e s o . nerosity to th ely in the air it in f e d is even show ge e v strangers. Lo categorize as

ually ’s Day it is eq This Valentine ho that noring acknowledge important to st for couples ntine is not ju e l Va t in Sa of celebrate the spirit but a day to s, w ro ar ’s id struck by Cup ssion. Love is ve and compa lo of e nc se e people the es company, in th n ow ur yo in ies you adore, everywhere with, the hobb lf se ur yo nd quil spot you surrou ur secret tran yo e, m ho ll ca u e those the places yo omas. Embrac ar n he tc ki rite ing you joy and your favo people who br d an s ce en ri ymoments, expe celebrating an dedicated to is y da is th s. because relationship sides, not just where love re ve the Style we belie as as ab al C t A rget what “people will fo classic adage: t they hat you did, bu w or id sa u yo ade et how you m will never forg true. them feel”, is

We asked a few of our amazing readers what Valentine’ s Day means to them and how they lov e to celebrate an d this is what they had to offer on the subject: Hidden Hills resid ent reveals, “I’ve been married for 30 years and everyd ay that I wake up by my husband is a reason to say I love you. But I ge invested in Valen t tine’s Day for th e kids! I love ha another reason ving to dedicate quali ty time to the fa we usually do a m ilygame night with lots of chocolate for dinner. We skip the meal an d dive right into the dessert- it’s allow ed once a year!”

Bell Canyon resid ent shares, “I’m not big fan of Valentine’s Day but between ou r bu sy work scheules, my husband and I love to travel on ro ad trips. We usually try to pla n a mini vacatio n or weekend trip around the occa sion at a vineyar d for some wine ing, relaxation an tastd a chance to de plug from emails.” Not afraid to let his romantic an d soft-side shin Calabasas residen e, t explains, “I’ve alw ays enjoyed Valentine’s day for quality time with my love, enjoyin great date night ga out with a little entertainment.

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X O is in the air... dinner paired for a delicious up d se es dr t music to It’s fun to ge and soothing e in w of le tt d ce bo ith the gifts an with a really ni tle creative w lit a t ge to es e celebrate. I lik y that often go effort for a da ity al qu a ow a great time of really sh sounds, it’s also it as y rn co cebook wall unnoticed. As es on your Fa ur ct pi ng vi lo ns of lentines.” year to see to s and their va nd ie fr ur yo of with all I , “Ever since ader recounts re ge milla V co ke ng a baki Westla ’s Day means ne ti en al V , t before became a mom and I the nigh d an sb hu y een m et cupcakes petition betw take red velv to ve lo ds ki ates.” because our all their classm to school for tine’s Day es what Valen ar sh nt de si ’s day Agoura Hills re assic Valentine cl a r fo pe ci “My re ds, 1.5 hours means to her, f from the ki of t gh ni 1 sy s and tradition is ea 2 steak dinner s, al ci fa d an massage d don’t forget of a couples follow. Oh an to e gn pa am ch like.” 2 glasses of kisses as you y an m as on inkle the kisses! Spr

ot resident cann Woodland Hills plains, ex he Day as ’s ne ti en al V wait for chocolate cake t 2 pieces of ea to le ab out my “I am gging at me ab na e if w y m without holiday!” s my favorite It’ l. ro te es ol ch

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HUGS AND KIS SES

Here are some exciting and loc al suggestions if looking for somet you are hing creative an d memorable to do with your sweetheart on this day of lov e: Toast to anothe r year of celebra ting the true es sence of love with win e tasting and a picnic for two at The Stonehaus The night is youn g and the mood is set just right with a rom antic dinner at Riviera Italian Restaurant and Lounge. Let the spark of Cupid’s arrows take over the night or even last throughout the whole weekend with a staycation at th e Westlake Village Inn. It’s true what th ey say about co uples who sweat together, stay together. Jo in your lovebug for a day-time hike or bike ride an d add a little creativity to th e mix by exchan ging playlists you’ve made fo r one another. Give the person you love the gift of a wonderful Hot Stone massa relaxing ge from the skin an d bo dy experts at Ultim ate Skin to feel pampered and re juvenated! Release all inhibi tions and dance the night away to great tunes at Bogies Bar!

BE MINE

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Valentine

Gift ideas for your

ALL TRESSED UP BLOWDRY & BEAUTY BAR

Get all tressed up for your Valentine! Enjoy regular full face makeup, airbrushed makeup, a fabulous blowdry or even a stunning updo! Lash extensions and express smoothing blowdrys are also available. Perfect for bridal services, girls night out, or just because! Open 7 Days a week. 30750 Russell Ranch Rd., #F Westlake Village 818.735.9422 getalltressedup.com

Impressionist Portraits by Artist Lynn Gertenbach Give the gift of love with a beautiful custom portrait by Lynn Gertenbach – a local Calabasas Impressionist artist whose paintings and portraits are in the homes of celebrities, museums and enthusiastic collectors worldwide. Let her capture the essence of your loved one with a gift that will be cherished for years to come. 818.389.5516 lynngertenbachart.com lynngertenbach@aol.com

Eighteen Eight 18/8 Fine Men’s Salons An exceptional gift for every man: Going with 18/8’s Mantra “MAN AT HIS BEST”. Expertise in men’s grooming, hair care, MANicures, colour, waxing, skin and scalp treatments. Offering the best in men’s hair care products. Luxurious setting with TV lounge area, complimentary beverages and beer on tap. Gift cards and membership’s available for all services. The finest in men’s grooming. Westlake Plaza & Center 960 S. Westlake Bl., #7 Westlake VIllage 805.283.4000 EighteenEight.com

Calabasas Style

ULTIMATE SKIN DAY SPA Give someone you love the gift of a wonderful relaxing massage or facial from the skin and body experts at Ultimate Skin. Men, women and teens will feel pampered and rejuvenated with these specialty treatments that offer the best skin care products and techniques. Gift cards are available. Ultimate Skin Day Spa 22263 Mulholland Hwy. Calabasas 818.222.9797 ultimateskin.com

KATE & LACE LINGERIE AND SWIM

A.MARIE JEWELRY

Discover Kate & Lace Lingerie and Swim for that special Valentine’s Day gift that every woman will love. This new specialty boutique offers a delightful assortment of name-brand lingerie and swimwear that is soft and sexy and will make every woman feel beautiful on the inside and out.

Diamonds for your Valentine? This boho-chic line line is a style blogger fave. These pieces include diamonds, semiprecious stones and a 24 karat gold overlay. Visit the online store or the Calabasas showroom to get personally styled by the designer. Showroom by appointment only. To make an appointment, please contact info@amariejewelry.com or shop the line at amariejewelry.com

Kate & Lace Lingerie and Swim 2900 Townsgate Rd., #107 Westlake Village 805.370.5222 kateandlace.com

Showroom inside Harris & Co. 23911 Ventura Bl. Calabasas 818.222.2691 amariejewelry.com

Chocolats du CaliBressan

FLORENTYNA’S: A FINE FLOWER COMPANY

Those of you already familiar with “Le CaliBressan” from France can now enjoy Chef Jean-Michel’s delicious artisan chocolates created fresh right here in Santa Barbara. Jean-Michel’s creative culinary skills have earned him many accolades in magazines, brochures, and traveling guides from around the world! If you love fine chocolates and have a passion for discovering new flavors, order these chocolates online for your Valentine!

Florentyna’s is the premiere florist in Calabasas and uses an elite selection of the world’s most extraordinary fresh flowers and foliage for every arrangement. Designs range from European garden style arrangements to clean, sophisticated designs with exotic leaves, fruits and succulents. Let them design your perfect Valentine’s Day arrangement!

1114 State St., #25 La Arcada Santa Barbara 805.568.1313

4774 Park Granada, #1 Calabasas 818.222.2446 florentynasflowers.com

4193 Carpinteria Ave., #4 Carpinteria 805.684.6900 chococalibressan.com info@ChocoCaliBressan.com

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Valentine

Gift ideas for your CAP PRESENTS THE Joffrey Ballet Timeless Valentine’s gifting~ Tickets to The Joffrey Ballet, March 11, one night only, at The Civic Arts Plaza in Thousand Oaks! America’s premier ballet company will inspire the entire family. Act fast using code “Valentine” and receive a 20% discount on tickets purchased by February 14th! Box office open Tue-Sun, Noon - 5pm. Civic Arts Plaza 2100 E. Thousand Oaks Bl. Thousand Oaks 800.745.3000 CivicArtsPlaza.com

TK & CQ Nails

Everyone will appreciate the gift of receiving a beautiful manicure and pedicure for Valentine’s Day. It’s the perfect way to pamper the special person in your life so that they can be tingling from tips to toes. Just mention Calabasas Style to get a 12% discount! Gift cards available for purchase at both salon locations! Walk-in’s welcome. Open seven days a week! TK Nails 26527 Agoura Rd. Calabasas (next to Albertsons) 818.880.5148 CQ Nails 26500 Agoura Rd. Calabasas (next to Jack In The Box) 818.880.0499

Westlake Cyclery Gifts for the cycling enthusiast for Valentine’s Day and beyond. Visit Westlake Cyclery’s new location. Owner Mike Geiger and staff are knowledgeable and hands on. Specialty gear and bikes to suit every price range and age. Customize your trek with Project One. Parts, equipment, clothing, accessories, full service dept. M-F 10am-7pm, Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 10am-5pm. North Ranch Mall Shopping Center (Between Trader Joe’s and Ralph’s) 3835 E Thousand Oaks Bl., #K-N Westlake Village 805.497.3030 westlakecyclery.com

Calabasas Style

Westlake Culinary Institute Learn to cook with the one you love this Valentine’s Day or any day, at Westlake Culinary Institute! We offer classes for all levels, celebrity guest chefs, date nights and private events! You’ll love our artisan specialty foods, fine culinary equipment and personalized gift certificates. Our kitchen is your kitchen! Westlake Culinary Institute 4643 Lakeview Canyon Rd. Westlake Village westlakeculinaryinstitute.com 818.991.3940

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HEALTH CHECK A Special Guide to

Health & Well-Being We’ve all heard the expression that “without your health, you have nothing.” With this in mind, Calabasas Style would like to help guide you on your journey to health and well-being, offering the following resource guide to health and wellness options available to you and your family. While we do what we can to be as healthconscious as possible, there are so many elements to a healthy lifestyle that we have to remember we’re always a work in progress, but the start of a new year is a great time to get to work! Check in with your primary physicians and health care providers. The risk of developing cancer, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, kidney disease, or even dementia is ever present. The good news is that many of these conditions can be prevented if diagnosed or treated in the early stages. Many of us have acquired “bad habits” with unhealthy addictions to tobacco, nicotine, alcohol, sugar, caffeine, and other harmful substances. If you’re ready to change, there are many programs and resources available. We’ve also provided ways that you and your loved ones can eliminate stress, fatigue, and sleep disorders in order to obtain optimum health and wellness. Also, take a look at our list of clinics and facilities to help you through pregnancy, menopause, and other life stages affecting your health and well-being, as well as a list of doctors and physicians who can help you look and feel your best.

Calabasas Style

WEST HILLS HOSPITAL & MEDICAL CENTER Douglas Long President and Chief Executive Officer 7300 Medical Center Dr. West Hills 818.676.4000 westhillshospital.com West Hills Hospital & Medical Center is one of the valuable resources available in our community. Its “Quality Care, Close to Home” is a well-documented fact that impacts the quality of life for people who reside in the western part of the San Fernando Valley. Ranked among the top hospitals in Los Angeles County for heart attack treatment response, West Hills Hospital is the first accredited chest pain center in Los Angeles. The medical center is also designated as an advanced stroke center and accredited by the Joint Commission. The hospital is ranked among the top ten in the nation for women’s health due to their state-of-the-art women’s diagnostic center and level-two neonatal intensive care unit. West Hills Hospital is also home to the renowned Grossman Burn Center. West Hills’ emergency department is available to the community 24/7 and has a 30-bed emergency heart attack receiving center. For average wait times for the ER, use your phone or computer to text ER to 23000. For more information, visit texterhelp.com. The hospital recently completed its new, permanent, helicopter landing pad that sits atop the expanded emergency room, making efficient transport services available for the region’s burn patients and others who are critically injured. West Hills has been voted “Readers’ Choice” in the Los Angeles Daily News for three years in a row, proving that you don’t have to leave the Valley for expert medical care.

VANTAGE ONCOLOGY Sumita Bhatia, MD Henry Yampolsky, MD 7301 Medical Center Dr., #100 West Hills 818.884.1683 westhillsradiationoncology.com The Vantage Oncology Center offers quality, personalized cancer care in our community, allowing patients to stay close to home and family. The spa-like environment and compassionate team of caregivers provides world-class cancer treatment and comfort without the stress of lengthy commutes during your treatment. The Vantage Oncology Cancer Center boasts comparable equipment and technology to leading academic centers, including RapidArc®, a radiotherapy technology that delivers a precisely sculpted 3D dose with a 360-degree rotation. This technology is a major advancement in targeting the tumor while preserving normal tissues. Dr. Henry Yampolsky is a USC-trained, boardcertified radiation oncologist who designed and participated in clinical trials investigating novel cancer treatments. He has extensive clinical experience applying advanced technology to cancer treatments for prostate, head and neck, and rectal cancers. His expertise also includes stereotactic ablative radiosurgery for brain, lung, and liver tumors. He is one of only a few Russianspeaking radiation oncologists in the U.S. Dr. Sumita Bhatia is a Mayo Clinic-trained, board-certified radiation oncologist and the medical director at West Hills. She is one of the few female radiation oncologists in the West Valley and has affiliations with UCLA and MD Anderson Cancer Center. Dr. Bhatia has extensive experience in various cancers, including gastrointestinal malignancies, breast, and gynecologic cancers. She has interests in holistic medicine and speaks Hindi. Vantage Oncology is a cancer-care network of more than 60 community cancer-treatment centers in 14 states in the U.S. You would go anywhere for world-class cancer treatment. It’s nice to know you don’t have to go far.

Southern California Sinus Institute Alen Cohen, MD, FACS 7345 Medical Center Dr., #510 West Hills 818.888.7878 socalsinus.com

Plastic Surgery Institute of Southern California Edward O. Terino, MD 28047 Dorothy Dr. Agoura Hills 818.991.6226 terinomd.com

MOUNTAIN VIEW DENTISTRY Jeffrey Schechter, DDS 26560 Agoura Rd., #102 Calabasas 818.880.4023 forabeautifulsmile.com

Anyone who has suffered through the pain and discomfort of severe sinus infections knows just how debilitating they can be. The good news is that these conditions are not just treatable but actually curable now.

Dr. Edward O. Terino is a world famous plastic surgeon who has served the reconstructive and aesthetic needs of patients for over 20 years. He was voted “Best Plastic Surgeon In LA” in 2012, 2013, and 2014 by the Los Angeles Daily News. Although many of Dr. Terino’s patients are from California, most travel from other states and countries.

Dr. Jeffrey Schechter is the Calabasas and Agoura Hills dentist people trust for the health of their teeth, gums, and body. The primary goal at Mountain View Dentistry is to get your teeth and gums to their healthiest state as quickly and gently as possible. Whether you are looking for preventative dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, implants, or other restorative procedures, Mountain View Dentistry provides the expertise and noninvasive techniques needed.

Dr. Alen Cohen is a board-certified nose and sinus surgeon and assistant clinical professor of surgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. He is also the founder and director of the Southern California Sinus Institute (SCSI), which has become one of the premier sinus centers in Los Angeles and Southern California. Thousands of patients have benefitted from Dr. Cohen’s lifechanging procedures, which include the medical and surgical treatment of patients with all nasal and sinus disorders, including nasal obstruction, deviated septum, environmental allergies, acute and chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, and sinus headaches. One of the most common procedures Dr. Cohen routinely performs is the revolutionary, in-office Balloon Sinuplasty™ procedure, for which he is one of the top three performers on the West Coast. This amazing procedure dilates the sinus openings with a balloon (just like opening a clogged artery around the heart) so the sinuses can drain and the person can breathe better, without headaches and recurrent infections. Dr. Cohen has also personally pioneered a breakthrough procedure in the treatment of more-advanced, chronic sinusitis; deviated septa; nasal polyps; and sinus headaches called Minimally Invasive Image-Guided Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (MIGSS™). As such, patients routinely come to him from all over Southern California for management of their chronic nose and sinus problems for definitive relief.

Dr. Terino is not only world renowned for his accomplishments as a plastic surgery practitioner, but also as an innovator in the specialized new techniques of threedimensional facial contouring. He is a pioneer of the latest upper and midface vertical lifting and suspension technology, which he calls “Somme Lift.” He also designed and patented natural-looking facial implants, which provide solutions for flat cheeks, small jaw lines, and weak facial contours. He has authored two textbooks and chapters to 22 others and has presented over 500 lectures worldwide. A graduate of Amherst College and Yale University, Dr. Terino brings a unique combination of art and surgical technique to his practice. Dr. Terino is a certified Diplomat of the American Board of Plastic Surgery and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He serves on the teaching staffs of several universities, including Yale, UNC, UCLA, USC, Stanford, NYU, and UC Irvine. Dr. Terino was awarded the Humanitarian of the Year Award from U.S. News & World Report for his voluntary work at the Albert Schweitzer Hospital in Haiti and in Central and South America, helping impoverished and deformed children. Dr. Terino was recently honored with the “Traveling Professor” award from the prestigious American Society for Aesthetic Surgery.

Dr. Schechter focuses on preventative dentistry, which he believes can save you from a considerable amount of costly oral health issues over time. He and his staff use the most current technology, equipment, and techniques to make your treatment as healthy, safe, and stress-free as possible. These include digital x-rays to greatly reduce radiation exposure, dental lasers, and digital photography. Dr. Schechter also specializes in using non-toxic, tooth-colored fillings instead of mercury-containing, silveramalgam fillings. Dr. Schechter received his Bachelor of Science degree in biology from the University of California at Berkeley and then his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University Of Southern California School of Dentistry in 1983. He and his friendly team have practiced general and cosmetic dentistry and the art of creating beautiful smiles for over 30 years. Dr. Schechter is a member of the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association, and the San Fernando Dental Society.

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VIRELLA NEUROSURGERY Complex Spine & Brain Specialists Anthony Virella, MD, FACS 32144 Agoura Rd., #220 Westlake Village 805.449.0088 dr-virella.com Dr. Anthony Virella is a board-certified, fellowship-trained neurological spine surgeon with advanced training in the management of complex spinal disorders. Dr. Virella treats a wide variety of spinal and cerebral disorders, including spinal tumors, herniated discs, sciatica, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, and spinal fractures. He also treats spinal instability disorders that can occur from disease. Dr. Virella is also a specialist in gamma knife stereotiactic radiosurgery. Dr. Virella is also a nationally recognized specialist in minimally invasive spinal surgery. Thanks to his unique approach, many procedures can be performed using an incision of less than an inch, allowing patients to recover far more quickly than traditional spinal surgery and eliminating the need for a multiple-night hospital stay. In fact, most procedures are performed on an outpatient basis with patients returning home the same day. Dr. Virella’s goal for all patients is that they return to an active and healthy lifestyle without restriction or pain. Dr. Virella attended medical school at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons and is a graduate of the UCLA Neurosurgery Residency Program. Dr. Virella completed his complex spine in-folding resident fellowship at the worldrenowned Cleveland Clinic Foundation with Dr. Edward C. Benzel, MD. Additionally, Dr. Virella completed a second fellowship in minimally invasive spine surgery at the UCLA Comprehensive Spine Center. Dr. Virella has offices in Westlake Village, Simi Valley, and Valencia.

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The Orthopaedic Rehabilitation & Sports Medicine Centers Thomas Reed, DPT 19730 Ventura Bl., #104 Woodland Hills 818.710.0161 7232 Van Nuys Bl., #203 Van Nuys 818.786.9012 ortho-rehab.com The Orthopaedic Rehabilitation & Sports Medicine Centers has two locations: Woodland Hills and Van Nuys. Both centers provide comprehensive physical therapy and rehabilitation services emphasizing on orthopaedic conditions, including post-surgical care for extremity and spinal conditions and post-fracture care. The Woodland Hills center offers aquatic therapy, which is especially beneficial in the initial stages of the rehabilitation process after surgeries and for conditions including osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, and the dysfunction related to chronic pain and stiff joints. The warm aquatic therapy relaxes muscles and joints and abates pain due to the buoyancy and even resistance placed on the tissues. The aquatic therapy pool is staffed with a dedicated aquatic specialist who works directly with patients in to guide the rehab progression Dr. Thomas Reed, DPT, manages both centers and has been in private practice in the San Fernando Valley for over 30 years after earning his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Boston University. Dr. Reed evaluates each patient’s condition and recommendations for treatment. He supervises all treatment and progression plans with the patients, physical therapists and treatment team. The centers are Medicare certified and are on most PPO and Workers’ Compensation insurance panels. Additionally, the centers educate patients about Kangen Water -- a high alkaline, anti-oxidizing and micro-clustered water for complete hydration. Medical conditions may be improved from drinking Kangen Water and the Woodland Hills center offers complimentary 30-day sampling.

Hear Clear Hearing Aids, Inc. Iris Stone, MA, CCC-A, FAAA Jerome Vener, MD, FACS 4764 Park Granada, #109 Calabasas 7345 Medical Center Dr., #511 West Hills 818.222.HEAR (4327) hearclearhearingaids.com Dr. Jerome Vener, M.D., F.A.C.S, and audiologist Iris Stone, MA, CCC-A, FAAA, have come together to form Hear Clear Hearing Aids, Inc. This is a unique model, and the first program in the area to combine the expertise of a board-certified ear, nose, and throat physician licensed in hearing aid dispensing and a certified dispensing audiologist specializing in hearing aid fittings and tinnitus management. Their expertise combines the medical expertise of a physician and the knowledge of an audiologist to offer you the best care, advice, and service a hearing facility can offer. Dr. Vener and Iris Stone chose to open Hear Clear Hearing Aids to help people not only regain their hearing but to help people avoid the isolation, confusion, and disconnection when hearing loss occurs. Hear Clear Hearing Aids has perfected the art and science to restore a person’s hearing almost 100 percent, through proper diagnoses and expertly fitted and state-of-the-art hearing aid devices. Customers appreciate that Hear Clear can match or beat all prices and genuinely appreciate the level of medical and professional services this company provides. Hear Clear Hearing Aids, Inc. has audiology and hearing aid centers in Calabasas and West Hills and just recently opened offices in Camarillo and Ojai. They are dedicated to determining the best hearing-loss solution to fit each person’s budget and lifestyle. In addition, they offer ongoing services that include counseling, periodic adjustments, and regular hearing aid cleanings, which are vital in maintaining optimum hearing restoration and success.

Bella Skin Institute Anna Guanche, MD 23622 Calabasas Rd., #339 Calabasas 818.225.0117 bellaskininstitute.com Dr. Anna Guanche, M.D., is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon specializing in cosmetic procedures with excellent results and minimal downtime. Dr. Guanche has assembled her dream “derm” team of professionals at the Bella Skin Institute in Calabasas to care for the concerns of celebrities, CEOs, and supermoms. The state-ofthe-art Bella Skin Institute facility, with its warm and engaging design, provides clients with the newest, most innovative procedures available to create perfect skin. The Bella Skin Institute is dedicated to combining medical science with cosmetic beauty technique, providing each client with customized treatments to meet their needs, from dermatology services to minimally invasive cosmetic procedures. Dr. Guanche uses a tumescent anesthesia for all procedures so patients are never placed under full general anesthesia. Procedures offered at Bella Skin Institute include resurfacing; hair removal; Fraxel™ and other laser therapies; facial and body peels, including dermasanding for acne scars; Thermage™; mini “S” lifts; blepharoplasty; liposuction; and the latest injectables for wrinkle removal. Aesthetic services include microdermabrasion, dermalinfusion, dermaplaning, facials, and waxing. General dermatology services include skin cancer screening and surgery and care for acne, rashes, and eczema. Dr. Guanche is a fellow of the American Board of Dermatology and a member of the dermatology staff at UCLA Medical Center. She is also a clinical instructor for UCLA’s David Geffen School of Medicine. Dr. Guanche and her staff approach their work with infectious joy and enthusiasm, which can be felt throughout the practice.

BALANCE TREATMENT CENTER Mental Health Rehabilitation Center and Intensive Outpatient Program Ronald D. Sager, MD 4505 Las Virgenes Rd., #202 Calabasas 855.414.8100 balancetreatmentcenter.com The Balance Treatment Center is a private, licensed, mental health rehabilitation center with locations in Calabasas and Malibu. Their goal is to treat clients struggling with a variety of emotional and psychological issues, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, PTSD, and dual-diagnosis and substance-abuse issues. Medical Director and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Ronald D. Sager created his unique private practice based on the belief that there are four areas in one’s life -- emotional, physical, social, and educational -- that play a critical role in the development of positive, productive, and stable experiences. His programs help to strengthen and balance these areas by identifying the root of destructive, inefficient lifestyles, which lead to damaged relationships, careers, and problematic behaviors. Dr. Sager and his team of licensed doctors, nurses, and therapists utilize proven, evidencebased treatment modalities and a non-12step approach to substance abuse issues to help each client live a life free from the struggle of mental health disabilities or other addictive behaviors. The Balance Treatment Center in Malibu is the only private six-bed mental health facility in the state of California, and the Calabasas office offers intensive outpatient programs and counseling. Dr. Sager is a member of the American Medical Association and the American Psychiatric Association and also holds multiple certifications in psychiatry, psychoanalysis, addiction psychiatry, and child psychiatry from the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He was awarded Best in Treatment by Psychology Today and Leading Physicians of the World.

Southern California Orthopedic Institute Carlos Guanche, MD 6815 Noble Ave. Van Nuys 818.901.6600 carlosguanchemd.com Carlos Guanche, M.D., is a world-renown expert in hip and shoulder arthroscopy as well as complex shoulder reconstruction. Over the past 20 years, he has treated thousands of patients whose professional lives depend on his skilled hands to bring them back from debilitating injury to center stage and court. Faced with career-threatening conditions, professional athletes and world-famous entertainers have entrusted their well-being to Dr. Guanche. The majority of his patients, however, are average people, working a regular job and participating in sports at many levels. Dr. Guanche has been a partner at the Southern California Orthopedic Institute, a tertiary referral center for complex sports medicine and shoulder problems, since 2003. He has devoted his career to his patients by constantly striving to innovate and make procedures less invasive, with smaller incisions, less pain, and shorter downtime. He is committed to advancing his field of specialty and has two orthopedicdevice patents to his name. He has also trained medical students and resident doctors in sports medicine and arthroscopy procedures. He also is the instructional course director at the prestigious Orthopaedic Learning Center in Chicago, as well as the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgery. Dr. Guanche specializes in the treatment of hip and shoulder injuries, including labral repairs, femoroacetabular impingement, hamstring repairs, rotator cuff repairs, and the management of arthritis of the shoulder. He is one of only a small group of surgeons in the country who perform reverse total shoulders on a regular basis.

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Calabasas DENTAL SPA Tania Baker, DDS 4937 Las Virgenes Rd.,#203 Calabasas 818.880.5520 calabasasdentalspa.com

Calwest Head & Neck Surgical Institute Marc Kerner, MD, FACS 696 Hampshire Rd., #110 Westlake Village 818.349.0600 calwestent.com

Tania Baker, DDS, will not only change the way you feel about going to the dentist, but she will change the way you feel about your smile. With more than 30 years of clinical experience, Dr. Baker has a unique way of making you feel important and cared for.

The Calwest Head & Neck Surgical Institute is the premiere center of excellence for comprehensive head and neck medical and surgical problems in Southern California. All of the surgeons are board certified and fellows of the American College of Surgeons. They treat a wide variety of ear, nose, and throat disorders and excel in delivering the highest level of surgical care in head and neck surgery, facial plastic surgery, spine surgery, and pain management. The institute also offers comprehensive medical and surgical care, including outpatient surgery and in-office CT scanning.

Dr. Baker graduated in 1980 from a prestigious academy of dental medicine in Europe and spent a few years teaching before moving to California with her family in 1984. Here, Dr. Baker successfully established her professional credentials and received her dental degree at Loma Linda University in 1990. Her unique, genuine style and holistic approach to creating beautiful smiles comes through in everything she does, from providing preventive and family dentistry to offering the most advanced aesthetic care in full-mouth reconstruction cases and smile makeovers. Dr. Baker understands that going to the dentist is probably not on your list of favorite things to do. That is why she has created a dental practice with a delightful balance of high-quality dentistry and spa pampering. Dr. Baker wants you to love your new smile and enjoy the process. With a true artist’s passion, Dr. Baker has created an environment where anyone who walks through her doors can have an amazing and life-enhancing experience. When you come to Calabasas Dental Spa, you can expect a welcoming staff, a guiltfree environment, and the most advanced dental care available today, including lasers, digital and infrared diagnostics, and CAD-CAM technology.

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SUNDER PLASTIC SURGery Sarmela Sunder, MD 16311 Ventura Bl., #600 Encino 818.501.3223 (FACE) Ruth Swissa Spa 29020 Agoura Rd. Agoura Hills 818.735.8818 Dr. Sarmela Sunder is a double board-certified and fellowship-trained surgeon specializing in facial plastic surgery and has dedicated years of training to the face and neck. This, combined with her innate sense for aesthetics, gives her a distinctive approach to patient counseling. Additionally, Dr. Sunder represents a woman’s perspective, offering her patients a unique experience. Dr. Sunder received dual degrees at John Hopkins University and continued her education at Cornell Medical College, spending years doing research and publishing several articles in leading scientific journals. She completed her residency program and internship at Stanford University, culminating in service as Chief Resident. During her residency, she trained under the mentorship of a pioneer in rhinoplasty and facelift techniques, as well as a former president of both the American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery and the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. She continued her training with a specialized fellowship under the mentorship of an internationally renowned facial plastic surgeon.

The team is led by Medical Director Marc Kerner, MD, FACS. Dr. Kerner is double board certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology -- Head and Neck Surgery and is one of only 850 surgeons to have achieved this distinction. Dr. Kerner developed a number of cuttingedge surgical techniques and instruments in his field. He was the first to use computeraided, image-guided technology for sinus surgery in Southern California and was the first to introduce powered instrumentation in sinus surgery to UCLA and the community and balloon sinus technology. He also introduced Dr. Sunder merged her artistic talents with her platelet gel technology in maxillofacial and passion for medicine to become one of the facial plastic surgery. most renowned facial plastic surgeons in the nation, lecturing at conferences nationwide. Dr. Dr. Kerner is a clinical professor of surgery Sunder and her team are dedicated to guiding at Geffen-UCLA School of Medicine and patients through their elected procedure, Adjunct Professor of Communication from the decision-making process through the Sciences at California State University, treatment to the recovery process and beyond. Northridge. He is Director of Head and Neck Her knowledge of the most innovative medical Cancer Surgery at Northridge Hospital and is technologies enables her to offer more-precise on the Head and Neck Tumor Board. and less-invasive techniques that yield more natural-looking results.

CARDIOLOGY Raluca Arimie, MD 7325 Medical Center Dr., #306 West Hills 18350 Roscoe Bl., #600 Northridge 818.710.8045 Dr. Raluca Arimie is an interventional cardiologist and specialist in cardiovascular disease and is affiliated with multiple hospitals in the area, including West Hills Hospital and Medical Center and Northridge Hospital Medical Center. She received her medical degree in Europe at the Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy and has been in practice for 13 years. Her specialty is working with patients who have been diagnosed with coronary heart disease, a condition that is the number-one killer of both men and women in the United States.

VITALITY INSTITUTE OF AGOURA Michael Sarti, MD 5015 Cornell Rd., #D Agoura Hills 818.735.0904 vitalityinstituteofagoura.com

TRILLIUM SPORTS MEDICINE Michael A. Spagnoli, DC 23693 Calabasas Rd. Calabasas 818.225.5900 trilliumsportsmedicine.com

Dr. Michael Sarti is a board-certified physician, specializing in emergency medicine and laser skin treatments. After 28 years of serving as the medical director of one of L.A.’s busiest trauma centers, he established the Vitality Institute of Agoura in 2012 to cultivate his other career passion, aesthetic medicine.

Dr. Michael A. Spagnoli is a chiropractic physician who has dedicated his life to helping people get well and stay well. Having pioneered the concept of multi-disciplinary, integrated health care nearly 25 years ago, he and the staff at Trillium Sports Medicine help patients attain optimum health through a comprehensive scope of services and treatment alternatives.

The Vitality Institute of Agoura is a laser-only medical spa, offering top-of-the-line laser treatments to individuals of all colors and skin types. They specialize in laser skincare treatments such as fractional CO2 laser resurfacing, acne laser treatments, laser hair removal for all skin types, laser tattoo removal for all colors, and sun damage and red face repair. In addition, Dr. Sarti offers several types of premier laser fat removal and body sculpting techniques, including VANQUISH, Exilis Elite, and LIPOSONIX. All of these procedures are done on the premises, utilizing prescribed pharmacological combinations at the time of service, if needed. All of these treatments are non-invasive, and patients typically resume normal activities immediately after a procedure.

Dr. Arimie is also a specialist in women’s heart disease, which affects one in four women in the U.S. Although heart disease is often thought of as a problem for men, more women than men die of heart disease each year. The challenge is that most heart disease symptoms in women may be different from those in men, who may not have heart attack symptoms related to chest pain. Women with heart disease often experience symptoms such as neck, jaw, shoulder, upperback or abdominal discomfort; shortness of Dr. Sarti considers your path to a healthier breath; right-arm pain; nausea or vomiting; and smoother complexion and your fat-loss sweating; lightheadedness or dizziness; or objectives a journey that you embark on unusual fatigue. together. Dr. Sarti and his staff will work with you individually to establish a treatment Dr. Arimie’s goal is to work with and educate plan that suits your desired outcome, your her female patients on how to prevent time frame, and your budget. Your progress heart disease. This is especially important will systematically be monitored with the for women who have diabetes, postCanfield VISIA camera system so you can see menopausal women, and women with the visible results after each treatment. At the metabolic syndromes, such as fat around Vitality Institute of Agoura, you can expect the abdomen, high blood pressure, high professionalism, friendly service, and results! blood sugar, and high triglycerides, which have a greater impact on developing heart disease in women than in men.

Trillium Sports Medicine offers the most comprehensive services available for the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal joint dysfunction and other ailments. They use only the latest modalities to ensure that patients are receiving the appropriate care to speed their recovery time and allow them to return to a normal lifestyle. The highly qualified staff works closely together to integrate the treatment with a wide range of disciplines and services for optimum effectiveness, including chiropractic treatments, physical therapy, acupuncture, massage therapy, posture improvement, LiteCure LCT-1000 deep tissue laser therapy, brain training, nutrition and weight loss, referrals for MRI, xrays, blood profiles, and custom orthotics. Dr. Michael A. Spagnoli opened his first office in Connecticut in 1987 and has pioneered multi-disciplinary, integrated health clinics in Massachusetts, Connecticut, and California. He earned his undergraduate degree at Southern Connecticut University and his Doctor of Chiropractic degree at the prestigious National College of Chiropractic Medicine in Chicago, Illinois. Dr. Spagnoli is a member of the California Chiropractic Association and the American Chiropractic Association and a diplomat of the American College of Sports Medicine. Known as the community’s premier “Posture Doctor,” he has treated numerous elite athletes and celebrities as well as thousands of patients in the area.

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Calabasas Orthodontics Stuart J. Hoffman, DMD, MS Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics 4764 Park Granada, #104 Calabasas 818.222.0090 forbraces.com

Silverado Calabasas Memory Care Community David H. Stern, MD 25100 Calabasas Rd. Calabasas 818.222.1000 silveradocare.com

BALANCE, VARIETY, MODERATION, RDN Aaron Flores, RDN 23480 Park Sorrento, #111A Calabasas 818.851.1414 bvmrd.com

Chances are if you have children seven years or older, you have already met Dr. Stuart Hoffman, also known as the “Braces Doctor” of Calabasas. This is because kids with suspected tooth troubles are usually referred to an orthodontist around their seventh birthday, when they have all their primary (“baby”) teeth and their adult teeth begin their descent.

Silverado’s Calabasas Memory Care Community combines clinical expertise with engaging social programs designed for individuals with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Lewy body, and other types of dementia. The community’s bright, lively atmosphere allows residents to remain social while enjoying the things that were important to them before their diagnosis.

Aaron Flores is a registered dietitian nutritionist RDN) whose focus is on Intuitive Eating and Health at Every Size® principles. These are two non-diet approaches for improving health. His work helps clients change their relationship with food as they learn not just what to eat but why to eat it.

Dr. Hoffman has lived and practiced in the Calabasas area for the past 23 years and has been professionally, personally, and civilly involved in the Calabasas, Agoura, and West San Fernando Valley communities since he opened his practice. His philosophy in practicing orthodontics is to deliver the highest quality treatment in a state-of-the-art atmosphere while maintaining the personal attention so many other offices do not deliver.

Silverado’s highly trained, extensively screened staff provides an experience focused as much on mind and spirit as on body. From residents in the early stages of memory impairment to those needing a higher level of dementia care, providing the best health, comfort, and dignity possible is Silverado’s guiding principle. The community provides engagement programs tailored to residents’ functional level to build self-esteem and enhance quality of life.

Many orthodontist offices today are run “clinic” style, where the orthodontist simply “supervises” orthodontic assistants in order to cram in more patients. Dr. Hoffman believes that privatepractice orthodontics must include “handson” treatment by the orthodontist and that an office should be open full time to provide continuity of care to accommodate patients and their parents’ busy lifestyles.

This single-story community resides on a large lot with secure, walking paths and gardens to encourage residents to maintain strength and balance while fostering a sense of independence. As the only memory care provider to consistently track clinical outcomes for almost two decades, Silverado is a leader in memory care. Silverado’s medical director, David H. Stern, returned to UCLA Medical Center after 30 years as an internist and gastroenterologist in private practice to become a specialist in the practice of geriatric medicine. He attended Columbia College and then SUNY Downstate Medical School. He is board certified in internal medicine, gastroenterology, and geriatric medicine. Dr. Stern is also the medical director of S+AGE, the specialized, ambulatory geriatric evaluation clinic that specializes in the care of the frail elderly, and is a clinical Instructor at the UCLA Department of Medicine’s geriatric division.

Dr. Hoffman received his Doctor of Medical Dentistry (DMD) degree at the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Dental Medicine and received his specialty training in advanced orthodontics from the Ostrow School of Dentistry at USC. During his tenure at USC, Dr. Hoffman also received his master’s degree in craniofacial biology while publishing his master’s thesis. He has taught at the Clinical Instructor Division of Orthodontics at USC for the past 10 years.

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If you’ve tried every new diet but never seem to get the results you want, then Aaron is the dietitian for you. His slogan, “You didn’t fail the diet, the diet failed you,” epitomizes his approach to nutrition. He has worked with hundreds of patients who learned the hard way that diets just don’t work. If you’ve tried low-carb, low-fat, clean-eating, gluten-free, vegan, or paleo diets with no results, it may be time to break the diet cycle for good. Aaron eliminates the “diet dogma” by teaching you to listen to the best guide for your nutrition and eating needs: you. He helps you understand your hunger cues so you can learn to eat when you’re hungry and stop when you’re satiated. Whether you struggle with binge eating, eating disorders, or yo-yo dieting, Aaron gives you the tools to make necessary changes in your behavior so you feel safe, comfortable, and reconnected to the pleasure that is eating to live, not living to eat. Say goodbye to dieting and hello to healthy living with Aaron Flores. Aaron works with adults, teens, and families.

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Skinteresting VERY

Surprising discoveries in skin health By Anna D. Guanche, MD

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he skin is fascinating. Not only is it the largest organ in the body, but it is constantly being shed and replaced. Every 40 days or so, we get a whole new five layers. It is estimated that 50 percent of dust consists of shed skin cells. Besides keeping the outside out and the inside in, the skin is teeming with blood vessels to regulate our temperature and nerves to let us know what is going on — pressure, heat, and so on — as well as a complex immune system to protect against ever-present bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Plus, it turns out that the skin is even more complex than we realize, and we are discovering new, interesting, and unbelievable findings about it. We know that the skin communicates. Yellow means something’s wrong with the liver (or you are eating too many carrots!). Red reveals that you are embarrassed or overheated, among other things. A pale color can mean you are about to pass out. When your brow moistens ever so slightly and your pulse races, emotion is betrayed. But can the skin tell you more? What is the connection between ear creases and heart disease, left arm moles and breast cancer, Viagra use and melanoma? Can your skin directly detect smell? It turns out there are interesting new discoveries that can give us clues about our health and aid in treatment and prevention.

Skin Can Smell Your nose isn’t the only part of your body capable of taking a whiff. In the past decade, scientists have discovered olfactory (scent) receptors lingering in strange places — in sperm, in the spine, in the prostate gland, and even in the kidneys. Now, researchers in Germany have identified scent receptors somewhere much more accessible: the skin. What’s more is that these receptors appear to be involved in turning on and off gene expression. This is important because when the receptors are stimulated or blocked, body processes can be controlled. Blocking these receptors may block unwanted processes, while stimulating them can encourage desired outcomes. One study showed a 35-percent increase in collagen production by skin cells bathed in a specific scent. Hopefully, this discovery will be harnessed in a positive way in order to aid in collagen production and wound healing.

Viagra and Melanoma What does a sexual enhancement or erectile dysfunction drug have to do with skin cancer? A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that men who used the erection-enhancing drug sildenafil (Viagra) were 84 percent more likely to develop melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer, over a period of 10 years. The study grew out of laboratory research on how Viagra acts on cell-to-

cell signaling pathways. This work demonstrated that the drug mimics key parts of a process that lets melanoma cells spread to other parts of the body. Skin cancer that spreads (metastasizes) is hard to control and can end in death. To clarify, 4.3 of every 1,000 who didn’t take Viagra developed melanoma compared to 8.6 of every 1,000 men who took Viagra. The key for individuals who use this drug is to avoid other triggering factors such as excessive UV exposure, to do body self-exams, and to get skin checks regularly. Men often must rely on their partners to observe mole changes. One study found that 68 percent of melanomas on men were discovered by women whereas zero percent of the melanomas on women were discovered by their male counterpart!

Left-Arm Moles and Breast Health The number of moles a woman has on her left arm may be tied to her risk of developing breast cancer, according to two new studies. The studies don’t prove that moles cause breast cancer or that women with a lot of moles will definitely get breast cancer. Instead, they suggest there may be a genetic or hormonal link between the two. For the studies, the researchers examined data from two cohorts -- the Nurses’ Health Study that followed 74,523 female nurses for 24 years, and the E3N Teachers’ Study Cohort that observed 89,902 women for 18 years. In the Nurses’ Health Study, researchers asked participants to report the number of nevi >3mm on their left arm. Researchers found that women with 15 moles on their left arm were 35 percent more likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer than those who reported no moles. Individuals with more than 15 moles on their left arm should not panic. They should simply be armed with this information and consistently do breast self-exams, annual checkups, and mammograms.

Ear Creases and Cardiovascular Disease

It’s not entirely clear why these traits are associated with certain increased cardiovascular risks, and it’s not yet known how to counteract these increased risks. But if you have this trait, it probably wouldn’t hurt to check with your doctor. Most likely, he or she will conduct further tests to determine your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and other risk factors and consult you about making more aggressive lifestyle changes, even if you’re already eating some healthy foods and exercising a little. It’s possible that you’ll need to make more of an effort than most people to protect your heart health. The skin speaks to us daily about how we feel — cold, hot, nervous, or even itchy. But if we can learn to understand its intricate language, we can see that it can say more than a simple blush or blanch. Armed with knowledge, we now know to count left-armed moles and look for ear creases. It does seem unbelievable, but with this information, we can engage in monitoring and prevention in order to protect our health. Those who use Viagra can check their moles more carefully, more frequently. And on the horizon, we may see scents used on the skin to elicit desired outcomes. We will go back to our roots -- no pun intended! With the New Year upon us, it is a great time to take stock of what is going on in our bodies with a simple glance in the mirror. And then, we must commit to follow up on any signs. Do body self-exams, breast self-exams (if applicable), and make sure you are monitoring your health in an informed, directed, empowered way. Cheers! Here’s to a fabulous, healthy 2015! n

The statements in this article are for general informational purposes only and do not substitute for individual medical advice. Dr. Guanche is not a consultant for, nor receives consulting fees or compensation from, any of the product or device companies mentioned in this article.

What does the skin on your ear have to do with heart disease? Multiple studies show that a diagonal earlobe crease is a potential indicator of coronary artery disease. This crease is called “Frank’s sign,” after the lead author of the original study. While a “normal” earlobe is smooth, an earlobe with a crease has a fold, straight line, or wrinkle that appears to cut the earlobe in half. Could such a small mark on your ear really have anything to do with heart disease? Yes. A cardiovascular cause of demise was present in 73 percent of people with and 45 percent of people without diagonal creases.

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StopOnto Clenching Your Stress By Dr. Jeffrey Schechter, DDS

arbara was referred to my practice by a longtime patient. She complained of frequent dull headaches, TMJ pain, “tiredness” behind the eyes, sleep interruptions, and an overall sense of fatigue.

I asked Barbara if she had been “grinding” her teeth at night or in the daytime. “As a matter of fact,” she replied, “my husband mentioned that I grind my teeth at night, and sometimes, I catch myself grinding and clenching my teeth in the car while I’m stuck in traffic and frequently at the office.” After hearing this, we conducted a thorough dental examination, supported by digital (non-xray) photography, which revealed clinical evidence of irregular facets of tooth wear, gum tenderness, and micro-fractures in her teeth. At that point, the extent of Barbara’s underlying issues became clear, as did the treatment plan needed to give her relief from her pain and discomfort. Barbara’s condition -- called bruxism, the scientific name for teeth grinding and clenching -- is, unfortunately, very common. One notable survey estimates that 8 percent of adults grind their teeth at night and 20 percent grind and clench during waking hours. Other studies have shown that more than a third of parents report symptoms of teeth grinding in their children. Most people, however, only clench and grind from time to time, and this occasional grinding does not usually cause harm. It is the persistent and ongoing teeth clenching and grinding that can cause significant dental and medical problems, such as headaches, loose or fractured teeth, hearing loss, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain, and even visible changes in the appearance of the face. In untreated cases of chronic and extreme grinding, patients have been known to grind their teeth to stumps, causing severe dental problems requiring bridges, crowns, root canals, implants, and dentures. Therefore, it is extremely important to get proper diagnosis at an early stage, understand the underlying factors causing the condition, and commit to a sound treatment plan to repair the damage and prevent further deterioration. It is also important to understand that most grinding and clenching is the body’s unconscious response to stress and tension, so the first step to treating this potentially debilitating condition is to address

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lifestyle patterns and commit to making changes aimed at stress reduction, mindfulness, and self-care. Bruxism can also be caused by the obstruction of the airway (breathing space) experienced during snoring, sleep apnea, and other sleep interruptions. Besides stress and respiratory issues, bruxism can be exacerbated by metabolic and dietary factors such as alcohol and caffeine, as well as by late-night heavy meals or other digestive imbalances. From a dental perspective, the most effective tool for alleviating the symptoms and patterns of clenching and teeth grinding is a custom-fitted mouth guard that offers patients fairly immediate relief and improvement. The mouth guard eliminates pressure on the jaw, reduces impact of tooth-on-tooth friction, and prevents biomechanical stress on teeth and gums. The mouth guard also serves as an excellent non-invasive preventive treatment for overall dental health, often preventing the need for more invasive and expensive treatments. With a properly fitted mouth guard and consistent use during the night and occasionally during the day, we have seen tremendous improvements in most patients with bruxism-related symptoms, including headaches, poor sleep, jaw pain, gum tenderness, and tooth destruction. We are indeed fortunate that such a simple, noninvasive, and reasonable solution exists for a condition that can cause such suffering and discomfort. In our practice, we believe that our bodies are our most loyal and wise messengers that tell us when we are out of balance. Perhaps, our painful jaws and headaches are reminding us that it is time to explore self-care and restructure our lives to experience less stress and more joy and wellness. In this coming year, we hope you will listen and hear the message of your wise body and find your way to a healthier and more joyous life. We wish you all the very best and remain on stand-by to help you take care of your dental health and well-being. n Mountain View Dentistry 26560 Agoura Road, #102 Calabasas, CA 91302 818.880.4023 ForABeautifulSmile.com

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Do you suffer from sinus issues, sleep apnea, facial pain, or TMJ?

Calwest Head & Neck Surgical Institute can help By Elena Richards Photography by Marvin Steindler

alwest Head & Neck Surgical Institute is the premier comprehensive head and neck medical and surgical practice in the San Fernando and Conejo Valleys, treating patients for a variety of ear, nose, and throat issues and providing high-level care in head and neck surgery and facial plastic surgery. Together, Calwest’s surgeons and ENT associates have over 100 years of experience, training at the most prestigious institutions on the West Coast and holding faculty appointments at UCLA and the USC School of Medicine. Marc Kerner, MD, FACS, serves as medical director and is on the clinical faculty at Geffen-UCLA Medical School. Dr. Kerner is board certified by both the American Board of Otolaryngology -- Head and Neck Surgery and the American Board of Facial Plastic

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and Reconstructive Surgery. According to Dr Kerner, “Training in both areas results in a unique perspective on treating sinus disease, sleep apnea, facial reconstruction, and TMJ in patients.” Dr. Kerner has published over 30 peerreviewed papers and lectured internationally on sinus surgery, novel surgical procedures for sleep apnea treatment, and facial trauma. Dr. Kerner developed equipment and techniques for balloon sinuplasty, allowing the procedures to be done safely without x-ray guidance. Pioneering this technology as a resident surgeon at UCLA, Dr. Kerner was the first surgeon in Southern California to utilize image guidance for sinus surgery. Dr. Kerner is also one of the first doctors to do balloon sinuplasty, an office procedure done under local anesthesia and with minimal

recovery. By being on the cutting edge of minimally invasive sinus surgery, using the most advanced endoscopic surgical techniques, Dr. Kerner broadened the use of these techniques for facial fracture repairs, minimally invasive thyroid and parathyroid surgery, and cosmetic facial surgical procedures, such as endoscopic brow and midface lifting techniques. He lectures regularly on these techniques and has taught over 500 surgeons on the use of image guidance in sinus surgery. For patients suffering from obstructive sleep apnea who cannot tolerate a CPAP mask -a generally accepted non-surgical treatment -- Dr. Kerner pioneered a number of surgical treatment techniques. “These surgical techniques are essential for patients that cannot tolerate the CPAP device at night and that have life-threatening apnea,” says Dr. Kerner.

While working with his training staff in facial reconstruction and with colleagues in oral surgery, Dr. Kerner also developed modifications to effective surgical procedures involving jaw reconstruction, tongue advancement, airway reconstruction, and a minimally invasive, rapid-recovery tonsillectomy to accommodate these patients. One Calabasas resident attests, “My husband suffered severe sleep apnea and was snoring louder than a bear. Three months after surgery with Dr. Kerner, he no longer snores, and we both are getting a good night’s sleep.” Calwest offers innovative services in many other areas as well. The surgeons at Calwest were the first to use platelet gels for facial surgery, leading to greatly reduced bruising and better graft survival for fat grafting and facial augmentation. Calwest regularly uses stem cells for facial rejuvenation and works in conjunction with their chief of anesthesia, Dr. Morris Jagodowicz. Dr. Jagodowicz, a leading pain management specialist, uses stem cells and platelet gels to successfully treat soft tissue and degenerative joint diseases. Recently, an Olympic athlete was treated at Calwest for degenerative arthritis in the knees and hips. Rather than undergoing joint replacement surgery,

she elected to have stem cells and PRP injected into her joints. This successfully reduced her pain and increased her ability to walk and exercise.

Calwest accepts a wide range of PPO insurance and Medicare. For further information, visit calwestent.com or call 818.349.0600 in the San Fernando Valley and 805.230.1111 in the Conejo Valley. n

To provide comprehensive service for the treatment of TMJ and facial pain syndrome, Calwest offers multidisciplinary care by physical therapists, an inhouse pain management specialist, and affiliated dentists and oral surgeons. For ENT issues, Calwest’s ENT and head and neck associates Dr. Accomazzo and Dr. Pleet, two senior physicians with extensive experience in all aspects of ear, nose, and throat disorders, provide patients with care for the entire spectrum of issues. Calwest’s San Fernando Valley facility has a state-of-the-art operating room with Medicare accreditation and low-radiation CT scanning, providing a one-stop shop for the diagnosis of sinus and craniofacial issues. The Conejo Valley office offers the latest technologies for laser treatment of veins and skin discoloration, facial rejuvenation, and hair reduction, as well as the full array of office-based facial rejuvenation procedures, such as Botox and hyaluronic acid fillers.

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Put That

Donut Down...

and Grab Your SMARTPHONE

By Marc Cohen

s I write this article, I contemplate how to lose the weight I gained during the holidays and make my pledge to be healthier during 2015. I think we all have great intentions as the year starts, and then, as soon as we pass the donut store, somehow, we forget all of our resolutions. For the most part, I stay healthy; I work out regularly and play racquetball, but I love to eat, and somehow, workouts never seem to equate to calories consumed. So, how do we monitor our health needs? Well, if you are a smartphone user, you are in luck. In the past year, there has been a virtual explosion in the area of health and fitness apps. One of the selling points of the new iPhone, in fact, is an accumulation of various “Get You Healthier” apps.

If you want to monitor your pulse, look at the Azumio Instant Heart Rate app. It’s free and utilizes the flash on your camera to check your heart rate. HealthTap connects you with 64,000 doctors, helps you diagnose health issues, and gives advice -- some free and some pay as you go. One of my personal favorites is MyFitnessPal. It has an enormous database of food and restaurants and helps keep your calorie count during the course of your day. It’s free and works really well. If you are a bit obsessive about your weight, Withings has a Bluetooth scale that transmits your data wirelessly to a multitude of apps and tracks your body fat and calorie intake through its own app. The GAIN Fitness app has over 1,300 exercises, images, and stepby-step voice commands. You input your home equipment, and it generates a fitness program designed specifically for you. Again, this is a free app.

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I use Argus every day. It tracks all things health. It can monitor every step you take, and when you exercise, it gives you biofeedback data points to help you reach your goals. If running is your thing, check out RunKeeper. It can help organize your data in a chart format, logging walks, bike rides, and hikes, among other options. You can even take photos of locations you might like. Yes, we all know that the zombie apocalypse is coming, and it’s just a matter of time. Zombie, Run 2 tracks your run but also doubles as a game with a mission to save the human race. The more distance you run and the faster you go, the more supplies you receive. The app gives you over 100 missions and an interval-training program. It costs under $5, but frankly, that is a small price to pay for killing zombies. Finally, an app that makes sense! If you hate working out, help is on the way. Nestle Corp. announced that it has a new drink coming out that burns fat and calories without a workout. As Natalie Woods said in “Miracle on 34th Street,” “I believe. I believe. It’s silly, but I believe.” Whatever method you choose, use something to get healthy. As doctors always say, if you don’t have your health, you don’t have anything. n See you on the radio. Marc

Marc Cohen Host of Computer and Technology Radio computerandtechnologyradio.com

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Hear Clear Hearing Aids By Elena RIchards Photography by Marvin Steindler

earing loss is the third most common health problem in the U.S., and as the Baby Boomer generation continues to age, we now have nearly 36 million Americans that are hearing impaired. One out of three people aged 65 to 74 has some level of hearing loss, and after age 75, that percentage goes up to one out of every two people. While hearing loss is certainly a health issue, it can also affect people’s relationships and the quality of their lives.

There are many causes of hearing loss. Certain conditions, including age, illness, and genetics, are the biggest contributing factors. Lifetime exposure to noise and other damaging factors can also slowly wear down the ear’s delicate mechanics, and certain medications can impair hearing and balance. In fact, more than 200 medications and chemicals, including antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, loop diuretics, and some erectile dysfunction medications, can affect hearing loss. Certain illnesses, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes, can also put hearing at risk by interfering with the ear’s blood supply. Otosclerosis, a bone disease of the middle ear, and Ménière’s disease, which affects the inner ear, can both cause hearing loss. Tinnitus, a noise or ringing in the ears, is a common problem that affects hearing loss in about one in five people.

NW Rugs Jerome Vener, MD, FACS, and audiologist Iris Stone, M.A.-C.C.C.-A, FAAA, came together to form Hear Clear Hearing Aids, Inc. This partnership is a unique model that offers the first program in the area to combine the expertise of a board-certified ear, nose, and throat (ENT) physician, licensed in hearing-aid dispensing, and a certified dispensing audiologist, specializing in hearing-aid fittings and tinnitus management. This combination unites the medical expertise of a physician with the knowledge of an audiologist to bring you the best care, advice, and service a hearing facility can offer. Vener and Stone opened Hear Clear Hearing Aids to help people regain their hearing and, more importantly, stay connected to friends, families, and co-workers instead of remaining isolated and confused as so many with hearing loss do.

“For the Love of Tile” 50

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™

The good news is that technology has become so advanced that it is possible to restore hearing almost 100 percent if a person is properly diagnosed and fitted with the right type of hearing aid. Unfortunately, the hearing-aid business is profitable, and when franchised clinics pop up and are sold to people with little or no medical training, unsuspecting consumers pay the price. Unlike the majority of national franchised chains, Hear Clear Hearing Aids was founded to help members of the community

get more from a local hearing-care provider. Today, Hear Clear Hearing Aids continues the tradition of supporting better hearing through education, technology, and customer service. The company is proud that it can match or beat competitors’ prices and is even prouder that no one can match its level of medical and professional services. According to Stone and Vener, many of their clients initially were treated by other hearing-loss providers but then came to them because the other providers could not fix their myriad of problems. According to Stone, there are a few key things to consider when buying a hearing aid. Since hearing loss is unique to each individual, patients first need a complete, diagnostic, audiological exam to navigate the process. When choosing a provider, they should be wary of strict “trial” periods that do not allow enough time or flexibility when it comes to returning products. For example, Hear Clear Hearing Aids only works with manufacturers that offer at least 60 to 90 days after purchase for returns. This allows sufficient time to ensure that the device is right for the individual and that it has been adjusted properly. Patients should also be aware of salespeople who make claims like “sale prices end today.” Buying a hearing aid should not be an

impulse purchase subject to pressure from a salesperson, and claims of “buy one, get one free” can be a misleading tactic. Patients need to know that durability and reliability are important factors for hearing aids since most people wear hearing aids 12 to 18 hours a day. Hearing aids need to be durable enough to withstand moisture, heat, and environmental factors that affect the lifecycle of the device. The good news is that today’s technology is very advanced, and there are great hearing aids that can be worn 24/7 and that even work with Bluetooth technology and smartphones. Last but not least, Stone advises patients to consider the fact that their relationship with their hearing-aid provider will be a long-term relationship. Finding someone you trust, who takes your budget, lifestyle, and cosmetic and acoustic needs into consideration, will have a huge impact on your success at restoring your hearing and your quality of life. n 818.222.HEAR (4327) Calabasas: 4764 Park Granada, #109 Camarillo: 5301 Mission Oaks Bl. West Hills: 7345 Medical Center Dr., #511 Ojai : 1211 Maricopa Hwy, #109 HearClearHearingAids.com

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The Right Environment Matters

Dementia

WITH

hen the word dementia enters your world and affects you directly, life will change. But a dementia diagnosis doesn’t have to mean the end of a purposeful life. In fact, much of the latest research around memory impairing conditions is centered on early diagnosis and the positive effect that one’s environment can have on the disease progression. An environment where patients or residents are treated with the same dignity and respect that any adult would expect can lead to a better quality of life. Silverado, a memory care provider with expertise in dementia, certainly understands that. Silverado was founded 18 years ago with the goal of changing how the world cares for and perceives those affected by memory loss. Establishing this purpose as the foundation allows its associates to leave behind previous misconceptions and operate in a way that provides residents with utmost dignity, freedom, and quality of life. “We have hundreds of stories demonstrating the great things that can happen when we help our residents find purpose and meaning once again,” shares Silverado Calabasas Administrator Andrea Maury. “We also are the only memory care provider to have tracked clinical outcomes for nearly two decades, allowing us to gain considerable knowledge and a clear understanding of the best approaches to memory care.”

On the other hand, a person with dementia often gets lost in familiar places, will show a noticeable decline in short-term memory with difficulty recalling specific instances, and may lose their filter or behave inappropriately. A person with dementia may also easily confuse dates and seasons and forget where they are or how they got there. When these signs begin to show, its best to start by consulting an expert on the topic. “I tell people that the symptoms started sometime in the past and they may or may not have truly recognized what was happening, because statistically it takes about two years between the onset of symptoms and the time that the disease is diagnosed,” says Silverado Medical Director David Stern, M.D. It’s important for those concerned to regularly monitor and look for such signs in a loved one’s behavior. “There will be gradual but continuous decline such that a loved one may ask the same questions over and over again or may have word-finding difficulties. These might be the beginning symptoms,” says Stern. “I often remind families not to get annoyed by these signs and instead to seek the right help.”

To create just the right environment, Silverado takes a medicalsocial hybrid approach to care. From individually tailored engagement activities facilitated by specially trained staff to around-the-clock nurses and a dedicated physician medical director, the company has been a trusted resource to the Calabasas community for more than 15 years.

Regularly educating the community about dementia is critical as it has been shown that early diagnoses can help slow the progression. Because it can be a difficult conversation, using current events is one way to open a discussion with a loved one. And for those who are ready to take a first step, reaching out to trusted resources, such as Silverado, is a way to learn more about memory impairing diseases, to better understand the options that exist, and to get introduced to a physician who can conduct a memory screening.

But before making a care decision, individuals concerned about a loved one often ask about the difference between dementia and normal aging. A few simple examples illustrate that a person with normal aging may:

Maury adds, “Whether you pick up the phone to call us or visit us online, Silverado is here as a resource to help the Calabasas community. Certainly, the best way to experience Silverado is to visit us in person, and we invite all members of the community to drop by anytime!” n

• Pause to remember directions but doesn’t get lost in familiar places.

Learn more at silveradocare.com.

• Occasionally search for words but is able to quickly remember them.

Silverado Memory Care 25100 Calabasas Rd. Calabasas, CA 91320 818.222.1000

• Show a decrease in reaction time, but maintains their same level of interpersonal social skills.

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Putting Your Best

Face Forward ________________________

Dr. Sarmela Sunder is a double board certified and fellowship trained surgeon, specializing in facial plastic surgery and facial rejuvenation. She has dedicated years of training to the face and neck to be truly exceptional in her field. Her extensive training at Johns Hopkins, Cornell and Stanford, combined with her innate sense for aesthetics, gives her a distinctive approach for patient counseling and management. Additionally, Dr. Sunder represents a womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perspective, allowing her to offer her patients a unique and exclusive experience. Over the past decade, she has seen an increasing number of patients interested in mini-lifts. Many patients are opting for this minimally invasive procedure at a younger age, so that they can experience more natural-looking results. Here are some of the most common questions and answers about this procedure. ________________________

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What is a mini lift?

A mini-facelift, more simply referred to as a mini-lift, is a minimally invasive procedure designed to address the early signs of aging and reduce minor sagging of the cheeks and jawline. As part of the procedure, the skin and muscles of the face are lifted to a more youthful position.

What are the differences between a mini-lift and a traditional facelift?

The benefits of a mini-lift over those of a traditional facelift include shorter procedure length and less downtime. Many patients return to work in one week. Because the procedure is minimally invasive, the procedure can be performed without the use of a general anesthetic, which many patients prefer. In addition, the cost of a minilift is significantly less than that of a traditional facelift. On the other hand, traditional facelifts last longer and address more significant aging concerns.

Who is a good candidate for a mini-lift?

Ideal candidates for a mini-facelift are patients who are interested in lifting and tightening their lower face. Typical signs that someone may be ready for one are a loss of definition in the jawline or the development of jowls. In addition, people who have less time for recovery tend to opt for a mini-lift rather than a traditional facelift. While most patients who opt for a mini-lift are in the 40-55 year old age range, there really is no true age requirement for the procedure. Anyone who is looking for a natural refreshed look and is in good medical condition can be a great candidate for this procedure.

Who is not a good candidate for a mini-lift?

Patients who have significant loose skin, especially in the neck; patients who require significant lifting of the cheek and tissues of the lower face; and patients who desire extensive changes to their appearance are not good candidates for a mini-lift. Instead, they would benefit more from a traditional facelift.

Could other procedures be incorporated into a mini-lift?

Yes, many of my patients have a blepharoplasty to address their droopy eyelids at the same time as the mini-lift. I also have a significant number of patients who have fat transfer procedures included in their mini-lift. Fat transfer involves taking fat from the abdomen or thighs and placing it the areas of the face that are lacking volume, such as the smile lines and cheeks. By doing this, the patient is able to reduce the need for fillers, such as Juvederm or Restylane, while restoring the youthful contours of their face. Many patients also incorporate skin-resurfacing procedures as well, such as a laser treatment or micro-needling to reduce the appearance of fine lines.

BEFORE

AFTER

Sarmela Sunder,

Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery 16311 Ventura Blvd Suite 600 Encino, CA 91436 818.501.3223 (FACE) facebook.com/facialsurgeon Ruth Swissa Spa 29020 Agoura Road Agoura Hills, CA 91301 818.735.8818 sunderplasticsurgery.com Calabasas Style 57

Keep it

Simple

By Pax Ansley

ife is a dance. So is your health. Like a graceful waltz, your healthy lifestyle requires balance and knowledge of the proper steps. With practice, a healthy lifestyle can become second nature. Fortunately for us, we live in an age where we know more about the human body than ever before. This also means that there is a wealth of contradicting material, ready at our fingertips.

How do you sift through it all? Do your research. Google it. Find a second opinion and then a third. The Internet is an amazing resource when utilized properly. Don’t believe everything you see on Dr. Phil. Read up on that diet you saw in People or even on the news. Designer diets, foods, and fads are all over the media. Don’t be fooled by the drastic before-and-after pictures of peoples’ unbelievable transformations. Losing weight at the kind of rate these diets promise is both unhealthy and unreliable. Plus, odds are it is going to be a lot harder to keep off the weight. Instead, make healthy living a way of life so you don’t get burned out. Find something that you enjoy. If you hate running but have a passion for inline skating, ditch the sneakers and grab your skates. You will be burning the same calories but you’ll be having a blast instead of crying into your sweatband. We all have our vices. For many people, sugary juices and syrupy soft drinks are a weakness. Whatever you do, do not get trapped in the

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“diet soda/artificially flavored drinks do not count” conundrum. Just because it has zero calories does not mean you are drinking water. Many studies have proven that artificial sweeteners are much worse than the real thing, with long-term side effects such as cancer thrown in the mix. Put down that diet soda and grab an iced tea with lemon. Or better yet, grab a glass of water! So, buying natural or organic must be healthy, right? Not necessarily. Just because something says it is “fat free” or “gluten free” doesn’t mean it is good for you. Take a look at the nutritional facts on the package to see what you need to know. Then, I’ll say it again, do your research. I don’t know if you have heard, but there is an updated food pyramid in town. It says that we have been eating too much meat. Do you know how many fruits and vegetables you should be eating? The most crucial aspect of this beautiful house of cards is moderation. Too much of anything can be detrimental. Just as bad as not exercising is exercising too much. Overeating and anorexia are both very real eating disorders. Staying healthy should not be torture. Simplicity and balance are key. Know that your mind affects your body. Don’t overcomplicate. Don’t stress. Don’t self-diagnose. You’ll make yourself sick. Take care of your body and mind and be aware of what goes into them. Prevent now so you won’t have to react later. n

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Ask the

Pharmacist Q A

I am traveling to Asia this spring. What do I need to do to stay healthy while I am there?

First, I’d like to commend you for being proactive in seeking advice to protect yourself before traveling.

There is plenty to consider when it comes to your health when traveling outside the United States. In fact, 50 to 75 percent of all travelers become ill while traveling outside of the United States. In a 2009 airport survey, half the travelers did not seek advice before their trip, 80 percent did not have up-to-date immunizations, and only one-third were carrying an antibiotic for travelers’ diarrhea. So, by seeking advice, you are taking the first step toward keeping your vacation illness-free. I recommend going to a travel health specialist before you leave. He or she can assess where, when, and why you are traveling; what you will be doing on your trip; and who you will be traveling with or visiting. The travel specialist can then review this information together with your medical history and make recommendations for immunizations, prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, and other relevant products, such as insect repellant, mosquito netting, and water purifiers. A travel-certified pharmacist can give you everything you need as well and can administer immunizations, such as Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and yellow fever immunizations. The pharmacist can also provide the medications needed to prevent malaria or altitude sickness without a physician’s prescription. The specialist can let you know of any travel alerts for your destination, and he or she can also discuss travelers’ insurance. You don’t want to depend on the health care system in a foreign country, especially if you don’t speak the language. So, visit a travel health specialist, get the necessary vaccinations, and bring your prescription and non-prescription medications so you can stay healthy and have a great time. n

Brenda Johnson, R.Ph. Calabasas Pharmacy Owner Inside Gelson’s Market 22277 Mulholland Hwy. Calabasas M – F: 9am – 7pm Saturday: 10am – 4pm Sunday: 10am – 4pm P: 818.223.8656 F: 818.223.8750 calabasaspharmacy.com

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Healthy Choices Calabasas St yle ’ s Favo r ite Picks By Sabrina Samedi

CALABASAS FARMER’S MARKET For a delicious and healthy dessert option, go for nature’s candy: berries! In just one serving, you can fuel your body with amazing antioxidants that, as studies show, help fight cancer, lower blood pressure, manage diabetes, and keep you mentally sharp. Who doesn’t love to devour a guiltless dessert? Open on Saturdays. 23504 Calabasas Rd. Calabasas rawinspiration.org

PIVOT NUTRITION AND FITNESS To stay on track with health ambitions, reboot your metabolism with a smoothie from Pivot Nutrition and Fitness. Great for a post-workout meal or snack, Pivot’s smoothies are not only filled with 24 grams of protein, but they are low in carbs, high in fiber, and have no added dairy. 26500 West Agoura Rd., #113 Calabasas 818.914.6700 facebook.com/pivotnutrition

THE STONEHAUS There is no better way to wake up than with a poached egg, avocado, and quinoa plate from The Stonehaus. This superfood-filled delight is not only heart-healthy, but it is packed with protein and fiber to help optimize your health management and keep you feeling satisfied longer. 32039 Agoura Rd. Westlake Village 818.483.1152 the-stonehaus.com

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To help you stick to your healthy-living resolutions, we have selected some of our favorite local spots for those of you on the go and in need of getting your daily fix of nutritious goodness.

SUNLIFE ORGANICS

Nekter Juice Bar

After the holidays, many of us want to detoxify our bodies. Juices are an ideal way to more efficiently absorb immune-boosting nutrients found in fruits and vegetables. Juicing also provides a direct way to access digestive enzymes typically locked away in the fiber matrix of whole fruits and vegetables.

Grabbing an acai bowl is always a winning option. The acai berry heralds numerous health benefits with its combination of antioxidants, amino acids, and omega fatty acids, which serve to naturally slow down the aging process and boost energy levels and metabolic functions.

4799 Commons Way, #E Calabasas 818.222.1777 sunlifeorganicsmalibu.com

3835 E. Thousand Oaks Bl., #H Thousand Oaks 800.385.1650 nekterjuicebar.com

WILDFLOUR BAKERY AND CAFĂ&#x2030; Wildflour provides a healthy dining experience where all produce is locally sourced and delivered daily. They serve free-range chicken that is antibiotic and hormone free, and all their scrumptious pastries and breads are baked with non-GMO flour. Wildflour never uses additives or preservativies. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clean eating at its finest! 29105 Canwood St. Agoura 818.597.8774 wfbakery.com

POPPED FRESH GOURMET POPCORN On any given day, many of us could use a midday pick-me-up to rejuvenate our energy levels and sometimes even our moods. Whether you are going for something sweet or salty, popcorn is filled with whole grains, fiber, and antioxidants. 5013 Kanan Rd. Agoura Hills 818.707.7200 poppedfresh.com

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MOVE! The best ways to get fit for the new year!

If you are like most people, this is the time of year that you resolve to start exercising, get in shape and lose unwanted fat. Unfortunately, millions of people made those same resolutions last year, and many fell way short of reaching their desired goals. So why do so many people give up these good intentions weeks or even days after making them? The answer is simple. The only fitness and exercise programs that really work are the ones that work for YOU – meaning that it has to work in conjunction with everything going on your life and lifestyle. We at Calabasas Style have tried to answer some of these questions for you. We’ve talked to many of the people who own or run some of the best fitness gyms and studios in town. All are great and have happy clients that love their workouts and the results they are getting. So, read on and see which type of workout might be the best for you. We urge you to read about them, check out their websites, and visit several before you make any decisions. We’re confident that you will find a place and program that you can stick with and achieve a better and healthier you.

Agoura Hills/Calabasas Community Center 27040 Malibu Hills Rd. Calabasas 818.880.2993 ahccc.org

fit core smart moves Personal Training and Yoga Studio 23480 Park Sorrento, #117A Calabasas 805.469.2020 fitcoresmartmoves.com

The Agoura Hills/Calabasas Community Center is a state-of-the-art facility that offers a variety of recreational, social, cultural, and educational opportunities to meet the needs of the surrounding communities. This 30,000-squarefoot facility features a gymnasium with basketball, volleyball, and badminton courts; a full-service fitness studio; a dance and exercise studio; and a 35-foot, indoor rock-climbing wall.

Fit Core Smart Moves offers personal training that is time efficient, well rounded, safe, and holistic. Their goal it not only to get their clients fit and toned in the least amount of time, but to make the results sustainable in the long run. This is achieved through functional training and total-body/multi-plane workouts that include cardio, flexibility and weight training, yoga, and recovery exercises to activate all muscle groups including the prime movers and core stabilizers. This approach not only ensures burning as many calories as possible in a limited time, but also trains the body to move efficiently as a whole.

The state-of-the-art fitness studio is always open during operating hours and features professional workout stations, adjustable treadmills, step machines, elliptical machines, a calisthenics area, and an extensive collection of free weights. The dance and exercise room is home to popular Featured Fitness classes. From calm and gentle classes, like yoga, stretch, and Pilates, to energetic and upbeat classes, like Zumba, step, cycling, and R.I.P.P.E.D., the center offers an impressive array of over 50 fitness classes for you to choose from. The 10,000-square-foot gymnasium features basketball, volleyball, and badminton courts that are available for open play at various times throughout the week. Badminton is one of the fastest growing sports in Southern California, so come to the AHCCC and see why! The players are friendly, the competition is strong, and it’s great exercise. The AHCCC offers open basketball and open volleyball at various times throughout the week, and all levels are welcome. For intermediate or advance fencers, there is electric scoring equipment for open bouting; fencers must have their own gear, including uniforms and weapons.

At Fit Core Smart Moves, each person begins with a thorough assessment to choose exercises which are both challenging and safe. The approach is also educational as they will explain the purpose of each exercise and how it improves your health and fitness. They will guide you to achieve a healthy body composition, strengthen the muscles that need to be stronger, and relax the ones that are tight. They also incorporate exercises to facilitate better mind-body connection, coordination, and brain function that results in more energy to improve each client’s overall sense of strength, health, and well-being.

The owner, Karolina, is an experienced, NASMcertified, personal trainer, yoga teacher, and Pilates and TRX instructor. She helped hundreds of people achieve their goals, be it body composition, posture correction, injury prevention, or stress reduction. Fit Core Smart Moves offers a free, 20-minute, introductory The AHCCC also has personal trainers to session to meet the instructors and see the studio. help you reach your health and fitness goals, increase your cardiovascular health, and learn about healthy eating choices.

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BIKRAM YOGA AGOURA HILLS 5027 Kanan Rd. Agoura Hills 818.706.9642 bikramyogaagourahills.com Bikram Yoga Agoura Hills is dedicated to helping you take control of your life both physically and mentally by obtaining optimum fitness, improving stress management, and learning how to heal old injuries.

CYCLE TRAX 21747 Erwin St. Woodland Hills 818.932.9354 cycle-trax.com

CycleTRaX is Woodland Hills’ first and only indoor cycling and TRX Circuit Training studio, located in the heart of Warner Center. Each class is designed to accommodate all ages and fitness levels, from beginners to serious athletes. This hip and cool studio is quickly Known as ‘’hot yoga,’’ Bikram Yoga is the becoming the premier indoor cycling and TRX original Hatha yoga series and is comprised of studio throughout the Western Valley! 26 postures and two breathing exercises. Each 90-minute class is conducted in a room heated At CycleTRaX, all the classes are coached to 105 degrees to stimulate organs, glands, and by highly skilled, experienced, and certified nerves, moving blood through 100 percent of instructors. The studio atmosphere is designed the body. The heat provides a complete system to be less intimidating and more inspiring than of wellness, restoration, and rejuvenation. It large-scaled gym settings. promotes sweating to assist with detoxification, using the largest organ of elimination: the skin. The cycling classes are taught using awardCapillaries dilate, allowing an increase of oxygen winning Keiser M2 bikes, which monitor your into muscles, tissues, glands, and organs, which cadence, calories burned, heart rate, and also aids in the removal of waste products. distance. Instructors lead riders on a safe and effective 50-minute ride using energizing An elevated heart rate is also achieved through music to set the tempo and cadence on the Bikram Yoga, helping improve cardiovascular bikes. Flat roads, hill climbs, and sprints are function and allowing for greater mobility of incorporated, keeping riders lively on and off the joints. Birkram Yoga stimulates both sides their saddles. of the brain to improve memory, learning, coordination, and balance. It systematically To complement their great cycle classes, works every part of the body to give all the Cyclerax also offers TRX Circuit Training classes. internal organs, veins, ligaments, and muscles These classes emphasize low-impact, dynamic everything they need to maintain optimum functional movement in coordination with health and function. the TRX Suspension Training System. The TRX Suspension System leverages gravity and your Bikram Yoga was brought to North America body weight to perform hundreds of exercises in 1972. Today, millions of people worldwide to build muscular endurance and core embrace the benefits of this form of yoga. All strength. Each class utilizes the TRX Suspension levels are welcome at Bikram Yoga Agoura System in combination with resistance tubing, Hills as every class is suitable for beginning to battle ropes, sandbells, and body bars. advanced students. No prior yoga or athletic experience is necessary. CycleTRaX offers a variety of challenging and exciting classes for all with a focus on Come join local students and be inspired exceptional instruction and customer service. to achieve your full potential in a caring There’s also plenty of free parking and special community that promotes individual health, pricing for new clients who want to join the fun! happiness, and balance.

TEAGUE CLASSICAL PILATES 29020 Agoura Rd. Agoura Hills 818.991.9405 pilates-fitness.com If you’ve never been to Teague Pilates Studio, you are in for a pleasant surprise. Spending a couple of hours a week in the beautiful, peaceful environment will not only shape, stretch, and tone your body but lift your spirit as if you are at a lovely resort. Owners Gerald and Cathie Teague are personally involved with helping you obtain your results. Gerald, a neuromuscular therapist, and Cathie, a master classical Pilates teacher, have a combined 33 years of Pilates experience. Their 5000-square-foot studio is equipped with state-of-the-art Pilates equipment plus high-tech amenities for pain relief and effective body conditioning. Everyone starts with an evaluation to determine strengths, weaknesses, skeletal alignment issues, dominant muscles, and individual goals. One of the first priorities is to get rid of muscle and joint-related pain in order for you to move freely with the precision that it takes to reform your body back to its natural, intended state. Pain interferes with movement and is often the result of misalignment and imbalances. A skillful teacher is able to determine the specific movements you personally need to achieve your desired results. The Teague Pilates lifestyle not only shapes, tones, improves flexibility, circulation, and aerobic conditioning, but it can also help prevent unnecessary surgeries and painmasking medications as it reverses the aging process. All of this comes with affordable classes starting at $7 and private lessons ranging from $45 to $95 with three levels of certified teachers. Drop by for a complementary tour.

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Get Up and

By Pax Ansley

xercise can be anything that gets you moving. By the same token, “working out” does not have to mean spending an hour sweating over a treadmill, and leading a healthy lifestyle should not be torture. In fact, abusing yourself with boredom and pain probably will only lead to burnout. So why not mix it up and find something you actually enjoy doing? If you find fresh, fun, and fascinating ways to get your heart pumping, you’ll soon forget you are burning so many calories. Here are some ways to think outside the gym box: 1) Zen Out at Yoga -- If you have not yet tried this ancient form of exercise that has been sweeping our nation, you are missing out. Not only does a yoga class burn calories, but it also aids in achieving focus, flexibility, and inner peace. A wide selection of classes are offered at most studios, so do some research, find a class at your level, and give it a shot. 2) Go Studio-Class Hopping -- Pop into an ever-popular spin class to sweat it out on a stationary bike to some sweet tunes and motivation. Try your hand at the barre in a Cardio Barre class. Or go for the serene atmosphere of a Pilates class. The possibilities are endless. 3) Take a Dance Class -- Have you always wanted to learn to dance Salsa? Do you have two left feet on the dance floor? Grab your significant other or go solo and sign up for a dance class. It can help your balance and coordination, and before you know it, you will be a regular Patrick Swayze or Jennifer Grey out there. Plus, by the end of

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MOVE! class, you’ll be sweating, burning calories, and smiling with all of your new dance friends. 4) Take a Martial Arts Class -- Want to get your upper body in on the action? Try your hands (and feet) at martial arts. All martial arts offer an incredible workout, and the training can help with balance and coordination and give you a good introduction to self-defense. 5) Go Rock Climbing -- One of the most rewarding feelings is overcoming an obstacle you have been struggling to surmount. Recreate this experience by going rock climbing. The strength and agility required to reach the top will make you sore the next day, but it’s worth it. As you get stronger and more skilled, change the difficulty of the ascent to challenge yourself. Enjoy the view from the top; you earned it. 6) Play With Your Children -- Have you ever noticed how your children seem to have an endless supply of energy? Spend one hour playing games outside with your kids and you’re sure to feel it later. Tag, freeze tag, hide-and-seek -- the possibilities are endless. Not only is play great exercise, but your children will love spending quality time with you. Let your inner child out to play and forget that you were ever “working out.” If you don’t have children, a dog is a wonderful furry substitution with just as much energy! 7) Adjust the Little Things -- Integrate healthy activities into your everyday life. Make little changes. Park farther away and walk. Bike to the store instead of driving the car. Take the stairs. Enjoy your body and its abilities. Use it whenever possible. Get up and move! n

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Talent Lab’s Winter Production By Sabrina Samedi Photography By Debbie Vaccarello Talent Lab presented its annual holiday show, “Once Upon a Winter’s Night,” at Agoura High School’s Performing Arts Education Center on December 7th. This extraordinary production featured winter-inspired aerial and dance pieces performed by students of Talent Lab Youth Dance and Aerial Companies. The performance left the audience in awe as the performers incorporated elements of aerial, tap, hip hop, ballet, jazz, lyrical and contemporary dance into their holiday production. Unique to Talent Lab is their mission to explore all of forms of movement both on the ground and in the air. Established in 2008, Talent Lab’s aerial arts program continues to be the only training center in the Conejo Valley. With its roots in modern dance, gymnastics and circus performance, aerial artistry adds an exciting vertical dimension to dance and movement. Talent Lab aims to foster artistic excellence through an intensive technical and reflective study of performance arts.

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CALABASAS CLASSIC RUN By Sabrina Samedi On your mark, get set, go! Runners and community members joined forces on November 9th at the City of Calabasas Civic Center for the Calabasas Classic Run. The Community Center Alliance organized the race as a fundraiser for the programs, activities, and services provided at the Agoura Hills/Calabasas Community Center. This 5K/10K run course explores the beautiful roads of Calabasas and symbolizes a celebration of community, fitness, and fun. The event also features a one-mile fun run for those looking to be a part of such a joyous occasion but are not yet ready for the greater distance runs. This classic run was perfect for competitive and non-competitive runners alike who enjoyed the course’s challenges along with the post-run party expo to celebrate each runner’s achievement. The expo featured stretches and massages by EQUINOX Fitness Club, free giveaways and raffles, and Run Kids Run presented Kid’s Fun Zone, making this a truly family-festive event.

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Rock It 2 the Core Yoga Benefit By Sabrina Samedi Photography by Adam Blaser Yogis, community members, musicians, and activists came together for the annual Rock it 2 the Core Yoga and Music Festival on November 1st at CHS to raise funds for Unlikely Heroes. Unlikely Heroes rescues and rehabilitates child victims of sex slavery by providing each rescued child with a safe restoration home. Motivated by the mantra “I am the change,” Rock it 2 the Core’s founder Dawn Stillo describes this grassroots movement as a collaboration of rockers and yogis who want to make the world a better place by bringing an end to human trafficking and sex slavery here in Los Angeles and around the world. Rock it 2 the Core proudly announced that 100 percent of the proceeds raised from ticket sales went directly to Unlikely Heroes. This incredible benefit featured a variety of food trucks offering a delectable culinary experience as well as yoga classes taught by Bryan Kest, creator of Power Yoga; Droit Rudin, owner of Agoura Power of Yoga; and Dawn Stillo. It also featured performances by Aloe Blacc, Andra Day, 7 Lions, and The Cold Start.

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Cancer Schmancer Fundraiser By Sabrina Samedi Who does not love to shop for a good cause? Calabasas resident and recent cancer survivor Debra Gurin hosted a Stella & Dot Cancer Schmancer fundraiser on December 2nd. Debra couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t resist aiding Cancer Schmancer in shifting the focus from just searching for a cure to prevention and early detection of cancer in order to save lives.

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By Beth Cone Kramer Photography by Marvin Steindler

he first Arizona Leather showroom opened in Tustin in 1995 with a mission to educate consumers about upholstered leather furniture and help them make informed decisions. Arizona Lather is a factory direct furniture company that manufactures high quality leather products.

as leather by other retailers is often a cheap vinyl made of a heavily processed leather material. The sales staff is excited to share its knowledge of leather with customers and explain the differences between the leathers they offer and the imposter options from China that are currently in the market.

Today, the leather furniture retailer operates showrooms in Northern and Southern California, Georgia, Arizona and a soon to be opened Oklahoma location. A visit to the Agoura Hills showroom provides an education in upholstered leather furniture.

Arizona Leather prides itself on the ability to custom-build leather furniture that is higher quality and longer lasting, all manufactured locally in California. Most retailers today follow the “what you see is what you get” approach; Arizona Leather, however, offers a wide array of leather colors, nail head styles, seat options, configurations, firmness levels and wood finishes to suit traditional or contemporary decors.

Arizona Leather, considered the “leather specialists” by some, is committed to hiring and retaining a trained professional sales staff. Due to the high percentage of imports in the market today, many unsuspecting consumers are often not aware that what is presented

Arizona Leather

Arizona Leather proudly sells American-made upholstered leather and fabric furniture. The retailer offers a high level of service and

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meaningful warranties that are included with each purchase, unlike the majority of furniture retailers around today. Visit the â&#x20AC;&#x153;leather specialistsâ&#x20AC;? today! You will be glad that you did. n

Arizona Leather 28811 Canwood St., #100 Agoura Hills 818.889.1212 arizonaleather.com Closes at 6 PM

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NOBLE SPACES

The Santa Monica Arm Chair in Chateau Blue Croc Leather and Copper Frame by Sarreid Ltd.

By Tammy Randall Wood, ASID

I believe in noble spaces -- not necessarily fancy spaces, but noble spaces. Spaces that help us, well, be noble. A version of our higher selves, if you will. Spaces that assist us in our daily routines to be more organized, inspired, and productive. Spaces that allow us to gather as friends and family and nurture our own spirits as well as the ones we love. And last but not least, I believe in spaces that allow us to grow and learn. It might sound a bit esoteric, as we are only discussing interior design, but sometimes it’s helpful to consider the big picture or purpose and then work backwards, remembering that the goal is ultimately to create spaces that serve and inspire. Then, the conversation of personal style within those spaces can truly be off to a meaningful start. In 1994, I founded Interior Archaeology, a comprehensive interior design firm specializing in creating exquisite spaces with the same attention to detail that captivated me on the Hollywood sets I grew up on. We’ve spent much of the last 20 years discovering those secret sources and special details that help Interior Archaeology create its brand of simple elegance that serves real, everyday living. In these quests, we’ve forged relationships with an impressive array of furnishings manufacturers, tradespeople, artists, custom workrooms, auction houses, architects, and builders that we rely on to help us create the looks we are known for. And we’ve learned so much along the way.

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I was thrilled when the editors of Calabasas Style approached me to share our insights and perspectives on interior design. But oh my, where to begin?! So many areas of interest impact the subject of home design and creating this nest that informs everything we do. It involves many elements that I am interested in -- everything when it comes to home, real estate, architecture, what’s trending, styles, where we’ve come from, and where we’re going. I like to know the history of things, how they’re made, what they’re made of, how to get them, how to use them, and how to preserve them. Still jet-lagged, I’ve just returned from Fall Market. “Market,” as it’s called in the home furnishings industry, refers to The International Home Furnishings Market in High Point, N.C., that takes place every April and October. Like Brigadoon, every spring and fall, this quaint southern hamlet -- the capitol of the U.S. furniture industry -- bursts into life with vendors and buyers from all over the world descending upon it to do business. Bustling permanent and temporary showrooms are festooned with the latest trends, collections, and achievements displayed by vendors in every category of home furnishings. One development that’s undoubtedly here to stay a while is the arrival of the warmer metal tones -- hand rubbed brass, burnished gold, worn bronze, and even copper. These metals flooding into designs today are the pendulum swinging opposite the cool, polished nickel and blackened

The Blackland Cabinet with Burnished Brass Hardware by Suzanne Kasler for Hickory Chair

bronze we saw emerge and dominate design 15 years or so ago. We’re seeing the use of these warm metals pop up in everything from bathroom hardware, cabinet pulls, and lighting to spot tables and chair legs. Don’t groan; this is not the yellow-tinged, thin, lacquered brass plate on the doorknobs of your first condo. This is a rich, higher-quality interpretation with a handsome restrained aesthetic. These are the metals to try and incorporate into the choices you’re making today. You will also notice another aesthetic evolving among these examples. It’s a reach back to The Art Moderne, the streamline style that arose out of the late Deco period in the 1930s. Informed by machines whose arrival into everyday life had forever changed the American experience, industrial-age designers stripped Art Deco of its ornamentation in favor of the aerodynamic, pure-line concept of speed, motion, and scientific thinking. This period epitomizes the entire concept of modern; the fact that it happened 80 years ago gives this style the patina and charm of history. So, if you’ve been reticent to embrace the sea change towards modern furnishings that has occurred in recent years, you might find your happy medium beginning to emerge now.

With Suzanne Kasler featuring her newest collection at the Hickory Chair showroom in High Point. that help me unite the pieces that make a home a noble space. The tones and lines within these current design trends allow me to build bridges between all of the styles we work with, which is why I think they can be considered more than trend and equate to timeless style. n Tammy Randall Wood, ASID INTERIOR ARCHAEOLOGY 818.991.0365 interiorarchaeology.com

I love the idea that these warm metals and streamlined silhouettes “mix” or “play nicely with others,” as I jokingly like to say. They lend themselves to almost any style. The trick to livable, interesting design, I think, is assembling pieces that although disparate, find commonality together in one space -- perhaps through tone, texture, or silhouette. How you choose to put these characters together is your voice coming through, telling your story. As a designer, I love finding bridges

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DR. TERINO HOSTS

A Party with a Purpose

By Sabrina Samedi

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Tis the season for love! Dr. Edward Terino, long-time renowned and local plastic surgeon donated his private residence to sponsor an Elite Connections fundraiser on November 29th. Elite Connections, established by Westlake Village resident Sherri Murphy in 1994, is one of the earliest matchmaking agencies to assist single people in finding quality partners to share their lives with. In accordance with the generous spirit of the holidays, the affair was a night to remember as 150 members attended and donated items for children. Since the birth of Elite Connections, this annual gift-giving tradition has exclusively benefited homeless and poverty-stricken children. The fundraiser also hosted an elaborate silent auction with opportunities to win trips to Tahiti and other interesting and valuable items, such as original paintings and sculptures by local artists. All proceeds from the silent auction were donated to homeless children. Guests of this lovely occasion danced the night away to the tunes of live jazz and blues performed by Soul Infusion.

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PEDALERS FORK Brings Cycling Culture, 10 Speed Coffee, and Great Food to Calabasas

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By Beth Cone Kramer Photography by Marvin Steindler

top by Pedalers Fork in the heart of Old Town Calabasas, and you’ll find a mixed crowd of stay-at-home moms gathering for a post-drop-off breakfast, cyclists, foodies, health-food enthusiasts, and the after-work cocktail set. Since opening in April 2013, this café, restaurant, and fullservice bike shop has become a favorite spot for locals gathering for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a steaming mug of 10 Speed Coffee. Pedalers Fork’s Gideon Kleinman says the restaurant is “about bringing people together around great food, drinks, and cycling culture. It’s a space that was built to be inviting and accommodating to everyone who walks or rolls through its doors.” The food philosophy at Pedalers Fork is simple: use ingredients sourced from local farms and growers, craft breweries, and artisan distilleries to serve delicious and satisfying meals. “Pedalers Fork and 10 Speed Coffee have always been dedicated to cycling, and it shows throughout the restaurant, coffee shop, and bike shop,” adds Kleinman.

traditional-style espresso preparations; and pressed juice. The bar serves selections from microbreweries as well as wine and crafted rye-whiskey-centric cocktails. The bike shop at Pedalers Fork is the only MOOTS boutique in existence, selling the complete line of MOOTS titanium bicycles, handcrafted in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. As a full-service shop, the bike shop will work on, build, and order virtually anything. The team at Pedalers Fork is eager to guide novice cyclists into the sport. Pedalers Fork is a unique lifestyle concept that incorporates farm-totable cuisine, cycling, and great coffee in the heart of Calabasas. Restaurant (breakfast, lunch, dinner); bar; café; full-service bike shop Hours: Sunday through Thursday, 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. n

Pedalers Fork 23504 Calabasas Rd. Calabasas 818.225.8231 pedalersfork.com

Just how did a cycling-centric-restaurant-meets-full-service-bike-shop end up on Calabasas Road? Gideon Kleinman and Robbie Schaeffer were out on a ride when they started dreaming of a space that would encompass all their passions. The team put together a lifestyle restaurant with all the amenities -- from neighborhood bar to coffee shop to bike shop -- dedicated to bringing the highest-quality, locally sourced ingredients, artisan vendors, and craft producers to Calabasas. As a farm-direct restaurant, Pedalers Fork operates under the principle that good food begins with the best ingredients. The team has worked tirelessly to find and build relationships with the best local growers and ranchers, enabling the kitchen staff to craft dishes to highlight the true flavors of fruit, produce, meat, and fish. The owners of Pedalers Fork hope guests walk (or ride) out of the restaurant feeling whole, healthy, and part of a community. The menu at Pedalers Fork changes daily but typically includes dinner plates with dishes such as stuffed quinoa cakes; braised, Watkins Ranch, beef short ribs with garlic potato puree, rainbow carrots, Cippolini onions, and spinach; and the chef’s burger -- 8 ounces of grass-fed beef with white cheddar, blue cheese, arugula, sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, Applewood bacon, tomato jam, and hand-cut fries. “Starts” include the house special, Pacific Stone crab cakes; Forbidden, a salad of black rice, shiitake, cucumber kimchi, sesame, radish, tofu, mizuna, arugula in a miso ginger vinaigrette; and the popular Devils on Horseback. On Tuesday nights, the restaurant serves seasonal lasagna with house-made pasta. The lunch menu includes a variety of salads and other options, such as braised short ribs; grilled cheese on grain sourdough with white cheddar, arugula, and caramelized onion; classic grilled cheese and tomato soup; and a warm vegetable grain bowl. Brunch is served seven days a week and includes lighter fare, like granola or raw chia-seed porridge; egg dishes; and blueberrybanana-quinoa Johnny cakes. The menu at Pedalers Fork accommodates guests who want heartier fare as well as health-food enthusiasts and everyone in between. Pedalers Fork has garnered a reputation for serving excellent beverages, including 10 Speed Coffee, sourced from the highestquality, green coffee beans from around the world, roasted and cupped to bring out the best possible flavor profile. Pedalers Fork serves a changing selection of single-origin brew as well as the house Kickstand brew. In addition to offering their signature coffee, Pedalers Fork offers bottled, Japanese-style, cold-brewed coffee;

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MUSE By Sabrina Samedi

Lavender Faire

Families and community members alike were proud to celebrate the Fall Harvest at MUSE Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lavender Fair on November 8th. The Mission at MUSE Schools is to inspire and prepare young people to live consciously with themselves, one another, and the planet. The annual Lavender Faire reflected that mission by including sustainable family workshops featuring topics such as winter gardening, urban bee keeping, and an Eco-Marketplace. Guests enjoyed local, seasonal, and organic food provided by the MUSE School chef and local restaurants that offer farm to table food. Families also enjoyed outdoor concerts, watching creative dance performances, conquering the rock climbing wall, and visiting the petting zoo that delighted adults and kids alike. The annual MUSE Lavender Faire brings the school mission to life - to inspire creative, collaborative, courageous leaders who champion change for a sustainable and ever-evolving world. The rich, hands-on environment at MUSE is devoted to ensuring that students develop as whole people, lifelong learners, and engaged citizens who are healthy in mind, body and play.

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MUSEtalks Presents Dr. Jay Gordon, MD

Celebrated pediatrician and parenting expert, Fit Pregnancy and Parenting contributor.

Wednesday, January 21st, 6-8 PM 1666 Las Virgenes Canyon Road, Calabasas

FREE to the public

Child care provided ($10/potty-trained child) RSVP/child care reservations: 818.880.5437 or mhudak@museschool.org

Admissions Information Night Thursday, January 22nd @ 7pm MUSE Middle/High

Grades 5- 12th 4345 N. Las Virgenes Road, Calabasas, CA 91302

MUSE Prime

Early Childhood - 4th 1666 Las Virgenes Canyon Road, Calabasas, CA 91302 RSVP: 818.880.5437 or admissions@museschool.org

Inspiring and preparing young people to live consciously with themselves, one another, and the planet.

museschool.org | 818.880.5437

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NATIONAL CHARITY LEAGUE By Sabrina Samedi Photography by Curtis Dahl

Debutantes OF 2014

It was truly an unforgettable and decadent night as the San Fernando Valley Chapter of the National Charity League, Inc., hosted its 49th Annual Charity Ball, Hearts of Gold, on November 29th at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel. At this milestone event, the Debutantes of 2014 -12 exceptional young women -- performed the Saint James bow before they were honored and thanked for their devotion to the chapter and to the local philanthropies it serves. The Annual Charity Ball marks the chapterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only fundraiser. Thus, 100 percent of the proceeds from this ball were donated to meeting the financial needs of the chapterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s supported charities.

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SUGAR PLUM By Sabrina Samedi Photography by Debbie Vaccarello

Tea Party

The Pacific Festival Ballet presented the 16th Annual Sugar Plum Tea Party and Luncheon on November 9th at Sherwood Country Club. Siobhain Hill, Alliance for the Arts Director, was the honored guest of this enchanting event that featured a silent auction fundraiser for the annual Nutcracker Ballet. Leaving guests with sugar and spice and everything nice, the tea party also hosted carriage rides. Through the presentation of world-class performances, childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s outreach education programs, and a variety of community-involvement activities, the Pacific Festival Ballet supports the art of dance, sustaining the traditions of classical ballet while creating ground-breaking theater. The Pacific Festival Ballet strives to groom tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stars of the dance world while bringing the brightest talent from across the globe to audiences throughout the Conejo Valley. Presenting three seasons of riveting dance annually, each performance offers dancers the chance to explore diverse facets of the art of dance and provides a canvas for creative expression.

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ALLIANCEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S 2OTH YEAR By Sabrina Samedi Photography by Debbie Vaccarello

Anniversary

Bring out the fine china, the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza celebrated its 20th anniversary on October 25th at The Lakes. The anniversary party raised money for the 2015 Dr. Raymond M. Olson Performance Grants that support resident companies and community performing arts groups by helping to offset theatre rental costs Presented by Union Bank, the night was a huge success as countless community members gathered with laughter and appreciation to support the arts and celebrate this memorable commemoration. Neiman Marcus encouraged guests to embrace the festive ambiance by hosting a cocktail party, while Bite Catering Couture provided delicious cuisine. Keeping the mood upbeat and guests light on their feet, James Hurley, Kelly McRea with Matt Castelein, and The Company Men provided entertainment sponsored by Los Robles Hospital and Medical Center. The Civic Arts Plaza was grateful to give recognition to many well-deserving honorees such Veronica Dunne, Michael J. Arndt, Los Robles Hospital and Medical Center, and Tom Cohen.

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Financial Brief

Inflation

Economic Peak Performance PART ONE

By Mark Wendell

hether we are talking about our local or national monetary behavior, the function of economics is the same: to understand and influence how people interact monetarily as they go about their daily lives. Because the behavior of an economy reflects the behavior of individuals who make up an economy, we can think locally to understand how economic concepts, such as inflation, work on a national level.

to changes in the level of inflation: consumer confidence; goods and services supply and demand imbalances; moves by companies to increase prices; labor supplies; average wages paid; and the Federal Reserve’s attempts to influence interest rates, the supply of money, and the unemployment rate. As one can imagine, there is a feedback loop that never stops, with one component in the chain affecting the next and so on. When unemployment is low and wages are stable, consumers are more confident and more likely to spend money, which has a tendency to drive up prices. We can call this scenario the positive consumer sentiment factor.

There seems to be a stigma associated with the word inflation. During the 1970s, President Gerald Ford called inflation “public enemy number one.” Over the past 20 years, the CPI inflation rate has averaged 3 percent, but recently, it has averaged less than 2 percent. Some inflation is healthy for an economy, but because inflation imposes certain costs on a population, attempting to maintain inflation at a minimal level is a goal of policy makers worldwide. Why do we want inflation at all if it is our enemy? How much is enough or too much? To answer these questions, we need to understand how inflation works.

Although unemployment has been gradually declining, the low levels of inflation in recent years can be attributed to the large number of unemployed people. Employers do not feel a need to increase wages and incentives when unemployment is high, thus there is little wage inflation. This is contributing to steady prices of goods and services because consumers are less inclined to pay higher prices with unemployment high and wages generally not rising.

Inflation is the increase in prices for goods and services. Several factors can contribute

One of the basic causes of changes in the rate of inflation is the economic principle of

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supply and demand. As demand increases, the supply of a good or service decreases, causing prices to increase, whether because of too little production or natural disaster. Sometimes price inflation rises as supplies decrease and demand increases due to the desirability of a product. Corporations may also take advantage of tight supplies to increase their profits. On the surface, it may appear that consumers benefit little from inflation. However, it is necessary in the overall economic system, if for no other reason than psychological: everyone wants to get paid more and it makes us feel better and therefore makes us want to spend more money that feeds the economic cycle. And secondly, the basic principle of supply and demand balance allows a free-market-based capitalistic system to function at a peak performance level. n Copyright © Mark Wendell 2014. All Rights Reserved. MD Wendell Wealth Partners: A preeminent personal wealth enhancement boutique for select clients.

mark@mdwendell.com www.mdwendell.com 805.402.8642

Silverado

CELEBRATES VETERANS

By Sabrina Samedi Photography by Renee Appell

In association with So Cal Vet Support, Silverado Senior Living in Calabasas paid tribute to veterans on November 9th with a color guard and medal-pinning ceremony. Silverado was proud to host this occasion to honor resident veterans whose selflessness and sacrifice helped to keep our country safe and free. Residents of Silverado, along with their families and guests, enjoyed prizes from the day’s events as well as performances by comedienne D.D. Rainbow and a number of military veteran comedians. So Cal Vet Support is a community of volunteers supporting veterans and their families in seeing that the applications of qualified men and women who served our county get approved for their well-deserved benefits. Silverado Calabasas Memory Care Community combines clinical expertise with engaging social programs specifically designed for individuals with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Lewy body and other types of dementia. The community’s bright, lively atmosphere allows residents to remain social while oftentimes enjoying the things that were important to them before their diagnosis.

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Louisville’s QUEST Fundraiser By Sabrina Samedi Photography by Debbie Vaccarello It was surely a night to remember as Louisville High School Parents Guild presented the annual fundraiser event, QUEST, on November 8th at the Four Seasons in Westlake Village. QUEST is an acronym for “Quality Unsurpassed and Education Sustained by Tradition.” Guests not only enjoyed a formal dinner and a night of dancing, but they were given the opportunity to participate in both a silent and live auction, where all the proceeds were directed to the Library Renovation Project. The Library Renovation Project plans include separate areas for both quiet study and collaborative work by students and teachers; a patio for study, reading, and small group meetings; large monitors for faculty and students for interactive learning; built-in sound systems, skylights, and new lighting; and an ADA wheelchair lift. Adding excitement to the festivities, Louisville High School also announced San Fernando Valley resident Ellen Cooper as the winner of the school’s Ferrari Raffle. Ellen is now the proud owner of the Collector’s edition 1983 “Magnum PI” Model Ferrari.

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Polacheck’s Ippolita Trunk Show By Sabrina Samedi The sentiment “best things come in small packages” was all the rage at Polacheck’s Ippolita Trunk Show at The Commons at Calabasas on December 6th. Polacheck’s Jewelers added sparkle to the holiday season and helped guests find the perfect gift for their special someone at this trunk show featuring Ippolita jewelry. Serving Southern California for four generations, Polacheck’s Jewelers offers some of the world’s finest, most elegant, and timeless pieces. Polacheck’s Jewelers also represents many of the world’s leading jewelry designers, such as Ippolita. Over the past decade, Ippolita has become a force in fine jewelry, creating designs that allow a woman to look beautiful every day, no matter the occasion. Ippolita is known for its fresh, fashionforward, and colorful aesthetic that incorporates a diverse group of materials, such as 18K gold, 925 sterling silver, rose gold, turquoise, quartz, mother-of-pearl, and diamonds.

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World Famous Supercar Sunday Californiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Favorite Weekly Car Show

By Dustin Troyan Photography by Greg Grudt

Porsche 918 Porsche Marque Day at Supercar Sunday is quite a sight to see. Porsche enthusiasts from all over Southern California and beyond come out to show off their amazing vehicles and their passion for a brand that defines them. For years, the Porsche Carrera GT was the flagship Porsche that all other Porsches were judged by. The competitor to the Ferrari Enzo at the time, the Porsche Carrera GT, featured in yellow, was as real a racecar as you could get, for the street, that is, and this is something Porsche enthusiasts embraced as a tribute to the driver. Then, rumors hit that Porsche was producing a hybrid supercar, and no one knew what to expect. But when the Porsche 918 arrived at Supercar Sunday and hit the web, everyone went crazy. The Porsche 918 is incredible! The 918 boasts a combined horsepower of 887 -- a combination of its gas-powered, V8 engine and two electric motors -- and a top speed of over 210 mph. Wow! Hats off to Porsche for raising the bar! supercarsunday.com

MOTOR4TOYS By Sabrina Samedi Photography by Scott Martin The tradition carried on as car enthusiasts and community members alike gathered at Anthem Blue Cross in Woodland Hills for the 11th Annual Motor4Toys Charity Car Show and Toy Drive. The car community was more than eager to rev up their engines and help fill stockings with as many toys as possible for less fortunate children. The car show definitely did not disappoint as Ferraris, classic American muscle cars, modern racers, Lamborghinis, Corvettes, Bugattis, and everything in between was featured for everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s viewing delight. Guests were admitted to this spectacular event by giving at least one new, unwrapped toy to be donated during the holiday season. The charity car show was presented by Fiat North America, The Auto Gallery, and Coastline Motorsport, with HRE Performance Wheels, Driven World magazine, and Connected Media Group carrying on the tradition as supporting sponsors. The annual Motor4Toys car show is organized by Dustin Troyan and stands as one of the largest toy donation events in the motoring industry.

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The Los Angeles Auto Show

The New Models Arrive

By Dustin Troyan Photographed by Greg Grudt

suppose being in the mecca of the car world, Los Angeles, we are a bit jaded, but the Los Angeles Auto Show is always fun to visit. Truth be told, I had not been in years as we see many of the new models at Supercar Sunday. But a good friend, Richard Finn, had a couple tickets to VIP Night burning a whole in his pocket and dragged me to the show.

If you are ever lucky enough to get to the L.A. Auto Show on a preview or VIP Night, I suggest you go. The entire show is at your fingertips. There are no lines, no crowds, hors dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;oeuvres, and even prime rib meals and shrimp cocktails. It truly changes the entire visit to the show.

The vehicle that knocked our socks off was the new Corvette Z06. In fact, it jumped out and nearly bit you. It screamed come take a look at me. And I gave it a one word description: WOW! If you are in the market for a new sports car, take a look at this because GM nailed it. Offering world-class performance at a bargain price, this American-made beauty can duel it out with the best that Europe has to offer. The other standout was the Porsche 918. What some consider a hyper-exotic, it is truly breathtaking. A bit rarer than the Corvette Z06 and a bit more expensive, one might say that the Porsche 918 is one of the most technologically advanced vehicles ever made and the embodiment of everything that Porsche stands for. n

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DENIM & DIAMONDS FUNDRAISER By Sabrina Samedi Photography by Renee Appell Autism Care and Treatment Today! (ACT Today!) hosted its ninth Annual Denim and Diamonds for Autism event on October 19 at the Four Seasons Hotel to raise autism awareness and funds for children living with autism. ACT Today!, a national nonprofit organization, planned such a profound fundraiser, with tributes to the 2014 honorees: actress Holly Robinson Peete, former NFL quarterback Rodney Peete, actor Nolan Gould, singer/songwriter Sophie Rose, and community activist Virginia Viola. The ninth annual Denim and Diamonds for Autism fundraiser raised much needed funds for direct and immediate care as well as treatment for children with autism. Vital care includes access to assistive technology, behavioral therapy, medical care, social skills programs, basic safety equipment, and assistance dogs. Since the inauguration of Denim and Diamonds, ACT Today! has given over $1.5 million in treatment to children with autism whose families cannot afford the necessary tools their children need to reach their full potential.

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Celebrity Golf Classic By Sabrina Samedi Photography by Adam Blaser Celebrities and community members alike joined forces for a midday shotgun start on October 23rd at the Calabasas Country Club for the annual Celebrity Golf Classic. The Cancer Support Community Pasadena and weSPARK presented a five-star golf experience. The tournament featured celebrity players such as Christopher Rich, Kevin Nealon, Robert Hays and Peter Gallagher. The tournament showcased prizes along with fantastic giveaways, followed by cocktails, an awards ceremony dinner hosted by Joel Murray, and a posttournament rock and roll concert. Understanding how transformative the diagnosis of cancer can be, weSPARK provides free-of-charge services to enhance the quality of life and care for cancer patients, their families, and friends to reduce the pain and anxiety related to cancer. The Cancer Support Community Pasadena, part of an international nonprofit organization, provides free support to anyone affected by cancer to ensure that everyone impacted is empowered by knowledge, strengthened by action and sustained by community.

BESITOS BOUTIQUE HOLIDAY PARTY By Elena Richards Besitos Boutique celebrated the holidays in style at their fabulous boutique in Old Town Calabasas. Guest enjoyed wine and hors dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;oeuvres and a chance to get personally styled for all of their holiday parties and events by the Besitos owners Eva Lucero, Tricia Lucero and Joy Palmer. Besitos also welcomed Sheryl Shapiro who just joined the Besitos team! Besitos has carved out a niche in the fashion world by dressing woman in age-appropriate fashions while still enabling them to look stylish, feel beautiful and be on top of the latest trends. The new Besitos location provides a warm, friendly, comfortable atmosphere where women can enjoy themselves shopping, socializing and sharing a few laughs. No matter what the occasion, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll always find the perfect outfit, accessories or gifts of fashion forward styles that withstand the test of time!

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Keller Williams 5 Year Anniversary

Rose Goldwater Volunteer Award

By Sabrina Samedi

By Sabrina Samedi Ryan Miller / Capture Imaging for Westfield Topanga

Keep the tradition alive and bring out the wood! Keller Williams Calabasas Estates celebrated its five-year anniversary on October 16th. Harma Hartouni sent out a special thank you to the agency’s agent partners, core vendors, and clients for their support and loyalty in making Keller Williams Calabasas the fastest-growing office: “Together, we service our community.”

Sean McCarthy, nominated by the West Valley Warner Center Chamber of Commerce, received the Rose Goldwater Volunteer of the Year Award on October 23rd in honor of his remarkable community service at the Westfield Topanga Community Center. Los Angeles City Councilmember Bob Blumenfield and Westfield executives lent a helping hand as they gave remarks to celebrate McCarthy’s achievement.

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Calabasas Chamber of Commerce

Volunteerism:

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Tis the season to support a nonprofit

lmost all nonprofits rely on volunteers to help with everything from office work to fundraising to recruiting other volunteers to running special events. In fact, a nonprofit board of directors is made up of all volunteers!

Volunteerism comes in various forms. In fact, many businesses are valuing volunteerism more and more, whether that means choosing one nonprofit to support or several. Companies, regardless of size, provide money, manual labor, volunteer hours, and/or goods and services to local communities. Company volunteerism offers a way for employees to be involved in the community, taking on social concerns, fundraising, and supporting special events -- all while strengthening employee morale. Individuals within the community often donate time, talent, and even money to nonprofits as well and are crucial to the infrastructures of many nonprofit organizations.

Leonis Adobe Winter Celebration By Sabrina Samedi Photography by Derek De La Luz Community members rejoiced in the holiday spirit at Leonis Adobe Museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Winter Celebration on December 7th. Guests were light on their feet as they grooved to live music, and this family-festive occasion also included a visit from Santa himself along with a craft center, rancho activities, and an animal-feeding zone.

Why spend your free time investing in a volunteer job when there is no monetary return? There are several reasons, but the most important is the ROI from the happiness you bring to those you help and to yourself. In a recent study, men and women reported feeling significantly happier immediately after doing something for someone else. Happiness, contentment, and satisfaction are all natural consequences of altruism. Experiences are worth more than possessions, so why not spread cheer and volunteer this holiday season? The Calabasas Chamber of Commerce has several nonprofit members that do such wonderful work and who are always in need of volunteers. Choose a nonprofit this holiday season that speaks to you, make a phone call, and find out what you can do as a volunteer. All nonprofits in the Calabasas Chamber of Commerce are listed on the Chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website at calabasaschamber.com.

Bridget Karl President & CEO 23564 Calabasas Rd., Suite 101 Calabasas, CA 91302 calabasaschamber.com

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Gingerbread Boutique By Sabrina Samedi Photography by Renee Appell The holiday traditions were in full swing as the Westlake Village Juniors kicked off their 33rd Annual Gingerbread Boutique on November 6th at St. Maximilian Kolbe Church. All proceeds from the event were donated to Cancer Support Community, Many Mansions, Conejo Free Clinic, Temple Adat, and Lutheran Social Services.

6th Annual Taste of Conejo By Sabrina Samedi Photography by Adam Blaser Cheers to great times and delicious food! The Four Seasons Hotel in Westlake Village hosted the sixth annual Taste of Conejo on October 9th. The occasion was presented by the Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce. Food and wine enthusiasts enjoyed an all-inclusive event of exceptional food, delectable desserts, and wine, beer and spirit tastings from local restaurants and breweries such as Paul Martin’s American Grill, Harvest Kitchen and Bar, Lemonade, Sweet Arleen’s, Aldabella Winery and Figueroa Mountain Brewery Company. Setting the ambiance for the evening, pianist Mark Anthony, award-winning harpists Lori and Bart Andrews, gifted saxophonist Hayan Charlston, and recording artist Bill Cantos greeted guests and offered live entertainment all night in the Grand Ballroom. Combing entertainment with generosity, local business donated prizes for guests to bid on during the silent auction with 50 percent of the proceeds benefitting Community Conscience and Westminster Free Clinic: the Greater Conejo Valley Community Foundation’s 2014 Nonprofit Organizations of the Year.

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calendar of events Every Saturday, 8 am-1 pm Calabasas Farmers Market Rain or shine, residents and visitors flock to Old Town Calabasas where a weekly farmers market replaces the old general store. Local vendors bring their fresh and exotic fruits, vegetables, flowers, baked goods and prepared foods to go. ci.calabasas.ca.us/ farmersmarket.html.

january Monday, January 5th, 6:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Health Club Membership at Agoura Hills/Calabasas Community Center Visit the Agoura Hills/Calabasas Community Center and get in shape. The center has a beautiful fitness center, a gymnasium, and a 35-foot rock wall and offers over 50 amazing classes, including stretch, yoga, cycling, Zumba, muscle conditioning, R.I.P.P.E.D., Pilates, bootcamp, step, ballet, and more. Sign up for a health club membership (no sign-up or registration fees) or drop in for the day and start your New Year healthy! For more information visit ahccc.org. Saturday, January 10th, 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Grand Opening of the new Agoura Hills Recreation Center The City of Agoura Hills is proud to announce the opening of the new Agoura Hills Recreation Center. Its new home will be located at 29900 Ladyface Court in Agoura Hills. Activities at the grand opening will include tours, class demos, and arts and crafts. There will also be a bounce house and glitter tattoos for the kids. For more information, please call 818.597.7361 or visit agourahillsrec.org. Sunday, January 11 th, 11:00a.m. – 3:00p.m. Hyatt Bridal Premiere The Bridal Premiere has everything you need to know about how to plan the perfect wedding. Come check out the Bridal Premiere and enter to win a $500 gift certificate toward services from any bridal exhibitor. Runner up prizes include hotel, restaurant and bridal store gift certificates. The event will take place at the Hyatt Westlake: 880 S. Westlake Blvd., Westlake Village. Tickets are $10 at the door and $8 when purchased online. Visit Facebook.com/bridalpremiere for more information. Sunday, January 18th, 4:30 p.m. The 4th Annual Ventura County Wine Trail Food & Wine Challenge 2015 You are invited to Ventura County’s most mouthwatering face-off! Local chefs and wine makers form teams and create their best food and wine pairings. These masterful flavor combinations will be judged by both attendees and a blind panel of experts, determining who created the “Best Food & Wine Pairing.” The evening will also feature a silent auction with all proceeds being donated to Hope’s Haven Children’s Charity. The event will take place at Hyatt Westlake Plaza in Thousand Oaks. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit venturacountywinetrail.com or contact Lauren Belshe at 805. 983.1560. Wednesday, January 21st, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. MUSE Talks Presents Dr. Jay Gordon, MD FAAP In addition to treating patents, Dr. Gordon participates in the training of medical students and residents, lectures all over the world, writes books, and writes a monthly column for “Fit Pregnancy” magazine. He has contributed to New York Parent, Parenting magazine and has been quoted in the L.A. Times, New York Times, and The London Times. Free to the public at MUSE School, 1666 Las Virgenes Canyon Rd. in Calabasas. To attend and reserve childcare, RSVP to mhudak@museschool.org. Thursday, January 22nd, 7:00 p.m. Admissions Information Night For more information or to RSVP call 818.880.5437 or email admissions@museschool.org. • MUSE Prime: Early Childhood – 4th Grade 1666 Las Virgenes Canyon Road, Calabasas, CA 91302 • MUSE Middle/High: 5th grade – 12th grade 4345 N. Las Virgenes Road. Calabasas, CA 91302

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HORIZON’S CALABASAS GRAND OPENING By Elena Richards Horizons at Calabasas, Calabasas’ premier active-adult apartment community, celebrated its grand opening on November 15th. Visitors were excited to discover this resort-style, controlled-access community, which is now leasing to people aged 55+. Horizons at Calabasas offers state-of-the-art apartments with spacious floor plans designed for easy living, beautiful courtyard views, and designated parking. There are multiple floor plans up to 1,470 square feet with chef’s kitchens. The community offers an outdoor pool, spa, BBQ area, gym, and media room. The guarded community is also fully monitored, with underground parking and storage areas. Come see how affordable and luxurious retirement can be with country club amenities and concierge services, including housekeeping. The community is also “pet friendly,” with dog-walking services provided. Visit the leasing center at 26705 Malibu Hills Road, Calabasas for a tour or call 855.472.7318 for more information. Open seven days a week from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. horizonsatcalabasas.com.

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february February 3rd – February 4th Shen Yun 2015 World Tour Through the universal language of music and dance, Shen Yun weaves a wondrous tapestry of heavenly realms, ancient legends and modern heroic tales, taking you on a journey through 5,000 years of Chinese culture. Its stunning beauty, purity, and tremendous energy leave audiences greatly uplifted and deeply inspired. A Shen Yun performance features 100 world-class performers, over 400 sets of exquisite hand-made costumes, a unique orchestra blending East and West, and dazzling animated backdrops, all creating a spectacular performance beyond your imagination. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit civicartsplaza.com. Thursday, February 5th, 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Your Heart. Our Team. West Hills Hospital Seminar Join West Hills for a free, healthy learning experience that fits your demanding life. West Hills Hospital is well equipped to deal with heart emergencies through their state-of-the-art emergency department with its nationally accredited Chest Pain Center. It also has twin cath labs equipped to handle a full array of diagnostic and interventional heart services along with highly skilled experts in heart rhythm management, diagnostics, and intervention. They hope that you won’t need them, but in the event that you do, just know that their heart team is your heart team. RSVP with Consult-A-Nurse at 818.676.4321 or email Seminars@HCAHealthcare.com. February 6th, February 27th, and March 20th The Calabasas Savvy Senior Program Speaker Series Some time after the creation of the Savvy Senior program and under its leadership, the idea came about to have a Speaker Series. Each speaking engagement is followed by coffee, desserts, and conversation with the guest speaker. Tickets can be purchased at De Anza Park or Calabasas City Hall. • Friday, February 6th, 7:00 p.m. Dr. Elliot Engel, The Inimitable Winston Churchill • Friday, February 27th, 7:00 p.m. Don Burris (from the Law firm of Burris, Schoenberg & Walden, LLP), The Unfinished Business of the 20th Century • Friday, March 20th, 6:30 p.m. Sassy Reuven, Operation Thunderbolt -- Rescue at Entebbe, A Personal Experience Saturday, February 7th, 7:00 p.m. The Calabasas Cheer Showcase Come support the Calabasas High School cheerleaders as they perform fun and exciting routines at the beautiful Performing Arts Education Center at CHS. Enjoy live performances featuring the Calabasas Cheer Team, Cheer Champions, and many others. For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit calabasascheer.com.

march Sunday, March 1st, 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Let’s Bake a Difference! This event is sponsored by the Cancer Support Community, with all money raised going to help support the local cancer community. Let’s Bake a Difference! (formerly Cupcakes for Cancer) includes a baking competition and cupcake tasting that aims to raise money for programs and services offered to local children, adults, and their families who are affected by cancer. The event is at the Westlake Village Inn, 31943 Agoura Road. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit letsbakeadifference.org. Friday, March 6th, 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. A Wig and Stache Party The Westlake Village Junior Women’s Club will be hosting A Wig and Stache Party -- with cocktails, food, dancing, and silent auction -at the Hyatt in Westlake. The fundraiser will benefit Many Mansions Homework Tutoring Program, the Conejo Free Clinic Mammogram Fund, and the Cancer Support Center Kids Circle Program. For more information or to purchase tickets, go to westlakejuniors.org. Send in any calendar submissions three months in advance to: stylepublishing@gmail.com

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Stand Up for Kids Gala By Sabrina Samedi The Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley held their 12th Annual ‘Stand Up for Kids’ Gala Dinner and Auction on October 18th at the Four Seasons Hotel in Westlake Village. The fundraising event included silent and live auctions, gourmet dining, entertainment, and dancing. Guests of this joyous event were given the opportunity to contribute to scholarship funds during the ‘Stand Up for Kids’ portion of the gala. Scholarship funds are what make it possible for all children in the region to participate in before-school, after-school, weekend, and summer programs, assuring that no child is ever turned away due to the inability to pay. Jeff Tanenbaum, professional auctioneer and longtime board member, led the auction. Hall of Fame speaker Jim Cathcart served as the master of ceremonies for this year’s gala, which celebrated the life of Dr. Richard Grossman who served as an active supporter of the Boys and Girls Clubs. The Cal Johnston Service award was presented to Marilyn Bencar for her admirable service.

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Blush’s Five-Year Anniversary By Sabrina Samedi Photography by Marvin Steindler Congratulatory toasts were all the theme on November 6th at Blush Boutique in Calabasas as the boutique celebrated its five-year anniversary. Community members, fashionistas and Blush enthusiasts came together and enjoyed appetizers by French chef Pierre as they sipped on signature cocktails and danced to live music by DJ Cassandra. Guests of this joyous occasion also entered a raffle to win great prizes and gifts as they shopped through various featured boutique items from vendors such as Kitchen Curry, Khrome Flash Tattoo’s, Abbecote wraps, Linx, and more. Not only does Blush Boutique carry the latest trends in women clothing and accessories, but the boutique caters to women who love to wear exceptional statement pieces at affordable prices. Blush rejoices in having its customers express as well as accentuate their sense of self and style with the boutique’s seasonal must-haves. .

CSC Holiday Homes Tour By Sabrina Samedi Photography by Debbie Vaccarello The Cancer Support Community of the Valley, Ventura, and Santa Barbara hosted the spectacular 23rd Annual Holiday Homes Tour on December 6th and 7th. The tour featured four magnificently decked-out homes in Lake Sherwood, North Ranch, and Agoura Hills. The Holiday Homes Tour kicked off with a VIP tour on December 5th, where guests enjoyed a luxury coach ride to all four homes. Guests also took in the ambiance of the festive occasion with live entertainment as they snacked on delicious food and wine. The event culminated with a private champagne reception at the beautiful Triunfo Creek Vineyards. Adding to the occasion was the fantastic Annual Holiday Boutique at The Ridge in Agoura Hills. The boutique featured dozens of local craftsmen and unique gifts perfect for loved ones. Proceeds from Holiday Homes Tour and the Holiday Boutique were donated to the Cancer Support Community.

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Holiday Shopping Spree By Sabrina Samedi Echoing the theme of generosity this holiday season, Congregation Or Ami sponsored the Gift At-Risk Youth a Holiday Shopping Spree event on December 7th at Kohl’s in West Hills. The shopping spree takes underprivileged kids from New Directions for Youth on a shopping spree at Kohl’s department store, allowing them to pick out new clothes. Congregation Or Ami provides the $100 shopping spree to the kids along with a delicious lunch donated by Stonefire Grill. New Directions for Youth (NDY) is a nonprofit, youth-development organization that provides direct services and programs to at-risk youth and families throughout the San Fernando Valley and in the greater Los Angeles area. Since the organization’s founding in 1976, NDY has provided services – free of charge – to more than 90,000 individuals. Individual adults and families who volunteered at this wonderful causedriven event, chaperoned the at-risk youth to pick out clothes and even a few personal gifts for family members to add a greater sense of joy for these children during the holidays.

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SANTA COMES TO TOWN By Sabrina Samedi Photography by Renee Appell The Westlake Village Junior Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club hosted the 35th Annual Santa Comes to Westlake/Agoura and Beyond event on December 6th. The joyous occasion included an opportunity for volunteers to sort collected food items and prepare bags of groceries to then deliver to local families in need.

SIERRA CANYON GRANDPARENTS DAY By Sabrina Samedi There were some new kids on campus as early kindergarten through sixth-grade students at Sierra Canyon School in Chatsworth joyfully welcomed over 350 grandparents and grand friends to join them in class as part of the school’s annual Grandparents Visiting Day event. The special occasion exemplifies Sierra Canyon’s familyorientated approach to learning. The festive day began with a welcome breakfast for guests who travelled from Calabasas, Hidden Hills and Agoura Hills. During the meal, Jim Skrumbis, Sierra Canyon’s Head of School discussed Sierra Canyon’s long-standing commitment to educational excellence. The introductions and welcome continued as guests also heard from Sierra Canyon founders, Mick Horwitz and Howard Wang, who as fellow grandparents shared their delight in seeing the school’s family atmosphere become inter-generational. “Grandparents Visiting Day is one of my favorite days at Sierra Canyon because it provides that connection between generations which children need. To observe the interaction and bond between ‘the Grands’ and the students is so heartwarming,” expressed Wang.

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Home for the Holidays By Sabrina Samedi Home Tour photography by Forrest Frields Boutique photography by Renee Appell Meadowlark Service League proudly presented the 36th Annual Holiday Home Tour fundraiser on December 14th. Embracing the holiday spirit, this stunning tour featured a selection of local Pleasant Valley homes decorated for guests’ viewing pleasure. Guests were able to experience inspirational décor celebrating a variety of holiday traditions. The tour also invited guests to tackle their holiday shopping lists at the Red Barn Holiday at the historic Camarillo Ranch. The boutique featured refreshments and homemade goodies as well. Guests were welcome to entice their taste buds with a sumptuous brunch. The Meadowlark Service League is a group of hard-working local women who volunteer substantial amounts of time and effort focusing on fundraising for the community’s need. Meadowlark’s community contributions encompass aid to the elderly, youth, the arts, the homeless, the disable, the veterans, hospice, health and community services and education.

Savvy Seniors Luncheon

SAGEBRUSH THANKSGIVING

By Sabrina Samedi Photography by Renne Appell

By Elena Richards Photography by Renne Appell

Calabasas Savvy Seniors enjoyed a Winter Luncheon on December 10th at the Sagebrush Cantina. Adding an essence of nostalgia and show tunes to the mood of the occasion, entertainer Bonnie Bowden performed her “Great American Songbook” variety show -- a selection of tunes well known to Baby Boomers.

The Rotary Club of Calabasas and The Sagebrush Cantina sponsored their 26th Annual Thanksgiving event for seniors on Thanksgiving Day. The event hosted more than 600 guests from Calabasas and neighboring areas. Hundreds of volunteers donated their time on Thanksgiving Day to make this holiday special for the senior guests.

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Wine & Dine TAPROOM / RESTAURANT / BREWERY

INTERNATIONAL

FIGUEROA MOUNTAIN BREWING COMPANY 30770 Russell Ranch Road, Suites E-F, Westlake Village 805.379.9410 | figmtnbrew.com

RIVIERA RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 23683 Calabasas Rd., Calabasas 818.224.2163 | rivieracalabasas.com

Core beers on tap & ready “to go” in bottles, rotating specialty & cask beers. Artisanal menu featuring fresh gastropub fare. Live music! Mug Club! Open daily 11am-11pm.

Savory flavors of Europe, Asia, South America – with a great bar menu and happy hour seven days a week. Private banquet rooms available. Live music on Friday and Saturday nights.

STEAKHOUSE

French Vietnamese

MORTON’S THE STEAKHOUSE 6250 Canoga Ave., Woodland Hills 818.703.7272 | mortons.com/woodlandhills

9021PHO 2200 E Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks 805.494.6633 | 9021pho.com

Morton’s The Steakhouse Woodland Hills is the perfect destination for dinner with an extensive wine collection, USDA prime-aged beef, succulent seafood, and decadent desserts.

Chef Kimmy Tang inspires a Vietnamese-centric menu with French and California twists along with healthy choices and selected varieties of wines. Much more than PHO!

Restaurant / Coffee Shop & Roastery / Bike Shop

STEAKHOUSE

PEDALERS FORK 23504 Calabasas Road, Calabasas 818.225.8231 | pedalersfork.com

MASTRO’S & MASTRO’S MALIBU 2087 E Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks | 805.418.1811 18412 PCH, Malibu | 310.454.4357 | mastrosrestaurants.com

Farm direct! Highest quality fresh and local produce, meats and seafood. 5 grain salads, flatbreads, grilled fish, steaks and more. Vegan & gluten free options. Sun-Thurs 8am-10pm. Fri-Sat 8am-11pm.

Mastro’s Steakhouse offers a menu of the finest prime steaks and premium fresh seafood, served in a sophisticated, classic atmosphere. The result is a truly unparalleled dining experience.

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